Forerunner: Preparing Christians for the Kingdom of God



Hold Fast! (January-February 2013)

January-February 2013
Volume 22, Number 1


Christians are commanded to read the signs of the times, and the signs point to the return of Christ in the near future. But that also means an uptick in the troubles that we have to face, implying a need for us to hold fast to the truths that God has revealed to us. Will we prove steadfast in the face of chaos and tribulation? (Design Pics)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Fully Accepting God's Sovereignty (Part Four)

Government may very well be the most important subject in all the Bible because it contains the vital knowledge of how Christians are to govern themselves under the sovereignty of God. John Ritenbaugh concludes his series on our full acceptance of God's sovereignty by highlighting how Christ helps us to follow God's will as He did.

Ready Answer
Taking the Kingdom by Force

by David C. Grabbe

Students of the Bible frequently have a difficult time understanding Matthew 11:12 and Luke 16:16, parallel scriptures that even commentators often misinterpret. David Grabbe argues that the common explanations fall short in dealing with both the meaning of the Greek and the related theological issues of God's election and salvation by grace.

Prophecy Watch
But Will You Love Me Tomorrow?

by David F. Maas

Over the last several decades, this world has shown itself to be one in which most people lack commitment, whether it is to their mechanics, their spouses, or their beliefs. Using Christ's exhortations to the seven churches in Revelation 2-3, David Maas points out that Scripture foresees that a dearth of steadfastness marks the time of the end, but Christians are urged to hold fast.

WorldWatch
Old Pope, New Pope

by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

A rare event in Vatican history occurred when Pope Benedict XVI resigned his office due to deteriorating health. He has been succeeded by an Argentinian, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who took the papal name of Francis. Richard Ritenbaugh compares the two popes' doctrinal positions and styles of leadership.

Bible Study
The Miracles of Jesus Christ:
Healing a Man Born Blind (Part One)

by Martin G. Collins

Only the apostle John records Jesus' healing of the man born blind, found in John 9, which shows Christ calling a people for Himself despite the efforts of the Jewish authorities to deter Him. Martin Collins covers a few major themes woven throughout this account.