Filter by Categories

Psalm 133
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughTrue unity comes from God via His Holy Spirit and requires humbly submitting to God's terms rather than our own agendas.
Psalm 133 (1998)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPsalm 133 stands as a powerful expression of the beauty and importance of unity among brethren. How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity, as the first verse declares, setting a tone of hope and aspiration for harmony among God's people. This unity is not merely a suggestion but a profound goal, reflecting what is proper, fitting, and attractive in God's sight. It brings great pleasure and benefits to those who are joined together, emphasizing the rightness and loveliness of such togetherness. The psalm, one of the fifteen Songs of Ascents, holds a significant place near the end of this series, suggesting that unity is a final hurdle before the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan. Verses 2 and 3 vividly illustrate this unity through the metaphors of oil and dew. The oil, running down upon Aaron's head, beard, and garments, symbolizes a proper and pleasant anointing, evoking a sweet aroma reserved for the high priest's consecration. This imagery portrays unity as something holy and set apart, descending from a higher place to cover the entire body. Similarly, the dew descending from Hermon to the mountains of Zion represents a refreshing and gentle covering, illustrating unity as a gift that spans from the highest to the lowest, encompassing all within the church. Furthermore, Psalm 133 concludes with the declaration that God commands His blessing of eternal life in Zion, underscoring that unity is vital to this divine promise. Unity is presented as a command from God, requiring a response from His people to work toward it, to promote and sustain it. Without this effort, unity cannot be achieved, even with the abundant outpouring of God's Spirit. Thus, the psalm calls for a collective striving toward harmony, reflecting the deep yearning for brethren to dwell together as one, in alignment with God's will.
Psalms: Book Five (Part Two): Psalms of Ascents
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMore space is devoted to the reign of Hezekiah than any other king, in part because of his example of repentance after the news of his impending death.
Unity (2006)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike the symphony orchestra, only as an instrumentalist submits to the leader, working with the other members of the ensemble, can unity be accomplished.
Unity and Godly Diversity in One Body
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerTo take sides in any type of national struggle is to battle on behalf of mankind's wrong-headed, godless attempts to avoid the consequences of sin.
Carefully Tending and Keeping God's Extraordinary Blessings
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod's Sabbaths are inestimable blessings which should not be squandered; we must tend and keep these blessings, avoiding the careless use of hallowed time.
Purpose-Driven Churches (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughDespite the growing popularity of Purpose-Driven churches, national immorality is still increasing. The 'emerging church' grows numerically by suppressing truth.