In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the topic of baby Jesus and the growth of the baby. He emphasizes the importance of giving time to God and feeding our spirits through worship and prayer. The speaker also highlights the need for repentance and turning away from idols that consume our thoughts and time. The sermon concludes with a reminder to prioritize Jesus in our lives and to spend time thinking and talking about Him.

In this sermon, the speaker begins by asking the congregation what God has been arranging in their lives and what they are being set up for. He emphasizes the importance of being in church and the significance of attending despite the time change. The sermon then focuses on the story of Esther and how she had to approach the king to save her people. The speaker highlights the pivotal moment when Esther is faced with the decision to risk her life and approach the king, and how Mordecai encourages her to fulfill her destiny.

This sermon reflects on the tragic betrayal and rejection of Jesus by those who should have been His friends, drawing parallels to the story of Abraham being called the friend of God. Despite witnessing His miracles and teachings, many rejected and crucified Him, displaying a deep-seated hatred and rebellion. The sermon emphasizes the sacrificial love of Christ who endured immense suffering and death for sinners, highlighting the profound impact of His ultimate sacrifice on the cross of Calvary.

In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.

In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying committed to God and not giving up, using examples from the Bible. He mentions the story of David's son Absalom rebelling against him and how David remained faithful to God throughout the conflict. The preacher also references the Apostle Paul's perseverance and determination to stay on the right path. The sermon concludes with a call to the audience to abide in Jesus, follow his commandments, and be a friend of Jesus.

The sermon delves into the concept of conditional promises in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to God's will and the consequences of not following His commands. It highlights the need to examine our hearts before partaking in communion, ensuring we do so with a joy-filled heart, focused on the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins.

Shane Idleman addresses the question of whether the Bible is an 'iffy' book, emphasizing that it contains conditional promises from God, where our choices have consequences. He highlights God's sovereignty while also acknowledging human responsibility, illustrating this with examples from scripture, such as the call to repentance and the importance of seeking God. Idleman stresses the significance of true belief and repentance, which leads to transformation and a desire to follow Christ wholeheartedly. He encourages the congregation to examine their hearts and to take communion with a sincere understanding of Christ's sacrifice, reminding them that true faith is demonstrated through obedience to God's commands.

Chuck Smith emphasizes the identity and responsibilities of God's servants, highlighting that true servanthood involves submitting to Jesus Christ as Lord and trusting in His righteousness through faith rather than works. He explains that obedience to God's commands is essential, and that serving Him entails seeking to please Him above all else. Smith reassures that as God's servants, believers can rely on His provision and protection, especially in the face of spiritual battles against Satan, who seeks to undermine their faith.

A.W. Pink explores the doctrine of justification, emphasizing the apparent contradiction between Paul's assertion that justification is by faith alone and James' claim that works are necessary for justification. Pink clarifies that Paul speaks of justification before God, while James addresses the evidence of faith before men, asserting that genuine faith is always accompanied by good works. He warns against the danger of empty professions of faith that lack spiritual fruit, illustrating that true faith manifests in love and obedience. The sermon highlights the inseparable relationship between justification and sanctification, urging believers to demonstrate their faith through their actions.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of being 'companions' of Christ, as highlighted in Hebrews 3:1 and 3:14. He explores the biblical concept of companionship, illustrating how figures like Abraham, Moses, and David exemplified deep relationships with God, ultimately culminating in the companionship offered through Jesus Christ. Sparks stresses that this companionship is not merely an official title but a heartfelt relationship that calls for responsibility and commitment to God's purpose centered in His Son. He warns of the consequences of neglecting this calling, underscoring the importance of remaining steadfast in faith to truly experience the greatness of being a companion of Christ. The sermon invites believers to recognize their heavenly calling and the intimate relationship they are invited to share with Jesus.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true Christianity requires a humble obedience to Christ's teachings, challenging the notion that faith alone, without adherence to His commandments, suffices for salvation. He references Luke 6:46, where Jesus questions why people call Him 'Lord' yet fail to follow His commands. Tozer argues that the belief that one can be a Christian without obedience has diluted the evangelical message and moral standards within the Church. He warns that this misunderstanding of grace leads to erroneous conclusions about the nature of faith and obedience. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a return to a faith that is active and obedient to Christ's lordship.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound implications of fully accepting Jesus Christ into one's life, which includes embracing His friends and recognizing His enemies as our own. He asserts that accepting Christ's cross means sharing in His rejection and standing firm in faith, even when it leads to isolation. Tozer calls for preachers to faithfully convey the true cost of discipleship to prevent backsliding among believers. He passionately declares that true followers of Christ must align themselves with His values, regardless of societal divisions. Ultimately, he warns that unfaithful preaching will have serious consequences at the judgment seat of Christ.

A.W. Pink emphasizes that true obedience to Christ is essential for honoring Him, which goes beyond mere church attendance or financial contributions. He argues that many Christians are deceived into thinking they are saved while their hearts remain unchanged, highlighting the necessity of living in accordance with God's commandments. Pink stresses that obedience is not just about external actions but involves a heartfelt submission to God's will, which is rooted in love for Him. He warns against the dangers of being mere hearers of the Word without incorporating it into daily life, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with God through obedience. Ultimately, Pink concludes that true spiritual obedience is a reflection of a transformed heart that delights in God's law.

