A New Edict from the Vatican
This editorial discusses the recent Vatican affirmation regarding the “primacy of Peter.”
S. D. Gordon’s “Dispensationalism”
Was the death of Jesus Christ a part of God’s eternal plan for human salvation? Amazingly, some have contended it was not—contrary to the explicit testimony of Peter (see 1 Peter 1:19-20).
The Alleged Perpetual Virginity of Mary
The recent discovery of an ossuary (bone box) in Jerusalem that contained the phrase “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus” has rekindled the controversy as to whether Mary had children other than Jesus. Catholicism claims she did not. What does the actual evidence reveal?
Examining Premillennialism
Premillennialism, the doctrine that Christ will soon return to set up an earthly kingdom for a thousand years, is a popular idea these days. In this this article, Wayne Jackson examines this theory.
Titus 2:14; 1:16 & Revelation 3:5-16 – Three Types of “Good Works”
The New Testament depicts three attitudes/practices relative to “good works.” This makes for a fascinating study.
What Is Sola Scriptura?
The expression sola scriptura is a Latin term that reflects the affirmation that the “Scriptures alone” constitute the source of sacred revelation for the Christian age. A well-known Roman Catholic spokesman disputes this proposition. This article responds to his arguments.
Misdirected Benevolence
Spiritual people will feel compassion for the poor. But do we always exercise wisdom in our efforts to help? Let us reflect upon some principles relative to assisting the needy.
The Connection between Religion and Morality
Does morality thrive in the absence of religion? While some allege that it will, studies do not support that conclusion.
Obsessive Personalities
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.
What’s Wrong with the Promise Keepers Movement?
A group of men organized to form a plan to rejuvenate “Christian” men with a new spiritual emphasis. Everything came together eventually, and in 1993, Promise Keepers was born. But what’s wrong with the Promise Keepers movement?
May a Woman Ask a Question?
This question discusses whether or not a woman may ask a question in a Bible class without violating the Scriptures.
Pope Issues Apostolic Letter on 24th Anniversary of His “Petrine Ministry”
On October 16, 2002, John Paul II celebrated the anniversary of his 24th year of service as pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. News commentators compared this lengthy tenure with that of Peter himself! In this week’s Penpoints, Jason Jackson discusses the alleged connection between the apostle Peter and the man who now claims to be the apostle’s modern successor.
A Divine Platform for Christian Unity
In Paul’s letter to the saints in Ephesus, there is a marvelous platform for Christian unity. In this article, Wayne Jackson discusses the components of the plan for sacred unity.
Was Mormonism’s “Prophet” Misrepresented?
A critic has accused the Christian Courier of misrepresenting Joseph Smith, Jr., founder of the Mormon Church, with reference to one of his alleged “revelations.” Were we guilty of this infraction? Read this article and see.
A Response to a Lutheran Pastor
The belief that mankind is born with sin is without scriptural or logical foundation. Yet the teaching is quite common among denominationalists. The Lord’s church has been attacked for not upholding this ridiculous dogma.
Singin’ the Blues
To many, the fact that modern society appears to be immersed in filth and debauchery portends nothing but gloom. Others look on the brighter side and attempt to seize the opportunities.
LDS Baptism Annulled Due to Protest from Jews
A recent news item regarding the Mormon doctrine of “proxy baptism” highlights the inconsistencies of the practice and is the subject of this week’s Penpoints.
The Christian and the Workplace
More and more, it appears, Americans are finding that materialism isn’t what it’s cracked up to be. Without some sort of spiritual flavor, there is a void in life—an aching of the soul that longs for a greater satisfaction.
What Is a Necessary Inference?
Is “necessary inference” a valid method of arriving at biblical truth?
Is All Remarriage After Divorce Condemned?
Some allege that all second marriages following a divorce are prohibited. Does this theory have the support of Scripture? Has the New Testament information on this matter been corrupted? Study this issue with us.