Wise Men Still Seek His Star - Wise men did the smartest thing of all. They remained open to God's lead. They made sure they were available to follow the sign when it did come, and they were willing to go wherever it led them.
The Feast of Tabernacles - The joyful Feast of Ingathering represents the time during which God will gather the great harvest of humanity into His family.
The Biblical Festivals That Reveal Christ's Role in God's Plan - Jesus Christ celebrated seven festivals every year that most Christians today can't even name, yet they have His imprint all over them. He is the reason for each of these seasons, and they have great meaning for anyone who would like to follow Him better. What are these festivals, and what do they reveal about our Savior and King?
One Mile Away From Terror - It is one thing to read about a terrorist bombing thousands of miles away from our comfortable homes. It is altogether different to be in the same city when a bomb blast goes off, killing dozens. It changes your perspective.
Shadows of the World to Come - Each article of this publication seeks to point the way to God's view of today's world and the spiritual solutions to its problems.
The Biblical Map to Jesus Christs Return - Maps show the way from where you are to your final destination. The Bible provides the only spiritual map to our ultimate destiny. Doesn't it make good sense to plan your life's journey by learning how to read the genuine biblical map?
A Word Not Spoken - In our relationships with friends and family, we are often concerned with saying exactly the right thing at the right time. However, in a difficult situation sometimes the best thing to say is nothing at all.
China: The Lotus Flower Is Blossoming Again - China only occasionally appears in the daily news in the United States, but it actually deserves much more attention. The road ahead is a rocky one, but leading inexorably toward colossal power.
The China-Taiwan Tinderbox - The Korean War showed how easily a local war in Asia, like the brewing China-Taiwan conflict, can escalate.
Conviction or Preference? - As you face your battles over spiritual principle, be courageous. Be strong. Stand firm. If need be, be willing to prove that your spiritual beliefs truly are convictions.
You've Got to Stand for Something! - Many today have embraced tolerance for everything, mistakenly thinking they haven't taken a stand. But no stand is often also a stand. How can you decide what you will stand for?
Is It Ok To Have Secrets? - Everybody has secrets, and the Bible tells us that this is okay, especially when it comes to private matters and confidences that others share with us
The Resurrection Connection - How did worship of an ancient god and goddess come to be associated with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? Although the details are lost in time, a closer look at the ancient mythology surrounding their worship will help us understand how pagan practices have survived in popular Easter customs.
Christians Who Don't Celebrate Easter: What Do They Know? - Easter is the most important holiday for hundreds of millions of believers around the world. Yet thousands of Christians don't observe it. Do they know something that others don't?
The Resurrection Connection - How did worship of an ancient god and goddess come to be associated with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ?
Brick by Brick - "We could not have done anything single-handedly. In our culture, when you lose someone in the family, people come to stay with you. The Israelis have come to stay with us."
The Spirit World's Dangerous Dark Side - Strange practices and religions such as Wicca, Santeria, voodoo and channeling are growing in popularity. What's behind them? Are such things harmless, or is there more to them than meets the eye?
Who Will Go to Hell? - What is hell? In the Bible the word hell is mentioned 54 times. It is translated from four different words. The only one in the Old Testament -- sheol in the Hebrew -- and one in the New Testament -- hades in Greek -- have the meaning of the grave, a pit or the abode of the dead. Sheol is the only word in the Old Testament from which hell is translated in the King James Version of the Bible. It is translated "hell" 31 times. Hades is translated "hell" 10 times in the New Testament.
The Value of Student-Teacher Relationships - "Faculty are supposed to make the sparks fly intellectually, and from time to time, we're supposed to make lightning strike." -- Ross Thomas
The Value of Student-Teacher Relationships - "Faculty are supposed to make the sparks fly intellectually, and from time to time, we're supposed to make lightning strike." -- Ross Thomas
When Is the Sabbath to Be Kept? - The Sabbath, then, was a time for religious instruction, for teaching and learning of God's wondrous acts and laws. Customary work was prohibited and God's great miracles were to be remembered on this day. "
We All Have a Lot to Learn - He must still have been curious about the church because while we were gone for the Feast he crawled through a bedroom window of our home to get some church literature to read.
Standing on a Chair - Let us reason together. Focus on vision, involvement and commitment.
Child Rearing: Building the Right Foundation - Our attitude toward our children is perhaps the single most important consideration in proper child rearing. Do we really love our children? Do our words and actions show our children we love them? Will we, and do we, sacrifice for them? Do we make time to show we care for them?
Teach Your Children God's Ways - Jesus Christ recognized that children must be included in the spiritual life of His followers. Are we teaching them to love God's ways and especially His Sabbath?
Passing on Our Faith to Our Children - Teaching our children about God and leading them into a relationship with God can be intimidating. Nonetheless, all parents have a responsibility to teach their children about God and His Word.
Overcome Obstacles to Instruction - God places a high priority on parents teaching their children. But we may find there are obstacles that hinder our intent to fulfill this duty.
How Can We Pass Our Faith on to Our Children - In a previous article we covered the basic reasons why we should teach our children about God. Now we’ll look at the actual mechanics as well as a good general approach to instructing our children.
Help Your Child Refute Evolution - Your children are likely being indoctrinated almost continuously with evolutionary teachings and ideas not only at school, but just about everywhere. Here are some tips for helping them deal with these false concepts.
No More Tears - The good news is that your Bible reveals an incredible prophetic promise about a future time when things will be dramatically different from anything that exists now or ever has.
Do Not Despise 'Little Ones' - Jesus Christ tells us to carefully consider our attitudes toward those who aren't as well off. A lot is riding on it -- for them as well as for us.
