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The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Six): The Sin Offering
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughSin is an undeniable reality that affects every stratum of society, as God addresses all sins not committed willfully or rebelliously. The sin and trespass offerings, unlike the sweet-savor offerings, are not a sweet savor to God, for He takes no satisfaction in sin, which is described as abominable, remarkably hateful, and evil. Yet, His mercy allows forgiveness through the sacrifice of Christ, which these offerings represent, covering the indebtedness of sin with the payment of a life in blood, as the wages of sin is death. In the ritual of the sin offering, the offerer symbolically transfers sin to the animal by laying hands on its head, portraying the sinner. The animal's death signifies the penalty paid, reflecting Christ's vicarious death, where our sins are transferred to Him, atoning for and redeeming us. This redemption requires perfection, as the animal must be without blemish to symbolize Christ's sinlessness, ensuring no spiritual imperfection disqualifies the sacrifice. Christ's sacrifice, though not a sweet savor during His judgment, satisfied justice as He became sin for us, bearing our sins and being cast out of God's presence. Through this, God legally meets the requirement of His law that sin be expiated by death, freeing us from the death penalty as we are judged in Him. The value of this sacrifice is immeasurable, as no animal could pay for a man's sins; God offered the life of the Creator, a payment sufficient for all mankind's sins for all time. The sacrificial laws, while unable to make one perfect, serve as a shadow of the greater reality in Christ, teaching the profound cost of redemption. Preaching the gospel includes informing mankind of their separation from God due to sin and their need for reconciliation through Christ's payment, urging them to recognize sin and seek forgiveness. This access to God, made possible by Christ's blood, grants fellowship, peace, and spiritual strength, a gift of immense value provided through His enduring sacrifice outside the camp.
Have Mercy
Sermonette by Hunter D. SwansonWhen we become fixated on past resentment, we will never find opportunities to display mercy, enabling a repentant brother to move forward.
How Jesus Reacts to Sin
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe episode of the women caught in adultery offers a stark contrast between the scribes and Pharisees and Jesus Christ in terms of their reactions to sin.
The Fruit of Justification
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe subject of justification confuses a great many people. In fact, much of nominal Christianity, even theologians, do not understand the Bible's teaching on it.
Basic Doctrines: Salvation
Bible Study by Earl L. HennAre you saved already or are you being saved? What is salvation anyway? What part do we play? Here is a study of God's Word on salvation.
Jesus in the Feasts (Part Four): Atonement
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIsaiah 53 and passages from the New Testament substantiate Christ's dual role in shedding His blood and bearing away sins, thereby reconciling humanity to God.
Our Apostasy
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles WhitakerThe subtle and deceptive apostasy upon the church became so pervasive that God couldn't find anyone to serve as an intercessor.
What Do You Mean . . . Salvation?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletNot one in a hundred knows what salvation is—how to get it or when you will receive it. Don't be too sure you do! Here is the truth, made plain.
Is the Love of Many Growing Cold?
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeJesus foretells that "the love of many will grow cold" at the end time. Is this happening right now, or is there love that is just difficult to recognize?
God the Father (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThroughout Christ's life, the relationship between Him and His Father exemplified perfect, reciprocal, unconditional love, providing a perfect template.
Living By Faith and God's Grace (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh'Grace' is a term that represents God's awesome generosity toward us, His continuously flowing blessings and saving acts. It goes beyond just forgiveness.
The True Savior of the World!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod the Father sent Jesus as the true Savior of the world to heal the sick, to comfort the broken-hearted, and to liberate the captives.
Peace, Peace (Part One): Peace with God
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThrough Jesus Christ's death and resurrection, He bears sin, satisfies divine justice, and restores peace between God and repentant believers.
Satan's Lies About the Law
Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Contrary to the assertions of Satanically-inspired men, the consequence for all sin is death. God's law applies to everyone, not just the Israelites.
The Great Flood (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBefore the Flood, human thoughts and attitudes were evil continually, and civilization was rotten to the core. Universal sin was met with universal punishment.
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.
An Unpayable Debt and Obligation
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWhen God calls us and redeems us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we suddenly come under obligation—a debt we cannot pay but overshadows all we do.
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.
The Awesome Cost of Salvation
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe need to be sobered at the awesomeness of the cost to set us free from sin—what the Creator endured. We have been purchased, and are obliged to our Purchaser.