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No Private Interpretation
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe apostle Peter, in his second epistle, issues a grave warning about the misinterpretation of prophecy. He assures us that biblical prophecy is more certain than even eyewitness testimony, for when God speaks, whatever He foretells will come to pass. God's Word will not return to Him empty; it will accomplish what He sends it to do. Peter urges us to heed prophecy, as it is vital to our growth, strengthening our faith in God, teaching us how He works, and guiding us to His purpose for humanity. Until Christ returns, we must study prophecies to understand where we are and what God is doing. Yet, Peter warns against presuming that our personal understanding of prophecy is the correct one. This is the first rule of studying prophecy; we must arm ourselves with humility, recognizing that our interpretation is likely wrong. God's thoughts are far higher than ours, and though we grow in forming His mind in us, we still have a long way to go. We see now dimly, as in a mirror, knowing only in part, for the full understanding awaits the resurrection. Peter's rule emphasizes that prophecy is not a matter of personal opinion but of God-inspired fact. We must accept and believe it, without bending it to our own will or ends. Any speculation on prophecy must be rooted deeply in Scripture, allowing the Bible to interpret itself through context and companion verses. Speculation must not contradict clearer, more reliable scriptures, and above all, it must be done in humility, acknowledging when we are wrong. Such speculation should aim only to glorify God and learn His mind, never for our own glory. Ultimately, when a prophecy comes to pass, God receives all the glory, not us. Studying prophecy with the right attitude increases our faith in Him, helps us grow in the hope of His Kingdom, and drives us to strive more diligently to be worthy of it.
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.
The Teaching of Jesus and Prophecy
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe teaching of Jesus is the key to Revelation. The Olivet Prophecy (the testimony of Jesus) in Matthew 24 unlocks the meaning of the seals in Revelation.
The Necessity of Biblical Infallibility
CGG WeeklyBiblical infallibility is a prerequisite to a relationship with God. Yet today it is taught that the Bible should be read metaphorically, not literally.
The Two Witnesses (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod wants us to recognize prophecies as they occur or shortly afterward. To cling to an interpretation before the events happen leads to missing vital details.
The Three Angels
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe tend to organize things in groups of three, such as the proclamation of the three angels in Revelation 14:6-13. Angelos could refer to a human messenger.
Jesus in the Feasts (Part One): Unleavened Bread
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughEven though the prophetic significance of the Holy Days outlines the the plan of God, the work of Jesus Christ in each event is even more significant.
The Curse
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamMalachi 4:4-6 warns of a a coming Elijah and of a curse if the hearts of the children are not turned back to the fathers and vice versa. Are we seeing this?
The End Is Not Yet
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod's people do a disservice to the cause of truth when they allow the media-hype to trigger a false hope about Jesus Christ's return being imminent.
Focus
Sermon by John O. ReidThough Christ has warned us to be aware of the times, we need to be more alert to how we are living. End-time events should lead us to repentance.
Liberty or Independence?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe approach of 'I want it my way' begins with license but then leads to chaos, and eventually the loss of liberty.
We are Called to Liberty
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAs we are liberated from the bondage of sin, we are now free because we are slaves of righteousness, ironically the only true and lasting liberty.
Looking Forward (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhich button would someone have to push for you to leave the truth of God? The doctrines of grace and liberty have been perverted into tolerance of sin.
Facing Times of Stress: Lack of Clarity
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMany people called by God realize the world is wrong, but also cannot see the way of God clearly, having an inability of seeing or comprehending the truth.
Forging the Canon
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughNeither the original apostolic church nor the Roman Catholic Church authorized scripture, but accepted only what was already canonized. Here is how it happened.
Bible Difficulties by Design
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe God-designed difficulties in the Bible are there to stimulate our minds, causing us to think deeply and meditate on the facts, inspiring us to seek God.