Filter by Categories
How Much of the Mind of Christ Do We Have?
Sermon by David C. GrabbeSpiritual unity requires all to be of the same mind as Christ. When of the same mind as Christ, believers are also of the same mind as others who share that mind. Division in the church means that someone is not of the same mind as Christ. Each regenerated child of God has a measure of the mind of Christ by degrees and with more in some areas than in others. There is a long process to take on the image of Christ and have the fullness of His mind. This completion will not happen until the resurrection. The mind of Christ is not an all-or-nothing mindset. Christ prayed for oneness because believers must be led through the development of that divine mind. Even apostles struggled at times to be of the same mind as Christ. The flesh is the biggest impediment to having more of the mind of Christ. To be of the same mind as Christ requires arming with the same mind that works to build up relationships and to follow the example in suffering for the sake of future oneness. The flesh demands satisfaction immediately and is unable to take things patiently. The flesh embodies self-concern. The overriding concern of the mind of Christ is doing the will of God. It is impossible for members of the Body to be like-minded when there is selfish ambition or conceit. Conceit drives out the mind of Christ. Leaning on one's own understanding and being wise in one's own eyes come under the umbrella of conceit. The fleshly mind will defend itself even when it knows it is wrong. Jealousy, envy, discontentment, and a need to be right are all of the flesh. Factional motives become a problem when a group exerts greater sway than God and the truth. If one cares more about the mind of a group than about the mind of Christ, the faction has become an idol. God uses factions and divisions as part of testing. Seeking God with all the heart and all the soul enables reaching Him. The flesh is often unwilling to pay the price to sacrifice itself in continual seeking. The symptoms of division indicate a degenerating relationship with God. Dedication to seeking God with the whole life allows growth into the same mind as the Father and the Son.
The Same Mind
Sermonette byWe must not allow ideological differences to overshadow our shared faith, far greater than the lesser issues which currently divide us.
Of One Accord
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughConfusion and separation have been man's legacy since Eden. Christ is working to put an end to division, enabling us to be one with the Father and each other.
Think on These Things
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe epistle of Philippians contains some valuable advice to God's people today, having suffered some grievous trials which have bonded them together.
Hebrews as a Sermon (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God designed the sermon of Hebrews to motivate God's people, who are going through the same turmoil as those living in 65 AD, facing persecution from society.
Philippians (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul conveyed to the Philippians his optimism that his imprisonment was actually a blessing, enabling him to magnify his effectiveness and bear more fruit.
The Mystery of the Church
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod desires to know whether the spiritual remnants will choose His teaching or assimilating into the world, biting and devouring one another.
Themes of I Corinthians (Part 2)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughA true, godly minister does not draw people to himself, but instead to God. Not placing Christ at the forefront will lead to carnal-mindedness.
Pentecost and the Mystery of the Church
Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod forbids us to make alliances with carnal minds on divisive issues. The only division God desires is a separation from the world and its enticing drives.
The More Things Change
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe tend to think of the early Church as a 'golden age' of unity and momentum. But early church members experienced problems similar to what we face today.
Thank You for Finishing What You Start!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe should be thankful to God for His Holy Spirit, spiritual blessings, fellowship, as well as God's promise that He will finish what He has started.
Philippians (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWe must willing to yield to God's shaping of us, willing to be corrected and changed as He sees fit. If we become self-satisfied, He cannot work with us.
God the Father in the Old Testament
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Hebrew Scriptures reveal the existence of the Father. Deuteronomy 6:4 refers to God as one, signifying unity of purpose and identical character.
Displaying a Good Conscience: Politeness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsTrue politeness is not mere social formality but a sacred expression of Christian virtue. Genuine courtesy flows from love, humility, patience, and integrity.
Making the Right Choice
CGG Weekly by John ReissThe Bible is dogmatic about certain core doctrines, but we are left to decide how to understand other issues with principles we glean from His Word.
A Christian's Greatest Trial
Sermon by John O. ReidDaniel 7:25 reveals the strategy of the enemy: a concerted effort of the Beast to physically, mentally, and if possible, spiritually wear out the saints.