Mike Riley Sermon Outlines, Articles, Lessons, etc.

Antipas – Who Was He?

A querist asks, “Is there any information on Antipas mentioned in Revelation 2:13?” According to tradition, Antipas, the martyr of the church in Pergamos in Revelation 2:13 KJV, was roasted in a brazen bowl at Domitian’s request.

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The Sinner's Prayer – Is It Of God, Or Of Men?

In Revelation 3:20, Jesus said, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me.” What a beautiful invitation and wonderful fellowship being offered by our Lord. And what a terrible misunderstanding some […]

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Can Christians Justify The Drinking Of Alcoholic Beverages?

Genesis 9:18-27 is the first recorded use of an alcoholic beverage by Noah. He used his knowledge of wine making for the purpose of growing a vineyard and producing it. From

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Should We Gauge Sermons By Their Results?

It is true that not all sermons are really good (based upon content, delivery, etc.). In fact, this writer (and sometimes preacher), has come to realize that even the best of sermons,

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Are We Justified By Any Works?

A querist asks, “Are we justfied by any works?” The Bible teaches that we cannot be justified before God by our own meritorious works

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In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 – “Who” Is Being Discussed?

A querist asks, “In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, who is being discussed here – all persons, good and bad, or is it only talking about those who are “in Jesus”?

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Can We Interpret The Scriptures For Ourselves?

A querist asks, “Does 2 Peter 1:20-21 mean that we cannot interpret the Scriptures for ourselves?”

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The Tower Of Babel – A Lesson For Unity!

In our present age, unity seems a laughable goal to the cynical. Even in the Lord’s church, division seems to surround us. But does this mean that God has asked something of His children, which cannot be achieved?

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“Antichrist” – A Specific Individual – Or An Ongoing Attitude?

According to sincere religious folks who believe in dispensationalism (a form of premillennialism), “The Antichrist” is a man, presently living, who will soon rise to the position of a world-wide dictator. In fact, Hal Lindsey believes that the Antichrist will come to power

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God Is Nearer Than We Think!

Many folks spend the entirety of their lives unsuccessfully “searching” for God by whatever means “they” determine, when He is not hiding from any of us. Quite the contrary, “The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18; cf. Deuteronomy 4:29).

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The “Sin Unto Death” – What Is It?

A querist asks, “Can you please clarify for me what John is referring to in 1 John 5:16 regarding a brother’s sin?”

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Taking Advantage Of Openings

In the account of the Ethiopian eunuch’s conversion to Christ by Philip the evangelist (Acts 8:27-39 – KJV), we see at least six remarkable “openings.” In this short study, let

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And The Lord God Prepared A Gourd

A few years ago, my wife and I had to put our Boston Terrier bulldog, Heidi to sleep because of old age. Heidi had been a part of our household for over 15 years — a

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The Great Need For Godly Mothers!

Sunday, May 8, is the day that the world has set aside to honor mothers who discharge their responsibilities toward their children with great love, wisdom, and devotion. Today, more than any time in history, our society needs the influence of godly mothers. This writer is thankful to God for both a mother and grandmother […]

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Apollos – “An Eloquent Man”

In Acts 18:24-28, we read of a Jewish Christian by the name of Apollos, born in the Egyptian seaport of Alexandria. According to the inspired writer, Luke, Apollos was “an

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What About Singing During The Lord's Supper?

A querist asks, “Is there any scriptural reason a congregation should not sing during the Lord’s Supper?”

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Winning The Battle Against All Odds

The ambush has proven to be one of the most successful war tactics ever devised. At God’s instruction, Joshua used this tactic with great success in the second attack on Ai

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What About Those Who Have Never Heard The Gospel?

A querist asks, “What about those who have never heard the gospel – is their fate the same as the disobedient?”

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Gay Or Odoriferous?

Today, in our politically correct and culturally imposed atmosphere, so-called “religious” leaders, who used to condemn sin, are now supporting immoral behavior. Sadly, adultery, fornication, and homosexuality have been upgraded to acceptable status by some

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Women’s Role In The Church

A querist asks, “My question is regarding that of leadership. There are churches that see nothing wrong in women’s role as a leader in the church. For example, women taking on the role of Sunday school

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