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Fear and Trembling
CGG Weekly by John W. RitenbaughThe Bible often employs the imagery of shaking or trembling to depict the intense terror and panic that overtakes those who suddenly realize their lives may be at risk. This imagery frequently illustrates the heightened emotional reaction of a nation upon hearing news of an approaching army, particularly God's army. Moses trembled and averted his eyes when he understood at the burning bush that he was in the presence of the God of the patriarchs. Isaiah, upon seeing the Lord on His throne and hearing the doorpost-jarring voice of a seraph, feared for his life, believing he was as good as dead for having witnessed His glory. Ezekiel, similarly, was driven flat on his face in fear, so drained of strength that he needed assistance to stand. The most terrifying shaking to demonstrate God's power before mankind is yet to come, universal in scope, accompanying Jesus Christ's return. This event, focused on Jerusalem, underscores a profound spiritual importance for Christians. We are urged not to refuse Him who speaks from heaven, whose voice will shake not only the earth but also heaven, removing those things that can be shaken so that what cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace to serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear, for our God is a consuming fire. God calls on His children to avoid the self-absorbed lethargy of this world, reminding us that judgment is now on His house. Those who do not pass His muster will be denied protection from the horrifying earthquake at Christ's return, a terror so great that people will plead for death. Our attention must be riveted on pleasing Him, focusing on the spiritual things that cannot be shaken.
Godly Fear is Humble Reverence
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingThe fear and trembling before God is more like reverence and awe instead of abject terror. It leads us to total dependence upon God with a desire to repudiate sin.
Fear the Lord's Goodness!
'Ready Answer' by Martin G. CollinsThere is an aspect of God's goodness that is rarely associated with goodness. As surprising as it may seem, God's goodness can be feared!
Sin, Christians, and the Fear of God
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughScripture takes a very stern view of sin because it is failure to live up to God's standard and destroys relationships, especially our relationship with God.
Facing Times of Stress: Fear of the Future
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPaul's admonition to Timothy to stir up God's Holy Spirit applies just as much today when we sometimes become blindsided by fears about the future.
The Fear of God (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAfter the Spirit of God is imparted, removing the fear of men and installing the life-sustaining fear of God, the real dramatic growth takes place.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the example of a child summoned by a parent to clean up his room, the child's dawdling and complaining are not predestined nor are they part of God's will.
Amending the Soil
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the Parable of the Sower, Christ describes different qualities of soil. We must respond properly to the implantation of the seed—the word of God.
Snapshots (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeEven if a present snapshot of our lives looks dismal, it cannot reveal what happens next. What happens next is in God's hands—and He finishes what He starts.
Sin Defined and Overcome
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughSin creates estrangement from God, causing us to fail in everything we attempt. Sin always produces separation; it never heals, but causes death.
The Sovereignty of God: Part Seven
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughOne aspect of sovereignty that causes some confusion is predestination. God's sovereignty does not remove a person's free moral agency — we must still choose.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Ten)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike Job, we must surrender to God's will and purpose for our lives, realizing that both pleasant and horrendous times work for our spiritual development.
Be Anxious For Nothing
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFear and anxiety are normal human emotions. But through changing our focus from earthly to heavenly things, we can rise above the concerns, remembering Who is with us.
Philippians (Part Five)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ, through His voluntary humility, has given us a model of the mindset that we need to have in order to attain membership in the family of God.