The Folly of Atheism Audio presentation by Michael J. Penfold Apologetics 101 – PART 2 of 5 The Bible doesn’t beat about the bush. Twice over it says “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God’.” In this presentation, Michael Penfold expounds this biblical conclusion, as he examines the folly of a […]
The Existence of Truth Audio presentation by Michael J. Penfold Apologetics 101 – PART 1 of 5 Pilate’s question is still the most fundamental of all: “What is truth?”. In this audio presentation, follow the trail of truth from the pre-modern era, through the modern era to the post-modern era of today. Learn how truth […]
Highly Recommended Creation-Evolution Videos by Michael J. Penfold Films tackling the creation-evolution issue have proved a useful resource over the years. In the early days of video, the Moody Science Classics were widely viewed. Then, at the turn of the 20th Century, some of Illustra Media’s output caught the attention of a larger audience, notably […]
I’m a Christian. Why should I get a COVID-19 vaccine? by David K. Vallance, M.D. (Ann Arbor, MI, USA) I have written this paper to address questions many believers have asked me about the new COVID-19 vaccines. I recommend getting a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can (unless you have had a serious allergic […]
I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, “Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown”; and he replied, “Go out into the darkness, and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than a light, and safer than a […]
Had I My Way to Choose (Poem) Anonymous Had I my way to choose, how easy I would make it: How free from chilling blast, how sheltered and secure. No piercing sorrow should invade the precincts of my life, No disappointment fall across my eager spirit: But I should know the sweets of rest, The […]
Others May, You Cannot by G. D. Watson (1845-1924) If God has called you to be truly like Jesus in all your spirit, He will draw you into a life of crucifixion and humility. He will put on you such demands of obedience that you will not be allowed to follow other Christians. In many […]
Every Day Expressions from the Bible by Michael J. Penfold English speaking people around the world quote the Bible millions of times daily without realising it. How come? Because previous generations, who knew their Bibles better, made dozens of biblical expressions part of their every day lives, and it stuck. Here are some of the […]
No, Mr Dawkins, faith is not belief without evidence. by Michael J. Penfold Faith is anathema to outspoken atheist Richard Dawkins, who scornfully describes it as “blind trust, in the absence of evidence, even in the teeth of evidence”.1 Without evidence, faith is silly; with evidence, faith is superfluous. Game, set and match to atheism? […]
The Legacy (Poem) by J.M.S. Tait What shall he leave his sons? Silver nor gold, Nor heritage, has he, nor herd nor fold. Not these can he bequeath, but this he can – The holy raiment of a saintly man. The fair example of a life well spent; Of daily tendance in the sacred tent; […]
How Do You Know You Are Saved? by Michael J. Penfold Ask people who claim to be saved how they know they are saved, and you’ll receive a wide variety of answers. Some say “I just know”. If that’s your answer, may I kindly ask you exactly how you know? Without a valid basis for […]
Here’s a handy A4 chart containing a timeline of when Paul’s epistles were written, and how that fits with his 4 missionary journeys and his 3 trips to Jerusalem. Click here for a PDF copy or click on the chart below to open up a large jpeg copy: Michael J. Penfold
The Lodger A poem by J.M.S. Tait, based on Numbers 22:8 “Lodge here this night”. Ah, thou that dalliest with temptation And would’st fain a little while thy fell guest entertain; Thinkest thou with morning light he’ll clean depart, And ne’er again come knocking at thy heart? Vain thought! If once thy threshold he has […]
Help with Overcoming the Internet’s Two Big Problems – Defilement and Distraction by Michael J. Penfold Let’s cut straight to the chase here. The internet is a double-edged sword. Supremely useful and pretty much essential on the one hand; but a huge time waster and a moral danger on the other. Here are two apps […]
The Rapture: A Pre-Darby Rapture by David Petterson (Editor of Truth and Tidings Magazine) No, you didn’t miss it. Neither did Darby. The article title is not suggesting that the Rapture occurred before the days of John Nelson Darby (1800-1882), but rather is pointing out that a belief in the Rapture of the Church (in […]
The Most Common Objection to God – Answered by Michael J. Penfold (To watch this as a YouTube video, click here) The most common objection to the God of the Bible is not “how did Noah get all the animals onto the ark?”, nor even “Where did Cain get his wife?”. Ask the average atheist […]
by Michael J. Penfold Elsewhere on this website I have written defending the truth that, in His incarnation, the Lord Jesus took of the substance of the virgin Mary (See Did the Lord Take Anything from Mary?). I briefly referenced some ‘Church history’ in that article, but I intend now to give a much fuller […]
Is Contemporary Worship “in Spirit” and “in Truth”? Perhaps the pivotal passage about worship in all of Scripture is John 4:23-24: “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is [a] Spirit: and they that […]
Child of My Love, Fear Not the Unknown Morrow Anonymous Child of My love, fear not the unknown morrow, Dread not the new demand life makes of thee; Thy ignorance doth hold no cause for sorrow Since what thou knowest not is known to Me. Thou canst not see today the hidden meaning Of My […]
Here’s a handy A4 chart outlining what the New Testament teaches about the content and communication of the gospel. The key take-away from the chart is: God has not only given us a message, but also a method for communicating that message. Click here for a PDF copy or click on the chart below to […]
What is Hypostatic Union? by Michael J. Penfold C.H. Mackintosh once remarked that, “The truth respecting Christ’s humanity must be received with scriptural accuracy, held with spiritual energy, guarded with holy jealousy, and confessed with heavenly power. If we are wrong as to this, we cannot be right as to anything.”[1] That being the case, […]
The Newberry Reference Bible (KJV) has been my Bible of choice for reading, studying and preaching for many years. (It is currently published by John Ritchie Ltd. of Kilmarnock, Scotland, and is available from Eden, Amazon, ABE Books etc.). One of the handiest items in the Newberry Bible is the diagram of Greek prepositions, which […]
Did Wesley Use Tavern Songs? When anyone questions the use of worldly tunes and music in praise and worship, someone will inevitably assert, “It’s fine – after all, John Wesley used pub tunes for his hymns”. This charge against John Wesley (1703-1791) has become an ‘accepted fact’ through constant repetition. There’s only one problem: it’s […]
Here’s a handy outline of Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians in printable A4 chart form: Click here to view the Ephesians outline in PDF or click on the image below to view the Ephesians outline in jpg: Michael J. Penfold info@webtruth.org
Here’s a handy A4 chart outlining what the New Testament teaches about marriage, family and the home. Click here for a PDF copy or click on the chart below to open up a large jpeg copy:
Updated 7.1.20 John Riddle from Cheshunt, England, is a gifted Bible expositor. He has spent the last 50 years or so expounding the Word of God to audiences all over the UK and further afield. For several decades Mr Riddle conducted Friday evening verse by verse Bible studies in his home town of Cheshunt and […]
Here’s a handy A4 chart outlining what the New Testament teaches about separation from the world in 5 aspects: ecclesiastical, social, political, marital and financial. Click here for a PDF copy or click on the chart below to open up a large jpeg copy:
Biblical scholar and author William Kelly (1821-1906) penned a tremendous 62 page book entitled Christ Tempted and Sympathising in which he gets to grips with Hebrews 2:18 “For in that he [Christ] himself hath suffered, being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted” (Heb 2:18). In the course of his remarks, Kelly […]
Here’s a handy A4 chart outlining what the New Testament teaches about the nature, function and purpose of a local church. Remember, how a local assembly operates is a matter of principle, not preference, as shown by: 1 Cor 3.10 – which tells us to be careful how we build into an assembly 1 Tim […]
Christopher Dummitt, an historian of culture and politics, and an associate professor at Trent University’s School for the Study of Canada, was until recently a believer in and promoter of the new idea that gender is just a societal construct, and that biological sex does not determine ‘who you are’. This is the lie that […]
“And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation” (Exod 1.6) It was the end of an era. “That generation” finally passed away. That generation of brothers who knew a father called Jacob. A father who had seen a ladder to heaven at Bethel. A father who had seen the face of God […]
A perceptive read from David Petterson on ‘virtue signalling’ among Christians and the vanity of showcasing one’s spirituality on social media: Once upon a time, a person was considered virtuous by actually doing something (e.g. visiting someone in hospital, helping a neighbour with the lawn, inviting a family to your home for a meal, etc.). […]
