Filter by Categories
Reconciliation (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughReconciliation with man, as exemplified by the historical and biblical narratives, is a profound and challenging process that requires deep humility, patience, and sacrifice. The story of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson illustrates how even the bitterest of political enemies can restore friendship after years of estrangement. Once great friends, their ideological divide turned them into adversaries, yet, prompted by a mutual acquaintance, they tentatively renewed correspondence in their later years. Through persistent letter-writing, Adams and Jefferson reconciled, demonstrating that with time and effort, broken relationships can be mended, allowing them to die as friends on the same day, July 4, 1826. In the biblical account of Isaac and Abimelech, reconciliation emerges through perseverance in doing good. Despite the envy and fear of the Philistines, who forced Isaac to abandon wells and move repeatedly, he refrained from conflict. His non-aggressive stance and patience eventually impressed his adversaries, leading them to seek a peace covenant with him. Isaac's humility and gentleness, even in the face of unjust treatment, paved the way for reconciliation and brought blessings of peace and abundance. Jacob's efforts to reconcile with Esau reveal the lengths one must go to heal past wrongs. Returning after twenty years, Jacob, now a changed man, sought to make amends for stealing Esau's birthright and blessing. Through strategic gifts of livestock, presented in successive waves to soften Esau's heart, and by displaying vulnerability and submission—bowing seven times before his brother—Jacob opened the door to forgiveness. Esau embraced him, and though they agreed to live apart to maintain peace, the brothers restored goodwill between them. Joseph's reconciliation with his brothers showcases forgiveness rooted in recognizing a greater purpose. After testing their character over time, Joseph determined they had matured from the cruelty they once showed him. Revealing his identity, he absolved them of guilt, emphasizing that their actions, though harmful, were part of a divine plan to save many lives. His humility and willingness to overlook past hardships allowed for a restored relationship, uniting them once more as family. These accounts underscore that reconciliation with man is neither easy nor swift. It demands persistent effort, a readiness to sacrifice personal pride, and a commitment to restoring harmony, often requiring one to bear vulnerability and extend generosity even when wronged. The process, though arduous, holds the promise of renewed relationships and peace when approached with sincerity and patience.
The Cost of Reconciliation
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughReconciliation is the product of a sacrifice to pacify the wrath of an offended person. We must imitate Christ in His approach toward hostility from others.
Strategies for Interfacing with Babylon without Becoming Assimilated (Part Seven)
Sermon by David F. MaasTrue peacemaking means emulating Christ, which that involves promoting justice and righteousness, not merely avoiding conflict or appeasing by compromising.
Choosing the New Man (Part Two)
Article by Charles WhitakerThe spiritual new man is one who is reconciled to God and has chosen to collaborate with Him in creating a totally new mind—one just like Christ's!
Anger (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe dare not let the sun go down on our wrath. Uncontrolled anger can be a major cause of mental and physical illness. We must reconcile with our adversaries.
Thou Shall Love Thy Neighbor
Sermon by John O. ReidWe are obligated to show compassion and mercy to all, refraining from gossip, exercising righteous judgment, forgiving others and applying the Golden Rule.
The Parable of the Leaven, Expanded
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBitterness divides one member of Christ's Body from another. Individuals often look for a 'doctrinal' reason to justify leaving a congregation.
Separation and Oneness With God
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughSince the beginning, God's purpose has been to bring all things into harmony with Him, giving mankind a respite from the heaviness of a sin-laden world.
Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Six): Cultivating Kindness
Sermon by David F. MaasBecause kindness is love in action, we must galvanize our thoughts into concrete behaviors, including offering encouraging words and performing uplifting deeds.
John (Part Twenty-Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWhile the other accounts of Jesus' trial and crucifixion seem to show passivity, John shows Jesus totally in charge, purposefully and courageously moving.
Matthew (Part Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus, showing the spirit of the law, warns against rash divorces, taking oaths, invoking God's name frivolously, realizing that a covenant is binding.
The Commandments (Part Eleven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHonor of parents is the basis for good government. The family provides the venue for someone to learn to make sacrifices and be part of a community.
Of One Accord
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughConfusion and separation have been man's legacy since Eden. Christ is working to put an end to division, enabling us to be one with the Father and each other.