Sermons and Biblical Studies

by Richard T. Ritenbaugh Forerunner, "Prophecy Watch," June 1994 In the succession of world-ruling empires envisaged by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, the second to appear is represented by a “chest and arms of silver” (Daniel 2:32). As we saw last month, both the metal and the body parts help to describe the nation referred to. … Continue reading “Nebuchadnezzar’s Image (Part Two): Chest and Arms of Silver”

by Staff Forerunner, June 1994 Why are we in God's church? Is it not because Someone requested our presence in the church by personally calling us out of this present world (John 6:44)? This Someone asks us to address Him, not as “Lord of heaven and earth,” “Supreme Commander of the heavenly hosts” or any … Continue reading “Focus on the Father”

by John O. Reid (1930-2016) Forerunner, June 1994 Having worked for thirty-seven years in the food service industry, I have traveled to places and done things I never could have done in many other professions. The travel had its obvious drawbacks, but meeting and working with some of the top people in the industry helped … Continue reading “Rivet Your Eyes on the Destination”

by Richard T. Ritenbaugh Forerunner, "Prophecy Watch," May 1994 The image seen by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon in a dream has always held a certain fascination to students of Bible prophecy. Daniel's interpretation of the symbolism only heightens their curiosity to know the corresponding empires and the significance, if any, it has on the time … Continue reading “Nebuchadnezzar’s Image (Part One): ‘Head of Gold’”

by Richard T. Ritenbaugh Forerunner, "Prophecy Watch," April 1994 Schism, strife, debate and chaos—hardly the words one would normally use to refer to religion. Unfortunately, such is the state of religion today. With such religious turmoil all around us, it is no wonder that the church of God internally reflects the world's problems. For instance, … Continue reading “Religious Confusion and You”

by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021) Forerunner, April 1994 “Because I go where the puck is going to be, not where it is.” That was Wayne Gretzky's answer to a reporter who asked him why he was such an exceptional hockey player. Gretzky, center for the Los Angeles Kings and the National Hockey League's all-time leading scorer … Continue reading “Staying With the Puck”

by Martin G. Collins Forerunner, "Ready Answer," April 1994 Can a weak and mortal man or woman influence God? Can we change His mind? Is it wrong to reason with Him? Contrary to many people's first reaction, God actually urges, “Come now, and let us reason together” (Isaiah 1:18). Abraham reasoned with God concerning the … Continue reading “Reasoning With God”

by Richard T. Ritenbaugh Forerunner, "Prophecy Watch," March 1994 Over the last few years, American news reports have chronicled the rapid decline of the former Soviet Union. Originally elated by the prospects of glasnost, the media's attitude soon turned to concern for the welfare of the people as inflation soared and commodities became scarce. After … Continue reading “Down But Not Out!”

by Mike Ford (1955-2021) Forerunner, March 1994 Imagine you are the logistics officer in charge of moving and supplying 2.5 million troops housed over a 450 square mile area. Your job is to gather them at a preset, central staging area, line them up by division and march them off. Of course, you also have … Continue reading “Head ‘Em Up and Move ‘Em Out!”

by Mark Schindler Forerunner, March 1994 Have you ever considered how you would live your life if you could relive it? A film with just this theme, Groundhog Day, gave one man this opportunity. Along the way, it illustrated some very interesting aspects of the development of character. It also helps us to see how … Continue reading “Serving Through Prayer”