Filter by Categories
Love's Basic Definition
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLove is presented as the bond of perfection, the unifying force that ties all virtues together and enables their proper use. It is described as the greatest of all qualities, surpassing even faith and hope, though they are closely linked as a unity. Love is complete and permanent, never failing or ending, enduring and bearing all things. It is the aim of faith and hope, meant to be the dominating influence in a person's life, and something to be continually pursued, as one can never have enough of it. Love is not limited to specific qualities but encompasses a broad range of attributes, serving as the glue that binds them together. It is portrayed as a debt owed to others daily, a never-ending obligation that renews each morning. This multifaceted quality includes many fine traits, but without love as the bond, even noble characteristics like courage can be used destructively. Thus, love ensures that these qualities are directed rightly. God's love originates in Himself, is manifested in His Son, and is perfected in His people. This perfection occurs as a cycle: God's love flows to His people, extends to others, especially within the fellowship, and returns to Him. It matures as it is used, growing and becoming more skillful through practice, blessing both the giver and the receiver despite its costliness. Love is primarily expressed within the fellowship, strengthening the body and enhancing the witness to the world. Love is an action, proven by obedience to God's commandments, which define its basic elements and direct its course. It often requires acting despite contrary feelings, overcoming them through reasoned effort and faith to follow God's guidance. As one acts in love, feelings are re-educated by His Spirit, aligning with the right actions, enabling sincere love even toward enemies. The love of God, perfected in those who keep His Word, combines right action with right feeling, forming a cycle of growth and completion in relationship with Him.
Love's Importance and Source
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod is the source of real love; mankind by nature does not have it. It is only by knowing God that we can have this love. Godly love is a cycle that God initiates.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Love
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughLove is the first fruit of the Spirit, the one trait of God that exemplifies His character. The Bible defines love as both what it is and what it does.
Perfect, Gentle Courtesy (Part 3)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsParents are obligated to teach God's laws to their children. According to Emily Post, good manners are to the family what good morals are to society.
Giving a Gift Strengthens and Bonds
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsGiving a gift strengthens the bond between individuals, bringing about a warm feeling in the giver toward the one receiving the gift.
The Unleavened Bread of Perfection
CGG Weekly by Clyde FinkleaKeeping the leaven out is very important in its own right. However, our primary focus should not be on the leavened bread but on the unleavened bread.
'By What Every Joint Supplies'
'Ready Answer' by StaffOne of our primary duties as Christians is to build strong, loving relationships with our brethren. What are you supplying to the growth of the body?
God's Perseverance With His Saints (Part Three)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe unity Jesus appeals for with His disciples is not organizational unity, but unity within the divine nature, exampled in the unity between He and the Father.
Unsharpened
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityThe church of God may have focused too intensely on elusive esoteric principles and neglected the basics, such as developing solid relationships.
The Identifying Sign of a True Disciple of Jesus
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaThe Navy SEALs' fear is not of death, but of failing their team, parallel to the bond Jesus Christ desires among His disciples.
By This Shall All Men Know You
Sermon by John O. ReidA native practice involves leaving a young man on a remote island with only a bow and arrows until he learns to become a man, and God does something similar.
Thank You for Finishing What You Start!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe should be thankful to God for His Holy Spirit, spiritual blessings, fellowship, as well as God's promise that He will finish what He has started.
We Are Part of Something Special
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingAs we mature, our rough edges become smoothed, and we become thankful for the bond between us, looking for ways to edify one another.
Leadership and the Covenants (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We are being trained to become leaders, but before we can lead, we must be able to carry out responsibilities, conforming to God's leadership and covenants.
Unifying Behaviors
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughEvery righteous, selfless act of outgoing concern we perform promotes unity within the church, drawing brethren closer together, suggesting a spiritual law.
Leadership and Covenants (Part Four)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughEven though Christians have been called to follow Christ, their journey to the Kingdom of God is preparation for leadership under Him.
Godly Friendship: A Priceless Commodity
Article by David F. MaasHere is how we should cultivate and appreciate our friendships, for they are a necessary tool in growing in godliness.