Forerunner: Preparing Christians for the Kingdom of God



The Rift Widens (January 2003)

January 2003
Volume 12, Number 1


Europe and America have been on friendly terms for half a century, but lately, the stresses of the times have strained the relationship. Is the anti-American sentiment in Europe temporary or more longterm? Is this the end of the Atlantic alliance? (CGG)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The Elements of Motivation (Part Seven):
Fear of Judgment

The first six element of motivation were positive, but the last in negative. John Ritenbaugh explains that our fear of being judged negatively by our Judge should spur us to greater obedience and growth toward godliness.

Ready Answer
Does Scripture Allow for Killing in Self-Defense?

by David C. Grabbe

Many Christians believe that we are allowed to take another's life in defense of our own, but is this what the Bible teaches? David Grabbe shows that God's Word distinguishes only between accidental and premeditated killing, meaning self-defense is not a biblical justification for murder!

Prophecy Watch
A Growing Divide

by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, most thought the world would come together, but that has not been the case. In fact, America and Europe have been steadily moving away from each other politically, economically, and culturally. What impact will this have on our understanding of biblical prophecy?

Godly Friendship:
A Priceless Commodity

by David F. Maas

We tend to take our friendships for granted, but they are important parts of our Christian lives. David Maas explains how we should cultivate and appreciate our friendships, for they are a necessary tool in growing in godliness.

WorldWatch
WorldWatch

by David C. Grabbe

News, events, and trends in the light of the Bible for January 2003.

Bible Study
Parable of the Sower

by Martin G. Collins

God spreads His Word liberally among the world's people. Besides God's direct involvement in converting people, the difference between one growing in it and another "dying on the vine" is the soil in which the Word is planted, explained in Jesus' Parable of the Sower.