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Silence in Heaven (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhen the seventh seal is opened, silence descends on heaven for about half an hour. This profound quiet is connected directly to prayer as an angel stands at the altar before God's throne and offers incense mingled with the prayers of all the saints. The silence indicates that God is not inactive but is instead waiting for the perfect time to act in response to those prayers. The same angel then fills the censer with fire from the altar and casts it to the earth, producing effects that signal impending judgment. Prayers that please God are those offered by people who share His anguish over sin and align with His standards of righteousness, loving what He loves and hating what He hates. Such prayers serve as testimony that can be presented as evidence against the world when judgment is executed. In the judgment upon Babylon, the saints are called to rejoice at her silencing because God has avenged them, while those aligned with Babylon mourn her destruction. Prayers therefore reveal the degree to which hearts are in harmony with God or have been drawn toward Babylon, determining who will be spared the coming plagues.
Deception by Silence
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThose who are obeying Christ's command to 'watch therefore, and pray always' should not be so naïve as to trust any one source for news of the world.
Silence in Heaven (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhen the Seventh Seal opens, all activity in heaven appears to stop as the heavenly realm turns its attention to what comes next, pausing in silent anticipation.
The Cold Culture of Silence (Part Two)
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles WhitakerOur culture has deteriorated into one of cold, unloving silence on the subject of the dysfunctional family and the frequent delinquency of its children.
Trumpets and the Fall of Jericho
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughOne major incident involving the blowing of trumpets occurred at the outset of Israel's incursion into Canaan, when God brought down the walls of Jericho.
The Sound of Someone Listening
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityIt behooves God's people to learn to listen, never missing a good chance to 'shut up.' We must practice the sound of silence.
To Answer a Fool—or Not
'Ready Answer' by David F. MaasDo we answer a foolish question in an attempt to help, or do we refrain from answering, not wanting to legitimize the fool and his foolishness?
Flame Wars
Sermonette byAre we part of flaming — the aggressive and offensive interaction between Internet users? Or do we pursue righteousness in our speech and communication?
Consider Before You Speak
CGG Weekly by John O. ReidBeyond knowing the basics of Christianity, we must put them into practice. For instance, learning how to answer others will help us gain understanding.
Shouting Gleanings and Singing Olives (Part One)
Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Isaiah 24 prophesies that God will preserve a remnant made up of grape gleanings (the His Church) and of olives (national Israelites) who will sing together.
The Rest of the Story
Sermon by Mark SchindlerIn I Corinthians 11:29, we are cautioned not to partake of the Passover in an unworthy manner, a primary example of which is the shabby treatment of brethren.
Zephaniah (Part One): The Day of the Lord Is Near!
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughZephaniah's prophecy is sharply focused on Judah and Jerusalem because they should have known better. They are ordered to keep silent and consider their sins.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Eleven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Ecclesiastes deals with quality of life issues for those who have been called, emphasizing responsibility and choice, continually fearing God.
Strategies for Interfacing with Babylon Without Becoming Assimilated (Part Three)
Sermon by David F. MaasThe current stormy cultural headwinds consist of noise, hurry, and party spirit. We must replace the gentile style of leadership and elevating leaders.
Forbearance
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod put up with the foibles of Abraham, Samson, David, Job, and others, allowing them time to repent and build character. We need to develop this godly trait.
Reacting to Criticism
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsAll have been guilty of malicious gossip; consequently, they should not become offended when they hear gossip about themselves (Ecclesiastes 7:21).
Spiritual Strongholds (Part One): Obedience
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJoshua quickly acquiesced to God, realizing that it is not a question of God being with us; we must yield unconditionally to the sovereign will of God.
How Big Is God?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must not have a one-dimensional perspective of God. Our puny minds can only grasp a tiny sliver of what God really is.