Filter by Categories
Parable of the Faithful and Evil Servants
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Faithful and Evil Servants is found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 24, verses 45-51. In this parable, Jesus describes two types of servants: one who is faithful and wise, diligently carrying out his duties, and another who is evil, neglecting his responsibilities and abusing his authority. The faithful servant is rewarded by being put in charge of all the master's possessions, symbolizing the blessings and responsibilities given to those who are faithful in their service to God. Conversely, the evil servant, who thinks his master is delayed and begins to mistreat others and indulge in sinful behavior, will be punished severely upon the master's unexpected return. This parable serves as a warning to be vigilant and faithful in one's duties, as the time of the master's return—or the second coming of Christ—is unknown.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughJesus provides a powerful lesson on faithfulness in the Parable of the Faithful and Evil Servants, emphasizing the importance of readiness and commitment as the end of the age approaches. In this parable, He illustrates that the faithful servant, who diligently performs his duties and remains vigilant, will be rewarded by his master upon his return. Conversely, the evil servant, who neglects his responsibilities and indulges in wickedness, assuming the master delays, will face severe judgment. This teaching underscores the necessity of steadfast devotion to Him, urging believers to prioritize their allegiance to Christ above all earthly attachments. The parable serves as a solemn reminder to remain alert and faithful, patterning one's life to be ready for His coming, as He promises to reward those who hold fast to their duties with unwavering commitment.
Parables of Matthew 13 (Part 3): Hidden Treasure
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the exploration of the parables of Matthew 13, the Parable of the Faithful and Evil Servants emerges as a vital lesson within the broader context of spiritual conflict and encouragement. This parable underscores a minister's duty to the church, emphasizing the responsibility to present the truths of God in a manner that is clear, fresh, and living, fostering growth among the congregation. It highlights the dual role of a minister as both a teacher and a learner, continuously seeking understanding to effectively guide others. As part of the larger narrative, this parable complements the themes of redemption, preparation, and fair judgment provided by Christ, ensuring that the church is equipped to navigate the spiritual warfare it faces. Through this teaching, Christ assures His followers of His support, reinforcing their position as more than conquerors in the battle against adversarial forces.
Watch What?
'Prophecy Watch' by Pat HigginsJesus Christ, in Mark 13:37, issues a powerful command to all: Watch! This directive, delivered with authority, demands strict attention and obedience from everyone. The urgency of this command is evident, as Christ uses the Greek word "gregoreuo," meaning to watch, fourteen times in the Gospels, emphasizing the need to be prepared for His return, the timing of which remains unknown to us. We do not know the day or hour of His coming, nor do we know when our own lives might end, which, for each of us, marks the moment of His return in our personal experience. Therefore, watching is a serious and necessary endeavor to ensure readiness for His sudden appearance in our lives. Christ not only commands us to watch but also demonstrates what it means through His own actions. In critical moments, He watched through intense prayer and spiritual preparation, especially during the hours leading to the greatest event of His human life. In contrast, His disciples failed to watch, falling asleep instead, and as a result, they were unprepared and faltered. Watching, as shown by Christ, involves a deep focus on spiritual readiness, far beyond mere awareness of external events. It requires us to prioritize the state of our character over distractions, ensuring we are not caught off guard by misplaced attention. The essence of Christ's command in Mark 13:37 is to focus on spiritual vigilance. The vital question is not whether we are prepared for future events, but whether we are ready for His return in our lives today. Thus, we must heed His urgent call to all: Watch!
The Peter Principle (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Mike FordIn exploring the Spiritual Peter Principle, we find profound guidance in Christ's Parable of the Faithful and Evil Servants as recorded in Luke 12:35-41. Jesus instructs, Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them. If he should come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. This parable underscores the necessity of vigilance and readiness, as the master, typifying Christ Himself, could return at any unforeseen moment. Our role as servants is to remain alert, attentive, and diligent in managing the gifts and responsibilities entrusted to us by God. Jesus further elaborates in Luke 12:42, asking, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Here, the faithful steward is one who manages well and is consequently entrusted with greater responsibilities. The call to watchfulness extends to all, as Jesus emphasizes in Mark 13:37, And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! We are to be ever-prepared, actively serving and managing the gifts God has bestowed upon us, ensuring we are found faithful whenever He returns.