A feature of many congregations of God’s people around the world for the last couple of hundred years has been the weekly consecutive verse by verse discussion of the Bible, chapter by chapter, book by book. Such meetings used to be referred to as “conversational Bible Readings”. Although the name may have changed over the […]
Guess who said: “There they were in America [in the early 1960’s] all getting house-trained for adulthood with their indisputable principle of life: short hair equals men, long hair equals women. Well, we got rid of that small convention for them”? The words are Paul McCartney’s1 and the “indisputible principle of life” he claims the Beatles […]
David Gelernter is what I would call a ‘rare bird’. An unconverted Western intellectual who rejects Darwin’s theory of evolution. Why highlight the story of a professor who gives up on Darwin but doesn’t become a “born again Christian”? Because that is not a good look for Darwinism, is it? One expects Christians to reject […]
It’s helpful, when commencing the study of a New Testament book, to read a summary of the book by an author who has passed that way before you. This article reviews 9 such ‘New Testament surveys’, highlighting their take on one particular book: the gospel of John. 1. A Guide to the Gospels (by W. Graham […]
The extreme perfection, complexity and beauty of the human eye – not to mention its dazzling array of utterly astounding functions and capabilities – is both a puzzle and a nightmare for Darwinists. A detailed evolutionary history of the human eye – that is, the mutational pathway from no sight to human sight – has […]
Eugene Higgins (New Jersey, USA) preaches a series of sermons on future events according to the Bible, from the second coming of Christ to the inauguration of the new heavens and the new earth, and everything in between. Clear, contextual and challenging, these Biblical messages will repay careful viewing. PART 1 – It’s the Road, […]
Is it right for a Christian to smoke, or to play the lottery, to watch movies, to follow sports, to play computer games or to be on social media? You will search in vain for a Bible verse that directly addresses these items – and for good reason. When God gave us His written revelation […]
This article by Andrew Ussher (Toronto, Canada) examines the issue of social drinking and answers the question “Is it OK for Christians to drink alcohol in moderation?” Saints who Sip (and Slip) The title of this article will perhaps pique the interest of a variety of readers. I write to stimulate thought and spiritual exercise […]
“Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body” (Heb 13:3) The 10 top countries in the world for the persecution of Christians in 2019 are as follows: North Korea, East Asia (Communist) – Population 25.4 million (1.7% Christian) Afghanistan, […]
Psychologist, author and Harvard professor Steven Pinker is one of the world’s leading atheists. In his book, Enlightenment Now (Penguin, 2018), he says: “Few sophisticated people today profess a belief in heaven and hell, the literal truth of the Bible, or a God who flouts the laws of physics.” Pinker is undoubtedly correct, and I […]
This short post is a plea for us to redress the balance in our attitude to baptism. Yes, baptism is a moment of joy, signifying one’s release from slavery to sin as a master (Romans 6). However, let us pause to remember that the act of baptism in Roman times was the equivalent of a […]
The nature of the relationship between men and women is a massive, live, hot button issue. We live in the era of 4th wave feminism and the “Me-too movement”. The media is awash with discussions of patriarchy, male privilege, the gender pay gap, gender equality, gender stereotypes, female empowerment and much more. The two leading […]
LGBTQ Testimonies and Resources The apostle Paul makes an astounding claim in the Bible: “…neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor those who make women of themselves, nor who abuse themselves with men, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor abusive persons, nor the rapacious, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And these things were […]
by Michael J. Penfold Some have suggested that the physical body of the Lord Jesus was directly created by God from nothing. No physical or genetic link existed between Christ and Mary because God created the Lord’s body without using a mother’s ovum, just as He had done once before, in a different manner, with […]
It would be a worthy goal for every believer to complete a verse by verse study of the following Bible books by the age of 30 (or within 10 years of being saved): One of the 4 gospels Romans 1 Corinthians Ephesians Hebrews These books provide a breadth and depth of divine revelation that is […]
Most people have a fair idea of what “political correctness” is, but very few know the philosophical worldview that sits behind it (and drives it). In That Hideous Strength: How the West was Lost (ISBN: 9781783972401, Evangelical Press) Melvin Tinker removes PC’s mask, exposing it for what it really is – neo-Marxism, sometimes called cultural […]
Afraid of What? by E.H. Hamilton E.H. Hamilton, a Presbyterian missionary to China, wrote the poem below to reflect upon and commemorate the martyrdom of his fellow missionary J.W. Vinson (1880-1931). In October 1931, as Vinson visited some believers 18 miles from his mission station, the area was overwhelmed by a group of 600 bandits. […]
The Bible Validates Itself John F. Parkinson The Bible needs no external authority to validate it. Scripture is self-authenticating and bears the unmistakable stamp of divine authorship, as John Parkinson explains in this helpful article: In our pluralistic age we often hear the Bible described as merely another source of divine inspiration alongside the sacred […]
Atheism is flourishing in the country of my birth. Though 100 years ago most people in the UK attended church, the current figure sits at around 6%. Compare that with the 14% who identify as “convinced atheists”. The ‘atheist percentage’ is considerably higher among the young, which indicates that within a generation the country whose […]
Here’s a great chart from Phil Coulson (editor of the Believer’s Magazine) bringing the Bible’s weights and measures into current numbers by converting them into litres, pints, gallons, grams, kilos, inches and millimetres. A very useful frequently needed chart for Bible readers!
Growing up in the 1960’s and 1970’s, it was the settled view of my generation, and the generations before me, that involvement in politics, either as a voter or a candidate, was not right for a Christian. In recent years however, the Brexit issue in the UK and the Trump phenomenon in the US, has […]
The 21st Century has seen a revolution in the West’s view of life and sexuality, overturning thousands of years of settled and trusted moral norms and replacing them with an ‘anything goes’ culture of amoral attitudes to the body. Love Thy Body by Nancy Pearcey is a 335 page book (Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, […]
Dr David Vallance, a Christian medical doctor from Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, gives a Biblical perspective on the difficult and contentious issues of genetic engineering, designer babies, fetal harvesting and transhumanism. In the beginning, God directed Adam to subdue and rule the earth, and everything in it (Gen 1:28). In this “dominion mandate” the Lord […]
An inspiring, insightful quotation by a Christian author comes to your attention. Impressed by the quote, you consider posting it on social media. Think before you post! Why? Because posting a quote endorses its author. Though it may be scriptural, helpful and inspiring, no quotation exists independently of its source. J.M. Davies used to say […]
An American author wrote a book a while ago called “Stop Asking Jesus into Your Heart”. I have a slightly different plea: stop telling people to “ask the Lord to save them”. This 6-word-sentence is a favourite cliché of many a preacher, Sunday School teacher and Bible Camp leader. Closing a gospel presentation the audience […]
William Hoste (1861-1938), author, preacher and editor of The Believer’s Magazine from 1931-38, graduated from Trinity College, Cambridge, having studied theology there under Handley Moule. Answering a question in print about what Christians are to make of “British Israelism” he answered as follows: The British-Israel hypothesis is that “Anglo-Saxons are the lineal descendants of the […]
What does it take to be effective in the preparation and delivery of sermons that bring glory to God and blessing to men? An unknown author penned the following stirring lines to answer this vital question: Fling the preacher into his office. Tear the ‘office’ sign from the door and nail up the sign, ‘study’. […]
This anonymous article has been around for many years, but it contains a message as relevant and needy as ever. It contrasts the biblical gospel with the “modern gospel” – the old rugged cross with the new smooth cross: All unannounced and mostly undetected there has come in modern times a new cross into popular […]
A feature of many assemblies of God’s people around the world for over a century has been the weekly consecutive verse by verse discussion of the Bible, chapter by chapter, book by book. A Bible teacher in the congregation will introduce a passage, setting out its context, structure, flow and main point, before others will […]
Once a year, the overwhelmingly secular Technology, Entertainment and Design event (TED) brings together “the world’s most fascinating thinkers” for four days of talks and networking. Tickets cost $10,000 per attendee (2018). The conference event itself is but the engine for a much greater vehicle of influence however. The TED website. Previous talks posted on […]
