When I began writing OFFICE HOURS, I never guessed how much email the column would generate. Responding has been a privilege, but the volume of letters has become too great for me to reply to them all personally. Instead, ASK THEOPHILUS will appear — as often as needed, and as often as I can manage! Every now and then I'll devote an entire ASK THEOPHILUS to answering a single letter. Usually, though, the column will be a mulligan stew.

If you'd like to submit a letter, please read over these guidelines.

1. I'll read every letter I receive, but please don't expect a personal reply.

2. Any letter I receive might be used in the column — so please don't ask me not to use yours. I do promise to edit out anything which I think may embarrass or identify the writer.

3. Please be clear and brief, and don't be offended if I edit your letter for brevity, grammar and relevance. When rephrasing is necessary, I'll try to preserve the tone and substance of the originals.

4. Only a small percentage of the letters I receive will appear in ASK THEOPHILUS. I'll give preference to letters which raise questions that I know college students are dealing with — especially those who are willing to consider the claims of the Christian faith.

5. Although I do choose a few "relationship" letters, ASK THEOPHILUS is not an advice for the lovelorn column. I encourage questions on every aspect of college, worldview, intellect, way of life and relationship with God.

6. If you ask a question which I have already addressed, the Boundless staff may direct you what I have written about the subject previously. Don't forget the Boundless has a SEARCH feature. You can also check out the online archives of OFFICE HOURS and ASK THEOPHILUS.

7. You don't have to be a Christian to write in. Of course, letters will be chosen for publication according to their interest to a mostly Christian audience, and my responses will always be from a Christian perspective.

8. I do not answer questions about denominational matters. The closest I've come is in my Office Hours column, "If the Reformation's Over, Can We Dance?"

9. Although I fully accept the truth and authority of the Bible, within that perimeter God also expects us to use common sense. For that reason, you shouldn't expect me to provide a verse to back up everything I say.

10. Now and then a letter which doesn't follow these guidelines will be included anyway, just for fun.

Grace and peace,
PROFESSOR THEOPHILUS

I’m ready to submit my letter. If this link doesn't work, send your e-mail to asktheo@trueu.org.