Playlist: God's Testing (topic)
Tested: Our Trust in God's Promises
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloThere is an apparent contradiction between God's promises to protect and heal, and the persecution, health crises, and death that we all experience.
God's Tools
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaSpiritual maturity does not come about without difficulty, and suffering is one of God's tools to perfect us. Suffering refines endurance and character.
How Much Does God Love You?
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughI John 4:17 reveals the depth of love God the Father has for us as unique, special components of His creation, loving each of us as much as He loved Christ.
God's Good Work in Us
Sermon by John O. ReidDespite the privileged position of our calling, God does not cut us any slack in terms of trials and tests to perfect us. We must accept God's sovereignty.
The Continuous Testing of Our Faith
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe constant tests to which God submits His people enable them to build character by responding in faith. God perfected Abraham's faith through difficult trials.
The Providence of God (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA spiritual Israelite undergoes a metamorphosis in which his own self-centered will is broken so that God's creative work can be completed within him.
Testing Spiritual Character
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAn outward trial can be a catalyst for character development. By testing ourselves, we can take the edge off the pressure of God testing us.
How Does God Help Us? (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe trials we go through are part of His providence, putting us into humility and determining what really motivates us.
The Providence of God (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJesus and Abraham rose above their emotional pulls by exercising living faith—a faith built on acts of obedience. Faith can never be separated from works.
To Test You
Sermon by John O. ReidJesus, Joseph, David, and Abraham all endured considerable trials before they qualified for their offices. We must make our calling and election sure.
God Has Faith in You
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidIt can be encouraging to us that our patriarchs and the prophets had serious doubts, but God overrode all their fears in accomplishing His purpose.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPrayer is not a dictating to a reluctant God, but a demonstration of our attitude of dependence and need. It is a means to get into harmony with God's will.
Teaching Us To Think (Part Three): Proving God's Will
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAs God tests His people, He desires that they test and prove His Laws to demonstrate that they invariably work, to prove these principles by following them.
God's Sea of Glass (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAt the marriage supper of the Lamb, the resurrected saints, those who have faithfully kept God's commandments, will be allowed to assemble on the sea of glass.
Image and Likeness of God (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe true nature of God differs greatly from the trinitarian concept. Having created us in His form and shape, God is developing us into His character image.
Lead Us Not Into Temptation
Sermon by Ryan McClureIt is solely God's prerogative to test and to prove, while Satan's function is to tempt, to trip up, and to destroy. God tests but does not tempt.
Enduring to the End of What?
Sermonette by Craig SablichEvery previous event and decision in our lives has shaped our resultant character, including the bad decisions that led us down a wrong path.
Defining Trials
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidTrials define who we are by placing choices before us, forcing us to have faith in God. Character is built by making right, though difficult, choices.
Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Four): Providence Manifested
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe story of Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac encourages God's people that they need never doubt God commitment and ability to give them everything they need.
Change and Hope
Sermon by John O. ReidAs God found it necessary to test our forbears, He allows us to go through grueling experiences (trials, tests, and temptations) for maximum growth.
Trial by Fire
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike a loving parent, God brings just the right pressures to bear to bring about necessary change in His children. Each trial has a place in His purpose.
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.
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.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Twenty-One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Biblical wisdom (sagacity, quickness of perception, soundness of judgment) is achievable by anyone called of God because God is the source of this wisdom.
Naomi
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingNaomi, could be considered the female version of Job. After losing her husband and two sons, she felt severely tried by God while continuing to trust Him.
The Handwriting Is On the Wall (2011)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)While love grows cold because lawlessness abounds, the church may well have to go underground in order to survive. We must prepare for horrific times.
Trials: Much Needed Experiences
Sermon by John O. ReidGod uses trials to test our hearts, but He never places a trial before us to tempt us. God uses trials we bring on ourselves to draw us closer to Him.
Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Two): Love Exemplified
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe love of Abraham for Isaac serves as an emblem for the love of the Father for His Son and for all the children of Adam and Eve.
Sovereignty, Election, and Grace (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn terms of building character, God does the creating, assaying, testing, and proving; we do the yielding and walking in the pathway He has set for us.
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.
The Back Door
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaitySatan knows how to exploit the vulnerabilities of carnal nature for his purposes. Satan's tireless efforts to hack the human mind steal valuable time.
