Playlist: Gospel, Preaching (topic)
God's Powerful Gospel
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe true gospel includes the complete revelation of God of His plan to reproduce Himself. If a gospel does not produce repentance and faith, it is false.
False Gospels
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughA major clue for discerning false gospels is that any teaching attempting to change the nature of God or Christ or their doctrines is anti-Christ and false.
CGG Anniversary: Summary and Thank You
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughOn this 11th anniversary of CGG, John Ritenbaugh reflects on the expectations, the accomplishments, and the prospects for the future of our part of God's work.
Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIf we lose sight that Jesus is the head of the Church, we will forget that Christ is currently purifying His Church, sanctifying those called to be His family.
A View of the Work
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeJudging the quality of our work by numeric standards is not a measure of spiritual growth, and to equate it with spiritual growth in rank Laodiceanism.
What Is the Church's Work Today (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe hardest part of God's work is the feeding of the flock the full counsel of God, to get the called-out ones ready to enter the Kingdom of God.
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe preaching the gospel to the world is at best the beginning of a complex process of creating disciples through steady feeding and encouragement to overcome.
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTo preach to the world and ignore a disintegrating flock is like a husband and wife paying attention to other people while the family is falling apart.
Billy Graham's Death
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Billy Graham was dubbed 'America's pastor.' Four traits that endeared him to people were persuasive oratory, courage, morality and humility.
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughNeglecting to feed the flock has been detrimental to preaching the gospel to the world. Because of neglect, members succumb to feeling insignificant.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The true church is a unique educational institution, teaching the way of God and amplifying His Commandments, in contrast to the churches of this world.
What Is the Church's Work Today (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe easiest part of God's work is preaching the gospel to the world. Much more demanding is the feeding of the flock, producing life-changing faith.
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe largest portion of the great commission demands that the lion's share of time, money, or energy ought to be invested in feeding the flock.
What Is the Work?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe work of God does not always stay the same, continually shifting media, techniques, and approaches, similar to the Israelites following the Cloud.
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.
Hebrews as a Sermon (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Even as Hebrews prepared the first century church for persecution, so it is also relevant to today's church as it faces an increasing assault on God's law.
Acts (Part Thirteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIn Acts 13, the false prophet Elymas is cursed with blindness, providing the witness prompting the Proconsul Sergius Paulus to become converted.
Acts (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughOur historical and theological roots are advanced in a polished, chronological narrative (Acts), perhaps designed as a trial document authored by Luke.
Acts (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe book of Acts could have been an exculpatory trial document designed to vindicate Paul and the early church, showing that Christianity was not a threat.
Suffering Disgrace For Christ's Name
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe can always expect new challenges, including persecution, and must never be content with standing still, but must press on to spiritual maturity.
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe scattering of the church was an act of love by God to wake us from our lethargic, faithless condition. The feeding of the flock is the priority now.
Avoiding Superficiality
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSuccess in spiritual things does not consist in growing large and powerful, but humbly living by faith, overcoming, and yielding to God's shaping power.
What Is the Church's Work Today (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe primary focus at this time is the repair of the faith once delivered that has seriously deteriorated because of heresy, apostasy, and Laodiceanism.
Acts (Part Eighteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughOn Paul's second evangelistic campaign, he preaches in southern Turkey and western Greece. He tries to go north but is prevented.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The responsibility given to the church Christ has called out of this world is to expand His teachings, magnifying them and making them clear and honorable.
The Purpose of the Church
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe function of the church is like a teacher's college, preparing the firstfruits and providing them with the needed education and character development.
Acts (Part Twenty-Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAgrippa was knowledgeable about Jewish customs, so Festus brought him in to hear Paul's case, which lincluded his conversion and ministry.
Facing Times of Stress: When God is Silent (Part Four)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPaul demonstrated inner peace during turmoil, showing consistency in times of instability and faith in God during persecution, fulfilling the role God gave him.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The socio-cultural milieu before the writing of Hebrews created difficulties for the Jewish converts to the Gospel, who were deemed to be traitors.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Each member has been gifted by Christ. We must not go beyond the gifts that have been given to us, but must use them humbly, employing them to edify.
Faith and Technology
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeAs technology becomes more available, the material world threatens to crowd God out of the picture. The information age will destroy us unless we manage it.
Acts (Part Fifteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughActs 15 focuses upon the Council of Jerusalem, discussing the controversial subject of circumcision and its relationship to salvation.
The Doctrine of Israel (Part Six): New Testament Teaching
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThose who follow Christ are the true Israel, the Elect, and the Chosen, called by God to precede unfaithful physical Israel in the salvation process.
The Messenger of Christ
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHerbert W. Armstrong was single-minded about preaching the Gospel. The scattering of the church could have been caused by members making him a type of idol.
Acts (Part Twelve)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul and Barnabas developed the church in the cosmopolitan city of Antioch, the location from where the term 'Christian' originated.
Facing Times of Stress: When God Is Silent (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhat appeared to be a series of judicial set-backs for Paul was actually the outworking of God to place him before even higher levels of secular leadership.
