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The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe healing of the centurion's servant demonstrates Jesus Christ's authority over nature, revealing His ability to heal from a distance merely by the power of His word. Distance is no barrier to Christ's healing power; His word is sufficient whether near or far. As a man of authority, the centurion understood that diseases had to obey Jesus' command just as his soldiers obeyed him, recognizing that authority transcends physical presence. It was enough for Christ to exercise His will through His word, and the healing was accomplished. The centurion's faith in the spiritual capability of Christ and the effectiveness of His word to heal the sick and dying surpassed even that of others who believed Christ's physical presence was necessary for miracles. When the centurion declared that he was unworthy of Christ's presence and believed that all He had to do was speak for the miracle to occur, he showed his acceptance of the authority of Christ's word. The evidence of the healing was clear and visible; those sent to the house found the servant completely well, having been paralyzed and near death, now fully restored.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Feeding the Five Thousand (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's authority over nature is vividly demonstrated in the miracle of feeding the five thousand, showcasing His divine power and concern for both the physical and spiritual needs of humanity. Moved with compassion for the thousands who sought to hear His message, He not only teaches and heals but also addresses their hunger in an extraordinary way. Despite the disciples' suggestion to send the crowd away to find food, Jesus chooses to provide for them Himself, revealing His mastery over natural limitations. Through an act of creative power, He multiplies five barley loaves and two small fish to feed the multitude, proving that with Him, all things are possible. In handling the crowd, Jesus remains calm and orderly, commanding the people to sit in manageable groups of fifties and hundreds to avoid confusion and ensure safety. This organization reflects His authority and mirrors the orderly provision of manna to the Israelites in the wilderness. Before distributing the food, Jesus gives public thanks to God, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the source of all blessings. Furthermore, He involves His disciples in the distribution, not only for practical reasons but to build their faith and teamwork, providing them a lasting memory of His compassionate providence and a lesson in responsible service.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Walking On Water (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe miracle of Jesus Christ walking on the water reveals His direct control over natural law. His action, defying the known laws of gravity and the properties of liquid water, did not alter or suspend these universal laws but demonstrated a stronger power. As the Creator of seas and winds, He exercised His authority over them, using them as He desired. It was His will that bore Him triumphantly above the waters that stormy night, showcasing His omnipotence. In the midst of the storm, when Peter attempted to walk on the water toward Jesus, his initial confidence in Jesus' power sustained him. However, as doubt crept in, his faith faltered, and fear took over upon focusing on the raging waves. Jesus gently rebuked him, asking, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" and extended a hand to save him, ensuring Peter did not drown. Once Jesus entered the ship with Peter, the winds immediately ceased, having been overcome by His supernatural power, and the ship was instantly moved to the shore. The disciples, witnessing these events, were greatly amazed and marveled at Jesus' power. Their hearts were hardened, slow to recognize the significance of His miracles, including the earlier multiplying of loaves and fish. Yet, as the excitement of the raging sea settled, they gained a greater appreciation for the breadth of His authority, leading them to worship Him and declare, "Truly You are the Son of God." Through such stormy trials, Jesus remains near, ready to intervene according to the will of the Father, with the potential for miraculous solutions.
The High Christology of Colossians
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHigh Christology as a doctrinal stance was not enough to prevent the eventual apostasy of those in Asia Minor. Doctrine must produce the right conduct.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod not only upholds, but also guides and propels His creation, periodically overruling man's mismanagement with floods, fires, winds, and earthquakes.
Mark: Stupid, Unbelieving Disciples
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMark's gospel describes the miraculous transformation of the disciples, who began with slow comprehension, into faithful, mature apostles and fishers of men.
Holiness (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHoly things are set apart from the rest, consecrated, sanctified, and transcendentally separate. God wants to transform us into that very image.