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Standing on the Sea of Glass
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe biblical imagery of the sea often conveys power, danger, and chaos, reflecting the tumult of peoples, the roar of invading armies, and the restlessness of the wicked. In contrast, the Sea of Glass before God's throne symbolizes calm, order, and peace, representing the holiness and purity of God's presence. The earthly sea embodies defiance and rebellion, pushing against the boundaries set by God, yet God controls it, calming its waves and restraining its chaos, as demonstrated by Jesus calming the Sea of Galilee. In Solomon's Temple, the bronze sea, a large basin of water, mirrors the Sea of Glass, symbolizing chaos subdued and brought to order by the Lord. This bronze sea, with its immense capacity and intricate design, underscores the abundance of cleansing water, reflecting the spiritual purity and cleanliness essential for worship. The Sea of Glass in heaven, described as crystal clear and mingled with fire, further embodies God's justice, holiness, and righteous indignation, while also reflecting the eternal peace and absence of evil in heaven. The Sea of Glass before God's throne is a magnificent foundation, duplicating the glory of the throne through its mirror-like quality, revealing all before the sight of God. It stands as an emblem of peace, righteousness, and justice, contrasting sharply with the earthly sea's unrest. Victorious saints are seen standing on this Sea of Glass, singing songs of triumph, highlighting its role as a place of celebration and worship. In the vision of the New Heaven and New Earth, there will be no more sea, symbolizing the absence of threats against God's creation and sovereignty. The earthly sea, representing the seething nations and troubled lives of the unrighteous, will cease to exist, indicating a transformation from physical to spiritual, where immense bodies of water are no longer necessary. This change underscores the finality of God's judgment and mercy, ushering in eternal peace.
God's Sea of Glass (Part 1)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsUnlike tumultuous waves, the sea of glass before God's throne is tranquil and serene. Before we can stand on this sea of glass, we must be set apart and cleansed.
A Beast on the Horizon
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaKarl Theodore zu Guttenberg seems to be preparing to be a Fuhrer of Europe with just as much alacrity as some formerly attributed to Franz Josef Strauss.
Foam
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamIn Scripture, foam is usually accompanied by a state of agitation, as in hurricanes, angry waves of the sea, nations being torn asunder, or demonic influence.
The Beast From the Earth and 666
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe first beast rises out of political turmoil, while the second rises out of an entrenched, worldwide religious system, totally opposed to God's laws.
Distress of Nations
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaBefore Christ's return, we will see dramatic signs in the heavens, while on earth distress of nations and uprisings will be symbolized by roaring waves.
The Parables of Matthew 13 (Part Eight): The Parable of the Dragnet
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe penultimate parable of Matthew 13 uses the illustration with which Christ's disciples were very familiar: fishing in the Sea of Galilee.
Lamentations (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe expressions of sorrow in the Psalms far outnumber expressions of praise, indicating that the Hebrew culture has almost made the lamentation an art form.
The Book of Daniel (Part Five)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsDaniel 7-8 is full of overlapping images and visions. Both chapters show the certainty of the end of Gentile kingdoms, replaced by God's eternal Kingdom.
Jude
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe book of Jude, a scathing indictment against false teachers, may be the most neglected book in the New Testament. False teachers twist grace into license.
Restoration and Forgiveness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIt is impossible to grow spiritually in a climate of animosity and jealousy. If we use the power of God's Holy Spirit, peace will accrue as a fruit.
Parables of Matthew 13 (Part 3): Hidden Treasure
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe church constitutes Christ's treasure, hidden in the world, purchased and redeemed with Christ's blood. The Pearl of Great Price depicts a rich merchant (Christ), the only one who had the means to redeem His church. The Dragnet symbolizes the scope of God's calling while the separation process indicates God's high standards of selection, indicating a time of righteous and impartial judgment. The Householder parable shows the responsibility of the ministry to be authoritative interpreters of scripture, using what they have learned and experienced to instruct the people.