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Proper Memorials and the Right Spirit
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe spies' false report emerged after God instructed Moses to send one leader from each of the twelve tribes to examine the land of Canaan. Upon their return the men acknowledged that the land flowed with milk and honey and displayed its fruit, yet they immediately emphasized the strength of its inhabitants, the size and fortification of its cities, and the presence of the descendants of Anak. They declared the land one that devoured its people and portrayed themselves as grasshoppers in their own eyes and in the eyes of the inhabitants. This report, driven by fear rather than remembrance of God's prior deliverance, spread a broken spirit throughout the congregation. The people wept, complained against Moses and Aaron, wished they had died in Egypt or the wilderness, and proposed selecting a new leader to return there. Joshua and Caleb, who urged the congregation not to rebel or fear because the Lord was with them, were threatened with stoning. God responded by declaring that the generation which had witnessed His glory and signs yet tested Him these ten times would not enter the land; their carcasses would fall in the wilderness. Only Caleb, who possessed a different spirit and followed God fully, and Joshua would inherit the promise along with the next generation. The episode illustrates how failure to internalize God's mighty acts produced a self-serving perception that replaced the reality of His assured victory, resulting in the loss of inheritance for an entire generation.
Fear and Faith (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Mike FordThe spies returned on the 8th of Av, and as the 9th of Av began, the people murmured, beginning a long list of calamities to befall Israel on this date.
Why Was God So Angry With Israel? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Mike FuhrerThe well of God's patience is not bottomless. Today, we are witnessing God's waning patience with this nation as He removes His hand of protection.
Five Major Problems in the Wilderness
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod did not take ancient Israel by a direct route, and our lives likewise may seem to wander. We must trust God in spite of the detours, following His lead.
The Sin of Fear (Part One)
'Ready Answer' by Pat HigginsPhobias are common, but our fears can have far more serious consequences. The Bible warns that the wrong kind of fear could keep a person from God's Kingdom.
Caleb: Wholeheartedly Following God Exemplified
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingThough often overshadowed by Joshua, Caleb stands out as a man with a 'different spirit,' loyal, courageous, patient, and unwavering in trust, who saw God.
Numbers (Part One): Journey in the Desert
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod never says the Christian life would be easy or that life would always be fair. Difficulties and tests are given to test our hearts and promote humility.
Numbers (Part Two): Graves in the Wilderness
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIf we, like Israel of old, choose to sin, we will receive the same consequence. Two thirds of the book of Numbers emphasizes that if we sin, we die.
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.
Are We Ready To Enter The Promised Land?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe may not be troubled by giants or enemy nations, but we have trials of similar magnitude. We dare not behave as the timid spies, but live with boldness.
Christianity Is a Fight! (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe most formidable foe in our spiritual battle is the flesh. We must mortify, slay, and crucify the flesh, enduring suffering as Jesus Christ exemplified.
Does Doctrine Really Matter? (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe church of God is not immune to the deterioration of doctrine. Minor deviations from doctrine bring about irreparable, disastrous consequences.
Numbers: The Book of Judgment
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe live daily in uncharted territory, but the sobering account in Numbers provides a roadmap, establishing God's pattern of judging our pilgrimage conduct.
Flee From Idolatry (Part Two): Faithfulness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughLike a boxer, we must exert ourselves with a broad spectrum of skills to subdue our carnal bodies, mortifying the flesh with maximum self-discipline.
Are You an Israelite?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMost of ancient Israel, because of their hardened hearts, did not please God. We must reflect on the the ways they stumbled so we can walk differently.
We Will Serve the Lord!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJoshua's deeds were demonstrations of God's power. Joshua charged the leaders to remain courageous, love God and His Law, and serving Him with all their heart and soul.
The Bethel Stone
Sermon by Kim MyersThe Stone of Scone (Stone of Destiny or Bethel Stone) affirms God's Davidic covenant that his offspring would occupy the throne of David perpetually.
Wilderness Wanderings (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Israel's trek was not only a physical journey, but a mental wandering caused by rejecting God's leadership. The potential to sin is a test of resolve.
The Corps Of Discovery
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe real vision of uncharted exploration far surpasses the fantasy world of Star Trek, calling for more challenging work, akin to Lewis and Clark's expedition.