Playlist: Independence (topic)
Of Freedom and Independence
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloIdeas of independence apart from God emanate from carnal human nature which is aligned to the rebellious mind of Satan.
Liberty or Independence?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe approach of 'I want it my way' begins with license but then leads to chaos, and eventually the loss of liberty.
Liberty vs. Independence
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe have been liberated from the degeneration of sin, the fear of death, corruption, and the elements of this world. If we live righteously, we remain free.
Freedom Isn't Free
Commentary by Ryan McClureAbraham Lincoln, in his 1838 Lyceum Address, warned that America's destruction could occur only from moral rot within, as exampled by the Roman Empire.
Conversion: Turning to God
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe are like new immigrants to the Kingdom of God; we still carry the traits of our countries of origin. We must take on the characteristics of God's nation.
We are Called to Liberty
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAs we are liberated from the bondage of sin, we are now free because we are slaves of righteousness, ironically the only true and lasting liberty.
Much Greater Than Ourselves
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsNone of the heroes of faith faced their challenges by themselves, but were aware of God's protection and power, a power much greater than themselves.
Facing Times of Stress: Contentment
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIf we trust God, we do not have to worry about the future. Having abundance and having need both have their unique problems and difficulties.
Poor in Spirit (1997)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBeing poor in spirit is a foundational spiritual state for qualifying for God's Kingdom. Poor in spirit describes being acutely aware of one's dependency.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPride elevates one above God, denigrating any dependence upon God, replacing it with self-idolatry. We ought to boast or glory in the Lord instead of ourselves.
The Spirit of Babylon
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe Spirit of Babylon is couched in brazen outlook of the goddess Inanna/Ishtar, the femme fatale who asserted her free will to overcome the influence of Eden.
It Takes a Church
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAs Christians, we need to form warm, productive, quality relationships with our brethren, actively ministering to the needs of one another.
Matthew (Part Twenty-Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThose who are mature should be able to endure the slights of the immature, being circumspect not to lead anyone into sin through our careless example.
It IS All About Government
Sermon by Mark SchindlerEvery form of human government established on this earth has been established as an attempt to declare independence from the sovereignty of God.
Corporate Sin
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe are obligated to purge our thoughts, deeds, and words, cleaning out individual and corporate sins and replacing them with sincerity, truth, and holiness.
Do You Recognize This Man? (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThough we were freed by God, we will fall into slavery again if we do not maintain our vigilance. Our forbears never learned to live as free men and women.
Life, Fortunes, Sacred Honor
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMany of the Declaration's signers literally lost their fortunes, properties, and health—even their lives. Are we willing to commit ourselves as fully?
Jesus and the Rebellious Son
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe law for stoning a rebellious son was never recorded as having been carried out, but ironically the nation put to death the maximally obedient Son.
The Doctrine of Israel (Part Three): A Cycle of Rebellion
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIsrael consistently cycles through God's deliverance, apostasy through idolatry and immorality, God's chastening, national repentance, then deliverance again.
What's So Bad About Babylon? (2003) (Part 1)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe world's political, religious, economic, and cultural systems pose a danger to God's people, but God wants us to work out His plan within the Babylonian system.
Why Count Fifty Days?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Bible has much to say about the number fifty, such as counting 50 days to Pentecost, the measurements of the Tabernacle, and the 50 year Jubilee.
Deuteronomy: What Is God Looking For?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Deuteronomy constitutes instruction for the Israel of God, serving as a compass and guide, preparing God's people to enter the Kingdom of God.
Freedom and Unleavened Bread
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughChristian freedom has nothing to do with location or circumstance but how we think. By imbibing on God's Word, we will incrementally displace our carnality.
God Gives Grace to the Humble
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGenuine humility is one of the most elusive characteristics a person can attain. It consists of of self-respect accompanied by a genuine desire to serve.
Amos (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe favorite-son status of Israel was conditioned on accepting the terms of the covenant with God. Israel, then and now, has placed her trust in material things.
Notes from the Trail
Sermonette by James C. StoertzAt the Feast of Tabernacles, we live in temporary dwellings, mirroring our temporary lives. Hiking and backpacking can teach us valuable things about this journey.
Discern and Distinguish Between Spirits
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsInspiration and doctrine were meant to be complementary rather than adversarial. Many believe they have found new truth when they have recycled old heresies.
Repentant Goats
Sermon by Bill OnisickBecause of our carnal natures, we have many goat-like tendencies, leading us to do it our own way. Like stubborn billy goats, we are short on longsuffering.
Lessons From the Animals
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMankind has been given dominion or responsibility for the care of animal life, preserving and embellishing their environment, as God would take care of them.
Matthew (Part Twenty-Five)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus contrasts the enormity of what we are forgiven to what we forgive others. Our forgiveness is directly connected with our forgiveness of our brother.