The Mediterranean Union: Another Roman Empire? - A media circus was in high gear as U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama was greeted in the Middle East and Europe as a political superstar in late July 2008. But a potentially far more important development in that part of the world the week before garnered little attention.
Why Paul Used the Term 'the Whole Law' in Galatians 5:3 - Paul's point in Galatians about being "a debtor to keep the whole law" is in the context of wanting to impose circumcision on the Galatians. Their reasoning implied that at least some of the symbolic aspects of the law would be required of the gentiles.
Did Paul's Words to the Galatians Contradict His Actions? - If in Galatians 4:9-10 Paul was attempting to condemn Sabbath-keeping as bondage, his actions as recorded in the book of Acts show that he was either very confused or very hypocritical.
Was the Sabbath Changed in the New Testament? - If the Sabbath, or any part of God's law, were abolished or changed in the early New Testament Church, there should be clear evidence of such an alteration in New Testament writings.
Grasping the Vastness of Our Universe - Robert Jastrow, a former head of NASA's Goddard Center, once used a clever comparison to help us grasp the immensity of the universe.
Gambling: Why It's a Bet Nobody Wins - Compulsive gambling can and does destroy lives just like drug addiction and alcoholism. It is just one more sign of the moral decline currently gripping many nations.
The Growing Menace of Gambling - Compulsive gambling can and does destroy lives just like drug addiction and alcoholism. It is just one more sign of the moral decline currently gripping our Anglo-Saxon nations.
The Growing Menace of Gambling - Compulsive gambling can and does destroy lives just like drug addiction and alcoholism. It is just one more sign of the moral decline currently gripping our Anglo-Saxon nations.
The Good and Bad of Gaming - Computer games are a waste of time! They are violent and ruin relationships. No, computer games are good! They help develop hand-eye coordination and online games help build relationships with others. Who's right?
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."
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 would He allow such things?
UN's Millennium Goals: How Do They Compare to God's? - In 2000 the United Nations established "Millennium Development Goals" to eliminate extreme poverty and hunger; reduce disease, child mortality and malnutrition; and to improve education, personal incomes and opportunities, housing and sanitation worldwide by the year 2015. All 191 UN member states have pledged to meet these goals. While admirable aspirations, how do they compare to what God promises for the future?
God's Plan to End Evil and Suffering - Is God blind to evil and human suffering? Why doesn't He intervene to put a stop to it? Or could it be that it's we who are blind to what God is doing and that humankind must learn some major lessons before He puts an end to evil?
Seeing Through the Trees - One man in the jungle, working with a plan that involves trees, monkeys, bugs, roots and vines. Not too close to the trees to truly see the forest; and beyond the forest to future generations.
The Alpha and the Omega and Eternity - Why do seemingly civilized people seethe with unreasonable hatred? America wastes its time and energy to try to understand why it is hated. What does the truth mean to you?
Intifada of the Crossings - Tiny, but forever pivotal to world politics, Israel is struggling with a new intifada, a concerted attack on all the Gaza crossings and one in particular the crossing at Rafah. The strategic importance of "crossings" is identified in Bible prophecy, only by another name.
Same-Sex Marriage: Does It Meet With God's Approval? - The gay agenda is steadily gaining ground in Western nations, with same-sex marriage finding acceptance. But what does the Bible say -- and why? And what's at the root of same-sex attraction?
"Civil Unions": The Genesis of Untold Controversy - Canada, the European Union and the small state of Vermont have all introduced laws that seek to rewrite social mores and customs about marriage. Some believe the proposed revisions correct wrongs and promote justice; but, to the contrary, they will engender controversy without end.
Controversies Concerning Homosexuality Hound the Anglican Community - Gay issues are troubling the Church of England and its Episcopal community in America. Its evangelical wing takes issue with liberal clergy who promote acceptance of openly gay priests. What is the true biblical approach?
Hope for Homosexuals - There are many studies that show many men and women do come out of homosexuality. We see more and more of the evidence, more and more of those studies; and if the person is highly motivated there is a very good chance that he or she can come out of homosexuality.
Can Israel Survive? - Israel is geographically tiny, especially when measured against its massive impact on the world. Yet it remains the unceasing target of hostile criticism, with some countries openly threatening its extinction. Only 60 years old, Israel's survival remains at stake today. What does Scripture say?
Retreat From Gaza - Israel has completed its pullout from Gaza, a piece of territory it has controlled since 1967. Is this the start of a final road to peace between the Palestinians and the Israelis? Or will it be a futile gesture that leaves Israel vulnerable to further terrorist attacks?
Intifada of the Crossings - Tiny, but forever pivotal to world politics, Israel is struggling with a new intifada, a concerted attack on all the Gaza crossings and one in particular the crossing at Rafah. The strategic importance of "crossings" is identified in Bible prophecy, only by another name.
Abbas and Sharon: Showdown Over Jerusalem - How to resolve the opposing claims over the world's most controversial city, Jerusalem, was to be part of the international efforts to bring peace to the Middle East this year. The Sharon administration yanked it out of the end of the "Roadmap for Peace" and is making it an issue now. Barely established in office, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has to get help from the Bush administration, or else Abbas' ability to lead - and his ability to make peace - will end before it begins.
