This sermon delves into the historical context of divisions within Christianity, focusing on the Council of Nicaea and the controversies surrounding believers who renounced Christ under persecution. It contrasts the views of Augustine and Adonitus on the purity of the church, highlighting the extreme measures taken by figures like John Calvin in Geneva. The core theological debate centers on the concept of God's love for all versus the Calvinist doctrine of predestination and limited atonement, questioning the nature of God's mercy and kindness.

This sermon delves into Psalm 51, highlighting David's deep repentance and plea for God's mercy after his sins of murder and adultery. It emphasizes the timeless nature of God's opinion of man, contrasting it with the changing opinions of men about God over time. The psalm is described as a profound expression of confession and repentance, punctuated not by stops and commas, but by groans, tears, and agony. The importance of coming to God as sinners, pleading for His mercy, is underscored through David's heartfelt words.

J. Glyn Owen emphasizes the profound patience of God, illustrating how it is a reflection of His goodness and kindness towards humanity. He explains that God's patience serves as a temporary truce, allowing individuals the opportunity to repent rather than face immediate judgment. Owen highlights that this divine patience is often misunderstood, leading some to take it for granted, while others may see it as an invitation to continue in sin. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of God's patience as a means to lead us toward repentance and a deeper relationship with Him. The sermon concludes with a plea for individuals to respond to God's kindness before the time of grace comes to an end.

David Wilkerson emphasizes that true compassion, as exemplified by Jesus, goes beyond mere feelings of pity or sympathy; it compels us to take action to alleviate the suffering of others. He highlights that Jesus was consistently moved with compassion, responding to the needs of the multitudes by healing the sick rather than simply offering words of comfort. Wilkerson warns against becoming desensitized to the pain around us and encourages believers to embody the same compassion that Jesus demonstrated. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of compassion that leads to tangible help and change in the lives of those in need.

David Wilkerson emphasizes that Jesus exemplified God's compassion during His earthly ministry, often moved by the suffering of the people around Him. He reflects on the grief in Christ's heart today due to the ongoing suffering in the world, asserting that God is not indifferent but deeply cares for His children. Wilkerson highlights the miraculous healings Jesus performed, showcasing His willingness to help those in need, and encourages believers to embody this compassion in their own lives. He urges that by presenting ourselves to God, we can be instruments of His compassion and witness the needs around us.

The preacher delves into the multifaceted nuances of the Greek word 'oligos,' which can refer to being small in number, time, distance, size, or degree. The term is used in various contexts throughout the Bible, highlighting the significance of 'little' in God's economy. Believers are encouraged to endure suffering with the understanding that it is temporary and light compared to the eternal weight of glory awaiting them. Ultimately, the sermon emphasizes that God, the God of all grace, is sovereign over every trial and suffering, promising restoration and eternal reward for those who persevere.

David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of showing mercy and kindness to others as a form of comfort, sharing a personal story of a church member who felt supported during a difficult time caring for his ailing mother. He highlights that true mercy is often found in simple, everyday actions, such as a smile or a sympathetic word. Wilkerson reminds us that we cannot extend comfort to others if we are preoccupied with our own struggles and fail to recognize God's mercy in our lives. The sermon encourages believers to be merciful, as those who have received God's comfort are called to share it with others.

William Gadsby preaches about the long-suffering of God towards humanity, highlighting how despite our rebellion and insults towards Him, He continues to show mercy and patience. Gadsby discusses God's long-suffering towards all men, the elect while dead in sin, and His people after they are called by grace. He emphasizes the need for repentance, gratitude, and obedience in response to God's long-suffering and mercy, urging believers to abhor sin and live in holiness to honor and glorify God.

Thomas a Kempis preaches about the great honor and glory of serving God wholeheartedly, forsaking worldly desires, and embracing a life of religious devotion. He reflects on the multitude of God's mercies, the sweetness of His charity, and the undeserved grace and friendship bestowed upon His servants. Kempis acknowledges the privilege of serving a God who condescends to receive even the poor and unworthy into His service, offering Himself to them. He emphasizes the joy, freedom, and holiness found in serving God, and the eternal rewards awaiting those who dedicate their lives to Him.

Chuck Smith emphasizes the urgent call to 'Turn to God' as outlined in Joel 2:12, highlighting that turning to God should be immediate and heartfelt. He explains that true repentance involves more than just seeking solutions; it requires a sincere search for God with fasting, weeping, and a broken heart. Smith reassures that God is gracious and merciful, always ready to welcome those who turn to Him, regardless of their past. He encourages listeners to recognize the kindness of God and the importance of seeking Him before facing dire circumstances. Ultimately, the sermon invites individuals to embrace the transformative power of turning to God in faith and sincerity.

David Wilkerson emphasizes the significance of the 'cloud of witnesses' mentioned in Hebrews 12:1, highlighting their understanding of God's mercy and patience towards a wicked generation. He reflects on the lives of biblical figures like Paul and Peter, who experienced God's grace despite their past sins, illustrating that God's delay in judgment is due to His love for those still lost in sin. Wilkerson urges Christians to recognize the importance of loving the lost and to embody the same patience that God shows towards humanity. He reminds us that many who have repented and found salvation now testify to God's mercy, encouraging believers to extend that love to others.

