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Basic Doctrines: Faith Toward God
Bible Study by StaffFaith toward God is a fundamental doctrine that Christians must not only grasp at conversion but also build upon toward spiritual maturity. Many profess faith in God yet do not truly know Him, as their worship is vain and based on human doctrines rather than divine truth. True faith begins when God initiates a calling, for man cannot find Him on their own. This faith comes by hearing the Word of God through a preacher sent by Him, and it must be verified by searching the Scriptures to ensure the message aligns with truth. Expressing faith toward God requires obedience and keeping His law, as without these, faith is dead and worthless. Examples of this living faith are seen in those who believed God's words through true ministers, obeyed His doctrines, and walked in the footsteps of the apostles and Jesus Christ, receiving the earnest of His Spirit through baptism. However, initial faith is not enough; it must grow from a tender trust into a full-blown conviction, an absolute trust that submits to Him without wavering. God admonishes us to recall our calling and early trials, reminding us that He fulfills His promises, and we must not draw back but live by faith. Mature faith, as exemplified by the faithful in Hebrews 11, is unwavering and endures even when everything is at stake. This living faith, which does not fear those who can destroy the body but reveres Him who can destroy both body and soul, is what He seeks in His elect for salvation. The righteous shall live by this faith and inherit the Kingdom of God.
Faith and the Christian Fight (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEverything that we go through has been engineered by God. We are His workmanship, created for good works, a response to the faith He has given us.
Wandering the Wilderness in Faith
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughLike the Israelites, Christians must live by faith as we follow Christ through a spiritual wilderness. Faith is the vital component carries us through.
What Kind of Faith is Required for Salvation?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletMillions who say they believe in Jesus Christ have no salvation at all because they trust in the wrong kind of faith. Saving faith is largely misunderstood.
The Sovereignty of God: Part Seven
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughOne aspect of sovereignty that causes some confusion is predestination. God's sovereignty does not remove a person's free moral agency — we must still choose.
The Sovereignty of God: Part Six
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe overriding issue of life is to whom we will give ourselves in obedience. Will it be ourselves, society, business, Satan or God?
The Christian Fight (Part Four)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWhile we must express some of our own faith as we come to salvation, most of saving faith is a gift of God. Abel and Enoch illustrate the pattern of faith.
Facing Times of Stress: Controlled by Doubts
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe dare not equate can-do enthusiasm with genuine faith, as Peter did as he attempted to walk on water. Human faith or zeal is not godly, saving faith.
Who Was Herbert W. Armstrong?
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHerbert Armstrong, while not infallible or sinless, nevertheless served as the custodian of the truths of God, occupying the role of God's messenger.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Sixteen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRighteousness consists of applying the Law's letter and/or intent. Sin constitutes a failure of living up to the standards of what God defines as right.
Are You Sure You Believe in God? (Part Three)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsReal saving faith is a gift from God, but we are obligated to walk by this faith, developing incremental levels of faith through obedience.