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Parable of the Persistent Widow
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Persistent Widow, also known as the Parable of the Unjust Judge, illustrates the vital importance of patient, persistent, and persevering prayer. This parable, found in Luke 18:1-8, highlights the stark contrast between God and human beings, showing that God responds to the persistent pleas of His saints. Unlike the unjust judge who acts out of selfish motives and irritation to grant a widow's request for protection, God will not fail His elect as human friends often do. The parable emphasizes that if even a corrupt judge can be moved by persistence to avenge a widow he disdains, how much more will the righteous God avenge His chosen ones with justice and lovingkindness. This teaching is particularly tied to the final crisis of the last days, where the faithful remnant will face painful circumstances. Prayer will be a crucial resource for them during this time. As they await deliverance, knowing that vengeance belongs to God alone, their persevering prayer will provide refreshment and patience. The parable also underscores that prayer is a matter of faith, urging believers to resist the temptation to grow weary or discontinue praying despite delays, distractions, or doubts. God's willingness to hear and answer the supplications of His elect is assured, responding when prayers are offered according to His will.
Will Christ Find Faith?
'Ready Answer' by John O. ReidAt the end of the Parable of the Persistent Widow, Jesus asks, "When the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith...?" The answer is surprising to many.
We Must Believe!
Sermon by John O. ReidWe are asked to believe in a Being nobody has directly seen or heard, whose written word has been vilified and scorned. Without faith, we can't please God.
The Weightier Matters (Part 4) : Faith and Fidelity
Article by StaffFaith and fidelity to God and His way of life should be a major part of our character. Here is what faith and fidelity are, how to recognize a lack of them.
Faith to Face Our Trials
'Ready Answer' by Pat HigginsLife seems to be one trial after another. However, God has revealed an astounding facet of God's love that should give us the faith to soldier on.
How Much Does God Love Us? (Part One)
'Ready Answer' by Pat HigginsIn John 17:23, Jesus states that the Father loves every child of God as He loves Christ! The spiritual ramifications of this love are astounding.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe must have both perseverance and humility in prayer to keep our vision sharp and clear. Without humility, the doorway to acceptance by God is closed.
Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Eight) Cultivating the Fruit of Faithfulness
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasThe only tangible measures of faith is faithfulness, trust, and loyalty to God. We don't need to ask God for more faith, but rather work on being faithful.
The Mark of the Beast
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWill we trust God in the basic areas of life—food, clothing, and water—or compromise, accepting the mark of the beast to save our physical lives?
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHumility is not low self esteem, but instead it is a proper estimate of our relationship to God, which is a choice to act and behave as a servant or slave.
Answered Prayer Through Faith
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsFor prayer to be successful, our petitions must be specific and synchronized to God's will, but we must patiently and humbly accept God's timetable.
The Fall of Jerusalem and the Coming of the Son of Man
Sermonette by Charles WhitakerThe formula 'the coming of the Son of Man' is code for 'the Day of the Lord.' The formula does not refer to the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD, but the days ahead.
Back to Life (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIf God delays in answering a sincere prayer, His purpose is to increase faith, as in the case of His delay in providing Abraham with a son through Sarah.
Jerusalem's Fall and Christ's Return
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles WhitakerSome interpreters, called preterists, mistakenly hold that the Bible's prophecies, such as Christ's return, were fulfilled before the first century ended.