I think oft times as the night draws nigh Of an old house on the hill, Of a yard all wide and blossom-starred Where the children played at will. And when the night at last came down, Hushing the merry din, Mother would look around and ask, “Are all the children in?” […]
Chart of “the Kingdom of God in History and Prophecy” The subject of “the Kingdom” is a grey area in the minds of many Christians! For example, how would you answer the following questions?: What is the Kingdom of God? Is there a difference between the Kingdom and the Church? Is there a difference between […]
Albert Midlane (1825-1909) wrote hundreds of hymns. Among his better known compositions are “Revive Thy work O Lord”, “There’s a Friend for Little Children”, “Passing Onward, Quickly Passing” and “When the Saviour said ‘Tis Finished”. Two of his hymns, below, are particularly rich in their soteriological content. Hymns like these are simply not being written […]
Is the Sabbath for today? by Michael J. Penfold The question of the Sabbath, and whether or not Christians are expected to observe it, is a huge issue in the minds of many people. The world’s largest Sabbath-keeping group is the 20-million-member 7th Day Adventist Church. Their Saturday Sabbath message is making headway on all […]
The Tragic Triumph of Experience Over Truth by Michael J. Penfold Across vast swathes of evangelicalism, doctrine and theology have become dirty words, while what “feels good” has won the day. Exposition has been surrendered to entertainment, preaching to performance, doctrine to drama, and theology to theatrics. As in modern politics, gut feeling has triumphed […]
Is it OK for a Christian to swear or to use euphemisms for swear words (sometimes called ‘minced oaths’)? Our culture may assert that swearing is “only words”, but Christians should be mindful of the purpose for which God gave words. Language is to be used for what glorifies God. Furthermore, what comes out of […]
The Original Lie by Michael J. Penfold The catalyst for humanity’s first sin was a powerfully attractive but ultimately deceptive proposal from Satan: “Disobey God and look what will be yours – you won’t die, but rather your eyes will be opened, and you will be like gods”. It was an offer of life, light […]
It only takes a couple of minutes to download Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. You gain some connectivity, some fame and maybe even make some money. But there’s a downside. You lose your privacy, liberty, tranquility and sanctity, and may never get them back. All in 2 minutes. 1. Privacy Have you ever wondered […]
We live in a world characterised by rapid and large scale urbanisation. In the year 1,900, only 15% of the world population lived in cities. By 2007 it was 50%. By 2,050 it is projected to reach nearly 70%. How should we view this phenomenon? Cities represent both a grave danger to the Christian, as […]
I got up early one morning and rushed right into the day; I had so much to accomplish that I didn’t have time to pray. Problems just tumbled about me, and heavier came each task. “Why doesn’t God help me?” I wondered. He answered, “You didn’t ask.” I wanted to see joy and beauty, but […]
Two key chapters in the book of Daniel, Chs 2 and 9, outline the whole history of God’s dealings with His people Israel from hundreds of years BC, right through to the second coming of Christ and the inauguration of His millennial kingdom. Both of these pivotal prophecies were given before the events they predict […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) examines the flawed worldview of the new “individualism” and explains how it is subtley impacting our language and lives in multiple negative ways. Dr. Higgins adjusts our thinking as he draws us back to Scripture. The brave and intrepid pioneer moving west across North […]
Paul J. Loizeaux (1841-1916) was a Bible teacher and evangelist, and founder of the Loizeaux Brothers Publishing House in New York. In 1870, while preaching in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, he visited the local jail and found a convict by the name of Daniel Mann under sentence of death for murder. He shared the gospel with […]
Whatever happened to the prayer meeting? While the early Christians “continued steadfastly in…the prayers” (Acts 2:42), mid-week congregational prayer meetings have, in many places, become a thing of the past. Much of the blame lies at the door of those of us Christians who, by our actions and attitudes, have precipitated its decline and demise. […]
7 Reasons Not to Have A Church Movie Night (A.W. Tozer) by A.W. Tozer The Passion of the Christ, The Shack, War Room, Ben Hur, Noah, The Jesus Film, Heaven is For Real, Son of God, God is Not Dead, The Case for Christ, Fireproof, Courageous, One Night with the King, Facing the Giants, The […]
In an important article, Dr A.J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) takes up the vital, foundationsl topic of the virgin birth of Christ: Apart from the resurrection of Christ, no truth is so maligned by the scientifically conditioned and rational mind as the virgin birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. While it is sung about […]
Charts of Biblical topics are incredibly useful additions to any Bible student’s library. Being able to view complex topics or themes in chart or table form can make all the difference between bewilderment and clarity in the realm of Bible doctrine! Here are the 5 best books of charts I have enjoyed using over the […]
In 1871, twelve years after his On the Origin of Species was published, Charles Darwin released another explosive book about evolution, The Descent of Man, in which he outlined his theory of human evolution, his main proposal being that mankind had evolved from “some lower form”. Humans are descendants of ape-like creatures, he claimed. Only […]
It is some years since I read ‘The God Delusion’ by Richard Dawkins. An erudite man, a lucid communicator and an eloquent writer, the world’s most famous atheist has a reputation as an outstanding logician. In classical logic, the law of non-contradiction states that “contradictory statements cannot both be true in the same sense at […]
Did Christ Keep The Law for His People? by William R. Newell William R. Newell (1865-1956) is known for his commentaries on Romans, Hebrews and Revelation, as well as his famous hymn “Years I Spent in Vanity and Pride”. He studied at Wooster (Ohio) College, as well as Princeton and Oberlin Seminaries. From 1896-1898 he […]
Local Assembly Basics 8. The Local Assembly Fulfils the Divine Commission Our thoughts now turn to “the great commission” in which the Lord Jesus told his disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel, baptise the converts, and teach them to observe all things that He had commanded. Having looked at the […]
Samuel Whitelock Gandy (1780-1851) I hear the accuser roar, of ills that I have done; I know them well, and thousands more; Jehovah findeth none. Sin, Satan, death, press near, to harass and to appall; Let but my risen Lord appear, backward they go and fall. Before, behind, around, they set their fierce array, To […]
My Child Wants To Be Saved. What Should I Do? by Michael J. Penfold For parents who value the salvation of their children above and beyond everything else, there’s nothing more pleasing than to hear a child say, “Daddy/Mummy, I want to be saved”. Yet, precisely because the eternal welfare of their children is so […]
C.T. Studd (1860-1931) was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. Coming from a wealthy family, and privileged with an education at Eton and Cambridge, C.T. Studd would eventually play cricket for England’s national team. However, God intervened in his life in saving grace. He was converted to Christ as a young man and, rather […]
“Christian rock”, “Christian rap” and all other forms of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) have long since swept away all the early objections that were raised against it by conservative Christians in the 1960’s and 70’s. Hardly anyone talks about ‘worldly music’ anymore. The once radical – and still totally erroneous – idea that “all music […]
by Michael J. Penfold Despite being continually mocked, threatened and beaten for preaching the gospel, the apostles refused either to give up or to change tack. Why? Because they had an unshakeable confidence in the Lord and in His authoritative command – the mandate He had given them – which is now commonly called ‘the […]
Local Assembly Basics 7. The Local Assembly Proclaims Divine Truth The relationship between “God and truth” seems obvious to most Christians. God is the source of truth, all truth is God’s truth, and without God there can be no truth. The concept of “the Bible and truth” is also widely appreciated. God, who is truth, […]
Should Christian Watch Movies? Michael J. Penfold If you a Christian who loves movies, here’s a challenge for you. Are you willing to consider the following five issues that might upset your viewing habits? Before watching a movie, consider: 1. Content The vast majority of Hollywood, Bollywood and the rest of the film industry’s content […]
Local Assembly Basics 6. The Local Assembly Provides Divine Care What a place the assembly is! – where God’s glory is preeminent; His presence is known; His wisdom is displayed; His rule is acknowledged, and His order of headship is honoured and displayed. We come now to a sixth purpose: the assembly is where God’s […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) examines the flawed concept of “mother nature” and points the reader to consider the Creator Himself – the eternal, omnipotent, omnicient, omnipresent God, revealed in the Bible. All of us have likely been guilty of using the expression “mother nature” at one time or […]
Romans 9:17-18 says, “For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.” These […]
