Year
'Perfect In His Generations' (July 24, 2024)
An important key to correct biblical interpretation is to understand a verse or passage as the author intended, not according to our own prejudices. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that Genesis 6:9 has suffered such a biased interpretation and shows what the Hebrew really implies.
An important key to correct biblical interpretation is to understand a verse or passage as the author intended, not according to our own prejudices. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that Genesis 6:9 has suffered such a biased interpretation and shows what the Hebrew really implies.
A Course Correction? (July 17, 2024)
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.
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.
The Seven Churches (Part Eight): Philadelphia (July 10, 2024)
Most Church of God members consider the church in Philadelphia the best of the seven churches to which Christ writes letters in Revelation 2 and 3. His criticisms of Philadelphia are muted, and He promises its members protection from "the hour of trial" coming on the world. But have our biases blinded us to what Christ is really saying to this group? Richard Ritenbaugh posits that being a Philadelphian is good, but even Philadelphians have weaknesses.
Most Church of God members consider the church in Philadelphia the best of the seven churches to which Christ writes letters in Revelation 2 and 3. His criticisms of Philadelphia are muted, and He promises its members protection from "the hour of trial" coming on the world. But have our biases blinded us to what Christ is really saying to this group? Richard Ritenbaugh posits that being a Philadelphian is good, but even Philadelphians have weaknesses.
The Fruit of the Spirit: Love (July 3, 2024)
The apostle Paul lists love as the first of the fruits of the Spirit. Most people do not know what biblical love is, believing that it is caring for others, but that idea is insufficient. In his first epistle, the apostle John writes that love is the primary trait of God that exemplifies His character of outgoing concern that produces goodness. John Ritenbaugh explains what godly love is and what it does.
The apostle Paul lists love as the first of the fruits of the Spirit. Most people do not know what biblical love is, believing that it is caring for others, but that idea is insufficient. In his first epistle, the apostle John writes that love is the primary trait of God that exemplifies His character of outgoing concern that produces goodness. John Ritenbaugh explains what godly love is and what it does.
Tyre and Loving One's Enemies (June 26, 2024)
God's prophecy against Tyre is among the most remarkable in the Old Testament, providing details that were fulfilled exactly centuries later. God's judgment of the ancient city resulted from its pride, greed, and hatred for Israel and Judah, taking advantage of them during their downfalls. Mike Fuhrer uses its story as a cautionary tale, showing that God values our imitation of His love even for those hostile to Him.
God's prophecy against Tyre is among the most remarkable in the Old Testament, providing details that were fulfilled exactly centuries later. God's judgment of the ancient city resulted from its pride, greed, and hatred for Israel and Judah, taking advantage of them during their downfalls. Mike Fuhrer uses its story as a cautionary tale, showing that God values our imitation of His love even for those hostile to Him.
Jesus, Jairus, the Woman, and Faith (June 20, 2024)
One would think that a man like Jairus, a well-respected and wealthy ruler in the synagogue in Capernaum, would reject Jesus of Nazareth. But when his twelve-year-old daughter fell mortally ill, his perspective changed, and he begged Him to heal his dying child. Ted Bowling explores Mark 5:21-43, the story of the healings of Jairus' daughter and the woman with an issue of blood, finding lessons of humility, faith, and patience.
One would think that a man like Jairus, a well-respected and wealthy ruler in the synagogue in Capernaum, would reject Jesus of Nazareth. But when his twelve-year-old daughter fell mortally ill, his perspective changed, and he begged Him to heal his dying child. Ted Bowling explores Mark 5:21-43, the story of the healings of Jairus' daughter and the woman with an issue of blood, finding lessons of humility, faith, and patience.
Peter's Trumpets Message--on Pentecost (June 14, 2024)
Peter's first sermon took place on the Day of Pentecost, yet his subject seems more fitting for the Day of Trumpets. In that sermon, the apostle speaks from Joel 2 and its description of the Day of the Lord, which ends with the announcement that "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." Charles Whitaker explains that the fulfillment of Pentecost begins a process that God will complete in the fulfillment of Trumpets.
Peter's first sermon took place on the Day of Pentecost, yet his subject seems more fitting for the Day of Trumpets. In that sermon, the apostle speaks from Joel 2 and its description of the Day of the Lord, which ends with the announcement that "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." Charles Whitaker explains that the fulfillment of Pentecost begins a process that God will complete in the fulfillment of Trumpets.
The Final Frontier? (May 30, 2024)
The "space race" - the international competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to be the first to land a manned spacecraft on the moon and safely return it to the Earth - occurred within living memory. Now, a new space race is on: Nations are vying to dominate space with advanced weaponry in preparation for the next world war. Joseph Baity chronicles the nefarious potential of this latest competition among the nations.
