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Dominion and Leaven (Part One)
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeDominion theology holds that the church's responsibility is to spread God's Kingdom around the world, but it misunderstands the Parable of Leaven.
Dominion and Glory and a Kingdom
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeDuring His trial, Jesus declared to the Jewish leadership that, from now on, they would comprehend the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power and coming on the clouds of heaven. This statement, drawn from Daniel 7, reveals that Jesus was not speaking of His return to earth but of His arrival before the Ancient of Days to receive dominion, glory, and a Kingdom. At His ascension, the clouds of heaven brought the Son of Man to the Father, where He was invested with this authority. The prophecies in Daniel describe a flashback to this event, showing the origin of the divine Kingdom that will ultimately replace all other governments. Peter and John, in their writings, affirm that to Christ belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. The Jewish leaders, though unable to see these heavenly events with their eyes, began to comprehend the reality through the overwhelming evidence following Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, and the powerful events of Pentecost. Despite their resistance, the effects of divine power were undeniable as they witnessed miracles and the growth of a movement fueled by the exalted Son of Man. Stephen's testimony before the council, declaring his vision of the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God, further confirmed this spiritual reality, sealing his fate as it had Christ's. Though mere men could persecute and silence messengers, they could not stop the message, for all dominion and authority belong to Christ. Paul later reveals that the church, as Christ's Body, is considered by God to be sitting at His right hand, part of the same heavenly vision of glory and dominion that the Jewish leaders could not accept. To Him be the glory and dominion, forever and ever.
The Model Prayer (Part Four): Your Kingdom Come
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughGod's sovereignty is a central theme in the concept of His Kingdom, reflecting His ultimate authority and right to govern. The term "Kingdom of God" encompasses not only a geographical domain but also His dominion and royal power, wherever and whenever it is in effect. His rule is a present reality for those called into it, as well as a future promise of the Kingdom that Jesus Christ will establish at His return. There is no limit to God's dominion, as He possesses all authority and power in the universe, standing above all kings and leaders who hold their positions only by His permission. Despite the apparent chaos and control of evil in the world, the great Sovereign maintains His dominion over all things, bringing His plan to fruition. When praying for His Kingdom to come, a person confesses hope and desire for God's direct rule, aligning with His purpose and trusting in His faithfulness to accomplish His grand purposes and provide for individual needs.
The Bible and the Environment
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughGod grants mankind dominion over all other life on earth, as seen in Genesis 1:26, 28, with the implicit responsibility to tend and keep what was given to Adam. In the post-Flood world, He provides a second chance to use and preserve the abundant resources He has provided. However, human nature often fails to uphold this stewardship, leading to neglect of this divine mandate. As Creator and Sustainer of the universe, He knows best how all parts of His creation work together, and His laws reflect a balance between man and nature, often favoring the environment. His Word includes provisions to care for the land, plants, and animals, expanding the principle of tending and keeping. Despite this, human sin has led to the bondage of corruption, subjecting creation to decay and devastation, as mankind's disregard for His creation reaches its peak before Christ's return. According to Revelation 11:17-18, part of the reason for Christ's return is to judge those who have polluted and defiled God's creation, striking with vengeance against such blatant disregard for the work of His hands. Individually, we are called to appraise our lives concerning the tend and keep principle, evaluating how well we care for the domain God has provided, as faithful stewardship in small matters may lead to great reward in His Kingdom.
Why Are You Here?
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God, following a pattern, routinely calls the lowly and weak to guard against pride. God will transform the weak of this world through His Holy Spirit.
Self-Government (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)If we govern ourselves, God will take care of us. Government of any kind will not work unless people govern their own nature. Self-control enables us to show love.
The Ship Is Yours
Sermon by Mark SchindlerJust as the captain of a ship wants decision-makers, not just order takers, God expects us to make decisions in accordance with His will.
The Global Environmental Ethic (Part Three)
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsThe UN Environmental Project espouses an environmental ethic, an eco-spirituality designed to enforce a global reference for earth and an international earth sabbath.
The Kingdom of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Kingdom of God includes a King, territory, citizenry, and laws. The term kingdom (Greek basileia), has a past, present and future application.
Genesis 3:16: Consequences for Eve
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSpiritually, male and female have equal potential. Rights and legalities are far less important than spiritual development, subject to God-ordained gender roles.
Marriage—A God-Plane Relationship (Part Four)
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen the fear of the Lord forms the basis for a marriage, the couple is starting out their marriage properly, and they can expect good results in time.
The Right Use of Power
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWith dominion comes responsibility to maintain. The sad history of mankind shows that he has mismanaged his power, bringing about disease, war, and famine.
Government (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod intended government to be a positive force of bringing order out of chaos, keeping on a straight course, educating, and edifying with necessary laws.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod not only upholds, but also guides and propels His creation, periodically overruling man's mismanagement with floods, fires, winds, and earthquakes.
God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part One): Sower and Seed
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeThe 'kingdom of heaven' is commonly interpreted to describe the church, but in the first four parables of Matthew 13, it has a clearer application: Israel.
Self-Government (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Regardless of whether one submits to God, government, or community, self-government is the best means to having a safe, smooth course toward an objective.
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?
His Own Vine and Fig Tree
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughProperty rights will be held sacrosanct during the Millennium. God brings His people back to their own land, and to restore it to be like the Garden of Eden.
The Sovereignty of God: Part Four
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod not only rules in heaven, but He is also sovereign on earth! He is not an absentee landlord, but One who is actively involved in administering His creation.
The Greatness of God's Power
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPaul emphasized the power of God living in us through the Holy Spirit to enable us to develop into His family. Through God's power, we will triumph over death.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe doctrinal changes made by the Worldwide Church of God have devastating ramifications. Predictably, when the vision was changed, God's law was cast aside.