Playlist: Character, Built by Trials (topic)
Trial by Fire
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTrials are an essential part of our journey, shaping and refining our character as we progress toward the Kingdom of God. They are not merely obstacles but necessary experiences that build strength and understanding through practical, lived encounters with His purpose. As seen with Israel in the wilderness, trials were the very …
Facing Times of Stress: Grieved by Various Trials
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsUnder the same influence of circumstance and environment, individuals react differently, just as various materials respond uniquely to fire. One person is made better and stronger by trials, while another weakens or withers away. It is not merely what happens to us or what God allows, but how we have prepared and developed …
Trials Are a Gift From God
Sermon by Mark SchindlerTrials in life, whether they stem from day-to-day struggles or severe physical and emotional challenges, are profound opportunities for growth. They are not merely obstacles but gifts from God, designed to awaken dormant powers and focus energies that might otherwise remain untapped. Just as Alexander de Seversky discovered that …
Defining Trials
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidThe trials and tests we endure are a vital, though less discussed, aspect of our Christian calling, defining who we are before God. These trials are designed to change our very mind and nature into those of God and Jesus Christ through obedience to His laws. The testing of our faith holds tremendous value, proving if it is pure …
Testing Spiritual Character
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe live in a society that thrives on illusions, often obscuring the truth about ourselves. God seeks to know what we are truly like and reveals our standing in relation to Him by constantly testing our spiritual character. A Christian's life is a time of reality building, not illusion, with the purpose of building character akin …
Trials: Much Needed Experiences
Sermon by John O. ReidAs the Passover season nears, an expectation of trials often emerges among God's people, a pattern observed over many years where challenges intensify around the spring holy days. This year, the trials have not abated after Passover as they typically do; instead, they persist and even grow stronger, prompting questions about …
No Longer Brain Dead
Sermon by Mark SchindlerAs God teaches us spiritual things, He expects us to act less like blockheads and more like adults, making the truth of God the bedrock of our lives.
God Is Preparing Us For the Kingdom
Sermon by Kim MyersToday, the church is experiencing more overwhelming trials than ever before, indicating that God is preparing His people for the end time.
Hope in a Turbulent World
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Greek and Roman myths have shaped the world view of Western culture, including our attitude toward hope, a concept which is often abused and distorted.
Motivation to Endure
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidWithout daily contact with God in prayer and Bible study, and without continual contact with the brethren, we may lose the determination to persevere.
Are You Sure You Believe in God? (Part Three)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsReal saving faith is a gift from God, but we are obligated to walk by this faith, developing incremental levels of faith through obedience.
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.
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.