Art Katz emphasizes the profound significance of Israel's suffering as a means to reveal the true church and the true God to the nations. He highlights that only the righteous are willing to suffer for others, particularly for Israel, who is both a suffering servant and a reflection of Christ's own sacrifice. Katz calls for a deeper understanding of God's purposes through suffering, urging the church to identify with Israel and participate in their journey. He warns against reducing the church's calling to mere programs, advocating instead for a prophetic and apostolic stature that embraces suffering for the sake of God's glory and Israel's redemption. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the church to awaken to its eternal destiny and the necessity of suffering in fulfilling God's redemptive plan.

In this sermon, the speaker shares about the persecution and revival happening in China. He and his brother have been imprisoned multiple times for their faith. Despite the persecution, they continue to share the gospel and see the kingdom of God expanding. The speaker's younger sister was recently arrested, but through prayer, she was protected and able to escape. The message emphasizes the importance of laying down our lives for the gospel and fulfilling the great commission of Jesus.

In this sermon, the speaker discusses the influence of spiritual forces in various aspects of society, such as institutions, culture, business, and entertainment. The speaker shares a personal experience of baptizing Lutherans who desired immersion instead of infant sprinkling. While walking to the locker room after the baptisms, the speaker slips and reflects on the importance of living in freedom and not being bound by fear or material possessions. The sermon emphasizes the eternal purpose of God in Christ Jesus, which is to demonstrate His wisdom through the church to the powers of the air. The speaker also highlights the example of a girl who endured confinement without complaining, attributing her suffering to the sovereignty of God rather than human responsibility.

This sermon emphasizes the importance of love, compassion, and faith in the face of persecution, particularly focusing on the struggles of persecuted Christians in various countries. It highlights the need for support, prayer, and understanding for those facing persecution, especially in communist and Muslim nations. The message encourages believers to show love, strength, and courage in the midst of adversity, following the example of persecuted Christians who demonstrate unwavering faith and love even in the most challenging circumstances.

In this sermon, the preacher discusses the impending cataclysm that Peter talks about in the Bible. He describes how the material universe will be dissolved and only spiritual things will remain. The preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life dedicated to Christ, as only the things done for Him will last. He also highlights the loving nature of God, who watches over us like a caring father, rather than a harsh judge. The sermon concludes with a reminder to show brotherly love and to be open to entertaining strangers, as they may be angels in disguise.

This sermon delves into the purpose of the recession, emphasizing the need to not waste this challenging time but to seek God's guidance and teaching. It explores how recessions can expose hidden sins, awaken us to global suffering, relocate our joy in God's grace, advance God's mission in spreading the gospel, and encourage the church to care for its members in need.

This sermon delves into the parable in Matthew 13:45-46 where the kingdom of heaven is likened to a merchant seeking a valuable pearl, symbolizing Christ seeking the Church. The Church, though not fully formed at the time, is described as a precious entity chosen by the Lord, embodying selectiveness, distinctiveness, and preciousness. The sermon emphasizes the Church's fullness, finality, and its intrinsic connection to Christ's suffering, calling believers to have a deep reverence and agony for the Church as a heavenly entity.

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.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound connection between God and His people, illustrating that those who harm God's followers are, in essence, striking at God Himself. He draws from Zechariah 2:8 to highlight the sacredness of God's people, likening them to the apple of His eye, which is fiercely protected. Brooks warns persecutors that their actions against believers will not go unpunished, as God is deeply aware of their suffering and will respond with justice. He reminds us that Christ, in His glorified state, continues to bear the griefs of His saints, reinforcing the intimate bond between Him and His followers. The sermon serves as a stern warning to those who afflict God's people, urging them to reconsider their actions.

J.R. Miller's sermon 'Shut In' reflects on the lives of those who are physically confined due to illness, emphasizing that their condition can be a source of peace and joy rather than despair. He draws parallels between these 'shut-ins' and Noah, who was safely enclosed in the ark by God's design, suggesting that such confinement can lead to a deeper communion with Christ and a unique ministry of love and patience. Miller encourages the church to recognize the spiritual contributions of these individuals, who, despite their limitations, can profoundly impact their communities through their faith and resilience. He highlights the importance of reaching out to these individuals, offering support and companionship, as a way of serving Christ Himself.

