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The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Stilling a Storm
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus calms a sudden storm on the Sea of Galilee after a draining day of teaching, testing, and interruptions. Exhausted, He sleeps peacefully in the disciples' boat, resting in complete trust in His Father's care and in His own God-given power over wind and sea. The terrified disciples cry out for rescue, and He rebukes them for fearfulness and little faith. They had not lost all confidence in Him, since they called on Him and knew He could calm the storm. But they failed to grasp that whether He was asleep or awake, He was still the Son of God, and the Father who shut in the sea (Job 38:8, 11) would not let His faithful Son drown. Fear paralyzes faith. Jesus then speaks, and the wind ceases in a great calm. He treats the storm as a rebellious force, commanding it with a word that means "be muzzled." This shows the Creator's order and peace over nature's disorder, and Satan, the author of confusion, stands behind such physical evils that Jesus came to destroy (Psalm 89:9). The disciples are awed less by His power than by His faithfulness and peace, and they respond with reverence and godly fear. The miracle shows what God's Spirit can do through a faithful man, and Jesus' promise in Mark 11:23-24 stands for believers who ask according to God's will (I John 5:14-15).
Where Is Your Faith?
Sermonette by Hunter D. SwansonEmotions, such as joy or anger, are tools to be acknowledged and processed, not suppressed. By viewing emotions as signals we can respond wisely.
The Genuineness of Your Faith
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIn the Bible, character is not affirmed until action takes place-namely obedience to God's commands in which faith or trust in God is the dominant ingredient.
Faith versus Doubtful Things
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsFaith falters when our attention moves to ourselves. God periodically allows storms to test our faith. We are driven back to God when there is nowhere else to turn.
Avoiding the Ruts of Puny Faith
Sermon by Bill OnisickWhen we have severe trials, we can experience a divided mind, exercising a puny faith. Does God find us willing to surrender to Him in all circumstances?
Peace With God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsLike the restless motions of the sea, man will always have conflict without God's intervention and without the guiding influence of God's Holy Spirit.
Passing By in Glory
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus' walking on the water in the pitch-black darkness of early morning, revealing Himself to the disciples, alludes to the time God passed by Moses.
Prevailing Winds
'Ready Answer' by Gary MontgomeryThe steady, contrary winds of this world's way of life can be overcome by adjusting our sails to make spiritual headway.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod not only upholds, but also guides and propels His creation, periodically overruling man's mismanagement with floods, fires, winds, and earthquakes.
Holiness (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHoly things are set apart from the rest, consecrated, sanctified, and transcendentally separate. God wants to transform us into that very image.