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Casuistry and Fanaticism
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The Pharisees could be considered a casuist, a person who resolves religious or ethical arguments with subtle arguments that are in fact sophistries.
Zeal
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamJesus warns that our zeal must exceed that of the Pharisees. Zeal involves earnestness in advancing a cause, diligence, and plowing ahead with great fervor.
The Foolishness of Bias
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe wise must not be diverted by fallacies, but must patiently sift through the facts, separating them from inferences and measuring them against the Word.
Christian Zeal
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughZeal has been discredited as the tool of the charlatan, but Christians must develop passion and zeal for the Christian way of life and the Kingdom of God.
Idolatrous Suppressors of the Truth
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhen John talks about idols, he is going far beyond things like statues, icons, and crucifixes, but instead anything people focus on first.
Keep Yourself From Idols
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAn idol is anything in our lives that occupies the space which should be occupied by God alone, anything having a controlling force in our lives.
Letters to Seven Churches (Part Four): Pergamos
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughCultural compromise, such as found in Pergamos, brings judgment from Jesus. To those who refuse to compromise their convictions, Christ promises eternal life.
Overcoming Satan's Competitive Spirit
Sermonette by Bill OnisickThe competitive spirit to dominate a competitor, not confined to athletic contests, militates against God's mandate that we esteem others over ourselves.