The Genuineness of Your Faith
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIn the Bible, character is not affirmed until action takes place-namely obedience to God's commands in which faith or trust in God is the dominant ingredient.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Solomon warns against bad choices in our investment of time. Our knowledge that we will ultimately die should motivate us to use our time circumspectly.
Faith and the Christian Fight (Part Ten)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike with the heroes of faith, our testing will be commensurate with the job God has prepared for us. We must make our relationship with God our top priority.
Continue to Live the Perfect Law of Liberty
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerAmerica is an experiment in self-government, successful only if the citizens remain moral. The law of liberty works only if we obey God's Commandments.
Psalm 8: What Is Man?
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingPsalm 8 declares that the Creator of the universe has our backs, keeping us under close observation and unfailing protection throughout our sanctification.
Numbers: The Book of Judgment
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe live daily in uncharted territory, but the sobering account in Numbers provides a roadmap, establishing God's pattern of judging our pilgrimage conduct.
Christianity Is a Fight! (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe most formidable foe in our spiritual battle is the flesh. We must mortify, slay, and crucify the flesh, enduring suffering as Jesus Christ exemplified.
Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen (Part Six)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsLike the four groups of seeds exposed to various qualities of soil, many have heard the true gospel, but few have remained faithful after the onslaught of hardship.
Rejoice in What We Are (2011)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Because we have been given revelation, we should have peace and a sense of well-being about life that would make the high-achievers of this world envious.
Who Do You Trust? (Part Four): You Shall Soar Like Eagles
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerEven Hezekiah, more righteous than any other king, stumbled. But Almighty God is always ready to pick us up, enabling us to soar like eagles.
Our Spiritual Wilderness
Sermonette by Ryan McClureTime after time, the children of Israel accused Moses of leading them to their deaths, failing to trust God in spite of His track record of provision.
Wilderness Wandering (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Christ's suffering was not confined to crucifixion, but also consisted of rejection, humiliation, and the duress of persecution. Glory follows suffering.
His Eye Is on the Sparrow (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We do not need to excessively fear Satan, his demons, or the world, but we should fear and respect the One who has complete involvement in our lives.
Ecclesiastes: What Is It All About? (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTime must not be wasted walking into blind alleys and labyrinths, but must be spent walking the paths God has set before us, developing character through our choices.
A Search for Identity
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod gave His approval for the destruction of the Worldwide Church of God into numerous groups, allowing heresies so He could see who really loves Him.
Love's Emotional Dimension
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLove doesn't become 'love' until we act. If we don't do what is right, the right feeling will never be formed; emotions are largely developed by our experiences.
Guarding Our Vulnerable Hearts
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaSome scholars hold that none of the words denoting rebellion are used in Jeremiah 17:9, but instead it means the heart is vulnerable and easily deceived.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus qualified as High Priest, teaching us about living by faith in the New Covenant, which mandates that we keep His commandments.
Sincerity and Truth (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe have been given the priceless gift of God's Word of sincerity and truth which has the power to sanctify. We must guard it as a life preserver.
Psalms: Book Four (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPsalms 105 and 106 describe the Great White Throne period, expressing the yearning desire to be included in His Kingdom and declaring God's praises.
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.
Matthew (Part Eleven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughLife consists of a series of choices, often a dilemma of a pleasurable choice on one hand and a difficult choice (that produces more growth) on the other.
Avoiding the Ruts of Puny Faith
Sermon by Bill OnisickWhen we have severe trials, we can experience a divided mind, exercising a puny faith. Does God find us willing to surrender to Him in all circumstances?
Ecclesiastes (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe are required to make judgments in our area of influence, in the home and in our own lives. We cannot be careless with God's standards in our own family.
The Handwriting is on the Wall (2008)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must allow God to change our lives. The blessings and cursing principle of Deuteronomy 28 remains unchanged, applying to all who have made the covenant.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 6)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe can do nothing to gain the favor of God before our calling, but we are empowered by God to carry out a particular part of His plan to edify the body.
Matthew (Part Twenty-Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe apostles' inability to drive out the demon teaches that faith is not a constant factor; it will deteriorate if it not exercised through prayer and fasting.
