This article discusses the false doctrine of the “immaculate conception” of Mary, mother of Jesus.

When Jesus said, “Buy a sword,” what did he mean?

The Bible knows nothing of an arbitrary divine election separate from human responsibility.

Moses prophesied of the coming leader of Israel that would be like unto him. This prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

What a thrilling concept it is to transition from being a stranger to becoming a citizen, indeed, a family member and a “friend.” Our Lord once said: “You are my friends if you do the things which I command you” (John 15:14).

What is faith? Is it merely trusting Jesus to save you? Or is action necessary for a believer to be pleasing to God?

What does “contending for the faith” mean?

No one can “snatch” Christ’s sheep away from him. (Jn. 10:28). But does this mean that a child of God can never fall from grace and be lost eternally?

The October 25th edition of U. S. News & World Report carried a sensational cover story titled “Is The Bible True?” The most significant thing about Jeffrey Sheler’s article, perhaps, is this: it reveals the telling concessions that even the most left-leaning thinkers are forced to make.

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.

In dealing with a contentious element in the Corinthian church, and in anticipation of a visit to this congregation, Paul admonished: “Examine yourselves.” Those who are conscientious regarding their own souls will appropriate this principle to their personal beliefs and practices.

We must try to master the art of forgiving—for others’ sake, and for our own.

According to the doctrine of dispensational premillennialism (a view endorsed by many today), the “church” was not a part of the divine plan of redemption initially. But that view is not consistent with divine revelation.

Critics claim that the Gospel records contradict due to the fact that some passages speak of Jesus being in the tomb three days and three nights, while other texts mention only three days. What is the solution to this alleged discrepancy?

The account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead helps us to understand the significance of agape love.

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?

This article discusses the meaning of Matthew 18:20 in its immediate context.

Jesus once observed a poor widow contributing into the treasury of the Jewish temple. This incident is twice recorded in the Gospel records. Of what significance is this narrative? Study this fascinating account in this week’s Penpoints.

Once we cease struggling with our faith, and let it slide, we are headed down a slippery slope that may lead to eternal ruin. What a horrible thought to contemplate. Lord, I believe; but help me in my times of unbelief!

It is a wonderful thing when Christians rush to the assistance of others during times of disaster. But do we always think clearly about the way we implement these efforts? A word of caution surely is in order. One aspect of this issue is addressed in this week’s Penpoints column.