In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of a man who lived a worldly life, indulging in activities like gambling, dancing, and hunting. Despite hearing the call of Jesus to come and find rest, the man ignored it and continued his sinful ways. However, one night, when he was forty-five years old, he was struck with a severe pain that made him realize the consequences of his actions. In his anguish, he decided to plead for God's mercy, but hesitated because of the presence of a young maid. The preacher then challenges the audience to reflect on whether they are heroes or cowards in the eyes of heaven, emphasizing the importance of choosing God's praise over the praise of men. The sermon references John 12:42-43, which speaks about the fear of confessing Jesus due to the love of human praise. Ultimately, the preacher warns that gaining the whole world is meaningless if one loses their soul.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of developing a personal friendship with Christ, noting that many young Christians may trust Him as their Savior without truly knowing Him as a friend. He recounts a poignant experience with a young woman who, despite her devout life, realized for the first time the personal relationship she could have with Christ. Miller explains that recognizing Christ's presence and companionship can transform a believer's life, bringing comfort, joy, and a deeper understanding of faith. He encourages Christians to seek this intimate relationship, which can lighten burdens and enrich their spiritual journey. Ultimately, he asserts that having Christ as a close friend is essential to the Christian experience.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound truth that Christ dwells within the regenerate believer, as affirmed by Scripture. He highlights the unity of the Godhead in the life of a believer, where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit make their home in those who love and obey Christ. Tozer reflects on the historical belief of the Church regarding the dual nature of Christ as both fully God and fully man, a doctrine that has been foundational since the early Church. This indwelling presence of Christ transforms believers into true houses of God, embodying His essence and purpose. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding and appreciation of this divine relationship.

Andrew Murray expounds on John 15:5, illustrating the profound relationship between Christ as the vine and believers as branches. He emphasizes that this union is a divine act, where believers draw life and strength from Christ, and in turn, are called to bear fruit for His glory. Murray highlights the mutual dependence of the vine and branches, asserting that neither can fulfill their purpose without the other. He encourages believers to fully embrace their identity in Christ, recognizing that their existence is for the service of the vine, and that abiding in Him is essential for spiritual fruitfulness. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of this union, urging believers to rest in Christ's love and grace.

James Blaine Chapman emphasizes the importance of the Christian creed, stating that all true Christians believe in the creed, which has been preserved and promoted through the centuries by its doctrines. The Apostles' Creed, a brief and sufficient summary of Christian beliefs, has been accepted for sixteen centuries as the challenge for those who claim to be Christians. Chapman highlights that to be a Christian is not only to believe in the creed intellectually but also to encompass other factors that make one altogether a Christian.

F.B. Meyer shares a profound encounter on a train, discussing the limitations of imitating Christ versus experiencing His indwelling presence. He emphasizes that true religion is not merely imitation but a binding of the heart to the Lord, allowing Christ to live through us by the Holy Spirit. Meyer reflects on the transformative power of having Christ dwell within, enabling believers to express a life that mirrors His own. He concludes with the powerful truth that being joined to the Lord makes us one spirit with Him, highlighting the intimate relationship believers can have with Christ.

Daniel Steele emphasizes the importance of confessing Jesus as the complete and perfect Savior, rather than focusing on self-righteousness or personal achievements. He highlights the need to acknowledge Christ as the source of sanctification, peace, and joy, and to proclaim His greatness to the world. Steele underscores the significance of testifying to the indwelling presence of Christ in believers' lives, demonstrating His power to save and transform. He urges advanced believers to boldly declare the perfection of Christ as the ultimate Savior, worthy of eternal praise and adoration.

W.E. Best emphasizes the importance of understanding and aligning our thoughts on Christ's Eternal Sonship with God's thoughts, as revealed in the Scriptures. The confession that Jesus is the Son of God is a revelation from heaven, not merely a human understanding. Denying the Son of God is denying the Father, highlighting the essential nature of acknowledging Christ's divine Sonship. The eternal generation of the Son of God signifies equality and identity of nature with the Father, refuting any notion of inferiority of character. The Son of God, as the Firstborn Son, holds sovereignty, dignity, and heirship among many brethren, reflecting His eternal and unique position.

John Nelson Darby emphasizes in his sermon on 'Colossians 1' the significance of understanding our identity as risen with Christ, while navigating life in the world. He highlights that our walk should reflect our new life in Christ, filled with the knowledge of His will, and that we are called to express Christ in our daily lives. Darby points out the importance of patience and dependence on God's faithfulness as we face challenges, reminding us that Christ governs our hearts and motives. He encourages believers to recognize their fitness for heaven through Christ's work and to live in the light of God's love, which empowers us to walk worthy of the Lord. Ultimately, he calls for a deep consciousness of the efficacy of Christ's work in our lives.