Filter by Categories
Is Jesus Christ a Christian?
Sermonette by Craig SablichJesus Christ stands as the ultimate example for all spiritual matters, and His teachings on God's law reveal a profound commitment to its enduring relevance. He declared in Matthew chapter 7 that He did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it, rejecting human traditions that distort its purpose. In Matthew chapter 19, He connects eternal life to keeping the commandments, stating, if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments. In John chapter 14, He emphasizes, if you love Me, keep My commandments, teaching that love and obedience are inseparable. Jesus did not diminish the law but elevated it to a higher standard, explaining that hatred breaks the commandment against murder and lust violates the one against adultery. His disciples echoed this reverence, with Paul in Romans chapter 7 declaring, I delight in the law of God, and John in I John chapter 2 asserting that knowing Him is tied to keeping His commandments, labeling as liars those who claim otherwise. Revelation 12:17 further shows that those who keep God's commandments are targeted by the dragon, underscoring the law's continued significance. Jesus preached repentance and turning from sin, demonstrating through His life and teachings that God's law remains a vital foundation, not a burden to be discarded.
Living by Faith: God's Grace (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God's Law, as kept by Jesus Christ, is a vital aspect of the spiritual creation and relationship with God. Jesus Christ, as the personification of grace, exemplifies the continuous flow of empowerment and blessings that enable us to fulfill His commandments. In John 14:15, He instructs, "If you love Me, keep My commandments," emphasizing that this obedience extends beyond the Ten Commandments to encompass all aspects of God's law relevant to the Christian way of life. This keeping of the law is not merely for earning salvation but for glorifying God and internalizing His character within our hearts during the process of sanctification. Jesus Christ's role as our Savior is deeply tied to His faithful adherence to God's law, providing a model for us to follow. Through His life and ministry, as seen in Titus 2, He teaches, empowers, and inspires us to live godly lives, overcome challenges, and perform good works. His example shows that justification by grace through faith does not abolish the law but liberates us to keep it as He did, aligning with God's purpose for our spiritual growth. This truth is reinforced by the understanding that salvation and the ability to uphold God's law are gifts freely given, not earned, ensuring that pride does not taint our relationship with God. Furthermore, the continuous personal involvement of the Father and the Son in our lives, as promised in John 14:18 and 14:23, assures us that we are not orphans but are supported in our efforts to live according to God's law. This divine presence, through the Holy Spirit, is a gracious gift that enables us to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, following His example in obedience to God's commandments for the preparation of our place in His Kingdom.
Why Hebrews Was Written (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod inspired the book of Hebrews to answer the difficult questions church members were struggling with during the tumultuous first decades of the church.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Although God never intended the Old Covenant to endure eternally, the spiritual law (shared by both the old and new covenants) lasts forever.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus qualified as High Priest, teaching us about living by faith in the New Covenant, which mandates that we keep His commandments.