Cogitations on Christmas
Article by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
For Christians who observe the biblical holy days instead of traditional ones, Christmastime causes them to reflect on the holiday's unscriptural nature. This article brings together three brief essays by Richard Ritenbaugh and David Grabbe, contemplating Christmas contradictions, the modern debate over Christmas in an increasingly secular society, and the Christmas season as a time when true Christians can make a godly witness.
Article by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
For Christians who observe the biblical holy days instead of traditional ones, Christmastime causes them to reflect on the holiday's unscriptural nature. This article brings together three brief essays by Richard Ritenbaugh and David Grabbe, contemplating Christmas contradictions, the modern debate over Christmas in an increasingly secular society, and the Christmas season as a time when true Christians can make a godly witness.
The Ever-Deepening Culture of Death
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Recently, the British Parliament passed a resolution to move forward on a new law legalizing assisted death for citizens of England and Wales. While assuring the public that lawmakers would enact safeguards against misuse of this new "right," advocates also spoke of a chronically ill person's "duty" to die for the nation's sake. Richard Ritenbaugh shows that euthanasia laws tend to expand to include new "clients," deepening the culture of death.
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Recently, the British Parliament passed a resolution to move forward on a new law legalizing assisted death for citizens of England and Wales. While assuring the public that lawmakers would enact safeguards against misuse of this new "right," advocates also spoke of a chronically ill person's "duty" to die for the nation's sake. Richard Ritenbaugh shows that euthanasia laws tend to expand to include new "clients," deepening the culture of death.
Presumption and Divine Justice (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Over the past few generations, orthodoxy in virtually every aspect of life has been discarded, indicating how perverse human nature is in its determination to rebel against God. Whether it is adding uncommanded holidays to Christian worship or changing the day of rest, men presume to alter God's instructions. John Ritenbaugh uses several real-life examples to illustrate human presumption, a tendency we all share - and one God takes a severe stance against.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Over the past few generations, orthodoxy in virtually every aspect of life has been discarded, indicating how perverse human nature is in its determination to rebel against God. Whether it is adding uncommanded holidays to Christian worship or changing the day of rest, men presume to alter God's instructions. John Ritenbaugh uses several real-life examples to illustrate human presumption, a tendency we all share - and one God takes a severe stance against.
The Seven Churches (Part Ten): What Now?
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
God's people look upon the landscape of small and often-competing organizations left in the wake of God's scattering of the church and despair that it will never come together again. However, God has not forsaken His elect! As the world's evils increase, Jesus Christ is at work, evaluating His people and testing them to increase their faith and endurance. Richard Ritenbaugh offers several prophecies that show God's plan to shepherd His people through the coming crisis before Christ's return.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
God's people look upon the landscape of small and often-competing organizations left in the wake of God's scattering of the church and despair that it will never come together again. However, God has not forsaken His elect! As the world's evils increase, Jesus Christ is at work, evaluating His people and testing them to increase their faith and endurance. Richard Ritenbaugh offers several prophecies that show God's plan to shepherd His people through the coming crisis before Christ's return.
The Unknown Deadline
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
On several occasions, Jesus told His disciples they would not know the day and hour of His return. He declared that even He did not know - only the Father does! Similarly, no one knows when his life will end. These two unknown deadlines should effectively concentrate a Christian's efforts to make the best use of his time, engaging in developing godly character. David Grabbe urges Christians to ignore the distractions and desires of this world and become rich toward God.
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
On several occasions, Jesus told His disciples they would not know the day and hour of His return. He declared that even He did not know - only the Father does! Similarly, no one knows when his life will end. These two unknown deadlines should effectively concentrate a Christian's efforts to make the best use of his time, engaging in developing godly character. David Grabbe urges Christians to ignore the distractions and desires of this world and become rich toward God.
How Much Does God Love Us? (Part One)
'Ready Answer' by Pat Higgins
When a student of the Bible reads it carefully, he is often startled to find truths so profound that they seem unbelievable. Such a truth appears in John 17:23, where Jesus states without resentment or jealousy that the Father loves every child of God as He loves Jesus Christ! How can that be? Pat Higgins explores the ramifications of that undeserved love on our faith and ability to endure to the end.
'Ready Answer' by Pat Higgins
When a student of the Bible reads it carefully, he is often startled to find truths so profound that they seem unbelievable. Such a truth appears in John 17:23, where Jesus states without resentment or jealousy that the Father loves every child of God as He loves Jesus Christ! How can that be? Pat Higgins explores the ramifications of that undeserved love on our faith and ability to endure to the end.
What Happened at En Dor?
