In this sermon, the preacher discusses the principle of the death of a promise. He explains that when God intends to fulfill a promise or bring about a special blessing, He first puts a sentence of death on that promise and all the ways it could be fulfilled. The preacher uses examples from the Bible, such as Abraham and the children of Israel, to illustrate this principle. He emphasizes the importance of not losing hope and trusting in God's timing and faithfulness to fulfill His promises.

This sermon focuses on the importance of faith and not staggering at the promises of God, using the example of Abraham's unwavering belief in God's promise of a child despite seemingly impossible circumstances. It emphasizes the need to praise God and trust in His ability to fulfill His promises, even before seeing any evidence of them coming to pass.

Charles Finney addresses the critical issue of unbelief, defining it as the absence of faith and highlighting its various manifestations, such as worldly-mindedness, anxiety, and apathy towards the gospel. He emphasizes that unbelief is unreasonable and wicked, as it leads individuals to neglect the promises of God and to live as if His truths are not real. Finney illustrates the contrast between the faith of Abraham and the paralyzing effects of unbelief, urging believers to trust in God's character and promises. He calls for a deep, personal appropriation of faith, warning against the dangers of false hope and the refusal to enter into the rest of faith that God offers.

F.B. Meyer emphasizes the unwavering faith of Abraham, who, despite his old age and the barrenness of Sarah, chose to focus on God's promises rather than his physical limitations. He illustrates that true faith involves recognizing challenges but ultimately trusting in God's ability to fulfill His word. Meyer encourages believers to not dwell on their weaknesses or past failures but to look to Christ, who assures us of our righteousness and deliverance from sin. He reminds us that God's promises are certain and that our standing in grace is secure through our union with Christ. This faith is not just for Abraham but is credited to all who believe in Jesus, who was raised for our justification.

Jon Courson emphasizes the simplicity of spirituality, drawing from Matthew 18:3 where Jesus teaches about becoming like little children to enter the Kingdom. He highlights Paul's message in Romans that salvation is a free gift based on faith, not works, using Abraham as an example of unwavering faith in God's promises. Courson delves into four key elements of Abraham's faith: not focusing on limitations, not lowering expectations, giving God glory, and fully trusting God with the situation, encouraging listeners to have faith like Abraham and believe in God's power.

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.

Charles E. Cowman emphasizes the importance of faith in believing without seeing, drawing parallels to Peter walking on water and Abraham's trust in God's promises despite his own limitations. He highlights the need to trust in God alone, even when results are not immediately visible, and to stand firm on God's unchanging Word. The sermon encourages a deep, unwavering faith that goes beyond what is seen and comprehended.

John Piper delves into Luke 1:5-25, highlighting the announcement of John the Baptist's birth to Zechariah and the parallels drawn between John and Jesus. Piper emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's unique work in the births of these two men, showcasing His sovereignty and control over humanly impossible situations. He contrasts Zechariah's unbelief with Mary's faith, urging listeners to trust God's promises without demanding excessive evidence and to seek understanding with humility. Piper also encourages repentance and continued obedience, emphasizing that falling into unbelief temporarily should not lead to despair, but rather to seeking forgiveness and blessing the Lord.

Thomas Boston preaches on the providence of God, emphasizing how God's care extends even to the smallest details of creation, such as sparrows. He explains that providence involves preserving and governing all creatures and their actions, with God overruling even sinful actions for a good end. Boston urges believers to trust in God's wisdom, power, and holiness, and to submit to His will in all circumstances, avoiding sin and anxiety while relying on God's provision and guidance.

Andrew Murray emphasizes the importance of living by faith rather than by feelings, illustrating that true belief in God does not rely on personal emotions or experiences. He explains that many Christians struggle with the temptation to seek feelings as a confirmation of their faith, but true salvation and peace come from believing in God's Word alone. Murray encourages believers to focus on faith in Jesus and His promises, asserting that faith leads to a blessed life, while feelings can be misleading. He concludes by urging Christians to make a daily choice to walk by faith, trusting in God's faithfulness and love, regardless of their emotional state.