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Communication and Leaving Babylon (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughCommunication absorbs the beliefs, values, and practices of the surrounding culture into a person from birth onward, instilling them through language, casual and formal instruction in homes and schools, and the constant activity of the five senses. This process occurs with little resistance because these traits constitute the only reality known during childhood and adolescence, becoming so deeply engrained that they later resist efforts to align with God's purpose. The source of most of these traits is Satan, who deceives the whole world and exercises his rule by communicating carnal attitudes through the course of this world. Communication also occurs with spirit beings. God and Christ transmit thoughts directly into the mind without sensory involvement, as do Satan and demons, who regard humans as enemies and seek to influence conduct invisibly. Words function as spirit in this process because they are immaterial and powerful once received, whether through reading, hearing, or direct transference. The course of this world operates as an invisible yet powerful current of carnal disposition that amplifies the inborn self-centered pull, shaping the heart so that it becomes deceitful and incurably evil. This communication explains why conversion requires a new heart supplied by God, which removes hatred toward Him and enables the will to choose obedience. Without that divine intervention the will remains subject to the corrupted heart formed by Satan's influence, rendering escape from Babylon impossible through human effort alone.
Communication and Coming Out of Babylon (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAll of us are influenced by the culture of the world, guided and inspired by the prince of the power of the air. Satan has deceived the whole world.
Communication and Leaving Babylon (Part Three)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughChristians must continue to fight against self-centered and deception long after their calling to deepen and strengthen their relationships with God.
Communication and Leaving Babylon (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWe are open to invisible communication from the spirit world—communication designed to conform us to the course of this world. Recognizing it is vital.
Communication and Coming Out of Babylon (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod commands us to come out of Babylon, giving us spiritual resources to do so, including faith, vision, hope, and love. These come through knowing Him.
Communication and Coming Out of Babylon (Part 1)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe demons who already inhabit the earth look upon us as interlopers. We need to monitor our thought impulses, lest we be bothered by demons.
The Tongue: Our Tool of Power
'Ready Answer' by StaffOur hurtful words can create scars that last longer than any physical scar that sticks and stones may cause. Christians must harness the power of the tongue.
The Art of Tact and Diplomacy
'Ready Answer' by StaffMuch of a Christian's judgment will be based on his interactions with people. Enter tact and diplomacy, two necessary tools in the task of getting along.
Listen, Wait, and Then Speak
Sermonette byJames provides some of the best advice on communication and control of the tongue. The correct order of communication is listening, waiting, and then responding.
Learning from Clichés
CGG WeeklyThrough every medium, Satan spreads his values, hidden within the stories our televisions broadcast, our movies so spectacularly feature, and our songs rehearse.
Flame Wars
Sermonette byAre we part of flaming — the aggressive and offensive interaction between Internet users? Or do we pursue righteousness in our speech and communication?
Are You Sharp-Tongued? (Part Two)
'Ready Answer' by StaffJames' exhortation about the use of the tongue seems to stop with James 3:12. However, the rest of the chapter provides more wisdom on controlling our speech.
Fruit of the Flesh - On Conflict
Sermonette byAs God's chosen saints, we must not let our keyboard or mouth defile us. Godly conversation includes stifling the urge to win the argument at all costs.
Gossip
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe apostle James says that the tongue can metaphorically start a dangerous fire. He warns that gossip, tale-bearing and being a busy-body is like murder.
Our Words Matter: Are They Harmful or Helpful?
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingEmotional damage from hurtful words is more harmful to our nervous system than we have imagined, lingering long past the healing time of any cut or broken bone
Frequencies
Sermon by Ryan McClureHuman bodies have frequencies and react to incoming frequencies. As we live in the Babylonian system, Satan's frequencies penetrate into our nervous systems.
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.
Have You Become an Example to All Who Believe?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhether we are called to welcome others, speak truthfully, keep commitments, or guard our own speech, credibility flows from consistent daily actions.
The Holy Spirit and the Trinity (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBeing 'in Christ' does not refer to location, but instead our 'concern with' or 'involvement with' Him—and He with us.
Developing Discernment
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsHuman discernment can be developed and exercised, triggering early warning systems with the reactions of revulsion and confusion when confronted by evil.