Building Habits of Prayer and Bible Study - Good communication between God and us is a vital aspect of the godly way of life. God speaks to us through His Word, the Holy Scriptures. We talk to Him through prayer.
The Power of Habits - Sow a thought, reap an action; sow an action, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny. —traditional saying
The Power of Habits - How do we get to the point where we do what we know we should do? Can this really be done? The answer is "Yes!" Here's how.
What Science Tells Us About Habits - The study, published in the November 2004 issue of Psychological Science, suggests that old habits are relatively automatic, while new learning requires control.
Develop Your Spiritual Senses - Many want to avoid sin but don't know where to begin. By understanding the process of how sin occurs, you can better avoid it in your life.
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.
What Your Appearance Says About You - Some people don't think clothes matter or that it makes any difference how they wear their hair. The Bible says differently. Read this article to find out how and why.
God Hasn't Told Me to Leave - "Haiti" can be a state of mind. Life can seem out of control, threatening to overwhelm you. And, right now, all you know is that you want a "one-way ticket" out of despair.
Halloween: a Celebration of Darkness - Why would anyone celebrate a holiday emphasizing the morbid and macabre? Where did such strange customs originate?
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.
A Halloween Story - Following is an imaginary dialogue on the reasons responsible people might wonder whether they should participate in the customs, and don the costums of Halloween.
Halloween: Behind the Mask - Every year, on the evening of Oct. 31, millions of families celebrate a distinctly odd holiday known as Halloween. For your own good, you need to know what lurks behind the mask of Halloween.
Who's Getting Tricked by Halloween? - Why do witches, goblins, jack-o'-lanterns, cobwebs, graveyards and symbols of the occult surround this holiday? You need to know the real story.
Is Halloween Harmless? - Every year at Halloween, well-meaning parents dress their children in grotesque and ghoulish costumes. Is Halloween really harmless? Who and what's behind this bizarre holiday?
Who's Getting Tricked by Halloween? - Why do witches, goblins, jack-o'-lanterns, cobwebs, graveyards and symbols of the occult surround this holiday? You need to know the real story.
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?
After Arafat - A second contentious dispute between Yasir Arafat and a second prime minister over the control of the Palestinian Security Services shows the world what kind of leader Arafat is -- and what the Palestinian Authority will be like when he is gone.
An Incendiary Arc of Instability - Hamas' surprising victory in the Palestinian elections casts a giant shadow over the hoped-for road map to peace. It may even lead to a bloody conflict of massive proportions in the Middle East.
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.
The Ironies Behind the Hampton Court Summit - An EU summit was hosted by the British prime minister at Hampton Court Palace, Henry VIII's home in the 16th century. While Henry severed Britain's tie to Europe, recent British governments have increasingly committed themselves to European unity.
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.
The Feast of Hanukkah: Testimony to Bible Prophecy - The Jewish community worldwide lights candles in celebration of the Hanukkah festival. The dramatic story behind this festival not only shows us God's faithfulness, but also the certain reliability of prophecy!
Does Life Have Greater Meaning and Purpose? - Most people don't have the understanding that God is involved with mankind and that He has a plan for us. To be at peace, human beings must realize what God has in mind for them.
'Some Things Are Better Than Money' - Some Things Are Better Than Money' An unexpected turn of events can sometimes teach us a valuable lesson.
Just for Youth... Do You Choose Happiness? - "You can't roller-skate in a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you've a mind to." lines from old songs sometimes sound out-of-date, but the imagery is interesting. Can we really be happy if we want to?
Do You Choose Happiness? - "You can't roller-skate in a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you've a mind to." lines from old songs sometimes sound out-of-date, but the imagery is interesting. Can we really be happy if we want to?
Joy: Foundation for a Positive Life - Jesus said to His disciples, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full" (John 15:11). That sounds almost too good to be true! How can we experience this fullness of joy?
Man's Endless Quest for Happiness - How can you find real happiness? Many people look for it by acquiring more and more or doing more and more. But that's not where the key to real happiness lies.
The Seven Beatitudes of Revelation - The seven beatitudes of Revelation, make it abundantly clear that God wants to give us His "penny," not for our thoughts, but for our actions. And if we have to wait a while, it's worth it -- because after all, there's a blessing. Seven of them!
When Will Suffering Cease? - In this 'present evil age' (Galatians 1:4) God is allowing human beings to learn important lessons. He wants mankind to know that sin produces horrible consequences and that we have brought much grief on ourselves by rejecting His instructions.
Marriage: Foundation of the Family - Applying God's principles for marriage not only produces happy relationships in this life, it yields greater understanding of godly principles that will last for eternity.
Finding the Path to a Happy Family - God didn't create the family relationship and then leave us to stumble blindly trying to find the best way to make it work. The keys for family happiness and success are revealed in the Scriptures.
What Are the Keys to a Happy Marriage? - Many would have you believe that the marital union is archaic and unnecessary. Yet mankind's Creator designed marriage as the ideal relationship for men and women. What fundamental principles can you practice to build a happy marriage?
