(Standing on Faith) 15. CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST
A.B. Simpson teaches that true Christian faith involves being crucified with Christ, embracing death to self in order to live a victorious, Spirit-filled life.
In this sermon, A.B. Simpson explores the profound meaning of being crucified with Christ, emphasizing the call to die to self and live through faith in Jesus. Drawing from the example of Thomas and biblical teachings, Simpson challenges believers to embrace sacrificial discipleship and unwavering devotion. This message inspires Christians to trust God fully and experience the transformative power of union with Christ.
Text
"Let us also go, that we may die with Him." John 11: 16.
This was an outburst of impetuous love from the heart of Thomas. The disciples had been vainly endeavoring to dissuade the Master from going back to Judea, because of the malignant hate which the resurrection of Lazarus had awakened on the part of His enemies, and the certainty of such hate being renewed in a dangerous form if He should return. "Master," they said, "the Jews of late sought to stone Thee, and goest Thou thither again?" But when Thomas saw that persuasions did not avail, and that the Lord was certainly going back to face His enemies, he cried in an impulse of desperation and devotion, "Let us also go, that we may die with Him." This, does not refer to the death of Lazarus, but to the certain death which Jesus would incur should He return to the midst of His infuriated foes. It was the cry of a devoted soldier ready to follow his leader in the "forlorn hope," even into the jaws of danger and of death.
Thomas was wiser than he knew in the words he uttered. It is true he and his fellow-disciples did not immediately share their Master\
Sermon Outline
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I
- Thomas’ declaration of willingness to die with Jesus
- The danger and opposition Jesus faced returning to Judea
- The meaning behind following Christ in death
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II
- The spiritual significance of being crucified with Christ
- Dying to self to live in Christ’s resurrection power
- The transformation through faith and surrender
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III
- Practical implications for Christian discipleship
- Living a life of devotion and sacrifice
- The promise of victory through union with Christ
Key Quotes
“Let us also go, that we may die with Him.” — A.B. Simpson
“This was an outburst of impetuous love from the heart of Thomas.” — A.B. Simpson
“It is the cry of a devoted soldier ready to follow his leader in the 'forlorn hope,' even into the jaws of danger and of death.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Commit daily to dying to self and living for Christ.
- Trust God courageously even in the face of opposition or danger.
- Embrace sacrificial love as a mark of true discipleship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be crucified with Christ?
It means dying to our old self and sinful nature so that we can live a new life empowered by Christ’s resurrection.
Why did Thomas say 'Let us also go, that we may die with Him'?
Thomas expressed his loyal devotion and readiness to face danger alongside Jesus, even if it meant death.
How can believers apply this teaching today?
Believers can embrace self-denial, trust in God’s plan, and live sacrificially for Christ’s sake.
Is this teaching about physical death or spiritual death?
Primarily spiritual death to self, though it acknowledges the possibility of physical suffering for faith.
What is the outcome of being crucified with Christ?
The believer experiences new life, victory over sin, and deeper fellowship with Jesus.