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No Private Interpretation
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the four gospels, which lay the foundation for understanding the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the significance of Bethlehem emerges in relation to the Messiah's coming. The gospel writers, particularly Matthew, highlight how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, including those tied to Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Savior. Despite the clear predictions in God's Word, many first-century Jews, burdened by traditional misunderstandings, failed to recognize the prophetic events unfolding before them. Their refusal to submit to God's knowledge led them to misinterpret the signs, even as Jesus, their God, Yahweh, provided unassailable proof through His life and actions.
Recognizing the Second Witness
Article by Charles WhitakerThe Jingoists understood that Christ would come from Bethlehem, the home of David. Yet, they missed the detail of Micah's prophecy, which states that the Messiah would come forth from Bethlehem, not necessarily reside there, which is precisely what happened. Joseph came to Bethlehem at Jesus' birth to pay taxes in his hometown. Both Joseph and Mary hailed from Bethlehem, with ancestors including David, Jesse, Obed, and Boaz, all men of that place. Sometime after Christ's birth, Joseph returned to Nazareth in Galilee, where he and Mary reared Jesus. Additionally, shortly after Christ's birth, Joseph and Mary left Bethlehem for Jerusalem to bring a sacrifice for Mary's purification and to dedicate Christ as a firstborn to God, in accordance with His laws.
Christ as Provider
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughBoaz, a wealthy man, came from Bethlehem, which means House of Bread, suggesting he hails from a place of plenty. As the owner of the field where Ruth gleaned, his origins in Bethlehem highlight a connection to abundance and provision, aligning with his role as a protector and provider for Ruth during the harvest.
Jesus and the Feast (Part Two): Belief in the Spirit
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughOn the last day of the Feast, Jesus proclaimed Himself as the One who will dispense God's Spirit, amplifying the promise He had made to the woman at the well.
Announcing . . . Christ's Birth!
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe blending of paganism with inspired Scripture has degraded and obscured the meaning and glory of what happened in the announcement of Jesus Christ's birth.
John (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe apostle John has provided at least eight separate forms of witness, establishing the veracity of Jesus Christ's identity as God in the flesh.
Matthew (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughMatthew wrote his account with the Jews in mind, repeatedly saying, 'This was done to fulfill the prophets,' emphasizing the law and the Kingdom of God.
Boaz and Pentecost
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe name of Boaz (a type of Christ) appears many times more than Ruth (a type of the church), indicating Christ's intense work on behalf of the church.
Pentecost and the Book of Ruth
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAlthough many lessons of the book of Ruth allude to Old Covenant teachings, Ruth prefigures New Covenant principles such as mercy, Christ's care, and acceptance.
Themes of Ruth (Part One): Naomi
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughNaomi's attractive personality, selflessness, godly conviction and common sense characterize her relationship with her Gentile daughters-in-law.
Matthew (Part Twenty-One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe Pharisees and Sadducees, who normally opposed each other, joined forces against their common enemy, Jesus. They should have recognized Him as the Messiah.
Jesus Christ's Trial (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe arrest, trials, and crucifixion of Jesus were unlawful at every turn. Here are 5 reasons why.
Meet the Minor Prophets (Part Two)
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe twelve books of the Minor Prophets—including Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, and Micah—are often overlooked in favor of the Major Prophets and the four gospels.
Micah (Part Two): Rest for the Restless
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMicah describes the current state of America, in which the former checks and balances between the three branches of government have rapidly deteriorated,
Prepared for Goliath
Sermonette by Christian D. HunterDavid did not use the implements of King Saul because he had not tried them out. Instead, he used the sling—the tool he already knew.
Have You Had Your Manna Today?
'Ready Answer' by StaffGod gave Israel manna to eat every day for forty years. Today, we have God's Word as our daily bread. Are we taking advantage of it, or are we allowing it to spoil?
Truth (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOnly a converted person humbles himself before the truth, making a conscientious effort to follow the light of evidence, even to unwelcome conclusions.