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.
A Common Faith and Common Salvation
The Scriptures speak of the “common” faith and the “common” salvation. Does this term allow for the divergent views and practices in today’s world of “Christendom”? Does it permit various modes of “salvation”?
Divorce and Remarriage: White, Black, or Gray?
This article examines the complex and often ambiguous situations surrounding divorce and remarriage from a Christian perspective, drawing on biblical teachings and providing examples of various cases.
Was Mohammed the Prophet of Whom Moses Spoke?
A young convert to Islam asserts that Mohammed was the “prophet” of whom Moses spoke in Deuteronomy 18:15ff. What are the facts regarding this matter?
Identifying the Church of the New Testament
Is it possible to rediscover the church of the New Testament in today’s world? Many sincere people have never considered this possibility. But is it possible?
James 1:13 – God Cannot Be Tempted
Does God have freedom of choice? If so, could He choose to do evil?
What Do the Two Beasts of Revelation 13 Represent?
Let’s address these questions one at a time.

What Is the First Beast Coming Up from the Sea in Revelation 13?As I noted in my book, Revelation: Christ’s Final Message of Hope, the first beast in R...

Was Jesus the “Suffering Servant” of Isaiah 53?
Was Jesus of Nazareth the “suffering servant” of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke in Chapter 53 of his book? The modern Jews says, “No.” Rather, it frequently is argued that the Jewish people in general are in view. What are the facts of this matter?
The Blood of Christ Across the Centuries
The Lamb’s blood flows from the book of Genesis all the way through the book of Revelation, and there are valuable lessons all along the way.
1 Timothy 1:20 – Delivered unto Satan
What does Paul mean when he stated that he had delivered Hymenaeus and Alexander unto Satan? What great sin warranted this action?
Baby Dedication Ceremonies: Expediency or Innovation?
The practice of having “baby dedication” services is becoming increasingly popular within some churches of Christ? Is this ritual a mere expedient, or does it reflect an unwarranted innovation? This article addresses this growing controversy.
Flood
The Flood, recorded in Genesis 6-8, was the most widespread disaster ever to affect this planet. Waters from the atmosphere above and from chasms beneath the earth inundated the entire globe (Gen. ...
The Divine Benefits Package — A Study of Psalm 103
Human beings generally are concerned about the benefits package associated with their employment. God’s “benefits package” is marvelous beyond description, as Psalm 103 reveals. This study considers the marvelous benefits bestowed upon the children of God.
Do the Psalms Authorize Instrumental Music in Worship?
May one contend that while the “law” was abolished by the death of Christ, nonetheless, the Psalms remain; and the Psalms provide authority for worshipping God with instruments of music?
Is the Virgin Birth of Jesus Grounded in Paganism?
Is the story of Christ’s “virgin birth” really a rehash from ancient paganism?
Jesus Christ, the God-Man
In the phenonemon known as the “incarnation,” God (the Logos – John 1:1, known in the New Testament as “Christ”) became man. When he ascended back to the Father, did Jesus lay aside his “human” nature? This question deserves our careful attention.
Advice to Aspiring Writers
Some friendly advice to aspiring Christian writers from a man of experience.
1 Thessalonians 1:9 – Conversion – A Turning Process
What does it mean to be “converted”?
Communion
“Communion” is a term applied to the Lord’s Supper because of its usage in 1 Corinthians 10:16. This act of worship emphasizes the fellowship (koinonia — sharing, participation) we enjoy with Chris...
Lord
The Greek expression for “lord” is kurios. One must look at the context to observe the sense conveyed in a particular setting. “Lord” may be used as a mere title of respect, or it can suggest one w...