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Knowing God: Formality and Customs (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFormality and decorum (in terms of dress and behavior) are part of godly standards and sanctity. We must always look for the spirit and intent of what God commands.
The Third Commandment
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsDishonoring God's name breaks the third commandment, and it reaches far beyond careless speech. God's name expresses His character, so anyone who uses it in a way that denies who God is becomes unclean and guilty. A person who talks about God continually but denies Him in daily conduct profanes His name. The Canaanite nations defiled themselves and the land by violating this commandment, and God warned Israel not to repeat the sin (Leviticus 18). Israel profaned His name by offering blemished animals while keeping the best for themselves, a lying and deceitful attitude like that of Ananias and Sapphira. Prayer without obedience is blasphemy, as is praise offered in rebellion against His way; such worship is vain, useless, and contemptible. Blaspheming or cursing His name is a grave offense (Leviticus 24:16). Jesus commands against swearing oaths by His name, because God's name is too holy to invoke as backing for our words. Repeating His name often, or mentioning it only when convenient, accomplishes nothing. Those who call Jesus "Lord" but fail to obey the revelation of Himself in His names will not enter the Kingdom (Matthew 7:21). Since Christians bear His name from baptism, failing to live up to its reputation also profanes it. God is greatly concerned with how His name is used, and honoring it means obeying Him in all conduct and giving Him our best effort.
The Third Commandment
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughMany think the Third Commandment merely prohibits profane speech. In reality, it regulates the purity and quality of our worship of the great God.
The Commandments (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe prohibition against taking God's name in vain is the least understood commandment. When we bear God's name, we are to bear His character and nature.
Holiness (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHoly things are set apart from the rest, consecrated, sanctified, and transcendentally separate. God wants to transform us into that very image.
Flavorless Salt
'Ready Answer' by Hunter D. SwansonThe apostle Paul advises Christians to speak graciously, our speech 'seasoned with salt.' We must control what we say because it exposes our hearts.
Today's Brand of Tolerance
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)'Tolerance,' as used by progressives, does not reflect real tolerance at all, but instead an adamant hatred of anything associated with God and His words.
The Fourth Commandment (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFocusing on material and temporal things undermines faith. The Sabbath is holy time, created for building faith, energizing our minds for fellowship with God.
Taking Your Priestly Responsibilities Seriously!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod is training us as a holy priesthood, called to offer unblemished sacrifices, honoring His name, putting down pride, presumptuousness, and arrogance.
The Elder Brother
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingLike the older brother in the parable, we may have looked down on those who have stumbled. We are not equipped to judge anybody else's repentance.
What Is Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeIn Matthew 12:31-32, Jesus warns the Pharisees about crossing a line that cannot be uncrossed, an act commonly called 'the unpardonable sin.'