The sensational news story regarding the return of the kidnapped Salt Lake City teen has caused public attention to be focused upon certain aspects of Mormon doctrine. This week’s Penpoints article highlights a couple of these issues.

Was Jesus Christ “immersed” in the Jordan River, or did John merely pour water upon the Lord’s head? Some scholars have attempted to argue that the case for Jesus’ “immersion” cannot be proved. But what does the evidence actually reveal?

This article by Wayne Jackson provides a detailed analysis of the Second Epistle of Peter in the New Testament. It discusses its authorship, themes, and relevance to the Christian faith. The article also explores the controversies surrounding its authenticity and the teachings it presents.

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.

Our Jewish friends offer numerous objections to the identification of Jesus of Nazareth as the promised “Messiah” of Old Testament prophecy. In this week’s Q&A, we deal with one of these.

Will the turn of the century mark the beginning of Christ’s reign on Earth?

Steve Lloyd is a respected gospel minister who edits an electronic journal, A Closer Look At Things Pertaining to the Faith. In a recent issue he interviewed Wayne Jackson regarding some of the needs in the church today. This is the text of that dialogue.

It is time for a return to an era of fidelity that is seasoned with common sense and brotherly concern.

Was Paul the founder of Christianity, as some atheists allege?

Is “necessary inference” a valid method of arriving at biblical truth?

The apostle Paul taught Timothy how to conduct himself as a young gospel preacher—advice sorely needed today and in every generation.

Is “faith” a gift of God that is bestowed independent of man’s freedom of choice? In a recent article we argued that such is not the case. In view of our dispute of the Calvinistic position, a courteous critic asks for an explanation of Hebrews 12:2, and the divine affirmation that Jesus is the “Author” of “our faith.”

Does the church need more preaching on baptism? How does one determine balance in gospel preaching? Jason Jackson addresses this issue in this week’s Penpoints.

An obsession is a persistent, compulsive preoccupation with something. It could be a person, an idea, or desire. The New Testament condemns addictive, obsessive behavior as a spiritual abnormality.

Does the New Testament indicate that a time will come when miraculous gifts will be replaced by something better? What could be “more complete” or “unified” than the many differing gifts of the Spirit received by the first Christians?

Why does the Catholic Church place such great emphasis upon Mary, the mother of Christ? Is this proper?

The divinely prescribed method of church discipline is effective.

What is the meaning of that ambiguous expression “the regeneration” that Christ mentioned in Matthew 19:28? Is it a reference to a thousand-year, literal reign of Christ upon the earth? Or does it describe the present Christian regime? Study this passage with us.

It is a noble and worthy challenge to love with the love that Jesus has for all mankind.