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What Is the Work of God Now? (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe concept of the Whole Counsel of God emphasizes the breadth and depth of God's teachings as revealed in the entirety of the Bible. It is not limited to merely preaching the gospel to the world as a witness, but encompasses the full spectrum of spiritual instruction necessary for the preparation of God's children for His Kingdom. This includes the ongoing process of conversion, feeding, growing, and overcoming, which are vital for forming Christ in us. The Apostle Paul's desire to preach the gospel to already converted congregations, such as those in Rome, highlights the importance of continually delivering the Whole Counsel of God in infinite detail to sustain spiritual strength and faith among the flock. God's primary concern is the eternal relationship and fellowship with His children, requiring an expansive understanding and application of His way of life in every possible situation. This comprehensive approach ensures that the church's focus is not narrowly confined to one task, but embraces the diverse responsibilities and experiences God assigns to prepare us for His purpose.
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe concept of the whole counsel of God is central to the mission of making disciples, as emphasized in the great commission. In Acts 20:27, Paul declares that he has not shunned to proclaim all the counsel of God, indicating that a disciple is not formed merely by preaching the gospel as a witness. There is a profound difference between the two approaches. Creating a disciple of Christ requires extensive preaching, personal study, prayer, meditation, fellowship, and experience in a relationship with the Father, the Son, and the church. As Jesus instructed in Matthew 28:20, disciples must be taught all things whatsoever He has commanded. Preaching all the counsel of God is a lengthy process, essential to feeding the flock, and it demands significant time, effort, manpower, and resources to be devoted to the church. This focus on comprehensive teaching and nurturing within the church is a critical component of fulfilling the great commission, far beyond merely proclaiming the gospel to the world.
God's Powerful Gospel
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPaul declares that he has not shunned to declare the whole counsel of God to the Ephesian elders, meaning he committed to them the entire revelation of God, all that pertains to His purpose and their eternal salvation. He had preached the truth publicly and from house to house for three years, giving them everything they needed so that no blood would be on his hands if they later turned aside. This complete declaration encompassed the gospel of the Kingdom of God in its fullness, including not only the announcement of the coming Kingdom but also every preparatory element required to reach it: repentance toward God, faith toward Jesus Christ, the law, grace, loyalty, the history of Israel, creation, and all teachings that call, teach, correct, and motivate a person toward salvation. The whole counsel functions as the dynamic power of God, living and active like a two-edged sword that pierces the heart, destroys sin and every contrary thought, builds righteousness and holiness, and continually moves believers from faith to greater faith until they attain the inheritance among the sanctified. By delivering this full message without compromise or omission, Paul fulfilled his ministry, entrusted the elders to God and the word of His grace, and modeled the only approach that produces sons in God's image for the Kingdom.
Approaching God Through Christ (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughReligious bumper stickers fall short of revealing the full counsel of God, which is more complex than 'believe on the Lord Jesus and you shall be saved.'
What Is the Church's Work Today (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe hardest part of God's work is the feeding of the flock the full counsel of God, to get the called-out ones ready to enter the Kingdom of God.
The True Gospel (Part 4)
CGG Weekly by Richard T. Ritenbaugh'Kingdom of God' describes God's dominion, rule, and governance. Jesus points to a future establishment of God's Kingdom on the earth, yet it also rules now.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The responsibility given to the church Christ has called out of this world is to expand His teachings, magnifying them and making them clear and honorable.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The modern nations of Israel, by turning its back on the truth, has blown its opportunity for moral leadership every bit as much as ancient Judah did.
According to My Gospel
Sermonette byPaul's believed that there is only one gospel and used the terms 'gospel of God' and 'gospel of Jesus Christ,' teaching the same things as Jesus Christ.
Government (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe ministry's authority consists of teaching, edifying, and equipping the members for sainthood, but not to wield dictatorial power over their lives.
Strategies for Escaping Babylon (Part Seven)
Sermon by David F. MaasWe draw closer to God through Bible study and prayer. Here are practical techniques for augmenting our Bible study, gathering our daily spiritual manna.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Book of Hebrews is a must-read for all members of God's church who seek the key for spiritual growth through a meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ.
Our Trusted Source of Truth (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Olivet Prophecy lists deceit as the first danger confronting Christians who will be living in the disinformation age, strong enough to deceive the elect.
Is the Christian Required to Do Works? (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWhy do so many nominal Christians reject works and obedience to God's law? Largely because they fail to gather God's whole counsel on this subject.