In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the difficulty and sacrifice involved in following Christianity. He highlights the need for complete dedication and leaving behind worldly desires. The preacher mentions the concept of drinking from the cup, which symbolizes the suffering and betrayal that Jesus experienced. He emphasizes that true discipleship requires enduring mental, physical, and spiritual pain. The sermon also mentions the division and rejection that followers of Jesus may face, including being ostracized by family members and doubted by others.

In this sermon, the speaker discusses the testing of the Israelites' hearts during the 40 days and nights that Moses was on Mount Sinai. The Israelites failed this test when they engaged in idolatry and worshiped a golden calf. The speaker then transitions to the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus speaks about bringing division rather than peace on earth. The speaker explains that the coming of the Holy Spirit, symbolized by fire, brings judgment and tests the motives and intentions of people's hearts. This judgment extends to human relationships, as the fiery sword discerns the true nature of individuals.

In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of seeking God's mercy and salvation. He shares personal experiences and illustrations of people who died suddenly, emphasizing the uncertainty of life and the need to make a choice for eternity. The preacher warns against delaying the decision to follow God, citing the verse "Seek ye the Lord while he may be found." He also highlights the consequences of not choosing God, referencing the story of the rich man and Lazarus in the Bible. The sermon concludes with a call to be watchful and prepared for the return of Christ, as described in various biblical passages.

In this sermon, Bishop Stuart Ruck explores the concept of leaving the world in the same way we entered it. He emphasizes the vulnerability and helplessness of newborns, drawing a parallel to how we will leave this world when we die. The sermon highlights the importance of understanding this truth intellectually and emotionally, and how it relates to salvation. Bishop Ruck uses the metaphor of coming home to illustrate the process of getting saved, emphasizing the role of Jesus as the loving and responsible leader.

Leonard Ravenhill addresses the 'Paralysis of Preoccupation,' illustrating how King Herod, consumed by his political troubles, missed the monumental birth of Jesus just a short ride away. He emphasizes that while many were troubled by the news of Christ's birth, Mary and Joseph remained focused on their divine mission. Ravenhill warns that modern distractions have led believers to overlook the urgency of spiritual matters, urging them to reflect on their commitment to soul-saving and the moving of the Spirit. He challenges the church to rise above trivial concerns and recognize the significance of Christ's return, reminding them that preoccupation with lesser things can lead to spiritual stagnation. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed focus on the power and glory of Jesus, who is the door to greater spiritual riches.

Favell Lee Mortimer delves into the paradox of Jesus being called the Prince of peace yet bringing division on earth before ultimate peace. The rejection and persecution of the Gospel by the world showcase the depravity of the human heart. Jesus foresaw the conflicts His Gospel would bring but endured suffering to bring everlasting peace. He longs for the day when righteousness will cover the earth, and all divisions will cease upon His second coming.

L.E. Maxwell emphasizes the transformative power of the Cross in shaping our relationships, asserting that true identity and connection come from being a Christian above all else. He illustrates how the Cross can create divisions even among the closest of family ties, as it calls believers to prioritize their commitment to Christ over earthly attachments. Maxwell uses biblical examples, including Paul's relationship with the Corinthians and the sacrifices made by devoted parents and children, to highlight the necessity of dying to self for the sake of the Gospel. He warns against the natural inclination to shield loved ones from the path of suffering, urging believers to embrace the Cross as a means of true love and connection. Ultimately, the Cross is portrayed as a source of both division and unity, leading to a deeper understanding of life in Christ.