Filter by Categories
The Ten Commandments
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsA statute designates a law that is engraved, meaning a lawgiver establishes it unchangeably unless He alone changes it. A religious statute sets rules for worship, while secular statutes carry the force of a royal decree. Formulated as a law, a statute commands, "You shall (not) do so-and-so," as seen in various scriptural references. A synonym for statute is oracle, distinguishing it from commandments, which are specific, eternal instructions from God, and judgments, which are decisions based on established laws. Statutes, as part of God's spiritual law, reflect His inexorable and eternal code of conduct, which has been in effect since creation and remains binding. Obedience to these statutes, alongside commandments, is integral to the righteous character that pleases God and is a standard that will endure for all eternity.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Fourteen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe law of God remains a vital component of the New Covenant, designed not merely to save but to prepare individuals to live and function in God's Kingdom. Statutes, as part of God's law, are mandates and rules given by divine authority to guide conduct. These statutes, described as engraved or permanent, are not arbitrary but are equal, just, and proper, producing rejoicing in those who obey them. Unlike human laws that may favor special interests or cause hardship, God's statutes are always fair, saturated with love, and free from any corrupt tendency. They enlighten the eyes, providing clear guidance on how to walk life's path without stumbling over obstacles or straying from the way. Furthermore, these statutes contribute to cleansing and purifying the heart, making one acceptable in God's presence by fostering holiness and proper respect for Him. Their enduring nature ensures that what they teach remains relevant forever, reflecting God's unchanging judgment of what is right and best for humanity.
Building on Christ's Foundation
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsGod instructed Solomon that a major requirement for him and the children of Israel, in building and maintaining the Temple, was to walk in righteousness and obey His commandments, keeping His statutes. This condition of obedience was essential for the Temple to endure, emphasizing that their spiritual lives must align with His laws. Without righteousness, even the greatest material efforts and wealth invested in the Temple would not please God and would ultimately fail to last.
God's Law Is Eternal
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMany say that God's laws have been abolished, even though Jesus taught that until heaven and earth pass away, not one jot or tittle of the Law will disappear.
Psalms: Book Five (Part Six): Psalm 119 (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe keeping of the law is a practical response to God, providing us with principles for our lives, establishing our character and implanting God's values.
Psalms: Book Five (Part Five): Psalm 119 (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughEven though keeping the law does not justify us, it does point out to us what sin is. The law is a guide keeping us within moral and ethical boundaries.
Prove Yourself A Man!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMasculine leadership is demonstrated by men who embrace God's commandments, love and protect their wives, and instill a love of God's truth in their children.
Secret Faults and Presumptuous Thoughts
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPeople can mentally 'legalize their iniquities,' in doing so attempting to make God the accomplice of their sins. But He will not overlook blatant faults.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Seventeen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Law (including the judgments, ordinances, and statutes), far from being done away, shows us our faults and outlines the way of mercy and love—how to live.
Judging
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughLike Solomon, we should be asking God for a discerning and understanding heart, capable of judging righteously, which requires knowing God's standards.
Deuteronomy (Part 2) (1994)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughDeuteronomy, which is to be reviewed every seven years, provides us with vision and instruction for living in our spiritual Promised Land.
God's Rest (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe two principal robbers of peace are pride and the drive to have complete control of our lives. Discontent and imagined victimization led Adam and Eve into sin.
Themes of Ruth (Part Three): Redemption
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus redeemed us with His shed blood from the penalty of our sins, but He also works as our High Priest, continually redeeming us until we are resurrected.
Psalms: Book Three (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIf we would keep God's Feasts properly, we would be in sync with God's noble purpose for us, defending us from falling into apostasy and idolatry.
Can You Mix Wool and Linen?
Sermonette by Mike FordThe context of the prohibition against mixing wool and linen teaches that God wants us to remain separate from the world, not being unequally yoked with any part.
Deception, Idolatry, and the Feast of Tabernacles
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJeroboam, pragmatic and fearful, established a more convenient idolatrous festival to prevent his people from keeping the real Feast of Tabernacles in Judah.
Passover (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe proponents of a 15th Passover discount clear scriptural details and instead speculate. One cannot build doctrines on implication, distortion, and traditions.