In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a vision of Christ rather than just having ideas. He criticizes the preaching in the country today, stating that it lacks the true expression of Christ. The speaker questions why God often gives worldly success and riches to wicked individuals, highlighting that materialism is not valued by God. He also discusses the concept of holy ground and describes it as a spiritual condition of humbly walking with God and considering the world as a stranger. The speaker references biblical figures like Abraham and the apostles to illustrate the importance of living in poverty and persecution for the sake of magnifying God's grace.

This sermon by Corrie ten Boom emphasizes the role of Christians as overcomers and ambassadors for Christ in a world filled with tribulation and persecution. It highlights the importance of being prepared for the coming tribulation by feeding on the Word of God, developing a personal relationship with Jesus, and being filled with the Holy Spirit. Despite the fear and challenges, the message encourages believers to find strength in God's promises and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.

In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of glory in the foundation of the Christian faith. The New Testament reveals that glory is a central and governing factor in this dispensation. The faith of believers rests upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ as the chief cornerstone. The speaker also mentions the four relationships of glory in the New Testament, highlighting that the ultimate end for believers is to experience the glory of God.

In this sermon, the preacher focuses on 1 Corinthians chapter 4 and specifically discusses the judgment seat of Christ. He explains that when the Lord comes, there will be a judgment seat where hidden things of darkness will be brought to light and the counsels of the heart will be revealed. The preacher also mentions four important judgments in the New Testament, including the judgment of the believer's sins. He emphasizes the importance of being faithful stewards of the mysteries of God and warns against thinking beyond what is written in the Bible to avoid pride and division among believers.

This sermon delves into the concept of sin in different periods, highlighting the Church's struggle against the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. It emphasizes the need for churches to embrace the conviction of the Holy Ghost and confront sin, rather than being comfortable with it. The sermon also explores the importance of experiencing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, joy, and peace that surpass understanding, as exemplified by Jesus' teachings and actions.

This sermon highlights the unique spiritual strength and growth of the underground church in China, contrasting it with Western influences and denominational entanglements. It emphasizes the Chinese believers' deep reliance on the Holy Spirit for teaching and guidance, their sacrificial commitment to following Christ despite persecution, and their unwavering focus on Jesus alone, living in a constant state of faith and longing for His presence.

In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the victory that Christians can experience in the midst of adversity. He begins by referencing the fourth chapter of the First Epistle of Peter, emphasizing the Christian's victory in spite of difficulties. The preacher then shares a story about Dan Crawford and his experience crossing a flooded stream in Africa. Through prayer, God miraculously made a way for them to cross, illustrating the certainty of God's provision in times of adversity. The preacher concludes by highlighting the purpose of adversity in testing and purifying believers, comparing it to the process of casting a bell.

In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a meek and fearful attitude when facing persecution for the sake of Christ. He encourages believers to maintain a good conscience and conduct themselves in a way that brings glory to God, even when they are falsely accused. The preacher also highlights the example of Christ, who suffered in the flesh and calls believers to arm themselves with the same mindset. He reminds them that when they suffer for doing good, it is better to endure it according to God's will rather than for doing evil. The sermon also references Matthew chapter 5, specifically the Beatitudes, to remind believers that those who suffer for the name of Christ are blessed and will receive the spirit of glory and God's rest upon them.

Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound impact of betrayal in the Christian journey, particularly as it relates to persecution. He explains that betrayal, especially from those close to us, is not only painful but also transformative, drawing us closer to God and deepening our faith. Bickle encourages believers to prepare for future persecution by understanding its divine purpose and the spiritual growth it can foster. He highlights the importance of remembering Jesus' teachings on betrayal and responding with love and mercy, as exemplified by figures like David and Micah. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a generation of believers to embrace the challenges of betrayal as opportunities for spiritual maturity and to cultivate compassion for those who betray them.

Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the role of the prophet as one who is fully accepted by God yet often rejected by society. He argues that true prophets challenge complacency and call for repentance, often facing hostility for their uncompromising messages. Ravenhill laments the current lack of prophets in the church, highlighting the urgent need for voices that speak truth in a time of moral and spiritual decline. He calls for men of God who are selfless, dedicated, and willing to confront the status quo, urging the church to seek out these prophetic figures to lead them back to God. Ultimately, he stresses that the greatest famine today is not of food, but of hearing the Word of God.

The preacher delves into the meaning of 'rest' (anapauo) in the Bible, highlighting its significance in providing relief, refreshment, and intermission from toil. This rest can be physical, as seen in gaining relief from busyness, or spiritual, such as finding peace and comfort in Christ. The sermon emphasizes the rest believers can experience in the presence of the Holy Spirit, who helps them in times of suffering and persecution, giving them strength, endurance, and victory over evil. Through various Bible verses, the preacher illustrates how God's rest is available to those who trust in Him, even in the face of death or trials.

Historian Richard Riss delves into the misrepresentations surrounding revivals, emphasizing how false reports and negative attitudes hinder people from experiencing the forgiveness, love, and joy available through a move of God. Drawing from Jonathan Edwards and Charles Finney's experiences during the Great Awakening and Second Awakening, Riss highlights the common phenomenon of misunderstandings and opposition faced during times of revival. He explores the characteristics of revivals, including the rise against spiritual decline, conviction of sin, freedom and reconciliation, and the controversy and decline often witnessed during outpourings of God's Spirit.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the divine testimony of God's glory is central to the purpose of creation and the Church, as illustrated in Zechariah 4. He explains that throughout history, individuals and nations have been called to bear witness to God's glory, ultimately culminating in the Church, which must rely on the Holy Spirit to fulfill this mission. The sermon highlights that true glory is not achieved through human strength or power, but solely by the Spirit of God, which empowers believers to reflect His glory. Sparks encourages the Church to embrace its role as a vessel for God's glory, reminding that even in small beginnings, God's Spirit can accomplish great things. The message concludes with the assurance that the presence of the Holy Spirit is essential for the Church to be a true testimony of God's glory.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the crown of the incorruptible is glory, which is the ultimate verdict on the life of Jesus Christ. He explains that this glory is rooted in an unshakeable union with the Father, and that humanity was created for glory, which is contingent upon faith and obedience. The sermon highlights the contrast between the corruptible glory sought by man and the incorruptible glory offered through Christ, who embodies the perfect pattern of glory. Sparks encourages believers to live according to the incorruptible life of Christ, which leads to true glory both now and in eternity.

John Gill emphasizes the blessings of being reproached for the name of Christ, asserting that true happiness comes from bearing the name of Christians and enduring persecution for the Gospel's sake. He explains that despite the world's view, those who suffer for Christ are honored and comforted by the Spirit of God, which rests upon them, providing strength and joy amidst trials. Gill highlights that while the world may speak ill of believers, their faithfulness glorifies God, showcasing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Dr. Coke and Bishop Asbury faced challenges and opposition as they spread Methodism in America, encountering dissatisfaction and misconceptions among American brethren. Despite controversies over titles and authority, they worked diligently to establish Methodist societies and circuits, facing ridicule and persecution from those who misunderstood their mission. Revivals of religion, marked by powerful conversions and manifestations of the Holy Spirit, spread through Baltimore and Maryland, leading many to experience profound spiritual transformations. The Methodist preachers persevered through ignorance, opposition, and ridicule, continuing to preach the Gospel and establish Methodist churches in New England, where they faced resistance from established Congregationalist beliefs.

George Fox preaches to friends in prison and sufferers in the county, reminding them of the eternal power and peace they have in Christ Jesus. He encourages them to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that nothing can separate them from the love of God. Fox urges them to endure persecution for righteousness' sake, rejoicing in their reward in heaven and glorifying God in their sufferings.