Building a Relationship for a Lifetime - How would you like the benefit of more than one thousand years of experience from people who are enjoying fulfilling and happy marriages?
What's Behind the Falling Dollar? - With a barrel of oil near $100 and the dollar recently falling 16 percent against other currencies, Americans need to understand what's behind the falling dollar and what the consequences will be for them.
Syria in the Crosshairs - World opinion is that Syria appears to have gone one step too far in its deadly game of sponsoring terrorism. The assassination of Rafiq Hariri will have far-reaching consequences for Syria, as well as for the entire Middle East.
The Feast of Tabernacles: Jesus Christ Reigns Over All the Earth - God's plan for mankind involves restoration. The Feast of Tabernacles symbolizes the restoration process, which will start with the return of Jesus Christ, pictured by the Feast of Trumpets, and the banishment of Satan, depicted by the Day of Atonement.
Breaking the Spell of Harry Potter - While America wages war in a "just cause" in Afghanistan, audiences are flocking to two current movies dealing with witchcraft and sorcery. How does God view this scene? Can a nation call for God's blessing while it exports witchcraft?
The Feast of Pentecost: The Firstfruits of God's Harvest - Pentecost serves as an annual reminder that our Creator still works miracles, granting His Spirit to the firstfruits of His spiritual harvest, empowering them to carry out His work in this world.
God's Harvest Feasts: His Assurance of Hope for Mankind - Despite the enormous problems facing humanity today, mankind has great hope for the future. Proof of that hope lies in God's harvest celebrations laid out in the Bible.
Why This Death Didn't Count - Examples like this and many more, that can be found through searches of alternative media sources on the Internet - demonstrate that most major media outlets often aren't reporting the full spectrum of the news, but only the news they want you to hear.
God's Feelings About Emotions - Why did God give us such a vast array of emotions? Can our emotions help us develop strong connections with Him and our fellow man?
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?
Asking the Crucial Questions - Evidence of God's existence is available. Let's look at some of the evidence, asking and answering questions so basic to our search for meaning and purpose.
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!
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.
If I Knew Then What I Know Now - God provides an opportunity for a new beginning - not just once, but countless times after that initial start.
The World Beyond Today: What Lies in Store? - "The world has never had it so good." This is how one prominent editor and writer described the current human condition in a recent editorial. Is he right, or should we be looking beyond today's world for a fabulous utopian age long foretold in the pages of the Bible?
What Does the Bible Teach About Fasting? - Fasting - going without food and water- is mentioned often in the Bible. What can we learn from the examples we are given?
Keys to a Healthy, Long Life - Let's consider seven important health principles. Practicing these will help you live a longer and healthier life. These principles are backed by extensive research in the health-care field and by the Bible
The Bible and Science - science has had to capitulate from a stance that it dethroned the Bible as Truth, since newer discoveries prove the Bible's information to be accurate and true.
Follow a Healthy - and Biblical - Diet - The Bible is a reliable source to dietary information. God, the designer of our bodies, knows what we should eat.
Fitness or Fatness: What's Your Plan? - We generally take care of our cars, but most people don't have much of a plan for their health. With so much working against us, how can we choose fitness?
Prepare for a Long, Healthy Life - Most teens assume they will always be healthy, but research shows that modern teens are starting to have serious health problems. What can you do to increase your odds for a lifetime of good health?
A Deadly Epidemic - Between 300,000 and 600,000 Americans will die this year, not from terrorist acts, but from a chronic disease growing so rapidly that it is now officially called an epidemic. You'll be shocked to find out what and how widespread it is.
Prepare for a Long, Healthy Life - Most teens assume they will always be healthy, but research shows that modern teens are starting to have serious health problems. What can you do to increase your odds for a lifetime of good health?
A Telling Event From Jesus' Ministry - Many people assume Jesus Christ abolished the distinctions between clean and unclean meats, even though, as we have seen, no evidence for this exists in the Scriptures.
Eating Choices - Does God Care? - Vertical Thought discusses God's involvement in our eating habits with Hope Egan, author of Holy Cow! Does God Care About What We Eat? In her book, Ms. Egan invites readers to look at their eating habits by examining the meat-related biblical food laws and God's overall design for healthy eating.
All the World Under the New Covenant - The ultimate intent of God's master plan is to change the hearts of all peoples so He can give them His gift of eternal life.
Is the Kingdom Within You? - Rather than telling the Pharisees that the Kingdom of God was something in their hearts, Jesus Christ warned them that they were so spiritually blind they couldn't recognize the very personification of that Kingdom in Him.
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.
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.
Did Jesus Declare All Meats Clean? - Many assume Jesus' statements in Mark 7 did away with the dietary restrictions recorded in the Old Testament. How should we understand Christ's words?
The Heart of a King - People are easily impressed by the way someone looks, but real leadership comes from what's inside a person—from the heart. Consider the shepherd who became king David.
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?
