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Faith and the Christian Fight (Part Eight)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Sarah, as a pivotal figure in the narrative of faith, stands as a profound example alongside Abraham, recognized as the mother of the faithful. Her life, though less documented, reveals a deep complement to Abraham's journey, sharing in the same spiritual pilgrimage with a faith that was uniquely her own. As highlighted in I Peter 3:6, Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and demonstrated a life of moral purity, respectful behavior toward God, and a focus on internal spiritual adornment rather than external appearances. Her trust in God allowed her to control fear, maintaining a gentle and peaceful disposition despite the challenges she faced as the weaker sex. In Hebrews 11:11, it is noted that through faith, Sarah herself received strength to conceive a child past the age of childbearing, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. The insertion of "also" by Paul emphasizes her individual faith, distinct from Abraham's, underscoring that she stood on her own spiritual feet. She was not merely submissive to Abraham but was faithful to God on the basis of her personal calling, experiencing the same trials, including the command to sacrifice Isaac, and receiving her own forgiveness and gifts for her role in the spiritual body of Jesus Christ. Sarah's journey was not without flaws, as seen in Genesis 18:9-15, where her initial laughter at the promise of a child reflected doubt and distrust. Yet, God's response was one of gentle correction rather than punishment, recognizing her weakness rather than harsh skepticism. This incident reveals God's patience and mercy, judging her according to her circumstances and allowing her time to grasp His promise. Her eventual repentance and step of faith, despite human reason and carnal resistance, led to the supernatural healing of her womb, demonstrating that God supplies additional faith when one acts on what they already possess. Her designation as a free woman in Galatians 4:21-26 further elevates her spiritual standing, aligning her motherhood with the heavenly Jerusalem, the spiritual mother of all. This freedom signifies her high moral and spiritual character, independent of Abraham, though united with him in faith and purpose. Sarah's story teaches that God works with human weaknesses, providing strength to overcome trials, as echoed in Isaiah 40:29-31, where those who wait on the Lord renew their strength. Her faith, ultimately trusting in God's promises beyond immediate impossibilities, exemplifies a profound lesson in stepping out with whatever faith one has, assured that God will provide what is lacking.

Abraham's Sacrifice (Part One): Faith Perfected

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The Scriptures place a paramount importance on sacrifice. Abraham's 'sacrifice' of Isaac confirmed him to the position of father of the faithful.

Hebrews (Part Thirteen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Abraham, the father of the faithful, did not have a blind faith; it was based upon observation of God's proven track record of faithfulness.

Isaac

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The name Isaac—'laughter'—suggests his optimistic disposition, someone not afflicted by fear and doubt. Isaac serves as a type of Christ, honoring his father.

Hebrews (Part Twelve)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Hebrews 11 provides examples to bolster faith. The faith described is not blind, but is carefully developed from systematic analysis of available evidence.

Abraham (Part Nine)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

God helps us to overcome our problems in an unraveling process, sometimes taking us back through the consequences of the bad habits we have accumulated.