Article by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The narrative of King Saul of Israel visiting a medium at En Dor on the night before his final battle is an anomaly in Scripture, relating the story of a "successful" seance. When read carefully, the text, along with a few biblical principles, reveals much more than what meets the eye. Richard Ritenbaugh dissects I Samuel 28 to expose several common misconceptions about the events of that night.
Article by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The narrative of King Saul of Israel visiting a medium at En Dor on the night before his final battle is an anomaly in Scripture, relating the story of a "successful" seance. When read carefully, the text, along with a few biblical principles, reveals much more than what meets the eye. Richard Ritenbaugh dissects I Samuel 28 to expose several common misconceptions about the events of that night.
The Final Harvest
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Are the unconverted dead lost? John Ritenbaugh answers that there is hope for them! This part of God's plan is typified in the meaning of the Last Great Day.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Are the unconverted dead lost? John Ritenbaugh answers that there is hope for them! This part of God's plan is typified in the meaning of the Last Great Day.
Preparing for the Feast
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
It is a rare individual in God's church who does not enjoy keeping the Feast of Tabernacles. Each feast becomes "the best Feast ever!" But why does God want us to keep this Feast? John Ritenbaugh shows that the Feast of Tabernacles is far more than a yearly vacation. It is a time set apart for both rejoicing before God and learning to fear Him.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
It is a rare individual in God's church who does not enjoy keeping the Feast of Tabernacles. Each feast becomes "the best Feast ever!" But why does God want us to keep this Feast? John Ritenbaugh shows that the Feast of Tabernacles is far more than a yearly vacation. It is a time set apart for both rejoicing before God and learning to fear Him.
Pride, Humility, and the Day of Atonement
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The Day of Atonement, also called "the Fast," is known for God's command to afflict our souls through fasting. Going without food and water helps us realize how dependent we are on God's providence, and it is also quite humbling as we realize our weakness. Thus, it makes an ideal time for self-evaluation and repentance. John Ritenbaugh explains that such humble recognition of our helplessness is a critical step in becoming one with God.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
The Day of Atonement, also called "the Fast," is known for God's command to afflict our souls through fasting. Going without food and water helps us realize how dependent we are on God's providence, and it is also quite humbling as we realize our weakness. Thus, it makes an ideal time for self-evaluation and repentance. John Ritenbaugh explains that such humble recognition of our helplessness is a critical step in becoming one with God.
'Behold, He is Coming with Clouds'
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
Jesus Himself instructs us to live by every word of God (Matthew 4:4; Luke 4:4), advice that is also useful when we study the Bible. Most of the passages that describe Christ's return to earth in power and glory at the end of the age contain the same detail: that He will come in, on, or with clouds. David Grabbe provides biblical background to help us understand why this detail is significant.
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
Jesus Himself instructs us to live by every word of God (Matthew 4:4; Luke 4:4), advice that is also useful when we study the Bible. Most of the passages that describe Christ's return to earth in power and glory at the end of the age contain the same detail: that He will come in, on, or with clouds. David Grabbe provides biblical background to help us understand why this detail is significant.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Joy is the second fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22. While people pursue happiness in various ways, good and bad, godly joy is far more than mere happiness, delight, cheer, or good feeling. Solomon, who sought joy in many endeavors, said he never really found it and urges us to grasp the fleeting joys we find. John Ritenbaugh shows the missing piece in the search for joy is the Holy Spirit we receive as part of our relationship with God.
'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Joy is the second fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22. While people pursue happiness in various ways, good and bad, godly joy is far more than mere happiness, delight, cheer, or good feeling. Solomon, who sought joy in many endeavors, said he never really found it and urges us to grasp the fleeting joys we find. John Ritenbaugh shows the missing piece in the search for joy is the Holy Spirit we receive as part of our relationship with God.
A World at War
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
As Jesus warned, we hear increasingly of wars and rumors of wars. Over the past three years, global conflict has risen markedly, spurred by larger regional wars in Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Israel. Africa, Asia, and the Middle East alone account for 55 state-based conflicts, and Islamic actors drive many of them. Joseph Baity briefly examines the global situation, concluding that we should prepare for more intense turmoil.
'World Watch' by Joseph B. Baity
As Jesus warned, we hear increasingly of wars and rumors of wars. Over the past three years, global conflict has risen markedly, spurred by larger regional wars in Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Israel. Africa, Asia, and the Middle East alone account for 55 state-based conflicts, and Islamic actors drive many of them. Joseph Baity briefly examines the global situation, concluding that we should prepare for more intense turmoil.
The Seven Churches (Part Nine): Laodicea
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Jesus Christ's final letter to the seven churches focuses on the Laodiceans' self-deceived evaluation of their spiritual condition. They believe they "have need of nothing," but the righteous Judge warns them that their lukewarm attitude has made them "wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked." Richard Ritenbaugh encourages end-time Christians to throw off any attitudes of spiritual entitlement and submit to Christ's correction.