Are There Saved Human Beings in Heaven? - The popular teaching is that when Christians die they immediately go to heaven, where they take up residence in their permanent abode. But can we find such a teaching in the Bible?
Did Elijah Go to Heaven? - A careful reading of the Scriptures shows that Elijah's miraculous removal in a fiery chariot involved transporting him to another location in the area, not to eternal life in heaven.
Was Enoch Taken to Heaven? - Some people believe Genesis 5:24 and Hebrews 11:5 declare that God took Enoch to heaven. But is that what these verses say?
Pre-Christian Belief of an Afterlife in Heaven - Contrary to what many think, God does not promise us we will go to heaven when we die. Instead, Jesus says those who overcome will reign with Him in the coming Kingdom of God to be established on earth at His return (Revelation 3:21; 5:10; 11:15).
Does the Bible Teach That We Have an Immortal Soul? - The Bible confirms that "no one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven" (John 3:13). Even righteous King David, a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22), was described by Peter as being "dead and buried" (Acts 2:29), not alive in heaven or some other state or location.
Are There Saved Human Beings in Heaven? - The Scriptures show no human-besides Jesus the Messiah-has ever entered heaven. The voices referred to in Revelation 19, then, are those of angelic beings who surround God's throne.
Are Some Tortured Forever in a Lake of Fire? - Satan, a spirit being, will indeed suffer torment long after the wicked are burned to ashes. The evil angels-demons-will share with Satan his torment (Matthew 25:41). The beast and false prophet will have ceased to exist.
Lazarus and the Rich man: Proof of Heaven and Hell? - "... In Christ's story God was the beggar's only source of help, for the rich man was certainly not going to do a single thing for him! ... It is important to see this parable of Jesus as a continuation of His conflict with the Pharisees over riches. Christ had said, 'You cannot serve God and Money' (16:13).
The Resurrection: God's Answer to Life After Death - Would a merciful God inflict excruciating pain and torment on human beings for millions and millions of years-throughout all eternity? Could the great Creator God of the universe be that unfeeling and uncaring? Even though "the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23), the God of love, justice and mercy has no desire to see anyone, even the incorrigibly wicked, suffer in agony for all eternity.
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.
Is Heaven the Reward of the Saved? - Is there any biblical basis for the common idea that they will be playing harps somewhere in heaven for eternity?
Reward and Punishment - When will God reward those who love and obey Him? Will God punish those who deliberately refuse to repent of their wickedness and wrongdoing?
The Resurrections of the Dead - The Bible speaks often of the resurrection of the dead. But what is the purpose of the dead being raised if people go to heaven or hell at death, as many believe?
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?
Will God Forget the Dead? - Real comfort comes from understanding the truth of God -- that He will not forget the dead, but will resurrect all who are in their graves.
People Believed in 'Going to Heaven' Long Before Christianity - God does not promise heaven as the reward of the saved. Instead, He has something far greater and more meaningful in mind -- eternal rulership in the Kingdom of God, to be established on earth at Christ's return (Revelation 5:10; 11:15).
Do Good People Really Go to Heaven When They Die? - Most churchgoers believe that when they die they will go to heaven. But will they?the Bible reveals some astounding truths about the muystery of life beyond the grave.
How Much Do You Know About Heaven and Hell? - Are some of your loved ones writhing in everlasting flames? Could a God of love sentence people to an eternity of agony in hell? Can we reconcile a loving God with such ideas ? Discover the encouraging truth from the pages of your Bible!
"All Those in the Tombs Will Hear His Voice' - Jesus made a number of puzzling references to a future resurrection -- puzzling, that is, if we try to reconcile them with the traditional view of heaven and hell.
Heaven on Earth - Is an earthly paradise possible? Believe it or not, it's more than a possibility. It's a certainty!
Is Revelation Related to a Christian's Reward? - Many are misled by one of the most damaging deceptions ever propounded by mainstream Christianity--the idea that heaven is the reward of the saved. But the book of Revelation shows the error of this false doctrine.
Misunderstood Scriptures - Those who insist that the Bible teaches eternal punishment by fire should ask whether such a belief is consistent with what the Bible teaches us about God. For example, how could God justly deal with those who have lived and died without having ever received an opportunity to be saved?
The Resurrection: God's Answer to Life After Death - Would a merciful God inflict excruciating pain and torment on human beings for millions and millions of years-throughout all eternity? Could the great Creator God of the universe be that unfeeling and uncaring? Even though "the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23), the God of love, justice and mercy has no desire to see anyone, even the incorrigibly wicked, suffer in agony for all eternity.
What Signs Are You Waiting For? - Throughout history humans have been looking for visible and supernatural signs to convince them of God's involvement in human affairs. The Bible foretells some amazing celestial signs that will come just before God's final day of wrath is unleashed. But there's no need to wait for those heavenly signs!
Christmas: The Curious Origins of a Popular Holiday - What do evergreen trees, reindeer, mistletoe and yule logs have to do with the birth of Jesus Christ? And was He really born on Dec. 25? You need to discover the real history of Christmas!
