GBC Sunday Messages: Recent Episodes
Grace Bible Church - Hollidaysburg
Grace Bible Church in Hollidaysburg, PA strives to help people follow Jesus. The Bible guides us as we disciple others and demonstrate who God is and what He has done for us through Jesus.
The Christmas season is now in full force. It is a time of singing and joy. The carol we sang “What Child is This” was written in 1865 in England by William Chatterton Dix. That year William suffered a near-fatal sickness. This experience changed him completely. He experienced a spiritual awakening. He became an avid reader of the Bible and began to write hymns. He set the lyrics to this carol to the tune of “Greensleeves” a popular English folk song. The carol urges people to accept Christ. The word “laud” means to praise. One of the ways we praise Jesus is through songs. Mary went to visit her relative Elizabeth who had also been blessed with a conception miracle though different from Mary’s. God must have revealed the virgin conception to Elizabeth. (43-45) “But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” Mary broke into praise as the realization of was happening began to sink down into her soul. Mary did not actually sing as the Bible records that she “said” (46). The word means “to speak.” Mary’s praise became a canticle, a hymn or chant typically with a biblical text. This has been labeled as “The Magnificat” from the Latin word translated “exalts” (46). It is truly the expression of Mary’s heart. Her praise is filled with illusions and quotations from the Old Testament. Mary is a model believer whose gives us an example of biblical worship.Daren Ritchey
This morning we are seeing the angelic revelation to Joseph. God chose Matthew to reveal this account. This is Levi the tax collector. We saw that Luke’s Gospel was written with the Greeks in mind. Matthew’s Gospel was clearly written to convince the Jews that Jesus of Nazareth is the promised Messiah. Matthew’s Gospel is filled with references to the Old Testament which are given as proofs. That Jesus chose a former tax collector is itself astounding (18). The two key words are “after” and “before.” Joseph knew that he was not the father.Daren RitcheySERMON NOTES
We are beginning with Luke’s account of the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary of Nazareth. Luke wrote his Gospel around A.D. 60. He was not an Apostle or an early follower of Jesus. Luke was a companion of the Apostle Paul. Luke was a Greek. Luke is also the author of the book of Acts. Between Acts and his Gospel, Luke wrote 52 chapters, about 1/3 of the New Testament. Luke’s two volumes are the most complete overview of early Christianity. He begins with the birth of John the Baptist and ends in Acts with the Gospel going to the capital of the Roman Empire. Paul called him “the beloved physician,” Colossians 4:14, which indicate that Luke was an educated man.Daren Ritchey
Two men are chiefly responsible from a human perspective for the fact that we are gathered together today as a local gospel preaching church. Those men are the Apostle Peter and the Apostle Paul. The book of Acts can practically be divided between them. The first half is principally about Peter and the second half almost exclusively about Paul. As you move into the book of Acts Peter is again the predominant disciple. He preached the great sermon on the Day of Pentecost which began the church age. The foundation of Christianity is historical.
Daren Ritchey
The history of the church is the history of people most of whom remain anonymous. Such a person was Adam Wallace. Wallace was the parson of a church in Marbottle, Scotland. He was arrested in 1550 and brought to trial at Blackfriar’s Church in Edinburgh. Wallace was set before a large panel of priests, bishops, archbishops, professors and civil authorities. He looked like a simple and poor man when he was brought in. His accuser was a man named John Lauder who was dressed in a surplice, which is in the form of a white tunic, and a red hood. Lauder was Scotland’s Public Accuser of Heretics. The reformer John Knox wrote of Lauder’s extreme cruelty. Foxe’s Book of Martyrs tells what happened at Wallace’s trial. Lauder began, “Adam Wallace, you are accused of the following heresies. First, you have taught that the bread and wine on the altar are not the body and blood of Christ after consecration.” Wallace replied, “I never taught or said anything but what I found in this book, which is the Word of God.” Other such charges were brought forth. Wallace was condemned to burn to death and the sentence was carried out. As he stood tied to the stake he called out to the crowd, “Don’t be offended by my dying for the truth’s sake. The disciple is not greater than his Master.” There are many such unsung heroes of the faith that we will meet in heaven. Paul in Romans 16 names a number of people that we find nowhere else in the Bible. There are many unnamed people “of whom the world was not worthy”, Hebrews 11:35-38. Two of the early Christians that we do know much about are Barnabas and Saul. We are considering certain principles for every disciple of Jesus.
Teacher: Daren Ritchey
The Apostle John is the author of the Gospel of John. He states his purpose for this Gospel in John 20:31. John’s purpose is to prove this by bringing forward a number of witnesses beginning with John the Baptist. God had a distinct purpose for John’s life.
Daren Ritchey
Moses was God’s appointed leader for God’s appointed time. The book of Joshua begins with these words (1) “After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD...” Seventeen times Moses is called by this title. Moses has been the central figure from Exodus through Deuteronomy. Now God’s purpose for Moses was completed, Ecclesiastes 3:1. The word “season” means an appointed occasion. As there are seasons in nature there are seasons in life.
Gospel Shaped Mission - Titus 3 (Part 6 of 6)
Main Idea of Sermon: We must do good to others because of God's goodness to us.
Theme of Galatians: God's grace, revealed in the gospel, leads to godliness in the lives of His people.
The chief characteristic of Sardis was that it was a city given over to extreme decadence. Jesus makes no mention of persecution from without or heresy from within the church. Sardis was the church of the living dead. Daren Ritchey
Two characteristics of the vision of Jesus are particularly appropriate for this church. We saw in chapter 1 that brass symbolizes judgement. Jesus' penetrating omniscient gaze examines the church of Thyatira. Jesus reminds them that 'I am He who searches the minds and hearts'. In 1:13 Jesus is seen as 'one like the Son of Man'. This emphasizes Jesus' intercession as the God/man. Now Jesus identifies Himself as 'the Son of God'. This title expresses Jesus' deity and absolute authority. Jesus is a loving Savior and a holy judge. -Daren Ritchey
The letter begins with a focus upon judgment (12). The sword of Rome was the symbol of Roman power and authority. Jesus was reminding the Christians in Pergamum that He possesses all authority not Rome, the Emperor, or the proconsul, Matthew 28:18. Jesus knows the challenges that each of His disciples face (13). It is not certain what “Satan’s throne” was. It could possibly refer to the temple of Zeus. It may be the general fact that the city was given over to pagan worship. Satan is not omnipresent. It may also be a reference to the temple of Asklepios, the god of healing. Those seeking healing were placed in a room with harmless snakes covering the floor. They slept there in the dark as the snakes slithered over them giving healing powers. This pagan custom came from the old serpent himself, Satan. Note that Satan’s throne is not in hell, 1 Peter 5:8-9. Daren Ritchey
Special Guest: Vernon Brewer of World Help
Vernon Brewer is the founder and president of World Help, a faith-based humanitarian organization that serves the physical and spiritual needs of people in impoverished communities around the world.
Vernon is also the author of The Forgotten Children: Hungry. Hopeless. Running for their lives., Why? Answers to Weather the Storms of Life, Children of Hope: Be touched. Be inspired. Be changed., Defining Moments: A journey to the ends of the earth and back, and causelife: water equals life.
His incredible life experiences, combined with his passion for the unreached peoples of the world, make him an energetic and compassionate leader. His strategic thinking and emphasis on partnership has breathed new life into the mission world and provided innovative ways to partner together and accomplish more for the Kingdom of God.
"I wish that all Christians could see the world as I have seen it . . . to actually see firsthand the masses of hurting people, the hungry and orphaned children, the displaced families, the lepers, the poor, as well as experience the smells and sounds. But even more than that, I wish for you to see the world through the eyes of God."
Vernon has conducted international evangelistic campaigns and rallies in over 67 foreign countries worldwide, as well as numerous leadership training conferences in Uganda, China, India, Nepal, Myanmar, Romania, and Russia.
In addition, he has personally taken more than 4,000 people to the mission field. He has led over 500 local church evangelistic rallies, and has lectured on 30 college and university campuses. He has spoken to over 1 million teenagers in public high school assembly programs and is a frequent speaker at camps and conferences.
Vernon lives with his wife, Patty, in Forest, Virginia. He has four married children, three daughters and one son, and six grandsons.
Labor Day 2022………Where did the Summer Go?
Intro ~ For the majority of Americans tomorrow is a holiday, a three day weekend. A paid day off. Most don’t care what we are celebration, just that it’s a paid day of.
Labor Day ~ A celebration (which became a federal holiday in 1894) and appreciation for all the hard work put into growing our nation. And thankfulness for the unique rights and freedoms that we have as laborers here in the United States of America. So in the spirit of that definition.