His Eye is On the Sparrow (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)As God has His eye on the sparrow, He has had His eye on us through the entire process of scattering so the tests we have endured will bear good fruit.
Where Did The Original Apostles Go?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe Scriptures are largely silent about the exploits of the apostles other than Paul. We have only general comments concerning their spheres of activities.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The book of Hebrews clarifies that the persecution on the early church did not come directly from God, but He did stir the pot that caused the persecution.
Revelation 10 and the Church's History
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRevelation 10 contains the seven thunders and the little book. It serves as an inset, not following a linear time sequence of the book of Revelation.
Buying and Selling
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe False Prophet compels all to take the Mark of the Beast or be prevented from buying and selling. But 'buying and selling' what?
The Source of Church Characteristics (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The seven churches of Revelation 2-3 all existed simultaneously and the characteristics of five of them will apparently be extant at the return of Christ.
To Him Who Overcomes (Part Two): Enduring to the End
Sermonette by Levi W. GrahamThough God gives us His Holy Spirit, we have no free pass into His kingdom, and we will have to endure our share of tribulation.
The Philadelphia Syndrome
Commentary by David C. GrabbeThe Worldwide Church of God considered itself to be the 'Philadelphia era,' but the fruit has been misplaced trust, idolatry, competition, and exclusivity.
How Much Do You Value the Kingdom of God?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMartyrdom is not a penalty because a person has failed to qualify for the Place of Safety; rather, it is a badge of honor for those who have overcome.
Israel's Restoration and the Zeitgeist of Zeal
Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)After the Tribulation, God promises to restore Israel to the promised land where she will have a chance to learn and live God's truth in the Millennium.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The frightful conditions during the 1st century are typical of the times ahead. To weather these circumstances, we need the encouragement of Hebrews.
The Post-Resurrection Last Words of Christ (Part One)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe must be involved in proclaiming His message, feeding the flock, living His example, assuming the responsibilities of our awesome commission.
'All Mine Are Yours!'
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsChrist prays for us as He did for His original disciples because we, too, have been called by the Father. Christ values us because the Father values us.
What Every Christian Must Know
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsI John is a very encouraging epistle, giving us a testimonial of what God has done. It teaches that there are foundational things every Christian must know.
The Two Witnesses (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe first major concern of the Two Witnesses will be directed to the church rather than to the world at large, expunging worldliness out of the church.
Going On to Perfection
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEven though everything we need in this quest has been given to us, our spiritual growth depends on believing in the promises of receiving the divine nature.
Revelation 10 and the Laodicean Church
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRevelation 10 and 11 describe a time before the Tribulation and the Day of the Lord, a time when the last of the seven thunders rumbles to a faint whimper.
Titus (Part Two): A Faithful Ministry
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughTitus had the remarkable ability for being a problem solver, exercising tact, diplomacy, strength, stability, and leadership when sent to problem areas.
Hebrews (Part One): The Stage Is Set
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Early converts from Judaism claimed to accept the Law but had difficulty accepting the Lawgiver. Today, many claim to accept Christ, but will not accept His Law.
Jesus on His Second Coming
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughOnly the Father knows the precise time of Christ's return, but the message to all Christians is to be vigilant and busy overcoming that we may see Him in glory.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Four)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Satan can fine-tune the course of this world (Zeitgeist), customizing it depending on whom he may seek to murder. We need to be thinking and vigilant.
Peter's Pentecost Sermon
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe signs that accompanied Peter's Pentecost sermon attracted attention, confirmed God's Word, and provided meaning to the effects of the Holy Spirit.
Christ's Mission Statement
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughLuke 4:16-21 and Mark 1:14-15, statements from Christ made at approximately the same time, constitute the composite mission statement directed at His disciples.
God's Special Presence and Direct Intervention
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe scattering of the early church strengthened it, allowing fresh seed to be scattered in new fields. The 'bad' thing actually increased the church's power.
The Works of the Devil Destroyed
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSatan and his demons know that their time is short and are determined to destroy as many people as possible, especially the Israel of God.
The Two Witnesses (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod's truth may bring about sadness, astonishment, anger, and bitterness to the one delivering the message. James and John were types of the Two Witnesses.
Itching Ears
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFalse ministers pander to the 'itching ears' of the audience, telling it what it wants to hear, catering to desires and lusts, fatally mixing truth with error.
Philippians (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul expresses joy and camaraderie more with the congregation at Philippi than any other, appreciating their selflessness, generosity, and sacrifice.
Tithing: 'Try Me Now!' (Part One)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe tithes did not belong to the Levites, but to God who commanded their services on behalf of the people. Refusal to tithe robs God.
Start Now to Begin Walking
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The things of God require digging; it is time to walk step-by-step to the finish of the cause He has called us to complete.
The 'Rest' of Hebrews 4
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIf we patiently endure, trusting in God's faithfulness to bring us to completion, there will be a time when we will attain the rest we desperately yearn for.
Intimacy with Christ (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe must guard our time, not allowing busyness and involvement with activities of the world to prevent us from forming a deep intimacy with God.