Great and Durable Consequences - Do you realize there is a time in the works in which God's Word prophesies that He wants to make those who are diligently preparing now "kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth"
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"
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.
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.
There Remains a Sabbath Rest - Our spiritual rest begins now in this life and reaches its consummation in the resurrection to eternal life at the return of Christ (Revelation 20:6). Christ's return also signals the beginning of the millennial rest prophesied in the Old Testament.
Who Was Melchizedek? - Melchizedek is discribed as being "without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, [and one who] remains a priest continually."
Moon Race Redux - Many nations are committing fortunes to reach the moon! You may be surprised to learn which countries are in the race--and even more surprised by what they seek. Scientists are calling it the perfect fuel, saying it will change the world as we know it.
Are Some Tortured Forever in a Lake of Fire? - But what about all those who died and were never called to salvation? This group represents the majority of all people who have ever lived. What is their eternal fate?
Pre-Christian Belief of an Afterlife in Heaven - Contrary to what many think, God does not promise us we will go to heaven when we die. Instead, Jesus says those who overcome will reign with Him in the coming Kingdom of God to be established on earth at His return (Revelation 3:21; 5:10; 11:15).
Does the Bible Teach That We Have an Immortal Soul? - The Bible confirms that "no one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven" (John 3:13). Even righteous King David, a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22), was described by Peter as being "dead and buried" (Acts 2:29), not alive in heaven or some other state or location.
Are There Saved Human Beings in Heaven? - The Scriptures show no human-besides Jesus the Messiah-has ever entered heaven. The voices referred to in Revelation 19, then, are those of angelic beings who surround God's throne.
Are Some Tortured Forever in a Lake of Fire? - Satan, a spirit being, will indeed suffer torment long after the wicked are burned to ashes. The evil angels-demons-will share with Satan his torment (Matthew 25:41). The beast and false prophet will have ceased to exist.
Lazarus and the Rich man: Proof of Heaven and Hell? - "... In Christ's story God was the beggar's only source of help, for the rich man was certainly not going to do a single thing for him! ... It is important to see this parable of Jesus as a continuation of His conflict with the Pharisees over riches. Christ had said, 'You cannot serve God and Money' (16:13).
Misunderstood Scriptures - Those who insist that the Bible teaches eternal punishment by fire should ask whether such a belief is consistent with what the Bible teaches us about God. For example, how could God justly deal with those who have lived and died without having ever received an opportunity to be saved?
The Resurrection: God's Answer to Life After Death - Would a merciful God inflict excruciating pain and torment on human beings for millions and millions of years-throughout all eternity? Could the great Creator God of the universe be that unfeeling and uncaring? Even though "the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23), the God of love, justice and mercy has no desire to see anyone, even the incorrigibly wicked, suffer in agony for all eternity.
Will the Wicked's Torment Last Forever? - The wicked will not be tormented forever, but will go up "into smoke" and perish: "But the wicked shall perish; and the enemies of the LORD, like the splendor of the meadows, shall vanish. Into smoke they shall vanish away" (Psalm 37:20).
Reward and Punishment - When will God reward those who love and obey Him? Will God punish those who deliberately refuse to repent of their wickedness and wrongdoing?
The Resurrections of the Dead - The Bible speaks often of the resurrection of the dead. But what is the purpose of the dead being raised if people go to heaven or hell at death, as many believe?
How Much Do You Know About Heaven and Hell? - Are some of your loved ones writhing in everlasting flames? Could a God of love sentence people to an eternity of agony in hell? Can we reconcile a loving God with such ideas ? Discover the encouraging truth from the pages of your Bible!
"All Those in the Tombs Will Hear His Voice' - Jesus made a number of puzzling references to a future resurrection -- puzzling, that is, if we try to reconcile them with the traditional view of heaven and hell.
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.
Does the Bible Speak of Hellfire That Lasts Forever? - A plain and simple meaning of Matthew 25:46 that reconciles with the rest of the Bible is that the wicked are cast into a fire that annihilates them, renders them forever extinct.
Misunderstood Scriptures - Those who insist that the Bible teaches eternal punishment by fire should ask whether such a belief is consistent with what the Bible teaches us about God. For example, how could God justly deal with those who have lived and died without having ever received an opportunity to be saved?
Will the Wicked's Torment Last Forever? - The wicked will not be tormented forever, but will go up "into smoke" and perish: "But the wicked shall perish; and the enemies of the LORD, like the splendor of the meadows, shall vanish. Into smoke they shall vanish away" (Psalm 37:20).
Reward and Punishment - When will God reward those who love and obey Him? Will God punish those who deliberately refuse to repent of their wickedness and wrongdoing?
The Feast of Hanukkah: Testimony to Bible Prophecy - The Jewish community worldwide lights candles in celebration of the Hanukkah festival. The dramatic story behind this festival not only shows us God's faithfulness, but also the certain reliability of prophecy!
Two Elizabeths -- A Study in Contrasts - How times have changed! Queen Elizabeth I reigned over one of Britain’s greatest periods of growth and increasing power. The reign of Queen Elizabeth II has seen the disintegration of the British Empire and the considerable decline of Britain as a military power. Why?
