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Hospitality
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHospitality, rooted in the ancient Greek concept of xenia, describes a reciprocal and divinely sanctioned relationship between guest and host that forges lifelong bonds from an initial encounter between strangers. The term derives from xenos, encompassing meanings of stranger, foreigner, guest, host, and friend, and surpasses the modern notion of hospitality as mere courteous kindness by imposing mutual duties whose abuse could spark conflict. Scripture presents this practice without employing the Homeric term, instead favoring philoxenia, the love of strangers, as a commanded virtue. In the Old Testament, God models hospitality by loving the stranger and supplying food and clothing, requiring Israel to do likewise because they once were strangers in Egypt. The New Testament reinforces this duty through commands to entertain strangers, distribute to the needs of the saints, and pursue hospitality without grumbling. Such acts follow a hierarchy of giving that begins with God, extends to one's household, then to fellow believers, and finally to outsiders, all while exercising wise stewardship of resources. Hospitality forms an essential component of Christian conduct, listed among behaviors that flow from presenting oneself as a living sacrifice and from brotherly love. It serves as practical service that strengthens fellowship, counters apathy amid trials, and prepares believers for end-time pressures by forging enduring bonds. Elders must exemplify it, and ministers receive it as part of supporting the work of preaching the gospel. Warnings against extending it to deceivers underscore its role in advancing truth rather than evil. Ultimately, hospitality reflects God's own character as the Host who provides for all creation and who will serve His people at the Marriage Supper. Practicing it cultivates the welcoming nature required for entrance into His Family, binding the church in unity and mutual care.
Friends of the Friendless (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by John ReissTrue worship of God is more than just not sinning but also visiting the widows and the fatherless. These categories represent all who are weak and lack support.
Am I My Brother's Keeper?
Sermon by Bill OnisickBelievers are crafted to be the caretakers of all that belongs to God, accountable for how we serve, nurturing both His creation and His people.
Lydia
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingCombining her intense work ethic and her faithfulness to Almighty God, Lydia could serve as the exemplification of the Proverbs 31 woman.
How to Conduct Ourselves as Ambassadors for Christ
Article by David F. MaasThe apostle Paul calls Christians 'ambassadors of Christ.' Our commission parallels what this world's ambassadors do and how they present themselves.
Take Heed and Remember the Less Fortunate
Sermon by Kim MyersWhen a nation loses its morals, people feel free to take advantage of one another, especially the poor. God hates seeing the poor oppressed.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Bible contains 700 references to the act of eating. Eating reminds us that God's provision and human need also apply on a spiritual level.
Back to Basics
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIncreasing knowledge without the capacity to process it leads to insanity. To combat information overload, we must get back to the basics of Christianity.
Prayer and Persistence
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPersistence in prayer does not mean an incessant pestering God into action. God always looks at our petitions from the vantage-point of His purpose.
'Let Brotherly Love Continue'
CGG Weekly by John ReissBrotherly love should be a significant part of a Christian's life, and the Bible instructs us how we can show this love for one another.
Burying Our Talents?
Sermonette by Bill OnisickGod expects a return on the investment He has placed in us. Doing nothing with our abilities is a grievous abuse of this trust.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Five): The Peace Offering, Sacrifice, and Love
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe peace offering teaches many things, but one of its main symbols is fellowship. Our communion with the Father and the Son obligates us to pursue peace.
Do The First Works
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughWe also need to return to our first love and diligently do the first works, including fellowship, continuing in the doctrine, and doing things properly.
Hebrews (Part Fifteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWe dare not allow a root of bitterness to spring up in us as a result of trials - those burdens intended by God to strengthen us and perfect us.
The Epistles of II and III John (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJohn warns Gaius of the treachery of Diotrephes, who had initiated a mutiny against God's true ministers, putting out of the church those who did not follow him.
Eating: How Good It Is! (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Bible frequently uses analogies from physical life to explain spiritual principles. There are over 700 references to eating in Scripture.
The Epistles of II and III John (Part One)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIn our quest for unity, we can never compromise with the truth. True love between brethren is impossible without an equal pr greater love for the truth.
Hebrews 12 and 13: Advice for the End Time
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must lay aside every weight, accept God's chastening, receive encouragement from those who have gone before, and get back into the spiritual race.