Playlist: God's Presence (topic)
The Sovereignty of God (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe purpose of prayer is not to overcome God's reluctance, but to help in yielding to His will. 'Prayer changes things' is only true if it conforms to God's will.
Fellowship and Fellowshipping Are Very Important to God
Sermonette by Gary GarrettIf we lack love for our brethren who live in the presence of God, we are emulating Cain. It is God's desire that we stay in the fellowship.
God Is Still on His Throne
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe LORD is on His throne in Heaven, the location before which God's resurrected saints will occupy on the Sea of Glass.
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.
The Fear of God
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMany have inadvertently adopted a soft concept of God, disrespecting and showing contempt for God's authority and power. Godly fear is a gift of wisdom.
Where God Places His Name (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe re-establishment of Jerusalem as the world capitol demonstrates that even when God is angry, He still restores His people.
The Glory of God (Part 2): In Christ
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen we (following Jesus' example) display the way of God in our lives, bearing His name, and keeping His commandments, God's glory radiates in our lives.
The Glory of God (Part 1): The Shekinah
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Shekinah, the pillar of cloud and fire, depicts God's visible presence and protection. Yet His glory is manifested in many other ways as well.
Hebrews 2: God Is Present
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God's people must immerse themselves daily in the Scriptures. While sinning Israelites consider God to be absent, He is nevertheless present with His saints.
The Presence of the Eternal
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsOur offerings should consist of prayer, service to others, as well as material or monetary contributions, reflecting our gratitude for blessings.
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.
Where God Places His Name (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause we would die from exposure to God's glory, the name of God, reflecting His characteristics, is the only way we can approach God.
God's Sea of Glass (Part 1)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsUnlike tumultuous waves, the sea of glass before God's throne is tranquil and serene. Before we can stand on this sea of glass, we must be set apart and cleansed.
Image and Likeness of God (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe numerous figures of speech describing God's body parts substantiate that God has shape and form and occupies a specific location.
Do You See God in Deuteronomy?
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God displaced the Amorites because they had defiled the land; not one righteous person existed. Israel was warned not to defile themselves with demonism.
The Temptations of Christ: Behold, the Lamb of God
Sermon by Mark SchindlerChrist's baptism possibly occurred after His return from temptation, leading His Father to praise Him as a victor, returning on the anniversary of Trumpets.
God Is Aware
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughUnlike human beings, who are very limited in their awareness, God knows all of our secret desires and urges, which are continually open to Him for inspection.
The Absence-Presence Dichotomy and God's Spirit
Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Paul's use of the presence-absence dichotomy clarified that absence does not materially affect the Work of God because the same Holy Spirit is always present.
Knowing God: Formality and Customs (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe notion that it does not matter what we wear if our heart is right on the inside is foolish. Our clothing ought to reflect our inward character.
Strategies for Escaping Babylon (Part Eight)
Sermon by David F. MaasThe most effective way to develop a relationship with God is by developing a continuous prayer dialogue, conversing with Him through Bible study and prayer.
The Holy Spirit and the Trinity (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod personally handpicks individuals with whom He desires to form a reciprocal relationship. This relationship must be dressed, kept, tended, and maintained.
History of the Church
Sermonette by Gary GarrettThe honor roll of faith in Hebrews 11, suggests that the 31 AD dispersal of God's Holy Spirit was in fact merely a continuation of a much older distribution.
Hebrews (Part Ten)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughEverything about the Priesthood of Christ is superior to the Levitical system, which only served as a type of the access to God that Jesus would fulfill.
The Return of the Clouds
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Clouds can be an emblem of God's ability to hide Himself from some and reveal Himself to others. God is in total control of what He reveals and hides at any time.
His Eye Is on the Sparrow (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)From the beginning, God has set apart certain individuals, putting them through a sanctifying process, perfecting their character until they reflect His image.
Bezaleel of the House of Judah
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingGod augmented Bezaleel's natural abilities, not only in physical craftsmanship, but also in the soft skills of management, patience, and longsuffering.
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.
Hebrews (Part Fifteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWe dare not allow a root of bitterness to spring up in us as a result of trials - those burdens intended by God to strengthen us and perfect us.
What Is Prayer?
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPrayer to a tool we must learn to use. Because we take on the characteristics of those we are around, we should keep company with God continually though prayer.
Hebrews (Part Twelve)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHebrews 11 provides examples to bolster faith. The faith described is not blind, but is carefully developed from systematic analysis of available evidence.
Hebrews (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ's priesthood is superior to the Aaronic priesthood because Christ tenure is eternal rather than temporal, guaranteeing both continuity and quality.
Passing By in Glory
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus' walking on the water in the pitch-black darkness of early morning, revealing Himself to the disciples, alludes to the time God passed by Moses.
From Both Sides Now and the Feast of Tabernacles
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe disillusionment experienced by all living under the sun can only be cleared up under the perfect government of Jesus Christ.
Sovereignty, Election, and Grace (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod is intimately involved with the smallest details of our life, including our conception and birth, supplying spiritual gifts to carry out His work.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOld Testament activities picture New Testament realities, elevated to their spiritual intent. The church has been chosen as a royal and holy priesthood.
The Holy Spirit and the Trinity (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe receive more of God's Spirit as we respond to His calling, drawing near to His presence and reversing Adam and Eve's fatal errors.
Hebrews (Part Eleven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHebrews emphasizes the infinite superiority of Christ's priesthood and one-time sacrifice as contrasted to the repetitive Aaronic sacrifices.
Jonah: Typical Israelite
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughTo this borderline-suicidal narcissist, his universe held only himself, permitting God's will for others only if it conformed to his own will.