The Limitations of Technology - A world of science and technology without a core reliance on God creates a bleak existence. As people become dependent on scientific and technical achievements to the exclusion of the true spiritual values, we are in danger of creating a world without God.
Divorce's Devastating Impact on Children - The consequences of divorce on children are far reaching. Among these are depression, increased rates of drug and alcohol abuse, and inability to forge close relationships.
Courage in an Age of Apathy - In this issue of Youth United, we're going to focus on this important subject in an effort to help all of us become more courageous Christians.
A Holy Day Provides Comfort - I'd enjoyed a wonderful Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day with my family and friends. Little did I know how important the meaning of this final Holy Day was going to be when I returned home.
What Will Tomorrow's Mothers Be Like? - As you look at the girl "tweens" (8- to 14-year-olds) of today, what kind of mothers do you think they will make for tomorrow? What type of young woman is our Western culture producing? Girls have a clear choice between two wildly contrasting possibilities.
The Mothers of 2015 - As you look at the girl "tweens" (8- to 14-year-olds) of today, what kind of mothers do you think they will make for tomorrow? What type of young woman is our Western culture producing? Each girl has a clear choice between two wildly contrasting possibilities.
Borderline Christians: A New Generation - Being indecisive is a common affliction today. Why is it that so many want to be part of the world and part of the Church at the same time?
Teens and Alcohol - Teens are consuming larger amounts of alcohol than in the past, and it is often done illegally. Is this just a harmless way to fit in with the crowd?
Can You Pass the Marshmallow Test? - Everyone likes to enjoy life, but are you willing to deny yourself a little pleasure now for a lot more, later? That decision is more important than you may think.
Who Would You Follow? - Everyone chooses role models. Sometimes we emulate people who are older than us. At other times, it is people our own age or even younger than us. How can we decide whom to follow?
How Mass Media Sells Sex - The idea of sexual freedom is kept alive and well by what Dr. Meg Meeker considers a major cause of the current epidemic of teen sex -- mass media and the sexually charged world our kids see.
Teen Sex: The Silent Epidemic That's Killing Our Kids - Sweeping the world, this silent epidemic is largely ignored by most Western governments -- except for misguided programs that often make this devastating problem even worse. Most parents have little idea how bad this epidemic is, much less how to fight it -- yet solid biblical solutions exist.
World News and Trends - Jul/Aug 2003 - With so much happening so quickly in today's world, how can you keep up? The Good News staff reviews dozens of news sources every day to bring you what's truly important.
What Will Tomorrow's Mothers Be Like? - As you look at the girl "tweens" (8- to 14-year-olds) of today, what kind of mothers do you think they will make for tomorrow? What type of young woman is our Western culture producing? Girls have a clear choice between two wildly contrasting possibilities.
Why Isn't Sex Safe? - An estimated 45 million people in the United States are infected with genital herpes. The number is growing by a million new cases a year. This year one in four sexually active teens will contract a sexually transmitted disease. Young people are encouraged to practice "safe sex"—but is there such a thing?
In the News Oct/Dec 2003 - "Devil's Highway" at a Dead End. Study Finds Sexually Active Teens More Likely to Suffer Depression.
A Touchy Subject - The time to make decisions about physical contact is before you get in a touchy situation. Making a decision on the fly with no forethought is a recipe for going too far.
Sex, Dating and You! - Misunderstandings about God's instructions are contributing to some tragic heartaches. Learn how you can enjoy life to the fullest -- God's way
Can You Pass the Marshmallow Test? - Everyone likes to enjoy life, but are you willing to deny yourself a little pleasure now for a lot more, later? That decision is more important than you may think.
Dancing With Indecency - Are you aware of the latest dance craze? Freak dancing is sweeping the western world, thanks to the promotion MTV has given it over the past several years. Kids and school administrators clash over whether it's acceptable. Parents seem uncertain how to deal with the situation.
The Mothers of 2015 - As you look at the girl "tweens" (8- to 14-year-olds) of today, what kind of mothers do you think they will make for tomorrow? What type of young woman is our Western culture producing? Each girl has a clear choice between two wildly contrasting possibilities.
In the News Oct/Dec 2003 - "Devil's Highway" at a Dead End. Study Finds Sexually Active Teens More Likely to Suffer Depression.
Born to Succeed! - When loneliness and depression beat you down, remember, there is Someone to help you up. Don't accept the label "loser," because you were born to succeed!
Alarming Facts About Smoking Addiction - A study conducted by Dr. Joseph Di Franza of the University of Massachusetts Medical School and an international team of researchers showed how dangerously addictive tobacco can be.
Handling Difficulties Discreetly - We should not overreact or lash out verbally. All young people are sorting through complex and confusing issues in life.
Dancing With Indecency - Are you aware of the latest dance craze? Freak dancing is sweeping the western world, thanks to the promotion MTV has given it over the past several years. Kids and school administrators clash over whether it's acceptable. Parents seem uncertain how to deal with the situation.
Teens and Alcohol - Teens are consuming larger amounts of alcohol than in the past, and it is often done illegally. Is this just a harmless way to fit in with the crowd?
Looking Good - In this issue of Youth United, we want to help young people become more like King David in the sense of honoring God through their thoughts and their appearance.
You Want to Pierce Your What? - Body piercing has become quite fashionable today. But is this practice wise and, more importantly, what does God think about it?
Is the Bible Study Course for Young People? - Many people don't realize that the United Church of God's free Bible Study Course was designed with young people in mind. Here is the story behind its development.
Career Tips - Knowing that many of our readers are trying to decide what careers to embark upon, Vertical Thought asked for suggestions from those who have recently found jobs about how they decided on a career or got the job. Here is some information that can be of help when you make these important decisions.
