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Self-Government and Responsibility (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe mounting pressures and tribulations of our time, as described in prophecies, stem from a fundamental failure to meet God-given responsibilities. This irresponsibility, evident across generations, is the root cause of the distress and chaos we experience, as waves of pressure crash upon us with increasing intensity. The failure to uphold commandments, starting from Adam and Eve, has led to consequences that now burden all of mankind, with the earth poised to reject its inhabitants due to this cumulative neglect. Society often shifts blame, adopting a victim mentality that excuses personal failings by pointing to external causes like upbringing, environment, or systemic issues. This mindset, pervasive in modern culture, allows individuals to evade accountability, claiming they are not responsible for their actions due to circumstances beyond their control. Yet, this approach only perpetuates the cycle of irresponsibility, as it prevents personal change and growth. God's word, however, is clear that each person bears individual responsibility for their conduct. Regardless of past influences or societal pressures, we are judged by Him based on our own choices and actions. We cannot attribute our sins to others, whether parents, culture, or even the adversary, for the choice to sin remains ours alone. As David exemplified in Psalm 51:4, true accountability means accepting full responsibility without excuses, acknowledging guilt before God, and submitting to His just judgment. This principle of personal accountability extends to all areas of life, including societal issues like economic debt. The problems we face collectively mirror individual irresponsibility, as those we elect to represent us reflect our own values and behaviors. True change begins with each person taking control of their own responsibilities, rather than waiting for external solutions or blaming others. Only by embracing this duty can we hope to mitigate the pressures and fulfill the higher calling to love God above all, rising above circumstances to meet His expectations.
Self-Government and Responsibility (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur experiences prepare us to be a better judge or king. Though we may exercise righteous judgment, we dare not pass judgment nor justify sin in ourselves.
Blame Games
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityThe tendency to point fingers at others is hard-wired into human nature. Mistakes are the portals of discovery if we admit them and learn from them.
Liberalism and the English Riots
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Liberal judges tend to place the blame on genetics, environment, or society, but never on the one who commits the crime.
Abdicate
Sermonette by Ryan McClureIn 1936, British King Edward VIII abdicated for the woman he loved. Satan's pride and Adonijah's presumptuousness urged them to leave their ordained positions.
Decide Now How You Will Respond!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhile temptation is universal, it is not irresistible; no one is forced to yield. Every temptation provides a choice between life or death, blessing or curse.
The Handwriting is on the Wall (2008)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must allow God to change our lives. The blessings and cursing principle of Deuteronomy 28 remains unchanged, applying to all who have made the covenant.
Self-Government: Overcoming
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe 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.
Free Will or God's Sovereignty?
Sermon by David C. GrabbeIf God is sovereign and promises salvation to believers, why does it matter how believers live? How significant are our choices in the grand scheme of life?
Self-Discipline
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughProtestant theology recognizes that Christian self-discipline presents a major logical difficulty in its keystone doctrine of 'by grace alone.'
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.
Simplifying Life (Part Three)
Sermon by David F. MaasScripture emphasizes the importance of nurturing a deep connection with God as the foundation of all other relationships.
Our Ultimate Purpose (Part Three)
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloIn today's society, many relationships are marked by a refusal to accept responsibility for betrayal. When confronted with infidelity, the guilty often resort to gaslighting, making the faithful partner feel at fault for the unfaithful one's actions. They offer excuses and deny the significance of their behavior, claiming it was just a mistake that can be overlooked with an adult outlook. True repentance is absent, and the wise recognize this lack of accountability, choosing to end such relationships rather than accept false accusations and repeated betrayal. This pattern of avoiding responsibility mirrors the broader societal trend of self-serving bonds, where honor and respect are increasingly rare. Jesus Christ, in contrast, seeks a faithful mate who will bring Him honor and closeness, not the disrespect and denial seen in so many today.
Jonah: Typical Israelite
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughTo this borderline-suicidal narcissist, his universe held only himself, permitting God's will for others only if it conformed to his own will.