Faith—What Is It? (September-October 2004)

September-October 2004
Volume 13, Number 8

To many, faith is a difficult concept, made more so by centuries of misunderstanding and error. The Bible, however, explains faith in a simple and straightforward way, cutting through the theological obscurity and mysticism that many ascribe to it. (PictureQuest)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The Beast and Babylon (Part Six):
The Woman's Character

Most of us are living in the midst of the end-time manifestation of Babylon the Great. We can resist its influence if we understand what makes it so attractive to human nature. John Ritenbaugh explains what makes the Mystery Woman tick and why God judges her so severely.

Ready Answer
Faith—What Is It?
by Pat Higgins

How important is faith? What is the faith God requires us to have? Pat Higgins explains that faith is simple in concept, but difficult to display in our lives. Nevertheless, we must exercise this gift of God to pass the tests that are sure to precede the return of Christ.

Prophecy Watch
The Fifth Seal (Part One)
by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Following the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse is the Fifth Seal, depicting souls under the altar crying out to God for vengeance. Richard Ritenbaugh goes into the details of this prophecy of persecution and martyrdom of the saints.

Countering the Culture
by Staff

There is no doubt that America's culture is plunging to depths many of us never imagined. To Christians, having to deal with the world is a frightening prospect. Here are five steps we can take to mitigate its influence on our lives.

Searching for Israel (Part Six):
Israel Is Fallen, Is Fallen
by Charles Whitaker

The northern tribes of Israel, having rejected Davidic rule, chose Jeroboam as their king, and he soon led the Northern Kingdom into apostasy. Charles Whitaker shows that after just over 200 years, Israel fell to Assyria, and its people were taken captive and transported to Media. Judah lasted about a century and a half longer, falling to Babylon in 585 BC.

WorldWatch
Europe:
Ripe for Change
by David C. Grabbe

News, events, and trends according to a prophetic perspective for November 2004: "Europe: Ripe for Change"; "Protestantism's Decline"

Bible Study
Parable of the Unprofitable Servants
by Martin G. Collins

In this Parable, Jesus emphasizes the kind of faith His disciples need to endure trials and obey His commands. Martin Collins explains that the only way for a Christian to obtain increased faith is to manifest steadfast, persevering obedience grounded in humility with the help of God's Spirit.