Europe's Growing Energy Worries - To what extent should the European Union be dependent on foreign sources of energy? That question is a matter of growing concern for EU leaders. Case in point: Natural gas.
New Military Might in the Middle East - Nations that initially formed a common market now move to form a common military. It's a logical and necessary step. But what effect will it have on its members and the rest of the world?
A Downsized Lifestyle Is Coming - Will You Make the Adjustment? - Our world is changing in ways we never considered. The dominance that affluent nations have enjoyed is about to end. Will peoples of the rich world downsize their lifestyle? Will people who have rarely if ever had to "tighten their belts" be able to make the painful change?
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.
Financial Security and Peace of Mind - God promises material blessings to those who obey Him and acknowledge Him with their wealth (Proverbs 3:1, 9-10). Through the prophet Malachi God warned that withholding His tithe amounts to robbing Him, but He will bless those who tithe (Malachi 3:7-12).
The Feast of Prosperity - Our world is wracked by poverty,injustice and turmoil. But a little known biblical festival reveals how a new world of peace and prosperity will dawn.
Give and Forget - We've heard we should "forgive and forget." But we also need to learn to give and forget.
Earth's Age: Does Genesis 1 Indicate a Time Interval? - On the basis of the evidence,there is far more reason to translate Gen. 1:2 as 'But the earth had become a ruin and a desolation, etc.' than there is for any of the conventional translations in our modern versions"
Genesis 1 and the Days of Creation - Did you know that no piece of ancient history is more scientifically grounded than the book of Genesis, including its description of the 24-hour days of creation?
The Greek Concept of Creation - Origen and Augustine began to interpret much of the book of Genesis as allegory. They viewed the Genesis account as filled with symbolic fictional figures representing truth, human conduct or experience.
The Testimony of the New Testament - Many are surprised to learn that the Bible reveals Christ as the Creator! More than once the apostle Paul explained to early Christians that God had created all things by Jesus Christ (Ephesians 3:9; Colossians 1:16). Hebrews 1:2 tells us that God "has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, . . . through whom also He made the worlds."
Humanity - Humanity was created with a truly amazing potenial. The future of humanity is to be children in the family of God.
Joseph: Faithfulness Brings Blessing - If you believe and follow God as Joseph did He can make the worst situation the best thing that could happen to you.
Genesis 1 and the Days of Creation - Did you know that no piece of ancient history is more scientifically grounded than the book of Genesis, including its description of the 24-hour days of creation? The evidence is astonishingly clear!
Was Noah's Flood Universal? - Was the Flood of Genesis universal, covering all the earth? Or was it merely a regional inundation engulfing only a small area ? This question has troubled many readers of the Genesis story. How can we discover the truth?
The Alpha and the Omega and Eternity - Why do seemingly civilized people seethe with unreasonable hatred? America wastes its time and energy to try to understand why it is hated. What does the truth mean to you?
Archaeology and Genesis: What Does the Record Show? - Is the Bible historically accurate? Some believe that it is little more than myth. Archaeological discoveries, however, verify many details of the biblical accounts.
Archaeology and Genesis: What Does the Record Show? - Is the Bible historically accurate? Some believe that it is little more than myth. Archaeological discoveries, however, verify many details of the biblical accounts.
Where Will the Genetics Revolution Lead? - This century has seen some astounding scientific and technological advancement.Developments continue to amaze. But is all such advancement a good thing?
Worldwide Food Crisis - You have likely heard of the global food crisis. You might even have already encountered rationing of goods you wanted to buy! What you haven't heard is the unique perspective that this article will give you.
Myths of Evolution - Part 2 - Some may be shocked to find that long-heralded "proofs" of evolution are anything but. Here we examine four widely used examples to learn what the evidence really shows.
Where Will the Genetics Revolution Lead? - This century has seen some astounding scientific and technological advancement.Developments continue to amaze. But is all such advancement a good thing?
The Ominous GNR Revolution - The Biotech Age brings new and terrifying scenarios. How might the explosion of knowledge of genetics, nanotechnology and robotics (GNR) change our world?
'I Hope We've Learned Our Lesson ...' - "One day we were neighbors, and the next day the massacre began." That's how the survivor of a tribal massacre described the shocking turn of events that led to the murder of 18 of her family members. Her tragic story cuts to the heart of humanity's inability to find lasting peace
Genocide Survivor: "I Hope We've Learned Our Lesson..." - "One day we were neighbors, and the next day the massacre began." That's how the survivor of a tribal massacre described the shocking turn of events that led to the murder of 18 of her family members. Her tragic story cuts to the heart of humanity's inability to find lasting peace…
Facing the Pain and Suffering - The question is one for the ages and for all peoples who have suffered. Why did 6 million Jews die in the Holocaust?
The World Stood by as Hundreds of Thousands Died in Darfur - In spite of some pressure from the United Nations, the United States, the European Union and the African Union, the murdering in Darfur and of refugees from there has continued unabated.
Questions and Answers - Jan/Mar 2006 - The following questions and answers represent issues of interest to young people who want sound biblical advice.