A Counterfeit Gospel Arises - It wasn't long until a counterfeit Christianity, teaching a corrupted gospel radically different from that of Christ and His apostles, grew into a religious movement.
Chapter 3: Following in the Footsteps of the Apostles - Paul informs us of an important characteristic of the Church that Christ built. With Christ as its foundational cornerstone, the Church's foundation also rests on the teachings of the apostles and -- not to be overlooked -- the prophets of the Old Testament (Ephesians 2:19-20)
Can You Break the Cycle of Generational Dysfunction? - Often some of our deepest personal problems are rooted in something we can't control-dysfunctional family behavioral patterns that came before us. But we can control our choices, and each of us can choose life and good things!
A Different Kind of King of the South - There is a "different kind of King of the South" who has not encroached on "the glorious Kingdom," but who is taking his backwater "Hermit Kingdom" and is turning it around with a vision of service and inclusion.
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.
Israel's Amazing Story: Fulfillment of Bible Prophecy - As American writer Saul Bellow asked, "What is it that led the Jews to place themselves, after the greatest disaster in their history [the Holocaust], in a danger zone?" The surprising truth is that Jewish rule over Jerusalem is an essential element of end-time biblical prophecy!
The Hesed Factor - How does the Old Testament principle of hesed -- "covenant loyalty" -- apply to Christians today? The love story of Ruth shows the way.
Iran's Growing Nuclear Threat - For the last three years, world attention has focused on Iran's two neighbors, Afghanistan and Iraq. But attention will increasingly focus on Iran, a major Islamic nation well on the way to acquiring nuclear weapons and the means to deliver them.
The Middle East in Conflict: How Will It End? - In the wake of the latest war, Time magazine asked the right questions: "What is it about the Middle East that makes the conflicts so intractable? Why the hate and where's the healing?" (July 24).
Media Blitz Against Israel - Israel is mostly pictured in this whole scenario as the bad guy. It looks very much like the Israelis fell into a trap set by the Iranians, sponsors of Hezbollah.
Keep Your Eyes on Iran - There's more than meets the eye with Iran's recent arrest and release of British sailors picked up in the strategic border area of Shatt al-Arab. Why doesn't Iran want Iraq to succeed? How stable is this Islamic republic, which is on the brink of becoming a nuclear power?
The Mighty Assyrian Empire Emerges From the Dust - The excavations at Nineveh and other cities in the area yielded a staggering wealth of evidence that confirmed many details of the Bible account.
Can You Believe the Bible? - Both God and the Bible have long been under attack. What are some of the motives of critics? And, far more important, what does the evidence dug from the dust of the Middle East reveal?
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).
Christ: A Merciful High Priest - Both the Father and Son are actively involved in fulfilling Their purpose of bringing others into the divine family. It's your destiny. Will you repent and accept this marvelous calling?
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.
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.
A High Priest Eager to Help Us - Jesus was born not only to make possible forgiveness of the past, but to help us conquer the strongholds of sin, the entrenched habits that are so difficult to dislodge from our lives. He is our merciful High Priest in heaven.
Predicting Your Success - How would you like to drastically improve your odds of living a long, financially successful life? It is really quite simple. Read this article to find out how to do so and achieve greater happiness.
Like Hiking With God - If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours. – Henry David Thoreau
Can You Believe the Bible? - When we objectively examine the evidence for the Bible's accuracy and veracity, the only conclusion we can reach is that the Bible is true.
A Page on the World...Books That Changed the World - Robert B. Downs gives landmarks in the history of ideas that can assist us in coming up to speed with many of the foundational thoughts that have shaped and molded the world for the past 500 years.
DisUnited Nations: Why Can't Man's Best Efforts Bring Peace? - British statesman Winston Churchill, soon after its creation, wondered whether the United Nations would be "a true temple of peace" or "a cockpit in a Tower of Babel." Sixty years after its creation we still wonder whether it will fulfill its lofty goals and whether mankind will ever find lasting peace.
Collateral Damage: The Darwin Bomb - What may seem like a good idea at the moment doesn't always turn out to be good in the long run. This is certainly the case with Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
Can You Believe the Bible? - Both God and the Bible have long been under attack. What are some of the motives of critics? And, far more important, what does the evidence dug from the dust of the Middle East reveal?
AIDS: How a Killer Plague Can Be Stopped - The AIDS epidemic is increasing and continues to threaten more millions of lives. Yet, tragically, we ignore the only real solution to this deadly plague.
A World in Need of Hope - Many people are searching for real hope in this life, but cannot seem to find it.
AIDS Can Be Stopped -- Now! - Ignorance has accompanied many of humanity's worst diseases. With AIDS, the same tragic story is unfolding once again. But you don't have to be a victim.
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?
Handling Those Touchy Situations - To help you establish godly standards, consider the following advice given by a panel of young Christians between the ages of 20 and 30.
