When we think of Absalom, David’s son, we often think of him as a man consumed with pride. While pride was certainly at the root of his behaviour, as it is for most of us, it would be wise to consider that Absalom might have been addicted to something else plaguing many men, women, boys, and girls in society today—attention-seeking. As is the custom of the day, a fancy title has been assigned to this behaviour by those who study mental health—Histrionic Personality Disorder.
Some perceive Paul’s teaching about the law’s insufficiency and the fact that we are not under the law to mean that God’s desire is for the New Testament believer to view the law negatively. However, Paul also taught that the law is NOT sin, and that it IS holy, spiritual, and good. Interestingly, Jesus said that His mission was to come to FULFIL the law and Paul taught that we could and should do the same.
The Bible does not condemn interracial marriages or multiracial churches. In fact, the concept of a white church, a black church, or an oriental church to the exclusion of others is unbiblical at its core. Rather, the scripture, Old and New Testaments, warn us not to mingle with those who worship other gods or no God at all. Therefore, segregation is only biblical if it is based upon creed and not color of skin.
Euthanasia literally means good death. It is also called mercy killing. In the Netherlands where euthanasia has been practiced for years, it is called deliverance. It is advocated by Dr. Kevorkian (Dr. Death) and the Hemlock Society. Recently Oregon passed the first measure in the history of the U.S. to legalize euthanasia (although it has had trouble in the courts). The Bible clearly teaches against the practice of euthanasia.
Ecclesiastes declares the absolute vanity of all things under the sun. Biblical vanity does not refer to an excessive care on good looks. Biblical vanity is emptiness or worthlessness.
Many a misguided believer or critic who opposes the death penalty will quote the well known sixth commandment, “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13) as the basis for their argument.
