November-December 2009
Volume 18, Number 6

Small islands dot the coastline of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Islands, pieces of land completely surrounded by water, can represent church groups surrounded by the raging sea of the world. In this sense, the church becomes a refuge from the chaos produced by sinful mankind. What a tragedy it is, then, when once-peaceful congregations are torn by rumor, gossip, jealousy, and offense! However, we can be thankful that God provides instruction on how to deal with such problems. (Alamy / Keith Levit)

Personal from John W. Ritenbaugh

We live in a world based on the "get" principle; everyone is out to acquire as much as possible for himself. The tenth commandment, however, is intended to govern this proclivity of human nature, striking at man's heart. John Ritenbaugh exposes the essence of covetousness and its marked link to the first commandment.

Ready Answer

As much as we wish our church congregations could get along peacefully, Jesus tells us that, sadly, offenses must come (Luke 17:1). John Plunkett, comparing our congregations to islands, explains our Savior's instructions about dealing with offenses, enabling church members to feel united and secure on their "islands" amidst a sometimes tumultuous world.

Prophecy Watch

Many prophecy watchers have made their guesses about who the Two Witness of Revelation 11 are, but not all of their ideas have solid, biblical foundations. Charles Whitaker tackles a common view among interpreters, explaining that Scripture precludes it on very solid grounds.

WorldWatch

December 1, 2009, saw the European Union become an official federal state, created by the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty by the EU's 27 member states. David Grabbe analyzes the ramifications of an EU with the power and authority to act as a cohesive whole--if it indeed acts in a united fashion.

Bible Study

Most of the gospel accounts of Jesus casting out demons are impersonal, merely stating the fact that He did so. However, the exorcism in Matthew 8:28-34 is quite detailed. Martin Collins concentrates on the facts that the demon-possessed men were unclean and that God's Word is powerful and efficacious.