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What Is Faith?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletFaith, as described, is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen. It is the confidence that precedes possession, the substance that assures us we shall receive what we ask for, even before we see or feel it. This confidence is not rooted in the physical senses of seeing, hearing, or feeling, but in a spiritual trust in God's promises. Faith is the evidence that God will act according to His Word, regardless of what our human nature might perceive through tangible proof. In a metaphorical trial where God is accused of unfaithfulness, the evidence of faith stands as the defense. This evidence is not something visible or tangible but a patient trust in the truth of God's Word. Faith requires us to rely on His promises, even when the physical reality seems contrary, and to maintain that trust until He fulfills what He has assured. It is this confidence that God cannot lie and will perform what He has promised that defines true faith. Faith is the ingredient we must exercise until God's promise is realized. It is not a fleeting moment of belief but a steadfast reliance on His Word, unaffected by delays or the absence of immediate results. This confidence must remain firm, trusting God to act in His own time and way, beyond our expectations or understanding. Ultimately, faith is the assurance that God's Word is true, and it is through this confidence that we receive what He has promised.
Faith and the Christian Fight (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Bible abounds in metaphors of warfare, indicating that the Christian's walk will be characterized by stress, sacrifice, and deprivation in building faith.
Faith to Face the Fire
'Ready Answer' by StaffWe sometimes mistake faith for certainty about God's will. However, faith is not knowing what God will do but trusting Him to do what is best for us.
A Pre-Passover Look
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe must thoroughly examine ourselves, exercising and strengthening our faith, actively giving love back to God, to avoid taking Passover in a careless manner.
Faith (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe would like God to instantly gratify our desires. Consequently, we find living by faith difficult; we do not trust that He has things under control.
Faith and Prayer
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughConstant, earnest prayer keeps faith alive and makes certain the receiving of the qualities that make us in the image of God. God's purpose comes first.
Living a Life that Pleases God
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaEven as Enoch lived a life that pleased God, the Scriptures identify seven qualities that enable us to live a life that pleases God.
Endure as a Good Soldier
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn God's plan, the development of uncompromising character requires struggle and sacrifice. Our victory requires continual drill, tests and development of discipline.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 13)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughCommitment to a course of action is essential for physical or spiritual success. Faith motivates and sustains right action, protecting us from wavering.
Prayer and Fervency
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLiving faith has its roots in fervently, diligently seeking God and His righteousness with intense desire (like a passionate lover) through habitual prayer.
Hebrews (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWe must emulate Christ, who learned through suffering, preparing Himself for His role as High Priest. Giving in alienates us from the fellowship with God.
Where Do We Fit?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The church exists because of what God has purposed and done, not because anything we have done. When pride exists within us, God can do nothing with us.
Harden Not Your Heart
Sermon by John O. ReidWe are warned in Hebrews not to harden our hearts, not to let the precious truth of God drift away, realizing that we have been called with a high calling.
Love and Fellowship
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFellowship with God is the only antidote to overwhelming feelings of despair, doubt, and self-condemnation.
Hebrews (Part Eleven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHebrews emphasizes the infinite superiority of Christ's priesthood and one-time sacrifice as contrasted to the repetitive Aaronic sacrifices.
The Christian Fight (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Christian life is a constant battle against our own human natures, this evil world, and spiritual foes who do not want to see us inherit the Kingdom.