Teaching Values to Your Child: How to Make Wise Media Choices - It's no secret that much of the media our children are exposed to promotes values contrary to Christian values. How can we teach them how to decide what music to listen to and which movies to see?
Courage Under Fire - Do you do what is right and good even if it is difficult? Many today are more interested in personal happiness than personal goodness. Is it possible to have both?
Handling Difficulties Discreetly - We should not overreact or lash out verbally. All young people are sorting through complex and confusing issues in life.
Looking Good - In this issue of Youth United, we want to help young people become more like King David in the sense of honoring God through their thoughts and their appearance.
A Forgotten Treasure - Many young people don't realize the value of talking with older people. Consider what this man discovered. Perhaps you can recognize this treasure before you grow old.
Speaking of Family... - Could you use some advice about how to better get along with members of your family -- your parents, your brothers, your sisters? This issue of Youth United focuses on these very issues.
How to Raise YOUR Parents! - Have you considered how you as a teen could positively influence your relationship with your parents (or parent)?
Act Without Thinking - It seems like strange advice, but come along and you'll see what I mean.
Teens Pursue Spirituality, But Without God? - Many teens want to live in ways that are healthy and moral, in spite of the example set by the adult generation. But are they choosing spirituality without God?
Living With One Parent - Single-parent households have increased dramatically in recent years. While God's intent was for young people to live with both parents, due to various factors, many don't have this luxury. What can young people do if they live with only one of their parents? What have teens and parents of single-parent households discovered?
A Special Friend - Friendships don't have to just be with people our own age. Read this heart-warming story about a friendship that spanned the generations.
The Value of Reading - Sadly, more and more people today are giving up the printed word in favor of being entertained and informed by the talking head and crystal clear imagery of the ever-larger TV set that sits as a throne in the center of their living space.
Television Facts - By the time most Americans are 18 years old, they have spent more time in front of the television set than they have spent in school, and far more than they have spent talking with their teachers, their friends or even their parents.
Television Facts - By the time most Americans are 18 years old, they have spent more time in front of the television set than they have spent in school, and far more than they have spent talking with their teachers, their friends or even their parents.
A Front-Row Seat for Suffering - Repeated exposure to violence - real and feigned - in news and entertainment hardens us to the real suffering of others.
The Battle for Your Mind - Why do you think the way you do? Are the choices you make truly your own, or do influences beyond your control unduly sway your opinions?
Lead Us Not Onto Temptation Island - A titilating television show pushes the bounds of accepted morality even further while presenting only the seamy and steamy side of the story.
Can You Believe the Bible? - Before the new television season started last fall, writers and producers pressured network cenors to again lower standards as to what would be aired over American television.
Is Your Family Manipulated by Mass Media? - Does your family properly use electronic mass media? Or do you let the media abuse you? Here are 10 principles to help you regain control and stamp out media abuse.
Who's Telling You What to Think? - Some people accept the news they read in newspapers and watch on television as the gospel truth. Is such trust in our mass media justified? Do you really know who's telling you what to think and why?
How Mass Media Sells Sex - The idea of sexual freedom is kept alive and well by what Dr. Meg Meeker considers a major cause of the current epidemic of teen sex -- mass media and the sexually charged world our kids see.
You Can Win the War Against the Family - Modern pop culture is robbing children of their innocence while undermining their character growth by addicting them to random violence, filthy language and explicit sex. In spite of this subtle brainwashing, you can still win the war being waged against your family.
The Culture of Narcissism - Consumerism has gotten a lock on the American psyche through the drowning in mom entary pleasures and trivial pursuits.
Television Facts - By the time most Americans are 18 years old, they have spent more time in front of the television set than they have spent in school, and far more than they have spent talking with their teachers, their friends or even their parents.
Mass Culture's Horrendous Consequences - The 21st century sees the entertainment-centered culture of the Western world spread around the globe through movies, television, music and the Internet. Rather than genuinely "entertaining" in a wholesome sense, the effect appears to encourage self-indulgence of the crudest and rawest elements of human nature.
Has America Lost Its 'Moral Mind'? - While You Were Sleeping was a movie several years ago about dramatic developments in a family when one of its members was in a coma. Were you sleeping last summer? Do you know what happened in the "American family"?
Why Do People Hate Us So Much? - There is much hatred and resentment directed toward the United States throughout the world, not just in the Middle East. One scripture helps us to understand why the problem has worsened in recent decades: "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people"
Discerning the Truth From Lies - In our culture that has been influenced by the Bible for centuries, it is a religious belief that people should tell the truth. Why?
The High Priest Essential to Salvation - Hebrews covers the distinctions between the Sinai Covenant and the New Covenant—and the role of God's law in each.
Paul Imprisoned Over a Man-Made Taboo - Paul's imprisonment resulted from a false charge that he had taken a gentile with him past a forbidden checkpoint in the temple compound.
Does Prophecy Tell Us When Christ Will Return? - Since the days of the apostles,people have predicted Jesus Christ's return. Does Bible prophecy indicate when this long awaited event will at last come to pass?
Signs of the End Times - Every generation has its prophets of doom who claim that the end of the world is right around the corner. Christians, who read the Old Testament prophets and the book of Revelation in the New Testament, often lead the charge. Could Jesus come back at any time, or are there events that must happen before He returns?
Signs of the End Times -- Only Possible in Our Day - Every generation has its prophets of doom who claim that the end of the world is right around the corner. Could Jesus return at any time, or must certain events take place prior to His return?
Return to Jerusalem - In Jerusalem there is a mixture of many old things that never change along with some new features that create major change.