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 the New Testament Abolish Meat Distinctions - Some people believe that certain New Testament scriptures remove all distinctions between clean and unclean meats. But what do these passages really say?
Biblical Holy Days in the New Testament - Paul's ministry included observing the Holy Days with the Church. In defending the gospel he preached, Paul said he brought the same message the other apostles taught.
Was the Sabbath Changed in the New Testament? - If the Sabbath, or any part of God's law, were abolished or changed in the early New Testament Church, there should be clear evidence of such an alteration in New Testament writings.
The Fruit of the Spirit - Conversion should produce the fruits of the Spirit: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control".
Gentleness: The Mark of a Christian - Gentleness, so sadly lacking in this world, should be evident in the life of a Christian. What is gentleness, and how can it be a part of your life?
Out-of-Place Fossils - In spite of much wishful thinking on the part of evolutionists, the fossil record does not and cannot be made to agree with Darwinism.
Out-of-Place Fossils - In spite of much wishful thinking on the part of evolutionists, the fossil record does not and cannot be made to agree with Darwinism.
Charles Darwin: Evolution of a Man and His Ideas - Almost 150 years have passed since the publication of Charles Darwin's The Origin of Species launched a theological, philosophical and scientific revolution. Nearly everyone knows about the theory of evolution, but few know the man and motives behind it.
Noah's Flood: Serious Problems With Dating Methods - Why do geologists so frequently fail to understand that the biblical Flood was the force that created some geologic formations? One important answer lies in the way they date these formations.
Who Will Lead the New Europe? - Few qualities in human affairs are more important than competent, capable leadership. With the May 1 addition of 10 nations joining the European Union, which nation or nations will exercise the most control, for good or bad? Who will govern Europe at the close of this age of man?
Should the West Encourage German Military Expansion? - Adverse security circumstances have caused the United States, the United Kingdom and other Western countries to pressure Germany into taking a more active military role in Afghanistan and other theaters of conflict. But what are the potential consequences from a biblical/historical perspective?
Should the West Encourage German Military Expansion? - Adverse security circumstances have caused the United States, the United Kingdom and other Western countries to pressure Germany into taking a more active military role in Afghanistan and other theaters of conflict. But what are the potential consequences from a biblical/historical perspective?
What Is Germany's Destiny? - For far too many German citizens, reunification in 1990 has meant 15 years of economic downturn, increasing unemployment and general deprivation. But encouraging signs of recovery are gradually beginning to emerge in the German economy. Prophetically speaking, what does reunification mean in the long run?
Five Trends to Watch in Europe - From Santa Maria de Feira, Portugal, site of the latest major meeting of the European Commission, a report on what's ahead.
The World's Number One Exporting Nation - The United States owes its historical dominance to being the world's biggest exporting nation. It no longer holds that position. The country that does is set to play a more dominant role in world affairs.
Germany's Record Unemployment and Political Change - Reaching the 5 million unemployed mark had an immediate impact on Germany's national confidence. In a poll taken a couple of days after the unemployment figures were released, 85 percent of the Germans surveyed expressed concern for their personal future.
From Kosovo to Conflict? - At the end of April, four European countries agreed on the formation of a joint military structure. Did NATO's successful intervention in Kosovo lay the seeds for a challenger to its position?
Should the West Encourage German Military Expansion? - Adverse security circumstances have caused the United States, the United Kingdom and other Western countries to pressure Germany into taking a more active military role in Afghanistan and other theaters of conflict. But what are the potential consequences from a biblical/historical perspective?
Fascism Returns to Europe - Today, no extremist party calls itself fascist, but whatever the name, fascism is still the game.
Is the EU an Attempt to Revive the Holy Roman Empire? - Exactly two centuries after the fall of the Holy Roman Empire—the First Reich of the German Nation—the European Union seems set to revive this ancient institution.
Ten Years After the Wall Came Tumbling Down - How is Germany faring a decade after the Berlin Wall? Is the eastern half better off? Is the western half pleased with the results of the added costs of unification? What will fully solidify this country?
Germany's Rising Economic and Political Power - Germany, not the United States, is the world's biggest single exporting nation. The German-dominated European Union is the world's biggest single market. Additionally, the German-based euro is increasingly the international currency of choice. Few realize how significant these economic factors are.
Reflections From Rotunda - Conversations with German citizens show the diversity of feelings attached to the newly reconstructed German capital - a diversity that reflects different age groups, as well as an East vs. West mentality within the unified German state.
What Is Germany's Destiny? - For far too many German citizens, reunification in 1990 has meant 15 years of economic downturn, increasing unemployment and general deprivation. But encouraging signs of recovery are gradually beginning to emerge in the German economy. Prophetically speaking, what does reunification mean in the long run?
From Berlin to Brussels - Some Germans are questioning whether their government is still a parliamentary democracy. Their underlying concerns apply throughout the evolving EU, as national sovereignty is subtly transferred to a central authority.
Europe Moves Closer to Fulfilling Its Grand Design - Europe continues its march toward its destiny, moving rapidly toward a time of transition that will surprise and shake the entire world. How prepared are you for the changes that are coming?
