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Forms vs. Spirituality (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the discussion of spiritual principles, it is evident that circumcision holds varied significance within biblical contexts. Frequently, the term circumcision is used collectively to represent a broad set of religious regulations and the theology constructed around them, implying a formula for salvation through adherence to these rites. However, there exists a deeper, spiritual dimension referred to as circumcision of the heart, which signifies a profound repentance and conversion. This spiritual circumcision affects the mind, character, and conduct, truly transforming the heart. In the context of early church decisions, it was determined that circumcision, as a major Old Covenant rite or as a symbol of a body of laws and associated theology, is not necessary for spiritual salvation. The council's resolution was clear in not troubling the Gentiles with these requirements, indicating that they are not absolute for acceptance before God. This decision did not abolish the laws but clarified that they are not essential prerequisites for spiritual salvation. Moreover, the burden described as a yoke, which neither the fathers nor the early followers could bear, refers not to God's law itself but to the extensive, perverted regulations and theology developed around it. This burden, compounded by human additions and misinterpretations, was deemed impossible to bear and was set aside to establish peace and facilitate teaching of God's law in its true spirit. Under the New Covenant, even a rite as significant as circumcision has no effect on spiritual holiness or one's relationship with God, because it does not enter into the heart. True conversion and spiritual transformation hinge on keeping the commandments, which penetrate the heart and core of one's being.
Circumcision Is Nothing?
Sermonette by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)While the Jerusalem Council did rule that Gentiles were not obligated to be physically circumcised, the ruling did not extend to Israelites.
The Covenant of Circumcision
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughCircumcision was the sign God gave Abraham indicating that his descendants would ascend to greatness, acquiring physical and spiritual blessings.
Why We Must Put Out Leaven
Article by Earl L. HennWhy must we put leaven out, yet we do not have to circumcise our baby boys? Is deleavening 'Old Covenant'?
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Fifteen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThings written in the Old Testament were written for us. The differences in the covenants focus on justification and access to God, not doing away with the law.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe New Covenant was designed by God to circumcise the heart, making it possible for God's laws to be written in our hearts and reflected in our behavior.
Was God's Law Nailed to the Cross?
'Ready Answer' by Earl L. HennMany use Colossians 2:14 to 'prove' God's law is done away, but is this really what Paul means? Examining the whole counsel of God reveals Paul's intent.
Elements of Judgment (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We need to learn to judge in a godly manner, putting merciful restraints on our tendency to condemn or jump to conclusions. One size does not fit all.
The Law's Purpose and Intent
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe effectiveness of a law is found in its purpose and intent rather than the letter. Love and mercy constitute the spiritual fulfillment of the Law.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Book of Hebrews is a must-read for all members of God's church who seek the key for spiritual growth through a meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughCircumcision is a token, sign, or seal that one was the heir of Abraham. No physical sign has the power to transfer righteousness to the doer.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Eight)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe yoke of bondage Paul refers to in Galatians was a combination of the code of regulations added by the Pharisees and Gnostic ritualism, not God's Law.
Colossian Law-Keeping
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughNominal Christendom cannot see God's law even though it is in plain sight. In Colossians, Paul reiterates or alludes to all but one of the Ten Commandments.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twelve)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe fault of the Old Covenant was with the hearts of the people. Christ took it upon Himself to amend the fault enabling us to keep the commandments.
Choosing the New Man (Part Two)
Article by Charles WhitakerThe spiritual new man is one who is reconciled to God and has chosen to collaborate with Him in creating a totally new mind—one just like Christ's!
God Expects a Return on His Investment (Part Five)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasThe sanctification process is slow and methodical with no dazzling pyrotechnics. Each of us are given a basic set of gifts to serve our spiritual siblings.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe New Covenant, which writes God's law onto the heart, in no way does away with any aspect of the law. Works do not justify us, they sanctify us.
Abraham (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIf we surrender to God, allowing Him to shape character in us, He will enable us to live in hope, giving us direct access to Him, giving us a more abundant life.
Hebrews (Part Ten)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughEverything about the Priesthood of Christ is superior to the Levitical system, which only served as a type of the access to God that Jesus would fulfill.