Playlist: Offertory (topic)
Principles of Christian Giving
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsWhen the early church went through a famine, the Macedonian congregation contributed spontaneously, somewhat putting to shame the Corinthian congregation.
Sowing and Reaping (2003)
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughOn holy days, we are not to appear before God empty-handed, as giving an offering is a vital part of the feasts. The amount given varies in importance from person to person, but the act of giving, combined with the attitude and thought behind it, holds greater significance. God desires that the principle of offering ourselves or …
A Motivation for Giving
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)When Paul attempted to motivate the Corinthians, he compared them to the Philippians, who were more generous with what they had than the richer Corinthians.
Keep it Clean!
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughWe are here to give a gift to God, a Being who has everything, making the act of offering seem almost impossible to match His majesty and abundance. He owns the whole world and the entirety of creation, yet He requires that we give gifts to Him fairly often out of the resources He has provided us. Giving an offering is an aspect …
Offerings and Taxes
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughDeuteronomy 16:16 does not specify the exact amount of the offering, but does ask us to make a thoughtful recollection of the benefits received from God.
Widows' Mites
Sermonette by James BeaubelleWhatever the future held, the widow's life with God would always show her love for God, no matter what the circumstances.
Why Freewill Offerings?
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughOfferings are commanded just as much as tithes, but God gives us the choice to determine just how valuable the physical and spiritual blessings are for us.
A Vivid Comparison
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The widow described in Luke 21:1-4 gave a paltry 2 mites—a mere quarter of one cent. Yet she sacrificed all she had rather than giving from excess.
Offerings and Sacrificing
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughAn offering is a gift given to God. The Bible clearly shows that the requirement for the offering was in force at the time of Adam and Eve.
It's Important to God Too (Part One)
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughGod intends that we give ourselves as living sacrifices, mortifying our carnal nature, allowing God to consume our abilities in service.
Offerings Still Relevant
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist's sacrifice was both a sacrifice (fulfilling the law, which requires the shedding of blood for expiation from sin) and an offering (freely given).
The Purpose of Offerings
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Pastor General of a well-known church made a statement that turned the giving of offerings into a competition and a rich man's game. Is this God's intent?
Supernatural Gifts
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerAttitude, attitude, and attitude should lead us to correctly estimate the value of God's spiritual gifts.
What Is an Offering?
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughMaking offerings to God is an ancient practice, following obedience as the second act of worship mentioned in scripture. Offerings are tied to the work individuals do in their normal lives, coming from the fruit of their labors, as seen with Cain and Abel. Cain, a tiller of the ground, offered something from his fields, while …
Why Do We Give?
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingThe widow who gave a mere two mites gave more than all the other contributors combined because she gave out of her poverty with genuine sacrifice.
The Meaning of the Offering
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The New Covenant sacrifices are far more demanding than the Old Covenant sacrifices. But there are poignant lessons to be learned from animal sacrifices.
Holy for the Lord
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsIncense symbolizes the prayers of the saints. Our offerings, as our prayers, should remain holy for the Lord, exuding a fragrant aroma.
Do We See God In This Picture?
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughIn Deuteronomy 16:16-17, God commands that three times a year, at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles, all males shall appear before the LORD with an offering, giving as they are able, in proportion to the blessings He has bestowed. This directive emphasizes evaluating one's resources …
Spiritual Satisfaction
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Rich Fool illustrates that, when one has all the material possessions he could want, he may still not be rich toward God.
An Offering, Sanctification and Atonement
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughWe will reap what we sow; if we sow in fear, we will reap fear, but if we sow in faith, trust, and love, we will reap spiritual and physical abundance.
The Presence of the Eternal
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsOur offerings should consist of prayer, service to others, as well as material or monetary contributions, reflecting our gratitude for blessings.
The Love of Money
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe context for the oft-misquoted 'money is the root of all evil' is a warning against ministers who wish to enrich themselves using the pretext of God's Word.
Our Complete, Whole Burnt Offering
Sermonette by Bill OnisickOur patriarch Abraham, when God tested him by asking him to sacrifice Isaac, knew that God will provide regardless of the cost of the sacrifice.
Keep It Clean
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God's Word describes the ritual harlot and the sodomite as vile dogs and the basest of people. The wages of sexual immorality would defile any offering.
Money: A Gauge of Character
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughIf God cannot trust a person to properly handle a small amount of money, He will not give him responsibility over more crucial matters.
Eternal Paradoxes
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsWe must learn to be content to be weak and powerless, realizing that, when we are poor in spirit, we receive power from God's Holy Spirit.
An Acceptable Sacrifice
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughAbel was totally consumed, becoming the first martyr for faith. Likewise, when we are called to God, we can expect to be used until we are consumed.