You're Never Too Young to Serve! - "You're too young..." Most teens hear these words quite often. "You're too young too drive," "You're too young to drink," "You're to young to have a job,"etc. But there is one thing that a young person is never too young to do -- serve!
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.
She Used to Be Our Queen, Too... - When Elizabeth II ascended the throne 50 years ago in 1952, Britian's African possessions were larger than the entire United States of America.
Dictatorships: Why Are They So Common? - As the U.S. and Britain defied much of world opinion to overthrow an entrenched dictator in Iraq, a question logically arose: Why is it that so many countries seem to naturally embrace dictatorship?
The Biblical Solution for Africa's Biggest Crisis - At the recent International AIDS Conference held in Bangkok, Thailand, delegates repeatedly condemned abstinence programs. The African continent has been particularly devastated by AIDS. Interestingly, abstinence programs are the only ones that are really working there.
"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 . . ."
What's Behind the Growing Food Crisis? - Growing shortages around the world are driving up the price of food. For hundreds of millions this could lead to hunger or starvation. What's behind the global food crisis, and how can it be resolved?
Reversal of Fortune for Two African Countries - Once one of the most unstable of African countries, Ghana is now a model of stability and success. What turned Ghana around in the past 20 years? What lessons are there in its success story for the other struggling African nations?
Ghana's Election Signifies Progress for Africa - In Ukraine and Iraq there are problems with the electoral process. But in Ghana's recent election, the Fourth Republic seems to be working. Why does democracy work in some countries but not in others?
A Study in Contrasts - Over a month after the voting, the results of the Zimbabwe presidential election still have not been officially announced. The autocratic president of Zimbabwe, who has been in power for almost three decades since the fall of Rhodesia, is clearly reluctant to hand over power. The current government has turned the breadbasket of Africa into an economic disaster with the highest inflation rate in the world. It raises the question: Why did Rhodesia work when Zimbabwe doesn't?
Ghana at 50 - Fifty years ago, on March 6, 1957, Ghana became the first independent black African nation. Expectations were high. What followed was decades of corruption, political instability and economic collapse. Today Ghana is finally on the road to recovery.
African Debt—Is Wiping the Slate Clean a Good Idea? - Britain's finance minister, Gordon Brown, is proposing that the G7 countries cancel Africa's debts to Western banks. Will this move give Africa the economic boost it needs to finally get off the ground?
Keep Your Eye on Gibraltar! - The Rock is back in the news. But why has this small narrow peninsula been such a bone of contention between Britain and Spain for nearly 300 years? Clearly the current promise of a solution is not good news to everyone involved.
The Story of Jesus Christ: Where Do You Fit? - The making, content and release of the new movie The Passion of the Christ has been surrounded by controversy. Regrettably, this takes away from a central question -- which is, where do we personally fit in the story?
From Father Knows Best to "No Father Is Best:" - The American Psychological Association published an article asserting that fathers are not essential in the healthy development of children! In fact, they claim, fathers do more harm than good!
The Girl Next Door - A study by San Diego State University shows a shocking cultural shift in the attitudes and practices of teen girls regarding sex. What should you do to help your teens avoid the pain and suffering this could bring?
The Girl Next Door - A study by San Diego State University shows a shocking cultural shift in the attitudes and practices of teen girls regarding sex. What should you do to help your teens avoid the pain and suffering this could bring?
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.
How Strong Is Your Tea Bag? - It's been said, "You never know how strong a tea bag is until you put it in hot water." On Sept. 11, 2001, America came to that boiling point.
A Right Example Heard Around the World - Jesus Christ surprised His disciples -- and possibly many of us as well -- by praising a seemingly wasteful act. Why did He put such emphasis on it?
Give and Forget - We've heard we should "forgive and forget." But we also need to learn to give and forget.
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.
A Right Example Heard Around the World - Jesus Christ surprised His disciples -- and possibly many of us as well -- by praising a seemingly wasteful act. Why did He put such emphasis on it?
Introduction - The Holy Bible offers proven financial advice and economic guidelines. The book of Proverbs alone reveals much about how to manage your personal finances.
Are We on the Threshold of a New Age? - As we enter the year 2000, what can we expect? Will we see a man-made utopia, or a time of great crisis? Or will we see something entirely different and unexpected on the world scene-the dawn of a new age? Only the Bible can give us the right answer.
Making Sense of a Fragmenting World - Terrorist alerts...the "axis of evil"...shifting geopolitical alliances. How can we make sense of it all?
A Blueprint for Prosperity - No one has designed an economic system capable of eliminating poverty among nations.
Global Economics: From Kosovo to McDonalds - When all is said and done, it all goes back to money. The world has entered a new stage of homogenization never before seen.
'This Generation Will Not Pass' - Once all the prophesied world conditions are present, they will not continue indefinitely. World conditions will be so threatening that they cannot continue indefinitely or we would be in danger of extinction.
Which Way Europe? - Two voting sessions within a few weeks of each other could set the direction for future events within Europe. The first was the vote for the new pope, Benedict XVI. The second is the French referendum on the EU constitution. Both could have far-reaching implications for the Continent and the world.
