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Patterns of Resistance (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Joseph B. BaityAmong the patterns woven through God's Word is a recurring theme of resistance against Him, residing at the heart of every human sin. Man elevates his standing in relation to God, failing to submit to His will. This self-elevation leads to separation from God, followed by self-deception about the sin, neglecting opportunities for repentance. Thus, sinful patterns of resistance continue unabated, not only in individuals but across millions of others following the same path. From Adam and Eve's progeny, whose sins led to the great Flood, to the men of Babel desiring to supplant God with a high tower, the pattern persists. The Israelites, despite being chosen by God, demonstrated constant resistance during their wilderness journey. They complained, questioned God's will, and rebelled, as seen in the actions of Nadab, Abihu, Korah, Miriam, Aaron, and even Moses, who fell prey to self-elevation and was denied entry into the Promised Land due to his failure to submit. In later times, the Pharisees and Sadducees elevated themselves, failing to submit to God as He walked among them, ultimately leading to the crucifixion of their Creator. These patterns of resistance are not confined to the past. Today, many assemblies of God's church fragment, with individuals elevating personal agendas over the faith once delivered. Some resist God's call to assemble and support appointed leaders, while false ministers encourage defiance by preaching gospels that elevate man at the expense of God. Since each person carries natural enmity against God within deceitful minds and travels a unique path toward His Kingdom, it is easy for the adversary to deceive, leading to the elevation of personal agendas over true worship. This separation from Christ's help renders self-examinations vain. Yet, there is hope. Recognizing limitations and submitting to the perfect patterns designed by our Creator, who is the way, the truth, and the life, is the path forward. Personal agendas must radically change to please God, and with urgency, one must turn from resistance toward the Kingdom, guided by His perfect love and control.
Patterns of Resistance (Part One)
CGG Weekly by Joseph B. BaityIt is natural, as age increases, for a person to feel the end creeping up on him or her, and we begin asking how, when, where, and what is to be our end.
Patterns of Resistance
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityOne of man's twisted thought patterns has two parts: (1) We seek to elevate ourselves above God, and (2) we lie to ourselves about the first pattern.
Back It Comes
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughEvery idea that has ever been considered will be repurposed as something new, remembered as a retread idea only by old-timers who have encountered it before.
Unity (Part 1): God and HWA
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA major cause in the splitting of the church has been the wholesale rejection of the doctrines Herbert Armstrong, under God's inspiration, restored.
Faith and the Calendar (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe real issue in the calendar controversy is not astronomical, but faith in God's sovereignty, providence, and His right to assign responsibility.
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe largest portion of the great commission demands that the lion's share of time, money, or energy ought to be invested in feeding the flock.
The Five Warnings of Hebrews
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe modern church stands in danger of allowing salvation to slip away. Hebrews gives warnings to help us turn our lives around so we do not fall short.
A Government to Fear (Part Six)
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The US government has changed for the worse in the past 50 years, incrementally following collective dictatorships like Nazi Germany and Stalinist Russia.
Habakkuk: God's Power and Patience
Sermonette by James BeaubelleGod has expressed infinite patience with Jacob's rebellious children, but He has also put a time limit on their tolerance and craving for lawlessness.
The Colossian Heresy and Laodiceanism
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughColossae and Laodicea were susceptible to fast-talking teachers, whose plausible words eroded the true Gospel in favor of pagan thought and practice.
Psalms: Book Three (Part Four)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHistorically and spiritually speaking, the beginning of things set the stage for what comes after.
The Unleavened Life Is a Happy Life!
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Days of Unleavened Bread define our responsibility in God's plan to purge out habits, attitudes, and teachings that do not conform to God's way.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Thirty-Nine): Ecclesiastes 11:9-10
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe fleeting time of youth is a time of strength, exploration, and boundless opportunities, offering the freedom to try new things as well as make mistakes.
God's Sense of Justice
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod is absolutely justified in what He decides regarding the judgment and punishment of us all. However, He is merciful and always rewards righteousness.
The Christian Fight (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Christian life is a constant battle against our own human natures, this evil world, and spiritual foes who do not want to see us inherit the Kingdom.