Abomination of Desolation - "Therefore when you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (whoever reads, let him understand)."
The Tearing of the Temple Veil - "The temple was torn in two from top to bottom ..." What did this mean, this event that was so important that three of the Gospel writers mentioned it?
The Tearing of the Temple Veil - "The temple was torn in two from top to bottom ..." What did this mean, this event that was so important that three of the Gospel writers mentioned it?
A New Covenant for Transforming the Heart - God's "new" covenant is a "better covenant" that offers the "better promises" related to eternal life that were not included in the Sinai Covenant. A key objective of those better promises is to set in motion the process of transforming the hearts and minds of those who respond to God's call.
Papal Visit Highlights Middle East Problems - Much of the state of Israel's history in the 20th century is a chronicle of wars and other conflicts with her Arab neighbors. The recent visit of the pope highlighted some of these still simmering animosities and and hints as to what may lie ahead in this troubled region.
A High Priest Eager to Help Us - Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:15-16, NRSV).
How We Are Tempted - Paul cautioned Christians, having turned from Satan's influence, not to surrender again to it.
Why Do We Sin? - All of us have to deal with sin and its tragic consequences in our lives. Understanding why we sin is a first step in overcoming and avoiding sin.
Lead Us Not Onto Temptation Island - A titilating television show pushes the bounds of accepted morality even further while presenting only the seamy and steamy side of the story.
Promises to Abraham - God's enduring righteousness is demonstrated by his faithfulness in fulfilling all the promises He made to the father of the faithful, Abraham.
Truth as a Way of Life - How important is truth? To fully appreciate the Ninth Commandment, with its prohibition of lying, we must realize how important truth is to God.
What Is God Like? - The Second Commandment goes to the heart of our relationship with our Creator.
Life Is a Precious Gift - What makes human life precious? Consider it from God's point of view. He made us in His own image for the purpose of creating us in His own character.
Must We Obey God's Commandments? - We have a natural tendency to resent having our fleshly desires limited by rules, even God's rules.
The Foundation of True Values - From beginning to end the Bible is a book of spiritual instruction. Its main focus is on God's spiritual law, embodied in the Ten Commandments. They are a reflection of God's mind and character.
Is God's Law Bondage? - Some theologians associate God's law with slavery. But the Bible presents it as the missing key to true freedom.
Could Jesus Christ Be Elected to the White House? - If Jesus were on Earth today, a facinating question to ponder os whether the American people would ever elect Him to be the President of the United States?
Questions and Answers - Jul/Aug 2002 - Questions and answers from the Good News magazine on the fourth commandment and biblical inspiration and translation.
Is the United States Still a Moral Nation? - The recent election showed that almost half of the U.S. electorate is uncomforta ble with a president who is open about his religious faith and has stated that J esus Christ is the Person he most admires. What about the other half? They may c laim to get their values from the Bible, but do they really?
Who Determines Right From Wrong? - Across the United States people are involved in an ongoing debate about the Ten Commandments. Court battles have been waged over displaying the Ten Commandments in schools and on government property. It's ironic that while some Christians vehemently defend the posting of the Ten Commandments, many other Christians believe that these laws have no application to modern Christianity.
The Spread of Freedom: Foretaste for the Entire World? - In recent months we've witnessed a trend away from oppression and toward freedom in some countries. Encouraging though this is, it doesn't compare with what God has in store for the entire world!
Whatever Happened to Sin? - It used to be common to hear messages condemning sin and warning of its consequences. Now most religious messages pass over the uncomfortable reality of sin to focus on "feel-good" themes. What is happening to Christianity—and is it missing a crucial part of Christ's message?
Does the New Covenant Abolish the Commandments? - The Bible tells us that Christ came as the Mediator of a better covenant. The popular belief that the New Covenant abolishes God's law reflects a misunderstanding of both covenants.
Don't Worry, You Won't Miss the Parade - The apostle Paul describes the ultimate parade of the ultimate Independence Day when man is freed from the self-imposed tyranny of death.
Written in Stone or on the Heart? The Controversy Over the Ten Commandments - Over 80 percent of Americans surveyed in one poll said they favored keeping the Ten Commandments on display in the Alabama Judicial Building. That's good. Whether they would want to see Alabamans -- or all Americans -- truly living under the moral dictates of all God's commandments is another question entirely.
Connecting the Dots - We cannot see that the freedoms we cherish draw their basis from the spiritual laws outlined in the simple yet profound document known as the Ten Commandments.
Partitioning Morality - "Does having an extramarital affair mean that a government official is unfit to hold office?" This and related questions have been the focus of the U.S. news media throughout the summer of 2001. Is the subject newsworthy, or is it just gossip? The debate swirling around the subject illustrates a growing phenomenon - partitioning morality. What does it portend for the future?
The Ten Commandments: Keys in a Law of Love - God is love, and His laws, particularly as summarized in the Ten Commandments, show us the actions that demonstrate love toward others — first toward God, and then toward our fellow man.
Are Things Really Better Than We Think? - How are we doing in the Western world? Clearly there is more than one viewpoint: Some scenarios are fairly rosy and others pretty gloomy. Which is the closest to the truth? Moreover, are people overlooking the most important judgment factor?
Christ's New Commandment - Did Jesus replace the clear definitions of the Ten Commandments with a new religious principle, that love alone can guide our lives?
How Can We Obey God's Commandments? - In peoples' minds, keeping God's commandments is an unattainable goal. But these commandments can be obeyed, at least in the outward letter of the law, by ordinary people.
Questions and Answers - Jul/Aug 2002 - Questions and answers from the Good News magazine on the fourth commandment and biblical inspiration and translation.
