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Parables of Luke 15 (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe three illustrations in Luke 15 justify Christ's conduct in receiving sinners, and show that to rejoice over their return is good and proper.
The Role of the Outcasts (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David F. MaasWhy does God carve out a special role for rejects, off-scourings, and castaways? Are there characteristics of outcasts and 'undesirables' that we should copy?
Living By Faith: Humility
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Paradoxically, God stoops to us when we humble ourselves. Humility produces honor from God; if we humble ourselves, He will hear us.
The Beatitudes, Part Two: Poor in Spirit
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWhat is it to be poor in spirit? This attribute is foundational to Christian living. Those who are truly poor in spirit are on the road to true spiritual riches.
The Beatitudes, Part Three: Mourning
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughBlessedness and mourning seem contradictory, but obviously Jesus saw spiritual benefits to sorrow. True, godly mourning gets high marks from God.
What True Repentance Is
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaThe message admonishes every member of God's church that we should constantly be in a continuous state of repentance, but that signs of the end should get us urgently in that state. Being a literal descendant of Abraham or a part of God's church and doing basic rituals is not enough to produce those fruits. Repentance doesn't just involve the negative aspect of removing sin and bad actions but turning towards righteousness and willful good actions. Presenting a three-step way of looking at repentance demonstrated by the parable of the Prodigal son (Luke 15:11-18), we must realize that it involves first changing our mind, second changing our heart, and then changing our will. Change of mind involves coming back to a sane state of thought through the holy spirit or an event that shakes us back on the way. Change of heart is importantly realizing through sorrow that our primary offense was against God and then others and ourselves. Change of will means demonstrating fruits of repentance through action and showing fruits of repentance (carefulness, indignation, and zeal) as shown in 2 Corinthians 7:11. As we repent and ask forgiveness ourselves, we must also forgive others, so we spread God's attributes of mercy in the church and world.
Poor in Spirit (1997)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBeing poor in spirit is a foundational spiritual state for qualifying for God's Kingdom. Poor in spirit describes being acutely aware of one's dependency.
The Elder Brother
'Prophecy Watch' by Ted E. BowlingIn the Prodigal Son, most people dwell on the relationship between the prodigal and his father. However, the elder brother has much to teach us as well.
Privileges of the Family of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIt is impossible to be a Christian without being a child of God. When we are in God's family, we have distinct privileges.
Lost and Found: The Power of Apologies and Forgiveness
Sermonette by Jared M. EllisForgiving, even when there is no apology, reflects the Father and Jesus Christ. The prodigal son is a story of the deep love we should have towards each other.
Firstfruits and the Master Potter
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaThe Potter and Clay analogy provides instructions for understanding character-building tests and trials in the life-long sanctification process.
Who Then Is In The Kingdom Of Heaven?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIn Matthew 18, some disciples pondered who would be greatest in the Kingdom. However, ambition, arrogance, and pride will keep one from even being there.
The Christian Fight (Part Five)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe faithful life and work of Noah illustrates that after justification, walking by faith with God is a practical responsibility.