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Lust of the Flesh, Lust of the Eyes, Pride of Life
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe half-time show of the recent Superbowl exemplifies the lust of the flesh and the eyes, and the pride of life. Each choice we make changes our brains.
Works of the Flesh
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFlesh in its raw state implies human nature uninfluenced by God and acting on its desires. The flesh cries out for satisfaction of its appetites, and unless something else works to resist those screams, the path of human nature is followed. In this culture temptations to gratify desires are flung constantly through media that create allurements to fornication, envy, selfish ambition, and the like. The works of the flesh are manifestations of what is believed, worshiped, and aspired to, and they telegraph those things to others. Paul uses the Greek word sarx to group all human thoughts, feelings, desires, and activities under the term flesh, most of them apart from God. Works of the flesh are the works of human nature, what is thought, said, and done naturally because of living in flesh and bones. The flesh is opposed to the Spirit once a person becomes a begotten child of God. The line between Christian works and works of the flesh is thin because tendencies back toward the flesh remain. Gratification occurs when the flesh is permitted to guide behavior rather than the Spirit. Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Crucifying the flesh with its passions and desires requires intense and agonizing effort similar to what Jesus Christ endured. Walking in the Spirit means conducting life under the influence of God's Spirit so that the lusts of the flesh are not fulfilled.
What is Your Bowl of Lentil Stew?
'Ready Answer' by StaffEach of us has the potential to do just as Esau did. What does the story of Esau selling his birthright for a bowl of lentil stew mean to us?
What Is Your Lentil Soup?
'Ready Answer' by StaffThe story of Esau and his selling his birthright for a bowl of soup is a cautionary tale for today. What we treasure will ultimately determine our destiny.
Eating: How Good It Is! (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughBy studying eating in the experiences of those in the Bible, we plumb a deep well of instruction from which we can draw vital lessons to help us through life.
Leadership and Covenants (Part Seven)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughOur sinful nature drives us to disobey God's laws, just as Adam and Eve transgressed by choosing the way of death. Such choices have made this evil world.
Fasting: Building Spiritual Muscle
Article by David F. MaasThough fasting deprives the physical body of nutrition and strength, a proper, biblical fast adds conviction and depth to the inner, spiritual man.
Brave New Dystopia
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Both Aldous Huxley and George Orwell predicted a transition from representative government into totalitarian regime, monitored by Big Brother.
Assurance (Part One): Self Examination
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSalvation is an ongoing work of God, obligating us to walk in the Spirit. If we do, we will be not captivated by the lusts of the flesh.
All in All (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The end of the sanctification process is when Christ will have defeated all enemies and put all things under His feet. Then, God the Father will be all in all.
Purpose-Driven Churches (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOutcome based religion exalts numerical growth and feeling good over the truth of God, promoting the use of modern psychology over 'divisive' biblical doctrine.
Does Doctrine Really Matter? (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe church of God is not immune to the deterioration of doctrine. Minor deviations from doctrine bring about irreparable, disastrous consequences.
God's Rest (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLust begets a guilty conscience, agitation, anxiety, depression, grief, torment. Wrong desire leads to lying, adultery, and murder—eventually leading to death.
All in All
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe 'all in all' process has already begun. Our obligation and responsibility is to obey and yield to Christ and God the Father, conforming to their image.
Submitting (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSeeking our will at the expense of the group makes conflict inevitable. Society work only when everyone submits to one another in the fear of Christ.
John (Part Twelve)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWhat we believe automatically determines what we do; it is impossible to separate faith and works. If Jesus is not our source of belief, our works will suffer.
Parables of Luke 15 (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe three illustrations in Luke 15 justify Christ's conduct in receiving sinners, and show that to rejoice over their return is good and proper.