Resolving Church Conflicts
The church is a collection of all sorts of people from varying backgrounds and with different personalities. It is inevitable that such an aggregate of folks will experience conflicts. But the Scriptures can help us deal with these difficult situations. In this week’s Penpoints, Jason Jackson discusses this theme.
What Does It Mean To Be a Born Again Christian?
This article explores the biblical concept of being a “born again” Christian, discussing the spiritual rebirth through the Holy Spirit, the role of baptism, and entrance into the kingdom of God.
The Syrophoenician Woman: A Woman of Great Faith
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.
Anoint
In the Old Testament, anointing with oil was used ceremonially to set apart special roles, especially those of prophets (1 Kgs. 19:16), priests (Ex. 28:41), and kings (1 Sam. 9:16).

The most comm...

Examining the Biblical Basis for the Papacy: Was Peter the First Pope?
This article critically analyzes the role and authority of the Pope in the Roman Catholic Church, questioning the biblical support for Peter’s primacy and the doctrine that the church was founded upon him.
Babylon: A Test Case in Prophecy—Part 1
Part one of a two-part series examining the ancient city of Babylon and its role in Bible prophecy
The Mystery of God
In the Book of Colossians, Paul develops the theme of Jesus Christ’s role in the great “mystery” of God. In this article, Jason Jackson explores this exciting theme.
God and the Nation of Israel
What role does the nation of Israel play—past and present—in the plan of God? Does their illustrious past have any relevance today or in the future?
Mediator
A “mediator” is a “go-between” (from mesos, “middle” and eimi “to go”). Ideally, the role of a mediator is to work for the reconciliation of parties that have become estranged. (a) Moses was a medi...
Can I Get Married Without a Marriage License?
This article explores the biblical perspective on marriage, the role of civil authority, and the importance of obtaining a legal marriage license. It emphasizes the significance of legal recognition for a couple’s commitment, the responsibilities and rights it entails, and the need to respect governing authorities.
What Is the Answer to the “Green Tree” Riddle?
On his way to Golgotha, Christ addressed a group of Jerusalem’s weeping women, and asked: “For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?” What is the meaning of this mysterious “green tree” saying?
The First Woman Apostle — So-called
A recent book alleges that Junia, a woman, served in the first-century church as an “apostle” — along with Peter, Paul, and the others. But what are the facts in this matter?
Testing the Spirits
A preacher or teacher must accept the heavy responsibility the Scriptures lay upon that role. His audience also has a responsibility—to test his message, whether or not it is from God.
Apostle
This word is related to a Greek verb, apostello, meaning “to send away, to send forth.” It is used in several senses in the New Testament. 
• Christ was God’s “apostle,” sent from heaven to reveal ...
When Love Grows Cold: A Profile of the Ephesian Church
This profile of the Ephesian church serves as an example for our learning.
Did the Ancient Gentiles Have the Hope of Salvation?
Paul’s “Mother”
So many noble women have served in the kingdom of Christ. They do not fully comprehend their contribution to the Lord’s servants and to his cause.
Sexual Promiscuity — A National Plague
The level of sexual sin in American culture today has reached alarming levels. Such debauchery cannot abide without widespread and long-lasting detriments. What can the Christian do?
New Birth
This expression takes its rise from the language employed by Christ in his conversation with Nicodemus (Jn. 3:1ff). The facts regarding the “new birth” are these. (a) It is an absolutely essential ...
Dr. Watson Bombs at Berkeley
This article discusses a recent speech by Dr. James Watson, co-discoverer of DNA, at the University of California at Berkeley.