The church in Smyrna is not found in the book of Acts or in the epistles. These verses contain the only biblical record of the church in Smyrna.
The deity of Jesus (8) “These things says the First and the Last” God applied this title to Himself in, Isaiah 44:6. Jesus is revealed taking on this title Himself. He is the eternal One who transcends time and space, Colossians 1:17. Jesus is the eternal “I AM”, John 8:58.
The humanity of Jesus (8) “...who was dead, and came to life” How could the eternal One die? Jesus took on humanity being born of a virgin. He died on the cross “for our sins according to the scriptures,” 1 Corinthians 15:3. Jesus was buried but resurrected on the third day. The threat of death at any moment hung over every Christian in Smyrna. This would have been a real encouragement to them.
Titus 2:11-15 The gospel reveals grace that both rescues us and empowers us. Bryan Kurty
The church of Ephesus was founded by the Apostle Paul on his 2nd missionary journey. It became the foremost church in the province of Asia, Acts 19:10. These seven letters were to be read to every church including the entire book of Revelation. These letters are the last recorded verbal message from the risen Jesus. They are for every church in every age. Each letter follows a basic pattern. Daren Ritchey
The word translated as “revelation” is where we get the English word apocalypse. It means to disclose, to unveil, to reveal. The human author is John the Apostle (1-2). The word “shortly” means suddenly. The word “signified” means to make known by signs and symbols. Revelation contains more symbols than any other New Testament book. The only book that specifically promises a blessing (3). This is the first of seven beatitudes in the book. Why would Jesus send an unintelligible message to seven local churches? The word “keep” means to take it to heart to obey. The word “time” is kairos meaning a period of time which is the time of the end which is imminent. The rapture of the church begins this time.
We are privileged to live in the land of the free. We acknowledge that many have given their lives to purchase this gift of liberty that we enjoy. American citizenship is a precious thing. Jesus and the Apostles lived in the time of the Roman Empire. Their experience of civil government was far different than ours. Even so the Apostle Paul at times took advantage of his Roman citizenship in Philippi and later in Jerusalem. Paul was eventually imprisoned in Caesarea for two years. When he stood before the judgment seat he appealed to Caesar as was his right as a Roman citizen. God used Paul’s citizenship to bring him to Rome to preach the Gospel. As Americans we have freedom of speech and freedom of religion.
Heaven is referred to in scripture more than 500 times. This morning we are first considering the reality of heaven and then the relevance of heaven. The reality of heaven John 14:2-3, “In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” Jesus taught that heaven is a real place.
Daren Ritchey
What we know about hell primarily comes from the lips of Jesus Himself. Matthew 5:22, “But whoever says, 'You fool!' shall be in danger of hell fire.” Jesus began His preaching ministry with the Sermon on the Mount making reference to hell. Jesus spoke on hell more than anyone else. Jesus taught more on hell than He did about heaven. The term “hell” needs some clarification. Twelve times in the New Testament Jesus uses the word “Gehenna” translated “hell.” Gehenna comes from the Valley of Hinnom which was a deep ravine south of Jerusalem where Israelites would sacrifice children. It became a garbage dump that burned continually. Jesus used it as illustration of the real hell. Jesus also used the term “Hades..” Matthew 16:18, “...I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”
On July 19, 2015, we dedicated our Vision 24:47 expansion project. That title comes from Luke 24:47. Because the mission of our church is missions namely the Great Commission. For the past seven years we have been able to expand our ministry in multiple ways with these facilities. This morning we are celebrating the fact that Vision 24:47 loan has been paid in full. We are actually celebrating God’s faithfulness in enabling us to do this. God is the source, but He uses His people as the resource. God has truly done great things for us. God did great things for David and for Israel. Our passage this morning reveals timeless truths.
God accomplishes His work through His people.
As David approached the end of his life, he had a desire to build the Temple in Jerusalem. God forbid David to do this (28:2-3). God ordained that Solomon would be the one to build the Temple (28:6). God did allow David to contribute and gather major portions of the materials to be used
God is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God is also seen as the Father of Creation. However, the universal fatherhood of God over all people is not taught in scripture. Jesus purposely healed a lame man on the Sabbath day to create a confrontation with the Jewish religious leaders. Religion is the attempt of people to gain entrance into heaven by their own good works. Jesus begins with the words “My Father” (17). The theme of this section is the unity of the Father and the Son.
Life is about choices and choices have consequences.
The Apostle Paul on his 2nd Missionary Journey left Antioch going north and west. Paul and Barnabas had a parting of the ways due to a disagreement over John Mark who had turned back from their First Missionary Journey. Paul now chose Silas to accompany him. Paul was retracing his steps from his first missionary journey but in the opposite direction. The Holy Spirit most likely led Paul to do this because there was a young man, he needed to meet in Lystra. That young man was Timothy, Acts 16:1.
Scripture: Titus 1:10-16 [part 3] Main Idea: Godly leaders who confront error are essential to the health of the church. Teacher: Bryan Kurty
Part 1: https://bit.ly/3Q6NkFJ Part 2: https://bit.ly/3Nn5fXa
Dr. Gary Habermas Distinguished Research Professor of Apologetics Liberty University School of Divinity
Gary Habermas has dedicated his professional life to the examination of the relevant historical, philosophical, and theological issues surrounding the death and resurrection of Jesus. He has also done extensive research on the Shroud of Turin and near death experiences.
The Christians Peter was writing to were experiencing persecution as well as attacks of the scoffers and false teachers. Peter writes to encourage them that the day of God’s justice will come. The scriptures of the Old and New Testaments will be fulfilled. Peter is focusing upon the final judgment of God upon this world (10). He is not here setting out a timeline. Other scriptures reveal more details concerning end time events. Some things are crystal clear such as the fact that Jesus is coming again bodily, physically displaying His glory.
Daren Ritchey
Peter is writing to true Christians not nominal Christians. Twice he addresses these Christians as “Beloved” (1) and (8). The word is agapetos a term of Christian endearment. He says they have “pure minds.” In light of this lingering threat Peter tells them what they need to keep in the forefront of their minds.
The Ascension of Jesus Christ forty days after His resurrection is of great significance. Jesus’ ascension is part of an early Christian creed that Paul quotes in 1 Timothy 3:16, “God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.” The resurrection and the ascension in the apostles’ preaching flowed together.
Daren Ritchey
Each of the Gospels gives a unique perspective on the historical fact of Jesus’ physical resurrection. A carefully crafted story manufactured by the Apostles would have never looked like this. Leon Morris, “The differences in the Gospels amount to no more than a demonstration that here we have the spontaneous evidence of witnesses, not the stereotyped repetition of an official story.” The entire superstructure of Christianity either stands or falls upon this historical fact. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is mentioned at least 104 times in the New Testament. It was the central theme of the preaching of the Apostles. It is no surprise then that Satan has continuously attacked the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Paul begins his outline of the Gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:3, “that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.” The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is essential for any person’s eternal salvation. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is central to God’s plan of salvation. The Jews executed people through stoning. God had determined that His Son would die by crucifixion; Psalm 22 & Psalm 69. All four Gospels reveal details of Jesus’ crucifixion. We cannot cover every aspect in a message.
All four Gospels record Judas’ betrayal. His name always appears last in the lists of the Apostles except for Acts 1 where he is not mentioned. There are 40 verses in the New Testament in which there is a reference to his betrayal of Jesus.
Paul Davis, President of ABWE International, delivers a message focused on sharing the gospel all around the globe.
What do I mean by the continuing ministry of Jesus? Didn’t Jesus cry out from the cross “It is finished”, John 19:30. Jesus Christ’s work of redemption was completed. The ministry of Jesus begun in the Gospel of Luke is continuing into the book of Acts and beyond. Daren Ritchey
Why do we support national and international missionaries and mission agencies? Is there biblical precedent for missions? Some have suggested that is the wrong outlook. Rather we should view it as “the missional basis of the Bible.” “The reason God revealed Himself to us in His Word was that we might know Him and make Him known.” What is a Christian missionary? One definition I read is “A missionary is someone who never gets used to the sound of pagan footsteps on their way to a Christless eternity.”
Luke 7:36-50
An Unexpected Invitation The Pharisees were a religious and political party in Jesus’ day. They were seen as the keepers of the Law and the oral traditions of the elders. They believed that they earned God’s favor by keeping primarily their manmade rules. Luke 18:9, “who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others.”
Daren Ritchey
Grace is God’s kindness and undeserved favor, so grace in and of itself is not dangerous. However, God’s offer of grace is not limitless. It is dangerous to scorn God’s grace. Grace despised brings judgment deserved.
