Filter by Categories
Dogs and Sheep
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the context of John 10, tending sheep was a common practice in Palestine during Jesus' time, facilitated by the natural geography of the Judean Hills and the Hills of Ephraim, which provided ideal hilly pasturelands. Raising sheep was a significant industry, and the people listening to Jesus were familiar with the shepherding life, even if they did not grasp the deeper spiritual meaning of His words. Sheep often become cast down, a term used by shepherds to describe a state of dejection or depression, where they lie down and cannot or will not get up, risking death unless the shepherd intervenes to identify and correct the problem, whether it be inadequate water, feed, or disease. In biblical times, dogs were used to tend or guard sheep, though they were considered contemptible, often a task for the lowest of people, reflecting the humble nature of the work. This historical practice of sheep tending illustrates the vital role of care and vigilance in ensuring the well-being of the flock under the guidance of the shepherd.
Breakfast by the Sea (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeJesus twice asks Peter if he has agape love, and both times Peter can only respond that he has tremendous personal affection — he was lacking agape love.
Psalm 23:3
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamCasting takes place when a sheep falls over and its weight causes it to get stuck on its back until the shepherd intervenes.
Psalm 23:2
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamThe shepherd has a critical role in providing conditions for sheep to rest, including freedom from fear, pests, hunger, and social friction within the flock.
The Post-Resurrection Last Words of Christ (Part Three)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod has called individuals with different temperaments, giving them a variety of spiritual gifts to work interdependently within Christ's Body.
Psalm 23
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamBoth David and his descendant, Jesus Christ, demonstrated their dedication in protecting the sheep, even at great personal risk, unlike hirelings, then and now.
Who Is Doing the Work of God?
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWe should concentrate on reversing the church's serious spiritual decline before we presume to go to the world.
John (Part Sixteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe closer we get to God, the more likely we will have persecution, but also the greater and more real He becomes and the more likely we will serve Him correctly.
Man's Greatest Challenge (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe minister's main task should consist of exhorting on spiritual matters rather than worldly ones, rejecting the profane in favor of the spiritual.
Without Me, Nothing! (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe first and last words of Jesus Christ in the book of John are to 'follow Me,' directed at His disciples then and now.
You Are My Friends!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhile it is common on Facebook to defriend/unfriend, Christ's love for His people is a friending with the condition that godly fruit is produced.
Post-Resurrection Lessons
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughOn the Road to Emmaus, some of Christ's followers were agitated, confused, and in turmoil, being unable to put the scriptures and the physical facts together.
Loving Christ and Revelation 2:1-7
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThere is a direct relationship between loving Christ and doing the right works. God's love for us places us under a compelling obligation to reciprocate.
Preparing the Bride
Booklet by John W. RitenbaughA Statement of Purpose and beliefs of the Church of the Great God.
Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Three): Hope Demonstrated
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's resolute intent to sacrifice Isaac displayed his unreserved devotion to God's purpose for him. We must display the same kind of tenacity.
Matthew (Part Eleven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughLife consists of a series of choices, often a dilemma of a pleasurable choice on one hand and a difficult choice (that produces more growth) on the other.