Berlin - Europe's Future Political Capital? - British correspondent Gerhard Marx visited the German capital in mid-June. Here is his timely historical and prophetic analysis.
Are All Israelites Jews? - Are all Israelites Jews? No. Jews - the citizens and descendants of the kingdom of Judah - are indeed Israelites, but not all Israelites are Jews. The term Jew is accurate only for the people that made up the kingdom of Judah and their descendants.
The Tribe Tracker's Guide to the Future - What in the world has God been doing? What will God do with the world in the future? Here's how you can track ancient tribes through history to understand prophecy. Think of it as a portal to God's plan for all mankind and your personal guide to the future.
Pride of America's Power: Approaching the Breaking Point? - Last month in part one of this series we showed the vast power currently held by the United States. Could we see a time when this power, in all its forms, will be broken, no longer able to influence world events? The answer is found in Bible prophecy.
Linguistic Links: What's in a Name? - This linguistic journey ties together a few of the many labels applied to the exiled 10 tribes as the "House of Omri" and the "Sons of Isaac."
God's Commitment to Abraham and His Descendants - The United States of America and the British Commonwealth of nations fit exacting criteria for the promises to Abraham's descendants. We embark on a study of historical evidence of the tribes of Israel from their beginning as a nation down to our day.
How Is the Work of the Church Supported? - Christ has commissioned His church to carry on the work He started. God's tithe funds that effort. As Christians, we are called to be coworkers with Christ.
WNP—10 Years On - Keep reading WNP to help you stay current with news and trends analyzed in the light of Bible prophecy. It is better than any other source to which you can go.
True Righteousness Comes From the Heart - Our transgressions of God's law of love begin in the heart. From within come the desires that tempt us and lead us astray.
Coming Calamities: Does God Offer Protection? - Where will you be when terror strikes the nations? Does God offer safety for anyone? Will He care about you when your fellow man doesn't?
The Cost of Immorality in the War on Terror - Pictures of abuse of Iraqi prisoners of war by American servicemen and servicewomen have shocked the world. What are the implications for America and the war on terror?
What Lies Ahead for U.S. Leadership? - The nexy four years could bring thorny problems for America's leadership in the world. The next president will face the consequences fo missed oportunities in the 1990's.
Spiritual Warfare Behind the Scenes - Deeply entrenched religious issues are at the heart of the war on terrorism. They are inflamed by a power greater than either the worldwide terrorist network or the combined military might of the United States, Britian the rest of NATO and Russia. You need to understand what that power is.
A War of Two Worlds - What's behind Islamic religious extremists' war against the West?
After Iraq, What Next? - As the world focuses its attention on the conflict between the United States and Iraq, it's easy to overlook the many other threats facing the United States. What are these threats, and what do they portend?
What's Behind Today's Worldwide Wave of Terrorism? - Passenger jets blown out of the sky, suicide bombings that deliberately target innocent civilians, men who shoot fleeing children in the back -- what do these horrors have in common, and why?
Appeasement in the Face of Danger: Deadly Parallels - Following the July 7 terror bombings in London, many evoked memories of the blitz in World War II. Regrettably, that's not the only analogy with the Second World War that is appropriate.
Terrorism in the 21st Century - A World News and Prophecy interview with Christopher Dobson, an expert on terrorism.
Five Years After 9/11 - Five years have now elapsed since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks stunned the entire world. So far no similar terrorist attacks have occurred in the United States, and only a few have impacted the rest of the Western world. Could there be more than meets the eye as to why?
The End of War, Terror and Other Bad Stuff - Many young people today fear for their personal safety. Most everyone can document the problems, but this article dares to aim for the solution.
War on Terrorism Is Spiritual Warfare - Al Qaeda terrorists labor to define the war on terrorism as the West vs. Islam-a definition that Western leaders throw off. Yet deeply entrenched religious issues are at the heart of the current war. And they are inflamed by a power greater than either the worldwide terrorist network or the combined military might of the United States, Britain, the rest of NATO and Russia.
Islamic Fundamentalism Resurges - Inadvertently, American culture threatens the traditional way of life of all the Islamic peoples. This is a major cause of resentment if not outright hatred toward the United States.
Couldn't Get It Out of My Head - Ezekiel 9:4 speaks of God separating to Himself a people "who sigh and cry over all the abominations that are done within it." Christ picks up this thought during His earthly ministry when He comments in Matthew 5:4, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
Will European Unity Be Forged in Fear? - The recent terrorist attack in Spain has impacted elections and policies in Europe. Is this a trigger for future events that will create a larger cohesive continental power?
Islamic Extremists Attack the West in Many Countries - "Wars and rumors of wars" (Matthew 24:6) were prophesied by Jesus Christ to be a major area of concern at the time of "the end of the age" (verse 3). Interestingly, false religion was prophesied to precede these conflicts: "For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many" (verse 5).
"Without Blood on My Hands" - We are called to live today by the laws of the coming Kingdom of God. We will meet our Maker without any blood on our hands.
A Cure for Code Orange - I can't stop living. And, for sure, I can't stop believing that there is a cure for the Code Oranges of this lifetime.
One Mile Away From Terror - It is one thing to read about a terrorist bombing thousands of miles away from our comfortable homes. It is altogether different to be in the same city when a bomb blast goes off, killing dozens. It changes your perspective.
World Heading Into the Perfect Storm - World conditions are developing like "the perfect storm," warned former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright in a recent speech. Placing her comments alongside biblical revelation provides us with unique insight into what is about to happen in the world -- and what to do about it.
