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Honor Before Love
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHumility stands as the essential precursor to honor, reflecting a vital cause-and-effect principle woven throughout God's creation. Just as pride inevitably leads to contention and destruction, as seen in the fall of helel who became Satan, and in Korah's rebellion against Moses and Aaron, humility paves the way for exaltation. The progression is clear: pride brings a fall, while humility elevates. This order of attitude and conduct is a fundamental teaching, demonstrating that true change and honor must begin from within. Honor itself must precede agape love, forming a critical progression in relationships. Without placing high value on others, love becomes nearly impossible, especially in challenging situations. God emphasizes this by commanding honor toward all, with special regard for spouses, equating them to delicate vessels of the Temple. This high valuation motivates respectful and caring conduct, ensuring that love can follow. If honor diminishes, relationships suffer, and love fades, often leading to discord. Yet, God loves us even as sinners because He places immense value on us, desiring our place in His Kingdom. To achieve godly character, we must learn to value things as God does, viewing others through His perspective. This involves recognizing the worth of each person as a potential member of His Kingdom, which in turn guides us to act in love, mirroring His ultimate sacrifice. By prioritizing humility and honor, we align with the divine progression, fostering internal change that reflects outwardly in our relationships and actions, ultimately shaping us into His image.
To Whom Honor Is Due
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsDishonoring one's parents is a serious abomination, considered a capital offense by God. Fathers must be worthy of honor, teaching their children to honor God.
The Christian Medal of Honor
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod rewards patient and continual perseverance in good works, reflecting an inner nobility and character.
Doorway to the Kingdom
Sermonette by Bill OnisickAny time we feel prompted to exalt ourselves, we demonstrate Satan's spirit of pride, thereby jeopardizing our entry into God's family.
Authority: Why So Many Resent It
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPride, the father of all sins, is the source of self-exaltation, self-justification and the despising of authority. It cloaks rebellion in a deceptive appeal.
Civility and Courtesy
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSocietal incivility, discourtesy, and in-your-face attitudes (works of the flesh) have manifested themselves in the church of God, but contradict agape.
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.
Faith (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPride is a perverted comparison that elevates one above another. Because of its arrogant self-sufficiency, it hinders our faith. Faith depends on humility.
A Contrast of Kings
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe currently have no preparation for our future roles as kings and priests, but God desires to fill thousands of leadership positions in the Millennium.
The Meek
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMeekness is the opposite of weakness, exemplifying self-control under immense pressure, demonstrated by Jesus refusing to retaliate.

Two Realities
Sermon by David C. GrabbeAt baptism, we begin living in two realities simultaneously, one identified by the physical senses and the other discerned by the eyes of faith.