John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of gratitude and thankfulness in serving God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. He emphasizes the need to continue in brotherly love, hospitality, and remembering those who suffer adversity. Chrysostom encourages contentment, faith, and offering the sacrifice of praise to God continually, regardless of circumstances. He highlights the significance of enduring afflictions with thanksgiving, as they draw us closer to God and lead to sanctification.

John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of walking in wisdom towards those outside the faith, redeeming the time and being gracious in speech. He emphasizes the need to be cautious and wise in interactions with non-believers, avoiding unnecessary conflicts and being mindful of how to respond to each person appropriately. Chrysostom encourages believers to be moderate, gracious, and bold in their speech, tailored to edify and build up others. He highlights the significance of supporting fellow believers, sharing in their joys, and refraining from envy, as it ultimately harms oneself and the body of Christ.

In Ausbund 26, the preacher reflects on a tragic event where nine men were executed, three women were drowned, and all were buried together in one grave, causing much weeping and sorrow among the people. Despite prayers for the departed souls, some mocked them as servants of the Antichrist. The preacher describes the contrast between the initial lightheartedness of the important visitors and the somber atmosphere that enveloped everyone by the end of the day.

Brother Denny Kenaston preaches about the approaching wave of persecution, emphasizing the need for believers to be prepared mentally, spiritually, and practically for the challenges that may come. He highlights the importance of standing for the truth, learning to live in poverty, and arming oneself with a mindset of suffering and self-denial. The sermon stresses the significance of teaching children to be dedicated to God, stand for truth, and be prepared for potential hardships. Brother Denny encourages believers to be alert, ready to endure, and to trust in God's grace for strength in times of persecution.

John Follette emphasizes the importance of touching Jesus when we struggle to understand the Bible, encouraging us to seek His will, know God, and understand His purpose through a deep fellowship with the Son of God. He highlights the uniqueness of each individual's prayer life, urging us to develop our own technique and method of prayer rather than relying on others. Follette reminds us that prayer is not about changing God or manipulating Him to act, but about aligning ourselves with His will and deepening our relationship with Him through conversation and intimacy.

Samuel Rutherford, in a letter to a fellow minister, encourages him to find peace and contentment in God's will despite facing hardships and challenges in their ministry. He reminds his brother in faith that suffering is an integral part of serving God and entering His kingdom, emphasizing the need for courage and joy amidst trials. Rutherford shares his own struggles as a prisoner in Aberdeen, expressing a longing for spiritual refreshment and connection with other believers. He concludes with a message of hope, urging his fellow minister to hold fast to the truth they suffer for and to remember their shared commitment to Christ.

Jill Briscoe delivers a powerful sermon on standing up against injustice and oppression, drawing parallels between the courage of Festo in speaking out against the cruel killings under Amin's regime and the persecution faced by Archbishop Luwum. Despite the threats and dangers, Festo bravely followed in Jesus' steps, preaching against the misuse of power and the atrocities being committed. The story unfolds with intense moments of fear, torture, and ultimately, the tragic death of Archbishop Luwum, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by those who stand up for truth and justice.

Charles E. Cowman preaches about the transformative power of being 'taken aside by Jesus' in times of solitude and confinement, drawing parallels to the experiences of Paul in prison and other imprisoned saints like Bunyan and Madam Guyon. He emphasizes how in moments of inactivity and isolation, God can work in us and through us to bring forth some of the most profound and impactful ministries of Christian liberty, turning prisons into palaces and darkness into light.

George Whitefield preaches on the inevitability of persecution for those who choose to live godly in Christ Jesus, drawing from the teachings of Jesus and the apostle Paul. He emphasizes the importance of examining oneself to determine if they are truly living godly in Christ Jesus, as persecution is a mark of genuine discipleship. Whitefield also addresses those considering following Christ, urging them to count the cost and be prepared to endure persecution for His sake. Additionally, he speaks to ministers, encouraging them to be willing to suffer for the gospel and to pray for strength and faithfulness in the face of persecution. Lastly, he warns persecutors of the consequences of their actions and calls them to repentance and faith in Christ.