Eternity - 1 Cor. 7:29
The sermon emphasizes the urgency of accepting Christ in light of the eternal consequences of our choices.
Bernard Fell delivers a powerful sermon on the brevity of time and the importance of focusing on eternity. He emphasizes the need to prioritize accepting Christ, as that decision determines one's eternal destiny. Despite distractions like a congregant's obsession with time, the preacher redirects the focus to the eternal significance of the message, urging listeners to embrace Christ for a future of endless glories.
Text
But this I say, brethren, the time is short.
1 Corinthians 7:29
The preacher's voice rang true and clear,
A Christ-exalting theme;
The congregation sat enthralled,
And none could idly dream.
There was a stickler for the time
Among that favoured flock,
And if the sermon was prolonged,
His eyes strayed to the clock.
His pocket-watch confirmed the hour;
He twirled the silver chain,
And if the discourse did not stop,
Out came the watch again.
The preacher spake within himself,
"This practice I resent;"
And when the timepiece reappeared,
This well-aimed arrow sent-
"Your watch, dear sir, please put away,
I do not speak on time!
Eternity I preach today,
More solemn, yet sublime."
How short the span of this vain life!
How long eternity!
Yet one brief moment's choice decides
The soul's true destiny.
Accept the Christ, then thou art safe
To cross time's border-line,
Into a realm of blessedness,
Where endless glories shine.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Understanding the brevity of life - The significance of time in relation to eternity
- II points: - The urgency of accepting Christ - Eternity as a theme in Christian teaching
- III points: - The consequences of our choices - The promise of eternal life through faith
- IV points: - Living in light of eternity - The call to share the message of salvation
Key Quotes
“How short the span of this vain life! How long eternity!” — Bernard Fell
“Yet one brief moment's choice decides the soul's true destiny.” — Bernard Fell
“Eternity I preach today, More solemn, yet sublime.” — Bernard Fell
Application Points
- Reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of your choices.
- Share the message of salvation with others, emphasizing its eternal significance.
- Live each day with an awareness of eternity, prioritizing faith and relationships.