Articles

The Holy Scriptures: Verbally Inspired

The Scriptures are either inspired by God or they are not.

Does the Case of Cornelius Prove the "Sinner's Prayer" Doctrine?

Does God grant pardon to the "alien sinner" by means of prayer? Some suggest that the case of Cornelius (Acts 10) supplies an affirmative answer. This week's question explores this issue.

The Value of the Old Testament for Today

Christians recognize that the New Testament Scriptures represent the body of sacred literature to which men are amenable today. But does that mean that we disregard the value of the Old Testament documents? Indeed not. These holy writings contribute to our spiritual well-being in a variety of ways. This week's Penpoints explores some of these.

Is the Abolition of the Ten Commandments Ridiculous?

Sabbatarians contend that all of the Ten Commandments are binding today, including the requirement to "keep the Sabbath day holy." They allege that if one argues that the Ten Commandments were abolished when Christ died, this would license all sorts of evil today. Is this argument sound? Wayne Jackson addresses this in this Q&A segment.

Pass Over "The Passover Plot"

For some twenty centuries critics of the Bible have sought to discredit the scriptural narrative regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. These efforts have all been characterized by a similarly frustrated and futile line of baseless argument. One such endeavor in recent decades was Hugh J. Schonfield's infamous, The Passover Plot. In this weeks Penpoints, Jason Jackson reminds us of this anemic enterprise.

The Covering of Sin

There are many ways in which mankind has attempted to deal with his sinfulness. Yet the only effective remedy is redemption through and obedience to Christ .

Do I Need to Be Re-baptized?

The article explores the concept of re-baptism, discussing its validity from a scriptural perspective, and the circumstances in which it might be considered necessary, such as a lack of understanding or faith at the time of the original baptism.

Common Sense Courtesy

The Christian lives in a world where he interacts with other people on a daily basis. What sort of impression are we leaving upon others? The exercise of "common sense" principles of courtesy can have a wonderful effect upon your fellows. We reflect upon some of these in this week's Penpoints article.

Paul's Discourse to the Elders at Ephesus

As Paul concludes his third missionary journey, he pauses at Miletus to meet with the elders of the church in Ephesus. His words are filled with admonition and exhortation, and they contain many wonderful truths needed by today's church. This month's Feature deals with the apostle's address.

Barking at an Empty Log: Atheism & Millennialism

Do the absence of certain "millennial events" disprove the existence of God and the inspiration of the Bible. Not in the least. They do, however, disprove popular millennial theories.

Does the Bible Encourage Hatred?

Sometimes the Bible condemns hate. Sometimes it seems to encourage it.

Agape -- A Christian Husband's Obligation

In this article, Jason Jackson considers the divine imperative, "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it" (Eph. 5:25). A husband, living like God wants him to live, will learn to love his wife according to Christ's example, giving himself selflessly for her spiritual needs. That is agape -- a Christian husband's eternally rewarding obligation.

Was Jesus Created First?

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul refers to Christ as "the firstborn of all creation." Does this phrase suggest that Jesus was a "created" being? The "Jehovah's Witnesses" so allege, but what is the truth of the matter? Study this intriguing question with us.

A Tribute to a Nameless Widow

Jesus once observed a poor widow contributing into the treasury of the Jewish temple. This incident is twice recorded in the Gospel records. Of what significance is this narrative? Study this fascinating account in this week's Penpoints.

Should Women Function as Translators in the Assembly?

A controversial question is whether women should be used as translators in the public worship assembly. Some, who would object to the modern practice of women leading public worship, have no problem in using a female translator. Others object to the practice. Carefully study this question with an open mind. Let God's word be our guide during this study.

The Meanings of "Righteous"

This article explores the use of the word "righteous" in Scripture.

A Philosophy for Christian Living

The damaging effects of sin and the rigors of the Christian life can seem overwhelming. But in Philippians 3:13-14, the inspired apostle Paul sets forth an uplifting approach to life.

Why Did Jesus "Curse" the Fig Tree?

The New Testament records an episode where Jesus "cursed" a fig tree. Many people are disturbed with reference to this incident. What is the meaning behind this strange circumstance?

In What Sense Has Christ Abolished Death?

Paul informed Timothy that Jesus Christ "abolished death" (2 Tim. 1:10). Yet, elsewhere the apostle indicates that death will not be abolished until the return of the Lord (see 1 Cor. 15:24-26). How is the Bible student to reconcile this seeming conflict?

Resurrection: Literal or Merely Symbolic?

When the New Testament speaks of the resurrection, is it speaking of a literal resurrection of the body or merely a "symbolic" resurrection?