As he pens Romans 9:5, the apostle Paul is concluding a paragraph in which he expresses his sorrow over Israel’s national rejection of Christ. He lists many of Israel’s unique privileges – the glory, the covenants, the law etc. – before finally concluding with these words (in Greek): “ων οι πατερες και εξ ων ο […]
Phil Coulson, Bible teacher, author and editor of the Believer’s Magazine, writes an enlightening and insightful article about the character, history and future of the world’s cities, in contrast to the “city of the great King”. A vital, counter-cultural read. The first city ever built on earth was the city called Enoch, and it was […]
Local Assembly Basics 5. The Local Assembly Displays Divine Order We take our leave of the subject of “lordship” to look now at “headship”. These two topics – both of which significantly impact assembly life and testimony – need to be carefully distinguished. Lordship has to do with rule; headship with role. Lordship emphasises supremacy […]
It is well to understand that authentic Biblical Christianity is supremely paradoxical. We Christians see the invisible, believe the impossible and understand the inscrutable. We are strong when we are weak, we forsake to have, and the more we die, the more we live. As if to highlight this principle, when the Holy Spirit directs […]
Robert A. F. Kingscote (1811-1888) The question often arises in the minds of the Lord’s people, especially of those who are young in the faith, “What is to be done with the sins we commit after we have been saved?” Many a child of God has said, “I know that I have believed in Christ, and […]
Local Assembly Basics 4. The Local Assembly Administers Divine Authority In previous articles we have examined a number of basic truths about the local assembly. First, He owns it. Second, He dwells in it. Third, He designed it. Now we come to a fourth fundamental consideration – He rules it. The Bible teaches that Christ […]
by Robert F. Kingscote (1811-1893) There are many Christians who, after having seen that their sins have been forgiven them, are very much troubled to find the workings of sin within – old lusts and desires constantly rising up, which they find they cannot get rid of. “I thought,” say they, “that after I was converted […]
How to Put on the Lord Jesus Christ Michael J. Penfold “Putting on the Lord Jesus Christ” is one of those Biblical expressions that is hard to define and explain in a simple, accessible, and practical way. Let’s start with the word “put on” (Gk. enduo, from which we get the English word endue). It […]
Local Assembly Basics 3. The Local Assembly Exhibits Divine Design We have seen that the Lord both owns the assembly and dwells in the assembly. Let us now consider the fact that He designed the assembly and that its order, structure and character showcase His wisdom. These three facts are placed side by side, in […]
How clear is the sound which the trumpeter gives, That when a poor sinner believeth, he lives; He has done with his nature, condition, and birth, No longer belongeth to Adam or earth; He is born of the Spirit, because he has heard The truth of salvation, as preached in the Word; Received in his heart […]
Local Assembly Basics 2. The Local Assembly Manifests the Divine Presence Our thoughts now turn to a second fundamental purpose of a local assembly – it manifests the presence of God. Since the beginning of creation it has always been God’s purpose to dwell among His people. Adam and Eve heard God’s voice, knew His […]
On a speaking tour of New Zealand, Harold St John (1876-1957), British missionary, author, Bible teacher and father of children’s author Patricia St John, gave a sermon on “breaking hedges”, based on the obscure Bible verse from Ecclesiastes 10:8 “Whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him”. Here is an abridged version of that unique, effective […]
James Morison (1816-1893), in the final couple of pages his book The Extent of the Atonement, relates a number of gripping death-bed experiences of Bible scholars and theologians. The poignant words of this remarkable paragraph serve to show just how simple, and yet profound, child-like faith really is, and also how easy it is to live […]
Local Assembly Basics Introduction It’s common nowadays to ‘choose a church’ based on personal preference. If the kids’ programme is cool, the Pastor is easy to listen to and the band is trendy, what more could one want? However, in light of the fact that the Bible contains several epistles that give detailed doctrinal instructions […]
Amy Carmichael (1867-1951), missionary to India, penned these challenging lines, borne out of her own experience of sacrifice and suffering: From prayer that asks that I may be Sheltered from winds that beat on Thee, From fearing when I should aspire, From faltering when I should climb higher; From silken self, O Captain, free Thy […]
The Courts of Common Sense, by Scottish poet Isaac Y. Ewan, is a critique, in verse, of the ancient Greek poet Homer (circa 7th Century BC). Homer’s influence on Western civilisation has been incalculable. He inspired many of its most famous works of literature, music, and visual art. The Homeric epics, the Iliad and the […]
Is the Bible the Word of God? Audio presentation by Michael J. Penfold Is the Bible the Word of God? it reliable? Is it true? Is the Bible we have today the same as the one originally written? Can the Bible be trusted? Are there any proofs that can be offered? Can Christians claim with […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) takes a discerning look at the issue of “image”. Along with the person we think we are, there is the person we want everyone to think we are – and finally, there is the person we really are. This is a challenging and helpful […]
“Prayer Changes Me” is a discerning look at the purpose of prayer. Are you frustrated by “lack of answers” to prayer? Is nothing happening? In this helpful article, Gary Woods, a Bible teacher and evangelist from Northern Ireland, reveals a little known fact: one of God’s great purposes in prayer is to change me, even […]
“Speaking in tongues” has been a leading feature of the Pentecostal-Charismatic movement ever since its inception. The first supposed occurrence of “tongues speaking” in the modern era took place at 11.00pm on Jan 1st 1901 in Topeka, Kansas, USA, when Agnes Osman claimed to possess and use this gift. Aside from the historical fact that the […]
Author and preacher Franklin Ferguson (1866-1957) from New Zealand, who for 30 years edited The Treasury magazine, wrote a helpful article on the vital subject of “the family altar”, a term once widely employed to describe the habit of Christian families reading and praying together daily. His exhortations provide wise counsel for 21st century families […]
For the good of your health, the World Health Organisation recommends that you eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables each day. Tom Armstrong, a preacher from Derriaghy, Northern Ireland, outlines a spiritual 5-a-day diet for Christians, from Proverbs Chapter 3: The book of Proverbs was largely written by the very wise King Solomon. […]
Author and preacher Franklin Ferguson (1866-1957) from New Zealand, who for 30 years edited The Treasury magazine, wrote a helpful article called “How to Pray” based on Ephesians 6:18-19a, which says: “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; and for me…” […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) examines the vexed issue of materialism and consumerism. How can we live in today’s debt-ridden, easy credit, advertising-soaked society without become victim to the love of money, “the pride of life” and covetousness? A challenging read. Mea culpa! I am guilty. In fact, we […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) takes a discerning look at the celebrity culture of 21st Century Western society. Reality TV, chat shows, social media, selfies, tabloid gossip. How can Christians live in such a culture without being subtly and negatively influenced by it? Read on. As I write, the […]
Author and Bible teacher David W Gooding, MA, PhD, (1925-2019) was for many years professor emeritus of Old Testament Greek at Queen’s University, Belfast, and a member of the Royal Irish Academy. Throughout his long life, Professor Gooding travelled extensively expounding the Word of God and authored numerous highly recommended volumes, most of which are listed […]
Dr. Alfred T. Schofield M.D., L.R.C.P., M.R.C.S., F.R.G.S. (1846-1929), was a distinguished Harley Street [London] physician, an author of considerable repute and an editor of numerous magazines. He was a member of the Victoria Institute and a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. Among his writings exists a famous short story about a medical colleague […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) tackles two epidemics of 21st Century western culture – gambling and alcohol – and examines them from a Biblical perspective. Any student of American history quickly recognises the name of Eliot Ness and his “Untouchables”, who enforced prohibition in Chicago during the 1930’s. Alcohol […]
Why I Abide by the Authorised Version by William Hoste This article by the British author William Hoste B.A. is of historical interest to any concerned with the “Bible Version issue”. The publication, in 1881, of the Revised Version, marked the introduction of the first major English Bible revision since the King James (Authorised) Version […]
