An Affirmative Defense

A Unique Kind of Defense

Under the American system of law, which is itself built upon the English system of Common Law, there is a type of defense known as the Affirmative Defense. This defense is used in civil matters to excuse or avoid liability, and more predominantly in criminal matters to excuse or avoid penalty under law.

A Surpassing Righteousness

An Important Cornerstone

Righteous living has always been a cornerstone of godly living. Ever since the Creation, God has had the expectation of man and woman that he and she both live according to His command. However, both man and woman failed – as every man and woman have since. So what is Jesus teaching when He declares:

For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:20 (NASU)

What Makes You Blush?

Emotional People

Human beings are creatures of emotion. Although it may differ by individual, we all betray our feelings and thoughts in various ways. In sadness it is common to cry tears, or at the very least a fallen countenance. In happiness a smile, a grin, even a laugh. When embarrassed, it is common for a rush of blood to flood the cheeks creating a blush.

Why Was Jesus Baptized?

The Importance of Baptism

Baptism is an important and central aspect of the Gospel message. It is the process by which one is joined with the blood of Christ; the process by which one conforms to His death, burial, and resurrection; and the process by which one is joined to the body of Christ. However, when one studies the subject of baptism in detail, one discovers that Jesus Christ Himself was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River (Mat. 3:15, NASU). For what purpose did this baptism take place? In order to understand this question it is important to first look at the differences between Christian baptism and the baptism of John.