Parables of Matthew 13 (Part 1): The Mustard Seed
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Bible, in both parables and prophecies, interprets itself and remains consistent in its use of symbols. We cannot arbitrarily attach meaning to symbols.
Parables of Matthew 13 (Part Two): The Parable of the Sower
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe first parable of Matthew 13 lays the groundwork (pun intended) for the remainder of the chapter. Martin Collins explains the various soils upon which the seed of the gospel falls, and the reasons why growth—or its lack—results.
Parable of the Sower
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsGod spreads His Word liberally among the world's people. Besides God's direct involvement in converting people, the difference between one growing in it and another "dying on the vine" is the soil in which the Word is planted, explained in Jesus' Parable of the Sower.
Amending the Soil
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, commenting on the dry and hard clay in South Carolina, a real challenge to cultivate, identifies some grounds of comparison Christ cites between ourselves and clay (soil). In the Parable of the Sower, Christ describes 1.0) hard, impenetrable soil of the wayside, vulnerable to birds, symbolizing the devil and …
Little Things Count!
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughNo act is insignificant because of two natural principles: the tendency for increase, and what is sown is reaped. These principles play major roles in our lives.
Every Action Has a Reaction
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEvery action has a corresponding reaction; even the little things we do matter. Sin produces increase (the leavening effect) just as righteousness does.
What's in It for Me?
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerMark Schindler, reiterating that we have been created in the image of God, and that those called by God are to have the His mind, reminds us that the seed-bearing herbs and trees indicate that God desires a continual process of regeneration and productivity in all aspects of His creation. Because seedbearing designates fruit …
John (Part 20)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJust as a seed must die to itself in order to bear fruit, we also must sacrifice our lives, submitting unconditionally to God's to bear abundant fruit.
A Blessing in Winter?
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeHaggai's last two prophecies are given on, and revolve around, Kislev (or Chislev) 24. Historically, this date has been highly significant, and it will be again.
The Third Day (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBiblically, the third day carries much historic and prophetic significance.
Esther (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, observing that the civil Festival of Purim in the Jewish community, commemorating the deliverance of the Jews from virulent anti-Semitism in ancient Persia, explains that this festival is celebrated with a notable spirit of merriment because it depicts a miraculous rescue from a hopelessly impossible …
His Eye Is on the Sparrow (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ has full control of the church. Everything of consequence, including the development of our character, is engineered by Him.