The "space race" - the international competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to be the first to land a manned spacecraft on the moon and safely return it to the Earth - occurred within living memory. Now, a new space race is on: Nations are vying to dominate space with advanced weaponry in preparation for the next world war. Joseph Baity chronicles the nefarious potential of this latest competition among the nations.
The Seven Churches (Part Seven): Sardis (May 22, 2024)
The Sardis church, recipient of Jesus Christ's fifth letter in Revelation 2-3, is judged to be "dead" by the church's Head. He finds the people's works imperfect and their grasp on received truth slipping, commanding them to "hold fast and repent." But a few are still alive and worthy of God's Kingdom among them. Richard Ritenbaugh analyzes this lifeless church, urging us to use it as a spur to reinvigorate our spiritual lives.
The Sardis church, recipient of Jesus Christ's fifth letter in Revelation 2-3, is judged to be "dead" by the church's Head. He finds the people's works imperfect and their grasp on received truth slipping, commanding them to "hold fast and repent." But a few are still alive and worthy of God's Kingdom among them. Richard Ritenbaugh analyzes this lifeless church, urging us to use it as a spur to reinvigorate our spiritual lives.
The Fruit of the Spirit (May 15, 2024)
The Bible often uses agricultural illustrations in its teaching and perhaps none so frequently as the image of fruit. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul writes of nine specific spiritual products of the work of the Holy Spirit, opposing them to human "works of the flesh." In this introductory article to a series on the fruit of the Spirit, John Ritenbaugh considers fruit as a biblical symbol and the necessary elements required to produce fruit that pleases God.
The Bible often uses agricultural illustrations in its teaching and perhaps none so frequently as the image of fruit. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul writes of nine specific spiritual products of the work of the Holy Spirit, opposing them to human "works of the flesh." In this introductory article to a series on the fruit of the Spirit, John Ritenbaugh considers fruit as a biblical symbol and the necessary elements required to produce fruit that pleases God.
My House or God's? (May 8, 2024)
In a revealing passage (John 7:53-8:1), the apostle John contrasts Jesus Christ to the Jews, particularly the chief priests and Pharisees. While they returned to their homes as night began to fall, Jesus turned His steps toward the Mount of Olives, where He often prayed to His Father and where He will return. Noticing a parallel in Haggai 1, David Grabbe explains that God wants His people to prioritize His work of salvation above their physical comforts and desires.
In a revealing passage (John 7:53-8:1), the apostle John contrasts Jesus Christ to the Jews, particularly the chief priests and Pharisees. While they returned to their homes as night began to fall, Jesus turned His steps toward the Mount of Olives, where He often prayed to His Father and where He will return. Noticing a parallel in Haggai 1, David Grabbe explains that God wants His people to prioritize His work of salvation above their physical comforts and desires.
The Wavesheaf Offering (May 1, 2024)
Many in God's church know little about the wavesheaf offering, even though it represents one of the most significant acts of God's Plan: the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ! The day this offering was to be given is also the first day of the count to Pentecost, making it a significant time-marker for God's people. John Ritenbaugh explains the offering's relevance to us today.
Many in God's church know little about the wavesheaf offering, even though it represents one of the most significant acts of God's Plan: the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ! The day this offering was to be given is also the first day of the count to Pentecost, making it a significant time-marker for God's people. John Ritenbaugh explains the offering's relevance to us today.
Head 'Em Up and Move 'Em Out! (April 26, 2024)
Among the many doctrinal debates that cycle through the churches of God on a regular basis is the question of when the Passover should be kept, the fourteenth or the fifteenth of Abib/Nisan? Leviticus 23:5 reads plainly that Passover should be kept "on the fourteenth day of the first month at twilight." Does it matter as long as we keep it? Mike Ford shows how the logistics of Israel leaving Egypt prove that Passover should be kept on the 14th.
Among the many doctrinal debates that cycle through the churches of God on a regular basis is the question of when the Passover should be kept, the fourteenth or the fifteenth of Abib/Nisan? Leviticus 23:5 reads plainly that Passover should be kept "on the fourteenth day of the first month at twilight." Does it matter as long as we keep it? Mike Ford shows how the logistics of Israel leaving Egypt prove that Passover should be kept on the 14th.
I Am Barabbas (April 17, 2024)
Many, reading the accounts of Jesus Christ's trial and crucifixion, note the story of Barabbas, the criminal Pilate freed that Passover instead of Jesus. Some realize a few of the parallels between the two men and see Barabbas as an anti-Jesus, a sinner whom the people chose rather than the Savior. But the lesson of Barabbas goes much deeper, affecting us personally as sinners who received unmerited pardon through Christ.
