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Conflicts In The Body
Sermonette by Ryan McClureAs members of God's family, we must be quick to forgive one another for real or imagined slights. Those in God's Kingdom, will all be working together.
Fruit of the Flesh - On Conflict
Sermonette byAs God's chosen saints, we must not let our keyboard or mouth defile us. Godly conversation includes stifling the urge to win the argument at all costs.
Globalism (Part Eight): A Force for Conflict
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles WhitakerConflict, as a defining force of our time, emerges through the struggle between globalism and tribalism, two intertwined pillars that both support and challenge the fabric of civilization. Globalism carries within it the seeds of integration and disintegration, enabling nations, including Israel's enemies, to access advanced information and technologies, thus rapidly developing robust military, communication, and transportation infrastructures. In the Orient, primarily among the descendants of Japheth, the potential for massive military power projection is evident, with the capability to mobilize an army of 200 million men to march on the Middle East, a feat of staggering logistical complexity. China, with its People's Liberation Army of 2.8 million, stands as the world's largest military force, yet remains focused on internal security amid economic disparities and lack of mobility in its western provinces. The growth of a middle class, fueled by globalization, could either foster democratic tendencies or lead to collapse under the weight of political and economic pressures, potentially resulting in military dictatorship or systemic instability. An unstable China poses a significant danger, as historical periods of weakness and disunity have proven disastrous not only for the nation but also for international peace and stability. The future trajectory of China's political and military power remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from integration into global capitalism to a retreat into autocratic rule, each carrying profound implications for conflict on a global scale.
A Peaceful Spirit
CGG Weekly by Gary MontgomeryIn this world of constant change, conflict and animosity often arise unexpectedly, inspired by a spirit of chaos and hatred. As Christians, we face the challenge of responding to such contention while striving to be different from the world's ways. Contention breeds disunity, a curse that began when unity and peace were shattered by sin, leading to inevitable discord. Our relationships with others reflect our relationship with God, and failing to love our brother reveals a disconnect in our spiritual walk. Despite our desire for quick resolutions, some conflicts are deeply rooted, requiring us to forbear with each other in love, enduring contention patiently while interacting humbly and righteously. Pride fuels strife, whereas humility soothes and unifies, and a gentle manner, contrary to cultural competitiveness, cultivates peace. Harsh words stir anger, but a soft answer can turn away wrath, guiding us to avoid reacting impulsively and escalating minor issues into major disturbances. We are called to pursue peace actively, making it a fixed goal and striving to create it within ourselves and our surroundings. Christians should focus on points of agreement, especially on matters of greatest importance, while handling disputes over minor issues with love and goodheartedness. God desires to eliminate contention among His children, preparing them for a future where peace reigns supreme. If we imitate Christ's peacemaking example and follow His guidance, there would be more harmony and fewer disputes among brethren, as He came to guide our feet into the way of peace.
'Sons of God?'
Sermonette byGod gave Jesus Christ to us to restore peace, reconciliation, and harmony with God. In the Beatitudes, the peacemakers are called 'sons of God.'
Harmony with God and the Brethren
Sermonette byGod's people are like a musical ensemble, each having unique pitches and timbre. As we yield to our Conductor, we also blend with one another, creating harmony.
Building Relationships
Sermonette byThe Scriptures provide many examples of how difficult relationships were dealt with by humility, deference, longsuffering, and prayer.
Godly Tact and Diplomacy
Article by David F. MaasUnity and reconciliation are vital, and a key component in achieving them is the skillful handling of conflict through tact and diplomacy. The apostle Paul, a master diplomat, urged in Romans 12:18 to live peaceably with all men as much as possible. He understood the deep human need to preserve self-image and consistency, recognizing that people resist ideas threatening their self-concepts. Instead of using debate or argumentation to dominate others, Paul employed a method of diplomatic persuasion, focusing on empathy and understanding the other person's perspective. He sought to build bridges of common ground, as seen in his approach on Mars Hill, where he started at his audience's level of understanding and highlighted shared similarities. Paul also lavished compliments and acknowledged cultural debts to both Greeks and Jews, showing respect for diverse backgrounds. To the Pharisees, he pointed out shared beliefs about the resurrection, and to others, he revealed his Roman citizenship when appropriate. His approach to conflict resolution included conveying understanding, identifying valid points in others' positions, and finding shared moral qualities like honesty and integrity to reach mutually acceptable solutions, all while refusing to compromise core values. This method offers a pathway to unity without sacrificing essential beliefs.
The Zero-Sum Game
Commentary by Mark SchindlerDespite the often wrong-headed propaganda promoted by the mainstream media, voices of common sense and logic occasionally manage to ascend to power.
'I Want To Be First'
CGG Weekly by Ronny H. GrahamSatan challenged God because he wanted to be first. God, on the other hand, competes with no one. Nor does He desire us to compete with each other.
Out Of Egypt
Sermonette by Ryan McClureThe Israelites witnessed many miracles, but their attention was short-lived as they prevailed upon Aaron to make a golden calf. They never really left Egypt.
A Root of Bitterness (2016)
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.
Vengeance is Mine
Sermonette byChrist counsels us to love our enemies in order that we may be children of God, demonstrating not only His mercy but also our sonship by being peacemakers.