Crucial Questions - Why do we pretend that a jolly old man in a red suit who lives at the north pole rides around in a sleigh pulled by flying reindeer and drops down chimneys to leave toys (made by elves) for good boys and girls on one night of the year?
Does It Matter to God? - We can take great comfort in the meaning of God's days of worship, since they represent the magnificent plan of God, who will give every human an opportunity to understand and accept His way of life either now or, for the majority of human beings, in an age yet to come.
Halloween: a Celebration of Darkness - Why would anyone celebrate a holiday emphasizing the morbid and macabre? Where did such strange customs originate?
How Christmas Grew - In view of centuries of criticism of the commercialization of Christmas, it is interesting to note that the holiday's secular, not its religious, aspect, has been most responsible for its popularity.
Christmas Reconsidered - What do decorated trees, Santa Claus, elves, reindeer, candles mistletoe, holly, ornaments and exchanging gifts have to do with the birth of the Son of God?
Does God Allow Us to Choose Our Own Religious Holidays? - Many think that under the New Covenant they have freedom to worship God however they want, including deciding on their own days of worship. But what does the Bible say?
Was Christ Born on Christmas Day? - Do you observe Christmas because you think its Christ's birthday? Was he born on or anytime near Dec. 25?
Would Jesus Christ Celebrate Easter? - For millions of people Easter Sunday is the most important religious holiday of the year. But if Jesus walked the dusty roads of Galilee today, would He observe Easter?
When I Rule The World! - Not observing popular holidays and keeping the Sabbath were awkward for me. When I was young, I talked big; later, a conversation with my parents helped me understand.
Christmas: The Untold Story - People almost everywhere observe Christmas. But how did Christmas come to be observed? How did the customs and practices associated with Christmas make their way into traditional Christianity's most popular holiday?
Christmas: The Untold Story - People almost everywhere observe Christmas. But how did Christmas come to be observed? How did the customs and practices associated with Christmas make their way into traditional Christianity's most popular holiday?
From a Scientist Who Believes in God - Vertical Thought discusses evolution and the problems with this theory with Dr. Steven Holladay, a professor of anatomy and toxicology at Virginia Tech's College of Veterinary Medicine.
Book Review-Euro Crash 2007 - What happens is Europe doesn't get the Euro in gear? German economist,Bruno Hollnagel,pens a scary scenario in his book Euro Crash 2007 - the Count Down Has Started.
Resistance Is Not Futile! - When media producers' worldviews don't include God and His standards of behavior, what kind of influence do you think their movies will have?
Hollywood and History - The movie industry may not always accurately represent history, but it has played a role in shaping it.
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.
A Stunning Memorial - Hatred still exists in our world, the kind of hatred that could again erupt into another holocaust.
So, Who Goes First? - The 'invisible' first victims — the German men, women and children who were murdered or sterilized by the Nazis because of conditions such as schizophrenia, genetic diseases, physical handicaps and developmental disabilities.
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?
For Such a Time As Now - What is the difference between the holy and the profane? In one sense the things that are holy are those matters which stand the test of time, because they are godly in nature.
A People Special to God - The special and holy people of God, like Abraham, are obedient people-selected from all nations-who have chosen not to live by bread alone, "but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).
A Close Encounter - The Roman general Pompey entered Jerusalem in the first century B.C.determined to satisfy his curiosity about the worship of the Jewish people. He ascended the Temple Mount to find out the truth behind about reports that the Jewish people had no physical statue or image of God in their most sacred place of worship, the Holy of Holies
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?
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.
What is Europe? - Europe is beset by growing angst about its identity and place in the world.
A People Special to God - The special and holy people of God, like Abraham, are obedient people-selected from all nations-who have chosen not to live by bread alone, "but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).
The Feast of Pentecost: The Firstfruits of God's Harvest - Pentecost serves as an annual reminder that our Creator still works miracles, granting His Spirit to the firstfruits of His spiritual harvest, empowering them to carry out His work in this world.
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?
Is the Holy Spirit a Person? - The apostle Paul states clearly that "there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things ... and one Lord Jesus Christ ..." (1 Corinthians 8:6). He makes no mention of the Holy Spirit as a divine person.
Growing to Spiritual Maturity - This growth process involves overpowering the pulls of the flesh, replacing them with the character of Christ. Where do we begin?
The Holy Spirit: God's Transforming Power - None of us can overcome our sins and shortcomings without God's help. Even if we could by our own will alter our actions, only God can change our hearts.
Why Can't Theologians Explain the Trinity Doctrine? - One cannot prove something from the Bible that is not biblical. The Bible is our only reliable source of divine revelation and truth, and the Trinity concept simply is not part of God's revelation to humankind.
Introduction - Great as He is, God is not unapproachable. He is not beyond our reach. We can come to know this magnificent Being.
`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.
Is God a Trinity? - The fact that the word Trinity appears nowhere in the Bible also gives us reason to reflect. We must not cling to long-held religious traditions if they contradict the Scriptures.
