Playlist: Offense, Responding to (topic)
Lessons from the Story of Jephthah
Sermonette by Jared M. EllisJephthah's daughter had every right to be angry, but like her father, she chose not to repay evil for evil and instead yielded to the will of God.
Atonement: Physical and Spiritual Cleansing
Sermonette by Ryan McClurePhysical fasting provides insights to a parallel spiritual process of cleansing and removal of sin. Our High Priest commands us to let go to lighten our burden.
'But I Say to You' (Part Six): Retaliation
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFeuds often begin with an offense, whether real or imagined, setting off a cycle of retaliation that escalates into destruction and death. Someone takes offense at an action, seeks to get even, and the other party strikes back, leading to unending conflict because no one is wise or righteous enough to back down or sacrifice. …
'But I Say to You' (Part Seven): Love Your Enemies
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus' teachings on kindness and love, such as turning the other cheek and loving one's neighbor, are deeply offensive to human nature, which often resists such principles. His insistence on these virtues was so contrary to worldly ways that it led to His crucifixion, as His high morals shamed others. He shows us the way …
Taking an Insult
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingWhen Jesus commands us to turn the other cheek and go the extra mile, He did not present that option as weakness but as powerful demonstrations of spiritual maturity.
Lost and Found: The Power of Apologies and Forgiveness
Sermonette by Jared M. EllisForgiving, even when there is no apology, reflects the Father and Jesus Christ. The prodigal son is a story of the deep love we should have towards each other.
The Identifying Sign of a True Disciple of Jesus
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaThe Navy SEALs' fear is not of death, but of failing their team, parallel to the bond Jesus Christ desires among His disciples.
Strategies for Interfacing with Babylon without Becoming Assimilated (Part Seven)
Sermon by David F. MaasTrue peacemaking means emulating Christ, which that involves promoting justice and righteousness, not merely avoiding conflict or appeasing by compromising.
Does Jesus See You as His Friend?
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloJesus puts a condition on our friendship: We are His friends if we do what He commands, unlike the assumption that belief on His name is the only requirement.
Psalm 23:3
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamCasting takes place when a sheep falls over and its weight causes it to get stuck on its back until the shepherd intervenes.
Am I Childlike or Childish
Sermonette by Bill OnisickChildlike humility overlooks offenses, but childish pride causes one to strike out in retaliation when feelings are hurt or feathers are ruffled.
Pride of Life
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaWe are admonished to put out the leavening of pride and arrogance. Pride is something we loathe in someone else, but tolerate in ourselves.
Root Out Your Bitterness
Sermonette by Hunter D. SwansonBitterness is like a poison that springs from unresolved hurt, helplessness, or disappointment, leading to caustic sharpness in speech or behavior.
Simplifying Life (Part Three): Managing Human and Spiritual Relationships
Sermon by David F. MaasScripture emphasizes the importance of nurturing a deep connection with God as the foundation of all other relationships.
Be a Lighthouse
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingThe metaphor of a lighthouse aptly describes the role of the saints in a darkened world, providing hope, guidance, and stability.
Our Growing Fellowship
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloWe need to nurture fellowship with our spiritual siblings, forgiving others as Christ forgave, steadfastly resisting pride and division within the church.
The Elephant in the Room
Sermonette by Bill OnisickOne of the practices of a tare is passive-aggressive behavior, characterized by a hypocritical display of diplomacy while concealing hatred.
Sugar Cookie
Sermonette by Bill OnisickNavy Seal training has a humbling 'sugar cookie' exercise in which trainees are arbitrarily forced to endure excruciating discomfort and humiliation.
Bitterness Can Kill
Sermon by Mike FordAhithophel serves as a poignant example that we must not permit bitterness to undermine our faith that the sovereign God is able to bring justice.
Resuming Ecclesiastes (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe disappointment in the vanity of life is good for our spiritual preparation, making us disillusioned with all the world's glamorous but false choices.
Loving Christ
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Participation in Christ's life is the source of all good. Regardless of what church group we are in, we must establish a relationship with Christ.
Perfect, Gentle Courtesy (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGood manners are not just an accomplishment, but a duty that everyone must practice in order for society to move smoothly.