John Gill emphasizes the longsuffering of God as a profound expression of His mercy and patience, illustrating how this attribute encourages faith and hope among believers. He explains that God's longsuffering is not merely a passive quality but an essential aspect of His nature, reflecting His goodness and restraint of anger. Gill highlights that God's patience extends to both His chosen people and the ungodly, serving various divine purposes, including the eventual salvation of the elect and the demonstration of His justice. He uses biblical examples, such as the patience shown to the Israelites and the mercy granted to sinners, to illustrate God's enduring longsuffering. Ultimately, this attribute reveals God's desire for repentance and His readiness to forgive.

A.W. Pink emphasizes the incredible longsuffering of God towards a sinful world, where blatant defiance against Him is rampant. He questions why God does not immediately punish the wicked as He has in the past, attributing this patience to His desire to show mercy and grace to those destined for destruction. Pink reflects on the personal experience of believers, acknowledging their past sins and the grace that has saved them, while urging them to respond with gratitude and obedience. He calls for a deeper understanding of God's patience, encouraging believers to emulate this divine quality in their own lives. Ultimately, Pink challenges the congregation to practice love and forgiveness, mirroring God's longsuffering nature.

David Wilkerson emphasizes the absolute mercy of God through the story of Lot in Sodom and Gomorrah, illustrating how even a righteous man like Lot needed divine intervention to escape impending destruction. The angels' act of physically leading Lot and his family out of the city highlights God's mercy, as it was not Lot's goodness that saved him but God's compassion. Wilkerson draws parallels to today's society, where rampant sin mirrors that of Sodom, yet believers are spared due to the grace of Jesus Christ. He urges the church to recognize that their salvation is solely a result of God's mercy, not their own righteousness. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding and belief in God's promises of mercy as outlined in Scripture.

Samuel Rutherford preaches about finding comfort in God's mercy and grace, even in the midst of struggles and uncertainties. He expresses his desire to serve God faithfully, despite feeling inadequate and unworthy. Rutherford acknowledges his doubts and fears, yet he ultimately surrenders them to Christ, seeking to trust in God's plan and provision. He reflects on the challenges he faces in his faith journey, but remains anchored in God's omnipotence and goodwill, choosing to wait patiently for His guidance and blessings.

Thomas Reade preaches about the believer's portion in Christ, emphasizing the abundant blessings and promises God freely gives to His children. Through faith in Jesus, believers become heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, sharing in the glory and inheritance of the Kingdom. The believer's access to God's grace, peace, and adoption as children of God is highlighted, along with the assurance of dwelling in God's presence and glory for eternity.

Rich Carmicheal preaches on the importance of patient endurance and faithfulness in the face of increasing pressures against our faith, urging believers to remain steadfast to the Lord to the very end. Drawing from the examples of the Apostle Paul and biblical figures like Abraham and David, he emphasizes the value God places on faithfulness and the promise of eternal rewards for those who persevere. Carmicheal highlights the foundational truth that the Lord is always faithful to His people, providing strength, deliverance, and forgiveness to those who remain faithful to Him. He also stresses that faithfulness is a matter of the heart, flowing from a deep love for God, and calls for faithful stewardship of the resources and responsibilities entrusted by the Lord.

Octavius Winslow emphasizes the gentleness of God, reassuring believers that despite life's trials and afflictions, God will do them no harm. He reflects on the experiences of biblical figures like Jacob, Job, and Paul, illustrating that God's dealings, though sometimes painful, are ultimately for their good and rooted in His love. Winslow encourages the faithful to trust in God's compassionate nature, reminding them that His rebukes and afflictions are meant for healing and growth. He highlights God's protective nature, assuring that He will not allow others to harm His children and will mend their self-inflicted wounds. Ultimately, believers are called to yield themselves to Jesus, who has never hurt them and never will.

James Bourne reflects on the spiritual liberty found in Christ, emphasizing Luther's words on the Epistle to the Galatians about the inestimable love of Christ who gave Himself for sinners. Bourne shares his personal experience of feeling the precious love of Christ, which removes fears and misgivings, leading to a sense of freedom and peace. Despite facing battles against the world, the flesh, and the devil, Bourne finds solace in the unbinding power of the Word of God that softens his spirit in prayer and reveals God's mercy and long-suffering. He praises the faithfulness of fellow believers like Mr. Dore, highlighting the spiritual vitality that comes from making the Lord one's refuge, bringing forth fruit even in old age.

C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that the Lord is 'slow to anger' and 'great in power,' illustrating how God's mercy swiftly reaches out to humanity while His wrath is restrained. He explains that true power lies in self-control, as God chooses to hold back His anger, demonstrating His love and compassion for sinners. Spurgeon encourages believers to trust in Jesus as their refuge, reminding them that God's great power should not instill fear but rather inspire confidence and joy in His protective love. The sermon calls for reflection on one's relationship with God and the assurance found in His mercy.