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Potential for Good
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHuman potential is realized through the process of being broken down and rebuilt by God, not through harsh methods but through trials and self-reflection. God reveals our corruption and sinfulness, contrasting it with the sinless life of Jesus Christ, making us feel insignificant. This realization leads to an understanding of Christ's sacrifice for our salvation, which is a gift we cannot repay. Our potential for good is unlocked through faith in Jesus Christ, leading to justification and the opportunity to rise above our inherent evil. This process involves God's mercy, forbearance, justice, righteousness, and love, all of which are freely given gifts. We are called to actively seek and practice godly traits, such as tender mercies, kindness, humbleness, meekness, longsuffering, bearing with one another, and forgiveness, especially in our relationships with others. These traits must be practiced unilaterally, even at personal cost, as exemplified by Christ's sacrifice. Our ultimate goal is to grow in the holy, righteous character of God, which involves removing sin and building good within ourselves and for others. This journey requires a strong relationship with God, who provides the strength and motivation to do good, even when it involves sacrifice. The rewards of this path are great, though the process is challenging and requires continuous effort and reliance on God's Spirit.
The Unique Greatness of Our God (Part Six)
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughDespite the Bible's dim view of human nature, as seen in Jesus calling us evil and God considering nations as mere dust, there is a profound potential for transformation. God offers us the opportunity to transcend our baseness and be transformed into His image, likened to a caterpillar metamorphosing into a butterfly, but with the potential to become divine. This transformation involves developing holy, righteous character traits, starting with the recognition of our nothingness in comparison to God's everything. The process is described as going on to perfection, a challenging and life-consuming work of sanctification. The ultimate goal is to inherit God's Kingdom, where the transformed saints will live and rule with God eternally, reaping rewards such as glory, power, judgment, and honor. This future is possible because God's purpose is to give His Kingdom to His children.
Psalm 8: What Is Man?
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingPsalm 8 declares that the Creator of the universe has our backs, keeping us under close observation and unfailing protection throughout our sanctification.
Hebrews (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus blazed a trail, giving a pattern for qualifying (through suffering and resisting sin) for our responsibility as priests, reconnecting man and God.
Hebrews (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHebrews is addressed to a people living at the end of an era, who were drifting away, had lost their devotion, and were no longer motivated by zeal.
Adolescent Geriatrics
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHuman potential in the spiritual realm is significant, as highlighted by the expectations set for Christians to mature beyond the basics of the Gospel. Paul expressed disappointment in the Corinthians for not progressing spiritually despite being taught deep spiritual concepts, indicating that even young Christians should be ready to learn and practice deeper spiritual truths. He emphasized that Christians should not remain on the foundational teachings but should strive for spiritual maturity. In Hebrews, Paul's frustration with the long-time believers was evident, as they had not advanced beyond the basic doctrines after many years. He urged them to move forward to perfection, suggesting that spiritual stagnation is not acceptable for Christians who are expected to discern between good and evil and grow in their faith. Peter also addressed the issue of spiritual growth, encouraging believers to lay aside negative traits and to actively pursue a life of holiness and maturity. He focused on the practical application of Christianity in various life situations, reinforcing the need for continuous spiritual development. The ultimate goal for Christians, as stated by Jesus, is to strive for perfection, mirroring the character of God. This high standard is set to encourage believers to reach for spiritual completeness and maturity, preparing them for service in God's Kingdom. Christians are urged to actively work on personal areas of weakness, dedicating themselves to overcoming these challenges as part of their journey towards spiritual maturity.