Terrorism in the 21st Century - A World News and Prophecy interview with Christopher Dobson, an expert on terrorism.
Getting Underneath the Skin - Many of us are simply not aware of the devastating reality of what happens when a bomb goes off.
Europe in Crisis -- Is This the End of the European Union? - Following the July 7 terror bombings in London, many evoked memories of the blitz in World War II. Regrettably, that's not the only analogy with the Second World War that is appropriate.
Disasters to Hit the United States - The United States has faced its greatest national health emergencies in the past five years. What do they show about America’s ability to handle national disasters? What is yet to come?
Can We Win the War on Terror? - The world is at war. It's not the long-envisioned nuclear exchange, but don't count nuclear weapons out. This is a shadowy war of principle, one the United States, Britain and their allies are ill-equipped to win.
Key to the Middle East-Seek First to Understand - The poor of the world will suffer one more time before Christ intervenes with His form of government that will bring a lasting and secure peace.
Is Peace in Palestine Possible? - The current U.S. administration is embarking on a familiar path followed by several previous administrations -- attempting to bring genuine peace between the Israelis and Palestinians. It's a joint effort, involving many nations. Dubbed the "road map" to peace, will this succeed where numerous previous attempts failed? Bible prophecy gives us a different kind of road map to help us sort out these events.
Restoration: Will We Heed the Warning? - Be glad that some political leaders have the courage to sound an alarm. But most of all, be thankful for the promise that Jesus Christ will return to restore all things.
God's Wake-Up Call - The United States and most other nations are at war against terrorism! Is there a message from God to all peoples in the midst of all this suffering and uncertainty?
Terror by Chemical Bombs - Is a chemical bomb the next weapon of choice that al-Qaeda groups will use on the United States, the United Kingdom and continental Europe? There are strong indications that it is!
Could Ahmadinejad Be Daniel's "King of the South"? - American President Bush and Iranian President Ahmadinejad. That there could be any comparison at all initially seems improbable to say the least! But making the comparison yields both parallels and paradoxes, and it may predict a colossal confrontation in the making.
U.S. Not Secure Against Bioterrorist Attacks - Is the U.S. vulnerable to attack by terrorists using biological agents? How likely is it that such attacks would be launched in the next five to ten years?
We Hold These Truths... - Even though America has not restored freedom to the entire earth -- only God's Kingdom will do that -- it may well be a type of the time to come when we'll see the restoration of all things.
From Farm to Fork - How Safe Is the Food Supply? - "Farm to Fork" is the catchphrase repeated throughout the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and EU documents on the issue of securing the food supply against intentional contamination. How safe is the food supply?
Dealing Effectively With a World of Terrorism and Tragedy - From Sept. 11, 2001, until now and unfortunately on into the foreseeable future, we have lived and are living in a different world -- too often blighted by the specter of fear. How does our Creator advise us to respond to the fears within us all?
Praying More Than Ever - We need to pray for the strength and perseverance to endure the times that are coming upon this world. God has promised us protection, and we will receive that deliverance by remaining dedicated to Him and seeking first His Kingdom.
Brick by Brick - "We could not have done anything single-handedly. In our culture, when you lose someone in the family, people come to stay with you. The Israelis have come to stay with us."
What's Behind Today's Worldwide Wave of Terrorism? - Passenger jets blown out of the sky, suicide bombings that deliberately target innocent civilians, men who shoot fleeing children in the back -- what do these horrors have in common, and why?
Nov. 2 -- A Sobering Lesson for Us All - Election Day in the United States was a day of great significance around the world, but not just because of the election results.
War & Peace - War and peace have been constant themes throughout history. Wars are fought and peace follows. Eventually, other wars come along, followed by peaceful interludes. Man seems unable to learn the lessons.
Focus on Sudan -- More Than a Humanitarian Crisis - The disaster in the Darfur region of Sudan is called "the worst humanitarian crisis in the world today." Why doesn't the United Nations simply stop it? Why don't the world's powerful nations step in to end the crisis? This article separates the tangled issues to show what is happening and why, as well as what to expect next.
What Lies Ahead for U.S. Leadership? - The nexy four years could bring thorny problems for America's leadership in the world. The next president will face the consequences fo missed oportunities in the 1990's.
From Farm to Fork - How Safe Is the Food Supply? - "Farm to Fork" is the catchphrase repeated throughout the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and EU documents on the issue of securing the food supply against intentional contamination. How safe is the food supply?
Homeland Security: What Crucial Piece Is the United States Missing? - After the devastating terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, homeland security became a top priority for the United States. Yet, at the same time, it seems to be overlooking the most important aspect of its safety, and the risk is incalculable. What is this crucial component of any people's long-term security?
Palestine/Israel -- Whose Land Is It, Really? Part 2 - When the people who have divine right to Palestine receive the land from God, He will require them to be a model nation and a benefactor to all other nations. Nations will neither terrorize nor conquer each other any more.
Beware of Prophecies! - Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world" (1 John 4:1).
The End of the World: What Does the Bible Say? - Our main focus should be to seek God to be spiritually prepared for the times that are coming. "But keep on the alert at all times," said Jesus, "praying in order that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man" (Luke 21:36)
The Importance of Godly Character - When we face difficult choices, God can see how committed to Him we are. Only when we obey Him under duress is the depth of our character fully evident.
Serving in Thailand - Teaching in exotic Thailand for a year brought unexpected challenges and personal changes. The experience gave us broader perspectives and deeper insights into other cultures, ourselves and God's way.
Two Men and a Valley - The world will never have lasting peace so long as men reserve for war the finest human qualities. (John Foster Dulles)
Thanksgiving Day: More Than Just Being Thankful - Americans celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday every November. Perhaps this is the appropriate season to wonder if there is a difference between being thankful and giving thanks.