Why did the people of Judah rebel against the LORD? Teacher: Daren Ritchey
Psalm 62 was written by King David. It is not clear what the circumstances were in David’s life when he penned this Psalm. It is possible it was during his son Absalom’s rebellion. Verses 3 & 4 indicate that David was under some type of personal attack. The Lord is capable of handling my situation I am not. (1) “Truly my soul silently waits for God” Daren Ritchey
Intro: Next Sunday in just a few hours from now it is estimated that between 96.4 million to114 million people will be settling in to watch that glorious spiritual event called the Super Bowl. Many prayers will be offered up on behalf of both the Cincinnati Bengals and the Los Angeles Rams for Super Bowl 56. For some believers will be the most praying they have done all year. Many of you have been spun and bounced around and taken some pretty hard hits lately. Enough to make anyone’s head spin. On top of all of life’s difficulties
Lou Hileman
In order to be reminded of the importance of discipleship we are going to look at the Discipleship Directive given by Jesus to His eleven disciples. We will be focused upon three words. Invitation—Initiation—Obligation. The word “disciple” means a learner or a follower. The word “disciple” and the word “Christian” are synonymous. The goal of discipleship is to follow Jesus in all of life and to lead others to do the same.
Series: Obeying the New Commandment Message: The Disciple's Identity [#1] Daren Ritchey Date: January 9, 2022
'Faithing' the Future | Daren Ritchey | 01-02-2022 by Grace Bible Church - Hollidaysburg
Sermon Title: 'The Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ'
Scripture: Luke 1:26-38
The central point in the celebration of Christmas is the virgin birth of Jesus Christ (30-31).
It is worth noting that the angel Gabriel was the one who spoke to Daniel of the coming of “Messiah the Prince” (Daniel 9:25). When we speak of the Virgin Birth, we need to understand that it is a virginal conception. Jesus’ birth was natural even though we most often refer to it as the Virgin Birth. This is an important distinction to make. The humanity of Jesus is at the forefront in His first advent. He veiled His glory, Philippians 2:8, “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself…”
The Bible reveals that Messiah’s earthly rule is to be realized in the future.
The child to be born, the son to be given would sit on David’s throne.
Isaiah could not see the time gap between the two advents of the Messiah. He expected that when Messiah would be born, he would grow up and rule over the kingdom of Israel.
The Old Testament scriptures abound with anticipation of the coming of the Messiah of Israel. The existence and fulfillment of prophecy in and of itself is miraculous evidence of His identity. The prophet Isaiah often writes of both advents of Christ in one context. Isaiah forces the coming of the Messiah.
Scripture Text: Isaiah 9:1-6
Scripture: Titus 1:5-9 Main Idea: Leaders in the church must be shaped by the gospel in all of life. Teacher: Bryan Kurty
Paul placed a high value on personal face-to-face ministry (5-7). Note the phrase “if the Lord permits.” Paul’s life was always subject to the Lord’s leading. He was currently having an effective ministry in Ephesus (9). The open door signified the opportunity to preach the Gospel. God directs through open and closed doors. Paul’s ministry in Ephesus caused the Gospel to be spread throughout the Roman province of Asia (Acts 19:26). Paul’s preaching caused a riot in the city. Satan will bring opposition when his kingdom is threatened. Ministry on any level is challenging and requires commitment.
Daren Ritchey
This chapter has so far been dealing with Christians who die and will be raised at the coming of the Lord Jesus. Last Sunday Pastor Lou spoke on Paul’s answer to the question (35) “How are the dead raised?” Our perishable earthly body will be resurrected an imperishable eternal body.
Our current bodies are created for existence on earth; our eternal bodies will be created for existence in the new heavens and new earth. (50) “Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption.”
Paul is not contradicting his earlier teaching. He is not saying that a body cannot inherit the kingdom but that a merely physical body cannot. He is not saying that only the immaterial will be in the kingdom. Paul taught the Corinthians that their physical bodies cannot inhabit heaven. There was another question which remained unanswered.
Daren Ritchey
What happened to Jesus after His death? The Bible unequivocally declares that Jesus has risen. Paul has declared “that Christ died…was buried…rose again…. was seen” meaning He appeared (3-5). Last Sunday Pastor Bryan showed how the gospel gives us death-defying hope because Christ has been raised from the dead. Jesus was crucified because He claimed to be God which was blasphemy to the Jews. Jesus’ resurrection is the divine verification that Jesus was not a blasphemer but indeed the Son of God. Romans 1:4, “declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.”
Jesus’ bodily resurrection from the dead provides the key to His identity and the meaning of His death. Paul has been showing what it means if Jesus was not raised from the dead. He is now doing an about-face declaring the fact of Jesus’ bodily resurrection.
Daren Ritchey
Our God is a God of order not chaos. He instructs us in clarity and not confusion. One of the biggest problems in America today is that individuals and families are leading extremely chaotic and confusing lives causing them to battle anxiety and depression on a regular basis. 1st Corinthians 14:26-40 the apostle Paul addressed the problem of chaos in the church.
Lou Hileman
Chapters 11-14 concern “Disorders in Public Worship.” Paul wrote this section of his letter to the church in Corinth to correct their chaotic assemblies and their carnal attitudes. Much of the problem centered on their confusion about spiritual gifts. Some believe that all of the spiritual gifts in their fullness are in operation today. We have consistently taught that some of the gifts in all their fullness were temporary. We see these as sign gifts that authenticated the apostolic ministry and the Gospel of Christ. These gifts were foundational to the beginning of the church, 2 Corinthians 12:12. The gift of Apostle ended with Paul. The gift of immediate, absolute and undeniable healing as exercised by Peter in Acts 3 is not in evidence today. Paul who had the gift of healings did not exercise it toward the end of his ministry, 2 Timothy 4:20.
Love is indispensable to the body of Christ. This is the love that describes God. The word for “love” is agape. This is God’s own description of Himself, 1 John 4:16, “God is love. This is a self-sacrificing love modeled by God Himself, John 3:16. This is primarily a love of volition rather than emotion. The Corinthian Christians were not displaying this love. This love is a servant of our will not a victim of our emotions, Matthew 5:44, “love your enemies.” Jesus is not commanding emotion but action. Spiritual gifts were present in the Corinthian congregation, but true spiritual love was absent.
A spiritual gift is not a natural talent but one’s gift works in concert with one’s talents. The ability to sing on key is not a spiritual gift but a natural talent. The ministry of the Holy Spirit brings unity to the body of Christ. The Corinthians were mistaking uniformity for unity.
Diversity is essential to unity in a local congregation of believers.
Paul uses the metaphor of the human body to illustrate this truth to the Christians at Corinth (12). Many different parts make up a human body, but they do not diminish the body’s basic unity. It is clear that Paul is not giving an anatomy lesson.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Main Idea: God's Spirit shows up through all of God's people for the good of God's Church Teacher: Bryan Kurty
Is it possible to do the right thing the wrong way? Absolutely 100% YES As a matter of fact we do it more often than we think.
Since the beginning of the church, it was customary for believers to eat together (Acts 2:42, 46) It was an opportunity for fellowship and for sharing with those who were less privileged. No doubt they culminated this meal by observing the Lord’s Supper. They called this meal “the love feast” since its main emphasis was showing love for the saints by sharing with one another. Paul was telling the church at Corinth that they were taking a beautiful ordinance of the church and turning it into a horrible occasion.
Lou Hileman
The interpretive key to unlock this passage concerning Christian worship is the Gospel of Christ.
Paul has been applying the Gospel to the issues in Corinth throughout this letter. He has brought the Gospel to bear on their divisiveness, their sexual immorality, their marriages, Christian freedom etc. Now he deals with a specific issue of impropriety in the Corinthian assembly. Paul begins by establishing the principle of authority and submission
Scripture: 10:14 - 11:1
It is important that we remind ourselves of a very important reality. It is not that you as a congregation are under the scriptures proclaimed by a man. Rather the man and the congregation are under the scriptures proclaimed by God.
Daren Ritchey
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Teacher: Daren Ritchey
Main Idea: External privileges don't exempt us from condemnation if we are choosing to follow sin rather than Jesus.
Intro: Is it possible to learn a good lesson from a bad example? We have been learning that chapters 8-10 are about Christian freedom. Pastor Lou has shown in chapter 8 that the exercise of my Christian freedom must always be determined by brotherly love. Paul then showed the application of that principle with his own example in chapter 9. Last Sunday Pastor Bryan presented the principle in chapter 9 that Christian freedom enables us to prioritize the gospel for the spiritual good of others. Now Paul is going to focus on how the exercise of Christian freedom impacts our own lives. Paul gives the example of the children of Israel in the Exodus and wilderness wandering. The last verse of chapter 9 is the connecting link to what Paul is about to focus on. Bible scholars and pastors take two views on what Paul means by “disqualified.” One view says that Paul is talking about service not salvation. The context shows that Paul is warning against apostasy. Apostasy involves knowing the truth, appearing to live the truth but turning away from it. Paul uses the same word in 2 Corinthians 13:5-6.
