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Psalm Genres (Part Three B): Messianic (continued)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod knows the hearts of all people with perfect insight, a quality demonstrated supremely in Jesus Christ as He walked the earth. In discussing Psalm 15, which outlines the flawless character of the one qualified to dwell in God's tabernacle, the material highlights verse 4's description of despising the vile person while honoring those who fear the Lord. This contrast reveals the worthy person's unerring judgment and ability to see into others' hearts and motivations, reacting appropriately. Only the sinless Jesus Christ fulfills this standard completely, as the Gospels repeatedly affirm. Similar statements appear eight times across Matthew through John, showing that Jesus knew what people were thinking and what drove them. Examples include Matthew 9:2-7, where He discerned the scribes' evil thoughts about blasphemy while forgiving the paralytic; John 2:23-25, where He refused to commit Himself to many because He knew all men and what was in man; and John 6:60-64, where He addressed the disciples' murmuring and identified those who did not believe or would betray Him. These instances confirm that as Creator, Jesus possessed perfect knowledge of human thoughts, emotions, and intentions, allowing Him to respond rightly throughout His ministry. This aspect of Christ's character emerges even in a psalm not usually classified as Messianic, underscoring how such passages reveal the Savior's nature and connect to the larger theme of Messianic psalms that prophesy His life, work, and relationship with God and humanity.
Are You Living An Illusion?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsReligious narcissists, who identify with the servant who received ten talents, cherry-pick Scripture to enhance their self-love and support their views.
Fast or Famine
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod has used famine as one of the tools to get the Israelites' attention when they violated the terms of the Covenant with Him, forsaking His holy law.
Judgment According to Works
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause God sees the content of our hearts, nothing escapes His attention. He mercifully judges over a lifetime of behaviors, not just isolated incidents.
Poor Choices
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHuman beings with carnal minds, when faced with a choice between God (or a God-fearing man) or Satan (or a scoundrel) will automatically choose the scoundrel.