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The Last Words of Jesus Christ
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's positional authority is evident in His unique relationship with God the Father and His role in the divine order. He always referred to Himself as One sent by the Father, establishing without doubt who held the greater authority. He declared that the words He spoke were not His own but came from the Father who sent Him, giving Him a commandment regarding what He should say and speak. The One who gives the orders and sends another is in a superior position to the One who is sent and obeys those orders. Thus, the line of authority was clear: God the Father held the superior position, followed by Jesus Christ in the chain of command. His authority was also recognized by the people, who were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, unlike the scribes. Even the educated elite were shocked at His depth of learning and wisdom, despite Him not being perceived as an intellectual, influential political leader, or established religious scholar. He seemed to come out of nowhere, yet His knowledge and philosophy impressed many, though they were not willing to change themselves. Furthermore, Jesus demonstrated His authority over natural elements, as seen when He commanded the raging sea to be still, exercising a power similar to that displayed in the original taming of the waters. His disciples marveled, asking, "Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!" This act underscored His extraordinary authority, setting Him apart from ordinary men.
Hebrews (Part Three): Who Was Jesus? (cont.)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)John identifies Christ as co-eternal with the Father, equal in character, but subordinate in authority. Christ's sonship was unique; He was the 'only Begotten Son.'
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJesus referred to His Father as 'My God,' indicating that They do not share equality, preeminence, or superiority. They are equal in kind, but one is subordinate.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Father is the source of everything and the Son is the channel through which He carries out His purpose. Jesus declared that the Father is superior to Him.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughChrist Himself asserted the superiority of the Father. Jesus serves as the revelator of the great God, providing the only means of access to Him.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ and God the Father are one in spirit and purpose, purposing to draw us toward that same kind of unity that currently exists between them.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAlthough Christ is not the Absolute Deity, He is nevertheless the complement of the Father. He had a pre-existence as the God of the Old Testament.
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.
Of Freedom and Independence
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloIdeas of independence apart from God emanate from carnal human nature which is aligned to the rebellious mind of Satan.
Power Belongs to God (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughHuman beings, even those who have been called, have an innate fear that God will not always provide. This fear originates in doubt about God's power.
Principles of Church Leadership
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughA major responsibility for the fracturing of the WCG rested with the leadership, based on a philosophy of authoritarianism Christ warned against.
Hebrews (Part Ten): Chapters 1 and 2
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God created angels as ministering spirits to take care of the heirs of salvation. The Bible is filled with examples of angels rescuing God's people from harm.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe book of Hebrews' audience consisted of converts from Judaism, suffering estrangement from family and community, excommunicated from the temple.
Power Belongs to God (Part 2)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe may be going through a period of hopelessness, but must believe that all things work together for those who believe and are called for His purpose.