A Clean, Well-Lighted Place
Sermon by David F. MaasAs ambassadors, we have the responsibility to be lights, quietly modeling God's Law in our lives by exemplifying the fruits of the Spirit continuously.
'As a Thief in the Night'
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeChrist's second coming is described as being like 'a thief in the night.' Here is what it means for Christians living in the end times.
Where Is the Promise of His Coming?
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughAs this world keeps on turning, more people become skeptical about the return of Jesus. The Bible, however, insists that He will come again and quickly.
Focus
Sermon by John O. ReidThough Christ has warned us to be aware of the times, we need to be more alert to how we are living. End-time events should lead us to repentance.
We Still Need a Sense of Urgency
Sermon by Kim MyersGod's selecting a particular candidate does not necessarily mean He has given America a reprieve from the results of her sins. We still need a sense of urgency.
The Peter Principle
Sermon by Mike FordAs one uses the power provided by God's Holy Spirit, even one who has previously failed miserably can rise to astounding levels of spiritual competence.
Unity and Division: The Blessing and a Curse (Part Two)
'Ready Answer' by Charles WhitakerA curious phenomenon ties together several biblical stories: God makes a judgment and divides His people into two groups, often splitting them down the middle!
Death, or Not A Hair of Your Head?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsOur challenge in the wake of the terrible things we witness now is to retain confidence that God is in control, even though our faith will be sorely tested.
Stewardship
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughA steward is responsible for the supervision or managing of something entrusted into his care by a superior. As God's stewards, have been entrusted with much.
Trumpets, Christ's Coming, and Works
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBecause the exact time of Christ's return is not known, we must always be ready, as though His return is imminent. Those not prepared will be blindsided.
Shrugging Off Scoffers (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAny prophetic speculation, accurate or not, is useless unless it is promotes diligence in living godly lives, eagerly preparing for the return of Christ.
The Relationship Deficit (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn the unsettling letter to the Laodiceans, Jesus paints a picture of Himself in relation to the church that reveals His people care about other things.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Profit from life is produced by work, requiring sacrifices of time and energy. We have been created for the very purpose of doing good works.
But Will You Love Me Tomorrow?
'Prophecy Watch' by David F. MaasIn the letters to the seven churches, Scripture foresees that a dearth of steadfastness marks the time of the end, but Christians are urged to hold fast.
Lessons From Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim
Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)If God's Law has not been written in our hearts, the corporate entity in which we find ourselves will not save us from the wrong side of the judgmental cut.
Leadership and the Covenants (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must become leaders in our own families, protecting them from the curses that are already falling on our nation. We have the obligation to fear God.
Don't Be a Prudent Agnostic
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSome of us, facing the stress of the times, may simply be going through the motions but losing every vestige of faith. We must strengthen our convictions.
Free Will or God's Sovereignty?
Sermon by David C. GrabbeIf God is sovereign and promises salvation to believers, why does it matter how believers live? How significant are our choices in the grand scheme of life?
Foundations
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidThe pillars of the Parthenon were fitted together in sections. It is impossible for these pillars to stand without a solid foundation.
The Peter Principle (Part Four)
CGG Weekly by Mike FordGod has given us certain gifts and the space to use them. He expects us to use them properly in service to Himself and the Body, and requires an accounting.
The World, the Church, and Laodiceanism
Booklet by John W. RitenbaughLaodiceanism is the attitude that dominates the end time. It is a subtle form of worldliness that has infected the church, and Christ warns against it strongly.
Will You Be Accounted Worthy for the Kingdom?
Sermon by John O. ReidLike businessmen reviewing plans, making forecasts, and anticipating accountability, God expects us to define and follow through on spiritual objectives.
A Place of Safety? (Part 5)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughObsessing about the Place of Safety is a sure way to disqualify oneself from it. God calls some faithful, zealous ones for martyrdom during the Tribulation.