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The Birth of Jesus Christ (Part One): Annunciation

'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The accounts of Jesus Christ's conception, as presented in the Gospels, hold significant meaning that has often been obscured by worldly celebrations. Luke, a masterful historian and literary writer, captures the essence of this event with precision and artistry. In Luke 1, the angel, likely Gabriel, appears to Mary, declaring that she has found favor with God and is blessed among women to bear His Son. This favor is not due to Mary's own qualifications but is a gracious act of God, who is the source of this blessing and deserves the glory for it. Mary, described as a thoughtful and serious individual, is initially perplexed by the angel's words but remains composed, keeping these matters in her heart with patience and wisdom. The angel quotes Messianic prophecies from Isaiah, informing Mary that she, as a virgin, will conceive and bear a Son named Jesus, meaning Savior, and also called Immanuel, meaning God with us. Similarly, in Matthew's account, an angel, probably Gabriel again, appears to Joseph in a dream, confirming that Mary's pregnancy is by the Holy Spirit. The angel instructs Joseph to name the Child Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins, and reaffirms that He is God with us. Joseph, depicted as a humble, pious, and obedient man, accepts the angel's message without complaint and complies fully with the divine command. God, in His sovereignty, chose Mary and Joseph, a couple exemplifying submission to His will, to raise His Son. Despite the disruption to their personal plans, they selflessly accepted God's intervention, demonstrating their readiness to follow His guidance.

Was Jesus Christ Born Under the Law?

'Ready Answer' by Earl L. Henn

The life of Jesus Christ serves as a perfect example for us to follow in every aspect. Regarding His conception, it is emphasized that He was physically born through the normal process of human birth to the virgin Mary. God the Father caused Mary to conceive by the Holy Spirit, highlighting the miraculous nature of His coming into being. This divine miracle underscores His humanity, as He was born of a woman, flesh and blood, subject to the same terms, forces, and conditions as any other man. Furthermore, scriptures clarify that Jesus Christ was not bound by the Old Covenant rules and regulations from His birth, as some have argued. Instead, He was placed under the law only at the time of His crucifixion, when God the Father laid the burden of the world's sins upon Him. Leading a perfect life, He was not subject to the ceremonial laws designed to remind Israel of their sins and need for a Savior. Therefore, His example remains one that we are to emulate in all respects, walking in His footsteps as true Christians.

Hebrews (Part Nine): Chapter 1: Jesus' Exultation and Christianity's Claims

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

The conception of Jesus Christ holds a profound significance in understanding His divine nature and role. As declared in Psalm 2, God proclaimed the begetting of His Son, identifying Jesus of Nazareth as the only begotten Son of God, unique and one of a kind. This declaration, though written centuries earlier, was literally assigned by God the Father at the moment Jesus was born of the virgin Mary, marking the beginning of His human life. Even at conception in Mary's womb, He was God, sharing the same divine essence as the Father, yet also becoming human. At the moment of His birth, He was exalted to a position He had not held before, already qualified as God to fulfill His purpose. Throughout His life and ministry, He performed His role as the New Covenant High Priest, not needing to qualify further, for He was already divine from the womb.

Announcing . . . Christ's Birth!

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The blending of paganism with inspired Scripture has degraded and obscured the meaning and glory of what happened in the announcement of Jesus Christ's birth.

Christ Coming in the Flesh

Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

John and other biblical authors emphasize that Jesus Christ came in the flesh as a human being. Jesus had to be fully human to die for human sins.

Excusing Paganism in Christmas

Commentary by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Many 'Christian' leaders embrace a celebration that has undeniably pagan roots, stemming from the winter solstice festivals, observing the rebirth of the sun.

Hebrews (Part Three): Who Was Jesus? (cont.)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

John identifies Christ as co-eternal with the Father, equal in character, but subordinate in authority. Christ's sonship was unique; He was the 'only Begotten Son.'

'Behold, A Virgin Shall Conceive . . .'

'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

To some, the virgin birth is a major teaching, but it is only one of several signs that prove Jesus is the Messiah. Its major purpose is not to glorify Mary.

The Unsung Hero

Sermonette by Ted E. Bowling

Joseph exemplified the qualities of fairness, kindness, and humility, giving Jesus a solid moral and ethical foundation, coupled with an exemplary work ethic.

Abortion

Sermonette by Martin G. Collins

When abortion becomes a social custom, it is a major indicator of the decadence of a people. Today, even mainstream churches have approved abortion.

John (Part Four)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The apostle John has provided at least eight separate forms of witness, establishing the veracity of Jesus Christ's identity as God in the flesh.

Is Mary Worthy of Worship?

Article by David C. Grabbe

The Catholic Church places great importance on Mary, to the point that many Catholics are pushing for Mary to be recognized as 'Co-Redemptrix!

Seeking A New Home

Sermonette by Clyde Finklea

We are seeking a permanent dwelling in God's Kingdom. In our on-going sanctification process, we are not yet home, but trudging along the way in our pilgrimage.

Preternatural, Natural, Unnatural, Supernatural (Part Two)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Because of His sinless life, Jesus' death was unnatural, abnormal, unreasonable, but all that was God's preternatural solution for the salvation of mankind.

Preternatural, Natural, Unnatural, Supernatural (Part Three)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Christ's life and death were supernatural in that He had God's Spirit from the beginning, giving Him power over things, as well as undeniable logic.

Matthew (Part One)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Matthew wrote his account with the Jews in mind, repeatedly saying, 'This was done to fulfill the prophets,' emphasizing the law and the Kingdom of God.