Theologically sound, well-written books on the subject of election and predestination, that avoid the extremes of “limited atonement” (Calvinism) on the one hand, and the “falling away” doctrine (Arminianism) on the other, can be hard to come by. Listed here are 13 volumes that engage with the Biblical text using a proper grammatical-historical hermeneutic and […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) explains the phenomenon of the sexual liberation movement in the West and how it managed to overthrow and replace the old Biblical standards of morality with today’s no hold barred hedonism. Dr Higgins gives counsel and insight from the Word of God in our […]
The Prophet, by Scottish poet Isaac Y. Ewan, retells in vivid and poignant tones the story of the courage of a lonely faithful prophet (Micaiah) and the death of a scheming corrupt monarch (Ahab). It would pay you to become familiar with the story in 1 Kings Chapter 22 to really appreciate the way in […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
In two books examining the withering effects of modern secular Western culture on Christian life and Biblical theology, author David Wells provides page upon page of perceptive comment to help the reader make sense of our confusing times. Reading Losing Our Virtue (9780851115771) and No Place For Truth (9780802837134) will amply repay your time and attention. Wells […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
Author, expositor, preacher and missionary John Matthias Davies (1895-1990), whose collected writings span nearly 1,500 pages, was mightily used of God to bring blessing to those who heard him and those who still read his works. His exceptional gift for effective and powerful exposition of the Word of God was never more clearly seen than […]
I cannot but God can, Oh balm for all my care! The burden that I drop, His hand will lift and bear. Though eagle pinions tire, I walk where I once ran, This is my strength to know, I cannot, but He can. I see not but God sees; Oh all sufficient light! My dark […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) sets out a balanced and Biblical look at the current “Israeli-Palestinian” conflict: “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” (Psa 122:6). How does that translate into our worldview of the conflict which has filled the Middle East with violence and bloodshed for over 100 years? […]
In this article, the famous prophecy of the “70 Weeks” (Daniel 9:24-27) is concisely and helpfully expounded by Gabriel B. Fyfe (1909-1999), a Bible expositor who for many years taught the Word of God to appreciative audiences in Ealing, London, UK. Daniel 9 is one of the key chapters of the prophetic word. If understood (with other […]
Be master of thyself, and hold The earth-born team in hand, Possessed and ordered and controlled, Subdued at thy command. Swiftly your heritage they’ll wreck If once their heads get free. Hold then the lawless brood in check Lest they hold you in fee. Their restless impulses restrain, Safe harnessed to thy will. Apply with […]
What is the Difference between Propitiation and Atonement? Samuel McBride This article was originally published as a book called Atonement – Old or New Testament Doctrine? It is taught by many that ‘atonement’ is an exclusively Old Testament idea that means to “cover sin up”, whereas ‘propitiation’ is a New Testament truth that enables the […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) seeks to discover Biblical principles that should be considered when interacting with the issues of organ donation and fertility treatment: Once upon a time, life was simple. Nobody had to debate the issue of death. The doctor waited for breathing and heartbeat to cease […]
He will come; surely come; quickly come; And His praise will rise from lips no longer dumb. For the weeping in the night Oft has dimmed the vision bright, But He’ll come; yes, He’ll come; quickly come. We’ll be glad; O so glad; ever glad. Ne’er again the hearts that love Him shall be sad. Every […]
David McAllister, a Bible teacher from Donegal, Ireland, examines the vital topic of the Millennium. He gives 8 major reasons why the pre-millennial view of prophecy is correct and scriptural, as opposed to the amillennial view. In Revelation 20:1-7, we read about a period of “a thousand years”, from which we obtain the word “Millennium”. […]
George Cutting (1834-1934) was a faithful English evangelist and author, well known for writing the booklet Safety, Certainty and Enjoyment. His other lesser known work – but equally effective – is Light for Anxious Souls, which is reproduced below. This work will be a great help to anyone who is awake to both their condemnation […]
If you, or someone you know, is struggling to be saved, or is agonising with doubts about salvation, C.H. Spurgeon’s Around the Wicket Gate is just what you need. We urge anyone in soul trouble to carefully and earnestly read and meditate on these powerful Biblical insights for their eternal blessing: Around the Wicket Gate Awakening […]
Mr James (Jim) Moorhead Flanigan (1931-2014), from Northern Ireland, had a long a fruitful speaking and writing ministry that lasted more than 40 years. He travelled widely throughout the UK, Ireland, North America, Australia, South Africa and Israel, always leaving behind him a savour of Christ. He was known for his personal godliness, his Christ-exalting ministry and […]
The Potter’s Wheel Isaac Ewan The Potter’s Wheel by Scottish poet Isaac Y. Ewan, paints a gripping picture of a murderer on death row contemplating being hanged “at the stroke of eight” the following morning. Sobered by the thought of eternity beyond death, the condemned man recalls his godly upbringing and, in particular, the Scripture […]
An Outline of Dispensational Truth Harry Bell (1905-1976) was a mighty expositor of the Word of God. Between 1943 and 1973 – when blindness finally overtook him – Harry Bell preached the Word of God full-time throughout all parts of the United Kingdom. A tall man with a photographic memory and a gracious manner, Harry […]
In The Caravanserai, a collection of poems by the early 20th Century Scottish poet Isaac Y. Ewan, there is an impressive and unique composition entitled “The Sexton”. A sexton is a religious official charged with taking care of a church building and its contents, organising the ringing of its bell and sometimes burying the dead in its graveyard. Ewan portrays his […]
Dr Mark Sweetnam, a professor at Trinity College, Dublin, has published widely on a range of topics, including articles on Donne, Shakespeare, Alexander Montgomerie, early-modern preaching and millennialism. Four of his books will be of particular interest to Webtruth readers. In Worship – The Christian’s Highest Calling (9781909789104), Dr Sweetnam seeks first to define worship – never […]
David McAllister, a Bible teacher from Donegal, Ireland, takes up the topic of the vicarious death of Christ and asks “If Christ died for all, does that mean that everyone will be saved? And if not, why not?” The Scriptures teach that not everyone will be saved. The reason is that, in order to be […]
Did Christ Die for All? by David McAllister David McAllister, a Bible teacher from Donegal, Ireland, takes up the topic of the vicarious death of Christ and asks “For whom did Christ die? Was it for all or just for a select few?” According to one dictionary, the word “vicarious” means “acting or done for […]
Should Christians vote? What does the Bible say about Christian involvement in political activism? In this helpful article, Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) addresses this emotive subject in measured tones, applying clear-headed thinking and sound exegesis of relevant Scripture texts. Should a Christian become involved in the political world? Is our calling […]
God is Obvious by Michael J. Penfold From Augustine and Thomas Aquinas in the past, to Norman Geisler and William Lane Craig in the present, there has been a steady stream of formidable Christian apologists throughout history who have furnished the world with ample convincing arguments for the existence of God. Look out for the […]
Frederick A. Tatford (1901-1986) was a prolific British author and widely travelled preacher. F.F. Bruce said of him, “I have known him for over 50 years and have always esteemed him highly for his dedication to the ministry of the Word of God.” Dr Tatford took a special interest in eschatology and wrote widely on prophetic […]
Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) addresses the issue of feminism from a Biblical perspective, with particular emphasis on how feministic thinking, in the form of “evangelical feminism”, is challenging the way the Bible has been interpreted for many centuries. Its Roots What should be our Scriptural worldview of the feminist movement? How […]
This measured and incisive article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) sets out the Bible’s teaching on the human body. Dr. Higgins helpfully addresses issues rarely tackled by Christian writers, such as gluttony, plastic surgery, body piercing and tattoos. “It’s my body and I can do with it what I please!” Really? […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA), giving a Biblical position on the subject of body piercing, appeared as an editorial in the July 2003 edition of Truth and Tidings, and is used by permission: “It is not often that we borrow from the secular literature in an editorial. Yet a […]
The History of the Temple of God by Erich Sauer (1898-1959) In chapter 4 of his classic work From Eternity to Eternity (Paternoster Press, 1954), Eric Sauer outlines the purpose and history of the “Temple of God” from its beginning through to the eternal day of God. This insightful chapter, dealing with a much neglected […]
by Alexander Marshall (1846-1928) This article has been a blessing to thousands of people over many years. In booklet form it has been published in more than 20 languages with over four million copies in print. It highlights around 30 questions, excuses and enquiries about the vital topic of God’s salvation and the way to heaven. In […]
