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The Priesthood of God (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Jesus Christ is the High Priest of the temple that is central to the worship of God. As we are in Him, we become part of His priesthood, sharing in His work even now, without waiting for the resurrection. Since He is the High Priest, His responsibilities become our responsibilities, uniting us in purpose with Him. In the vision of Revelation 5:9-10, it is shown that God has made us kings and priests to our God, preparing us to reign on the earth under Jesus Christ. The role of the High Priest, exemplified by figures like Melchizedek in Genesis 14:18-19, who blessed Abraham and conferred good upon him, highlights the significance of this office. Melchizedek, described as both king of Salem and priest of the Most High God, sets a precedent for the dual authority and spiritual influence that Jesus Christ embodies as our High Priest. Historically, high priests like Eleazar in Joshua 14:1 were directly involved in significant national decisions, such as the division of land, demonstrating their influential role alongside leaders like Joshua. The priesthood, from its early roots in Genesis 4 with Cain and Abel's offerings to the structured system under Moses in Exodus 25:40, reflects a divine pattern established by God, underscoring the importance of the High Priest's role in representing Him and guiding His people.
The Priesthood of God (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Our responsibility as a royal priesthood and a kingdom of priests is to become holy as God is holy, exceeding the holiness of the Levitical priesthood.
The Priesthood of God (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)A priest, having cognizance of his own weaknesses, has an obligation to empathize with other peoples' weaknesses and bear one another's burdens.
The Priesthood of God (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must endure chastening and correction to grow in holiness and become priests. In the qualifications of a Melchizedek priest, zeal and holiness are mandatory.
The Priesthood of God (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The ephod, the curious girdle, and the breastplate of judgment were part of the high priest's attire that teach us godly principles today.
The Priesthood of God (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The priestly garments represent the holy character of God. Clothing is used as a badge of one's office and symbolizes what our character is like inwardly.
Holy Days: Atonement
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughAtonement, a day of fasting, pictures God's solution to the problem of human sin. This Bible study shows why this solemn day is so vital!
Hebrews (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ's priesthood is superior to the Aaronic priesthood because Christ tenure is eternal rather than temporal, guaranteeing both continuity and quality.
Sanctification and Holiness (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn Numbers 16-18, God performed several miracles to demonstrate conclusively that not everyone is called to the same function and that He remains the Boss.
After the Resurrection
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe absence of the 100 pounds of aloes, the folded 'turban,' and the rolled away stone indicate that a thorough cleansing and purification had occurred.
The Day of Atonement and Israel's Future
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe cleansing of Joshua's filthy robes in Zechariah 3 is a future application of the cleansing in Leviticus 16, when Jesus Christ cleanses Israel in the future.
Hebrews (Part Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWith godly hope, we need to envision the successful accomplishment of God's purpose for us, realizing that God has bound that promise with an oath.
Hebrews (Part Five)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe ancient Israelites resisted the gospel, refusing to mix it with actual obedience. What they heard never became a part of their lives; Egypt never left them.
A Time to Tear
Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)The practice of rending clothes symbolizes sorrow, agony, despair, and hopelessness, a realization that God alone can restore the profound loss.
Hebrews (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus experienced the same temptations and suffering we do, qualifying Him for the role of High Priest, the bridge-builder between man and God.
We Have an Advocate With the Father
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhen we sin, we have an advocate with Jesus Christ, who has been commissioned to forgive our sins upon repentance. There is no forgiveness apart from Christ.