Money, Control, and Sacrifice
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughWealth will certainly damage our character if we permit it to control us. Riches cannot buy forgiveness, the Holy Spirit, or eternal life.
Investing in Eternal Life
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughThe concept of generously giving is emphasized as an investment in the Kingdom of God. Paul instructs the rich to be rich in good works, ready to give, and willing to share. By doing so, they are storing up for themselves a good foundation for the future, which is described as truly life. This principle of generously giving is …
Giving a Gift Strengthens and Bonds
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsGiving a gift strengthens the bond between individuals, bringing about a warm feeling in the giver toward the one receiving the gift.
Giving and Receiving
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingBoth giving and gracefully receiving are equally essential for personal and spiritual growth. Receiving fostering humility and strengthens relationships.
Dynamic Living Stones!
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsOur service and sacrifice should never be considered a burden, but a joy, declaring the excellency of God, witnessing what God in Christ has done for us.
What the Sacrifices Mean
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The sacrificial system of Leviticus typifies spiritual sacrifices which we perform under the New Covenant. The animal sacrifices focused on total commitment.
A Thoughtful Offering
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughChristianity calls for thoughtfulness, attention, and care, qualities that must be reflected in the act of giving offerings. God commands in Deuteronomy 16 to take up an offering during times of holy convocation, urging us to combine this act with mindful consideration. Offerings are good works that facilitate acts of service, …
A Vivid Comparison (2000)
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughChurches or institutions that accept offerings gained from evil enterprises accept tainted money, coddling the sinner for the sake of gain.
Seedtime and Harvest
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsLike the farmer waiting patiently for the rains, we must wait patiently for the yield of the implanted seed, the fruit God will harvest from us.
Offering From the Heart
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamThe most significant offering ever given to a dignitary—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—was given to Jesus Christ by the magi.
Supreme Permanence and Value
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsOur offerings must reflect the radiance of Christ. Only God can assess the quality of light in the precious stones He has called.
According to the Blessing
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughBecause we do not have an abundance of material blessings, we are gently forced to go back to Almighty God for our sustenance, much the same way as Israel.
An Offering Made By Fire
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughIn I Peter 2:5-9, God's people are called a chosen generation and a royal priesthood, God's own distinctive people, commissioned to offer sacrifices.
Giving Flows From the Focused Work of God
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerIf God's people keep their focus upon His purpose for them as outlined by His Holy Days, they will be able to accomplish the work God has given them.
Indifference and Offering
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Herbert Armstrong used his advertising skill to teach the truth of God, unlike the peddlers of the 'Prosperity' gospel who promise material blessings.
Assessment Now, Judgment Later!
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsGod commands us to set our minds on things above and not on the earthly, seeking the eternal Kingdom of God rather than perishable treasures of this world.
It's Important to God Too (Part Two)
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughGod does not do things uselessly, and certainly does not need our physical goods. Being a living sacrifice produces successful living.
Made By Fire
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughWe are a kingdom of priests, called to be living sacrifices, ardently serving God, with a view of being consumed or used up in service to Him.
Never With Hands Hanging at Your Sides
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerRejoicing did not become commanded until Pentecost, a joyous time in which God has brought us into fellowship with Our High Priest, enabling peace with Him.
On Earning Wealth
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The three principles for acquiring prosperity (diligently working, wisely managing what one has earned, and meticulously saving) all militate against laziness.
Elements of a Thanksgiving Offering
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsFailing to be thankful is a sign of faithlessness. The thanksgiving offering is to be emblematic of joy, freely given, and done as a privilege.
Being a True Sweet Savor to God
Sermonette by Bill OnisickThe renewing of our minds is a daily sacrifice in which carnality is continuously put to death, replaced by God's Spirit, yielding an aroma desired by God.
Abel Glorified God!
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsAbel offered his sacrifice in obedience to God's instructions. We must worship Him in a spirit of truth, bringing about a profound change in heart.
How to Become Rich
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughGod does not measure prosperity by the ownership of physical possessions but with the depth of a person's relationship with Him.
A Brief Overview of Biblical Prosperity
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughIn Proverbs 30:7-9, Agur asks God to cushion him from the extremes of poverty or excessive wealth, allowing himself to live a balanced life of contentment.
Conditions for Blessings
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsWhen people test God's promises, they come to appreciate the blessings which follow obedience to His laws. Most of the blessings we receive today are spiritual.
Money, Control and Sacrifice (2015)
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughIn the important things in life, money is powerless. Wealth cannot buy forgiveness, eternal life, or God's Spirit. Riches do not profit in the day of wrath.