The Center of God's New Global Village - God's temple will stand in the center of God's global village in Jerusalem. This will provide the seat for a civilization centered on the universal principles and laws of Almighty God.
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?
Who Is My Neighbor? - Growing reality of globalization is pushing us together with people we have never dealt with before.
Europe Moves Closer to Grand Design - Europe takes another step in the direction of its destiny. The world is moving rapidly toward a time of transition. Is your life keeping pace?
The Message of Mitch - A tragic example of the poor's vulnerability to natural disasters.
Globalization Reviews - Reviews of The Lexus and the Olive Tree and The Great Betrayal.
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.
Jesus Was Sent by the Father - The preexistent Word, who later became Christ, was sent to earth by the Father in heaven. The Gospel of John bears record to this truth many times.
The Hope of Glory - The Olympic Games represent a striving for excellence in athletic achievement. Paul used them to illustrate another great contest.
What You See Is What You Will Receive - Obviously, we don't yet have glorified bodies, but we have been invited to begin experiencing God's glory in our lives.
Hatred Rising - Why do seemingly civilized people seethe with unreasonable hatred? America wastes its time and energy to try to understand why it is hated. What does the truth mean to you?
Was the Sabbath Changed in the New Testament? - If the Sabbath, or any part of God's law, were abolished or changed in the early New Testament Church, there should be clear evidence of such an alteration in New Testament writings.
The Moses Code: New Truth or Recycled Deception? - The new book and DVD The Moses Code promises the power to transform the world through a secret method supposedly revealed to Moses. But what's the story behind this secret?
Jesus Christ: Divine Savior or Gnostic Nobody! - "Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God" (1 John 4:2-3)
Dare to Dream - Making a list of our dreams is an important first step in bringing dreams to reality. Putting it down in black and white takes an idea out of the realm of the abstract into the world of the concrete and specific. It leads one closer to commitment.
Success's Secret Ingredient - The critical factor that should be utmost in any goal-setting program we would follow: seek what is good.
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.
Are You Lurking or Living? - "If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put the foundations under them." — Henry David Thoreau, Walden
One Foot at a Time - Tom Whittaker's example of climbing Everest with one foot.
The Abortion Quagmire: Who Will Speak for the Children? - Since the Roe vs. Wade Supreme Court decision in 1973, the abortion issue in the United States has been a political hot potato polarized into two campes stamped pro-choice and pro-life.
Is God Pro-Life or Pro-Choice? - Confusion and misunderstandings often occur over definitions of words and terms. What does pro-life mean? What does pro-choice mean?
Planning Your Career -- Part 1 - It has been said that those who fail to plan, plan to fail. As a young person, now is the time to give special attention to this important part of your life.
Why Does God Allow Disasters? - The Indian Ocean tsunami stunned people the world over. How can we make sense of this horror? Does God's Word give us any guidance?
Natural Disasters: A Biblical Perspective - Points we should keep in mind concerning the biblical perspective on tragedies, regardless of their scale or circumstances.
Who'll Stop the Rain? - Large-scale disasters highlight man's inability to control the environment or to prevent catastrophes that can bring suffering to thousands. The question "Where is God when people suffer?" needs a satisfying answer. Could the answer be found in a source many want to deny?
What Do You Mean, Under God? - You've heard the controversy about "under God" and that the vast majority of Americans are in no mood to even consider removing these words from the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance. But is the United States a nation under God? The words are simple enough, but have you thought about their meaning? What do they mean to God?
Why Does Evil Exist? - Why Does Evil Exist? In the wake of the New York and Washington D.C., suicide bombings, we need to find a plain answer to this question.
What's So Special About Families? - Some suggest a family should be defined as any group living together in the same household. Is this valid? Before we throw away our traditional view, perhaps we should consider what we would lose in the process.
Can Halloween Be Christianized? - Finding the shadows of the evil customs of Halloween abhorant, many Christians have sought to sanitize the holiday by integrating religious symbols with which they are more familiar and comfortable.
God's Prophetic Plan for the Nations - God is and always has been in overall control. He knows exactly where specific ethnic groups live and what they are now doing.
The Prayer God Will Hear - When anyone prays to God He is well aware of the words that are spoken. But does He really consider all the requests that are directed to Him?
Whose Prayers Does God Hear? - While Americans mourned and prayed for God's comfort and strength, passionate religious extremists offered prayers of thanks for what they saw as a great victory. Whose prayers does God hear?
Darwinism in the Classroom - When you believe God created the heavens and earth, what strategies can you use when confronted with Charles Darwin's theory of evolution?
The Missing Dimension in Homeland Security - Homeland security instantly became the #1 priority of the Bush administration on Sept. 11, 2001. With the creation of the massive Homeland Security Department, concerns of safekeeping continue to be the primary focus of the American government. Are you aware of national security's most important aspect? The lack of this element immediately compromises the safety of any country.
God's Guide to Sex - Everyone knows about the similarities between animal and human sexuality, but what about the differences? And what are the implications of those differences?