In October 2015 a Christian apologetics conference on the subject of “Origins” was held at the Gospel Hall in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Over seven sessions, a wide range of fundamental issues were taken up by Michael Penfold, all relating to the question of origins. Session 1 dealt with The Origin of Truth. What is truth? […]
Sound Biblical Exegesis Inevitably Leads to Pre-Millennialism by Erich Sauer (1898-1959) In chapter 20 of his classic work From Eternity to Eternity (Paternoster Press, 1954), Eric Sauer includes an impeccably argued passage in which he addresses the importance of taking literally the Bible’s prophecies of a future Millennial kingdom of God on earth. His analysis […]
John Gifford Bellett (1795-1864) was an Irish Christian writer and theologian whose wide range of writings display a deep understanding of Holy Scripture and a spiritually intelligent grasp of the truth of God. His meditations on Genesis Chs 3-5 will repay careful meditation, for in them Bellett reveals the dramatic and fascinating source of both ‘the […]
In October 2015 a conference on the subject of “dispensations and ages” was held at the Gospel Hall in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. Understanding the Bible’s dispensations greatly aids in appreciating its overall flow, structure and goal. These sessions will repay careful viewing. Dan Shutt opened the conference with “An Introduction to Dispensationalism”, outlining the concept of […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) sets out the Bible’s teaching on the environment: Tree huggers, climate-change alarmists, green earth policies, zealous recyclers – we are inundated by the social movements of our day. Stay more than one night in a hotel and you have the option of reusing towels […]
J. Sidlow Baxter (1903-1999): “The greatest sermons usually come when we are not looking for sermons but are studying the Word of God for the sake of its own vital truth. “Much depends on our method of study. According to choice, we may study the books of the Bible spiritually, historically, typically, topically, prophectically, dispensationally, […]
At the end of time, billions of people were seated on a great plain before God’s throne. Most shrank back from the brilliant light before them. But some groups near the front talked heatedly, not cringing with shame but with belligerence. “Can God judge us? How can He know about suffering?”, snapped a lively young […]
The Great Parenthesis by Harry A. Ironside (1876-1951) This is a long post; 35,000 or so words long. Why include it? Webtruth agrees with this article’s author Harry A. Ironside (1876-1951) that understanding the issue of “the great parenthesis” is the key that unlocks the whole field of eschatology (future events). What is this gap, this […]
This is an inquiry as to whether the New Testament’s use of the Greek word ‘psallo’ – usually rendered ‘to sing’ – can be advanced as a proof that instrumental music was employed in the gatherings of believers in apostolic days. An anonymous enquirer posed this question in writing to four respected Bible teachers in a former generation. […]
One of the most neglected and least understood themes of the Bible is its programme of Divine Covenants. Ask the average Christian what he or she knows about the Noahic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic and New Covenants and one is most likely to be met with a blank stare! Despite the somewhat complex nature of the […]
When God deals with mankind creatorially He sees but one group. He created humanity “of one blood” (Acts 17:26). There is but one human race, despite differences of colour, culture and creed. However, when God deals with men redemptively He sees two groups, the saved and the lost (John 3:36, Rev 22:11). Yet, when God […]
Chart of the 7 Dispensations The broad sweep of history is neither random nor chaotic. The Bible reveals that God is working all things after the counsel of His own will (Eph 1:11). He has superintended history in a series of ages or eras, and has allotted to each period a distinctive set of administrative principles. […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) sets out the Bible’s teaching on debility and euthanasia: Shakespeare said it back in 1600: “Last scene of all, that ends this strange eventful history, is second childishness and mere oblivion, sans teeth, sans eyes, sans taste, sans everything.” Solomon’s description in Ecclesiastes 12 […]
Albert Ramsay, evangelist from Prince Edward Island, Canada (1913-1993): “I was only a worthless pebble upon the beach of time, Yet He stooped and declared to heaven “I have made this pebble mine”! And this is why I serve Him as I think of that crowded beach, And shudder: that when He was passing I […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) sets out the Bible’s teaching on marriage, especially as it relates to the issues issues of homosexuality and same-sex unions. In Ephesians 2:2 we are told about the “course of this age”, which carries men along. It is like a mighty ocean current that […]
Charitie Lees Bancroft (1841-1923) is best known, and rightly so, for her hymn “Before the Throne of God Above”.* Mrs. Bancroft, widowed twice in her lifetime, wrote some exquisite poems all of which are available in Within the Vail published in 1867 in Omagh, Northern Ireland. At that time her initials were C.L.S. – Charitie Lees Smith. Sadly, […]
A sizeable portion of the Bible is devoted to covering events that are eschatological. That is to say, they haven’t happened yet. “Last things”, “future events” and “prophetic truths” are scattered liberally throughout both the Old and New Testaments. One could hardly be a Christian and not have an interest in the meaning of such […]
This article by Dr. A. J. Higgins M.D. (New Jersey, USA) gives Biblical guidance relative to LGBT issues. As believers, we maintain a Christian worldview. This is the equivalent of having our minds renewed by the Word of God,1 seeing and evaluating everything the way in which God views it. Having a spiritual or renewed mind […]
In his 2010 book, The Grand Design, Stephen W. Hawking deftly composes a sentence of staggering, perhaps unparalleled, sleight-of-hand proportions. “Because there is a law such as gravity,” he writes, “the Universe can and will create itself from nothing. Spontaneous creation is the reason there is something rather than nothing, why the Universe exists, why […]
One of the most challenging and inspiring books I have ever read is the 500-page biography of the Scottish missionary John G. Paton’s (1824-1907). Paton brought the saving gospel of Jesus Christ to the cannibals of the New Hebrides, now called Vanuatu, in the South Seas. He saw hundreds delivered from the most depraved practices of which […]
5 Reasons Why Tongues Have Ceased Michael J. Penfold Millions of people around the world claim to have the “gift of tongues” and to be able to “speak in tongues”. That the Bible speaks of such a gift is beyond dispute. The New Testament books of Acts and 1 Corinthians contain historical and doctrinal information […]
So, you’re an atheist? Yes. Are you absolutely sure that God doesn’t exist? 100% positive? Totally beyond doubt? No, I didn’t say that. One can’t absolutely prove the non-existence of God, not in the sense of mathematical proof anyway. So you’re not really an atheist, you’re an agnostic. Well…I suppose so, if you put it […]
The age of traditional letter writing has almost gone. It was common in a former era, after the death of a great man or woman, to publish their letters. How strange that sounds now that texting and tweeting has bulldozed the art of thoughtful hand-written communication out of the world. We are the poorer for […]
Fierce was the wild billow, Dark was the night; Oars laboured heavily, Foam glimmered white; Trembled the mariners, Peril was nigh; Then said the Son of God, “Peace! It is I!” Ridge of the mountain-wave, Lower thy crest! Wail of Euroclydon, Be thou at rest! Peril can never be, Sorrow must fly, When, saith the Light […]
by E.W. Rogers (1893-1977) The Great Parenthesis Will the Church go through the Tribulation? This question is perennial: it is always cropping up, and the phrase is almost hackneyed. Only to the ears of those who have some knowledge of what ‘the Church’ really is, and what particular ‘Tribulation’ is alluded to, does the question convey its proper meaning. Amplified, […]
It is in concord with God’s character that the Biblical remedy for man’s spiritual malady be salvation through faith in Jesus Christ (Eph 2:8), based upon His shed blood on the cross (Rom 3:25). Therefore, it should be of little surprise that it is with this essential foundation of the gospel that the Emergent Church […]
Do or Done? by Michael J. Penfold An examination of the world’s religions quickly reveals one stand-out fact. Whether Hinduism with its rituals, Islam with its pilgrimages, Roman Catholicism with its sacraments or evangelicalism with its “sinner’s prayer”, ultimately all religious want you to do something to get right with God. Your salvation, your forgiveness, […]
Should Christians Listen to Contemporary Christian Music? by Michael J. Penfold Lifest is an annual 4-day Christian music festival that takes place in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA, each July. It attracts around 20,000 attendees per day and features around 100 artists performing on 6 different stages. It is a member of The Christian Festival Association, a […]
This is a transcript of a powerful and persuasive message given in 1954 in Motherwell, Scotland, by the evangelist and Bible teacher William Trew (1902-1971) entitled “My reasons for not being free to engage in inter-denominational service”. Scripture readings: Matt 28:16-20, Acts 20:17-38, 1 Cor 9:1-23 The saints who have gathered here today to hear […]
