The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Joy is the second fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22. While people pursue happiness in various ways, good and bad, godly joy is far more than mere happiness, delight, cheer, or good feeling. Solomon, who sought joy in many endeavors, said he never really found it and urges us to grasp the fleeting joys we find. John Ritenbaugh shows the missing piece in the search for joy is the Holy Spirit we receive as part of our relationship with God.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Joy is the second fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22. While people pursue happiness in various ways, good and bad, godly joy is far more than mere happiness, delight, cheer, or good feeling. Solomon, who sought joy in many endeavors, said he never really found it and urges us to grasp the fleeting joys we find. John Ritenbaugh shows the missing piece in the search for joy is the Holy Spirit we receive as part of our relationship with God.
A World at War
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
As Jesus warned, we hear increasingly of wars and rumors of wars. Over the past three years, global conflict has risen markedly, spurred by larger regional wars in Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Israel. Africa, Asia, and the Middle East alone account for 55 state-based conflicts, and Islamic actors drive many of them. Joseph Baity briefly examines the global situation, concluding that we should prepare for more intense turmoil.
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
As Jesus warned, we hear increasingly of wars and rumors of wars. Over the past three years, global conflict has risen markedly, spurred by larger regional wars in Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Israel. Africa, Asia, and the Middle East alone account for 55 state-based conflicts, and Islamic actors drive many of them. Joseph Baity briefly examines the global situation, concluding that we should prepare for more intense turmoil.
The Seven Churches (Part Nine): Laodicea
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Jesus Christ's final letter to the seven churches focuses on the Laodiceans' self-deceived evaluation of their spiritual condition. They believe they "have need of nothing," but the righteous Judge warns them that their lukewarm attitude has made them "wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked." Richard Ritenbaugh encourages end-time Christians to throw off any attitudes of spiritual entitlement and submit to Christ's correction.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Jesus Christ's final letter to the seven churches focuses on the Laodiceans' self-deceived evaluation of their spiritual condition. They believe they "have need of nothing," but the righteous Judge warns them that their lukewarm attitude has made them "wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked." Richard Ritenbaugh encourages end-time Christians to throw off any attitudes of spiritual entitlement and submit to Christ's correction.
What Restrains the Man of Sin?
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
When some restraining force is removed, the man of sin or lawless man will rise to dominate the end time. Many have speculated on what restrains him, from God Himself to the church to human governments. In the context, Paul hints at the correct answer, writing that "the mystery of lawlessness is already at work." Charles Whitaker chronicles the decline of Bible-based law in society over the last four centuries, which has paved the way for the man of sin.
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
When some restraining force is removed, the man of sin or lawless man will rise to dominate the end time. Many have speculated on what restrains him, from God Himself to the church to human governments. In the context, Paul hints at the correct answer, writing that "the mystery of lawlessness is already at work." Charles Whitaker chronicles the decline of Bible-based law in society over the last four centuries, which has paved the way for the man of sin.
Flavorless Salt
'Ready Answer' by Hunter D. Swanson
Competitive cooking shows pit chefs against one another, often with a panel of experts to judge their offerings. One maxim of such shows is, "Flavor trumps all," and in many cases, all a dish might need to achieve better flavor is just a little more salt. Hunter Swanson expands on this principle, applying it to the apostle Paul's instruction to Christians in Colossians 4:6, "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt."
'Ready Answer' by Hunter D. Swanson
Competitive cooking shows pit chefs against one another, often with a panel of experts to judge their offerings. One maxim of such shows is, "Flavor trumps all," and in many cases, all a dish might need to achieve better flavor is just a little more salt. Hunter Swanson expands on this principle, applying it to the apostle Paul's instruction to Christians in Colossians 4:6, "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt."
Who Will Be Kept from the Hour of Trial?
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
It is entirely human to try to avoid anything that might be unpleasant, and this reaction is especially true of an event as destructive as the Great Tribulation. While God promises to protect some during that time, it comes with a caveat. David Grabbe posits that, if we show patient endurance now, overcoming and growing, God may bless us with protection from that horrible trial.
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
It is entirely human to try to avoid anything that might be unpleasant, and this reaction is especially true of an event as destructive as the Great Tribulation. While God promises to protect some during that time, it comes with a caveat. David Grabbe posits that, if we show patient endurance now, overcoming and growing, God may bless us with protection from that horrible trial.
The Torment of the Godly (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
God's prophets have a difficult job. They see the world around them through God's eyes, and they are tormented by the rising tide of sin and the coming destruction it will bring. Charles Whitaker focuses on a series of Ezekiel's visions to reveal, from God's perspective, what is really happening behind the scenes and how His people should respond to it.
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
God's prophets have a difficult job. They see the world around them through God's eyes, and they are tormented by the rising tide of sin and the coming destruction it will bring. Charles Whitaker focuses on a series of Ezekiel's visions to reveal, from God's perspective, what is really happening behind the scenes and how His people should respond to it.
