The Elements of Motivation (Part Four): Obligation
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
No one likes to be indebted to someone else. However, when we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, and He pays for our sins by His blood, we owe Him our lives! But rather than being onerous, our spiritual obligation produces good, leading to a deeply held, personal loyalty to Him. John Ritenbaugh explains that our redemption should make us strive to please Him in every facet of life.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
No one likes to be indebted to someone else. However, when we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, and He pays for our sins by His blood, we owe Him our lives! But rather than being onerous, our spiritual obligation produces good, leading to a deeply held, personal loyalty to Him. John Ritenbaugh explains that our redemption should make us strive to please Him in every facet of life.
The Seven Churches (Part Four): Smyrna
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The letter to Smyrna contains a rarity among the seven churches: Its Author, Jesus Christ, mentions no criticism of its poor, persecuted members! Instead, He calls them spiritually rich and encourages them to be faithful, even unto death, while they suffer severe troubles. Richard Ritenbaugh probes the paradox of the letter to Smyrna, that those who please God due to their righteousness often suffer most.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The letter to Smyrna contains a rarity among the seven churches: Its Author, Jesus Christ, mentions no criticism of its poor, persecuted members! Instead, He calls them spiritually rich and encourages them to be faithful, even unto death, while they suffer severe troubles. Richard Ritenbaugh probes the paradox of the letter to Smyrna, that those who please God due to their righteousness often suffer most.
1335 (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
The period just before and after Jesus Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension was a whirlwind of remarkable events that fulfilled numerous Old Testament prophecies. That time stretched from Jesus' raising of Lazarus to His ascension to heaven ten days before Pentecost, a span of roughly 75 days. Charles Whitaker considers the mindset of the early church, providing a comparison to aid us in handling the coming whirlwind of the end time.
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
The period just before and after Jesus Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension was a whirlwind of remarkable events that fulfilled numerous Old Testament prophecies. That time stretched from Jesus' raising of Lazarus to His ascension to heaven ten days before Pentecost, a span of roughly 75 days. Charles Whitaker considers the mindset of the early church, providing a comparison to aid us in handling the coming whirlwind of the end time.
Hating Evil, Fearing God
'Ready Answer' by David C. Grabbe
II Corinthians 6:14-16 contains a strong warning against mixing evil with good. As Christians, we must be careful to avoid having anything to do with things like Halloween that are evil or glorify it, even if it is "just in fun." Highlighting Proverbs 8:13, David Grabbe explains how the fear of God plays a significant role in helping us rid evil from our lives.
'Ready Answer' by David C. Grabbe
II Corinthians 6:14-16 contains a strong warning against mixing evil with good. As Christians, we must be careful to avoid having anything to do with things like Halloween that are evil or glorify it, even if it is "just in fun." Highlighting Proverbs 8:13, David Grabbe explains how the fear of God plays a significant role in helping us rid evil from our lives.
God's Plan and the False Immortal Soul Doctrine
'Ready Answer' by Craig Sablich
Most nominal Christians and their denominations believe in the Doctrine of the Immortal Soul, but it is a weak reed on which to lean. The Bible does not support it; instead, it teaches the exact opposite, contradicting Satan's argument to Eve that she will not surely die. Craig Sablich explains that it also fails to mesh with God's revealed Plan for humanity, based on God's perfect judgment and His gift of eternal life.
'Ready Answer' by Craig Sablich
Most nominal Christians and their denominations believe in the Doctrine of the Immortal Soul, but it is a weak reed on which to lean. The Bible does not support it; instead, it teaches the exact opposite, contradicting Satan's argument to Eve that she will not surely die. Craig Sablich explains that it also fails to mesh with God's revealed Plan for humanity, based on God's perfect judgment and His gift of eternal life.
Be There Next Year
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Members of God's church usually return home from the Feast of Tabernacles with renewed spiritual vigor. Even so, we are painfully aware that some members fall away each year. John Ritenbaugh writes that we must actively seek God and His righteousness to ensure that we will be around to enjoy next year's Feast.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Members of God's church usually return home from the Feast of Tabernacles with renewed spiritual vigor. Even so, we are painfully aware that some members fall away each year. John Ritenbaugh writes that we must actively seek God and His righteousness to ensure that we will be around to enjoy next year's Feast.
The Tent of God
Article by Ronny H. Graham
Mentions of tents or tabernacles are fairly common in Scripture, from the tents of the Patriarchs to God's Tabernacle in which He dwelt with the Israelites in the wilderness. Some of the Bible's heroes of faith humbly lived in tents for extended periods after living luxuriously in fine homes and palaces when younger. Ronny Graham discusses the spiritual meanings of this biblical image to those whom God has chosen in this age.