Principles of Church Leadership
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughA major responsibility for the fracturing of the WCG rested with the leadership, based on a philosophy of authoritarianism Christ warned against.
Being Alert to Our Enemy
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Like the cycles of the seasons, the events of prophecy follow natural progressions. God has given ample warnings to His prophets to prepare His people.
Ecclesiastes (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTime and events are in the hands of God; He knows when to relieve the pressure and when to bring on more. Looking above the sun teaches us about the seasons.
Freedom, Liberty, and Bondage
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Grace places limits on our freedom, training us for the Kingdom of God. Our behavior must be clearly distinguishable from the non-believers in society.
Unity (Part 3): Ephesians 4 (A)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod alone chooses the servants through whom He works His will. Sometimes the rationale God uses for selecting His vessels defies worldly wisdom.
The Training of His Chosen
Sermonette by Craig SablichGod does not want us to fail, so He adjusts our path whenever necessary. Consequently, He challenges us, testing us with each step of growth.
Hebrews as a Sermon (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God designed the sermon of Hebrews to motivate God's people, who are going through the same turmoil as those living in 65 AD, facing persecution from society.
Wilderness Wanderings (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Israel's trek was not only a physical journey, but a mental wandering caused by rejecting God's leadership. The potential to sin is a test of resolve.
Hebrews (Part Nine): Chapter 1: Jesus' Exultation and Christianity's Claims
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Hebrews 1:3 and Psalm 2 explain how Jesus becomes something He previously was not. Because of Christ's qualifications, Christianity has a claim on all mankind.
Asa's Laodicean Attitude
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingKing Asa started his reign trusting in God's intervention and providence, but like the Laodiceans, he finished his course weak and compromised. Here's why.
Fear and Faith or Between a Rock
Sermonette by Mike FordGod's people are pressured by this evil age. We must remember that God will fight for us; we need to wait silently and patiently for His promised intervention.
Leadership and the Covenants (Part Fourteen)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Only God's calling, followed by repentance and a rigorous conversion process, will safeguard us from the fiery holocaust that is coming upon this the world.
What Happens Next
Sermonette by Ryan McClureWhen we determine we have slipped spiritually, we need to get back up and continue overcoming rather than continuing to wallow in the muck of Babylon.
Psalms: Book Three (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIf we would keep God's Feasts properly, we would be in sync with God's noble purpose for us, defending us from falling into apostasy and idolatry.
Psalms: Book Three (Part Four)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHistorically and spiritually speaking, the beginning of things set the stage for what comes after.
Be Prepared
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God has given us clear records of what has occurred in the pass, enabling us to bind time, profiting from the past and preparing for the future.
Work Out Your Own Salvation
Sermon by Kim MyersThe seven churches listed in Revelation 2 and 3 all have deficits and strengths. God is testing us as never before; we must prepare and endure to the end.
Love Thy Neighbor (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Jesus set the bar very high when it comes to love. We no longer live for ourselves, but to Christ, who commands us to love everyone, including our enemies.
Is the United States a Christian Nation? (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)When the U.S. Congress wanted to put 'In God we Trust' on currency, the Seventh Day Adventists objected, arguing that the U.S. has never been a Christian nation.
Is the United States a Christian Nation? (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)In evaluating the dubious fruits of a false minister, we must realize that belief and conduct are inextricably linked and the linkage must be with God's Word.
Limiting the Holy One of Israel (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe limit God through our willful sin and disobedience, pride and self confidence, ignorance and blindness, and our fear of following Him.
Trumpets: Glorious Appearings
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod spoke audibly to Moses and the people, intentionally testing their faithfulness, to instill the fear of the Lord in them, and to keep them from sin.
I Know Your Works
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughContrary to Protestant understanding, our works emphatically do count - showing or demonstrating (not just telling) that we will be obedient.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPride elevates one above God, denigrating any dependence upon God, replacing it with self-idolatry. We ought to boast or glory in the Lord instead of ourselves.
Do Little Things Not Count?
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThose who ignore the clear biblical instructions for the wavesheaf offering with its unambiguous prohibitions risk the displeasure and judgment of God.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 8)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA poor spiritual diet will bring about a weak spiritual condition. What the mind assimilates is exceedingly more important than what the stomach assimilates.