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Parables of Matthew 13 (Part 3): Hidden Treasure
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSpecial treasure refers to those whom God selects as His own. In the beginning this special treasure was Israel with whom God made a covenant. Later it became those who fear His name and speak to one another about Him. Ultimately the special treasure consists of the elect who form a chosen generation a royal priesthood and a holy nation. The church is spiritual Israel the Israel of God and the only group that truly fears God in a godly way. The members of the church were once not a people but are now the people of God bound together as His special treasure. Christ finds this treasure hidden in the world where the members were dead in trespasses and sins and conducted themselves according to the prince of the power of the air. After finding them He hides them again by sending them back into the world though they are no longer of the world. They are set apart by His truth yet appear as average people unless a matter of truth separates them from others. Their lives are hidden with Christ in God as in a vault for safe keeping provided they seek those things which are above. Christ joyfully gave His all to redeem this special treasure and protects it even though it remains in the world.
The Faithfulness of God (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God has a very real concern for us, promising to never leave us. We have to strongly believe in His faithfulness to build a relationship with Him.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)A Christian worldview includes the importance of our calling and the reality of God and His laws. Our worldview determines how we spend our time.
Our Uniqueness and Time
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughOur special position before God gives us an equally unique opportunity that we do not want to squander.
A Priceless Gift
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod's children look no different on the outside, but God has given them something inside, something spiritual, that makes them special to Him.
Chosen Instruments of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Ted E. BowlingPaul was chosen, but Ananias was also chosen. Ananias's role was like a Jew living in Nazi Germany, ordered by God to minister to a repentant SS officer.
God's Pearls
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Ted E. BowlingOur spiritual development is like the creation of a pearl. Just as the oyster coats an irritant with a mother of pearl, we begin as an irritant in God's creation.
Why Israel? (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughIsrael plays a prominent part in Scripture. Here is God's stated purposes for choosing and using the children of Israel throughout His Word—and beyond.
Uniqueness and Time
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur unique calling makes us a special possession of God. Sealed with a downpayment of God's Spirit, we have the obligation to glorify God by obedience.
Why Is God Doing This, This Way?
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must learn to see ourselves and our function as God sees us—as a distinct, unique entity, a holy people, a special treasure.
A Priceless Gift
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod's people are the precious jewels (or the private, personal possessions) of God, obligated to conform exclusively to His will and purpose.
The Doctrine of Israel (Part One): Origins
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause Abraham trusted God, his descendants have received unprecedented blessings. If the Israelites would have kept God's law, they would have served as a model.
Eternal Servant Leadership
Sermon by Mark SchindlerOur responsibility should be to learn to serve rather than to emulate the pompous gentile leaders who love to domineer over their subjects.
Wilderness Wanderings (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe spiritual journey of God's people is more difficult than the physical one of the ancient Israelites, requiring as it does more resources to navigate.
The Purpose of Israel
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod chose ancient Israel 1) to be separate, 2) to demonstrate His love to them, 3) to keep His promises to Abraham, and 4) to make a covenant with them.
The Doctrine of Israel (Part Two): The Old Covenant
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod made the New Covenant because Jacob's offspring did not have what it took to fulfill the terms of the Old Covenant. The carnal mind is hostile to God's law.