Filter by Categories
Ecclesiastes and Wisdom
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughWisdom, as emphasized repeatedly by God, is a central theme in guiding life's choices. Living by faith and wisdom must be inseparable for success in Christian living, as success hinges on the decisions we make. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, we must strive to attain it, alongside understanding, for they are closely linked and essential. As personified in Proverbs, wisdom and understanding together preserve and honor those who embrace them, placing an ornament of grace and a crown of glory upon them. God instructs us to seek wisdom with diligence, as one would search for hidden treasures, promising that such pursuit leads to understanding the fear of the Lord and finding the knowledge of God. This pursuit requires hard work and active participation with God, involving time-consuming effort, careful observation, prayer, and meditation. The process to gain wisdom includes gathering knowledge through concentrated effort, meditating and seeking counsel, and applying it practically in life. The Hebrew term "chakma," used for wisdom, signifies skill, particularly skill in living according to God's Word. This skill does not appear miraculously but requires determined practice, much like any other discipline. God filled artisans with the spirit of wisdom to create sacred garments, demonstrating that wisdom encompasses technical skills and abilities applied in specific contexts. Another term, "sakal," suggests acting circumspectly and prudently, indicating how one uses this skill in dealing with life's events. Wisdom, therefore, is about making the right choices at the right time for the right reasons, ensuring success in life through skillful living.
What the Holy Spirit Does (2005)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Spirit of Wisdom, as revealed through God's Word, is a vital aspect of the Holy Spirit's work in individuals, setting them apart with exceptional qualities for divine purposes. In Genesis 41:37-39, Pharaoh recognized the Spirit of God in Joseph, attributing his unparalleled discernment and wisdom to this divine presence, enabling him to interpret obscure dreams and make sound judgments. Similarly, in Isaiah 11:1-2, the Spirit of the Lord resting upon Jesus Christ is described as the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, equipping Him with counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord, demonstrating these qualities throughout His life. In Exodus 31:1-5, Bezaleel was filled with the Spirit of God in wisdom, understanding, and knowledge, enhancing his natural talents in workmanship to craft the Tabernacle with excellence, showing that the Holy Spirit elevates abilities for God's work. Additionally, in Deuteronomy 34:9, Joshua was full of the spirit of wisdom through the laying on of Moses' hands, empowering him to lead Israel as a prophet and judge. These examples illustrate that the Spirit of Wisdom, as part of the Holy Spirit, imparts deep understanding, sound judgment, and the ability to act prudently, distinguishing those who possess it for significant roles in fulfilling God's will.
What the Holy Spirit Does
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Spirit of Wisdom, as revealed through various examples in Scripture, is a vital aspect of the Holy Spirit's work in individuals, setting them apart and equipping them for God's purposes. In Genesis 41:37-39, Pharaoh recognized the Spirit of God in Joseph, noting His discernment and wisdom, which enabled Joseph to interpret dreams and provide sound advice, distinguishing him from others with superior understanding and prudent action. Isaiah 11:1-2 further describes the Spirit of the Lord resting upon the prophesied Messiah, identified as the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, along with counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord, producing these qualities in the wisest and most God-fearing person to ever live, Jesus Christ. In Exodus 31:1-5, Bezalel was filled with the Spirit of God, endowing him with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and skills in craftsmanship to build the Tabernacle, demonstrating that the Holy Spirit provides both character traits and practical abilities for God's work. Similarly, in Deuteronomy 34:9, Joshua, son of Nun, was full of the spirit of wisdom after Moses laid hands on him, enabling him to lead Israel as they heeded him and followed the Lord's commands, showing the Spirit's role in setting apart individuals for leadership and special purposes. These accounts illustrate that the Spirit of Wisdom, as part of the Holy Spirit, imparts deep understanding, sound judgment, and the ability to make godly decisions, equipping individuals to fulfill the specific tasks God assigns, whether through intellectual insight, practical skills, or authoritative leadership.
Biblical Wisdom
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhile Greek culture rendered wisdom mostly mental and contemplative, it is not truly biblical wisdom unless it follows through with a specific behavior.
Powerful Effects of the Holy Spirit
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe are intrigued by supernatural power, and many seek to display it. Yet the Scriptures show the activity of the Holy Spirit in ways that are commonly missed.
Bezaleel of the House of Judah
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingGod augmented Bezaleel's natural abilities, not only in physical craftsmanship, but also in the soft skills of management, patience, and longsuffering.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Holy Spirit is never venerated as a separate being. Our hope is the indwelling of Christ, used interchangeably with 'Spirit of God' and 'Spirit of Truth.'
The Pattern of Creation
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mike FordGod has a pattern that we can use for planet formation, a skill He will teach us after we assume a glorified spirit body following our resurrection.
A Survey of God's Gifts to Us
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe apostle Paul inventories spiritual gifts that God has given for the edification of the church, including ministry of the word and practical service.
Numbering Our Days
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must allow God to show us how to carefully number our days in order to gain a heart of wisdom and develop a godly perspective upon our remaining time.