Bible Study by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Jesus Christ's final letter to the seven churches focuses on the Laodiceans' self-deceived evaluation of their spiritual condition. They believe they "have need of nothing," but the righteous Judge warns them that their lukewarm attitude has made them "wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked." Richard Ritenbaugh encourages end-time Christians to throw off any attitudes of spiritual entitlement and submit to Christ's correction.
What Restrains the Man of Sin?
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
When some restraining force is removed, the man of sin or lawless man will rise to dominate the end time. Many have speculated on what restrains him, from God Himself to the church to human governments. In the context, Paul hints at the correct answer, writing that "the mystery of lawlessness is already at work." Charles Whitaker chronicles the decline of Bible-based law in society over the last four centuries, which has paved the way for the man of sin.
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
When some restraining force is removed, the man of sin or lawless man will rise to dominate the end time. Many have speculated on what restrains him, from God Himself to the church to human governments. In the context, Paul hints at the correct answer, writing that "the mystery of lawlessness is already at work." Charles Whitaker chronicles the decline of Bible-based law in society over the last four centuries, which has paved the way for the man of sin.
Flavorless Salt
'Ready Answer' by Hunter D. Swanson
Competitive cooking shows pit chefs against one another, often with a panel of experts to judge their offerings. One maxim of such shows is, "Flavor trumps all," and in many cases, all a dish might need to achieve better flavor is just a little more salt. Hunter Swanson expands on this principle, applying it to the apostle Paul's instruction to Christians in Colossians 4:6, "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt."
'Ready Answer' by Hunter D. Swanson
Competitive cooking shows pit chefs against one another, often with a panel of experts to judge their offerings. One maxim of such shows is, "Flavor trumps all," and in many cases, all a dish might need to achieve better flavor is just a little more salt. Hunter Swanson expands on this principle, applying it to the apostle Paul's instruction to Christians in Colossians 4:6, "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt."
Who Will Be Kept from the Hour of Trial?
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
It is entirely human to try to avoid anything that might be unpleasant, and this reaction is especially true of an event as destructive as the Great Tribulation. While God promises to protect some during that time, it comes with a caveat. David Grabbe posits that, if we show patient endurance now, overcoming and growing, God may bless us with protection from that horrible trial.
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. Grabbe
It is entirely human to try to avoid anything that might be unpleasant, and this reaction is especially true of an event as destructive as the Great Tribulation. While God promises to protect some during that time, it comes with a caveat. David Grabbe posits that, if we show patient endurance now, overcoming and growing, God may bless us with protection from that horrible trial.
The Torment of the Godly (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
God's prophets have a difficult job. They see the world around them through God's eyes, and they are tormented by the rising tide of sin and the coming destruction it will bring. Charles Whitaker focuses on a series of Ezekiel's visions to reveal, from God's perspective, what is really happening behind the scenes and how His people should respond to it.
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker
God's prophets have a difficult job. They see the world around them through God's eyes, and they are tormented by the rising tide of sin and the coming destruction it will bring. Charles Whitaker focuses on a series of Ezekiel's visions to reveal, from God's perspective, what is really happening behind the scenes and how His people should respond to it.
'Perfect In His Generations'
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
An important key to correct biblical interpretation is to understand a verse or passage as the author intended, not according to our own prejudices. Genesis 6:9 has suffered such a biased interpretation, taken to mean that God chose Noah because he was racially pure. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that a quick study into the Hebrew words of this verse clarifies the reasons for God's choice.
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
An important key to correct biblical interpretation is to understand a verse or passage as the author intended, not according to our own prejudices. Genesis 6:9 has suffered such a biased interpretation, taken to mean that God chose Noah because he was racially pure. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that a quick study into the Hebrew words of this verse clarifies the reasons for God's choice.
A Course Correction?
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The near-miss assassination attempt on the life of former President Donald Trump may indicate God's intervention in world affairs. The Most High God, Daniel 4 asserts, rules in the kingdoms of men, and He does what He wills to guide events to His desired ends. Richard Ritenbaugh advises that, as Christians, we should consider what God may be orchestrating to bring about the "crisis at the close of the age" and the return of Jesus Christ.
'World Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The near-miss assassination attempt on the life of former President Donald Trump may indicate God's intervention in world affairs. The Most High God, Daniel 4 asserts, rules in the kingdoms of men, and He does what He wills to guide events to His desired ends. Richard Ritenbaugh advises that, as Christians, we should consider what God may be orchestrating to bring about the "crisis at the close of the age" and the return of Jesus Christ.