One of the most common criticisms directed at the Emergent Church concerns its handling of the Biblical gospel and, in particular, its tendency to promote the dangerous heresy of Universalism. In the words of one of its most popular advocates, Universalism is the belief that “in the end, all men will be gathered into the […]
I hope that this title will not only arrest your attention but encourage you to take the time to read and meditate on all 17 points of this vital essay by J. C. Ryle (1816-1900). Educated at Eton and Oxford University, the notable Victorian evangelical J.C. Ryle eventually became the Anglican Bishop of Liverpool. The supremely […]
Inner peace. Illusive, fleeting, easily disturbed. How to obtain it? How to maintain it? Meditation, drugs, religion, yoga, romance? Endless options, mixed success. There’s another kind of peace that’s more fundamental, more important. Objective rather than subjective; fixed rather than variable. You need it. Think about this. The opposite of peace is war. Ever since […]
Proposition from Professor Stephen Hawking (Theoretical physicist, cosmologist, author and Director of Research at the Centre for Theoretical Cosmology within the University of Cambridge) “Heaven is a fairy story for people afraid of the dark.” Response from John Lennox (Professor of mathematics at the University of Oxford, philosopher of science, and Christian apologist) “Atheism is a […]
The Atonement by William Blane (Selected excerpts) This poem was written some time after 1883, when William Blane emigrated from Scotland to South Africa. It first appeared in print in 1887, when William Shaw, of Maybole in Ayrshire, had it printed in Scotland as a penny pamphlet. Advertising it in a magazine of which he […]
Consider this statement made in A New Kind of Christianity, by Brian McLaren, a key player in the Emergent Church: “If the Bible is God’s revelation, why can’t Christians finally agree on what it says? Why does it seem to be in conflict with science so often? Why has it been so easy for so […]
In May 2007, an unknown Canadian author by the name of William P. Young self-published his first novel with the help of two friends. Despite the paltry initial marketing budget of $300, it spent 120 weeks on the New York Times best seller list including 52 weeks at #1; no mean feat for a book […]
The following review is taken from the Precious Seed magazine Volume 70 Number 2 – May 2015 “For those who do not follow events in evangelical circles, this book will seem to have little relevance. “Whether it is ‘old Calvinism’, or so-called ‘new Calvinism’, many may feel that the turmoil affecting those of a Reformed […]
How to Become a Christian by Michael J. Penfold The Bible is a living, powerful book. If you truly desire to be saved – to become a Christian – the best thing you can do is to read the Bible for yourself. People are saved “through the word of God” (1 Peter 1:23). Personal saving faith […]
Richard Dawkins, the world’s most famous atheist, highlights two books as particularly significant. Says he, “If On the Origin of Species [by Charles Darwin, 1859] was biology’s deadliest blow to supernaturalism, we may come to see A Universe From Nothing [by Lawrence M. Krauss, 2012] as the equivalent from cosmology. The title means exactly what […]
Of George Whitefield (1714-1770) a hearer reported: “I found him standing on a table-board…with his hands and eyes lifted up to heaven in prayer; he prayed with uncommon fervency, fluency and variety of proper expressions. He then preached about an hour in such a manner as I scarce ever heard any man preach. Though I […]
Humanism is self-centred. It says “Be what you want.” Quote: “You can be whatever you want to be.” Hedonism is feelings-centred. It says “Do what you want.” Quote: “If it feels good – do it.” Materialism is possessions-centred. It says “Get what you want.” Quote: “You deserve it.” Relativism has no centre. It says “Believe what you want.” Quote: […]
Philip Bliss (1838-1876) More holiness give me, More strivings within; More patience in suff’ring, More sorrow for sin; More faith in my Saviour, More sense of His care. More joy in His service, More purpose in prayer. More gratitude give me, More trust in the Lord; More zeal for His glory, More hope in His […]
At the beginning, God placed man in Eden’s paradise. The original creatorial order featured harmony between the Creator and His creation under the rule of Adam, heaven’s vice-regent on earth. Satan engineered a rebellion which resulted in Adam rejecting God’s authority. Adam shifted his allegiance from God to the arch enemy Satan, and since that […]
Tertullian (c. 155 – c. 240 AD): “Are we not…commanded to put away from us all immodesty. On this ground…we are excluded from the theatre, which is immodesty’s own peculiar abode…Is it right to look on what it is disgraceful to do? How is it that the things that defile a man in going out […]
Until I Learned to Trust A poem by William Coltman Until I learned to trust, I never learned to pray; And I did not learn to fully trust Till sorrows came my way. Until I felt my weakness, His strength I never knew; Nor dreamed till I was stricken, That He could see me through. […]
My Hiding Place A poem by Jehoida Brewer (1752-1817) Hail, sovereign love that first began, The scheme to rescue fallen man; Hail matchless free eternal grace, That gave my soul a hiding place. Against the God who rules the sky, I fought with hand uplifted high, Despised the mention of His grace, Too proud to […]
British journalist and satirist Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990), writing before the dawn of the internet age, observed that “…the media in general, and TV in particular, and BBC television especially, are incomparably the greatest single influence in our [British] society today, exerted at all social, economic, and cultural levels. The influence, I should add, is, in […]
George Whitefield (1714-1770) from one of his over 18,000 sermons: “They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace” (Jeremiah 6:14) “And now, my dear friends, examine your hearts, for I hope you came hither with a design to have your souls made […]
People are often unreasonable, Illogical, and self-centered; Love them anyway. If you are kind, People may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway. If you are successful, You will win some false friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway. If you are honest and frank, People may cheat you; Be honest and frank […]
Timeless Eternity A poem by Isaac Y. Ewan Timeless eternity, Shoreless infinity, Measureless, limitless, fathomless sea! Incomprehensible, Vastness extensible, Ever and ever and ever to be! Life’s perpetuity, Love’s continuity, Ceasesless and sinless, in fulness and free! Joyous futurity, Blessed security, Ever and ever and ever to be! Judgement’s immensity, Torment’s intensity, Fearful finality, changeless […]
Tools For Effective Child Rearing by Michael J. Penfold Which Bible verse best expresses the opposite of Ephesians 6:4: “Bring [children] up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord”? Bearing in mind that nurture and admonition express all that is involved in the training and discipline of children, Proverbs 29:15 is probably the closest: […]
The Bible outlines two ways. Man’s way and God’s way – the way of lawlessness and the way of righteousness. These ways are opposed to each other. Indeed, one is a deliberate turning away from the other. Isaiah describes it well. “All we, like sheep, have gone astray, we have turned, every one, to his […]
Is “One Man Ministry” Scriptural? by Michael J Penfold A young man feels ‘called to the ministry’. His pastor recommends him to go to Bible College for three years to become fully equipped for his vocation. At college he is rigorously trained, his trial sermons are assessed and his final examination papers are passed. At […]
In the BBC series ‘Great Britons’ in 2002, Charles Darwin was listed as the 4th greatest Briton ever to have lived. In his contribution to the series, BBC correspondent and atheist Andrew Marr stated: “We have many local heroes; we have only one world changer. His name is Charles Darwin.” In a similar vein James […]
“If there’s a God, please lift that dustbin lid.” by Michael J Penfold The British TV series Dixon of Dock Green ran for an incredible 25 years. In 1990, the atheistic playwright behind it, Ted Willis, moved an amendment to the Broadcasting Bill in the British Houses of Parliament, hoping to pave the way for […]
The maker of the universe, as man for man was made a curse: The claims of laws which He had made, unto the uttermost He paid. His holy fingers made the bough which grew the thorns that crowned His brow: The nails that pierced His feet were mined in secret places He designed. He made […]
Pain Knocked at My Door Anonymous Pain knocked at my door and said she’d come to stay. Though I would not welcome her but bade her go away, Still she entered — And like my shade she followed after me, And from her stabbing stinging sword No moment was I free. And then one day […]
When God Wants to Skill a Man A poem by Angela Morgan, adapted by John Oswald Sanders When God wants to drill a man and thrill a man and skill a man, When God wants to mold a man to play the noblest part; When He yearns with all His heart to create so great […]
My life is but ‘a weaving’ Between My Lord and me, I cannot choose the colours He worketh steadily. Oft times He weaveth sorrow, And I in foolish pride Forget He sees the upper, And I, the underside. Not ’till the loom is silent And the shuttles cease to fly Shall God unroll the canvas […]
