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Overcoming (Part 2): Self-Justification
Bible Study by StaffWhen our sins are uncovered, the normal first reaction is to hide them from God, others, and even ourselves, a tendency common to humanity since the first two human beings. The Bible recognizes this human inclination to justify oneself, but God does not look kindly on such ploys, as they can lead to destruction. We often use excuses like "It's too hard," "There wasn't time," or "The devil made me do it" to justify our lack of productivity, yet Jesus Christ judges us by our fruits as doers, not by our intentions. Parents may also teach justifications by excusing their children's bad behavior with phrases like "It's okay, honey. You didn't have your nap," passing down a legacy of self-justification that can devastate even nations when leaders influence their heirs. Using excuses such as "After all, I'm just human" or "Everyone is doing it" does not justify personal sin, for God is interested only in our repentance, overcoming, and growth, forgiving only as we repent. If we convince ourselves that our faults and sins are excusable, we gain nothing but the penalty of death, as self-justification cannot grant eternal life. Only the shed blood and sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, who suffered mightily for us, can justify us. He seeks those who will admit their faults and work daily to overcome them. David, after justifying his grievous sins of adultery with Bathsheba and murder of Uriah, repented bitterly when confronted, loathing his sin, seeking God's cleansing, and determining to correct his conduct. He stands as a model of repentance and overcoming, showing that by admitting faults and striving to overcome, we work out our salvation and seek eternal life.
Lamentations (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPersonified Jerusalem, whom God depicts as a grieving widow, blames others for her troubles while overlooking her own sins as the real cause of her sorrow.
Lamentations (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe expressions of sorrow in the Psalms far outnumber expressions of praise, indicating that the Hebrew culture has almost made the lamentation an art form.
The Buck Stops Here
Article by David F. MaasMany people shirk responsibility for their errors, 'passing the buck.' Avoiding blame when we are at fault shows poor character, a failing we must overcome.
Repentance and Righteousness (Part 1)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughNothing happens in our lives (including repentance) until God initiates it. A change of heart, by God's Holy Spirit, results in a total change of direction.
Lamentations (Part Eight)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAs we approach the coming self-examination prior to Passover, we can apply six significant lessons taught to ancient Israel through the book of Lamentations.
Lamentations (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn Lamentations 3, the narrator finally convinces Lady Jerusalem that her own sins have caused her necessary punishment and affliction by God.
Psalm Genres (Part Six): Penitential Psalms
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPenitential Psalms focus on the deep human experience of guilt and God's transformative response to it. God uses guilt to lead people toward repentance.
Lessons From Saul and David
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingGod chose both Saul and David, the first complying with the people's choice (judging by outward appearance and stature), the second by judging inwardly.
The Petrified Heart
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloThe antidote to the fear of repentance caused by pride is godly humility and the willingness to be set on the right spiritual course.
Among the Few
Sermon by Mark SchindlerInitially, the primary motivation for responding to God's call may be a panicky desire to save our skin, gloming onto a place of safety like Petra.
Are You Dissipating Your Own Energy?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe need to be on guard against dissipating our energy, becoming over-immersed in activity and busyness to the point of losing overall effectiveness.
Joseph: A Saga of Excellence (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEven allowing for mankind's free moral agency and propensity to stumble, God still works out His purpose, even when people do not know it is for their good.
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.
Restoration and Forgiveness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIt is impossible to grow spiritually in a climate of animosity and jealousy. If we use the power of God's Holy Spirit, peace will accrue as a fruit.
The Beauty of God's Law
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughKeeping God's Law brings bountiful blessings, harmony, and profound peace (Psalm 119:165), while the 'cheap' grace brings guilt, anxiety, and pain.
The Promises of God
Sermon by John O. ReidIn this time of confusion and rapid change, we have a desperate need for something solid to hold onto. Some of the most secure things are the promises of God.
Philippians (Part Nine)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughGodly righteousness demands humility, a readiness to admit shortcomings, a yieldedness to correction, and a willingness to be refashioned.
John (Part Nineteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe key to the real abundant life is to follow Christ's example of forcing His will into submission to the Father's will, even to the point of death.