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The Fourth Commandment (Part Two): Christ's Attitude Toward the Sabbath
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Sabbath stands as a profound blessing, woven into the fabric of creation by God Himself. Genesis 2:3 declares that God blessed the Sabbath day, a unique distinction not given to any other day, following the physical blessings pronounced on animals and man. This blessing, conferred upon the whole creation, serves as the capstone of Creation week, promising God's favor as our spiritual benefactor throughout human history, while also encompassing physical benefits. Jesus ties His ministry to the Sabbath's concepts of blessing, deliverance, liberty, and redemption, affirming in Mark 2:27 that the Sabbath was made for man, equipping us to emerge from spiritual slavery and to remain free. Each Sabbath reminds us that God is both Creator and Liberator, sustaining our liberty as we keep it, for when Israel rejected the Sabbath, they lost their freedom and went into captivity. God's Sabbath memorial, recurring weekly, acts as a constant renewal of our spiritual heritage and original release from sin, reorienting us whenever we stray. Through His actions and teachings, Jesus magnifies the Sabbath, restoring it to its original divine intent as a day of mercy and loving service, ensuring life rather than deprivation. It is a day to do good, to lighten burdens, and to save lives, reflecting the essence of redemption and the spiritual creation God desires for us.
The Sabbath: Redemption
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod has blessed us with the Sabbath, a period of holy time, when He redeems us from the clutches of our carnality and this evil world.
Carefully Tending and Keeping God's Extraordinary Blessings
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod's Sabbaths are inestimable blessings which should not be squandered; we must tend and keep these blessings, avoiding the careless use of hallowed time.
The Day God Rested
Sermonette by Ryan McClureGod gave the Sabbath as a blessing for man, which, if kept correctly, gives rejuvenating rest, a relief from stress, and a defense against illness.
It's Not Our Time
Article by David C. GrabbeWe live in a society that is increasingly concerned about ownership. Yet who owns the Sabbath? How does the answer to this question affect our keeping of it?
The Fourth Commandment (Part One) (1997)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughMost people think the fourth commandment is least important, but it may be one of the most important! It is a major facet of our relationship with God.
The Fourth Commandment (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Sabbath reminds us that God is Creator and that we were once in slavery to sin. The Sabbath is a time of blessing, deliverance, liberty, and redemption.
The Fourth Commandment
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughAt creation, God sanctified only one day, the seventh, as a day of rest. At Sinai, He again sanctified it as a holy day, tying it to creation and freedom.
The Commandments (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughGod gave the Sabbath to His people so they can know Him intimately. Idolatry, scattering, and captivity are the natural consequences of Sabbath-breaking.
Leadership and the Covenants (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Paul urges Euodia and Syntyche to follow the example of Christ rather than placing their desire to be right over unity. Godly leadership follows submission.
Are You Living the Abundant Life?
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. RitenbaughNon-Christians tend to see Christianity as an utterly boring, rigid way of life. However, Jesus says He came to give His disciples abundant life. Here's how.
Living Abundantly In Tough Times
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughLived properly, a Christian's life is scintillating and deeply satisfying, full of rewards, even though it involves responsibility and self-control.