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How to Be a Bad Disciple
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughLooking at discipleship from a negative perspective can help reveal errors in ourselves. Jesus shows four main attitudes that make for bad discipleship in Luke 9.
The Identifying Sign of a True Disciple of Jesus
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaThis message, acquiring inspiration from Lone Survivor, the story of Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell and his fallen teammates, explores how extreme training forged an unbreakable brotherhood, characterized by love, sacrifice, and a commitment to never let another down. The Navy Seals fear is not of death, but of failing their team—drawing a powerful parallel to the bond Christ desires among His disciples. Just as the way SEAL's are identified by their love for each other, Jesus commands His disciples, then and now, to be recognized by their love—not just any love, but by the self-sacrificing, enduring love He demonstrated (John 13:34- 35). This kind of love is characterized as longsuffering (patient endurance through mistreatment) and kindness (active goodness, even toward enemies). These principles are not optional but are commands. As Jesus publicly identifies Himself with physical Israel and the Israel of God, He identifies with us when we follow His command to love one another. Only when we practice this radical Christ-like love (patient, kind, forgiving) is how the world will know we truly belong to Him.
Parables of Counting the Cost
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn Luke 14:25-33, two parables and an exhortation urge us to forsake all that we have as a mandatory condition for becoming Christ's true disciples.
Revelation 2-3 and Works
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe letters in Revelation 2 and 3 are for the end times, shortly before Christ's return. Each emphasizes repentance, overcoming, and judgment according to works.