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Turning the Hearts of the Fathers to the Children
Sermonette byChildren possess unique characteristics that Jesus Christ highlights as essential for entering the kingdom of heaven. In Matthew 18:1-5, He teaches that conversion requires becoming like little children, emphasizing their natural humility as a defining trait of greatness. This humility, unlike the worldly desire for status, reflects a pure, unassuming nature that believers must imitate through observation and meditation. Additionally, Jesus instructs to receive children, to engage with their innocence, and to learn from their trust and openness, which are vital for a childlike attitude necessary for spiritual growth. Further, in Ephesians 5:1, Paul urges believers to be imitators of God as dear children, noting their innate tendency to watch, listen, and mimic their surroundings. This imitative behavior is a model for how Christians should follow God's example, yearning for growth while maintaining a childlike desire to be like Him rather than to surpass Him. In Matthew 11:16-19, Jesus likens the generation to children in the marketplace, calling out for attention through play and mourning, yet being ignored, illustrating a deeper call for responsiveness to God's messages. Jesus also expresses a profound longing to gather His people as a hen gathers her chicks, as seen in Matthew 23:37-39, revealing God's deep, protective love for His children. This love is echoed in Hosea 11:1-4, where God recalls nurturing Israel with kindness, desiring a close, loving relationship. Finally, in Malachi 4:5-6 and Luke 1:16-17, the restoration of familial bonds between fathers and children is emphasized as crucial to preparing for the Lord, underscoring the importance of turning hearts toward each other to avert divine judgment. Children, under the guidance of parents and influenced by all, offer lessons of joy and purity when at their best, serving as examples for believers to emulate in their walk with God.
The Century of the Child
'Prophecy Watch' by Martin G. CollinsSelf-appointed experts insist that rapid technological change requires a transfer of influence over children from 'ill-prepared' parents to 'Those Who Know Better.'
Parables of the Millstone and the Lost Sheep
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThese two parables are linked because they are the answers to the disciples' question, 'Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?'
Am I Childlike or Childish
Sermonette by Bill OnisickChildlike humility overlooks offenses, but childish pride causes one to strike out in retaliation when feelings are hurt or feathers are ruffled.
Shane and Integrity
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)If the past is good, the present can't hurt you, and if the past is bad, it will haunt you. In Wordsworth's words, 'The child is the father of the man.'
The Commandments (Part Twelve)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughParents need to teach their children to consider the long-range consequences of current behaviors, chastening and disciplining them while there is hope.
Childrearing (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIf we, as Christian parents, could shape and mold the minds of our children early, we could inoculate them against making the same mistakes that we did.
Sanctification and the Teens
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughYoung people in the church must realize that they are not invincible. Not only is God's law no respecter of persons, but also sanctification can be lost.
Childrearing (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe family problems predicted for the end times in II Timothy stem from faulty childrearing practices. We must help prepare our children for the Kingdom.
Matthew (Part Twenty-Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThose who are mature should be able to endure the slights of the immature, being circumspect not to lead anyone into sin through our careless example.
Deuteronomy: Being Careful
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughOur care in following God's instructions must be thorough, leaving no place for inattention, short cuts, negligence, or doing only enough to get by.
Be Happy (Part One)
CGG Weekly by Gary MontgomeryAs we age, the pressures of life, work, and experience all contribute to wearing us down. Only a few seem to have learned to remain happy despite hardship.
The March Toward Globalism (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Satan is cultivating vessels of destruction by turning God's principles of child-rearing upside-down, encouraging permissiveness and destroying the family.
Who Then Is In The Kingdom Of Heaven?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIn Matthew 18, some disciples pondered who would be greatest in the Kingdom. However, ambition, arrogance, and pride will keep one from even being there.