Forerunner: Preparing Christians for the Kingdom of God



The Spirit of Murder (March-April 2009)

March-April 2009
Volume 18, Number 2


Violence has become a hallmark of modern society, from the grievous horror of abortion to the astonishingly high frequency of murder and suicide. Beyond these, humanity must also face the spectres of terrorism and war. God's law covers all of these sins and more in the sixth commandment. Until mankind conforms to this principle of God's character, there will never be peace.  (Alamy)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The Sixth Commandment

The sixth commandment, forbidding murder, is rare among the Ten Commandments in that a clear and short line can be drawn between its commission and its horrible consequences. Yet, as John Ritenbaugh shows, some people—even nominal Christians—find ways to justify killing their fellow human beings, as well as themselves.

Ready Answer
Don't Be Cruel!

by Staff

Throughout man's long history, cruelty—both to other people and to animals—has been a frequent stain on human character; it is an unfortunate part of human nature. The Bible consistently denounces cruelty in all its forms.

Prophecy Watch
A Subtle Yet Devastating Curse

by David C. Grabbe

Amos 8:11 speaks of "a famine . . . of hearing the words of the LORD." Such a spiritual famine is occurring today: The words of God are readily available, but few are hearing them. David Grabbe explains this prophecy and its connection to the Feast of Unleavened Bread.

WorldWatch
Is This How to Fix a Broken Economy?

by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Over the past several months, the world's economy has struggled, and economists are divided about how soon we may see a recovery. However, Richard Ritenbaugh exposes what is really happening: In the name of turning the economy around, the government is destroying American capitalism.

Bible Study
The Miracles of Jesus Christ:
Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part Three)

by Martin G. Collins

In the healing of the centurion's servant, Jesus commends the centurion for his faith. This Roman officer seems to have understood an aspect of God's authority and power that even most Israelites never realized. Martin Collins contends that many Christians today still do not fully comprehend the power of God's Word.