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Suffering Disgrace For Christ's Name
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIn a world marked by struggle and violence, members of God's church endure increasing persecution and disgrace for the name of Jesus Christ. This reality has persisted since He established the church, as seen in the book of Acts where opposition from without emerges as a significant danger. In Acts 5:17-42, the Jewish leaders, driven by jealousy and indignation, refused to utter the name of Jesus Christ, referring to Him only as "this man" to avoid defiling their lips. Their distress was fueled by the apostles' preaching and miracles performed in His name, a name they associated with a false prophet and blasphemer whom they had crucified. Despite their efforts to suppress it, the name of Jesus Christ continued to be proclaimed before the people, intensifying their opposition. The apostles, however, stood firm, rejoicing in the privilege to suffer for His name. They defied orders to stop preaching in the name of Jesus Christ, declaring their obedience to God over human authority. Their witness grew stronger through persecution, as they continued to preach and teach daily, both publicly and in private homes, undeterred by threats or beatings. The Sanhedrin's attempts to silence them only magnified the church's testimony, fulfilling the principle that the more the church is persecuted, the greater its witness becomes. Believing in the name of Jesus Christ often subjects Christians to disgrace, ridicule, and shame, as the world views the duties of prayer, praise, and benevolence as degrading. Yet, the apostles and believers are called to stand with righteous pride in what they have been given through Him, remembering His warning that if they are ashamed of Him, He will be ashamed of them. Through trials and persecution, God's grace strengthens His disciples, enabling them to conquer challenges and grow in faith, just as it did for the early church.
The Plain Truth About the "Sacred Name"
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletDo we have to refer to the members of the God Family as Yahweh, Jehovah, or other Hebrew names in order to be saved? Is this God's intent, or superstition?
Peace with God Through Christ
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe only possibility of attaining peace is a relationship with God—peace with God through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, which must continually be refined.
Peter's Pentecost Sermon
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe signs that accompanied Peter's Pentecost sermon attracted attention, confirmed God's Word, and provided meaning to the effects of the Holy Spirit.
Camouflage and Salvation
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSatan has provided what appear to be plausible alternatives to Christ's sacrifice for salvation, like service, positive changes, and right thinking.
Acts (Part Five)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe witness of the apostles, particularly miraculous healings performed in the name of Jesus Christ, brought them into conflict with the Jewish leaders.
The Gift of Eternal Life
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe difference between living forever and eternal life is that longevity does not equate to quality of life. Living forever while enduring pain lacks appeal.
John (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughEven many extra-biblical sources such as Tacitus, Seconius, Justin Martyr, Pliny, and Josephus corroborate and validate the biblical accounts of Jesus.
Acts (Part Eleven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe conversion of Cornelius is nearly as pivotal as the original Pentecost because the Gentiles are given the same portal of salvation offered to Israel.
Four Warnings (Part Three): I Never Knew You
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist's third warning in the Sermon on the Mount is to beware of hypocrisy, professing to do things in Jesus' name but habitually practicing lawlessness.
The Judgments
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMultiple billions of people have lived and died without even hearing the name of Jesus Christ. But God has distinct periods of judgment and resurrection.
Do You Really Want Just Any Eternal Life?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe have a natural desire for eternal life, but living endlessly would not be a blessing if our circumstances were miserable. Eternal life means quality of life.
Remembering Your Vows
Sermon by John O. ReidLike the marriage covenant, counting the cost is the most serious part of the baptismal agreement, not something to be taken lightly.
Responding to God's Pruning Is Not Passive (Part Two)
Sermon by David F. MaasBriars, thistles, thorns, and weeds are visible emblems of sin or its consequences, which we must pull up by the roots for the balance of our physical life.
Those Who Live in the Light
Sermonette by Ryan McClureWe suffer persecution because We embrace the truth and light, which terrifies those who love to live in darkness, defying God's holy and spiritual laws.
Privileges of the Family of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIt is impossible to be a Christian without being a child of God. When we are in God's family, we have distinct privileges.
Love and Fellowship
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFellowship with God is the only antidote to overwhelming feelings of despair, doubt, and self-condemnation.