The Purpose of Offerings
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Pastor General of a well-known church made a statement that turned the giving of offerings into a competition and a rich man's game. Is this God's intent?
Investing in Eternal Life
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughJohn Ritenbaugh, reflecting on the Protestant notion that "a person's works are of no avail" asserts that this is a faith -killing prescription because faith without works is dead. Protestants also feel that any thought of reward taints the whole process of salvation. When all of the scripture are not brought into the …
Offerings and Taxes
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, comparing the tax systems devised by human governments with God's offerings, observes that mankind's tax laws are intricate, while God's system of offerings are straightforward. Deuteronomy 16:16 does not specify the exact amount of the offering, but does ask us to make a thoughtful recollection of the …
Jumping Into the Shallow Pond (Part Two)
'Ready Answer' by Charles WhitakerPhilosophers and ethicists, steeped in humanism, shoot wide of the truth in answering, 'Who is my neighbor?' Charles Whitaker explains that the Bible reveals the answer to this big moral question, as well as providing sensible guidelines on the finer details of Christian charity.
Sowing and Reaping
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughJohn Ritenbaugh in this offertory message suggests that unfortunately, for many people, much their lives have often been dominated by fear of loss. Fearing loss of face (or loss of image) may lead to lying. Fear of any kind is never an excuse to break any of God's laws. God wants us to learn the principle of reciprocity- that …
Is Redistribution of Wealth Biblical?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Bible shows that economic disparity is a given. Scripture teaches that we should voluntarily help the poor rather than be coerced by the government.
"If I Have Not Charity"
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughChristianity has both an inward aspect (building godly character or becoming sanctified) and an outward aspect (doing practical good works).
Eternal Paradoxes
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsMartin Collins, examining the properties of a paradox (a statement that is seemingly contradictory or opposed to common sense and yet is perhaps true), suggests that paradox plays an essential role in the lives of those called by God. Some of the paradoxical truths of God include, "He who loses his life will find it," …
Essence of Love
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaDavid took all the persecutions from King Saul, and then later showed his mercy to Saul's extended family, he demonstrated the true essence of godly love.
Elements of Motivation (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEternal life, emphasizing a special intimate relationship with God the Father and Christ, is vastly different from immortality, connoting only endless existence.
A Survey of God's Gifts to Us
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe apostle Paul inventories spiritual gifts that God has given for the edification of the church, including ministry of the word and practical service.
Why We Tithe (Part 1)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh explores the spiritual intent of the tithing principle. Because everything in the universe belongs to God, including the natural resources from which we get our wealth (we have nothing that didn't come out of the earth- including ourselves), we should not regard tithing as a bill we grudgingly pay. As part of …
The Need for Forgiveness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughRichard Ritenbaugh, expounding upon the principle that it is more blessed to give than to receive, suggests that the things we ardently desire for ourselves we should be willing to give to others, including forbearance and forgiveness. Following the Apostle Paul's example to the Corinthians, we ought to forgive and comfort one …
