Dealing With a Sinning Brother
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, reflecting on the incident of the blatant sinner in I Corinthians 5, observes Paul's administrative decision to disfellowship the offender pending his repentance, lest he contaminate the entire Corinthian congregation. Corinth may have been the wickedest city in the entire empire, having tolerance for the …
The Prisoners
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloAustin Del Castillo maintains that the reason we are here is to learn our part in God's plan to reconcile the whole of mankind to Himself. We need to get to know God in order that we feel like Him, think like Him, and act like Him. Without Jesus Christ's atonement, we would be part of the walking dead. God forgives us more than …
Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus teaches us how to deal with offenses and sins against us in this parable, focusing on our attitude of forgiveness because of being forgiven ourselves.
Godly Tact and Diplomacy
Article by David F. MaasHumans are very adept at causing offense. But as Christians, we must learn the art of tact and diplomacy that works toward unity among the brethren.
The Prisoner
'Ready Answer' by Austin Del CastilloWe tend to work at cross-purposes to God, imprisoning ourselves and others in our adversarial relationships. The key to our cell is true forgiveness.
Islands and Offenses
'Ready Answer' by StaffAs much as we wish our church congregations could get along peacefully, Jesus tells us that, sadly, offenses must come (Luke 17:1). Comparing our congregations to islands, this article explains our Savior's instructions about dealing with offenses, enabling church members to feel united and secure on their "islands" amidst a …
Reacting to Criticism
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsMartin Collins, observing the plethora of negative comments, gossip, and rumor which surround God's people today, cautions them not to respond to everything people say, but instead follow Solomon's admonition of Ecclesiastes 7:20-22. Abraham Lincoln suggested that, if he responded to every negative attack, he would have no time …
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Twelve)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFocusing upon the absolute necessity for exercising forgiveness and reconciliation, John Ritenbaugh admonishes us that receiving or using spiritual gifts should never produce an inflated ego or sense of superiority. Prideful, idolatrous, self-worship reaps a crop of bitter fruit from a root of bitterness. As God has forgiven and …
Parables of the Millstone and the Lost Sheep
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThese two parables are linked because they are the answers to the disciples' question, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" Jesus' answer explains the value He places on those who follow Him.
Matthew (Part Twenty-Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJohn Ritenbaugh reiterates that Matthew 18 describes the essence of personal relationships within the church. Seven basic characteristics are emphasized, including having a childlike humble attitude, setting a proper example, exercising self-denial, individual care, using tact in correcting a person, practicing fellowship and …
The Defense Against Offense
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Bible states that offenses will come. Here are ways to handle offenses and keep minor irritations from growing into bitterness.
Go the Extra Mile
'Ready Answer' by John O. Reid (1930-2016)The Sermon on the Mount contains a explanation of what it takes to be a Christian. Matthew 5:38-42 provides the principles behind the 'above and beyond' attitude.
As Much as Depends on You
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMartin Collins, observing that despite such inane, politically correct slogans such as "unity through diversity," neither unity nor peace really exists in the world, but conflict has continued to increase. Though we are periodically confronted with conflict, we have a Christian duty to make peace through exercising …
Stand Fast in a Changing World
Sermon by Kim MyersWe have been warned to keep alert, watching for the return of our Savior, not living in careless ease. We should be sobered by the degenerating state of the world.
Judging in the Church
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHuman nature is strongly competitive and full of pride, making judgment inherently problematic. Nevertheless, God wants us to learn to judge with equity.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Ten)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn this sermon focusing on meekness and forgiveness, John Ritenbaugh indicates that when we are sinned against, our ego gets extremely strong and our emotions get muddled, making it difficult to give forgiveness. Because God is the Creator of everything, our duty to other people, whether we like it or not, constitutes a duty to …
An Acceptable Gift
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhat God is most interested in is the heart behind the offering, and what is in the heart will be seen in what we are willing to do for the sake of a brother.
How Will We See God?
Sermonette by Bill OnisickRevelation 1:6-9 assures us that every eye will see Jesus Christ when He returns, but in what light will we see Him—in earnest joy or abject fear?
Our Genetically Altered Foods (Part Three)
Commentary by John W. RitenbaughJohn Ritenbaugh, acknowledging that the world's food supply has been increasingly contaminated by genetic modification, maintains that any attempt to seek a physical solution is impossible. Consequently, no one should ever permit himself to be in the position of condescending to others who are unable to purchase safe, organic …
The Parable of the Leaven, Expanded
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBitterness divides one member of Christ's Body from another. Individuals often look for a 'doctrinal' reason to justify leaving a congregation.
The Spiritual Mark of the Beast
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAnger and hostility, driven by self-centered competitive pride constitute Satan's spiritual mark that divides nations, ethnic groups, families, and the church.
Amos (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughGentile nations without God's revelation were held accountable for basic principles of humanity. God reserves the severest penalty for Judah and Israel.
How to Conduct Ourselves as Ambassadors for Christ
Article by David F. MaasDo we have what it takes to be ambassadors of Jesus Christ? Understanding how national representatives carry out their duties helps us in our commission.
