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Lessons From Saul and David
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingKing Saul, chosen by God as the first king of Israel, began with humility and was endowed with God's Spirit, transformed into another man with a new heart. Despite these divine gifts, Saul's reign was marked by a critical lack of trust in God. In I Samuel 13, facing a vast Philistine army and waiting for Samuel at Gilgal, Saul's impatience and pride led him to offer a burnt offering himself, a grave sin against God's command. Samuel rebuked him, declaring that Saul had acted foolishly and that his kingdom would not endure, as God sought a man after His own heart. Further disobedience is evident in I Samuel 15, when Saul spared King Agag and the best of the Ammonite possessions, contrary to God's explicit command to destroy all. When confronted by Samuel, Saul attempted to justify his actions, claiming the plunder was for sacrifice. Samuel's response was resolute: to obey is better than sacrifice. Saul's humility had vanished, replaced by ego and pride, leading to his disregard for God's commands. His internal struggles with pride and jealousy became his true enemies, ultimately costing him everything. Saul's tragic end is recorded in I Chronicles 10:13-14, where he died for his unfaithfulness, having disobeyed God's word and sought guidance from a medium rather than inquiring of the Lord. Consequently, God turned the kingdom over to David. Saul's life serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of pride and the importance of obedience and trust in God, illustrating that the greatest battles are often within oneself.
A Contrite Heart
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe contrite or brokenhearted person finds special favor with God, and a humble or contrite spirit is indeed a precursor to forgiveness and spiritual healing.
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.
Doing Righteousness
Sermon by Kim MyersGod's church, because it co-exists with the unrighteousness of the world, is in danger of becoming corrupted or leavened by the world's example.
Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Five): Cultivating Patience
Sermon by David F. MaasNumerous scriptures show the bad effects of impatience committed by ancient Israel, while the patriarchs, Jesus Christ, and the Father set examples of true patience.
I Never Knew You
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe flesh can counterfeit spiritual attributes, mimicking genuine spiritual gifts. Some pastors have preached the truth, but from an insincere motivation.