1 Corinthians 9:19-27
Main Idea: Christian freedom enables us to prioritize the gospel for the spiritual good of others.
Bryan Kurty
The exercise of my Christian freedom must always be determined by brotherly love. Paul ends the chapter with this bold statement. (8:13) “Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” There are times that we must limit our liberty for the sake of others. This verse transitions to the next section in Paul’s letter, chapter 9.
Chapter 8 through 10 deals with the church’s questions about meat offered to idols. This was a serious problem for them, especially since the church was composed of both Jews and Gentiles, and the Jewish believers were anxious to avoid any contact with heathen idolatry.
The situation was this; most of the meat in Corinth was slaughtered at the temples. The Priest kept part of the meat, but the rest was used for private feast or sold in the markets. In fact, sacrificial meat was top quality meat sold at a discount price on the market. This made the meat very attractive to poor Christians. But would eating this meat defile the Christian?
Lou Hileman
One of the common criticisms of the Bible is its irrelevancy. Many believe that science has proven this to be an irreconcilable fact. One of the popular TV shows is Young Shelton which is a prequel to the Big Bang Theory. Shelton is a child protégée who continually expresses the fact that he does not believe in God. The show presents his Christian mother as a bit of a religious kook. The pastor of her church, Pastor Jeff, is a cross between Howdy Duty and Kermit the Frog who always ends up playing the part of the buffoon. What comes through in this and many other shows and movies is the writers’ antichristian bias. The sophisticated intelligent people believe in science and live in the real world. Christians who believe in Creation rely on fairytales. We have been showing through these messages the absolute relevancy of scripture. The Bible speaks to real life issues whether in 1st Century Corinth or 21st Century Hollidaysburg. Psalm 119:160, “The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.”
Daren Ritchey
The Apostles lived in the time of the Roman Empire. Their experience of civil government was far different than ours. Even so the Apostle Paul at times took advantage of his Roman citizenship. As Americans we have freedom of speech and freedom of religion. Like Paul we are to use these freedoms to proclaim the Gospel of Christ. The New Testament presents the fact that as Christians we have dual citizenship, Philippians 3:20.
For some reason, the church doesn’t often talk about sex. Almost like it’s a taboo subject. Which is interesting, because it seems that everyone but the church is talking about it. Or if the church does talk about it, it’s only in a negative context of what you shouldn’t do. But the Bible treats sex much differently. Sex is God’s thing. He created it, so he knows it best. He knows what it’s for and what it’s not for. And He knows what perversions we need to watch out for. We’ll talk about some of those perversions today, because that’s where the text goes. But I want you to remember that the perversions only exist because there is something to pervert. There is beauty and grace in God-glorifying sex, which is why we must fight to have the right view of sex and our bodies. Sex is a good gift, but it makes a terrible god. Here’s the main idea for today’s text: we glorify God in our bodies when we flee from sexual sin.
The reality of a person’s salvation is revealed by their lifestyle (9). The word “inherit” literally means “to be an heir to.” The kingdom of God refers to the spiritual realm of salvation to which believers belong in Jesus Christ. Jesus said “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God”, John 3:3. Paul says of Christians that we are “heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ”, Romans 8:17. We enter the kingdom of God at the moment of salvation, Colossians 1:13-14, Paul is making it clear that the unbeliever does not belong to the kingdom of God. The application is obvious. Why do you believers keep living like the unsaved? Paul describes Christians as new creations, 2 Corinthians 5:17. The verb “have become” is in the perfect tense which indicates a past action with continuing present results.
A member of the Corinthian congregation was involved in an incestuous relationship with his step-mother. The Bible is more a book about reality than religion. God is not just the God of the ideal but of the real. Church life just like family life gets messy. The Corinthian Christians would have been very comfortable living in the 21st Century. Like them many Christians today basically do what they want to do whether it is scriptural or not. Sexual sin is a constant issue.
Paul opens his heart in these verses which is the summary conclusion to these first four chapters. If you refer to the General Outline we gave you this section deals with division in the church. Last Sunday Pastor Lou showed how Paul gave the examples of a steward and a spectacle in describing his ministry. He now reminds the Corinthian believers that he is there spiritual father.
What is your profile for a Pastor? 1. Theologically ~ Brilliant 2. Prayer ~ Warrior 3. Speaker ~ Gifted 4. Availability ~ 24/7 (8 days a week) Bonus: Handsome In 1 Corinthians Chap. 3, Paul presented three pictures of the local church. Now he presents three pictures of the minister. We will cover the first two this morning. 1. A Steward - (1 Cor.4:1-6) 2. A Spectacle - (1 Cor. 4:7-13) 3. A Father - (1 Cor. 4:14-21)
We saw the issue which Paul addresses is the fact that the Corinthian Christians were acting like people who do not have the Holy Spirit. This is how he defines carnal believers. They were spiritual in that they had the Holy Spirit and were saved people. Verse 9 is a transition verse. Paul now changes his metaphor from that of a field to that of a building. (9) “For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building.”
To truly live the Christian life is not an endeavor for cowards. As opposed to what the world believes the Christian life is not easy. There are many ways in which the believer’s life is far more demanding than it was before salvation. As a Christian we are opposed by three powerful forces; the world, the flesh and the devil. At birth we inherit the fallen nature of Adam. When we are born again the old nature is dethroned but it is not destroyed. The tendency to evil remains. The Holy Spirit compels me in the opposite direction from the world. Worldliness is an orientation, a way of thinking and believing. Satan knows how to tempt us according to our sinful desires in concert with the world’s influence. Harry Ironside, “Many a Christian’s life is made up of mingled victories and defeats.” This was certainly the case with the Christians in the church of Corinth.
1 Corinthians 3:1-9 Daren Ritchey
Sermon Title: Spiritual Realities
Who are the spiritual people? What is a cruciform gospel? Who understands the mystery? And what role does the Spirit play in all of this? We’ll seek to answer these questions and unpack some intense spiritual realities as we continue our series in 1 Corinthians this week.
1 Corinthians 2:1-16 Main Idea: God’s people understand God’s wisdom because they have God’s Spirit. Bryan Kurty
Paul from the beginning began to address the key overall issue in the church. That issue was disunity. They like us were struggling how to navigate their Christian lives against the influence of their culture. One key issue was and is the indoctrination of the world’s wisdom. Notice the repetition of the word “wisdom” in these verses. The Greek word translated “wisdom” is sophia. The Greeks were in love with human wisdom. The word philosophy is “the love of wisdom.” Paul is contrasting man’s wisdom and God’s wisdom.
Focus Text: 1 Corinthians 1:17-31 Daren Ritchey
Paul’s message to the Church of Corinth is particularly relevant for us today. Our culture in many ways mirrors the Greek/Roman culture of Corinth. Products from all over the world came to Corinth. If you wanted it, you could get it in Corinth. The two great Greek athletic festivals were held in Corinth, the Olympian, and the Isthmian games.
Corinth was famous for its decadence. The immorality was extreme even in the pagan world of the Roman Empire. In classical Greek, the word corinthiazesthai meant “to behave like a Corinthian.” This was the name for gross immorality and drunken debauchery. Corinth had a high place called the acropolis rising 1875 feet above the city. It held the temple of Aphrodite, the goddess of love (sex). It contained about 1,000 priestesses who were ritual prostitutes.
The church of Corinth is similar in many ways to our church. The believers would have been prosperous for the most part. We as a congregation have certainly been materially blessed. We are a gifted congregation with many of you faithfully exercising your spiritual gifts and talents. The Corinthian Christians struggled with being in the world but not of the world. God led Paul to establish a church in this city on his 2nd Missionary Journey. Chapters 1-6 contain Paul’s rebuke for the sinful conditions in the church. Chapters 7-16 Paul is replying to specific questions. There was overall a spirit of division in the congregation which Paul will first address.
Daren Ritchey
There are five recorded appearances of Jesus on the first resurrection Sunday. He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, then to other women, also to Peter, as well as the two disciples on the road to Emmaus and to a group of disciples minus Thomas. It is these last two appearances that we are considering today.