The Sacrifice of Thanksgiving - What is the origin of the Thanksgiving holiday? What biblical lessons should we learn from it?
The Intelligent Design Revolution - A new movement is starting to shake a scientific establishment built on the assumptions of Darwinian evolution. What is intelligent design, and why is it gaining so much ground?
Britain Debates Life's Ultimate Question - Especially in the last year, the reemergence of media coverage about aggressive atheism has helped focus British attention on that most crucial of all questions: Does God exist? Even scientists are arguing the question. In spite of a rather vigorous defense, atheism certainly appears to be gaining ground in Britain and Europe.
Can You Believe Both the Bible and Evolution? - A number of the world's mainstream religions have come to accept Darwinian evolution as the explanation for our existence. But does Darwinism really square with the Scriptures?
Right Dating: What Guys and Girls Want - Like a perfect rose blooming in a pockmarked battlefield is the fine art of proper dating. Most of what you've learned about dating in popular culture is like the battlefield. Want to keep your emotions, body and spirit flying safely above the bombs bursting in air? Then read on!
Right Dating: What Guys and Girls Want - Like a perfect rose blooming in a pockmarked battlefield is the fine art of proper dating. Most of what you've learned about dating in popular culture is like the battlefield. Want to keep your emotions, body and spirit flying safely above the bombs bursting in air? Then read on!
Why We Must Change Our Way of Thinking - A change in the way we think is the most important aspect of real repentance. After we receive the Holy Spirit, we are better able to sustain right behavior as the fruit of our new way of thinking.
A Beautiful, Vertical Mind - Mentally speaking, are you all there? Many people don't realize they're missing a critical nonphysical component.
'The Third Day' - Do you remember when you learned that Santa Claus wasn't real? Guess what? Good Friday and a Sunday resurrection aren't either. Discover the real story from the pages of the Bible itself!
Jacob: A Third-Generation Man of God - If Jacob, grandson of Abraham and son of Isaac, were alive today, we might call him a third-generation Christian. What lessons does his story hold for young people today?
"Waiting on the World to Change" - "Me and all my friends, we're all misunderstood They say we stand for nothing, there's no way we ever could Now we see everything is going wrong with the world and those who lead it We just feel like we don't have the means to rise above and beat it So we keep waiting, waiting on the world to change . . ."
The Crisis of Third World Debt - Since the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank began their "debt relief" programs, most Heavily Indebted Poor Countries have moved more deeply into debt.
How to Live on $25 a Month - Try to imagine living on $25 a month - less than $1 a day. That's how much the average worker earns in the West African county of Ghana.
The Message of Mitch - A tragic example of the poor's vulnerability to natural disasters.
A Blueprint for Prosperity - No one has designed an economic system capable of eliminating poverty among nations.
The G8 and the Elephant in the Living Room - Any potential good that might have come from the recent summit of the world's economic giants was overshadowed by the death of two rioters among approximately 100,000 who gathered in Genoa to protest the talks. Widespread international poverty remains unresolved, and the United States grows increasingly unpopular.
Has the Third World War Already Begun? - A provocative new book by a French journalist says today's clash of civilizations constitutes the opening phases of a devastating global conflict.
Life Is a Precious Gift - What makes human life precious? Consider it from God's point of view. He made us in His own image for the purpose of creating us in His own character.
Good Thoughts and Your Computer - Playing computer games is a common pastime for many young people. Unfortunately, there are pitfalls to some cyber fun.
Threats to Physical Survival - The nuclear menace remains the most obvious threat to human survival. But by no means is it the only one. Authorities cite several ways in which human actions or natural disasters could eliminate most -- if not all -- human life.
Will America Run Away From Iraq? - Does America have the will to endure a protracted conflict in the Middle East? Or will it follow its pattern of withdrawing in the face of determined resistance from both inside and outside the country?
Jesus Wasn't Crucified on Friday - or Resurrected on Sunday! - How can we fit three days and three nights between a Friday afternoon crucifixion and an Easter Sunday sunrise? The fact is, we can't. So what is the truth about when Jesus was crucified and resurrected?
The Length of Jesus' Time in the Tomb Proves He Was the Messiah - Jesus gave one sign that would be proof of His resurrection as our Savior—the amount of time He would spend in the tomb. Jesus stated: "For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth".
Good Friday -- Easter Sunday: It Didn't Happen That Way! - Do you remember when you learned that Santa Claus wasn't real? Guess what? Good Friday and a Sunday resurrection aren't either. Discover the real story from the pages of the Bible itself!
'The Son of Man Will Be Three Days and Three Nights in the Heart of the Earth' - Jesus Christ plainly said He would be entombed for three days and three nights. Can this be reconciled with a "Good Friday" crucifixion and burial and an "Easter Sunday" resurrection, which allows for barely a day and a half in the tomb? Or do the Gospels spell out a surprising, simpler solution that fits perfectly with what Jesus foretold?
All Men Are Created Equal - All men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." Here in one sentence is a summation that God would desire each of us to have the same start in life.
Are We Thriving or Just Coping? - Each daily activity we undertake shapes and molds us in preparation for our part in the awesome future of all mankind.
When I Die Will I Go to Heaven? - A few years ago a Time-magazine poll relvealed that 81% of Americans believe in a heaven where people live forever with God after they die. But do these beliefs square with the Bible?
The Book of Revelation: History and Prophecy - Many people view Revelation, sometimes called the Apocalypse, as a mysterious book of strange symbols and images. Yet is has a clear and definite historical background.