Article by Ronny H. Graham
Mentions of tents or tabernacles are fairly common in Scripture, from the tents of the Patriarchs to God's Tabernacle in which He dwelt with the Israelites in the wilderness. Some of the Bible's heroes of faith humbly lived in tents for extended periods after living luxuriously in fine homes and palaces when younger. Ronny Graham discusses the spiritual meanings of this biblical image to those whom God has chosen in this age.
Azazel: Observations and Questions
Article by Pat Higgins
The apostle Paul writes in II Corinthians 4:7 that "we have this treasure [God's revelation] in earthen vessels," and this fact is never more noticeable than when we realize that we have believed something in error for many years. Why were we so blind? Why did God not open our eyes to the truth sooner? What is God trying to teach us? Pat Higgins ponders some observations and asks some questions in the wake of learning who the azazel goat truly represents.
Article by Pat Higgins
The apostle Paul writes in II Corinthians 4:7 that "we have this treasure [God's revelation] in earthen vessels," and this fact is never more noticeable than when we realize that we have believed something in error for many years. Why were we so blind? Why did God not open our eyes to the truth sooner? What is God trying to teach us? Pat Higgins ponders some observations and asks some questions in the wake of learning who the azazel goat truly represents.
The Fall Holy Days
Article by John Reiss
In keeping God's Sabbath and annual holy days, the church of God has gained considerable insight into the biblical appointed times. While the springtime festivals primarily focus on Christ's work for and with His elect, the final four holy days, all occurring in the autumn, represent God's plan of salvation for humanity in general. John Reiss provides a theological and prophetic overview of the fall feasts of God.
Article by John Reiss
In keeping God's Sabbath and annual holy days, the church of God has gained considerable insight into the biblical appointed times. While the springtime festivals primarily focus on Christ's work for and with His elect, the final four holy days, all occurring in the autumn, represent God's plan of salvation for humanity in general. John Reiss provides a theological and prophetic overview of the fall feasts of God.
This Is Not God's World
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
In several places in Scripture, God urges His people to come out of this world. Because He is the earth's and humanity's Creator, we may struggle with this command. But the world of which He speaks consists of society's anti-God religious, psychological, and philosophical systems whose beginnings reside in the Adversary, Satan the Devil. John Ritenbaugh suggests we thoroughly evaluate how much of this world still influences us.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
In several places in Scripture, God urges His people to come out of this world. Because He is the earth's and humanity's Creator, we may struggle with this command. But the world of which He speaks consists of society's anti-God religious, psychological, and philosophical systems whose beginnings reside in the Adversary, Satan the Devil. John Ritenbaugh suggests we thoroughly evaluate how much of this world still influences us.
Where Have All the Babies Gone?
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
Demography, the statistical study of human populations, has proven to be a reliable indicator of future societal and economic health. As one pundit opined, "Demography is destiny." Sadly, because too few babies are being born to maintain the current population, the prognosis for the Western world is not good. Joseph Baity argues that immigration will do little to stem the slide toward societal decline and eventual breakdown.
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
Demography, the statistical study of human populations, has proven to be a reliable indicator of future societal and economic health. As one pundit opined, "Demography is destiny." Sadly, because too few babies are being born to maintain the current population, the prognosis for the Western world is not good. Joseph Baity argues that immigration will do little to stem the slide toward societal decline and eventual breakdown.
The Seven Churches (Part Three): Ephesus
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Jesus Christ's letter to the church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) speaks of members who are zealous and bold in their defense of the truth God had revealed to them but who are not without flaw. Their Savior criticizes them for leaving their first love, of which they need to repent or else. Richard Ritenbaugh urges modern church members, many of whom have also battled apostasy, to apply this epistle's warning personally.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Jesus Christ's letter to the church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) speaks of members who are zealous and bold in their defense of the truth God had revealed to them but who are not without flaw. Their Savior criticizes them for leaving their first love, of which they need to repent or else. Richard Ritenbaugh urges modern church members, many of whom have also battled apostasy, to apply this epistle's warning personally.
How Does Christ Fulfill the Law?
'Ready Answer' by Charles Whitaker
Matthew 5:17 poses a major headache for Bible translators who believe that Christ's sinless life and sacrificial death did away with the law, so Christians do not need to keep it. Jesus, however, consistently teaches that God's law is still in force. By defining a few critical Greek words, Charles Whitaker explains that our Savior meant exactly what He said: He came to fulfill the law, not destroy it.
'Ready Answer' by Charles Whitaker
Matthew 5:17 poses a major headache for Bible translators who believe that Christ's sinless life and sacrificial death did away with the law, so Christians do not need to keep it. Jesus, however, consistently teaches that God's law is still in force. By defining a few critical Greek words, Charles Whitaker explains that our Savior meant exactly what He said: He came to fulfill the law, not destroy it.
