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Love's Basic Definition

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Love is presented as a debt that we owe to others every day. No matter how much we pay on this debt in a single day, when we awaken the next morning, we owe just as much as we did before. It is a never-ending obligation, a constant responsibility that binds us to act in love continually. This debt of love is a multifaceted quality, encompassing many fine attributes, and serves as the glue that ties these qualities together, enabling their proper use for the benefit of others.

Love's Importance and Source

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

In the midst of a world marked by violence and turmoil, the enduring need for love stands paramount. Love, as a concept, is often misunderstood and misused, yet its supreme importance to life is undeniable. Within this context, love emerges not merely as a feeling or preference, but as a perpetual obligation—a debt we owe to every person, every day. This debt of love, unlike taxes or tribute paid to governments which can be settled periodically, remains ever-present. As soon as one act of love is performed, the obligation renews itself with the next person in need who crosses our path. There is no final payment; love never ends and is always useful. It is a duty that can never truly be paid in full, for each day restores the debt anew, compelling us to extend help and kindness whenever the opportunity arises. This principle of love as a constant debt underscores its role as the sum of all duties. It is the driving force behind every action, surpassing the temporary nature of other gifts or powers. While taxes or tribute to human authorities can be cleared, the debt of love persists, binding us to a continuous responsibility towards others. It is through this unending obligation that love reveals its permanence and supremacy, motivating us in ways that mere law or coercion cannot, ensuring that our actions align with the greater good.

The Fruit of the Spirit: Love

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

Love is the first fruit of the Spirit, the one trait of God that exemplifies His character. The Bible defines love as both what it is and what it does.

An Unpayable Debt and Obligation

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

When God calls us and redeems us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we suddenly come under obligation—a debt we cannot pay but overshadows all we do.

Debt and Obligation

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We live in a time when people have acquired a weak sense of obligation to family, society, or nation. Because sin cannot be undone, all are debtors to God.

The Handwriting is on the Wall (2008)

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

We must allow God to change our lives. The blessings and cursing principle of Deuteronomy 28 remains unchanged, applying to all who have made the covenant.

Self-Government and Responsibility (Part Three)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Jacob's Trouble, or the Great Tribulation, comes about because people are not meeting their God-given responsibilities: keeping His Commandments.