Marriage is not a mere civil institution; it is a covenant agreement between two eligible people before God. Far too frequently, it becomes very “uncivil.” People who desire to please the Creator, will work hard to make their
marriages stable.

A recent news item highlighted a case where an inmate was refused the privilege of being immersed for the remission of his sins. A chorus of sectarian voices argued that “hard cases” like this negate the belief that baptism is a necessary condition for salvation. Is this quibble valid?

“Is it a sin for a Christian to be depressed? I am depressed sometimes, and I feel guilty about it. Can you give me any advice?” Christians should have the “peace that passes all understanding,” which Paul describes in Philippians 4:6-7. But this assurance is conditioned on habitually fighting anxiety through prayer. In life, we will all suffer emotional downturns. But Christians look to Christ for comfort and support, and they will be blessed through the divine promise of peace.

The Scriptures are either inspired by God or they are not.

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.

How should one view the literature of the Bible? As a mere human production? Or as the inspired word of God? First it is imperative that the sincere student ascertain how the biblical writers themselves viewed their productions. That is the thrust of this month’s Feature article. Study with us.

An atheist’s laughable attempt to criticize the Lord’s teaching is exposed.

The idea that all people will be saved appears to be gaining momentum. But the fact is, this dogma has no basis in Scripture and logically it is irrational.

Why do people say they have decided to quit the church?

“I know that my Redeemer liveth, and at last he will stand up upon the earth.”

The term “worldly” is not uncommon in our language. But what does the word really signify?

Most of us would like to have more confidence. Unfortunately, too many people have grounded their confidence upon rotten foundations and have ignored the genuine basis of trust and boldness.

In his first letter to Timothy, Paul uses the expression, “lifting up holy hands” (1 Tim. 2:8). Does this suggest that one should hold up his hands when praying? Wayne Jackson addresses this question.

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.

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.

What is the meaning of the expression “pure in heart,” in Christ’s promise that the “pure in heart” shall see God? Does this mean that sincerity alone is sufficient to finally obtain heaven?

We recognize that suicide is wrong, but what if a child takes his own life?

The language of this passage affirms that the human body is a work of intricate design and therefore could not have arisen by mere accident.

Sometimes well-meaning writers attribute to Christ incorrect attitudes or actions. We must be careful not to do that. Let us look carefully at this important issue.