Satan, Division, and Humility
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughCompetition is the root cause of war, business takeovers, and marital discord. Solomon describes man's rivalry with one another as a striving after wind.
Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus teaches us how to deal with offenses and sins against us in this parable, focusing on our attitude of forgiveness because of being forgiven ourselves.
Unity Through Humility
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughCompetition in the church can lead to disaster, destroying harmony and unity. Competition and pride destroy unity; humility and cooperation enhance unity.
Unity
Sermon by James BeaubelleThe virtue of love is the overarching framework for unity, demanding rigorous control over the tongue, understanding its capacity to destroy.
The Beatitudes, Part 7: Blessed Are the Peacemakers
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThis world lauds warmakers, but God says that peacemakers are blessed. The first step in becoming a peacemaker is to be reconciled to God.
Isaac the Peacemaker
Sermonette byIsaac was a genuine peacemaker, yielding to interlopers and suffering wrong while trusting God to provide. In all his actions, Isaac exemplified a peacemaker.
Unity (Part 7): Ephesians 4 (D)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBecause of our lack of self-discipline and willingness to guard the truth, we have allowed our theological base to deteriorate under the persuasion of the world.
How to Offend Someone
Sermon by Ryan McClureEven though offense is inevitable, we must emulate Christ's love by avoiding unnecessary harm while prioritizing the spiritual growth of others.
Lost and Found: The Power of Apologies and Forgiveness
Sermonette by Jared M. EllisForgiving, even when there is no apology, reflects the Father and Jesus Christ. The prodigal son is a story of the deep love we should have towards each other.
CGG Anniversary: Summary and Thank You
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughOn this 11th anniversary of CGG, John Ritenbaugh reflects on the expectations, the accomplishments, and the prospects for the future of our part of God's work.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Meekness
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughMeekness is often confused with weakness and considered to be undesirable. But Jesus lists it as a primary virtue of one who will inherit His Kingdom.
Discord From Self-Determination
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsAmong the six things that God hates (Proverbs 6:16) is those who sow discord among the brethren. Discord, though effective, never has a productive purpose.
Restoration and Forgiveness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIt is impossible to grow spiritually in a climate of animosity and jealousy. If we use the power of God's Holy Spirit, peace will accrue as a fruit.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Peace
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe world has little or no idea what true peace is or how it is achieved. Yet we can produce godly peace even in the midst of turmoil—and we must.
Differences of Opinion
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSatan champions self-opinion and mob behavior. God's church has never been immune to division because each member has only part of the truth.
Isaiah 58 and Fasting
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFasting puts us in a proper humble and contrite frame of mind, allowing God to respond to us, freeing us from our burdens and guiding us into His Kingdom.
Mutability and Our Christlike Response
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe all change repeatedly throughout the stages of life, as do others, requiring constant adjustment as to how we evaluate and treat others.
Titus (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe have the commission to be witnesses to a corrupt society. It is in the closeness of the crowd that we have the greatest potential to grow spiritually.
Anger (Part Two)
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.
The Spiritual Mark of the Beast
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAnger and hostility, driven by self-centered competitive pride constitute Satan's spiritual mark that divides nations, ethnic groups, families, and the church.
Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsTrue justice and mercy are inseparable attributes of God's character and foundational obligations for His people. Scripture consistently teaches that justice requires impartial accountability and proportional consequences, while mercy extends compassionate forgiveness without nullifying righteousness. From Zechariah's call to execute true justice with compassion, to Christ's command to forgive as we have been forgiven, and James' declaration that "mercy triumphs over judgment," the Bible reveals that believers must reflect God's perfect balance of holiness and grace. Divine mercy never excuses guilt, nor does justice exclude love; together they display God's righteous character. Having received immeasurable mercy through Christ, believers are called to administer justice fairly, forgive generously, reject partiality, and extend compassionate care even to those who deserve none. In doing so, they honor God, imitate Christ, and bear witness to a world in need of both truth and grace.
Our Words Matter: Are They Harmful or Helpful?
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingEmotional damage from hurtful words is more harmful to our nervous system than we have imagined, lingering long past the healing time of any cut or broken bone
'But I Say to You' (Part Two): Murder and Anger
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMurder originates in the heart. Nothing from the outside defiles a man but originates in the heart governed by carnal human nature.
Faith (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe hallmark of Christian character is humility, which comes about only when one sees himself in comparison to God. Pride makes distorted comparisons.
The Peacemakers
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen people are not in a right relationship with God, peace is impossible. Sin (the breaking of the law or covenant) automatically breaks the peace.
Spiritual Gifts: Unity, Edification, and Order
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughPaul desires to convey to the Corinthians three primary principles to help them use and manage the gifts God had graciously and abundantly bestowed on them.
Grateful For Reconciliation
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must remember what we were and how far God has brought us out of that place, pulled out of the muck and brought into His glory.
Rejection Hurts
CGG Weekly by John ReissNo one has felt more rejection than Jesus Christ. He was rejected by those of His hometown, and His own physical brothers rejected Him because they did not believe.
'This Gospel of the Kingdom Shall Be Preached'
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeMany fail to understand that Matthew 24:14 is a prophecy and instead read it as a commission. God will ensure His gospel is preached; we follow His lead.
The Cost of Reconciliation
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughReconciliation is the product of a sacrifice to pacify the wrath of an offended person. We must imitate Christ in His approach toward hostility from others.