Reacting to Criticism
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsAll have been guilty of malicious gossip; consequently, they should not become offended when they hear gossip about themselves (Ecclesiastes 7:21).
Sticks and Stones
'Ready Answer' by Ted E. BowlingWhat are we to do when destructive words come our way? We must learn to take everything with much patience and longsuffering, which will result in peace.
A Root of Bitterness
Sermonette by Bill OnisickOnly by letting go of the poisonous root of bitterness can we become like our Elder Brother, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father.
The Honeycomb
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingWords spoken in anger or thoughtlessness, though they may not break bones, can irreparably damage or destroy a person's spirit long after broken bones heal.
Flame Wars
Sermonette by Ryan McClureAre we part of flaming — the aggressive and offensive interaction between Internet users? Or do we pursue righteousness in our speech and communication?
The Great Divide
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityJoe Baity reminds us that we live in a world divided, as seen in the impending implosions of the two major political parties, the fragmentation of the European 'Union,' fratricide among the Islamic factions, race wars, gender wars, class wars, and bitter vitriol, anger, and resentment rule the day. People are no longer hearing …
Reviler
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamAs culture degenerates, the sin of reviling has become more pervasive, as impatient narcissists lash out at others, using foul and abusive language.
Anger (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe dare not let the sun go down on our wrath. Uncontrolled anger can be a major cause of mental and physical illness. We must reconcile with our adversaries.
Pure Language Restored
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMartin Collins, observing that language contains energy, expresses chagrin that advertisements from major corporations seem to be descending to the lowest common denominator. Today we live in a country that praises impulse over restraint, law breaking over law keeping, and foolishness over wisdom. Politically correct language …
The Meekness and Gentleness of Christ
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJesus demonstrated His meekness in His treatment of many with whom He interacted. Balancing firmness and gentleness, He seeks to save rather than destroy.
Conduct of the New Life
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsDriving out the evil must be followed by cultivating goodness and righteousness. An antidote to depression is to get our hearts focused on someone else.
Unity (Part 4)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe voice of God, whether expressed through thunder, events of His providence, handiwork of creation, or the preaching of His truth, is recognizable to His flock.
Gentle and Lowly in Heart
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPaul displayed a gentleness not grounded in weakness, but in strength, a gentleness which showed anger, but only at the right time and to the right degree.
Reconciliation (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus Christ placed a high priority on reconciliation, warning us that before we engage God at the altar, we had better make peace with our brother.
How God Deals With Conscience (Part One)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMartin Collins, reflecting that the human conscience can be incrementally conditioned to tolerate sin, decommissioned, and ultimately put to sleep, asserts that God can restore it to usefulness as He did in the lives of Joseph's brothers, by forcing them to go to the location to which they had sold their brother. God sometimes …
Without a Parable
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughChrist's judgments are made according to what each person has been given. We need to internalize this practice of evaluating, especially regarding a brother.