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The Ministry
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidBrethren, we must guard against the attitude of distrust and complaint that can so easily pervade our hearts, especially in a society where authority is often abused. Such murmuring and contention create an environment that Satan thrives in, while it is the exact opposite of what God desires for His church. Most complaints seem to be directed toward the ministry, and we acknowledge the frustration that arises. Yet, we are called to control these attitudes and not allow them to fester among us. We in the ministry are not here to entertain, but to serve as God has placed us. Each elder has been given different gifts by God to fulfill this purpose. We have walked the same paths as you, facing challenges of work, tithing, and standing for the Sabbath and holy days. We have endured threats to our livelihoods and wrestled with our own character flaws, preaching to you while examining ourselves. God has placed us here to serve Him by serving you, and we strive to do so despite our imperfections. When questions or confusion arise, we urge you to follow the example of the Bereans, studying to see if what is taught is so. If clarity is still lacking, reach out to the minister with your concerns in a mature and calm manner. Present your study, ask your questions, and if resolution is not immediate, humbly seek God's guidance for both yourself and the minister. This approach reflects the mind of God, fostering growth rather than discord. We must remain vigilant, for Satan, the adversary, seeks every opportunity to destroy us. his hatred grows as his time shortens, and he will use subtle tactics to deceive. We represent the Kingdom of God on earth, called to reflect His love and live in harmony as a family. Let us conduct ourselves with humility, esteeming others above ourselves, bearing patiently with one another's faults, and pursuing peace. United in one body, one Spirit, one hope, and one Lord, we share the same faith and baptism, dwelling as the temple of God. This unity should lead us to peace and deep appreciation for each other, resisting Satan by drawing close to God.
Checklist for Overcoming
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRomans 12-16 provide a checklist for overcoming and promoting positive relationships, developing tender affection. We are mutually dependent upon one another.
Hebrews 12 and 13: Advice for the End Time
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must lay aside every weight, accept God's chastening, receive encouragement from those who have gone before, and get back into the spiritual race.
Ambassadors for Christ
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe are sojourners, pilgrims, aliens, and ambassadors, living among, yet separate from, the peoples of this present world. We must be loyal to our spiritual family.
Sovereign God, Not Man
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughWe have all become little 'sovereigns.' Everyone thinks he or she can make up the rules about God's truth, when God is to be the sole arbiter of truth.
'I'll Never Follow Another Man!'
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThis is an oft-repeated refrain in these days of distrust of the ministry. But is it a godly attitude? What does the Bible say about human leadership?
For the Perfecting of the Saints
Booklet by John W. RitenbaughDo Christians need a church? With all the church problems in recent years, many have withdrawn. Yet the church—problems and all—serves a God-ordained role.
Jude and the Glorious Power of God
Sermon by Mark SchindlerAttributing the messages of God's spokesmen as coming from Satan constitutes speaking evil of dignitaries. Jude emphasizes submission to divine authority.
Corinthian Parallels to Sodom
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughI Corinthians is a practical manual for surviving in a Sodom-like culture, guarding against the corrosive aspects of our perverted culture and its excesses.
Confessions of a Finger-Pointer
'Ready Answer' by StaffDuring times of unrest and confusion, it is easy to blame others for our problems. Yet finger-pointing is contrary to everything God teaches.
Self-Government and Responsibility (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe need free moral agency to be transformed into God's image. Unless one has God's Spirit, he cannot exercise the internal control to be subject to the way of God.
Whose Side Are We On?
Sermon by Bill OnisickWhen we step into the role of the accuser, especially when we dare to accuse our spiritual siblings, we are acting on behalf of Satan the devil.
The Fifth Teacher
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeCorinth had four positive teachers, yet a mysterious fifth teacher was also influencing them and instilling beliefs that were the source of all the bad fruit.
A Matter of Honor
'Ready Answer' by StaffThe Bible has a great deal to say about honor and whom we should honor. Here are some difficult but necessary lesson in honor.