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Growing Into Liberty
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLiberty is not granted all at once but must be grown into through an ongoing process that transforms the heart and mind. Physical release from bondage, as occurred when Israel left Egypt, removes external chains yet leaves internal shackles intact when faith remains undeveloped. The Israelites crossed the Red Sea and received daily provisions, yet their hearts retained the slave mentality shaped by Egyptian thinking, leading them to unbelief, fear of time pressures, and repeated turning back to carnal counsel. This same pattern applies after spiritual deliverance through the blood of Jesus Christ. Justification places a person in a state of freedom, yet the mind must still be renewed so that the righteous requirements of the law can be fulfilled by walking according to the Spirit rather than the flesh. Knowledge of God's existence and plan is only the starting point; without understanding the meaning of His Word and commitment to its implications for daily conduct, the believer remains vulnerable to the same insecurities and impulsive reactions that characterized Israel in the wilderness. The process advances as the Word is heard and mixed with faith, producing perseverance, character, and hope. God's Spirit supplies the power for this growth, enabling love to replace excessive self-concern and to cast out fear. When the heart is no longer dominated by the inclination toward Egypt-like thinking, the person becomes free to serve, give, and trust that all things work together for good according to the purpose of God. This liberty increases incrementally as understanding deepens and the mind is conformed to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, preparing the believer to inherit the promises rather than fall short through unbelief.
Uniqueness and Time
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur unique calling makes us a special possession of God. Sealed with a downpayment of God's Spirit, we have the obligation to glorify God by obedience.
Freedom's Dark Underbelly
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAny freedom to choose must be accompanied by a set of standards against which choices are made. The people of the world do not have this freedom.
Of Living Dogs and Dead Lions
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloGuilt from failure to overcome is a dangerous distraction. When we consider God's profound pity, we realize that He is able to cleanse us, too.
Childrearing (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIf we, as Christian parents, could shape and mold the minds of our children early, we could inoculate them against making the same mistakes that we did.