Deuteronomy: Fear
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen people allow fear to rule them, they lose their mind. Fear of God, however, is not mind killing, but inspires a reverential awe of the Creator.
The Shout of a King
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe prophecy in which the daughter of Jerusalem must shout to her king riding on a donkey was fulfilled when Jesus triumphantly rode into Jerusalem.
The Grand Secret!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod reveals a grand secret through David: namely, that spiritual growth will come to people who set the Lord before oneself continuously.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Thirty)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)In the matter of deference to civil authority, we must remember that we must give governing officials respect, even though they may be the basest of men.
Trumpets and the Fall of Jericho
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughOne major incident involving the blowing of trumpets occurred at the outset of Israel's incursion into Canaan, when God brought down the walls of Jericho.
Wilderness Wanderings (Part Three) - Handpicked Children
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God has allowed carnal nature to remain in His people so He can determine whether they seriously want to defeat the downward pulls of the flesh.
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 Resumed (Part Twenty-Eight)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Wisdom does not give us complete understanding into the ultimate purposes of God, but when accompanied with faith in God, it will brighten our countenance.
The Great White Throne
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBoth the time element and the significance of the Great White Throne has been lost on most of 'Christianity' because it refuses to keep God's Holy Days.
Forgiving, Giving, and Living
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod possesses attributes that are His alone, like omnipotence, omnipresence, and omniscience. But there are other attributes that become part of our new nature.
Purpose-Driven Churches (Part 8)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod has to know whether we will be loyal and our convictions are anchored in His law. The tests we are going through now are preparing us for His kingdom.
Shock and Awe - and Speed
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe world will experience the ultimate 'shock and awe campaign' at the second coming of Christ. When these events start, they will occur at meteoric speed.
The Rapture and Trumpets
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe delusion of the pre-Tribulation 'rapture' concept, made popular by the Left Behind books and movies, hopelessly messes up the timing of Bible prophecy.
Esther (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod allows each of us to experience trials and tests to humble us, leading us to repent, obey and trust, followed by an often-dramatic deliverance and joy.
Hebrews (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus experienced the same temptations and suffering we do, qualifying Him for the role of High Priest, the bridge-builder between man and God.
Offerings (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe sin offering was for sin in general deals with our evil nature, while the trespass offering deals with the fruits of that nature.
Zephaniah (Part One): The Day of the Lord Is Near!
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughZephaniah's prophecy is sharply focused on Judah and Jerusalem because they should have known better. They are ordered to keep silent and consider their sins.
Refuge! Refuge! (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe cities of refuge highlight the great importance God placed on the sanctity of life, especially in beings created in God's image.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe must have both perseverance and humility in prayer to keep our vision sharp and clear. Without humility, the doorway to acceptance by God is closed.
The Fourth Commandment (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Sabbath is a special creation, a very specific period of holy time given to all of mankind, reminding us that God created and is continuing to create.
Love and Fellowship
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFellowship with God is the only antidote to overwhelming feelings of despair, doubt, and self-condemnation.
The Father's Promise of Power!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe first fruits who have received the gift of God's Holy Spirit have a second spirit to bring the spirit in man in line with God's will.
Lessons from the Count to Pentecost
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe Sabbaths midway through the count to Pentecost represent times of faithlessness among our ancestors who complained about food and rejected God's leadership.
Living Stones
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingI Peter 2:9 reveals how precious we are to God, a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and a living stone fitted to join our spiritual siblings.
Pioneers: Our Job Is the Journey
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThough we have been given gifts to edify the Body of Christ, these gifts are of ancillary purposes only as they move everyone forward on the spiritual journey.
Psalms: Book Four: A New Day Dawns
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPsalms 97 and 98 describe the military exploits of Jesus and the saints cleaning up the defiled earth preparing for a future event described in Revelation 21:2-13.
Polluted Sabbath?
Sermon by Bill OnisickPolluting and profaning God's Sabbath means to allow the distractions of the world to prevent us from calling the holy Sabbath a delight.
An Intimate Expanding Relationship
Sermon by Mark SchindlerWe must trade our impulsive and capricious carnal natures for a controlled, sacrificing nature, imitating Christ in an intimate, expanding relationship.
Fortress of Joy
Sermonette by Bill OnisickHuman happiness is perishable, dependent as it is on positive life-experiences. Spiritual joy is infinitely more enduring than happiness based in the world.
Glory and Oneness
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIn Christ's Passover prayer, He states that the glory the Father had given Him had also been given to the disciples. Christ's glory is the key to being one.
Seek My Face
Sermonette by Ryan McClureGod turns His face away from those who have committed sin. Our entire spiritual pilgrimage is a quest to see God's face in full splendor (Revelation 22:1-5).
Fast or Famine
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod has used famine as one of the tools to get the Israelites' attention when they violated the terms of the Covenant with Him, forsaking His holy law.
Esther (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn post-exilic times in Persia, God used concealed Jews (exampled by Mordecai and Esther) to ascend to levels of prominence on behalf of their people.
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.
Offerings and Sacrificing
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughAn offering is a gift given to God. The Bible clearly shows that the requirement for the offering was in force at the time of Adam and Eve.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Eleven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Ecclesiastes deals with quality of life issues for those who have been called, emphasizing responsibility and choice, continually fearing God.
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.
Faith and Healing (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe have a responsibility to analyze our health needs, continually adjusting and changing as we learn, faithfully maintaining the temple of God's Spirit.
Deuteronomy (Part 5) (1994)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughParadoxically, humble obedience and dependency upon God strengthens us, while prideful self-sufficiency weakens us.
Holiness (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHoly things are set apart from the rest, consecrated, sanctified, and transcendentally separate. God wants to transform us into that very image.