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Work and Welfare
Commentary by John W. RitenbaughGod's perspective on work and attitude toward it is clear through the examples He provides. The very first portrayal of God in Genesis 1 shows Him working, actively engaged in creation, demonstrating that He is not merely observing but is purposefully involved in His plan. This sets a precedent for humanity to follow, emphasizing that idleness is not part of His design. In John 5:17, Jesus reinforces this by stating that He and the Father are always working, highlighting a continuous effort in fulfilling Their purpose. God's command through the Apostle Paul further underscores the importance of work, identifying not working as disorderly behavior. Idleness is seen as a breeding ground for sin, such as gossip, and God's remedy for this is hard work. This principle reflects a divine expectation for individuals to be productive and responsible, aligning with the active nature of God Himself. Historically, within the framework provided, taking care of the indigent was a family responsibility, not a government mandate. There are no examples of a government-operated welfare system or taxes assigned for such purposes. When family support was unavailable, needs were met through local community efforts or voluntary acts, as seen with Boaz allowing Ruth to glean his fields and the Good Samaritan aiding an injured person. This reinforces the value of personal and communal responsibility over reliance on external systems, aligning with the call to work and contribute actively.
Where Is My Rolls Royce? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Mike FuhrerWe need jobs to make ends meet and have a little extra left over. Scripture lays out some general guidelines of what kind of work we should do.
Universal Basic Income
'WorldWatch' by Joseph B. BaitySome politicians are proposing legislation to give cash handouts on a regular basis - a new, permanent entitlement program without regard to employment.
An Important Reality (Part 1)
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Government unions are unwilling to sacrifice, but feel that their pay is an entitlement. Do we also feel that we are entitled to God's blessings?
Increasing Your Life Span
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsPeople entering retirement often experience degrees of depression brought about by deteriorating health status and the feeling of no longer being needed.
On Earning Wealth
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The three principles for acquiring prosperity (diligently working, wisely managing what one has earned, and meticulously saving) all militate against laziness.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Solomon emphasized in Ecclesiastes 2 that we should enjoy and derive pleasure from our work. The way that we work is a visible witness of God before men.
Where Is My Rolls Royce? (Part One)
CGG Weekly by Mike FuhrerSome scriptures seem to say that all one needs to do is ask God in prayer for whatever the heart desires, and He will grant it like a genie rubbed from his lamp.
Welfare and Christianity
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughIt is beyond question that Christians should be compassionate toward the needy. We are to lend a hand to those who have stumbled. But how far does this go?
Too Good to Ignore
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen we become skillful, doing things that perhaps no one else has done, we acquire passion, creativity, control over output, and fulfillment.
Ask, Seek, Knock
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn answer to the question, 'How can a mere human being fulfill the difficult expectations of God?', Jesus instructs us to 'Ask, seek, and knock.'
What's Wrong With the Kids?
Sermonette by Mike FordA major factor of the snowflake syndrome is the self-esteem movement, which has brainwashed young people into thinking they were unique and special.
The Commandments (Part Seventeen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWealth accumulated by honest work and diligence will be blessed, but hastily acquired by any kind of theft or dishonesty will be cursed.
The Laborers: Matthew 20:1-16
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBecause God is completely just, we have an obligation to be content with what He has given us, to allow Him to use us for whatever purpose He desires.
Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen (Part Eleven)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Talents teaches the need for diligence in using the gifts of God. God expects us to use our talents to His glory and in the service of others.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Ten)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Many of God's servants, including Elijah and Jeremiah, had their crises of faith, desiring to flee from their responsibilities and commitments.
How to Become Rich
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughGod does not measure prosperity by the ownership of physical possessions but with the depth of a person's relationship with Him.