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Biblical Wisdom
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughA significant portion of Scripture, known as the Wisdom Literature, focuses on the theme of wisdom. This collection includes Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. These books emphasize the paramount importance of wisdom in life, portraying it as a top priority and an essential virtue. Wisdom is presented as the principal thing, something to be sought after with diligence, as it preserves and promotes those who embrace it, bringing honor and a crown of glory. In Proverbs, Solomon underscores the value of wisdom, declaring it more precious than rubies, silver, or gold, and beyond all human desires. Wisdom starts with the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of knowledge and understanding, and it is a gift from God Himself. From His mouth come knowledge and understanding, showing that true wisdom originates, continues, and ends with God. The pursuit of wisdom is not merely intellectual but involves practical application, skill in living, and making godly choices that manifest in righteous conduct. The Wisdom Literature also highlights the consequences of neglecting wisdom. Those who disdain wise counsel face calamity and destruction, while those who seek and apply wisdom reap happiness, long life, prosperity, honor, and peace. Thus, wisdom is not an abstract concept but a dynamic force that shapes one's life through actions and decisions aligned with God's will.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God wants us to use wisdom to change ourselves, humbly replacing our perspective with His perspective. God gives wisdom as a component of His grace.
Foolishness and Cleansing
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHuman nature has a perverse drive to take risks, pushing the envelope, taking unwise chances, foolishly gambling away the future. Foolishness is sin.
Is God's Way Simple?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJust because something is simple does not make it true and just because something is complex does not make it false. Deeper knowledge often comes with complexity.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Solomon warns against bad choices in our investment of time. Our knowledge that we will ultimately die should motivate us to use our time circumspectly.
A GPS for our Spiritual Pilgrimage
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasSince God's thoughts are higher than ours, we must keep an intimate GPS-like dialogue with our heavenly Father so we can stay on the right path to the Kingdom.
Psalms: Book Five (Part Four): Psalm 119 (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn order to get the full benefit of the Bible, it is necessary to develop a poetic savvy. The entirety of the Psalms is in verse.
Prophecy and Love in the Song of Songs
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFrom this often misunderstood and misinterpreted poetical work comes some hopeful prophecies along with some vivid descriptions of intimate spiritual love.