Filter by Categories
The Man Like a Tree
Sermonette by Bill CherryPsalm 1:1 identifies the blessed man by contrast with the ungodly, describing him as one who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, stand in the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of the scornful. This description points to a man who has carefully examined the way society operates under human ideas, customs, and fashions, and has consciously rejected them because they are not godly. The term "ungodly" here does not necessarily mean wicked or sinful in an outward sense; rather, it describes people who simply have no thought of God in their way of life. Their conduct may not appear openly evil, yet it lacks any connection to God's mind and purpose. The blessed man recognizes this and refuses to associate with it, much like a tree that will not send its roots into polluted water. Instead, he deliberately separates himself from the counsel of the ungodly in order to remain rooted in something pure and life-giving. This rejection of ungodliness is directly tied to the image of the tree planted by rivers of water, drawn from both Psalm 1 and Jeremiah 17. The man who avoids the path of the ungodly instead delights in the law of the Lord, meditating on it continually. This "law" represents not merely the written Word but the entire way of life God teaches—one built on love, service, wisdom, and right human relationships. Because he delights in this way of life, he is compared to a tree planted by rivers of water, bearing fruit in its season, with leaves that do not wither, and prospering in all that he does. The connection between rejecting ungodliness and receiving divine nourishment is central to understanding the tree analogy. Just as trees require water to remain green, fruitful, and resistant to drought, the man who avoids the counsel of the ungodly and instead roots himself in God's instruction receives spiritual sustenance that allows him to flourish regardless of difficult circumstances. This is illustrated through the natural example of trees needing water to survive and thrive, as well as through a personal account of nearly wilted tomato plants revived by soaking them in water—demonstrating how vital nourishment restores life and vitality. Ultimately, the theme of avoiding ungodliness serves as the foundation for the broader message: that believers have full access to God's Word and way of life, much like a tree planted beside abundant water. By deliberately turning away from the ungodly patterns of the world and instead drawing deeply from God's instruction, a person can grow, remain fruitful, and receive the promise that whatever he does shall prosper.
Where is the Promise of His Coming?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsDoubting that Christ will return has always been problematic for the faithful weak as well as a tool of the heretics denying the second coming of Christ.
Psalms: Book One (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause Jesus is God's Son, we can avoid the rod of His anger by paying respect with worshipful awe. We must know both His instruction and Him personally.
Psalms: Book One (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Hebrew word used to mark appointed times connotes a pilgrimage. The Hebrew year contained five steps or seasons, corresponding to God's holy times.
John 3:16: Does God Really Love the World?
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod does not love everybody equally. Nowhere does He tell us to prefer the ungodly world. Though He tells us to love our enemies, but not to be affectionate.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Sixteen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRighteousness consists of applying the Law's letter and/or intent. Sin constitutes a failure of living up to the standards of what God defines as right.
The Great Flood (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAs much as the flood was a natural occurrence, it was also a supernatural occurrence, in which a loving God brought a hopelessly wicked world to an end.
Jude
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe book of Jude, a scathing indictment against false teachers, may be the most neglected book in the New Testament. False teachers twist grace into license.
The Christian Walk (Part Three): In Wisdom
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod wants us to take our salvation seriously, walking in love, light, and wisdom, attaining the know-how to work out our own salvation, redeeming the time.
The Fruit of Justification
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe subject of justification confuses a great many people. In fact, much of nominal Christianity, even theologians, do not understand the Bible's teaching on it.