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Checklist for Overcoming
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAffection for the brethren is the goal toward which Romans 12 builds, culminating in verse 10: "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love." The Greek word for "kindly affectionate" appears only here in the Bible and denotes tender affection like that between parents and children, a cherishing fondness for kindred. Christians should feel this toward one another as members of one family, united in the same principles and interests. Such affection depends on the steps that precede it. Right doctrine must be acted upon, beginning with a willingness to sacrifice self, since human nature wars against the Spirit. Next comes a sober, humble assessment of oneself (Romans 12:3), because pride drives gossip, talebearing, and offense, and divides the church. Because the church is Christ's Body and its members depend on one another, mistreating a brother injures Christ Himself. God sovereignly gives unequal gifts, but every member is necessary and none is less important. Love must be "without hypocrisy" (Romans 12:9), sincere goodwill toward all regardless of how they respond, given as an act of faith in the God who judges righteously, as Christ entrusted Himself to Him. Those who show such love are peacemakers and a force for unity, while respecters of persons stir resentment and division.
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.
Reach for the Goal
Sermon by John O. ReidSimilar to the way people pull together in times of crisis, we must also have a goal, a vision of the finish line, in order to overcome and grow.
Friends of the Friendless (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by John ReissTrue worship of God is more than just not sinning but also visiting the widows and the fatherless. These categories represent all who are weak and lack support.
Friendship Within the Church
Sermon by Mark SchindlerWe will be judged on our responsiveness to each other and our subsequent friendship with our brethren, one that goes through the grave for all eternity.
You Are My Friends!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhile it is common on Facebook to defriend/unfriend, Christ's love for His people is a friending with the condition that godly fruit is produced.
Philippians (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul teaches that individual overcoming in lowliness of mind, putting others ahead of self, leads to the whole body being strengthened.
Are You Being Brainwashed? (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsUnder group or authority pressure, many people would willingly inflict torture on other human beings, especially if sanctioned by a scientist in a white coat.
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.
For the Love of God
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloWe are royalty, part of the highest Family in all creation. We can take great comfort in knowing who it is we really are and that the Father greatly values us.
We Have an Advocate With the Father
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhen we sin, we have an advocate with Jesus Christ, who has been commissioned to forgive our sins upon repentance. There is no forgiveness apart from Christ.
Giving All Diligence!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe recipients of Peter's epistle were having difficulty holding on to their faith, having succumbed to fear as a result of lack of discipline and laziness.
The Glory of God (Part 4): Glorifying God
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughA raw display of emotion and exuberance does not necessarily glorify God. What we do to glorify God will reflect just how highly we esteem Him.