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Moses, Servant of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMoses, known as the servant of the Lord, stands as a remarkable figure whose life exemplifies submission and service to God. Frequently titled as God's servant, more than any other person, the term reflects his deep relationship with the Lord, indicating one who labors in submission through the conduct of his life. Though often seen as a position of low degree, serving the Lord is a place of great honor, and Moses embodies this honor through his extraordinary dedication. From the outset of his life, Moses displayed signs of being an exceptional leader across various capacities. His experiences offer valuable lessons, showcasing diverse types of leadership—submissive, realistic, constant, sacrificial, vulnerable, courageous, and bold. In every area, he utilized these qualities as a servant of God, standing out among other great biblical leaders, nearly in a class of his own due to the breadth and difficulty of his responsibilities. Humanly, Moses was the founder of a new nation of recalcitrant slave people, serving as prime minister, lead legislator, and chief judge, all while maintaining an unusually virtuous character. Described by God as very humble, he was aware of his flaws, which likely contributed to his humility and reliance on the Lord for assistance. He did not impose himself on others but served quietly and confidently with all his heart in whatever capacity God assigned. God enabled Moses in remarkable ways, granting him vigor even in old age to carry out his work. Despite initial doubts about his ability to speak, as seen when called from the burning bush, God provided the means for him to overcome this challenge, and soon Moses spoke directly to those who needed to hear. His life, preserved from infancy through divine intervention, was shaped by a spiritually stable family, a princely education in Egypt, and humbling experiences as a shepherd, all preparing him for leadership of a stubborn people. Moses' faithfulness in all circumstances, as a servant in the house of God, sets a powerful example. Though not perfect, as evidenced by his failure to enter the Promised Land due to a moment of temper, he remained a man of outstanding character. God's forgiveness was evident, and by allowing Moses to see the land, He assured him of a place in His kingdom, signifying a formal transfer of spiritual inheritance. Thus, Moses, the faithful servant, carried out his responsibilities with unwavering dedication, demonstrating that we too can be faithful within the gifts and responsibilities given to us by the Lord.
Conviction and Moses
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMoses, the servant of God, stands as a profound example of faithfulness and conviction in his relationship with God. He is recognized as one of the finest personalities in human history, with more written about him in the Bible than anyone else except Christ. His greatness is evident in the high tribute paid to him as faithful in all of God's house, a distinction that set him apart as without peer among the holy. God Himself defended Moses, declaring there was no one like him, speaking to him personally rather than through visions or dreams, and entrusting him with all of His estate, meaning His household and family. Moses' faithfulness allowed him to interpret God's will to Israel with full authority, a stark contrast to the unfaithfulness of the people he led. His intimate relationship with God placed him in a class by himself, and even the Messiah is compared to Moses, highlighting the immense praise bestowed upon him. As a steward of God's house, Moses exemplified the qualities of reliability, dependability, trustworthiness, and responsibility, carrying out his obligations with humility despite his great authority. He thought of himself as nothing more than a lowly servant, akin to a galley slave, in his service to God. Born into a time of oppression and hardship as part of an alien race in Egypt, Moses faced immense challenges from the start. His people were forced into labor, their male children ordered to be destroyed at birth, and many had forgotten God, adopting the pagan worship of Egypt. Yet, Moses was born into a family of faith, with parents Amram and Jochebed who risked their lives to save him, demonstrating unwavering conviction. Their faith laid the foundation for Moses during his formative years, guiding him down the right path. Raised in Pharaoh's palace, Moses received the best education and privileges Egypt could offer, becoming mighty in words and deeds as a statesman and soldier. Despite this, he never lost connection with his true family and the history of Israel. At the age of forty, in the prime of his manhood, Moses made the extraordinary choice to forsake the treasures and pleasures of Egypt, turning away from wealth, honor, and comfort to identify with his oppressed people. This decision, made in full maturity of his powers, reflected his deep conviction and faith in God's promise to deliver Israel in the fourth generation. Moses' faith was the foundation of his convictions, driving him to act with deliberate resolve despite scorn and pressure from his peers and Egyptian family. He believed fervently that God would raise up a deliverer from Israel and that a destiny awaited the chosen people far greater than the treasures of Egypt. His conviction, built through a long process of yielding to God's discipline, patience, and correction, enabled him to endure and become faithful, showing that such faith and conviction are within reach for all who are willing to follow God's way.
Israel's Missing Characteristics of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Among the vast history of humanity's relationship with God, Moses stands as a remarkable figure, handpicked by God to navigate a life of profound contrasts. From his early years in an Egyptian royal family, rescued from the Nile River, to a humble shepherd in exile after killing an Egyptian, and finally to a leader called by God at the burning bush to free the enslaved Israelites, Moses experienced a journey from bottom to top and back again. This journey shaped him into one of the humblest of all humans, a characteristic vital for a deep relationship with God. Moses faithfully waited on God, demonstrating submission and belief in Him. He did not push God for decisions, having gained wisdom from his varied life experiences, which he applied in his dealings with both God and the Israelites. Though he once lost his temper and struck the rock, an act that brought him trouble, Moses generally exemplified meekness, which does not equate to weakness but to a guided strength in leadership. His humility and patience in waiting on God were qualities God appreciated, as Moses extended these in his interactions with the Israelites. God Himself commended Moses, declaring him faithful in all His house, a powerful refutation of accusations against him by Miriam and Aaron. This faithfulness meant unwavering loyalty in all the responsibilities God entrusted to him, whether in Egypt or the wilderness. Moses acted on his faith personally, not rushing things but living out his belief in God through consistent actions. His leadership presented a reflection of God before the Israelites, and the wisdom he gained is preserved in the Word of God for guidance in glorifying Him. Moses, respected even in heaven, finished writing Deuteronomy and was buried by an archangel, a distinction fought for against demonic forces, underscoring his esteemed reputation. His life, marked by continuous faith and action, sets a standard of faithfulness in applying God's Word, a quality God seeks in His relationship with humanity.
Conviction, Moses, and Us
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike Moses, we have to develop conviction, a product of a relationship of God, established by being faithful day by day in the little things of life.
God Has Faith in You
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidIt can be encouraging to us that our patriarchs and the prophets had serious doubts, but God overrode all their fears in accomplishing His purpose.
The Household of God and Truth
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsTo destroy the concept of home is to destroy the nation or church. The centrality of the family or household is the heart of the church and the nation.
Two Arks of Salvation
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingIn both the basket carrying Moses and the ark carrying Noah's family for over a year, God was in control, and guided both arks to safety.
Made His Wonderful Work to be Remembered (Part One)
Sermon by Mark SchindlerWe must remember that God is working not only in the world, but in our personal lives as well, training us to lead, act, and believe with conviction.
No One Else Matters (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAll God's shepherds are mortal men, guilty of sin, including Moses. Despite that, God backed them up because they faithfully followed His leadership.
The Sixth Century Axial Period (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)A prophet is one who carries a message from another. A true prophet's message will derive from existing Scripture, even if he is breaking new, unexplored ground.
Life Is Service (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThough the American mindset does not feel inclined to serve, outgoing service to others yields the maximum joy and fulfillment one can possibly attain.
Matthew (Part Ten)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughEntering the Kingdom requires choosing the narrow, difficult path of sacrifice, service, and humility over the easy, broad path of selfishness.