Daren Ritchey
Scripture: John 20:19-31
Last Sunday we referred to the fact that Jesus’ anointing at Bethany by Mary marked the end of the Last Months period of Jesus’ ministry. This event marks the beginning of the Last Week of Jesus’ ministry. The church has traditionally referred to this event as Palm Sunday. It is the commemoration of Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem. It is also titled as “The Triumphal Entry.” Many people celebrate this day as a religious tradition but have no real understanding of the meaning of the events of that day. John Piper has called this “an event of insight and misunderstanding.” Jesus was hailed as the Messiah, Son of David, and savior of Israel on Sunday. How was it that not even a week later on Friday the Jews in Jerusalem were calling for His crucifixion? Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent of the charges they brought against Him. He knew that they had delivered Jesus to him because of envy. Pilate tried to keep from condemning Jesus to death by crucifixion. His own wife warned him not to have anything to do with Jesus. Yet the mob incited by the religious leaders demanded that Pilate condemn him. They played the ultimate political card. John 19:12, “From then on Pilate sought to release Him, but the Jews cried out, saying, ‘If you let this Man go, you are not Caesar's friend. Whoever makes himself a king speaks against Caesar.’” Pilate like so many people over these past 2,000 years tried to wash his hands of Jesus.
Scripture: John 12: 9-19
These are people who had come to comfort Mary over the death of her brother. When they saw Lazarus walk out of the grave alive, they believed in Jesus. Where you see belief there is always the accompanying unbelief. As a result, the Sanhedrin called an emergency session. Their jealousy and selfishness blinded them to see that Jesus was indeed their Messiah and the Son of God. They were not judging on the basis of what was right but what was expedient.
Focus Scripture: John 11:45-12:8
Isaiah's Gospel
In a few weeks, we will celebrate Easter Sunday focusing upon the resurrection of Jesus. Before the resurrection was the crucifixion. The Gospel, 1 Corinthians 15:1-3 is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Historically these events took place around 30 AD. God revealed the Gospel to Isaiah some 700 years before the cross. All of the verbs from verse 1 to the first part of verse 10 are in the past tense and all of the pronouns are plural. In one sense it expresses the fact that God viewed this from eternity as already happening in time. It also is an expression of what the redeemed nation of Israel will one day say about their Messiah.
Scripture: Isaiah 53
The return of Jesus Christ is a major theme of the New Testament. It was promised at Jesus’ ascension. Acts 1:11, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” Paul mentions it again in 1 Corinthians 15:23, “But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ's at His coming.” He spoke of Jesus’ return to the church of Philippi. “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” Philippians 3:20. He also referred to it in Colossians 3:4, “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” Paul writing to the church in Thessalonica emphasized the coming of the Lord Jesus.
Focus Scripture: Revelation 3:7-13
The prophecy of Daniel is to be preserved. The idea being expressed here is not to keep the revelation secret. A sealed text was not to be tampered with or changed in any way. God is the ultimate preserver of scripture. The inspiration of God’s word includes preservation. Isaiah 40:8, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” The preservation of the book of Daniel is in a specific framework “until the time of the end.” The context shows that the future generation living during the tribulation is in mind here.
Daniel 12:4-13
Daren Ritchey
Jesus’ resurrection guarantees our resurrection, 1 Corinthians 15:20, The early church had some of the same questions we have. 1 Corinthians 15:35, “How are the dead raised up? And with what body do they come?” Paul goes on to explain in the same chapter some of the characteristics of our resurrected bodies. They will be “raised in incorruption…glory…power…a spiritual body.” Our current bodies can only function in the natural realm. Our eternal glorified bodies will be suited to dwell in God’s presence and His new creation.
Daniel 12:2-3
We saw last time the unfulfilled prophecy of the coming Antichrist (11:36-45). From Daniel’s point of view he could not see the gap of time in the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy. Even from our time this fulfillment is yet in the future at some point. How all the unfulfilled prophecy will play out we cannot know until it occurs. We do know that our world is headed for the very worst of times. Our world is headed for an unprecedented time of trouble.
Scripture: Daniel 12
Studying the Bible is a little bit like being a detective. We look at a passage as a whole. We consider the individual aspects. We compare the passage to its immediate and overall context. We make certain deductions based on our previous knowledge of relevant scriptures. We also can refer to secondary sources such as commentaries, books or sermons along with historical data. Godly men and women have been studying the Bible for centuries. The New Testament has been completed for over 2,000 years. There are certainly different interpretations of difficult passages but if it’s new it isn’t true and if it’s true it isn’t new. The plain things are the main things and the main things are the plain things.
Scripture: Daniel 11:36-45 Daren Ritchey
The first verse of chapter 11 appears to be the last verse of chapter 10. “Also, in the first year of Darius the Mede, I, even I, stood up to confirm and strengthen him.)” This angel, possibly Gabriel, encouraged Darius, who is most likely Cyrus to allow the Jews to return to Judah. It could also mean that the angel stood by Michael in the spiritual conflict with the demon over Medo-Persia. (2) “And now I will tell you the truth.” This is an emphatic truth claim. What the angel is going to tell Daniel will be a supernatural revelation of truth. It is the level of detail that fits the history which creates a problem for the skeptics. Christians view this as a confirmation of the divine inspiration of the book of Daniel. Verses 2-35 are fulfilled prophecy. This is a prophecy that has become history. It is the history of the kingdoms of Persia, Greece, Egypt, and Syria. Most of the prophecy will concentrate on Egypt and Syria. The details of the prophecy are leading up to Antiochus Epiphanes who we saw in Daniel 8.
Focus Scripture: Daniel 11: 1-35 Daren Ritchey
The book of Daniel reveals that there is another world beyond this one. Chapter 10 begins the final section of Daniel. This chapter records Daniel’s preparation to receive his final prophecy. Chapter 11 is basically the contents of the prophecy which covers the same time frame as Chapter 8. Chapter 12 is primarily the epilogue to the book. Daniel as usual gives us the timeframe of this vision (1). About 42,000 Jews had chosen to return to Judah. They were opposed and harassed and the work on the Temple came to a halt. This was likely the reason for Daniel’s mourning and fasting
Scripture: Daniel 10:1-21
Is the current State of Israel significant to Bible prophecy? Some would say an emphatic no. They would say that God’s dealings with Israel ended with the crucifixion of their Messiah, Jesus Christ. Scripture says they are wrong.
Focus Scripture: Daniel 9:20-27
Daniel: 9:1-19 | The Prayer of Daniel
We are privileged to listen in on Daniel as he prays to the Lord (1-19). The second part of Daniel 9 contains some of the most controversial verses in all of scripture. They are known as “The Seventy Weeks Prophecy.” Chapter 5 records the fall of Babylon to the Medo-Persian army. With the fall of Babylon Daniel must have wondered what would be the future of his real home, Jerusalem.
Joshua 1:1
Keep the past in the proper perspective. God never wastes words or makes mistakes. He was telling Joshua exactly what Israel needed to learn. Moses’ contribution continues but his day was over.
Daren Ritchey
God’s love is much richer and greater than man’s concept of love. We see this in John’s Gospel. John has been called “The Apostle of love.” John is the most unique of the four Gospels. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptics from a Greek word meaning “to see together”. They follow the same general outline of the life of Christ.
John’s approach is different. About 90% of the material in John’s Gospel is not found in the Synoptic Gospels. Pastor Daren Ritchey
Luke 2:1-7.
Luke records the birth of Jesus in just seven verses.
(1:4) “that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.”
Luke is writing history not mythology. One of the most remarkable things about the birth narrative is that on the surface it is unremarkable. He shows that the birth of Jesus was in real-time and in a real place.
The time and the place of Jesus’ birth were ordained by God.
Pastor Daren Ritchey
The Insignificant / Significant Shepherds Luke 2:8-19 Daren Ritchey We have seen that God seems to delight in using unlikely people in unlikely places. We see this again with Luke’s account of the angelic announcement to the shepherds.
Sermon Title: Mary of Nazareth Focus Scripture: Luke 1:26-28 This morning we are considering Mary in what is often called the Annunciation.
