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Prophecy's Place
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughSome people seem to hold that most of the Bible is prophecy, and that opinion is a shame. While they would admit that the Bible contains more than prophecy, they virtually ignore the other two-thirds of the Book, the parts containing history and instruction. Prophecy, though, is cool. Its imagery and symbolism are fascinating with strange beasts, lurid women, armies and battles, plagues and destruction, conquering kings, and even a red dragon. It is infused with a sense of mystery and expectation. There are enigmatic numbers to ponder, riddles to solve, and word plays to decipher. Moreover, many prophecy buffs believe that the preponderance of the Bible's predictions will come about soon, heightening the excitement. For evangelists, prophecy makes a wonderful hook to get people interested in God's Word. As a hook, prophecy works well, but as a steady staple in our spiritual diet, it eventually produces deficiencies in spiritual health. We should know the Bible's prophecies, be watching world events, and contemplate how current events might fit the Bible's scenarios. However, we should do none of these things at the expense of studying and applying other essential aspects of spiritual growth.
The Place of Prophecy
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughBible students often recognize that prophecy constitutes a significant portion of Scripture, yet it becomes the sole focus of study for some, which is regrettable. Prophecy captivates with its vivid imagery and symbolism—strange beasts, lurid figures, armies, battles, plagues, destruction, conquering kings, and even a red dragon. It carries a sense of mystery and expectation, with enigmatic numbers, riddles, and word plays to unravel. Many prophecy enthusiasts are driven by the belief that the majority of biblical predictions are imminent, intensifying their fascination. While prophecy serves as an effective tool for evangelists to draw interest in God's Word, relying on it as a primary spiritual focus leads to deficiencies in spiritual health. It should not overshadow the importance of doctrine and Christian living. The ultimate purpose of prophecy is to glorify God, showing His work in His plan across millennia, proving His existence and power, and demonstrating His sovereignty in human affairs. However, an obsession with prophecy can distract from the core aim of Christianity, which is to reflect the image of His Son, not to predict outcomes or timelines with certainty.
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.
Don't Lose Your Focus!
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPaul urged that we get our focus more balanced, emphasizing love over prophetic correctness, not remaining indifferent to what Christ deemed important.
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.
'As a Thief in the Night'
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeChrist's second coming is described as being like 'a thief in the night.' Here is what it means for Christians living in the end times.
Praying Always (Part One)
Article by Pat HigginsLuke 21:36 says to 'Watch and pray always....' Does this refer to watching world events, or is there more to this verse spiritually than meets the eye?
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.
The Beast and Babylon (Part Three): Who Is the Woman?
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughIs the Woman depicted in Revelation 12 the church, as the church has dogmatically taught? Or is she another prophetic entity that is active today?
Establishing Our Hearts Before Christ's Return
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJames emphasizes patience five times, suggesting that it is a capstone of saintly character, encompassing long-suffering, forbearance, and self-restraint.
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.
Letters to Seven Churches (Part One): Introduction
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must keep the spiritual lessons of the letters, not just figure out prophecies. There are several ways to view them, but the most important is personally.
Shrugging Off Scoffers (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAny prophetic speculation, accurate or not, is useless unless it is promotes diligence in living godly lives, eagerly preparing for the return of Christ.
The Two Witnesses (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod's truth may bring about sadness, astonishment, anger, and bitterness to the one delivering the message. James and John were types of the Two Witnesses.
Patiently Waiting for Christ's Return
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe must develop an active, God-given restraint and constancy in endurance while facing trials and waiting for Christ's return, trusting that God will provide.
Stand Firm in the Truth
Sermon by John O. ReidIn this time of sharp religious confusion, it is good to hunker down in our spiritual foxhole until the deadly volleys of heretical shrapnel have ceased.
'Children Are Their Oppressors'
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamAnyone with eyes and a modicum of common sense can see the prophecy of Isaiah 3:12 unfold before us, with children as our oppressors and women as our rulers.
The Handwriting Is on the Wall (1997)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe scattering of the church of God reflects a more general trend on the world scene—the disintegration of the major religions into millions of pieces.