'Perfect In His Generations'
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
An important key to correct biblical interpretation is to understand a verse or passage as the author intended, not according to our own prejudices. Genesis 6:9 has suffered such a biased interpretation, taken to mean that God chose Noah because he was racially pure. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that a quick study into the Hebrew words of this verse clarifies the reasons for God's choice.
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
An important key to correct biblical interpretation is to understand a verse or passage as the author intended, not according to our own prejudices. Genesis 6:9 has suffered such a biased interpretation, taken to mean that God chose Noah because he was racially pure. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that a quick study into the Hebrew words of this verse clarifies the reasons for God's choice.
A Course Correction?
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The near-miss assassination attempt on the life of former President Donald Trump may indicate God's intervention in world affairs. The Most High God, Daniel 4 asserts, rules in the kingdoms of men, and He does what He wills to guide events to His desired ends. Richard Ritenbaugh advises that, as Christians, we should consider what God may be orchestrating to bring about the "crisis at the close of the age" and the return of Jesus Christ.
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The near-miss assassination attempt on the life of former President Donald Trump may indicate God's intervention in world affairs. The Most High God, Daniel 4 asserts, rules in the kingdoms of men, and He does what He wills to guide events to His desired ends. Richard Ritenbaugh advises that, as Christians, we should consider what God may be orchestrating to bring about the "crisis at the close of the age" and the return of Jesus Christ.
The Seven Churches (Part Eight): Philadelphia
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Most Church of God members consider the church in Philadelphia the best of the seven churches to which Christ writes letters in Revelation 2 and 3. His criticisms of Philadelphia are muted, and He promises its members protection from "the hour of trial" coming on the world. But have our biases blinded us to what Christ is really saying to this group? Richard Ritenbaugh posits that being a Philadelphian is good, but even Philadelphians have weaknesses.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Most Church of God members consider the church in Philadelphia the best of the seven churches to which Christ writes letters in Revelation 2 and 3. His criticisms of Philadelphia are muted, and He promises its members protection from "the hour of trial" coming on the world. But have our biases blinded us to what Christ is really saying to this group? Richard Ritenbaugh posits that being a Philadelphian is good, but even Philadelphians have weaknesses.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Love
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The apostle Paul lists love as the first of the fruits of the Spirit. Most people do not know what biblical love is, believing that it is caring for others, but that idea is insufficient. In his first epistle, the apostle John writes that love is the primary trait of God that exemplifies His character of outgoing concern that produces goodness. John Ritenbaugh explains what godly love is and what it does.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The apostle Paul lists love as the first of the fruits of the Spirit. Most people do not know what biblical love is, believing that it is caring for others, but that idea is insufficient. In his first epistle, the apostle John writes that love is the primary trait of God that exemplifies His character of outgoing concern that produces goodness. John Ritenbaugh explains what godly love is and what it does.
Tyre and Loving One's Enemies
'Prophecy Watch' by Mike Fuhrer
God's prophecy against Tyre is among the most remarkable in the Old Testament, providing details that were fulfilled exactly centuries later. God's judgment of the ancient city resulted from its pride, greed, and hatred for Israel and Judah, taking advantage of them during their downfalls. Mike Fuhrer uses its story as a cautionary tale, showing that God values our imitation of His love even for those hostile to Him.
'Prophecy Watch' by Mike Fuhrer
God's prophecy against Tyre is among the most remarkable in the Old Testament, providing details that were fulfilled exactly centuries later. God's judgment of the ancient city resulted from its pride, greed, and hatred for Israel and Judah, taking advantage of them during their downfalls. Mike Fuhrer uses its story as a cautionary tale, showing that God values our imitation of His love even for those hostile to Him.
Jesus, Jairus, the Woman, and Faith
'Ready Answer' by Ted E. Bowling
One would think that a man like Jairus, a well-respected and wealthy ruler in the synagogue in Capernaum, would reject Jesus of Nazareth. But when his twelve-year-old daughter fell mortally ill, his perspective changed, and he begged Him to heal his dying child. Ted Bowling explores Mark 5:21-43, the story of the healings of Jairus' daughter and the woman with an issue of blood, finding lessons of humility, faith, and patience.
'Ready Answer' by Ted E. Bowling
One would think that a man like Jairus, a well-respected and wealthy ruler in the synagogue in Capernaum, would reject Jesus of Nazareth. But when his twelve-year-old daughter fell mortally ill, his perspective changed, and he begged Him to heal his dying child. Ted Bowling explores Mark 5:21-43, the story of the healings of Jairus' daughter and the woman with an issue of blood, finding lessons of humility, faith, and patience.
Peter's Trumpets Message—on Pentecost
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
Peter's first sermon took place on the Day of Pentecost, yet his subject seems more fitting for the Day of Trumpets. In that sermon, the apostle speaks from Joel 2 and its description of the Day of the Lord, which ends with the announcement that "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." Charles Whitaker explains that the fulfillment of Pentecost begins a process that God will complete in the fulfillment of Trumpets.