Why a Loving God Allows Suffering - Most people fail to recognize that God doesn't have to directly intervene every time we sin; the spiritual laws He set in motion are self-enforcing, bringing their own punishment when we break them.
How God Sees Suffering - Suffering is only temporary, not eternal. After its purpose has been accomplished, God will erase it forever.
Is God Indifferent to Human Suffering? - If God is all-powerful, He could easily prevent disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis, tornadoes, floods, droughts and volcanic eruptions. But He lets them happen. Why?
A God Not Bound By Space and Time - If there is a God, why don't we see, hear or touch Him? It's a simple and fair question. But the answer defies human logic, reasoning and experience.
Drought Conditions Reach Crisis Levels - Spreading drought in large portions of the U.S. breadbasket brings a comparison to dust-bowl conditions of the 1930s. What can be learned?
Disastrous Weather - Acts of God? - Permitting God into the weather picture isn't fashionable. Nor do weather forecasters admit a divine hand might be at work behind the scenes.
Problems, Politics and Prophecy About Water - "Water, water everywhere . . ."?; Not so! The worldwide crisis of water shortages continues to mount. Some have ideas that may alleviate the problem, if enough nations and individuals cooperate. What about God? Is He causing today's problems? Will He change the climate in the future?
Worldwide Weather Chaos: What Does It Mean? - Devastating floods and summer storms have bombarded parts of Europe, Asia and America. Simultaneously, severe droughts afflict several areas of the globe. What does the Bible tell us about the significance of these natural disasters?
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.
The Missing Father - He didn't want to be gone from our lives, but God's Word is clear: If He is distant from us, it is because we—all humanity—left Him.
What Is Our Greatest Priority? - Establishing, developing and maintaining that personal relationship with the true and living God is the most important commitment we can ever make.
Darwinism in the Classroom - When you believe God created the heavens and earth, what strategies can you use when confronted with Charles Darwin's theory of evolution?
God: Ruler of the Universe - Although the Bible identifies Satan as the "prince of the power of the air" and the ruler of this world, God maintains overall control as "Lord of heaven and earth" (Matthew 11:25). He gives the devil considerable latitude in what he does, but God retains the right and power to intervene.
Financial Security and Peace of Mind - God promises material blessings to those who obey Him and acknowledge Him with their wealth (Proverbs 3:1, 9-10). Through the prophet Malachi God warned that withholding His tithe amounts to robbing Him, but He will bless those who tithe (Malachi 3:7-12).
The Suitcase - I was 4 when I had to leave my home with a suitcase packed with all my possessions. Throughout the painful journey, someone was there to help me through.
Did a Good God Create an Evil World? - Is it possible to completely expunge all evil from the world? It is not only possible, it will be done! The Bible reveals how God will eventually banish evil from existence!
Considering the Existence of God - If God does exist, and in consequence we are called to another life when this one ends . . . our life then becomes a preparation for eternity.
Drought Conditions Reach Crisis Levels - Spreading drought in large portions of the U.S. breadbasket brings a comparison to dust-bowl conditions of the 1930s. What can be learned?
Consequences of Ideas - Nothing has a more direct impact on our moral choices than whether we believe in God. The moral choices we make determine the outcome of our lives and, collectively, of society.
Who Was Jesus? - The Logos [Word] was not only with God in the beginning, but was God (John 1:1), and it was this Logos who became flesh and is identified with Christ.
The God Family - The Kingdom of God ultimately denotes a level of existence to which human beings may be raised through a transformation from flesh to spirit.
`The LORD Our God Is One' - it is clear that God is a plurality of Beings -- a plurality in unity. In other words, God the Father and Jesus the Son form a family perfect in its unity.
Understanding God Through Christ - the resemblance between the Father and the Son must be strong in more ways than we could humanly imagine. Still, They are two distinctly separate Beings who continually plan and confer with each other.
God the Father - What does the Bible say about who God the Father is?
Who Is the Center of Our Worship? - Traditional Christianity claims to focus its worship on Jesus Christ. But didn't Jesus ChristHimself direct our attention, including even our prayers, to God the Father?
Do You Know Your Dad? - A physical father is a type of our spiritual Father. How can we come to understand our spiritual Father better?
Much More Than a Man - Jesus claimed to be God -- and from the record was able to support that claim. How was Jesus God? If Jesus was God, then who was the Father He spoke of so often? How could Jesus and the Father both be God at the same time?
The God Family - The Kingdom of God ultimately denotes a level of existence to which human beings may be raised through a transformation from flesh to spirit.
Much More Than a Man - Jesus claimed to be God -- and from the record was able to support that claim. How was Jesus God? If Jesus was God, then who was the Father He spoke of so often? How could Jesus and the Father both be God at the same time?
God: Ruler of the Universe - Although the Bible identifies Satan as the "prince of the power of the air" and the ruler of this world, God maintains overall control as "Lord of heaven and earth" (Matthew 11:25). He gives the devil considerable latitude in what he does, but God retains the right and power to intervene.
Transforming Your Life - Table of Contents - If you believe God exists and the Bible is His Word, are you shaping your own life according to that knowledge? Have you asked yourself: Where is my life going? Am I a part of the solution to this world's problems? Or am I a part of the problems?
