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Don't Be Indifferent (1995)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Overindulgence can distract us from our main concern of preparing for God's return. It involves indulging our appetites to an excess, not just with food, but with the whole range of desires that motivate us to seek fulfillment. This can lead us to focus in a direction away from what ought to be our primary focus. Jesus warns us not to let our hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, carousing, and the cares of this life, as these can hinder our readiness for His coming. Being alert and watchful is crucial to avoid being distracted by worldly pursuits and to maintain the right attitude toward the end times.

Life in Sodom

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The society before the Flood was characterized by overindulgence in everyday activities. People were so focused on eating, drinking, marrying, and giving in marriage that they were unaware of the impending judgment. This overindulgence in mundane and exceptional life events distracted them from spiritual awareness, leading to their spiritual ignorance and apathy. In Sodom, the people had an abundance of food, which led to overindulgence not just in food but in all pleasures. They had so much wealth that they could indulge in whatever they wanted, leading to a society filled with sinful activities and worthless pursuits. This overindulgence in material wealth and pleasures distracted them from spiritual truths and contributed to their downfall.

Intimacy with Christ (Part Three)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Overindulgence in the physical things of life, such as excessive eating or drinking, can burden a person, causing them to lose their spiritual mobility and effectiveness. This overindulgence, referred to as surfeiting, is compared to a weight that hinders a person's ability to act or react, especially in spiritual battles. The cares of this world and devotion to wealth can lead to overindulgence, which in turn weakens a person's ability to resist sin, overcome challenges, and produce spiritual fruit. This is because overindulgence consumes time and energy that should be devoted to nurturing a relationship with God.

Are You Dissipating Your Own Energy?

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

We need to be on guard against dissipating our energy, becoming over-immersed in activity and busyness to the point of losing overall effectiveness.

The World, the Church, and Laodiceanism

Booklet by John W. Ritenbaugh

Laodiceanism is the attitude that dominates the end time. It is a subtle form of worldliness that has infected the church, and Christ warns against it strongly.

What's So Bad About Babylon? (2013) (Part Three)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Babylon is a system, virtually irresistible to the carnal mind, appealing to ambition and self-centeredness. It is far greater than any church institution.

The Entertainment Craze

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Elizabeth Taylor exemplified the hedonistic, pleasure-mad lifestyle that destroyed the ancient Roman Empire.

The Chemistry of Government

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Expectation of reward, fear of disadvantage, and charisma all constitute the chemistry of government and childrearing, but require the right proportion.

Stewardship of God's Temple (Part One): Controlling Our Appetites

Sermon by David F. Maas

After God's calling, the human body becomes the temple of God's Spirit, a reality which obliges us to care for our bodies because they belong to God.

Esther (Part Four)

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Some regard approaching the Bible as literature to be demeaning, yet the literary approach can be a powerful tool to appreciating it more fully.

Knowing God: Formality and Customs (Part Two)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We must continually upgrade our decorum and formality in our approach to God. What is practiced on the outside reinforces what is on the inside.

Abstinence - Asceticism or Christian Living?

'Ready Answer' by Martin G. Collins

Some equate abstinence with religious asceticism, but abstinence is broader. Christians may need to abstain from more than just sinful actions.