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The Meaning of the Offering
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The New Covenant sacrifices are far more demanding than the Old Covenant sacrifices. But there are poignant lessons to be learned from animal sacrifices.
Cain's Assumption (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn the account of Cain and Abel, it is recorded that Cain, a tiller of the ground, brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the LORD. Abel, a keeper of sheep, brought of the firstborn of his flock and their fat. The LORD respected Abel and his offering, but He did not respect Cain and his offering. This rejection caused Cain to become very angry, and his countenance fell. The LORD questioned Cain, asking why he was angry and why his countenance had fallen, advising that if he did well, he would be accepted, but if not, sin lay at the door, desiring him, though he should rule over it. Despite this, Cain later rose up against Abel in the field and killed him. It is suggested that this event occurred at an appointed time, possibly a Sabbath or holy day, which might have heightened the importance of an acceptable sacrifice. The account implies that there was a standard for offerings, as Abel's sacrifice was deemed more acceptable, indicating he followed specific instructions from God. Cain, aware of what was required, chose to disregard these instructions for reasons not fully disclosed. This disobedience led to the rejection of his offering, contributing to his distress and violent reaction.
Cain's Assumption (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIs it possible Cain saw himself as the great protagonist, the conqueror of Satan—even the Savior of the world? Did Cain literally have a "Messiah complex"?
Offerings (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering (grain offering) represents fulfilling our duty to our neighbor. he materials used in the meal offering symbolize Jesus' perfect character.
A Warning from Jude (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe stories of Cain, Balaam, and Korah help us to understand Jude's urgent warning to the church for all time. These men's ways are continually repeated.
Being a True Sweet Savor to God
Sermonette by Bill OnisickThe renewing of our minds is a daily sacrifice in which carnality is continuously put to death, replaced by God's Spirit, yielding an aroma desired by God.
Abel Glorified God!
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsAbel offered his sacrifice in obedience to God's instructions. We must worship Him in a spirit of truth, bringing about a profound change in heart.
An Acceptable Sacrifice
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughAbel was totally consumed, becoming the first martyr for faith. Likewise, when we are called to God, we can expect to be used until we are consumed.
First Things First (Part Two): The Right Sacrifice
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeCain represents religion and worship on a person's own terms, according to his own priorities, rather than according to God's instruction.
Keep It Clean
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God's Word describes the ritual harlot and the sodomite as vile dogs and the basest of people. The wages of sexual immorality would defile any offering.
Fellowship and Fellowshipping Are Very Important to God
Sermonette by Gary GarrettIf we lack love for our brethren who live in the presence of God, we are emulating Cain. It is God's desire that we stay in the fellowship.
Do Little Things Not Count?
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThose who ignore the clear biblical instructions for the wavesheaf offering with its unambiguous prohibitions risk the displeasure and judgment of God.
Tithing
Sermon by John O. ReidThis comprehensive overview of tithing explores the attitudes we should have toward tithing, the purposes of the tithe, and the benefits of tithing.
Faith, Hope, and the Worship of God (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughUsing assumptions, some have concocted some nine conflicting calendars. The preservation of the oracles has not been entrusted to the church but to the Jews.