Many, reading the accounts of Jesus Christ's trial and crucifixion, note the story of Barabbas, the criminal Pilate freed that Passover instead of Jesus. Some realize a few of the parallels between the two men and see Barabbas as an anti-Jesus, a sinner whom the people chose rather than the Savior. But the lesson of Barabbas goes much deeper, affecting us personally as sinners who received unmerited pardon through Christ.
Unsheathe Your Sword! (Part Two) (April 10, 2024)
Christ has consistently given each generation of the church the same message: "To him who overcomes." Only an overcomer, victor, or conqueror will become a child of God. As Paul reminds us, our battles are spiritual; that is, we must overcome our carnal human nature and begin to live the life of God. Pat Higgins provides some strategies to help us win our battles against the sinful habits that still lie within us.
Christ has consistently given each generation of the church the same message: "To him who overcomes." Only an overcomer, victor, or conqueror will become a child of God. As Paul reminds us, our battles are spiritual; that is, we must overcome our carnal human nature and begin to live the life of God. Pat Higgins provides some strategies to help us win our battles against the sinful habits that still lie within us.
Was Jesus Resurrected on Easter Sunday? (March 27, 2024)
Most people who claim to be Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on a Sunday, usually with a dawn service. Is this biblically accurate? Jesus Himself said He would be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Can that period of time be squeezed into a Friday sunset to Sunday dawn scenario? If we allow Scripture to define its terms and follow the clues, our Savior's resurrection cannot have happened on a Sunday!
Most people who claim to be Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on a Sunday, usually with a dawn service. Is this biblically accurate? Jesus Himself said He would be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Can that period of time be squeezed into a Friday sunset to Sunday dawn scenario? If we allow Scripture to define its terms and follow the clues, our Savior's resurrection cannot have happened on a Sunday!
Another Look at Footwashing (March 20, 2024)
Each year, members of God's church participate in a footwashing ritual during the Passover service. Most consider it a symbolic action to remind us of the need to serve one another as Christ served His disciples. However, Bill Keesee asserts that it means much more: Footwashing helps us to remember our need to forgive one another as Christ forgave us.
Each year, members of God's church participate in a footwashing ritual during the Passover service. Most consider it a symbolic action to remind us of the need to serve one another as Christ served His disciples. However, Bill Keesee asserts that it means much more: Footwashing helps us to remember our need to forgive one another as Christ forgave us.
Why Worship God? (March 13, 2024)
Worship is ingrained into human beings; it is almost as if we must worship something. So, why should we worship the God of the Bible rather than some other person or thing? What benefits does worship of the true God of Creation bring to those who worship Him? John Ritenbaugh provides three fundamental reasons why worship of the God of heaven and earth is necessary and beneficial to those who seek Him.
Worship is ingrained into human beings; it is almost as if we must worship something. So, why should we worship the God of the Bible rather than some other person or thing? What benefits does worship of the true God of Creation bring to those who worship Him? John Ritenbaugh provides three fundamental reasons why worship of the God of heaven and earth is necessary and beneficial to those who seek Him.
The Days of Our Lives (March 6, 2024)
Over the past several decades, people have been living longer lives. It appears, however, that longer lifespans correlate with more incidences of diminished mental capacity issues like dementia. This year, the American electorate will be choosing between two elderly candidates, one of whom already shows signs of mental lapses. Richard Ritenbaugh shows that God warns against old, foolish leaders who refuse to take counsel.
Over the past several decades, people have been living longer lives. It appears, however, that longer lifespans correlate with more incidences of diminished mental capacity issues like dementia. This year, the American electorate will be choosing between two elderly candidates, one of whom already shows signs of mental lapses. Richard Ritenbaugh shows that God warns against old, foolish leaders who refuse to take counsel.
The Seven Churches (Part Six): Thyatira (February 28, 2024)
Thyatira, the middle of the seven churches of Asia to whom Jesus Christ writes a letter, receives both praise and rebuke from our Savior. On the positive side, He commends them for significant works, love, service, faith, and patience. However, He also points out their sins: particularly sexual immorality and its spiritual counterpart, idolatry. Richard Ritenbaugh examines this detailed epistle to a church that seems half-in, half-out of the world.
Thyatira, the middle of the seven churches of Asia to whom Jesus Christ writes a letter, receives both praise and rebuke from our Savior. On the positive side, He commends them for significant works, love, service, faith, and patience. However, He also points out their sins: particularly sexual immorality and its spiritual counterpart, idolatry. Richard Ritenbaugh examines this detailed epistle to a church that seems half-in, half-out of the world.
The Prophesied Creation of Light (February 21, 2024)
Most Bible students consider God's Words to the Serpent in Genesis 3:15 to be Scripture's first prophecy, but the apostle Paul found one far earlier - in Genesis 1:3! "Let there be light," he asserts, looks forward to the creation of spiritual light in God's future children. Charles Whitaker dissects this idea, concluding that God's creation of light is ongoing in His elect, with the goal of their becoming light as He is light.