The Sacred Assemblies
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe Last Day of Unleavened Bread and the Eighth Day are the only designated "sacred assemblies," which require a greater degree of solemnity for reflection.
You Shall Call Your Walls Salvation
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsThe church must keep a protective wall to protect against scattering and assimilation. We can assist in building protective walls by making sacrifices.
Greatest Offering
Sermonette by Bill OnisickGod demands that we love, do justice, and walk humbly, assuming the role of a servant rather than a tyrant, after the manner of the Gentiles.
Do Not Sound a Trumpet
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughTo call attention to one's prayers, fasting, and offerings is a display of hypocrisy. We are warned about showing off our piety and righteousness.
Grateful For Reconciliation
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must remember what we were and how far God has brought us out of that place, pulled out of the muck and brought into His glory.
Our Privilege
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughThe more we are given (and thus privileged), the more is expected from us. It is the responsibility of leadership to take care of those less privileged.
An Abundant Spiritual Offering
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe number eight signifies a new start with abundance abundance following a period of time (a week, seven years, or a millennium) of preparatory activity.
The Unknown Deadline
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeWe do not know how long the project (our sanctification process) will take. Each day is critical in doing our part to be of the same mind as God.
Don't Show Up Empty
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeWe must not think that we will achieve spiritual growth merely by passively standing in close proximity to God's word or His church; fruit requires work.
Bondage and a Freewill Offering
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerA free will offering, when deeply considered, should help us to consider each holy day more deeply the cost of real liberty God has freely given us.
The Quest for Permanence
Sermonette by David F. MaasFasting brings our heart into alignment with God. The very best offering we can present is a humble and contrite heart, put on the fast track through fasting.
Gratitude for Deliverance and God's Word
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeEven though we have heard that the Feast of Unleavened Bread signifies coming out of sin, the principal focus is that we remember God as our Deliverer.
Fasting
Sermonette by James BeaubelleThe best offering we can present is a humble and contrite heart, attainable through fasting, if done without pride and self-seeking.
The Firstfruits Declaration
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe Israelites were to bring their first fruits to the altar in a basket and make a solemn declaration to rehearse God's deliverance and abundance.
Sins Borne Away
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Day of Atonement represents both a blood sacrifice for covering/cleansing and a means of removing sin permanently from the camp of Israel.
I Love a Mystery
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Eighth Day focuses upon the Rivers of Living Waters, signifying God's Holy Spirit flowing from the resurrected saints, unlocking previously secret things.
Faith and Remembering
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeWe will not have faith tomorrow simply because we had it yesterday; we must renew faith daily by deliberately remembering God's prior interventions.
Recognizing Our Obligation
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughHow different would our lives be if God had not called us? God's intervention in our lives improved their quality exponentially, and we must respond in kind.
Privilege, Responsibility, and Judgment
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Our welfare programs have scriptural principles as their general inspiration, but they have been abused, encouraging dependency which God never intended.
Spiritual Food Satisfies
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsThose who view religion as a life of gloom and deprivation are too short-sighted to realize that the world's entertainments do not satisfy the deepest need.
Deceived by His Eyes
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughAbram learned that God gives material prosperity to those who are not seeking it. Those who seek riches are destined to fall into a snare.
Why Be Industrious?
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughTraining a child to be industrious helps him to be successful, which in turn promotes a stable family, community, nation and will transfer into God's Kingdom.
Why Work?
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughJesus said that His Father has been working continually, setting an example for us to develop a passion for creating, along with tending and keeping.
Something to Remember
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Our forebears often forgot the frequency of God's merciful intervention and declared that it was useless to serve God.
Standing Before God's Judgement
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsWe must consider ourselves cooperating with a great cloud of witnesses, who had to jettison the weights that encumbered them, making them less vulnerable to sin.
Eucatastrophe
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughEucatastrophe is an unraveling that ends up good. The Bible contains a number of eucatastrophes, including the death of Christ, a tragedy that turns into good.
Money's Power to Distort
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughWhen God challenges us to not come before Him empty handed, He is testing our character, seeing whether we worship ourselves and our security more than God.
Privilege, Responsibility, and Judgment (2008)
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Every society has its privileged class. Nevertheless, the privileged class has been given weighty responsibilities not demanded from the rest of society.
Discouragement and Trumpets
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughWhile there may be reasons to become depressed, there is no reason to stay depressed, realizing that God is with us the whole way.
The Pentecost Offering
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughOn this day, God commands specifically that we should give an offering. This day is the Feast of Weeks, one of the three times a year we are to give an offering, as mentioned in the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles. God gives specific instructions about the Pentecost Offering in …
The Only Sure Thing
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughGod is our anchor, and during times like these, that is a treasure we need to hold on to with all our might.