God's Church Welcomes You - God's fellowship is reserved for those who strive to obey God and have faith in Him and His promises.
Who Is God Calling? - God must first call, or invite, us to enter into a relationship with Him. He does this by opening our minds to a basic understanding of the Scriptures and our need to repent.
How Important Are Our Choices? - Jesus explains that people make different choices when they hear God's Word explained to them.
Are Your Children Called? - It may surprise some to learn that God is not calling everyone in this present age . Is he calling your children?
Join the Few, the Called, the Chosen - The great moral code of the universe reveals that God is preparing His team for leadership of the world. Here's how to be part of the team.
Does God Keep His Word? - By fulfilling His promises to all of the tribes of Israel, God will also, at the return of Christ, prove to scoffers and doubters that He is trustworthy. He will demonstrate to all nations that He stands behind every word He has ever spoken through His prophets.
Does Bible Prophecy Matter? - The biblical record of prophecy is long and astoundingly accurate. No human seer could have accurately predicted the remarkable rise and fall of kingdoms, leaders and peoples that we find in the Bible.
Was God's Law Abolished in the New Testament? - "Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, 'I know Him,' and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him" (1 John 2:3, 4).
Recognizing the Church - With so many churches professing Christianity while teaching widely divergent doctrines, how can we recognize the Church? What are the hallmarks of God's Church? What does it teach? What does it do?
Love is the Basis of God's Relationship - God's Word reveals that He listens to us and answers our requests according to His will and our best interests. He wants us to respond to His love.
Should You Attend Church? - Many, perhaps even you, have become disillusioned with churches and religious leaders. They wonder what they should do and where they should turn. What does God say?
The Church: Help for Greater Growth - Just exactly what is the Church? What is its purpose? Why do you need it? The Church that Jesus Christ founded and directs can be a priceless tool for aiding personal growth.
The Church of God Today - The church of God today keeps God's commandments and holds fast to all that Jesus taught.
Was God's Law Abolished in the New Testament? - "Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, 'I know Him,' and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him" (1 John 2:3, 4).
What Is Our Greatest Priority? - Establishing, developing and maintaining that personal relationship with the true and living God is the most important commitment we can ever make.
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.
The Sovereignty of God - The reason God has not stopped human suffering and anguish on the earth is not because He lacks control over what human beings do.
The Personal Nature of God - Both the Apostle John and the Apostle Paul describe two individual divine Beings, with Jesus being subject to God the Father.
Coming: An End to Suffering - Why is the world awash in suffering? How did the world come to be in such sad shape? Most important,what will bring the end to human misery?
Faith, Choice and Commitment - God wants us to put obedience to Him and seeking His righteousness and His Kingdom ahead of everything else in this life.
God's Challenge to You - During the great age of exploration, visionary men sailed uncharted waters and discovered new lands. Today God issues a great challenge to us. Are you willing to take Him up on His challenge to you?
Does Satan Exist? - If you did an Internet search using the phrases "Does God exist?" and "Does Satan exist?," what would you expect to find? What level of interest and research is there, do you suppose, for those two crucial questions?
How do You Think? - Our heartfelt emotions are an important part of being human, but these feelings are incomplete as a method of making judgements when not guided by godly principles.
The God Debate - Can atheistics "prove" there is no God?
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.
A Perfect Family - In this issue of The Good News we feature several articles aimed directly at helping you gain that comprehension of what God has planned.
A Long Time From Now in a Galaxy Far, Far Away... - Today's epidemic of divorce and single parenthood affects many people, Christians included. How can you be successful as a Christian single parent?
The Spiritual Significance - An important principle is also revealed here that is continued in marriage and family - that human life is patterned after spiritual, nonphysical, unseen realities. Just as human beings were made in the image of God, marriage and family are patterned after spiritual concepts.
Is Today the Only Day of Salvation? - Paul in no way meant to contradict the many passages in the Bible that show that many others will have an opportunity for salvation in future ages.
Coming: An End to Suffering - Why is the world awash in suffering? How did the world come to be in such sad shape? Most important,what will bring the end to human misery?
What Did the Early Church Believe and Practice? - These are some of the major differences between the Christianity of the time of Christ and the apostles and that commonly practiced today. Look into your Bible to see if your beliefs and practices square with what Jesus Christ and the apostles practiced and taught.
The Festivals of God - Points out the relavance of God's Holy Days to His plan of salvation.
God's Festivals in the New Testament - God's festivals, which began in the Old Testament, are also observed by New Testament Christians. Here are a number of New Testament scriptural references to this fact.
Abraham: God's Friend - Christians are encouraged to walk in the steps of Abraham, the father of the faithful. God called Abraham His friend. In the same way, Christ calls us His friends.
The Most Powerful Friend - You can have a friendship with the God of the universe. He will teach, guide and protect you, if you stay close to Him.
How God Shaped Israel's Future - From Abraham God miraculously formed a nation to illustrate to every other nation the benefits that come from obeying Him and the tragedies that come from disobeying Him. Israel has been an example of both.
