Playlist: Building Character (topic)
Magic Doesn't Work (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBuilding character is a deliberate and effortful process, far removed from the notion of instant transformation or magic. God has chosen not to create character by fiat, as instantaneous character would merely be a programmed response, lacking the essence of true choice. Instead, He develops character in His children through a …
Principled Living (Part Three): Growing in Righteousness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSpiritual growth is a fundamental principle of godly, Christian living. Once sin is removed from a person's life, it must be replaced with a life of righteousness, or sin will return with greater force. Nature abhors a vacuum, and so does our spiritual life; if we are not growing, we are receding, and sin will eventually …
Spiritual Maturity
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSpiritual growth is a process, much like the growth of a seed into a mature, fruit-bearing plant. It occurs invisibly and mysteriously, guided by God, who works behind the scenes to bring forth maturity. Just as a sower scatters seed and trusts the process without fully understanding it, so must individuals rely on God's …
From Rubble to Utopia
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBuilding character during the Millennium will not happen instantly or by divine decree. God does not change His methods, as He consistently works through a process of instruction and experience over time to develop godly character in His children. Just as we grow through years of pain, suffering, and spiritual projects to reach …
The Meaning of "In Christ"
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn order to have our inner core properly re-adjusted, we must have the state of 'being in Christ.'
Are You Fighting the Good Fight?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsBuilding character as a Christian requires active effort and personal responsibility, not a passive reliance on God to do everything for us. We must resist the deceptive teaching that suggests we should simply surrender our struggles and let God fight our battles without any action on our part. Instead, we are called to engage …
Do You Recognize This Man? (Part Four)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFruit is a product of growth requiring knowledge, work, patience, truth (light) and water (God's Spirit). Only by remaining on the vine will we bear fruit.
Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Five): Cultivating Patience
Sermon by David F. MaasNumerous scriptures show the bad effects of impatience committed by ancient Israel, while the patriarchs, Jesus Christ, and the Father set examples of true patience.
Potential for Good
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe chief tool we can use to do good (building positive relationships between other people) is to develop and exercise the mind of God within us.
Genesis 3:17-19: Consequences for Adam
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAdam sinned, having abdicated his leadership position. His posterity has been cursed with overwhelming toil just to stay ahead. We are perfected by hardship.
Magic Doesn't Work (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPeople are attracted to magic because they think it brings quick results, bringing them their desires, erasing their fears and providing for their needs.
The Christian Medal of Honor
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod rewards patient and continual perseverance in good works, reflecting an inner nobility and character.
The Most Dangerous Battlefront
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasThe most dangerous battle at hand is against our own flesh, where we least expect treachery and where we have become the most complacent.
Preparations For Christ's Return
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause of its intractability, the earth will require softening up through earth-shaking events before Christ's return, symbolized by the Feast of Trumpets.
Our Closest Neighbors
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe cannot have peace on a grand scale until we make peace with those closest to us. Without loving our brother, it is impossible to take on God's image.
The Joy of the Lord Is Our Strength!
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe true source of joy does not consist on any worldly commodity, or any self-centered, hedonistic pursuit, but instead a spiritual gift, bestowed by God.
The Great Flood (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod commissioned Noah to witness to the debased population before He eradicated it. The stark parallels to today's world should be given attention.
Learning to Navigate
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAre we navigating through life toward God's Kingdom like Jesus Christ? As our example, He has already done the heavy lifting; our job is to follow his lead.
Works of God
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe idea that the 'work of God' is equated with 'preaching the gospel around the world as a witness' severely limits the awesome scope of God's work.
Prosperity: What Is True Wealth?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsNew Testament examples reverse the Old Testament emphasis, focusing instead on upon the wealth of spiritual character, salvation, and eternal life.