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Why Are We Called To Overcome?
Sermon by John O. ReidMankind as a whole does not believe that God created them, and they remain unaware of their future potential. God the Father and Jesus Christ have a vast and awe-inspiring plan to call and convert all of mankind, that they might eventually become members of the God Family. Those who are currently called, seen as the foolish, weak, and insignificant, have been chosen by God to put to shame the mighty and to bring to nothing the ways of this world. Through these chosen ones, God will accomplish His goal, revealing an astounding future and tremendous potential for those who heed His call. The phrase "all things" refers to the universe and its movements, indicating a vast scope beyond mere earthly matters. It is understood that not all things have been put under man's control yet, but the implication is that the whole of everything will eventually be placed under mankind's authority. This points to a future of absolute wonder for those called by God, where the Family of God may rebuild or inhabit the heavens, showcasing the incredible destiny awaiting those who strive to become and remain unleavened.
Our Awesome Destiny (1993)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMankind is created in the very image of God, distinct from the animal kinds, bearing a resemblance to the God-kind through a spirit within that animals do not possess. This sets humanity apart, implying a purpose tied to ruling and having dominion. God has declared that mankind is to have authority over creation, a foundational aspect of His purpose as revealed from the beginning. This dominion, initially over the animals and the earth, is expanded to encompass the entire universe, an inheritance far beyond what the human mind can fully grasp. The purpose of life for mankind includes tending and keeping, which means embellishing and guarding from deterioration, whether in building character or maintaining material possessions. These actions prepare humanity for a greater role in the Kingdom of God, where dominion will be exercised on a vast scale. God has equipped the environment to serve this purpose, calling mankind to exercise creativity and responsibility in preserving it, a labor that shapes them for their ultimate destiny. God's purpose unfolds through a promise of inheritance that grows from a limited scope to the entirety of creation. This inheritance is not just for one, but for all who are part of the body of Christ, sharing in His authority and dominion. Those who are faithful, who grow and overcome, who use the gifts given to them through diligent work, will be entrusted with this authority. The reward for such faithfulness is dominion over creation, shared with the Father and the Son. Preparation for this vast dominion is essential, as God will not grant such power to the unfaithful. He is actively preparing His children to rule wisely, ensuring they are fit for the responsibilities ahead. Mankind's potential is to be of the God-kind, to inherit the promises, and to exercise greatly expanded dominion within His family over all that He has created. This is the goal, the priority, to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that all else will be provided.
The Christian Medal of Honor
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAll humans are endowed with an innate honor by virtue of our creation in the image of God. An exalted and extended dominion has been given to us, showing that God has greatly honored us compared to the rest of His creation. Every human being has a responsibility to uphold this wonderful honor that God has bestowed on each and every one of us. However, the majority of mankind has desecrated this God-given honor with dishonorable sin. Only God can deliver us from this body of death and give us eternal life. Only God can grant true honor, but we must seek it from Him rather than from man. If we do not strive to resist the sin that dwells within us, we will not receive this honor. It requires effort, but it is God who ultimately brings us to that place of honor.
Who Do You Trust? (Part Three)
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe corruption of sin was brought on the world through the rebellion of Satan and his fallen angels, an event which took place between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2.
Hebrews (Part Twelve): Chapter 2, A Mind-Bending Purpose (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)To counteract complacency, Hebrews warns against neglecting God's invitation of salvation, which He does not guarantee until sanctification has run its course.