What About Matthew 28:19? - At baptism, repentant sinners enter into a personal family relationship with God the Father and the Son through the Holy Spirit, thereby receiving the name of God.
The Foundation - The key to living a way of life different from the ways of the world is to allow God's Spirit to work in us so we think like Jesus Christ.
Why We Need the Holy Spirit - Within ourselves we possess neither the power nor the faith to keep our commitment as we should. We desperately need divine power to assist us in fulfilling God's wonderful calling. That strength comes as a gift from God.
God's Spirit Before the Church Era - With Adam and Eve the history of human beings began without the active presence of God in their lives; they lacked the power and help of His Spirit.
What is the Holy Spirit? - Spiritual discernment is accessible only from God as a gift through His Spirit.
The Holy Spirit in the Church - Only those who have God the Father and Jesus the Son dwelling in them through the power of the Holy Spirit are considered "children of God."
Just What Is the Holy Spirit? - Is it the third person of the Trinity, or something altogether different? You might be surprised at what the Bible really says!
Faith and the Balance Beam - How can we learn to exercise faith in our everyday lives? I learned an important lesson from my granddaughter?
Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego - One moment they were relatively safe, even held in great esteem as officials in the government of Babylon. The next moment they were brutally tossed headlong into a inferno.
How to Overcome Sin - You need to understand this vital biblical formula for overcoming sin.
Baptism: Beginning of a New Life - Previous articles in this series have covered the vital spiritual tools of prayer, Bible study, meditation, fasting and repentance. But to receive the greatest gifts of God, there is another step you must take—the commitment of water baptism.
The Greatest Addiction of All - Most people know about common addictions to drugs and alcohol. These are difficult enough to face and manage. But the one addiction that is greater than all others is unrecognized by most people. Thankfully, it can be overcome.
God's Spirit: The Power to Transform Your Life - Jesus Christ is cultivating supernatural "fruit" in the lives of His disciples. To understand that miraculous effect, we must first understand the awesome cause and ultimate source—the Spirit of God.
Four Little Words With Big Meaning - God is a God of judgment, and He weighs and measures nations and people alike—past, present and future.
In the Eye of the Storm - Florida experienced four hurricanes last year that wrought much destruction throughout the state. Here is a firsthand account by someone who weathered Hurricane Frances.
The Holy Spirit: God's Transforming Power - None of us can overcome our sins and shortcomings without God's help. Even if we could by our own will alter our actions, only God can change our hearts.
The Fruit of the Spirit - Conversion should produce the fruits of the Spirit: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control".
The Apostles: A Case Study in Conversion - The coming of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4) transformed the apostles of Jesus Christ from a group of ordinary men into some of the most remarkable and dynamic leaders the world has known. To appreciate the magnitude of their transformation, we need to take a closer look at the same men before they received God's Spirit.
Colossians 2:16-17: Are God's Laws Obsolete? - Many people assume from Colossians 2:16-17 that Paul is saying that God's laws about the Sabbath, Holy Days and clean and unclean meats are no longer necessary.
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.
The Festivals of God - Points out the relavance of God's Holy Days to His plan of salvation.
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.
God's Days of Worship - Observances that are rooted in paganism break the first two of the Ten Commandments. Is God pleased when people claim to worship Him by adopting celebrations of pagan gods and goddesses in man-made holidays while they ignore His commanded days and ways of worship?
God's Sabbath in Today's World - On the seventh day of each week, we should cease from our own work and allow God to work in us, building and nourishing our relationship with our Creator.
Observing God's Sabbath - Our traditions encourage us to take the time to honor those we respect. But how many will take the time to observe the sacred sabbaths and holy convocations specifically designated in the Scriptures for honoring God?
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.
Introduction - God reveals His splendid plan in the prophecies and teachings of the Scriptures. God has provided us with the keys to unlock His plan through His sacred festivals.
Obedient Followers of God - The Church of God is committed to living by every word of God, including His instructions to assemble on His annual festivals.
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 Feast of Unleavened Bread - The Feast of Unleavened Bread, the second of God's annual festivals, represents the second step in God's plan for our redemption. Its main focus is on Christ as our Deliverer, our Savior. Therefore it is a thoroughly Christian festival.
'Christ, Our Passover, Was Sacrificed for Us' - The prophet Isaiah foretold Jesus Christ's ultimate sacrifice: 'He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities ... and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.'
God's Judgment: Condemnation or Hope? - The good news is that the judgment of God on man has a better ending than most people think. This good news is revealed in the festivals of God.
Are All Spiritual 'Shadows' Obsolete? - The apostle Paul wrote of the Sabbath and Holy Days as being "a shadow of things to come." Did he mean to tell us that these observances are now obsolete and meaningless?
Do You Know Why Christ Lives? - Christians realize that Jesus was raised from the grave. But do you understand what His resurrection and life mean to us today?
What Religious Days Did Jesus Observe? - Every year millions celebrate major religious holidays that are found nowhere in the Bible. If we are to truly follow Christ, shouldn't we consider which religious days He observed?
