Playlist: Bethel as a Place of Transformation (topic)

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Amos 5 and the Feast of Tabernacles

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Bethel holds a profound significance as a place of transformation in the history of Israel, particularly through the life of Jacob. When Jacob first arrived at Bethel, he was fleeing for his life, burdened by a deceitful and conniving past. Yet, it was there that God appeared to him, marking a turning point in his life. This …


Amos 5 and the Feast

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Just because we keep God's feasts does not necessarily mean we are in sync with God's Law or intent. The Israelites kept the feasts in a carnal manner.


Deception, Idolatry, and the Feast of Tabernacles

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Jeroboam, pragmatic and fearful, established a more convenient idolatrous festival to prevent his people from keeping the real Feast of Tabernacles in Judah.


Amos (Part Nine)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Ancient Israel regarded Bethel, Gilgal, and Beersheba as a sacred shrines, but were not becoming spiritually transformed as a result of pilgrimages.


Amos (Part Eight)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Amos severely chides Israel for exalting symbolism over substance, superstitiously trusting in locations where significant historical events occurred.


The Sacred Assemblies

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

The Last Day of Unleavened Bread and the Eighth Day are the only designated "sacred assemblies," which require a greater degree of solemnity for reflection.


Prayer and Seeking God

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Rather than having an apathetic relationship toward God, we must ardently, earnestly, and fervently seek God in order to imitate His behavior in our lives.


We Can Make It!

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

This is the time to make the most of what we have experienced, establishing our spiritual priorities, and reflecting deeply on why we gave ourselves to God.