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Stewardship

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

A steward, in its historical sense, is one who manages something entrusted to them by a superior, often overseeing a household or estate with responsibilities such as supervising servants, managing finances, and ensuring provisions are maintained. In the context of a minister, this role takes on a profound significance. A minister, as a steward of God, is entrusted with the care of His people and His truth, accountable to guard, maintain, and enhance what has been given into their hands. The Bible illustrates this through various examples. Joseph, as a steward in Potiphar's house, served willingly and successfully, prospering everything under his care, demonstrating trustworthiness and enhancing his master's wealth. Similarly, Eliezer, Abraham's steward, faithfully executed his duties with great skill, selflessly ensuring the continuation of Abraham's lineage despite personal sacrifice. These examples highlight the qualities of dedication and faithfulness expected of a steward. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ emphasizes the importance of stewardship in an end-time context, urging ministers to be faithful and wise in preparing for His return. A minister must be ready to teach at any time, addressing needs as they arise, and must watch over the flock, finances, and resources to ensure they meet the Master's expectations. This includes providing spiritual nourishment in due season, balancing traditional understanding with fresh insights to aid in growth toward the Kingdom of God. Paul, in his letters, underscores this responsibility, portraying himself as a steward accountable only to God, determined to fulfill his duties with authority to guide the church from carnality to spirituality. He advises ministers like Timothy and Titus to be vigilant, to teach and explain God's mysteries, and to strive to present every person perfect in Christ Jesus. This stewardship is a tall order, demanding total devotion and loyalty to God, with no room for half-hearted service. The consequences of failing as a steward are severe, as Jesus warns of being cut off and counted among unbelievers if one abuses or neglects what has been entrusted. Yet, there is encouragement in knowing that judgment considers the extent of understanding and responsibility given. A minister, as a faithful steward, must use all resources and influence with eternity in mind, ensuring actions reflect a heavenly purpose and produce righteousness. Ultimately, a minister's stewardship is about serving others and glorifying God through Jesus Christ. It is a continuous labor, often fraught with challenges, but the faithful steward perseveres, focusing on the ultimate reward from God and the impact on those guided toward the Kingdom.

Titus (Part Two): A Faithful Ministry

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Titus had the remarkable ability for being a problem solver, exercising tact, diplomacy, strength, stability, and leadership when sent to problem areas.

The Parables of Matthew 13 (Part Nine): The Parable of the Householder

Bible Study by Martin G. Collins

The Parable of the Householder is addressed to Christ's disciples, and beyond them, to God's ministers, whom Jesus wants to feed His flock a balanced spiritual diet.

Principles of Church Leadership

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

A major responsibility for the fracturing of the WCG rested with the leadership, based on a philosophy of authoritarianism Christ warned against.

Themes of I Corinthians (Part 2)

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

A true, godly minister does not draw people to himself, but instead to God. Not placing Christ at the forefront will lead to carnal-mindedness.

The Peter Principle (Part One)

CGG Weekly by Mike Ford

The Peter Principle is a concept in business management developed by Laurence J. Peter: People in a hierarchy tend to rise to their level of incompetence.

Conviction and Moses

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Our conviction reveals itself in living by faith. Moses is a stunning example of how a convicted Christian should live — with loyalty and faithfulness to God.

Removing Bars of Contention Between Brethren

Sermon by David F. Maas

In a dangerous and troubled world in which everyone is being manipulated and conned into squaring off in hatred for one another, we must find common ground.

Corinthian Parallels to Sodom

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

I Corinthians is a practical manual for surviving in a Sodom-like culture, guarding against the corrosive aspects of our perverted culture and its excesses.

What Does God Really Want? (Part 4)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We are called to fulfill our job as a steward, entrusted with managing, protecting, preserving, attending, and increasing what has been entrusted to us.

Paul's Letter to Titus (Part 1)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Paul encourages Titus to seek out teachers who have an ardent love of the truth, and warns him about false teachers who deceive the congregation.

The New World Order Rises

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

The Beast is a reality, and it is coming to pass in the scope of globalism. Satan has a vast reservoir of people he can work through; we used to be a part of it.

Living by Faith: Humility and God's Justice

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Humility, poverty of spirit, and acknowledging our total dependence on God are of the utmost importance. God responds to those who are humble.

Living by Faith: God's Grace (Part Three)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Grace implies empowerment for growth. It is the single most important aspect of our salvation, and His giving of it is completely unmerited on our part.