Last Days
Certain religionists, especially those who subscribe to the dogma of DISPENSATIONALISM (see), maintain that the “signs” of Matthew 24:1-34 indicate that the return of Christ is very near; they cons...
Baptism: Essentials and Nonessentials
Baptism is a very important rite in the divine scheme of salvation. But it is imperative that one be able to distinguish between the “essential” and “nonessential” items associated with the command. Study this matter with us in this week’s Penpoints.
What About Salvation in ‘Hard Cases’?
A recent news item highlighted a case where an inmate was refused the privilege of being immersed for the remission of his sins. A chorus of sectarian voices argued that “hard cases” like this negate the belief that baptism is a necessary condition for salvation. Is this quibble valid?
2 Peter 3:13 — New Heavens and New Earth
What is the meaning of the expression “new heavens and a new earth” as found in 2 Peter 3:13?
Why Would a Loving God Send Us to Hell?
Is the doctrine of eternal punishment in hell consistent with the idea of a good and loving God?
Did Jesus Promise to Send the Comforter to Me?
Do Christians today receive the Comforter as promised by Christ in the gospel of John?
Law
Law is a mandate that is designed to regulate procedure; it proceeds from a superior, who possesses authority to rule, to a subordinate. Law is viewed from several angles in the Scriptures. (a) The...
Truth
The term “truth” carries several connotations in the Bible. (a) Truth can convey the idea of loyalty. Those who abide in Jesus’ teaching are “truly” his disciples (Jn. 8:31). (b) True may denote th...
National Security — The Real Solution
How can we secure the future of our nation? What is the solution to homeland security?
The Resurrection of the Wicked
The Bible teaches that both the righteous and the wicked will be resurrected from the dead. Such being the case, what will be the difference in the composition of these respective bodies?
The Theological Implications of the Trial of Jesus – Part 1
Did Jesus receive a fair trial? Part 1 of this study examines the nature of the Lord’s path through the legal system of the time.
Acts 11:21,24 – “A Great Number that Believed Turned unto the Lord”
A subtle, but important, point from the Greek text helps us to distinguish several factors in the plan of salvation
Is America Too Big to Fail?
While politicians are promising hope and change, we would be wise to consider where success and failure actually come from.
The Righteous Shall Live by Faith
The declaration, “The righteous shall live by faith,” is found several times in the Bible. What is the significance of the expression? This essay explores this issue.
The Power of Speech for Good or Evil
Speech is a very special gift from our Creator. It is a fresh challenge each day to channel our words for good.
What Is the Meaning of “Not under Bondage” (1 Cor. 7:15)?
In 1 Corinthians 7:15 Paul affirms that if an unbelieving mate abandons his Christian companion the Christian is “not under bondage.” Some allege that this provides an additional cause for divorce other than fornication (Matthew 5:32; 19:9). But is there real evidence for this position?
Is Suicide the Answer?
Suicide has reached almost an epidemic stage in this country. Many view it as an easy “exit” from this life of hardship and heartache. But is it?
Some Contrasts Between the Nature of the Mosaic System and Christianity
The Mosaic system was preparatory to the coming of the Christian system. While the two systems were complimentary, there are significant differences.
The Value of Old Testament Study
The Old Testament is worthy of our time and study. Although it held a distinct place in redemptive history, which it no longer holds, it still has timeless truths to be learned and applied.
What Are the New Heavens and New Earth?
There are two views concerning the meaning of the phrase, “new heavens and new earth.” Since they represent opposing viewpoints, one of them must be false.

The phrase indicates that heaven could b...