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The Priesthood of God (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The priestly garments represent the holy character of God. Clothing is used as a badge of one's office and symbolizes what our character is like inwardly.
Jabez: 'That I May Not Cause Pain'
Sermon by Mark SchindlerWhen we contrast the ever-present chaos and confusion of the world with the serene, quiet clarity of God's still small voice, we remember that even God's faithful servants like Elijah, Peter, David, and Hezekiah had become upended, distracted, and drifted away from God's divine purpose for them. Thankfully, in each instance, God gently called them back with a question at a moment of fleeting spiritual clarity. As we consider national observances such as Pentecost or Flag Day, we must highlight the difference between worldly symbols of pride and power versus the preferred heavenly calling, living under God's banner rather than man's banner. Jabez's brief but powerful prayer in I Chronicles 4:9-10 identifies him as a spiritual beacon, a man born in pain who seeks blessing and alignment with God's will. As the Bible compares Lamech's violence, Nimrod's empire building, Hezekiah's self-focused prayer and David's humble repentance, we discover two distinct approaches: one of self-glory and temporary gain contrasted with God-centered purpose and eternal transformation. We must tune out the cacophony and noise of the world, listening for the quiet guidance from God's Holy Spirit. True, effective prayer, like that of Jabez's, seeks not material gain, but spiritual expansion, enabling us to live like Christ, reflecting His glory in a broken world. We, as metaphorical branches, must remain connected to the vine, regarding Christ as our standard, our banner-the flag of our Father in heaven, maintaining a perpetual above-the-sun perspective.
Life in the Church
Sermon by David C. GrabbeOutwardly, many members in Sardis bore Christ's name, but like the apparently religious Pharisees, they were in reality hypocrites, full of dead men's bones.
Beware the Second Flood (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeOur minds adapt to what we focus on. We can damage or even destroy faith through abuse or neglect. Without being refreshed in what He says, faith weakens.
Destroying America From Within (Part One)
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God confused the languages at the tower of Babel, causing confusion similar to the discord in the West. Without communication, productivity grinds to a halt.