Titus:1-14
”How do we live as Christians in a dishonest, harsh, selfish culture? How can we survive without adopting those attitudes? How can we live the good life in this situation? These are the questions the letter of Titus addresses, and these are the questions we need help with each day as we seek to live a gospel-changed life in a society that seeks change and finds truth in many places, but so rarely in the gospel.” - Tim Chester
Sermon Title: Unmasked Love Focus Scripture: Romans 12:9-18 By: Daren Ritchey November 22, 2020
Daniel: Antiochus Epiphanes Focus Scripture: 8:1-27 Series: Daniel: Living Contrary to Culture Pastor Daren Ritchey
Message Title: Daniel: The Law of the Medes and Persians Focus Scripture: Daniel 6:1-17 NKJV Pastor Daren Ritchey
Focus Scripture: Daniel 4:1-17
Daniel chapter 4 is one of the most unusual and amazing chapters in the entire Bible. There is no sweeping prophetic revelation as we have seen and will see in Daniel. This is the only chapter in the entire Bible that has been authorized by a pagan king. This is the personal testimony of the most powerful man in the known world at that time in history. It is a remarkable evidence of the grace of God displayed through the life king Nebuchadnezzar. At times we meet people who from our human perspective are unsavable. I made that word up. Theologically we know that God can save anyone who comes to Him by faith in His Son the Lord Jesus. Yet in our human viewpoint we see a person who is so wicked that we don’t really believe that they could be saved one day. Had we lived in Daniel’s time I suspect that Nebuchadnezzar would have been one of those persons. God however dealt with him and chapter 4 is his personal testimony.
Daniel, Living Contrary to Culture
Message #5 – Trial by Fire (3:1-49
We will be considering Daniel chapter 3 the story of the fiery furnace. For those of us familiar with scripture our challenge with this chapter is familiarity. Try to imagine you are hearing the story for the first time and you don’t know the outcome until the end. This account has a very contemporary application to our lives today.
Daniel, Living Contrary to Culture
Message #4 – The Times of the Gentiles (2:24-49)
On Sunday we will see the first thing that Daniel did when the Lord revealed to him Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and its interpretation. He immediately asked that the wise men of Babylon not be killed. Daniel recognized that people are made in the image of God and are therefore of intrinsic value. Daniel disagreed with their worldview but he recognized their right to life. This is an example of true tolerance. At this critical time in our country we need to follow Daniel’s example especially within our own congregation. Do not assume that everyone at Grace Bible is of the same political persuasion. We are united by Christ not by our political affiliations. We need to be gracious with those we disagree with especially during this current season. We need to be careful about what we communicate through social media. We need to heed the words of the Apostle Paul. Colossians 4:6, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
Daniel, Living Contrary to Culture Message #3 – Divine Revelation
The scripture reading is Daniel 2:1-12
This Sunday we will be moving into Daniel 2 in our series Daniel, Living Contrary to Culture. This chapter introduces the subject of prophecy. It also highlights the reality of divine revelation. Our materialistic culture believes that we live in a closed system. They reject the possibility of a transcendent God Who stands outside of the universe. Daniel shows us an example of the importance of prayer. He learns firsthand that God is also imminent and involved in His creation and in the lives of His creatures. The book of Daniel shows us how God’s revelation has been communicated to us in language and inscripturated in the Bible. The God Who is there has spoken and we have His inspired revelation.
Daniel gives us the example of the fact that there will be times when we need to draw a line that we will not pass over. Any Christian who is going to live for Jesus will have to establish certain lines of demarcation between us and the culture.
The book of Daniel can show us how to be in the culture but not of the culture and how to be a witness to the culture. Daniel and his friends stayed true to their faith in God while maintaining a public witness for Him.
We can either waste the time of our lives or we can invest our lives in eternal things. Psalm 90 Daren Ritchey
Our purpose this week is threefold. We want to encourage believers to take heart. We want to challenge Christians to stand. We want to warn unbelievers to flee to Jesus.
Christian Missionary Josef Gabor provides an update on the work his organization is doing in Slovakia.
Does the Bible have anything to say in the face of this Coronavirus pandemic? Can the Coronavirus be reconciled with the existence of a loving God?
Romans 8
This is a passage about the death of a believer. We know that Paul faced the prospect of death on a daily basis. Paul was like a soldier on the front lines for whom the possibility of death is an ever-present reality. Paul’s attitude was not one of morose fatalism or debilitating fear. Philippians 1:21, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
The Church of Jesus Christ in America needs to pray for a spiritual Awakening not a cultural “Awokening”.
Main Passage: 1 John 2:3-11 ESV
What does it take to make you sure of something? Evidence? Confirmation? Personal experience? A drive-through order read back to you for approval? What about being assured that you have eternal life? We just raised the level of the discussion, but that’s quite possibly the most important question that you can answer in this life. In our text today, John wants us to be assured that we have eternal life. He wants us to know that we are in Christ. He wants us to be sure.
“At what point shall we expect the approach of danger? By what means shall we fortify against it?-- Shall we expect some transatlantic military giant, to step the Ocean, and crush us at a blow? Never!--All the armies of Europe, Asia and Africa combined, with all the treasure of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest; with a Bonaparte for a commander, could not by force, take a drink from the Ohio, or make a track on the Blue Ridge, in a trial of a thousand years. At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer, if it ever reach us, it must spring up amongst us. It cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of freemen, we must live through all time, or die by suicide.” Abraham Lincoln What in America is going on? Are there really people who want to destroy this nation? Do you feel at times that you are losing your country? Do you know that people are rewriting our history? Do you understand that there is an ongoing struggle between ideologies? Have you perceived that Christianity is under attack? Do you realize that our freedoms are hanging in the balance? One of the primary contemporary ideologies is social justice. We need to understand what true justice is and we need to understand the ideology underlying the contemporary social justice movement. Thankfully we have an infallible source of truth, the Word of God.
Our remembrance of Jesus submitting to His Father’s will by going to the cross should motivate us to submit to one another as we gather for worship.
Jesus the eternal I AM speaks across time to every generation. The details of our current crisis are different, but the applications are the same.
Scripture Verse: Lamentations 3 Pastor Daren Ritchey We have no need to worry about tomorrow. The problem is that in our human nature we want to feel that we can handle today and whatever comes tomorrow. New mercies for tomorrow are given tomorrow.
Contrary to what is often presented in our culture Christianity has had an amazing positive impact upon women. A new era dawned for womanhood with the coming of Jesus. The fact that He was born of a woman, God in the flesh, elevated not just Mary but all women. Jesus by His own example exalted women. This week we are considering the mother and grand-mother of a young man named Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:1-7.
Questions
- God, why don’t you care about what’s happening?
- God, why do you remain silent while wickedness prevails?
- God, how can we trust you when there is injustice all around us?
Main Idea God calls us to trust him even when we don’t understand what’s going on. Habakkuk who? • Very little is known about him • Lived alongside of Zephaniah and Jeremiah • Likely prophesied about 10-20 years before the Babylonian invasions of Judah that began in 605 B.C. which resulted in the eventual fall of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. • The book consists of three short chapters (56 verses in the ESV) • Basically a shortened form of Job, echoing some of the same themes • Like Job, Habakkuk questions God’s justice, but in the end they both realize that God is sovereign and his justice is far above anything they can comprehend
God accomplishes great things through great adversity. Scripture Source: 1 Kings 17:1-16
Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection occurred somewhere around A.D. 30. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians at A.D. 55. That is 25 years from the cross. The earliest source for Alexander’s death is 300 plus years later. Paul was writing to them what he had said to them when he first came to Corinth. Scholars put that at A.D. 51. Paul says that he gave them “which I also received.” When and from whom did Paul receive this message which is the heart of Christianity? All New Testament scholars both liberal and conservative agree that Paul received this material about A.D.35. Paul was saved in about A.D. 32. He says in Galatians 1:16-19 that he then went to Arabia for three years and then went to Jerusalem, A.D. 35. He was there for 15 days and met with James and Peter. Galatians 1:18, “Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter and remained with him fifteen days.” The word “see” is the Greek word historeesai. It means to interview so as to acquire truth. The book of Galatians is about defending the Gospel. Surely that is what they talked about.
Knowing how God works through providence can be a source of comfort when we face hardship and sorrow. We don’t know in this immediate crisis what the weeks and months are going to bring. It is likely that this will be one of the most momentous events in many of our lifetimes. There is no reason to live in paralyzing fear because we know that God is in control.
The Providence of God [Daren Ritchey] | Mar. 22, 2020 by Grace Bible Church - Hollidaysburg
Pastor Bryan shares the Gospel Paradox and how we are to live in these times of uncertainty, fear, anger and anxiety.
