In dealing with a contentious element in the Corinthian church, and in anticipation of a visit to this congregation, Paul admonished: “Examine yourselves.” Those who are conscientious regarding their own souls will appropriate this principle to their personal beliefs and practices.

The Bible refers to God as a “Father” in several different senses. Many sincere people are confused about this. One may believe that he is a “child of God”; and he is in one sense, but may not be in another—the most important. It is crucial that we understand this issue.

In the book of Revelation there are several references to the seven spirits. To what, or whom, does this expression refer?

Many sincere people labor under the illusion that “works” play no role whatever in Heaven’s plan of redemption? Is this a correct view? Actually, it is not. Study this theme with us in this week’s Penpoints article.

Both the Bible and ancient documents refer to demons. But was demonic possession an historical reality or merely a superstition from unenlightened days?

The Roman emperor, known as Julian “the Apostate,” represents but another “glitch” on the panoramic screen of history in the futile efforts to discredit Christianity.

When “Sick at Heart” wrote to “Dear Abby” concerning her loveless marriage, Abby directed her to seek a “spiritual advisor.” One such advisor wrote in with his perspective. Was it spiritual? For advice to be spiritual and beneficial, it must be scriptural. Jason Jackson challenges “Reverend” Norman L. Conaway’s claim to be providing spiritual advice.

As I was studying recently through the gospel of Mark, I was reintroduced to this wonderful individual — the Syrophoenician woman. I know that we can learn from this episode in the life of Jesus. Consider with me why our Lord described this Gentile lady as a woman of great faith.

A kindly friend comes calling with a tract on “How To Have a Home In Heaven.” Unquestionably they are sincere. But is sincerity a valid substitute for truth? Jason Jackson addresses this issue.

We must try to master the art of forgiving—for others’ sake, and for our own.

The so-called Da Vinci Code has been the topic of animated conversation for some time. What are the facts about this mysterious “code”?

A new controversy: In recent years, it has become somewhat popular with some to dispute the meaning of the term ekklesia. Does the etymology of this Greek word in the New Testament have any relevance today? What does the word ekklesia mean?

The term “sanctification” is used rather loosely in the community of “Christendom.” What does the Bible really teach about this important theme?

The writer of Hebrews speaks of those who are beyond the possibility of repentance (Heb. 6:6). Does this mean that if a Christian falls away from the faith, he can never return? Is it even possible for the child of God to apostatize —so as to be lost? This week’s Q&A segment addresses this issue.

This editorial discusses the comments of the Jewish scholar, Alfred Edersheim, on the moral character of first-century Roman society.

The Roman Catholic Church teaches the dogma of the “primacy of Peter.” Does the Gospel of Mark hold a key piece of evidence pertaining to this controversy?

The “Jehovah’s Witness” view of the “battle of Armageddon” is but one example of the ineptness of this group to analyze biblical prophecy.

Was the siege at Jerusalem in A.D. 70 the worst in world history?

This editorial discusses the recent Vatican affirmation regarding the “primacy of Peter.”

The book of Ruth is one of the beauty spots of the Old Testament. It is a delightfully “romantic” narrative. Aside from that, it contains some very wonderful truths that pertain to God’s great plan of redemption.