In the sermon 'These all died in faith,' the preacher Martyrs of the Catacombs shares the inspiring stories of early Christians who faced persecution and death with unwavering faith and hope in Christ. Through exploring the catacombs, Marcellus learns about the strong faith and sacrificial love of these martyrs, finding comfort in the symbols and inscriptions that point to the resurrection and eternal life in Christ. The preacher emphasizes the importance of enduring tribulations with the assurance of Christ's victory and grace, encouraging listeners to find strength in the examples of those who faithfully gave their lives for the Gospel.

William MacDonald emphasizes that Christ is the sole gathering center for His people, urging believers to move away from earthly religious systems that dishonor Him. He explains that going to Christ outside the camp means leaving behind the prestige of traditional church associations and embracing the reproach that comes with true obedience. MacDonald challenges Christians to consider whether they are willing to bear this reproach for the sake of following Christ, who calls them out of the world and into a deeper relationship with Him.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the divine testimony of God's glory is the ultimate purpose behind creation and the Church's existence. He illustrates how this testimony has been passed through individual witnesses, Israel, and ultimately to the Church, which must rely on the Holy Spirit to display God's glory. Sparks highlights that true glory is not achieved through human effort but through the Spirit, as seen in the life of Jesus and the early Church. He encourages believers to embrace their role in glorifying God, even in small beginnings, and to recognize that the testimony of God's glory is a heart matter, requiring a willing spirit. The sermon concludes with the reminder that the Church's effectiveness in glorifying God hinges on the presence and work of the Holy Spirit.

T. Austin-Sparks concludes the 'Horizons' series by emphasizing the theme of glory in the Bible, highlighting how each Person of the Divine Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - is associated with glory as a descriptive designation. Glory is expressed through radiance, light, and splendor, often seen in the transformation of individuals and the Church. The basis of glory lies in the satisfaction of God's nature, reflecting His holiness, righteousness, truth, and love. The ultimate fulfillment of glory is found in Christ, who wholly satisfied God's nature through His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection, leading to the restoration of glory through redemption.

The preacher recounts a gruesome scene in ancient Rome where the thirst for blood drew over one hundred thousand people to the Coliseum, showcasing the brutal and cruel nature of the Roman civilization. Gladiators fought to the death, wild beasts were unleashed upon prisoners, and young Christian martyrs faced savage animals with unwavering faith and courage, choosing death over renouncing their beliefs. The story highlights the stark contrast between the cruelty of the Roman spectators and the unwavering faith and bravery of the Christian martyrs, who faced death with songs of praise and worship to God.

J.B. Galloway preaches about the period following the days of the apostles, focusing on the writings of the Apostolic Fathers like Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Polycarp. These early Christian writers served as a bridge between the apostolic era and the second century, emphasizing unity, holiness, and martyrdom. Clement of Rome's epistle to the Corinthians urges for holiness and unity, while Ignatius of Antioch's letters highlight sanctification, charity, and Christian perfection. Polycarp, a disciple of Saint John, exemplified unwavering faith and courage in martyrdom, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in the face of persecution.

T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the work of the ministry, focusing on the glory that comes from Christ's completed work and His glorification. Christ's humility, dependence, and voluntary acceptance of weakness and shame paved the way for His glorification, becoming the source and ground of glory for believers. The Mediator of glory, the Holy Spirit, rests upon believers, leading them on the pathway to glory through suffering and a faith-filled attitude towards trials.

Frank W. Boreham preaches on the blessedness of persecution, highlighting how those who are reviled and persecuted for the sake of Christ are privileged to see truths others may miss. He emphasizes that throughout history, sincere seekers of truth have been rewarded with divine revelations, willing to pay any price to possess the truth. Every martyr, ancient and modern, finds joy in suffering for the truth they hold dear, valuing it above all else. Persecution not only identifies believers with a triumphant brotherhood but also serves as the world's testimony to the purity of the Church.