The Lamb of Revelation (Part Two)
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
The book of Revelation frequently uses "the Lamb" to refer to Jesus Christ, and the reason for this title becomes clear as the book unfolds. Revelation speaks of a long-awaited redemption that will occur at Christ's return - a redemption, not from sin's penalty, but one that returns ownership of all things to the rightful Heir, our Savior and King. David Grabbe explains.
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
The book of Revelation frequently uses "the Lamb" to refer to Jesus Christ, and the reason for this title becomes clear as the book unfolds. Revelation speaks of a long-awaited redemption that will occur at Christ's return - a redemption, not from sin's penalty, but one that returns ownership of all things to the rightful Heir, our Savior and King. David Grabbe explains.
Playing With Fire
Article by John O. Reid
Solomon uses the analogy of burning oneself to describe sinning, which is particularly apt in describing the pain and scars left by sexual sins. Fulfilling our desires outside the bounds of what God allows is playing with fire: The sexually immoral must deal with perverse thinking, hurt, distrust, and betrayal, not to mention sexual diseases. John Reid explains.
Article by John O. Reid
Solomon uses the analogy of burning oneself to describe sinning, which is particularly apt in describing the pain and scars left by sexual sins. Fulfilling our desires outside the bounds of what God allows is playing with fire: The sexually immoral must deal with perverse thinking, hurt, distrust, and betrayal, not to mention sexual diseases. John Reid explains.
What, Me Worry?
Article by Mike Ford
It is not uncommon to worry about one's financial situation. It has never been easy for most people to make ends meet, causing anxiety. Yet, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ commands us not to worry about our lives, food, drink, or clothing. Considering what life was like in His day, Mike Ford explains, Jesus' simple solution to this common problem will work for Christians just as well now as then.
Article by Mike Ford
It is not uncommon to worry about one's financial situation. It has never been easy for most people to make ends meet, causing anxiety. Yet, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ commands us not to worry about our lives, food, drink, or clothing. Considering what life was like in His day, Mike Ford explains, Jesus' simple solution to this common problem will work for Christians just as well now as then.
In the Grip of Distrust
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Most are aware of a phenomenon that too often takes place within the church of God: If an attitude or trend develops in the world, we can expect it will soon enter the church. Society today struggles under an attitude of deep distrust for institutions and leaders. John Ritenbaugh explains that, in the church, this attitude has led to an increase of independent Christians, a situation contrary to the concept of unity in the Body of Christ.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Most are aware of a phenomenon that too often takes place within the church of God: If an attitude or trend develops in the world, we can expect it will soon enter the church. Society today struggles under an attitude of deep distrust for institutions and leaders. John Ritenbaugh explains that, in the church, this attitude has led to an increase of independent Christians, a situation contrary to the concept of unity in the Body of Christ.
I Versus We
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The Three Musketeers famously said, "All for one, and one for all!" Humanity, however, more readily says either, "All for me!" or "All for us!" These two statements represent opposing worldviews, individualism and collectivism, and they fight for dominance in cultures worldwide. Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how these viewpoints affect our world and how their struggle may play a prominent role in the time of the end.
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The Three Musketeers famously said, "All for one, and one for all!" Humanity, however, more readily says either, "All for me!" or "All for us!" These two statements represent opposing worldviews, individualism and collectivism, and they fight for dominance in cultures worldwide. Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how these viewpoints affect our world and how their struggle may play a prominent role in the time of the end.
The Seven Churches (Part Two): Interpretations
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Traditionally, the modern church of God has taught that the seven churches of Revelation 2-3 are types of seven successive eras from apostolic times to Christ's return. Is this a valid belief? Does the Bible support such an interpretation? Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how the church-eras interpretation compares to three other readings of these enigmatic letters.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Traditionally, the modern church of God has taught that the seven churches of Revelation 2-3 are types of seven successive eras from apostolic times to Christ's return. Is this a valid belief? Does the Bible support such an interpretation? Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how the church-eras interpretation compares to three other readings of these enigmatic letters.
The Lamb of Revelation (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
Nothing is as cute and innocent as a little lamb. When people think of Christ as a lamb, these attributes bleed over into their conception of the Son of God. Yet, in Revelation, we see a far different the Lamb of God, one of wrath and judgment. David Grabbe focuses on an overlooked aspect of the lamb as a biblical symbol: as playing a significant role in redemption.
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
Nothing is as cute and innocent as a little lamb. When people think of Christ as a lamb, these attributes bleed over into their conception of the Son of God. Yet, in Revelation, we see a far different the Lamb of God, one of wrath and judgment. David Grabbe focuses on an overlooked aspect of the lamb as a biblical symbol: as playing a significant role in redemption.