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God's Spiritual Harvest
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsLike Christ, we too are firstfruits, represented by the leavened loaves picturing our acceptance by the Father.
Let the Saints be Joyful in Glory!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe wave sheaf offering and the fifty-day count to Pentecost reveal God's unfolding plan of salvation through a spiritual harvest centered in Jesus Christ, the "first of the first fruits." The waved barley sheaf, offered after the Sabbath during Unleavened Bread, symbolized the risen and accepted Christ, whose perfect sacrifice opened the way for humanity's redemption. From that moment begins a purposeful progression culminating at Pentecost, where two leavened loaves represent God's called people—still imperfect, yet sanctified and accepted through His grace. Empowered by the Holy Spirit given at Pentecost, believers are transformed through obedience, unity, service, and ongoing sanctification as they prepare for their role in God's kingdom. Together, these holy days affirm that God faithfully calls, refines, preserves, and will ultimately glorify His saints as first fruits alongside Christ, assuring them that every trial, act of growth, and step of faith serves His eternal purpose in expanding His divine family.
Psalms: Book Two (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Pentecost season generally corresponds to Book II of the Psalms, Exodus, and the story of Ruth. Major themes include exile, separation, and redemption.
The Very Same Day
Sermon by David C. GrabbeThe 'very same' or 'selfsame' day is a memorial of a past event, typically on the same date, including several of God's appointed times and pronouncements.
Pentecost and Hope
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSimeon's life serves as a precursor to that of God's called-out ones, demonstrating the elements necessary to bring a person to spiritual maturity.
The Helper and the Angel of the Lord
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeChrist frequently used 3rd person titles, such as the Son of Man and the Helper. Just as Christ sent the Helper—Himself—so Yahweh sent His Angel—Himself.
Hebrews (Part Seven): Greater than Angels
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The book of Hebrews systematically proves Christ's superiority to patriarchs, prophets, the Levitical Priesthood, and angels, establishing His credentials.
The Day of Atonement and Israel's Future
Sermonette byThe cleansing of Joshua's filthy robes in Zechariah 3 is a future application of the cleansing in Leviticus 16, when Jesus Christ cleanses Israel in the future.
Jesus in the Feasts (Part Three): Divine King
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe trumpet blast is both a memorial and a proclamation that Almighty God is present, powerful, and personal, reminding us how we must respond.
Who Fulfills the Azazel Goat— Satan or Christ? (Part Four)
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeThe Day of Atonement is not fulfilled with the binding of Satan. Rather, there are numerous prophecies of God atoning for the sins of physical Israel.
The Beatitudes, Part One: The Sermon on the Mount
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Sermon on the Mount is as vitally important today as when Christ preached it. It contains the way we are to live as God's representatives on this earth.
Spiritual Heat Treatment
Sermonette by Christian D. HunterAfter metal has endured its prescribed heat treatment, it glows brightly. Our job, as God's metaphorical metal, is to endure the trials of heat treatments.
Deuteronomy (Part 5)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod's faithfulness is the foundation of our faith. We cannot live by faith unless we believe we have a God who is faithful in everything He does.
Abraham (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham came from a civilization in Mesopotamia that was highly advanced in science, including calculus and chemistry, and having indoor running water.