Mike Riley Sermon Outlines, Articles, Lessons, etc.

Are We A Graduate Of Adversity?

History tells us that when a society becomes addicted to pleasure and luxury, it soon ceases to exist through self-destruction. Tribulation ensures our survival by helping to instill within us the qualities of

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Why Do We Drink So Sparingly?

The story is told of a small boy from a Chicago slum who was taken to the hospital with a broken leg. There were seven children in his family and their hunger often went unsatisfied. When such a commodity as a glass of milk could be afforded, it had to be shared by at least […]

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A Question Regarding “Strange Flesh”

A querist asks, In Jude 1:7 KJV, the passage refers to “strange flesh.” Can you please comment on what this phrase is referring to?

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Our Faith Must Be An Unwavering Faith

If we were ever invited to a meeting at the White House with the President, we would first encounter a protocol officer who would meet us and outline proper procedures for meeting

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“God Can Fix It!”

The story is told of a dear sister in Christ who one day passed away after a prolonged illness. On the table in the preacher’s home, were some pictures of the deceased — one of which was to be used for the

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“Supersize Our Understanding, Lord”

When we place our food order at a fast food restaurant, the cashier will sometimes ask us: “Would you like to supersize that?” In essence, they are asking us if we want more of what we are already getting.

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A Question Regarding Luke 14:26

A querist asks, “I’m puzzled about Christ’s requirement in Luke 14:26 to hate our families and even our own selves in order to be His disciple. Other passages in the New Testament

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Taking A Short Sabbatical

Because of my mother’s health problems and other pressing issues, I have decided to take a short sabbatical until the end of 2008.

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By What Authority?

In matters pertaining to religion, God has given Christ “all authority” (Matthew 28:18 – NKJV; cf. John 14:6 – NKJV; Acts 4:12 – NKJV). When the authority of Christ is ignored

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Are We Stepping Stones Or Stumbling Blocks?

The words of the following poem by an unknown author are simple, yet profound, teaching a biblical principle:

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Are We A “Settin' Hen” Type Of Christian?

Growing up on a farm, we had several settin’ hens. This hen goes around with her feathers all ruffled up with a terrible disposition. She never likes to be bothered by other chickens

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Let's Consider The Ant

The story is told of a man who placed a piece of cake on a table and put an ant on the cake. He was amused as he watched the little ant run off the cake, descend to the floor, and disappear in search of his friends.

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Of The Mind Of Mules And Men

The reason a mule balks at pulling a load, is not because he doesn’t hear the command “giddy up,” but simply because he would rather not hear it. His strength and ability to pull the load is more than sufficient, but his hearing the command to pull is hindered because he would rather

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Remembering Deeds Of Kindness

Wouldn’t this be a better world if all of us would remember the many kind deeds which others have selflessly bestowed on us instead of recalling every insult and perceived injustice? The following story is a powerful illustration of such a remembrance:

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A Superlative Love

The story is told of a tribe of Seneca Indians who lived along the Niagara River who had an annual tradition of making an offering of the fairest maiden of the tribe to propitiate the Spirit of Niagara Falls. On one occasion, the maiden chosen was the daughter of the chief, who was a

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Masters Or Victims?

We are either masters or victims of our attitudes. Who we are today is the result of the choices we made yesterday, and we will become tomorrow what we choose today. If we want to truly change, we’ll

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Don't Miss The 2:20 To Boston!

In his book, “See You At The Top,” Zig Ziglar tells the following humorous story: John Jones was in New York City. He wanted to go to Boston, so he went to the airport and bought a ticket. Having a few minutes to spare, he walked over to some scales, stepped on them, inserted a […]

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Jesus — The Learner-Disciple

As a Jewish boy, our Lord’s desire was to be in His Father’s temple listening to His Father’s teaching. When Jesus was 12 years of age, He went with His parents to Jerusalem

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Let's Not Burn Up God's House!

The story is told of a man who saw a house on fire while driving down the road. As he drew near the house, he saw a man sitting on an old couch surrounded by an assortment

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The Cure For Spiritual Ignorance

There’s no doubt that New Testament Christians are the most spiritually blessed people on the face of the earth (Ephesians 1:3). The church of our Lord has more highly educated members in the

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