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The Prophet
'Prophecy Watch' by StaffThe concept of a Prophet appointed by God, as referenced in Deuteronomy 18:15-22, holds significant importance for God's people. Moses declares that the Lord will raise up a Prophet like himself from among the brethren, whom the people must hear and obey, as God Himself speaks through this Prophet. God warns that anyone who refuses to listen to His words through this Prophet will be held accountable by Him. This admonition urges God's people to be vigilant in heeding the words of Jesus Christ and to be prepared to recognize any potential end-time fulfillment of this Prophet, should He appear. God acknowledges the challenge of identifying true prophets by leaving the specific identity unnamed, encouraging His people to discern using His criteria. He states that a prophet who speaks words not commanded by Him or in the name of other gods faces the death penalty. To aid in discernment, God provides a clear test: if a prophet's predictions do not come to pass, they are not from Him, and His people should neither fear nor obey such a false prophet. Even if predictions are fulfilled, God's people must remain cautious and test the spirits to ensure the prophet bears the fruits of God's Spirit. In a scenario where a minister claims to be this Prophet, asserting authority to lead God's people to a Place of Safety, his credibility hinges on the fulfillment of his prophecies as per God's standards. If his predictions fail, he reveals himself as a fraud, subject to severe consequences. God communicates directly with His true prophets through face-to-face encounters, dreams, or visions, and any modern claimant must be scrutinized for such divine interaction. God's promise remains steadfast: He will not act significantly concerning His people without first revealing His plans through His servants, ensuring clarity and understanding. If He sends an end-time leader, whether a prophet, apostle, or one of the two witnesses, He will enable His people to recognize this true servant.
Prophets and Prophecy (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAlthough by no means a wild man, John the Baptist experienced alienation from people, especially the entrenched religious and political leaders.
Prophets and Prophecy (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA prophet is one who speaks for God, expressing His will in words and sometimes signs. Standing outside the system, he proclaims God's purpose, including repentance.
Unity (Part 2): God's Pattern of Leadership
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod is not the author of confusion, but throughout the scriptures has used a consistent pattern of appointing leaders over His called-out ones.
Unity (Part 4): The Voice of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe voice of God, whether expressed through thunder, events of His providence, handiwork of creation, or the preaching of His truth, is recognizable to His flock.
Why Study Prophecy?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe study prophecy to know the general outline of future events, be prepared for the next significant event, and understand God's will and His character.
Sovereignty, Election, and Grace (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe term 'grace' describes a generous, thoughtful action of God, accompanied by love, which accomplishes His will, equipping us with everything we need.
Amos (Part Thirteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe people to whom Amos writes have the mistaken assumption that because they have made the covenant with God, they can bask in a kind of divine favoritism.
Think Soberly (Part Two)
Sermon by Mark SchindlerNo one has ever appointed themselves into a position in God's family. God's appointment is a prerogative reserved by Him alone.
Think Soberly (Part One)
Sermon by Mark SchindlerAs we examine our spiritual gifts, we must avoid any presumption that we alone carry exclusive knowledge that other church groups are too blind to see.