Love and Works
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod expects works from all He has called. We show our faithfulness and loyalty to God by our works or conduct - what we produce by what we have been given.
Philippians (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul both appealed for unity among the Philippians and offered encouragement, reminding them that their relationship with one another was through Christ.
Acts (Part Nineteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul encountered persecution but also saw his work bear fruit. He was driven from the synagogue, but paradoxically won over its leader, Crispus.
Lessons From First-Century Christianity
Sermon by David C. GrabbeEven though the believers of the first century experienced extraordinary events, because of entropy, their zeal atrophied after the shockwaves dissipated.
Facing Times of Stress: Persecution
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPersecution involves a wide spectrum, ranging from torture, physical beating, social excommunication, imprisonment and death. Our boldness should match Paul's.
The Two Witnesses (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Two Witnesses have authority from God to annihilate those who interfere with their work as well as power over weather patterns and natural elements.
Tithing
Sermon by John O. ReidThis comprehensive overview of tithing explores the attitudes we should have toward tithing, the purposes of the tithe, and the benefits of tithing.
Philippians (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul conveyed to the Philippians his optimism that his imprisonment was actually a blessing, enabling him to magnify his effectiveness and bear more fruit.
Acts (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughStephen points out that historically, God has dealt with His people without land or temple, but instead through deliverers, initially rejected by their own.
John (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJohn presents Jesus, not as a phantom emanation, but as the reality, transcending the shadows represented by the temporal physical life.
Matthew (Part Twenty-One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe Pharisees and Sadducees, who normally opposed each other, joined forces against their common enemy, Jesus. They should have recognized Him as the Messiah.
Abraham (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham was willing to lay down his life to rescue his nephew Lot. His sacrifice shows us what kind of effort and sacrifice is needed to wage spiritual war.
Casting Pearls
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus warns His disciples not to cast their pearls before those not called or those acting contemptuously to God's truth and would attack the messenger.
Those Who Mourn
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWorldly sorrow leads to death while godly sorrow leads to repentance and life. After godly repentance, sorrow is swallowed up in profound joy.
Titus (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe have the commission to be witnesses to a corrupt society. It is in the closeness of the crowd that we have the greatest potential to grow spiritually.
Think on These Things
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe epistle of Philippians contains some valuable advice to God's people today, having suffered some grievous trials which have bonded them together.
Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Three): Hope Demonstrated
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's resolute intent to sacrifice Isaac displayed his unreserved devotion to God's purpose for him. We must display the same kind of tenacity.
How Does God View Human Government?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAs obnoxious as tyrannical power may seem, we have the obligation to behave lawfully. Even the vilest of leaders has been allowed by God to rule.
The Present Harvest (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Christ empowers His disciples to preach and heal. He is saying there will be an incomplete work of healing and preaching in the run-up to His return.
Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen (Part Four)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe Arnoldists, Albigenses, Cathers, Waldensians, and the Lollards all had Sabbath-keepers in their ranks. Gradual syncretism is a pattern of church history.
They Could Not Destroy It!
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsMiraculously, each attempt to destroy the Scriptures resulted in the printers doubling their production. Christ has always supplied the means to spread the Word.
A Famine of The Word (Part One)
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsBillionaires have commandeered Apple, Twitter, Google, and Facebook, all ostensibly created for promoting free speech, for the purpose of censoring comments.
Shrugging Off Scoffers (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAny prophetic speculation, accurate or not, is useless unless it is promotes diligence in living godly lives, eagerly preparing for the return of Christ.
Death, or Not A Hair of Your Head?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsOur challenge in the wake of the terrible things we witness now is to retain confidence that God is in control, even though our faith will be sorely tested.
The "Open Door" of Philadelphia
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeMany have misunderstood the 'open door' reference in the letter to Philadelphia. It refers to Isaiah 22:15-25, which describes the role of Eliakim the steward.
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.
The Sixth Century Axial Period (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)A prophet is one who carries a message from another. A true prophet's message will derive from existing Scripture, even if he is breaking new, unexplored ground.
Themes of I Corinthians (Part 1)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughCorinth was at the crossroads of trade routes, abounding in religious syncretism. Paul's letter to the Corinthians instructs us how to live in a wicked society.
Christian Service
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAlthough selfless service is not valued today, it is at the core of God's character and a trait we must emulate to go to a higher level of Christian living.
The Two Witnesses (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod wants us to recognize prophecies as they occur or shortly afterward. To cling to an interpretation before the events happen leads to missing vital details.
The Kingdom of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Kingdom of God includes a King, territory, citizenry, and laws. The term kingdom (Greek basileia), has a past, present and future application.
Revelation 2-3 and Works
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe letters in Revelation 2 and 3 are for the end times, shortly before Christ's return. Each emphasizes repentance, overcoming, and judgment according to works.
Matthew (Part Fifteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe commission to the disciples evolves from their initial orders to go to the House of Israel to their ultimate commission of going to the Gentiles.
Matthew (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Jesus resisted Satan with the knowledge of God, resisting appeals to vanity, using power selfishly resisting to lust of the flesh, eyes, and pride of life.