Mark 14:12-26 Lord willing in six weeks we will be celebrating the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday. We will be looking at the events of the last days of Jesus on earth as we move toward Easter. This morning we are starting with events leading up to and including the last night of Jesus’ earthly ministry. The events of that night occurred in an upper room somewhere in Jerusalem. Two of Jesus’ disciples were sent to prepare for the last official Passover celebration (12-16). The religious leaders are looking for a way to kill Jesus. Judas has gone to them to arrange to betray Jesus. What better place to trap Jesus than in an upper room in the city? Jesus sent Peter and John, Luke 22:8, to prepare for the Passover meal. The other disciples would not know the location until they arrived. This occurred on the Thursday before what is known as Good Friday. Good Friday is a reference to the day Jesus was crucified. There is apparent confusion in a comparison of the Gospel accounts concerning this Passover. Historical records reveal that the Jews who were from Galilee in the north marked the Passover day from sunrise to sunrise. Jesus and His disciples were mostly Galileans. The Judean Jews from Jerusalem and the south marked the Passover day from sunset to sunset. This reveals how Jesus could celebrate the Passover on Thursday night and yet be crucified at 3:00 PM on Friday when the Judean Jews were slaughtering their lambs in the Temple for their Passover. Both celebrations were authorized and legitimate at this time. Jesus and His disciples gathered in the evening to celebrate the Passover.
Genesis 2:15-25 ❖ The divine design of the family is under attack (18). God commanded Adam (20) to name the animals as an object lesson. One aspect of being in God’s image is that man was created for relationships. God was showing Adam that there was not another living being on earth like him. Adam and Eve did not evolve out of the animal kingdom. They were created by God as mature complete male and female human beings. God formed Adam from “the dust of the ground” (2:7). God formed Eve from the flesh and bone of Adam. Note the phrase “and He brought her to the man” (22). The LORD God performed the first marriage ceremony. Marriage is the good creation of God. ➢ Social contract theory is attempting to redefine marriage and family. Jesus Himself upheld the biblical definition of marriage, Matthew 19:4-6. People who have rejected the belief in a Creator believe that marriage is the result of cultural evolution. Social structures and sexual differences are not ordained by God but are inventions of the human will. Since they were invented by man they can be reinvented by man. ▪ The basic tenet of social contract theory is that no human being can have an obligation to which they have not consented.
We are in the midst of a series on worldviews. We have been learning the elements of a Christian worldview. We are also considering some of the characteristic of the secular worldviews of our day. We will have teachers and professors who will tell you that your convictions and beliefs are based upon faith not facts. They will then claim that their views are based upon facts and reason. This is the great deception. There is no such thing as an unbiased theory. Every worldview is based upon an ultimate premise. Those who embrace evolution believe in a materialistic universe with no ultimate purpose. Time plus chance plus impersonal forces have produced the world we live in. This cannot be proven by science and human reason is not infallible. Therefore those who hold that view hold it by faith. We will see today that all such theories contain both religious and philosophical assumptions. The claim that their ideas are fact based while Christianity is only faith based is simply not true.
Genesis 1:26-31 (2/2/2020)
Two weeks ago we considered the Christian Worldview concerning human life. I ended that message with this statement. The bodily Incarnation, Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus and the believer’s promised bodily transformation declare the sanctity of human life. We are more than our body but we are not less than our body, Genesis 1:26-27. We saw how the Gnostics in the 1st century taught a dualism between the body and the spirit. The material world including one’s body was evil. What one did with the body had no impact upon the spiritual. Scripture reveals that Adam and Eve were created in God’s image which included both body and soul. Materialism based upon the theory of evolution teaches that matter is without meaning or purpose. Evolution has taken hold because it claims to do away with the biblical God. If there is no God there is no universal morality, guilt or accountability. Francis Schaeffer, “And our view of final reality—whether it is material-energy, shaped by impersonal chance, or the living God and Creator—will determine our position on every crucial issue we face today.”
Focus Passage: John 6:5-12
As we look at the story of the “Feeding of the 5,000” we must be reminded that up until and including this point in Jesus ministry He was increasing in popularity. In spite of the opposition of religious leaders the crowds had grown to great numbers.
The story of the “Feeding of the 5,000” is far more about Faith than it is about Food. Although we are called as individuals and as a church to help those in our community this story is not primarily about the feeding but the Faith involved.
Last Sunday we began a new series on “A Christian Worldview.” A worldview is a framework from which we view reality and make sense of life and the world. A worldview is not just a private personal viewpoint. It is the way we understand and interpret the world around us as well as how we apply this view to life. The predominant worldviews of our current culture are wreaking havoc in our society and destroying lives. Del Tackett, “Nonbiblical worldview ideas don’t just sit in a book somewhere waiting for people to examine them. They bombard us constantly from television, film, music, newspapers, magazines, books and academia.” Added to these is the onslaught of social media and the worldwide web. This also involves the people in our circle of influence. C.S. Lewis, “The Christian and the Materialist hold different beliefs about the universe. They can’t both be right. The one who is wrong will act in a way which simply doesn’t fit the real universe.” We said that ideas have consequences. Nowhere have these fragmented worldviews of our culture had a more tragic impact than in regard to human life issues. Nancy Pearcey says, “As Christian parents, pastors, teachers, and youth group leaders, we constantly see young people pulled down by the undertow of powerful cultural trends. If all we give them is a ‘heart’ religion, it will not be strong enough to counter the lure of attractive but dangerous ideas….Training young people to develop a Christian mind is no longer an option; it is part of their necessary survival equipment.”
We look around our world and especially within our own culture and wonder what in the world is happening? We can see that a great spiritual battle is raging on all fronts for the hearts and minds of men and women. We find ourselves in the middle of a cosmic struggle between truth and a morally indifferent culture. Many Christians find it increasingly difficult to understand clearly how their faith should be impacting all aspects of life. A nationwide survey conducted by the Barna Research Group determined that only 4% of Americans had a “biblical” worldview. In the same survey only 9% of “born again” believers answered yes to questions like “Do absolute moral truths exist?” “Is God the all-powerful and all-knowing Creator of the universe, and does He still rule today?” “Did Jesus Christ live a sinless life?” “Is Satan real?” The things that are happening in culture and in much of the church are worldview issues.
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 11:23-34 In the early church it is apparent that the observance of communion included an actual meal. The believers would eat together which became known as the Agape or Love Feast (17-22). They would then worship using the bread and the cup. This was following the Lord’s example (25) “after supper”. We must always distinguish between what is described in the Bible and what prescribed in the Bible. The observance of the bread and the cup are commanded. Paul calls this observance “the Lord’s Supper” (20), “the Lord’s Table (1 Corinthians 10:21), and “communion” (1 Corinthians 10:16). It is called by some the Eucharist from the Greek word translated “when He had given thanks” (24). Most conservative Bible scholars believe that Paul wrote 1 Corinthians before any of the Gospels were written. This then is the earliest teaching on the Lord’s institution of Communion. The communion service is outlined by three perspectives that are especially relevant this morning. The passing of another year causes many of us to look back to the past, reevaluate in the present and hopefully make preparations for the future. These three perspectives are outlined for us in this passage concerning the observance of communion.
The command Jesus spoke more than any other was “Fear not.” Jesus does not want His disciples to be living with insecurity especially in regard to their personal salvation. Some believe that we cannot have the assurance of salvation. This primarily comes from an unbiblical view of salvation. The belief that salvation is based upon works results in never being sure if I have done enough to earn it. God in His Word reveals that assurance is possible and even commanded. 2 Peter 1:10, “Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.”
The Bible does not say that they were three in number, were kings and rode camels. The designation “wise men” is the Greek word magos. The better English rendering is “magi” from which we get our word magician. What can be known about them comes from the Old Testament and historical records. We need to remind ourselves that we are not dealing with superstition but with real history. The magi were an ancient priestly tribe of people from among the Medes. The magi were masters of astrology and astronomy.
John presents a fascinating account of the life of Jesus. In chapter 5, we find Jesus making some unimaginable claims which create a critical turning point in John's Gospel and have huge ramifications for us today.
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We began this series by considering Jesus’ words to Nicodemus in John 3 that “you must be born again.” We saw that this is the doctrine of regeneration which speaks of new life. We then looked at the doctrine of justification. This speaks of our new standing before a holy God. We also referenced the doctrine of imputation. The Greek word is logizomai which is an accounting term. It means “to apply to one’s account.” In justification a double imputation occurs. 2 Corinthians 5:21, “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Our great debt of sin was put on Jesus’ account and Jesus’ righteousness was put on our account. Before salvation we were the living dead. (1) “And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins” Paul is describing the condition of all of the unsaved. They are dead spiritually. They possess no spiritual life. They are separated from God. They can do nothing to please God. Isaiah 64:6, “But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags.” This describes our self-righteousness. What must our sins appear to be before a holy God? The dead do not need resuscitation but resurrection. The living dead are dominated by the world, the devil and the flesh. (2-3) “in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.” Three forces encourage the unsaved in their disobedience to God. They are dominated by the values and attitudes of the world system, the culture. They believe the lies of Satan the father of lies. Evolution and atheism are among the devil’s most potent deceptions. The unsaved are deceived because they are depraved. The doctrine of total depravity means that human nature is thoroughly corrupted and sinful as a result of the fall in Genesis 3. Their actions are sinful because their appetites are sinful. The unsaved are dominated, depraved and doomed. (3) “…and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.” We have seen that the unsaved are under the condemnation of God, John 3:18 & Romans 3:19. God however is staying the execution of the sentence upon all mankind because He is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance”, 2 Peter 3:9. At the moment of salvation we are given new life.