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
Peter's first sermon took place on the Day of Pentecost, yet his subject seems more fitting for the Day of Trumpets. In that sermon, the apostle speaks from Joel 2 and its description of the Day of the Lord, which ends with the announcement that "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." Charles Whitaker explains that the fulfillment of Pentecost begins a process that God will complete in the fulfillment of Trumpets.
The Final Frontier?
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
The "space race" - the international competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to be the first to land a manned spacecraft on the moon and safely return it to the Earth - occurred within living memory. Now, a new space race is on: Nations are vying to dominate space with advanced weaponry in preparation for the next world war. Joseph Baity chronicles the nefarious potential of this latest competition among the nations.
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
The "space race" - the international competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to be the first to land a manned spacecraft on the moon and safely return it to the Earth - occurred within living memory. Now, a new space race is on: Nations are vying to dominate space with advanced weaponry in preparation for the next world war. Joseph Baity chronicles the nefarious potential of this latest competition among the nations.
The Seven Churches (Part Seven): Sardis
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The Sardis church, recipient of Jesus Christ's fifth letter in Revelation 2-3, is judged to be "dead" by the church's Head. He finds the people's works imperfect and their grasp on received truth slipping, commanding them to "hold fast and repent." But a few are still alive and worthy of God's Kingdom among them. Richard Ritenbaugh analyzes this lifeless church, urging us to use it as a spur to reinvigorate our spiritual lives.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The Sardis church, recipient of Jesus Christ's fifth letter in Revelation 2-3, is judged to be "dead" by the church's Head. He finds the people's works imperfect and their grasp on received truth slipping, commanding them to "hold fast and repent." But a few are still alive and worthy of God's Kingdom among them. Richard Ritenbaugh analyzes this lifeless church, urging us to use it as a spur to reinvigorate our spiritual lives.
The Fruit of the Spirit
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The Bible often uses agricultural illustrations in its teaching and perhaps none so frequently as the image of fruit. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul writes of nine specific spiritual products of the work of the Holy Spirit, opposing them to human "works of the flesh." In this introductory article to a series on the fruit of the Spirit, John Ritenbaugh considers fruit as a biblical symbol and the necessary elements required to produce fruit that pleases God.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The Bible often uses agricultural illustrations in its teaching and perhaps none so frequently as the image of fruit. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul writes of nine specific spiritual products of the work of the Holy Spirit, opposing them to human "works of the flesh." In this introductory article to a series on the fruit of the Spirit, John Ritenbaugh considers fruit as a biblical symbol and the necessary elements required to produce fruit that pleases God.
My House or God's?
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
In a revealing passage (John 7:53-8:1), the apostle John contrasts Jesus Christ to the Jews, particularly the chief priests and Pharisees. While they returned to their homes as night began to fall, Jesus turned His steps toward the Mount of Olives, where He often prayed to His Father and where He will return. Noticing a parallel in Haggai 1, David Grabbe explains that God wants His people to prioritize His work of salvation above their physical comforts and desires.
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
In a revealing passage (John 7:53-8:1), the apostle John contrasts Jesus Christ to the Jews, particularly the chief priests and Pharisees. While they returned to their homes as night began to fall, Jesus turned His steps toward the Mount of Olives, where He often prayed to His Father and where He will return. Noticing a parallel in Haggai 1, David Grabbe explains that God wants His people to prioritize His work of salvation above their physical comforts and desires.
The Wavesheaf Offering
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Many in God's church know little about the wavesheaf offering, even though it represents one of the most significant acts of God's Plan: the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ! The day this offering was to be given is also the first day of the count to Pentecost, making it a significant time-marker for God's people. John Ritenbaugh explains the offering's relevance to us today.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Many in God's church know little about the wavesheaf offering, even though it represents one of the most significant acts of God's Plan: the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ! The day this offering was to be given is also the first day of the count to Pentecost, making it a significant time-marker for God's people. John Ritenbaugh explains the offering's relevance to us today.
Head 'Em Up and Move 'Em Out!
Article by Mike Ford
Among the many doctrinal debates that cycle through the churches of God on a regular basis is the question of when the Passover should be kept, the fourteenth or the fifteenth of Abib/Nisan? Leviticus 23:5 reads plainly that Passover should be kept "on the fourteenth day of the first month at twilight." Does it matter as long as we keep it? Mike Ford shows how the logistics of Israel leaving Egypt prove that Passover should be kept on the 14th.
Article by Mike Ford
Among the many doctrinal debates that cycle through the churches of God on a regular basis is the question of when the Passover should be kept, the fourteenth or the fifteenth of Abib/Nisan? Leviticus 23:5 reads plainly that Passover should be kept "on the fourteenth day of the first month at twilight." Does it matter as long as we keep it? Mike Ford shows how the logistics of Israel leaving Egypt prove that Passover should be kept on the 14th.