Filter by Categories
Joseph's Extraordinary Example
Sermon by Kim MyersJoseph, son of Jacob, emerged from a family rife with discord and favoritism, yet his life unfolded with profound purpose in Egypt. Loved and favored by his father, Jacob, Joseph received the distinctive coat of many colors, a symbol of his special status among his siblings. However, this favor incited hatred from his brothers, who, driven by envy over his dreams and their father's preference, plotted to kill him. Instead, they cast him into a pit and later sold him into slavery for profit, stripping him of his tunic in the process. In Egypt, Joseph's journey continued through trials as he was forced into servitude, having no choice in his fate. Despite these hardships, he served others, including the chief butler and baker, tending to their needs during his imprisonment. His resilience and integrity eventually elevated him to a position second only to Pharaoh, making him a powerful figure in the most dominant nation of the region. In this role, Joseph provided physical salvation from starvation, not only for his own family but also for the Egyptians and many others in the surrounding areas. When his brothers, who failed to recognize him, came to Egypt seeking food, Joseph harbored no grudge against them for their past actions. Instead of seeking revenge for being thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, and enduring imprisonment, he forgave them. He secured for his family the fertile land of Goshen in the Nile delta, where they prospered and grew in number. Joseph's ability to see God's hand in his life prevented him from being offended by the severe trials he faced, allowing him to extend forgiveness and provision to those who had wronged him.
Joseph: A Saga of Excellence (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJacob's son Joseph receives the least criticism and the most praise, a sterling record of character and human accomplishment surpassed only by Jesus Christ.
Joseph: A Saga of Excellence (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJoseph's example proves that even the most difficult temptation can be resisted and overcome, though this skill must be developed incrementally.
Joseph: A Saga of Excellence (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEven allowing for mankind's free moral agency and propensity to stumble, God still works out His purpose, even when people do not know it is for their good.
Ephraim and Manasseh: Half-Egyptians?
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughWith God, racial identity and racial 'purity' are not the top priority. If we focus upon spiritual Israel rather than the race, this issue should not matter.
What Do You Do in the Dark?
Article by Mike FordCharacter has been defined as what you are when no one else can see you. The story of Joseph in Potiphar's house teaches us lessons about character.
The Providence of God (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEven when we exercise free moral agency, God engineers circumstances and outcomes so that we are virtually forced to make the right decision.
The Providence of God (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe have to exercise faith, realizing the timing will be right for us, enabling us to accept His provisions and decisions for us without fear or anxiety.
The Sovereignty of God: Part Four
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod not only rules in heaven, but He is also sovereign on earth! He is not an absentee landlord, but One who is actively involved in administering His creation.
Sovereignty, Election, and Grace (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEven though we have the free moral agency to run counter to God's purposes, we court disaster if we presumptuously plan against these purposes.
The Need for Forgiveness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause it is more blessed to give than to receive, the things we desire for ourselves we should be willing to give to others, including forgiveness.
Enduring to the End of What?
Sermonette by Craig SablichEvery previous event and decision in our lives has shaped our resultant character, including the bad decisions that led us down a wrong path.
God's Creation and Our Works
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike Joseph, we need to realize that God—not ourselves—is the Creator, engineering events that form us into what He wants us to become.
Stressed Out
Sermonette by Ryan McClureMoses, Job, and Elijah all suffered debilitating stress. Jesus endured overwhelming stress, sweating blood, but trusting His Father's sovereign purpose.
The Other Great Tribulation
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles WhitakerWe have anticipated the coming of the end-time Great Tribulation. However, there was a historical great tribulation, similar to what has happened in the U.S.
What if You Are Betrayed?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsBetrayal is triggered by a root of bitterness resulting from envy, but turning into hatred, a shoot of bitterness manifesting a spirit of murder.
God's Promises Are Sure!
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe story of Joseph offers lessons and encouragement regarding God's dealings with men during the time of the Feast of Trumpets.
Acts (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughStephen points out that historically, God has dealt with His people without land or temple, but instead through deliverers, initially rejected by their own.
Responding to Catastrophe
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHow are we going to react when the next disaster strikes our area? Are we going to gripe and complain? Are we going to sit and wait for somebody to help us?