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Absolute Power Corrupts
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe federal government, along with state and local entities, has been aggregating power since the nation's founding, often restricting freedoms under the guise of national security or crisis management. With every war, depression, civil strife, natural disaster, or social inequality, the government has increased its control over citizens, exacting new measures of dependence. State and local governments, feeling their power erode, seek to compensate by exerting greater authority over individuals. A striking example is seen in Charlotte, where the Department of Social Services (DSS) removed ten children from Jack and Kathy Stratton, claiming inadequate care and supervision without providing substantial justification. Despite the Strattons being an intact, loving family with a long-term marriage, the DSS has accused them of abuse without proof, allowing only their oldest child to return upon reaching adulthood. This case exemplifies an egregious abuse of power, a pattern not unique to Charlotte but occurring nationwide against everyday Americans striving to live outside mainstream norms. Christians, in particular, must be cautious as the worldview driving these abuses is often secular and politically correct. To avoid such persecution, it is wise to minimize attention to differences, adhere strictly to laws, maintain a low profile in practices like homeschooling or refusing immunizations, and ensure a respectable public appearance. Pray for God's protection and heed the wisdom of prudence in evil times, foreseeing potential harm and safeguarding oneself and family.
The Right Use of Power
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWith dominion comes responsibility to maintain. The sad history of mankind shows that he has mismanaged his power, bringing about disease, war, and famine.
'Christianity Today' and Trump
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughDonald Trump is not a paragon of virtue but is a change from the doctrines entrenched in Washington. Personal morality is not enough to remove anyone from office.
Would Jesus Christ Vote? (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsBecause it is not directly mentioned in Scripture, people often ask if voting is biblically condoned. The real question is, would Jesus vote?
The Handwriting Is on the Wall (2000)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThose entrusted with power within the community and nations are taking advantage of their positions, metaphorically raping those who have no power.
Trump, Comey, and Theology
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughComey's efforts to target and control those whom he felt had exceeded their authority (Hillary Clinton; Donald Trump) explains his administrative behavior.
The House of Annas
CGG Weekly by John ReissThe most powerful Sadducee in the first century was Annas, who was appointed high priest. Accumulating impressive power at an early age, Annas used it well.
Cuomo's Non Mea Culpa
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughDecency, honor, and truthfulness in politicians is like lipstick on a pig. Proverbs 26:25 warns that we must be cautious when anyone's speech is charming.
Hebrews 2: God Is Present
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God's people must immerse themselves daily in the Scriptures. While sinning Israelites consider God to be absent, He is nevertheless present with His saints.
Intensity is Increasing: Are You Listening?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)It is far more important for God's called-out ones to be ready than to know the time of Christ's return, an event to which even He is not privy.
Ecclesiastes and Christian Living (Part Fifteen): Deference
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughSolomon makes the subject of deference a major part of Ecclesiastes 8. Christians must always strive to see God behind those in power over us.
The Leavening of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herod
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingJesus warned of three varieties of leaven that we must guard against, staying aware of the pitfalls that will pull us down and corrupt us.
Is the United States a Christian Nation? (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)America has never embraced true Christianity as its dominant faith, nor has it ever really followed Christ, but has instead embraced a counterfeit.
Micah (Part Three): Who Is a God Like You?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMicah 5 describes legal proceedings against the people who have rejected God, promising a harsh retribution but future restoration for a physical remnant.
Control and Self-Control
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughParadoxically, when we yield to God's sovereignty, He wants to cede control over to us, teaching us to develop self-control as an ingrained habit.
Christianity Is a Fight! (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe sanctification process requires us to cooperate with God in order to produce Christian works and character, preparing us for the Kingdom of God.