Help for Sufferers - The unwillingness of mankind as a whole to believe and obey God is the real reason for a suffering world. But God offers relief from suffering.
God Works in Mysterious Ways - Who would have thought I would have to leave my country to find a church that existed in my own city? This experience took me to Africa and back. And I returned home with two sweet rewards.
When Will God Provide a Mate for You? - Young people often wonder if God will bless them with someone to marry. And they often want to know when. Read this firsthand account of a recently married couple who had the same questions.
Introduction - The Holy Days help us comprehend the master plan - the very purpose - of God, how we truly become His people. Notice this description of our destiny: "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people."
How to Observe God's Holy Days - After we come to realize that the Holy Days are vitally important to mankind and eminently applicable to our modern world, we naturally want to learn more about how to observe them.
Festivals of Hope - When God freed the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, He revealed to them, in addition to the weekly Sabbath, His seven annual festivals. They foreshadow and reveal the basics of His plan of salvation.
Giving An Answer - Giving an answer about how and why I observe the Holydays of God.
Does God Have a Plan for Humanity? - Put another way, does our Creator have a divine purpose for human beings? And does He have a prophetic plan whereby His purpose may be worked out here on earth?
Man in the Image of God - The image of God imparts special meaning, harmony, intelligence and design to human life. To be human is to be created in the image of God. This is the certain testimony of the Bible!
Isn't It About Time You Read the Book? - The Bible makes the remarkable claim of being the inspired Word of God, the divine instruction for mankind. Shouldn't we learn what it has to say?
How Can We Make Life Work? - Some people recognize that living God's way holds great promise "of the life . . . which is to come." Far fewer understand that living a godly life also has benefits in "the life that now is"--that is, our present physical lives.
What's Wrong With Our Human Nature? - We have a natural tendency to resent having our fleshly desires limited by rules, even God's rules. Paul explains: "For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.
Transforming Your Life - Table of Contents - If you believe God exists and the Bible is His Word, are you shaping your own life according to that knowledge? Have you asked yourself: Where is my life going? Am I a part of the solution to this world's problems? Or am I a part of the problems?
Who Is God Calling? - God must first call, or invite, us to enter into a relationship with Him. He does this by opening our minds to a basic understanding of the Scriptures and our need to repent.
Changes in Christian Scholars' Perspective on God's Law - Christian scholars are changing their views of the status of God's laws in New Testament. One cannot help but hope that many others will be encouraged by their example to change their prejudices against obeying the Ten Commandments.
'Thy Kingdom Come!' - Many confusing ideas about God's Kingdom often make it a hazy and distant concept, raising more questions than answers. Is the Kingdom of God in heaven? Is it on earth? Who will be in it? Is it here already, in our hearts? Are you part of it now? Will you be part of it in the future? What will you do there?
Why Paul Used the Term 'the Whole Law' in Galatians 5:3 - Paul's point in Galatians about being "a debtor to keep the whole law" is in the context of wanting to impose circumcision on the Galatians. Their reasoning implied that at least some of the symbolic aspects of the law would be required of the gentiles.
Changes in Christian Scholars' Perspective on God's Law - Christian scholars are changing their views of the status of God's laws in New Testament. One cannot help but hope that many others will be encouraged by their example to change their prejudices against obeying the Ten Commandments.
Man's Natural Hostility Toward God - God's laws call on us to meet a personally demanding standard that few are willing to consider. Man rejects God principally because God's laws embody a morality that is outwardly focused and shows concern for others rather than oneself.
Our Window of Opportunity - In our information age we sadly lack the most vital information of all, the knowledge of God. He wants to reveal it to us, but we must be willing to accept it and do some digging ourselves.
Sin and God's Law - God's law defines His love based upon the two great principles of love toward God and love toward neighbor.
Just What Is Legalism? - It is not legalistic to obey God's laws correctly. To be legalistic is to misuse God's laws in a way never intended.
Was God's Law Abolished in the New Testament? - "Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, 'I know Him,' and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him" (1 John 2:3, 4).
A Royal Law of Love - God's law of love must inspire us to appreciate His wisdom and look to His commandments for our standard of behavior.
Chapter 3: God's Law and the New Covenant - Many assume that, because Jesus Christ instituted the New Covenant, God's laws are thereby made obsolete. They lean on this argument to ignore His commandments. But what does Jesus Himself say?
Must We Obey God's Commandments? - We have a natural tendency to resent having our fleshly desires limited by rules, even God's rules.
What Is Sin? - We are sinners. But how does the Bible define sin? What is it?
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.
God's Test Commandment - God describes the fourth commandment as a "test" command, "Remember the Sabbath to keep it holy". Yet most of Christianity has turned its back on this command.
Profiles of Faith: James: Half Brother of Jesus - James understood that only by obeying God's laws can mankind experience true freedom- freedom from want, sorrow and suffering, from the degrading and painful consequences of sin. He encourages each of us to be a "doer of the law" (James 4:11).
Did Jesus Do Away With the Law? - Did Jesus do away with the commandments of God? Many turn to the Sermon on the Mount to point to "conclusive proof" that Jesus retired the Ten Commandments en masse by fulfi