Filter by Categories
Studying the Bible
Sermon by John O. ReidWhen we first came into God's church, we were eager to dive into our Bibles, realizing how little we knew about what God wanted. We consumed every piece of material, from booklets to The Plain Truth magazine, marking up passages that struck us as vital. The Ambassador Bible Correspondence Course was a treasure; we meticulously followed instructions, maintained notebooks, answered questions, and eagerly awaited test results to learn from our mistakes. We attended every Bible study and Sabbath service, soaking up messages and desiring correction. Over time, we learned that maintaining a connection with God requires an intimate relationship through consistent prayer and Bible study. Initially, guidelines like dedicating half an hour daily to each were helpful, but we came to understand that quality matters more than quantity. Personal Bible study often takes a backseat to the busyness of life, with articles, sermons, and tapes sometimes replacing direct engagement with God's Word. Yet, God calls us individually, and our unique needs and circumstances require personal instruction from Him through His Word. The value of the Bible is immeasurable, far beyond its monetary cost today. It is a library of history, poetry, drama, biography, prophecy, philosophy, science, and inspiration, written by God for our instruction on how to live. Despite its accessibility, consistent study is challenging in our busy society, where conveniences save time only for us to fill it with other tasks. The Bible does not demand attention; it waits for us to prioritize it over the crises of daily life. Setting priorities is crucial, ensuring Bible study comes first. Feeling overwhelmed by where to start or how to study is common, but resources like The Bible Correspondence Course and study outlines in publications like the Forerunner can guide us. Personal study is essential for addressing individual life issues, as general courses may not cover specific personal needs. We must set aside a consistent, unrushed time for productive Bible study, preceded by prayer for correction, encouragement, and an open mind to God's truth. Different methods can enhance study, such as reading through the Bible with note-taking, asking questions about passages, creating a Proverbs index for topical reference, or memorizing scriptures using cards. The key is to follow a systematic method faithfully, changing approaches for variety if needed. Consistent Bible study transforms our thinking to align with God's perspective, helping us make life changes that please Him. It strengthens our faith, teaches us how to love others, and prepares us for roles in God's Kingdom. God values us immensely, having given everything for us, and in gratitude, we must put forth effort to learn about Him through daily personal Bible study.
The Poetry of the Bible
CGG WeeklyThe Bible can be described as a literary marvel, a glorious work of art that matches—indeed surpasses—the brilliance of any secular work.
The Berean Example
Article by StaffThe ancient Bereans have a wonderful biblical reputation. Just how special were these Macedonian Christians?
Dead Prophets' Society
CGG Weekly by Mike FuhrerToday's hollowed-out nominal Christianity asserts that, if one wants Christian doctrinal proof, go to Jesus and Paul, not Moses, David, or the prophets.
Metaphors of God's Word
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist says His words are Spirit and Life; they have a quality above human words because their source is divine. If ingested, these words lead to eternal life.
Developing a Mature Spiritual Appetite
'Ready Answer' by David F. MaasOne of the most widely occurring metaphors in the Bible involves eating. We must develop the ability to feed ourselves properly, discerning the good and bad.
Have You Had Your Manna Today?
'Ready Answer' by StaffGod gave Israel manna to eat every day for forty years. Today, we have God's Word as our daily bread. Are we taking advantage of it, or are we allowing it to spoil?
Strategies for Escaping Babylon (Part Seven)
Sermon by David F. MaasWe draw closer to God through Bible study and prayer. Here are practical techniques for augmenting our Bible study, gathering our daily spiritual manna.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part One): Introduction
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe offerings of Leviticus, though not necessary under the New Covenant, are invaluable for teaching about Christ in His roles as sacrifice, offerer, and priest.
Going Beyond Definitions
Commentary by David C. GrabbeIt is improper to build a doctrine on one scripture, let alone the definition of a word. We need at least two reliable witnesses to establish any teaching.
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike geodes, hiding magnificent structural and aesthetic designs, the biblical types, emblems, or allegories are deceptively simple on the surface.
Writing Your Own Stories
Sermonette by Craig SablichThe Holy Spirit will bring things to remembrance when hauled before magistrates, but we are responsible for studying and rehearsing the truth.
Faith to Carry Us to the Millennium
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Kim MyersHow do we get the faith we need to endure this present age? Living faith requires that we match hearing with productive works.
One Answer to Distractions
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Distractions and interruptions caused by phone, e-mail, computers, or texting are detrimental to productivity and to the operating a business at a profit.
Four Views of Christ (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the typology of the four living creatures (Revelation 4:6-8) lies the foundation for understanding the gospels as four representations of the same Life.
Words Versus Images
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSpiritually, relying on images leads to shallowness of thought at best and idolatry at its worst. Virtually everything we know about God comes through words.
Thankfulness
Sermonette by James BeaubelleRobbing God extends far beyond the neglect of tithes and offerings, but also includes ignoring God and neglecting to thank Him for the plethora of blessings.
Eating: How Good It Is! (Part Three)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWe are what we eat. The same can apply spiritually to what we put into our minds. God wants us to desire His Word with the eagerness of a baby craving milk.
Facing Times of Stress: Always in God's Presence
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe can maintain spiritual contact using David's tactic of continually maintaining the Lord before him in his thoughts, prayers, and meditations.
Psalm 23 (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughSheep are the most dependent on their owner for their well-being. From the viewpoint of the sheep, the quality of care of the shepherd is of utmost importance.
Resistance Is Not Futile
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloSatan salivates over our discouragement, proclaiming that any resistance is futile. But we must actively resist Satan's lies and propaganda.