Vance Christie authored a biography on John and Betty Stam, missionaries in China who were martyred in 1934 by Communist rebels. Despite their young ages and brief careers, their deaths had a profound impact, inspiring hundreds of American and British youths to pursue Christian ministry. The couple prioritized their service to Christ over personal desires, which was greatly honored when they ultimately married in China. Their story continues to teach and inspire dedication and sacrifice for faith.

The article explains “Perseverance of the Saints,” the last of the Five Points of Calvinism, which asserts that once saved, individuals remain saved due to God’s immutable nature and unconditional promises. Despite criticisms that this belief may encourage sinful behavior, it is argued that the assurance of salvation encourages obedience out of gratitude. Scriptural evidence emphasizes God’s unchangeable character, his unwavering promises, and His covenant with Abraham. It counters the notion that salvation can be lost, explaining Hebrews 6:4–6 as a rhetorical device, not a doctrinal statement. The doctrine provides comfort and the certainty of eternal security to believers.

IRRESISTIBLE GRACERegeneration of God’s elect is not a cooperative venture, whereby the as yet unregenerate elect have to play their part in agreeing to accept Christ. Regeneration is entirely the Hol...

WHAT IS ATONEMENT? In Christian theology, "atonement" refers to God’s work of removing sin and guilt through Christ’s sacrificial death, so that sinners may be reconciled to Him through faith in C...

What is Election? Election is God’s sovereign and gracious choosing of some to be saved. Scripture clearly teaches this doctrine, such as in Ephesians 1:4 “According as he hath chosen us in him be...

The Synod of Dort coined “total depravity,” asserting that sin affects all aspects of humanity, rendering natural man incapable of spiritual good and in need of God’s mercy for salvation. This biblical doctrine, rooted in Augustine’s teachings, emphasizes salvation as the work of the triune God, independent of human works, and foundational for Christian belief.