Filter by Categories
The Sixth Commandment (Part 2): War! (1997)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughIn the context of war and righteousness, there is a profound distinction between the wars of this world and the spiritual allegiance owed to God. Many killings have been committed in the name of God, with holy wars leaving marks of fear and bloodshed across regions like the Middle East, and even influencing conflicts in other parts of the world. These wars, often fueled by passionate conviction, mirror a belief in righteousness that places the perpetrators above crime or sin. Yet, even in so-called just wars, people must be stirred to anger and hatred to kill, transforming peaceful citizens into warriors through training and incitement, not unlike the frenzy of holy wars elsewhere. God's supremacy over the nations reveals a different path. Scripture shows that He, the supreme Creator and Ruler, has promised to fight for His people supernaturally, negating the need for them to shed blood, provided they obey Him. Instances like the parting of the Red Sea and the defense of Jerusalem demonstrate His power to intervene, as He instructed His people to stand still and witness His salvation. However, Israel's history reflects a pattern of weak faith and disobedience, often leading them to war despite His promises. Their doubt and dissatisfaction became motivators for conflict, even when God allowed it as a consequence of their choices. As citizens of a heavenly Kingdom, our loyalties and submission must go to God before all else. We are not of this world's systems and are called to refrain from fighting in its wars. Our position as ambassadors of that Kingdom means we do not have the legal authority to involve ourselves in the conflicts of human nations. The central command remains clear: we must not kill. If we obey God's commandments and exercise faith in His promises, He will fight our battles, ensuring we never need to resort to violence. Only at the establishment of His Kingdom on earth will we participate in battle under His divine authority.
Trumpets Means War!
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhen Jesus Christ returns, He will marshal an army of resurrected saints who will wage a just war against the Satan-inspired end-time rebellion.
The Divine Warrior
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThis message presents a cohesive biblical theology of God as the Divine Warrior, a central image revealing His righteous power, justice, and mercy. Divine warfare is not a relic of primitive religion, but instead a profound expression of God's sovereign authority and redemptive purpose throughout Scripture. Beginning with the Exodus and Red Sea deliverance, God is shown fighting for His people, not through miraculous intervention, teaching them to trust in His power: "The Lord will fight for you." This theme continues in Joshua's encounter with the "Commander of the Lord's army," identified as the pre-incarnate Christ, and in the recurring title, "Lord of Hosts" ( Yahweh Sabaoth) , the sovereign commander of heaven's armies who rules over all earthly and cosmic powers. The later sections ( Isaiah, Deuteronomy, Revelation) deepen this portrayal wicked nations, expressing divine justice against evil, not cruelty. His sovereign right to judge and to show mercy, as Paul explains in Romans, reflecting His absolute holiness. The vision culminates in Revelation 19, where Christ appears as the victorious Warrior -King, who defeats evil, vindicating the righteous, establishing eternal peace. Divine warfare ultimately revealing God's redemptive Justice. Christ's battle is not for destruction, but for the renewal of creation and the triumph of His kingdom. God's might in battle embodies His sovereign justice, covenantal love, and ultimate victory over evil- calling His people to awe, trust, and worship.
The Sixth Commandment
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe sixth commandment, forbidding murder, is rare among the Ten Commandments in that a clear line can be drawn between its commission and its consequences.
The Commandments (Part Fourteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughMany biblical examples illustrate that when the leader put his faith in God and submitted himself to God's rule, God supernaturally protected His people.
Do You See God in Deuteronomy?
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God displaced the Amorites because they had defiled the land; not one righteous person existed. Israel was warned not to defile themselves with demonism.
Spiritual Strongholds (Part One): Obedience
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJoshua quickly acquiesced to God, realizing that it is not a question of God being with us; we must yield unconditionally to the sovereign will of God.
Abraham (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham was willing to lay down his life to rescue his nephew Lot. His sacrifice shows us what kind of effort and sacrifice is needed to wage spiritual war.