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The Sovereignty of God (Part Eleven)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

God is Creator, unchallenged in His position, owning everything by right of creation. He can do anything He desires with anyone at any time, including entire nations. He places nations and peoples where He wills, when He wills, and His determinations are beyond dispute. He is sovereignly involved in all affairs of men, even those with whom He has made no covenant. He knows every detail of our lives, aware of every trouble we face, down to the sparrow that falls. As the Potter, He can shape as He pleases, having mercy on whom He will and hardening whom He wills. Before birth, He chooses one over another, fitting some for destruction, and we have no right to reply against Him for what He does or permits. Reverent submission to His sovereignty is essential to truly honor Him and find peace; without it, we remain in discontent, impatient, critical, and argumentative. Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world, a staggering concept beyond human comprehension, showing His plans encompass all history and billions of lives. His ways are inscrutable, past finding out, beyond our finite understanding. Though immaculate in holiness, He permitted evil to enter His creation; though almighty, He allows satan to war against His purpose; though full of grace and mercy, He spared not His own Son; and though not willing that any perish, some face destruction. Far more good is achieved God's way than by human design, and understanding His sovereignty leads to acceptance and contentment. All sources of life and joy, both physical and spiritual, spring from Him, as He is the fountain of life and the well of strength. Despite our nature as children of wrath and rebels against His government, earning the curse of death, He is under no obligation to rescue us, yet He delivered up His Son. The doctrine of God's sovereignty exalts His supremacy, inspiring veneration; destroys any notion of salvation by works; humbles us deeply; provides a solid foundation for true religion; offers absolute security in a frightening world, as His infinite power, wisdom, judgment, love, mercy, and goodness ensure nothing can withstand His will; and greatly aids resignation to His will, not as fatalistic acquiescence, but as proving and accepting His good, acceptable, and perfect will.

Marriage and the Bride of Christ (Part One)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

God is creating a family of sons and daughters who will submit to Him and to each other, serving Him, praising Him, and reigning with Him in His Kingdom forever. The principle of submitting to one another, as taught by the Apostle Paul, is rooted in the fear of Christ, emphasizing that all Christian actions and relationships must be governed by this reverence. This submission is not merely a social good but a reflection of a life totally governed by God and Christ, distinguishing the Christian from the non-Christian who may act rightly without such spiritual motivation. Paul instructs that submission in the fear of Christ is to be applied in specific relationships—wives to husbands as to the Lord, children to parents in the Lord, and servants to masters according to the flesh—highlighting that the motive for all Christian living is to honor Christ. This fear of Christ includes the desire to please Him, the fear of disappointing or grieving Him, and a profound gratitude for His sacrifice and love. It is a fear akin to not wanting to hurt or let down someone who has done much for us, driving Christians to live in a way that glorifies Him. Ultimately, the call to submit to one another in the fear of Christ is a call to reflect His love and example, ensuring that personal relationships within the family and the church are marked by humility and unity, glorifying God in all aspects of life. God and His Son have set forth Their will, providing the encouragement and example through Christ to live out this submission without excuse.

Loyalty and Submission (Part 3)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Subjection to God is the foundational principle for our preparation for His Kingdom. Our sanctification and setting apart for His purposes are accomplished through loyalty and faithfulness to His truth. This subjection brings immediate blessings, leading to success in life here and now, just as it prepares us for leadership in His Kingdom. Regardless of our roles—whether in marriage, as employees, or under civil authority—we are to subject ourselves to His instructions, looking beyond immediate relationships to honor our greater relationship with Him. Devotion to God is the core issue. For men, subjection begins by following His instructions regarding their role in marriage, irrespective of their spouse's conduct. Similarly, wives are to subject themselves to their husbands because it is fitting and proper in the Lord, with no qualifications attached. This subjection, whether by a husband, wife, employee, or citizen, is ultimately rendered as unto Christ, reflecting a sincere and conscientious concern to please Him. God expects this subjection to be given with singleness of heart, in sincerity and integrity, not for selfish gain but as a service to Him. Husbands are instructed to love their wives with a sacrificial, volitional love, acting in their best interest as they would for themselves, nourishing and cherishing them with gentleness. This subjection to His commands removes barriers and fears, fostering peace and mutual benefit within relationships. Subjection and leadership are not about pleasing a spouse or others but demonstrate our love for God. As Jesus said, if we love Him, we must keep His commandments, actively observing and doing them. This active love, driven by a desire to please Him, separates the converted from the unconverted. Our actions must reflect our loyalty to Him, showing that we are faithful to the truth we know. Christian living requires controlling our lives according to His will, not allowing circumstances to dictate our actions. This meekness, akin to a gentled horse under its rider's direction, means retaining our power but willfully aligning it with His desires. Subjection to Him demands sacrifices, often private ones, in daily responsibilities and thoughts, always prioritizing our obligation to Him over personal feelings. God is creating leaders in His image for His family-kingdom. By loyally subjecting ourselves to Him, looking beyond immediate situations to His greater purpose, we move toward maturity and perfection. He has opened doors to unimaginable opportunities for those who remain faithful despite opposition, as our Creator, Savior, King, and soon-coming Husband. Learning this lesson of subjection is worth any temporary cost.

Self-Government and Responsibility (Part One)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We need free moral agency to be transformed into God's image. Unless one has God's Spirit, he cannot exercise the internal control to be subject to the way of God.

The Model Prayer (Part Five): Your Will Be Done

Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The prayer's third petition requests, not only that God's purpose be fulfilled, but particularly that the individual follow His will more fully.

Loyalty and Submission (Part 2)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Loyalty and submission to God (not always easy) empowers and guarantees ultimate success and leadership, actually freeing us from the fear of death.

All in All (Part 2)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

While we are not yet 'all in all' with God's purpose for us, we will, if we yield to our calling and sanctification, become at one with God.

All in All

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

The 'all in all' process has already begun. Our obligation and responsibility is to obey and yield to Christ and God the Father, conforming to their image.

Self-Government: Overcoming

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We dare not allow anybody to come between God's direct governance and ourselves. Even God's government will not work unless we voluntarily govern ourselves.

Then Comes the End

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

Christ's return marks the beginning of the end of mankind's problems. However, His return will not be the final end, which comes when God is all in all.

Should a Christian Go To War? (Part 2)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

God alone has the prerogative of giving and taking life. As ambassadors of God's heavenly Kingdom, we do not take up arms on behalf of any nation on the earth.