Andrew Murray emphasizes that Christ's friendship is evidenced through obedience to His commands, as stated in John 15:14. He explains that Jesus demonstrated His love by giving His life for us, and in response, we are called to obey His commands as a sign of our friendship with Him. Murray argues that the Christian community often prioritizes privilege over duty, neglecting the importance of implicit obedience as a condition of true discipleship. He encourages believers to embrace the joy of obedience, which stems from a deep personal relationship with Jesus, and to recognize that true friendship with Christ involves a commitment to do what He commands. Ultimately, Murray calls for a return to the understanding that our actions reflect our faith in His love and friendship.

A.W. Pink emphasizes that when the conversion of sinners becomes the primary focus of a preacher, rather than the glory of God, it leads to a distortion of the truth. This misguided emphasis results in a diluted message that seeks to make conversion easier, often neglecting essential biblical truths about God's sovereignty and the necessity of the Holy Spirit's work. Pink warns that such an approach can lead to a selective interpretation of Scripture, favoring certain passages while ignoring others that convey the depth of God's election and redemption. Ultimately, this misalignment can compromise the integrity of the Gospel and the preacher's own theology.

John Chrysostom preaches on the powerful examples of faith in Hebrews, highlighting Noah's obedience in building the ark despite the lack of visible signs, Abraham's obedience in leaving his homeland without knowing the destination, and Sarah's faith in conceiving a child in old age. He emphasizes the importance of faith in receiving God's promises, even if they are not fully realized in this life. Chrysostom urges the congregation to reflect on their own sins and shortcomings, to repent, and to strive for the eternal blessings promised by God.

Samuel Davies preaches about the common sin of rejecting Jesus Christ, emphasizing the unsuitable reception of Christ and the gospel, which often hides under a cloak of religion. He highlights the deadly nature of neglecting Christ and the perishing condition of souls that reject Him. Through the parable of the vineyard and the rejection of the Son, Davies illustrates the consequences of rejecting the Savior. He challenges the audience to reflect on their reception of Christ, urging them to give Him the proper reception He deserves as Savior, High Priest, King, and Prophet. Davies warns of the aggravated guilt and severe punishment for neglecting the Son of God, calling for repentance and a change of heart to receive the mercy and salvation offered by Jesus.

A.W. Pink emphasizes that true obedience to God is essential for honoring Christ, which goes beyond mere church attendance or financial contributions. He argues that many Christians are deceived into thinking they are saved while living unchanged lives, failing to recognize that obedience to God's commandments is a true expression of love for Him. Pink stresses that genuine obedience stems from a heart transformed by grace, leading to a sincere desire to follow God's will in all aspects of life. He warns against the dangers of mere knowledge without application, urging believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through active obedience to His Word.

Zac Poonen preaches about the way of the cross, emphasizing the importance of being broken and emptied, following the examples of Paul and Jesus who surrendered themselves completely to God. Through the life of Abraham, he illustrates the concept of being emptied, becoming God's friend, and receiving blessings to be a blessing to others. The sermon delves into the significance of faith, worship, and total dependence on the Holy Spirit, highlighting the need to trust God, be emptied of self-sufficiency, and offer everything to God, even the most precious gifts, in true worship.

Ed Wrather reflects on the tragic school shooting at Columbine High School, highlighting the questions of 'why' and the need for prevention of such tragedies. He emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity, citing Romans 3:23, and the impact of a lack of faith in Jesus Christ in families. Wrather stresses the importance of being committed Christians to prevent criminal behavior and guide our children away from violence, ultimately pointing to being true friends of God as the best way forward.

George MacDonald delves into the profound significance of Jesus' cry 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?' as the ultimate act of devotion and triumph over evil. He emphasizes the depth of Jesus' suffering, the struggle to maintain faith in the face of darkness, and the victory of the divine will declaring for God even in desolation. MacDonald challenges Christians to move beyond mere feelings and external circumstances, urging them to assert their will for God even in the darkest moments, knowing that God's love remains constant. He highlights the importance of choosing God's will freely, as it leads to the truest form of unity with God and the restoration of the divine relationship.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound concept of divine-human friendship, asserting that God initiated this relationship by declaring, 'Ye are my friends' (John 15:14). He explains that true friendship does not require complete similarity, but rather a connection at points where personalities align. This friendship between the infinite God and finite man is credible and fulfilling, as it reflects the likeness of their hearts. Tozer highlights that God created man in His image and is actively restoring that image, which was marred by sin, allowing for a deep and satisfying relationship with Him.

Ronald W. Graham preaches about the Jesus of John, focusing on His portrayal as a lover of men and women. The sermon delves into the deep theological implications of God's love as central to His nature, as seen in the Epistle and Gospel of John. Specific individuals in the Gospel, such as Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman, the Jerusalem woman caught in adultery, and the Bethany friends, Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, are highlighted to showcase Jesus' love, respect, sensitivity, and transformative relationships with each person.