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Are We Really Committed?
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerBrethren, the lack of commitment to God manifests in various attitudes that can hinder our spiritual journey. Some compromise with the world to maintain peace, prioritizing social ties over divine obedience. Others run perilously close to the edge, testing boundaries without fully crossing over, believing they can avoid consequences. There are those who focus on the faults of others within the church rather than on the Almighty God, comparing themselves among themselves instead of seeking His will. Worst of all, some believe they can shirk their responsibilities before God and still receive His blessings without full obedience. Any of these attitudes can prevent total commitment to God, leaving us spiritually dead and separated from the Body of Christ. Yet, there is hope as we gather at the Feast of Tabernacles. This is a time for examination, to meticulously inventory our lives and assess our dedication. We must ask ourselves: Are we holding back from a total 100% commitment? Have we compromised with the world? Are we running too close to the edge? Are we focusing on others instead of God? Do we expect blessings without full commitment? God separates us from the world during this Feast to recount His commitment to us and to renew our own. We are called to share our blessings and struggles, bolstering each other's faith, and to tremble at His Word, ensuring our hearts are fully given to Him. This Feast is our opportunity to initiate or renew a complete dedication to God's purpose, recognizing that only through such commitment can we truly receive His promised blessings.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 13)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA major reason people fail to maintain a weight loss or exercise program is a lack of commitment. They do not stick to the program long enough for it to work effectively, allowing other interests to distract them from their goals. This results in inconsistent efforts, with frequent starting and stopping rather than steady adherence to the program.
Burn the Ships
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingSome individuals today exhibit a lack of commitment, influenced by societal attitudes that encourage seeking personal fulfillment and happiness at the expense of dedication to others. This lack of commitment is evident in various aspects of life, including marriages and careers, where it leads to higher rates of divorce and reduced performance in workplaces. The absence of commitment not only affects personal relationships and professional environments but also reflects poorly on one's character, indicating a lack of self-discipline, resilience, and persistence.
Looking Forward
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe man's excuse in Luke 9:61-62 indicates a habitual attitude of using family as a reason for not being fully committed to discipleship. Jesus recognized that this man would repeatedly use such excuses, showing a lack of commitment. Christ's response emphasizes that once a commitment is made, one must not look back or be distracted, as this leads to veering off the path and failing to complete the task set by God. He states that anyone who looks back after putting their hand to the plow is not fit for the Kingdom of God, highlighting the importance of unwavering commitment.
Growing Into Liberty
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur emancipation from sin does not automatically remove our acquired spiritual shackles. We must grow out of the slave mentality into liberty and freedom.
What Is the Work?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe work of God does not always stay the same, continually shifting media, techniques, and approaches, similar to the Israelites following the Cloud.
Wilderness Wanderings (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe spiritual journey of God's people is more difficult than the physical one of the ancient Israelites, requiring as it does more resources to navigate.
Don't Be a Prudent Agnostic
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSome of us, facing the stress of the times, may simply be going through the motions but losing every vestige of faith. We must strengthen our convictions.
The Eyes of the Blind Shall Be Opened
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe parable of the blind man parallels our post-conversion process throughout many parts of our life. We are given hope and a way of overcoming our lack of clarity.