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Our Identity
Sermonette by Hunter D. SwansonMaintaining our sight on our gifted identity and constantly asking for God's help will keep us on track to become better representatives to the world.
Identity as Sovereign
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn the spreading wave of secular humanism across Western civilization, the concept of personal Identity has emerged as the ultimate ideal, reigning as the new sovereign with absolute authority. This sovereign Identity often overrides achievement and aptitude, prioritizing traits like skin color, nation of origin, gender, or sexual orientation. The notion of oppression tied to Identity Groups suggests they deserve special treatment due to historical or perceived injustices, fostering a culture where victimhood is glorified and maintained for its benefits. This deification of Identity is starkly evident in the current gender debates, where self-prescribed identities demand acceptance, equating disagreement with a denial of humanity. The identity-as-truth perspective insists on inclusiveness, rejecting any opposition as an attack on their right to be who they truly are, rendering logic and evidence irrelevant. Disagreement is perceived as a personal assault, denying the individual's self-perception. This elevation of Identity to unassailable sovereignty results in a world of little sovereigns, each unaccountable and beyond reproach, leading to chaos and confusion reminiscent of ancient Israel during the time of the Judges, where everyone did what was right in their own eyes. In contrast, as Christians, our identity holds great importance but is not sovereign. Identified by God as His children, a new creation, sanctified, and the firstfruits of His spiritual harvest, we bear tremendous obligations. These identities come with expectations to resemble our Father in conduct, produce fruit that glorifies Him, finish the course, and prepare to teach and govern in His Kingdom. While the secular world urges categorization by scars and oppressions, insisting on living as unaccountable gods, the true Sovereign sees beyond our scars to what He is creating in us, calling us to submit to Him, to authority, and to one another, focusing on giving rather than receiving.
Identity Crisis
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityThe media has succeeded in promoting homosexual, transgender, trans-human, and trans-species movements, encouraging youth to question their gender identity.
For Love of Family
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloGod's saints, as both kings and priests, will both teach God's law as well as maintain civic governmental functions, needing to exercise patience.
Where Do You Belong?
Commentary by Mark SchindlerThe penchant to seek preferred area codes is like the party spirit in Corinth, in which cliques began to champion leaders and look down on other factions.
Our Heavenly Citizenship
'Ready Answer' by Austin Del CastilloMembers of the church must focus on their identity in Christ and producing spiritual fruit even during such tumultuous times, not governments of men.
The Old Stories
Sermonette byWe must guard against forces that would systematically undermine the faith once delivered to the saints, and learn not to denigrate the stories passed down.
Peace, Peace (Part Two): Christ's Peace
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughTrue peace is a deep, holistic state of well-being, spiritual harmony, and right relationship with God rather than just outward tranquility.
Jesus in the Feasts (Part Five): Tabernacles
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe should consider the temporary dwellings as a foreshadowing of Christ as our ultimate Tabernacle—the divine presence with and within His people
Are You Strong in the Lord?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsHardship is not removed from our spiritual trek, but God strengthens us to endure and overcome through our afflictions. Suffering is a training ground.
The World (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur worldview must be shaped by a fear of God, a love for His people, and a hatred for the world's practices that destroy our relationship with God.
The Christian Paradox (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSalvation is not merely self-identifying oneself as a saint, but it involves rigorously working with God in an arduous process of transformation.
The Peacemakers
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen people are not in a right relationship with God, peace is impossible. Sin (the breaking of the law or covenant) automatically breaks the peace.
What's In a Name?
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityFar from being accidental, our given names are sacred threads in God's intricate design, worthy of joy, reflection, and reverence.
Birds of a Feather
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityThe early church demonstrated camaraderie in Acts 2. We are known by our love for one another and need to see ourselves as members of God's team.
Letting Go (Part One)
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityFearing the end of something we thoroughly know and have become emotionally attached to may be every bit as terrifying as facing the unknown.
Individualism and Unity
CGG WeeklyRather than establishing the differences we possess, God requires individuals to strengthen and grow in our similarities that He establishes as desirable.
Our Merciful and Faithful Provider
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The experiences of ancient Israel, bad and good, guide us in our spiritual pilgrimage to our Promised Land. The book of Deuteronomy is a strong foundation.
Clash of Cultures
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughEurope has seen millions of migrants, mostly Muslims, stream into their nations to the point that it has become a primary topic politically.