A Virtuous Woman
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe phrase "a virtuous woman" means "woman of worth," "woman of strength," or "woman of noble character." It denotes a woman of skill, aptitude, or achievement.
God's Enduring Mercy
CGG Weekly by Ronny H. GrahamOur hearts may overflow with compassion for someone in need, and it could be in our power to help, but if we take no positive action, what good is it?
Mercy
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamMercy is an important dimension of God's character, displayed by our compassion on and forgiveness of those over whom we have power.
Essence of Love
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaDavid took all the persecutions from King Saul, and then later showed his mercy to Saul's extended family, he demonstrated the true essence of godly love.
I Pledge Allegiance
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, reflecting on America's Pledge of Allegiance, originally written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy, a Baptist minister and Christian socialist, suggests that the current embracing of socialist values could have had earlier sources than we originally thought. Interestingly, the original arm position, with the arms …
I Desire Mercy and Not Sacrifice
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaClyde Finklea, reflecting upon the biblical narratives where David and his men illegally consumed the showbread reserved for the priests (I Samuel 21:1-6) and Jesus' conversation with the Pharisees where He used this incident to justify His disciples' picking grain on the Sabbath (Matthew 12:1-8), contends that Jesus, the Lord …
Christ as Righteous Judge
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughBoaz is a type of Jesus Christ. Boaz' actions toward Ruth give us insight into the character of our Savior, particularly in His office of Judge.
Manifesting Kindness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMartin Collins, reflecting upon the pervasive reluctance of many to perform acts of kindness (largely resulting from the cynicism of our society) recommends that we, as called-out firstfruits, desperately need to internalize the godly traits (or fruits of God's Holy Spirit) of kindness, mercy, compassion, and tenderness …
The Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughKindness goes hand-in-hand with love. It is an active expression of love toward God and fellow man, produced through the power of God's Spirit.
Themes of Ruth (Part Four): Kindness and Faith
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, acknowledging that Americans have a reputation for kindness warns that we are likely more and more to see a dark underside of America, where hardness of heart supplants kindness. In this milieu, chesed (covenant loyalty and mercy, or showing loving kindness to the most aggravating sinner) cannot exist. David …
Living By Faith and God's Grace
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod gives grace from start to finish in a person's relationship with Him. It cannot be limited merely to justification and His forgiveness of our sins.
The Beatitudes, Part 5: Blessed Are the Merciful
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughMercy is a virtue that has gone out of vogue, though it is sometimes admired. Jesus, however, places it among the most vital His followers should possess.
Defining Grace
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe entire life of Christ was a manifestation of God's grace, revealing the nature of God by means of a life lived to give us an example to follow.
Pentecost and the Book of Ruth
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAlthough many lessons of the book of Ruth allude to Old Covenant teachings, Ruth prefigures New Covenant principles such as mercy, Christ's care, and acceptance.
Where God Places His Name (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause we would die from exposure to God's glory, the name of God, reflecting His characteristics, is the only way we can approach God.
Lamentations (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, asking why Christians should ruminate about sorrow and grief instead of focusing on happy thoughts, reminds us that death and suffering are staple features of the human condition and that we need to learn how to handle grief and loss, thereby becoming a witness for those who do not yet know the truth. Isaiah …
The Glory of God (Part 2): In Christ
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen we (following Jesus' example) display the way of God in our lives, bearing His name, and keeping His commandments, God's glory radiates in our lives.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Goodness
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGoodness is a nebulous concept, used to describe everything from a tasty snack to God's sublime character. But God's character defines what goodness is.
Christ's Female Ancestors
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughLuke records four female ancestors of Christ: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba. Three out of the four were Gentiles and 3/4 also had glaring sexual problems
Lamentations (Part 5; 1989)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJohn Ritenbaugh investigates the second chapter of Lamentations, which reflects the emotional state of a stunned observer, realizing that God had wreaked havoc and destruction upon His chosen people, making them the focus of scorn and ridicule of all of their enemies. Chapter three focuses on the abject terror and hopelessness …
Themes of Ruth (Part Three): Redemption
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus redeemed us with His shed blood from the penalty of our sins, but He also works as our High Priest, continually redeeming us until we are resurrected.
Living by Faith: God's Grace (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGrace implies empowerment for growth. It is the single most important aspect of our salvation, and His giving of it is completely unmerited on our part.
Being a Christian
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaMicah provides a formula for being a Christian: 1.) Doing justly, 2.) Exercising mercy and 3.) Walking humbly. These demand total commitment, not a pretense.
Themes of Ruth (Part One): Naomi
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughNaomi's attractive personality, selflessness, godly conviction and common sense characterize her relationship with her Gentile daughters-in-law.
