The prophet Hosea described ancient Israel’s goodness as like the morning dew. What did he mean by this strange analogy?

In response to a recent article in which we argued that instrumental music in Christian worship is without divine authority, a critic replied by suggesting that we practice many things in Christianity that are bereft of authority. One example he cited was the use of Bible translations. In this week’s Penpoints, we refute this baseless quibble.

Sabbatarians contend that all of the Ten Commandments are binding today, including the requirement to “keep the Sabbath day holy.” They allege that if one argues that the Ten Commandments were abolished when Christ died, this would license all sorts of evil today. Is this argument sound? Wayne Jackson addresses this in this Q&A segment.

Some sincere Christians contend that the child of God may not address Christ, either in praise or through prayer. Will this case stand in the light of critical investigation? Carefully study this issue with us.

Is new always better than old? Not always. Some modern trends have had a negative impact on the church.

Is performance singing with praise teams, choirs or solos acceptable in the worship of Christ’s assembly? What are the arguments for and against this modern movement?

Some allege that whatever is not expressly forbidden is allowed in religious practice. Others contend that anything not authorized is not permitted. Is there any validity to the argument from silence?

Is it necessary to be a member of a local church?

Is a Saturday-night observance of the Lord’s Supper just as good as observing it on the Lord’s Day?

Some openly repudiate what they call “pattern theology.” The apostle Paul, however, did not.

Must the Bible explicitly condemn something to make it wrong?

The Jews of the Old Testament regime were responsible to the law of Moses. But what law were the Gentiles under? This is a question that perplexes many Bible students.

How is Christianity different than religions that worship several gods?

In the book of Exodus, there is a text that is thrilling beyond words to express. It contains prophecies of Israel’s future, and a promise of providence that is utterly baffling. Study this passage with us in this week’s Penpoints.

In his letter to the Galatians Paul wrote that “in Christ” there is neither “male nor female.” Does this mean that for Christians all gender distinctions have been abolished?

Are there any binding ordinances for Christian giving in the New Testament?

The writer of the book of Hebrews says that Abel, the first murder victim, is yet speaking. What is he saying? Are we listening?

Was Jesus fully God or less than fully God while he was on the earth?

Words are vehicles of information; even the smallest words can be packed with meaning. Such is the case with the term “must.” Often overlooked; more often ignored, this important word must be studied carefully.