The Wave Sheaf: How an Ancient Ceremony Foreshadowed Jesus' Role - The Old Testament describes many ceremonies that sound quite odd to us. Yet everything God does is for a purpose. The purpose of one ceremony, the wave-sheaf offering, was to teach us about one aspect of Jesus Christ's role in mankind's salvation.
How Were Original Biblical Practices Replaced in Christianity? - Biblically ordained festivals were either demoted in importance or dropped altogether. Nonbiblical traditions, such as the association of Christ's resurrection with a Sunday morning sunrise service, gained widespread acceptance and replaced the biblical festivals formerly observed.
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?
The Top 10 Reasons Why I Don't Celebrate Christmas - It's that time of year again! You'll soon be barraged by the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas. Shoppers will soon go into spending overdrive, and when the bills arrive, some will wonder if it's really worth it. Here's a perspective from one who kicked the Christmas habit.
Mysterious Festival Days - Psst. Let me tell you a secret. Millions of professing Christians don’t even know these days exist. Yet these festivals explain how and when God will have a personal relationship with every human being, including you and me. Here’s the inside story. It’s my story, and I hope it is or will be yours.
Editorial: Unscrambling the Meaning of Life - While much of the world’s attention is consumed by controversy surrounding a fictional book and movie, the meaning of life remains a mystery to all but a few.
The Festival Code: Unlocking the Future - The following letters from and to Abdul are composites, but the events pictured by God's Holy Days are real! In fact, these little-known celebrations contain coded messages that reveal the future for everyone.
What Does 'Shadow of Things to Come' Mean? - Paul explains in Colossians 2:17 that God's weekly Sabbath day and sacred festivals are "a shadow of things to come". Many think he was saying this to show that they are unnecessary for Christians. The reality is just the opposite.
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.
Jesus Christ and the Festivals of the Bible - Jesus observed the biblical festivals recorded in the Old Testament. The Gospels do not show Him ever being accused of violating the Holy Day observances.
The Feast of Trumpets - The Feast of Trumpets points us to the Day of the Lord, to the events that will occur just before and at the return of Jesus as King of Kings. But it also points us to the joyous time when Christians, living or dead, will receive God's gift of eternal life in the first resurrection.
Pentecost - Pentecost is the anniversary of the beginning of Christianity under the New Covenant. It was on Pentecost that God first made His Spirit available to all who would repent.
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 Feast of Unleavened Bread - The Feast of Unleavened Bread, the second of God's annual festivals, represents the second step in God's plan for our redemption. Its main focus is on Christ as our Deliverer, our Savior. Therefore it is a thoroughly Christian festival.
Questions and Answers - Jul/Sep 2006 - The following questions and answers represent issues of interest to young people who want sound biblical advice.
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?
"The Exception to the Rule" - Do you sometimes find it difficult to be different from others because of your religious beliefs? Don't be discouraged! I faced the problem and so can you.
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?
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."
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?
"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.
Crisis in the Catholic Church - News of the sexual abuse of children by priests can no longer be covered up, and has serious implications for the Catholic Church in the United States and elsewhere.
The High Cost of Ignorance - Throughout the Bible are priceless laws and principles that would save millions of lives every year.
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.
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.
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?
America's Culture War: Threat to Homeland Security? - While the U.S.-led war on terror continues worldwide, another war -- of colliding cultures -- heats up in the courts of America. Where will this lead the country? Could this war be a greater threat than terrorism?
The Gay Rights Battle - Is there a logical and biblically supportable solution to the gay rights battle?
Saving Marriage: Beyond Constitutional Amendments - In response to same-sex marriages in some states, many are pushing constitutional amendments to preserve the traditional marriage relationship. But it will take much more if marriage is to be saved.
Questions and Answers - Apr/Jun 2005 - The following questions and answers represent issues of interest to young people who want sound biblical advice.
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?
Troubling Times for Three British Institutions! - To comprehend the significance of what is now happening to Britain and why, you need to understand the intriguing history of the grand old British race.
Another Brick in a New World - I wonder when filmmakers will take a bold step away from sex and finally tell a story without major emphasis on the sexual preferences of the main characters. Maybe not in my lifetime, but I can always hope.
Same-Sex Marriage Threatens Civilization - Many fail to realize the dangerous path that same-sex marriage is leading us down. Far more is involved than the opportunity for two members of the same sex to marry.
Is Homosexuality Acceptable to God? - The acceptance of homosexuality as an equally valid lifestyle is rapidly growing in Western culture. Yet God tells us that sex was designed for only one relationship—within marriage, exclusively between a man and a woman.
Symbolism Abounds in Transfer of Hong Kong - Now, almost 50 years to the day since divesting itself of its Indian Empire, the British will hand over control of Hong Kong, the last major possession of the British crown. It's not just the end of an era for Hong Kong. It's the end of an era for Asia and Europe.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease: A Virus with Global Reach - A serious problem has spread from Britian to Europe and South America with potenial worldwide effects. What lessons can we learn from this costly epidemic?