The Church of the Open Door [Daren Ritchey] | Nov. 17, 2019 by Grace Bible Church - Hollidaysburg
Last Sunday we looked at Jesus’ words to Nicodemus in John 3 that “you must be born again.” We saw that this is the doctrine of regeneration. Regeneration is a sovereign work of God totally apart from human effort. When the Gospel is proclaimed the Holy Spirit gives life and faith is awakened in the heart of the spiritually dead sinner. Believing is a consequence of the new birth. That believing faith brings the sinner into union with the Son of God. Paul gives proof (9-20) of what Jesus revealed in John 3:18, “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” Everyone outside of Christ is under the condemnation of God. (19) “...every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.” No person based upon their own merit will able to defend themselves before God. How is it possible for sinful men and women to be united to a Holy God?
When you hear the term, 'born again' what do you think of? What exactly does the term 'born again' mean? The answer to that question is critical when considering this question. The first person in scripture who used the term was Jesus Christ. It is significant to understand who Jesus was talking to at the time. Bible Passage: John 3:1-21
To download a PDF of the message notes, click here > http://bit.ly/36ddMXq The concept of community comes from the word koinonia. The most common English translation found in scripture is “fellowship.” There are a few other common translations of koinonia in its different grammatical forms and depending upon which translation one is using. In the NKJV it is translated as “communion, contribution, partners, partakers, companions and communication.” Fellowship in its most basic form is a relationship not an activity (3). We have been learning that we as believers share a common life through the indwelling Holy Spirit. This is the central idea of fellowship, Acts 2:41-42. This is the first appearance of the word “fellowship” (koinonia) in the N.T. On the day of Pentecost God sent the baptism of Holy Spirit to form His church. When Peter preached his sermon 3,000 people were saved, baptized and added to the church. The fact that Luke included “fellowship” here reveals that this must be more than socializing. The central idea of fellowship is that we share a common life in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” Fellowship means sharing together in the sense of communion 2 Corinthians 13:14. Those first Christians at Pentecost were Jews who had come “from every nation under heaven”, Acts 2:5. When they trusted in Christ for salvation they were baptized and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. As they began to learn from the Apostles’ teaching they began to experience a common spiritual life together namely “fellowship”, Acts 2:42.
Fellowship (koinonia) means that we are in union and communion with God and one another (3). One of Paul’s favorite expressions is “in Christ.” As Christians we are in vital union with Him. 1 Corinthians 1:9, “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” The main thrust of this verse is our union with God, the objective fact. This means that we share Christ’s life (6-7). The “one another” here is in reference to our fellowship with God not other believers. John is focusing upon our union with Christ more than our communion with Him. Note that John says we walk “in the light” not “according to” the light. That would require sinless perfection and make it impossible for us to have fellowship with God. John makes it clear that he is not talking about perfection (8 & 10). To walk “in” the light means that we are open and responsive to the light as it illuminates our lives exposing our sin which we can then confess (9). Union comes before communion, Colossians 2:6-7. All believers share the very life of Christ Himself. This is why Jesus used the vine and branch metaphor, John 15:4.
Union with Christ and with Christians is not merely association 1 Corinthians 1:9. Going to church and being baptized do not in and of themselves mean that we are joined to Christ. It is possible to be associated with the church but never to have been born again and indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
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Only a true Christian can offer him or herself in a supreme act of worship. Paul in the first eleven chapters has explained “the mercies of God” in saving sinners by His grace, Romans 3:23-25. This is a commitment that can only be made after one’s salvation.
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Church membership is implied by Paul’s imagery of the body (27). Paul is the only one who uses the imagery of the church as a body. It has no Old Testament equivalent. This emphasizes our unique position in Christ as New Testament Christians. Paul wrote this to a local church. 1 Corinthians 1:2, “To the church of God which is at Corinth...” This imagery makes no sense if Paul was only speaking of the universal or invisible church consisting of all Christians everywhere.
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Ephesians 1:22-23, “And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.” Jesus spoke of the church as a future reality. Matthew 16:15-17, “…And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” This passage is not about the supremacy of Peter but the supremacy of Jesus Christ as revealed in Peter’s confession. The church has been built upon Peter’s confession not Peter’s person. Jesus was not referring to building buildings but building people. The church was birthed on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2 with the coming of the Holy Spirit. It was established through the preaching of the apostles and prophets.
We are responsible to manage what belongs to God not us. This means that when we give to Gospel causes, we are simply giving back to God what belongs to Him in the first place.
Are things more important to me than people? My desire for money can negatively impact my family and my relationships. Am I collecting more things and finding less fulfillment? Things do not bring lasting contentment. Am I compromising my integrity to gain more things? The love of money will exert a powerful influence on my life. Am I seeking to find through money what only Jesus can provide?
Last Sunday and saw that Jesus is the only infallible financial advisor. Jesus is not teaching buying or giving one’s way into heaven as some believe. Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus alone, Romans 6:23
A financial planner is a person employed to manage the personal finances of clients. I would like to commend to you the wisest financial counselor of all. His name is Jesus. Jesus does not give counsel based on what might happen but on what will happen. Many Christians set up a false dichotomy separating the material from the spiritual. This is especially true in the area of personal finances. Jesus never viewed that kind of division in the lives of His followers. The commitment to follow Jesus is a commitment to follow Him in all of life. That is certainly the implication of the scriptural title of “Lord” applied to Jesus, John 13:13 & Luke 6:46. Obedience is always the mark of the true disciple of Jesus. If Jesus is truly Lord of my life, then He is Lord of my wealth. There is a fundamental connection between our spiritual lives and our material possessions. We are beginning in Matthew’s Gospel in which Jesus talks about money 109 times. Jesus spoke about money 57 times in Mark, 94 times in Luke, and 88 times in John.
Labor Day historically was a celebration of the American work ethic. Many of the original immigrants to America brought with them a very strong work ethic. This was the result of the influence f Christianity in Europe particularly that of the Reformation. Protestants, beginning with Martin Luther, began to view worldly work as a duty which benefits both the individual and society as a whole. MarLabor Day historically was a celebration of the American work ethic.
One of the keys to living a Christian life in our increasing pagan culture is to have a firm foundation. Jesus illustrated this in Matthew 7:24. The foolish person built their house on shifting sand which was destroyed when the storms came. Jesus wasn’t referring to building a house but building one’s life. In this chapter James writes about trials that come from without and temptations that come from within. He is not writing about becoming a Christian but living as a Christian. In this series we are focusing on the trials that assail us.
Main Passage: 2 Corinthians 1:3-6 Pastor Daren Ritchey preaches his third message in our series, "The School of Suffering"
2 Corinthians 12:1-10 The experience of Paul in this passage illustrates the paradox of pain and suffering in the life of the believer. We saw last Sunday the process of suffering in Romans 5. God has invested our pain with purpose. As a Christian suffering is never just a random event of the subject of chance. Whatever occurs in our lives is within the providence of our loving Heavenly Father.
Dr. Bill Shade shows how prophet Isaiah foretold not just who Jesus would be, but how he would be the harbinger of judgement.
New Hearts - Jeremiah 31:30-34 [Bryan Kurty] | July 14, 2019 by Grace Bible Church - Hollidaysburg
It's always good to bring a fresh mind and perspective as we gather for communion. In his message this week, Pastor Bryan reminds us, when we gather at the Lord's table... Look to the cross... Look around... Look ahead... Look inward > then back to the cross.
God doesn't make some people more important than others. In fact, we are all equal in His eyes. He does give us unique gifts and talents that are to be used to build up His church. Do you know what your gift is? How are you helping others with your gift?
Why do we come together to celebrate communion? How has what God has done for us changed about who we know ourselves to be?
Has God forgotten to be gracious? I know that on the surface we may think, "of course not, He's God!". But how many times while we are in the midst of suffering and going through hard times do we feel like God has abandoned us? Pastor Bryan Kurty shares some Good News and shows a the biblical way to Lament.
Missionary Tom Huckel from Hananeel Ministries joins us this morning to share his perspective on the place of modern Israel in prophecy.
When you don’t know what God wants you to do, do what you know God wants you to do. Acts 16:6-15
The Evidence of Salvation [Daren Ritchey] | May 5, 2019 by Grace Bible Church - Hollidaysburg