Wyatt Ciesielka

Critics sometimes point to supposed "Bible contradictions" to assert that Christianity is based on a flawed and untrustworthy canon, and that Scripture is not inspired. One such "contradiction" involves the accounts of Judas’ death in Matthew 27:5 and Acts 1:18. Do these passages actually contradict each other? Is the Bible really trustworthy in all points?

Militant Islam continues to strengthen its hold across the Middle East. At the same time, from Oklahoma to England, Western governments are moving to restrict the use of Islamic sharia law in schools, courts and other public institutions (Guardian.co.uk, June 8, 2011). Can Islam find a peaceful place of co-existence with Western culture? Or will its spread lead to increasing tensions and ultimately a final violent conflict against the Western nations?

Can you afford a 30 percent increase in your weekly food bill? Just days ago, two leading food agencies warned of such an increase, and added that "the world should prepare for a decade of high food prices" (Financial Times, June 17, 2011). How will you be affected in the coming months? And how will the crisis end?

This is the story of God’s faithfulness triumphing over ancient king Ahaz’ faithlessness. This is the story of God giving temporary deliverance to Judah despite Ahaz. This is also the story of God promising future deliverance by Another.

Following the Episcopalians, Evangelical Lutherans, and the United Church of Christ, the 2.3 million member Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) recently voted “to allow the ordination of openly gay and lesbian ministers.”  Instead of voting about it, sincere Christians should look at what God’s word says on the matter.