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Sin (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the exploration of sin's origin and influence, a critical concept emerges in Romans 7, where Paul describes an internal struggle even after conversion. He reveals that sin, portrayed as a living entity, continues to dwell within, exerting a powerful force. In Romans 7:13-15, Paul states that sin, through the commandment, becomes exceedingly sinful, producing death in him despite the law being spiritual, while he remains carnal, sold under sin. He expresses confusion and frustration, doing what he hates instead of what he wills to do. Further, in Romans 7:16-17, Paul acknowledges agreement with the law's goodness, yet recognizes that it is sin dwelling in him that drives his actions against his will. In Romans 7:18-25, he laments that nothing good dwells in his flesh, finding a law of evil present within him, warring against the law of his mind and bringing him into captivity to the law of sin in his members. He cries out in despair, seeking deliverance from this body of death, and thanks God through Jesus Christ for the hope of rescue. Paul serves the law of God with his mind, but with his flesh, he serves the law of sin. This law of sin is not merely a lingering habit but a deep-seated inclination rooted in human nature, intensified by awareness after conversion. Paul notes that before God's revelation, his understanding of sin was shallow, but post-conversion, sin's reality became a daily battle, often lost due to habitual thoughts and reactions developed since birth. This law of sin and death contrasts with the law of his converted mind, influenced by the divine nature, highlighting the ongoing struggle to overcome the pervasive power of sin within.
What Do You Mean . . . the Unpardonable Sin?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletCan a Christian commit a sin, and still be a Christian? Or would this be 'the unpardonable sin'? Or would it prove he never was a Christian?
Sin And Overcoming (Part 1): If Anyone Sins!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe are obligated to uphold a higher standard of morality, responsible for the letter and spirit of the law, as well as the prompts of our consciences.
Communication and Leaving Babylon (Part Three)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughChristians must continue to fight against self-centered and deception long after their calling to deepen and strengthen their relationships with God.
Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Ten): Cultivating the Fruit of Self Control
Sermon by David F. MaasIt is impossible to cultivate self-control unless one uses God's Spirit to reprogram the desires of the heart from self-centeredness to submission to God.
The Christian Paradox (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe have two conflicting natures: a downward-pulling carnal nature versus a divine nature imparted by God's Holy Spirit, continually at odds, seen in Romans 7.
The Faithfulness of God (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God is absolutely faithful to His promises. We attain salvation is entirely by grace; God owes us absolutely nothing.
Re-education (Part 1)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod mandates that we unlearn carnal processes (purging the leaven) and totally adopt new spiritual processes- eating unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
Liberty vs. Independence
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe have been liberated from the degeneration of sin, the fear of death, corruption, and the elements of this world. If we live righteously, we remain free.
Checklist for Overcoming
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRomans 12-16 provide a checklist for overcoming and promoting positive relationships, developing tender affection. We are mutually dependent upon one another.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Twenty-Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Psalm 73 describes someone seeing the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer, but it is not true that people in the world are leading superior lives.
Liberty Through Self-Control
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughOnly by using God's Spirit can we gain the self-discipline, self-mastery, and self-control to put to death the carnal pulls, giving us freedom from sin.
The Most Dangerous Battlefront
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasThe most dangerous battle at hand is against our own flesh, where we least expect treachery and where we have become the most complacent.