Waiting for the End of the World - A we approach the threshold of a new millinneum, what does the Bible to those who count on the end of the world occurring around New Years Day 2000?
Time and Chance - Many good and bad things occur to people regardless of whether they are good or evil. The Bible refers to the working of "time and chance".
Are We Living in the Time of the End? - If we look into the inspired writings of the Old Testament prophets and Jesus Christ's apostles, we find many prophecies that refer to the time of the end. Should we take them seriously?
What Is the Time of the End? - Ungodly attitudes will prevent the vast majority of humanity from believing God and the biblical warning signs until all havoc breaks loose. Like the people in Noah's time who laughed and mocked his building an ark, the end of this age will come when the overwhelming majority are unprepared.
Duality in Bible Prophecy - We must carefully examine the context of prophecies to understand their meaning and discern whether the prophecy seems incomplete after its first fulfillment. It is equally important to avoid reading duality into passages that do not support such interpretation.
Apocalyptic Prophecy - the End of Time? - Or is it the end of the beginning? The popular media portrays apocalyptic prophecy in an overtly negative light. Is this the whole story of God's wonderful plan for restoring peace to the earth?
In the Aftermath of Katrina: What Can We Learn? - Another major hurricane has slammed into the United States. The devastation has shut down cities and left hundreds of thousands homeless. Is there a spiritual lesson to learn from this tragedy?
How Is the Work of the Church Supported? - Christ has commissioned His church to carry on the work He started. God's tithe funds that effort. As Christians, we are called to be coworkers with Christ.
The Right Use of Money - . The Bible gives directions and principles about the way we should use our financial resources.
Tithing - Tithing is a way of honoring God with our substance and is a means of serving Him in the preaching of the gospel, the care of the Church, attending the festivals and helping the needy
Why Tithe in Today's World? - Does tithing teach timeless principles and lessons even in today's modern world? You need to understand God's perspective on this vital issue.
How Is the Work of the Church Supported? - Christ has commissioned His church to carry on the work He started. God's tithe funds that effort. As Christians, we are called to be coworkers with Christ.
How Does God Expect His Work to Be Financed Today? - What is the biblical method of funding the preaching and publishing of the gospel of the Kingdom? Let's examine the Scriptures to discover the answer.
Tithing and the Priesthood - We still have a High Priest—Jesus Christ. Did the law of tithing pass away? No, it did not originate with the codification of the law at Mt. Sinai and it did not end with Christ's crucifixion and subsequent resurrection.
What Does Jesus Want From You? - If you believe Jesus truly was the Son of God, do you know what He wants you to do? And what He wants to do for you?
Tithing - Tithing is a way of honoring God with our substance and is a means of serving Him in the preaching of the gospel, the care of the Church, attending the festivals and helping the needy
Alarming Facts About Smoking Addiction - A study conducted by Dr. Joseph Di Franza of the University of Massachusetts Medical School and an international team of researchers showed how dangerously addictive tobacco can be.
Breaking Free from Addictions - The curse of addictions takes an enormous toll on people and society as a whole. Addictions take many forms and often are very destructive. How can a person break free?
Are You Dying to Smoke? - What effect does the use of tobacco in movies have on viewers? The answer is . . .
Puff, Puff...Cough, Cough! - "Smoke! Smoke! Smoke that cigarette. Puff! Puff! Puff—and if you smoke yourself to death, ...
America's Values War - The war on terrorism, uncertainty, in the economy, worries over unemployment. In recent months, people have begun to reconsider some of the values they thought archaic not that long ago-values like courage and personal sacrifice for the good of others.
The New Intolerance - One state allowed license plates that read "2Sexy" and "2Hot4U," yet denied a pe rson who wanted to put "Pray" on her plates, claiming it would violate separatio n of church and state. Has political correctness, touted to promote tolerance, a ctually created a new intolerance toward Christianity?
The Intolerance of the Tolerant - Traditional tolerance is a godly virtue, but subtly the concept has been redefined today. When respectfully standing up for godly values is branded "intolerance" -- which is seen as the worst of evils today -- then something has gone sorely wrong.
A Word Not Spoken - In our relationships with friends and family, we are often concerned with saying exactly the right thing at the right time. However, in a difficult situation sometimes the best thing to say is nothing at all.
Fire, Ready, Aim -- Huh? - It's been said of old that "there are three items that don't come back -- a spent arrow, a spoken word and a lost opportunity." Is this simply a trite phrase of days gone by or is there a powerful lesson for us to consider?
Red Cross Warns of "Super Disasters" - Increasingly natural disasters are raising concerns of man's impact upon the ecological balance. Is there cause for concern? What lies ahead in the next century?
The Label Celt and Celtic Secrecy - Enough history was recorded for us to come to the conclusion that the Celts and Scythians came from a common Israelite heritage. Their migrations had taken them in different directions. In the end, however, these descendants would find themselves together again in Europe.
Would Jesus Keep Easter? - For millions of people Easter Sunday is the most important religious observance of the year. But, if Jesus walked the dusty roads of Galilee today, would he keep Easter?
America's Tragedies: What Would Jesus Christ Say? - Only by surrendering to God - through repentance and living according to His laws - will it be possible for us to gain victory over death and participate in the coming era when horrors such as Sept 11 will never again be repeated.
America's Tragedies: What Would Jesus Christ Say? - Only by surrendering to God - through repentance and living according to His laws - will it be possible for us to gain victory over death and participate in the coming era when horrors such as Sept 11 will never again be repeated.
Where was God? - If God is all powerful and all knowing, the source of all that is good and kind and right, how could He allow evil human beings to snuff out the lives of people who have done them no harm? Why