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Leadership and Covenants (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThroughout Israel's history, godly leadership was often scarce in their relationship with God. The biblical record highlights occasional figures like Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, and David, but Ezekiel 34 poignantly describes Judah's leaders as shepherds who prioritized their own well-being over that of the citizens. Such self-centered leadership yielded poor outcomes, failing to guide and care for the people as a true shepherd should. In this context, a shepherd represents any human leader in authority—whether in government, education, business, entertainment, media, or even within the family—while sheep symbolize the citizens under their influence. Isaiah 3:12, written over a century before Ezekiel, reveals the decline in Judah's community life, with leaders causing the people to err and destroying their paths. Isaiah 59 further illustrates a culture in collapse due to immoral leadership, portraying a society where chaos reigned and the people suffered, yet God did not intervene with righteous shepherds to restore peace. This absence of divine response stemmed from the people's own unrepented sins, despite their cries for help. Moses stands as an exemplary leader in Israel's history, serving as God's prophet, priest, political head, governor, judge, and military commander. Under God's guidance, he formed the descendants of the Patriarchs into a nation, delivered His laws, and led them toward the Promised Land. His humility, kindness, moderation, and fairness in all dealings set a high standard, never allowing his significant roles or decisions to inflate his ego. Joshua, another notable leader, faithfully assisted Moses and later assumed leadership after his death. As an Ephraimite chosen by God, Joshua's steadfastness and humility shone through, leading Israel to serve the Lord throughout his days and beyond, as recorded in Joshua 24:31. These examples underscore the critical need for quality leadership to prevent societal degeneration under the influence of carnal minds and to guide communities toward righteousness.
Leadership and Covenants (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe contains a detailed record of both good and bad leaders, and it provides a repetitive principle that 'as go the leadership, so goes the nation.'
Leadership and the Covenants (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must become leaders in our own families, protecting them from the curses that are already falling on our nation. We have the obligation to fear God.
The Beast and Babylon (Part Seven): How Can Israel Be the Great Whore?
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod's Word frequently paints unfaithful Israel as a harlot because she has consistently played the harlot in her relationship with God.
Leadership and Covenants (Part Nine)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod's decision to destroy the earth and humankind by a flood was ultimately an act of great love, stopping mankind before his heart became incorrigible.
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.
The Fruit of Existentialism
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Progressives, oozing with pride, have brainwashed young people into embracing evil, godless propaganda, embracing immorality and ethical relativism.
Dominion and Leaven (Part One)
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeDominion theology holds that the church's responsibility is to spread God's Kingdom around the world, but it misunderstands the Parable of Leaven.
Deuteronomy (Part 3)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur goal shouldn't merely be to be saved, but to finish the spiritual journey God has prepared for us, developing the leadership to help those who follow.
Jehoshaphat
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAfter several catastrophes, Jehoshaphat finally became convinced that any decision without God in the picture is patently stupid.
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.
Climategate
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughThe e-mails of Climategate have exposed the sham and hypocrisy of leftist pseudo-scientists who have fudged the data, clearly lusting after government grants.
A Leader in Every Man!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAs Joshua felt fearful at assuming leadership, most men also feel the same trepidation, but God Almighty has placed in their DNA the ability to lead.
Prepare to Meet Your God! (Part Six): Complacency and Laodiceanism
Article by John W. Ritenbaugh and Richard T. RitenbaughThe prophet Amos preached a warning message from God against the complacency of the Israelites toward God and His way. Our nations should heed his warning.
Dominion and Leaven (Part Two)
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeContrary to Dominion Theology, the Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven are not about the church but describe the history and condition of Israel.
Four Warnings (Part Two): Beware of False Prophets
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod's people will know false teachers by their fruits. Even as helpless sheep, we must exercise vigilance detecting the fruits of their preaching.
Zephaniah (Part Three): Quick Destruction, Eternal Restoration
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughZephaniah has messages for the remnant of physical Israel, the house of David, and for the faithful remnant from the Israel of God.