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Waving the White Flag
Commentary by Joseph B. BaityTwenty years after the events of September 11, 2001, America launched the Global War on Terror, committing vast resources to eliminate Islamic terrorists and their supporters, moving from Afghanistan to Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, and beyond. In Iraq, the United States is down to 2,500 troops, surrounded by Iranian-funded Shiite militia, reflecting the ongoing challenges and unresolved conflicts in the region. Despite declarations of victory over the years, the situation in Iraq and other areas does not convey a clear sense of triumph, as America continues to grapple with the consequences of its military engagements.
Lost Perspective
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center, American forces shifted focus from operations in Afghanistan to an invasion of Iraq that swiftly dismantled the Baathist regime of Saddam Hussein. Coalition troops captured the Iraqi leader, enabling the establishment of a new government amid internal conflicts and persistent violence. The prolonged presence of these forces, primarily American, drew accusations of imperialism and misconduct, fueling domestic debates that framed the Iraq campaign as an extension of the broader War on Terror against radical Muslim jihadists. Political divisions intensified as the Iraq effort became central to electoral contests, prompting an infusion of additional troops intended to stabilize hotspots and support the emerging Iraqi administration while preparing for eventual reductions in force levels. This development illustrated both the challenges of maintaining perspective amid partisan disputes and the tangible gains achieved, including the elimination of Saddam Hussein's regime as part of efforts against the Axis of Evil. Such outcomes reinforced the need for resolve in confronting terrorism, offering a parallel for spiritual perseverance where incremental successes encourage continued overcoming despite surrounding difficulties.
A Little Hypocritical?
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughAs Christians who have some idea of the course of the end time, we need to keep our eyes on the larger matters—what the nations do, not what they say.
The Rise of the Caliphate
'WorldWatch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Islamic State, formed in 1999 and commonly known as 'al-Qaeda in Iraq,' is a Sunni Muslim jihadist group with a hardline ideology and global aspirations.
Should We Fear Terrorism?
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughWith terrorism taking place every day somewhere in the world, how should we as Christians respond? What is a faithful reaction to terrorism?
The Burning Middle East: Revolution or Power-Grab?
'WorldWatch' by David C. GrabbeWhile the geopolitics of North Africa and the Middle East have not substantially changed, Iran may benefit the most from the ongoing turmoil.
The Fractured Middle East
'WorldWatch' by David C. GrabbeWesterners tend to put all Muslims in a box as a unified front. The reality, though, is that Islam is as fractured and sectarian as any other religion.
The Paradox of U.S. Power and Defeat
'WorldWatch' by David C. GrabbeSince World War II, the U.S. has rarely fought a successful military action, be it Korea, Cuba, Vietnam, Iran, or Iraq, yet it stands as a lone superpower.
The Axis of Evil and the Western Coalition
'WorldWatch' by David C. GrabbeGod warned ancient Israel against putting their trust in alliances with other peoples. If only the modern nations of Israel would heed His counsel!
Anti-Americanism Abroad
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughGod prophesies that Israel will be conquered in the end time. Could anti-American sentiment, especially in Europe, be the beginning of the end?
Prudence
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamWe should not bring about needless persecution on ourselves or on the body of Christ because of our foolish texting, posting, tweeting, or e-mailing.
All About Edom (Part Two)
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughEsau was prophesied to be the father of a nation, Edom, and the Bible gives us plenty of clues about the character of his descendants.
The Haditha Non-Story
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughNow that sober investigations have been done and pre-trial hearings have taken place, it seems that the media was once again horribly wrong.
The Handwriting Is on the Wall (2002)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe prophecy of Deuteronomy 28:42-49 concerns the curse of the stranger rising higher and higher above us, displacing our Israelitish culture with a foreign one.
The Price of Arrogance
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughNo matter whether it is good policy or not, a close-to-the-vest style of governance infuriates friend and foe alike because it comes across as arrogant.
The Present and Future Crisis (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe need to exercise diligence, acquiring economic stability by submitting to God's counsel, sacrificing now before forces usurp our economic substance.
Deception by Silence
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThose who are obeying Christ's command to 'watch therefore, and pray always' should not be so naïve as to trust any one source for news of the world.
Abraham (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham came from a civilization in Mesopotamia that was highly advanced in science, including calculus and chemistry, and having indoor running water.