Most Bible students consider God's Words to the Serpent in Genesis 3:15 to be Scripture's first prophecy, but the apostle Paul found one far earlier - in Genesis 1:3! "Let there be light," he asserts, looks forward to the creation of spiritual light in God's future children. Charles Whitaker dissects this idea, concluding that God's creation of light is ongoing in His elect, with the goal of their becoming light as He is light.
Be My Valentine? (February 14, 2024)
February 14, Valentine's Day, may seem harmless enough — a day to celebrate romantic love — until the holiday's origins come to light. Not only is it a glorification of sex, but it also has its source in pagan fertility rites and the worship of the gods of many ancient nations. Mike Ford peels back the curtain that has shrouded the origins of this pagan holiday.
February 14, Valentine's Day, may seem harmless enough — a day to celebrate romantic love — until the holiday's origins come to light. Not only is it a glorification of sex, but it also has its source in pagan fertility rites and the worship of the gods of many ancient nations. Mike Ford peels back the curtain that has shrouded the origins of this pagan holiday.
Unsheathe Your Sword! (Part One) (February 7, 2024)
The New Testament describes Christians as soldiers at war against the adversary, Satan, the surrounding culture, and their carnal natures. The last battleground, human nature, is the primary one, on which we fight daily to overcome ingrained, sinful habits. The weapon of our warfare is the Word of God, "the sword of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:17). Pat Higgins shows how we can deploy our sword in the many battles we face during our converted lives.
The New Testament describes Christians as soldiers at war against the adversary, Satan, the surrounding culture, and their carnal natures. The last battleground, human nature, is the primary one, on which we fight daily to overcome ingrained, sinful habits. The weapon of our warfare is the Word of God, "the sword of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:17). Pat Higgins shows how we can deploy our sword in the many battles we face during our converted lives.
Little Things Count! (January 25, 2024)
When we look at ourselves against the backdrop of humanity, we can feel that we do not matter. We are just a number among billions. Yet, no one and no act is truly insignificant because of two natural principles: the natural tendency is to increase, and we reap what we sow. John Ritenbaugh shows that, concerning sin and righteousness, these principles play major roles in our personal lives and in the Body of Christ.
When we look at ourselves against the backdrop of humanity, we can feel that we do not matter. We are just a number among billions. Yet, no one and no act is truly insignificant because of two natural principles: the natural tendency is to increase, and we reap what we sow. John Ritenbaugh shows that, concerning sin and righteousness, these principles play major roles in our personal lives and in the Body of Christ.
Death by Debt (January 17, 2024)
Not long ago, America's economy stood as the envy of the world, and the nation spread its wealth all around the globe. It still leads the world in economic strength, but huge cracks of debt - now over $34 trillion - undermine its foundation. And government spending shows no sign of slowing anytime soon. Joseph Baity suggests that, though the United States has so far avoided economic catastrophe, the outlook is grim indeed.
Not long ago, America's economy stood as the envy of the world, and the nation spread its wealth all around the globe. It still leads the world in economic strength, but huge cracks of debt - now over $34 trillion - undermine its foundation. And government spending shows no sign of slowing anytime soon. Joseph Baity suggests that, though the United States has so far avoided economic catastrophe, the outlook is grim indeed.
The Seven Churches (Part Five): Pergamos (January 10, 2024)
The church members in Pergamos stood under Christ's judgment. While He commends them for holding fast to His name and not denying the faith, He finds fault with them for a few things: Some of them held to the doctrine of Balaam, and others followed the teachings of the Nicolaitans, both of which He hates. Richard Ritenbaugh examines the third letter to the seven churches, showing that we must also heed Christ's warning in it.
The church members in Pergamos stood under Christ's judgment. While He commends them for holding fast to His name and not denying the faith, He finds fault with them for a few things: Some of them held to the doctrine of Balaam, and others followed the teachings of the Nicolaitans, both of which He hates. Richard Ritenbaugh examines the third letter to the seven churches, showing that we must also heed Christ's warning in it.
1335 (Part Two) (January 4, 2024)
What prophetic principle should we be most concerned about? Is it knowing the timing of the fulfillment of certain prophecies? Is it putting prophetic events in the right order? The apostle Paul, writing to his protege, Timothy, suggests something far different: that we love Christ's appearing. Charles Whitaker takes a unique, spiritual perspective on the enigmatic 1,335 days mentioned in Daniel 12:12.
What prophetic principle should we be most concerned about? Is it knowing the timing of the fulfillment of certain prophecies? Is it putting prophetic events in the right order? The apostle Paul, writing to his protege, Timothy, suggests something far different: that we love Christ's appearing. Charles Whitaker takes a unique, spiritual perspective on the enigmatic 1,335 days mentioned in Daniel 12:12.