It is only a tiny rosebud A flower of God’s design; But I cannot unfold the petals With these clumsy hands of mine The secret of unfolding flowers Is not known to such as I, The flower God opens so gently In my hands would fade and die If I cannot unfold a rosebud, This […]
My waking dreams are best concealed, Much folly, little good they yield; But now and then I gain when sleeping, A friendly hint that’s worth the keeping. Lately, I dreamt of one who cried, “Beware of self, beware of pride; When you are prone to build a Babel, Recall to mind this little fable.” Once […]
Sometimes we come to life’s crossroads We view what we think is the end; But God has a much wider vision And He knows that it’s only a bend The road will go on and get smoother And after we’ve stopped for a rest, The path that lies hidden beyond us Is often the path […]
Thus far did I come laden with my sin; Nor could aught ease the grief that I was in Till I came hither: What a place is this! Must here be the beginning of my bliss? Must here the burden fall from off my back? Must here the strings that bound it to me crack? […]
Introduction When selfish, narrow minded man the mighty works of God would scan He’s sure to estimate the whole in keeping with his narrow soul, Till he, by truth divine, advance into the infinite expanse That lies beyond his shallow thought, and face to face with God be brought To measure, by Jehovah’s strength, the […]
Last eve I passed beside a blacksmith’s door, And heard the anvil ring the vesper chime; Then, looking in, I saw upon the floor, Old hammers, worn with beating years of time. “How many anvils have you had,” said I, “To wear and batter all these hammers so?” “Just one” said he, and then, with […]
What is Postmodernism? by Michael J. Penfold “What’s true for you may not be true for me,” encapsulates the postmodern idiom fairly well. Despite its recent origin, postmodernism currently dominates Western 21st Century media, academia, politics and much of ‘the church’. Statistics reveal that a majority of young people in the West hold to the […]
Arriving at a clear understanding of the true nature of salvation represents the first step in settling the question of eternal security. The Bible clearly teaches that at the very moment of genuine repentance and saving faith a sinner is: Converted – turned around (Acts 3:19) Reconciled – made at peace (2 Cor 5:19) Sanctified […]
How to Study the Bible by Michael J. Penfold Although it is an honour to engage in the immensely rewarding task of Bible study, make no mistake, it’s hard work! The Bible calls its students labourers (2 Tim 2:15). With that in mind it might be helpful to list a number of benefits connected with […]
Assessing contemporary praise and worship (CPW) is a tricky task for two major reasons. Firstly, the phenomenon is less than 60 years old, and secondly, it is a varied and constantly changing field of study. Yet, for all its variety, CPW exhibits four enduring features, which distinguish it from all that went before it, during […]
Contemporary Song Books Examined by Michael J. Penfold A hymn book and a Bible. For hundreds of years ‘the saints’ all carried them to church; but the 21st century finds most worshippers showing up on Sunday morning empty-handed. Only the preacher carries a Bible and the songs are on the big screen. In fact, in […]
Once a matter of life and death, transubstantiation is now generally a matter of indifference. Despite the fact that the process of transubstantiation apparently takes place 120,000,000 times a year (once at each Catholic Mass worldwide), many evangelicals have neither heard of the word nor know what it means. Even when they find out, they […]
It’s a depressing statistic. A majority of Western churches do not see a single addition through conversion in a typical year. So to try and turn things round many are rejecting traditional methods of evangelism and adopting a new ‘church growth’ model. Market research has convinced them that unbelievers stay away from church not because […]
Thou hast no tongue, O Christ, as once of old, To tell the story of Thy love divine: The story still as strange, as sweet, as true; But there’s no tongue to tell it out, but mine. Thou hast no hands, O Christ, as once of old To feed the multitudes with bread divine; Thou […]
Desperate and helpless and longing I cried. Patiently, lovingly my Lord replied. I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate; And the Master so gently said, “Child, you must wait.” “Wait? You said wait?” my indignant reply. “Lord, I need answers. I need to know why. Is Your hand shortened or have […]
I asked the Lord that I might grow, In faith, and love, and every grace; Might more of His salvation know, And seek, more earnestly, His face. ‘Twas He who taught me thus to pray And He, I trust, has answered prayer! But it has been in such a way, As almost drove me to […]
Is this the right road home, O Lord? The clouds are dark and still. The stony path is hard to tread, Each step brings some fresh ill. I thought the way would brighter grow, And that the sun with warmth would glow, And joyous songs from free hearts flow. Is this the right road home? […]
I asked God to take away my pride, And God said, “No.” He said it was not for Him to take away, But for me to give up. I asked God to make my handicapped child whole, And God said, “No.” He said her spirit already is, While her body is only temporary. I asked […]
Beneath an eastern sky, Amid a rabble’s cry, A Man went forth to die For me. Thorn-crowned His lovely head, Blood-stained His every tread; Cross-laden, on He sped For me. Pierced through His hands and feet, Three hours there on Him beat Fierce rays of noontide heat For me. Thus wast Thou made all mine: […]
I supposed I knew my Bible, Reading piecemeal, hit or miss, Now a bit of John or Matthew, Now a snatch of Genesis, Certain chapters of Isaiah, Certain Psalms (the 23rd), Twelfth of Romans, first of Proverbs Yes, I thought I knew the Word! But I found that thorough reading Was a different thing to […]
Hast thou no scar? No hidden scar on foot, or side, or hand? I hear thee sung as mighty in the land, I hear them hail thy bright ascendant star; Hast thou no scar? No wound? No scar? Yet as the Master shall the servant be, And pierced are the feet that follow Me; But […]
Five Minutes After I Die Loved ones will weep o’er my silent face, Dear ones will clasp me in sad embrace, Shadows and darkness will fill the place, Five minutes after I die. But the faces that sorrow I will not see, The voices that murmur will not reach me, But where, O where will […]
Bold infidelity, turn pale and die. Beneath this stone four sleeping infants lie. Say, are they lost or saved? If death’s by sin, they sinned for they are here. If Heaven’s by works, in Heaven they can’t appear. Ah, reason how depraved! Turn to the Bible’s sacred page, the knot’s untied. They died for Adam […]
I said, I will forget the dying faces, The empty places will be filled again; O, voices mourning deep within me cease! Vain, vain the word – how vain! – Not in forgetting lieth peace. I said, I will crowd action upon action, The strife of action will stir my spirit; O tears that drown […]
The DaVinci Code – A Critique by Michael J. Penfold Dan Brown, author of best-selling novel “The DaVinci Code’, claims to know the truth about the greatest cover-up in human history. Though the information he discloses already existed in older non-fiction books such as ‘Holy Blood Holy Grail’ (Dell, 1983) and ‘The Templar Revelation’ (Simon […]
I will not doubt, though sorrows fall like rain, And troubles swarm like bees above a hive, I will believe the heights for which I strive Are only reached by anguish and by pain; And though I groan and writhe beneath my crosses, I yet shall see through my severest losses, The greater gain. I […]
I cannot say beneath the pressure of life’s care to-day, “I joy in these”; But I can say that I had rather walk this rugged way, if Him it please. I cannot feel that all is well when darkening clouds conceal the shining sun; But this I know God lives and loves; and I can […]
I Cannot Give It Up, This Little World I Know A poem by Margaret Mauro I cannot give it up, the little world I know! The innocent delights of youth, the things I cherish so! It’s true, I love my Lord, and want to do His will, But may I not enjoy the world, and […]
Pray don’t find fault with the man that limps Or stumbles along the road. Unless you have worn the shoes he wears Or struggled beneath his load. There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt Though hidden away from view. Or the burden he bears, placed on your back Might cause you to stumble […]
First days for God, Before Thy life is moulded, And God is given Second place – or none. Give Him thy time, And see His plan unfolded; Find in thy years Eternity begun. First hours for God; The day will not be wasted If thou dost tarry In His presence till. Strength from His strength […]
Day of judgment! Day of wonders! Hark! the trumpet’s awful sound, Louder than a thousand thunders, Shakes the vast creation round! How the summons wilt the sinner’s heart confound! At His call the dead awaken, Rise to life from earth and sea; All the powers of nature shaken By His look, prepares to flee. Careless […]
“If” Poem by Isaac Ewan If you can rest from all self-righteous working, As having died with Him Who died for you, To walk in light where evil things are lurking, And stamp integrity on all you do; If you can weigh the worth of public praising, And be a gentleman behind the scenes, And […]
A Pomegranate and a Bell by J.M.S. Tait With holy awe and reverent pace, The Priest approached the Holy Place; Attired in garments that became The Place where God had set His Name. His ephod shone with gold and gems, While softly from the wreathen hems The mellow music rose and fell, From ‘a pomegranate […]
