
Charles Ewing Brown
- Sermons
- Bio
The Theory of Gradual Sanctification
0ROM 4:4ROM 6:22GAL 5:16EPH 6:10PHP 3:121TH 5:232TI 2:18HEB 12:141PE 2:24Charles Ewing Brown delves into the doctrine of sanctification, contrasting the Wesleyan belief in sanctification as a second work of grace with the Calvinistic view of gradual sanctification. Dr. Charles Hodge's Systematic Theology is highlighted as a classic work representing the Calvinistic perspective, emphasizing sanctification as a progressive work involving the renewal of the whole person after God's image. The Calvinistic doctrine asserts that sanctification is a supernatural work that involves a gradual triumph of the new nature over the remains of sin, culminating in the believer's complete conformity to Christ. The sermon explores the conflict between the flesh and the Spirit, emphasizing the ongoing struggle against indwelling sin and the need for continual growth in grace.
Indications of a Second Crisis
0ACT 19:6Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the scriptural doctrine of a second crisis, emphasizing entire sanctification through a dramatic baptism of the Holy Ghost that destroys all carnality and fills believers with the fullness of God. He delves into the geological analogy of rock layers to illustrate the complexity of spiritual experiences in the early church, highlighting the need for diligent study to uncover hidden truths. Brown explores the significance of the Roman Catholic ceremony of confirmation as a theological fossil pointing to the impartation of the Holy Spirit as a second crisis in salvation, supported by biblical references and early church fathers' writings.
The Symbolism of the Old Testament
0PHP 3:20HEB 4:11HEB 6:1HEB 10:19REV 21:2Charles Ewing Brown discusses the doctrine of entire sanctification preached by the pioneers of the holiness movement, emphasizing the allegorical interpretation of the Old Testament by New Testament writers to support this truth. He highlights the importance of not rejecting the allegorical approach, as it reveals profound truths reflected in the Book of Hebrews, particularly regarding the rest that remains for God's people and the concept of heaven on earth. Brown also delves into the symbolism of Canaan as a type of both heaven and the completely consecrated life, and the significance of entering the holy of holies as an experience of entire sanctification where believers enjoy the fullness of the gospel blessing.
The Second Crisis as Cleansing
0ACT 15:9ROM 7:51CO 3:1GAL 5:171JN 1:7Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the doctrine of inbred sin in believers and the need for a second work of grace, entire sanctification, to cleanse believers from the remains of the carnal mind. He emphasizes that this belief, rooted in Wesleyan theology, is supported by the New Testament and has historical significance in Protestant religious faiths. Brown highlights the ongoing struggle between the flesh and the spirit in the hearts of believers, pointing to the scriptural evidence that supports the existence of inbred sin even after regeneration.
Sin as Evil Disposition
0GEN 6:5PSA 51:5ECC 7:29MAT 15:19ROM 3:10ROM 5:12ROM 7:17ROM 7:24EPH 2:3EPH 2:12Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the hindrances to social progress, using Plato's ideal state as an illustration of how human desires and sinful tendencies can corrupt even the noblest intentions. He emphasizes the inborn perversity of human nature as a challenge that has troubled dreamers of human welfare for centuries, pointing out that while science can pave the way for a utopian society, it cannot change the hearts of evil men who seek power for selfish gain. Brown urges listeners to consider the doctrine of inherited sin, exploring the concept of indwelling sin and the impact of Adam's fall on humanity's nature and propensity towards evil.
The Doctrine of Inherited Sin
0Charles Ewing Brown delves into the doctrine of original sin, refuting claims that it was unknown to the New Testament church, by highlighting its presence in the Old Testament and Jewish teachings before Christ. He explores the concept of sin as an hereditary inclination of the heart to evil, emphasizing the transmission of sin and the struggle against sinful tendencies. Brown discusses the Jewish belief in inherited sin and the implications of inbred sin on human nature, drawing parallels between instinctive behavior and the corruption of human impulses by sin. He addresses objections to the doctrine of inbred sin, clarifying its distinction from regeneration and entire sanctification, and the results of its removal on the Christian life.
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
0MAT 9:2LUK 7:47JHN 1:11JHN 14:16JHN 15:3ACT 2:3ACT 8:17ACT 9:17ACT 10:44ACT 19:6ROM 8:1Charles Ewing Brown preaches on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the experiences of believers in the ancient church who were baptized and received the Holy Ghost through the laying on of hands. The sermon delves into various instances in the New Testament where believers were baptized with the Holy Spirit, highlighting the evidence of their prior conversion and regeneration. Brown discusses the significance of the disciples' journey towards sanctification and the need for believers to experience the second crisis of Spirit baptism for a deeper connection with God.
The Work of the Holy Spirit
0GEN 1:2ISA 6:6MAL 3:2MAT 3:11JHN 3:2ACT 1:8ACT 2:2Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the depth and complexity of the Bible and the plan of salvation, emphasizing the multiple 'office work' of the Holy Spirit. He illustrates this complexity by comparing the Holy Spirit's roles to that of a judge and a physician, showing that there is no contradiction in the various works of the Spirit. Brown delves into the symbolic representations of the Holy Spirit as air, fire, water, and oil, highlighting their significance in illustrating the Spirit's work in human life, from conviction of sin to sanctification and empowerment for witnessing.
Entire Sanctification as a Bundle of Possibilities
0Charles Ewing Brown delves into the doctrine of entire sanctification, acknowledging the disappointment some sincere teachers and believers have faced in not fully realizing the promised results. He explores the gap between expectations and reality, attributing it to misunderstandings about the cleansing of nature and destruction of carnality in sanctification. Brown emphasizes the importance of a continuous response to God's grace, using analogies to illustrate the varying outcomes of the sanctified experience. He highlights the need to seek the Giver, not just the gift, and discusses the power received through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, focusing on its role in witnessing for Christ and living a life of moral integrity and spiritual strength.
The Danger of Losing Salvation
0EZK 18:24Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the importance of finding a balance between timidity and self-confidence in the Christian faith. He emphasizes that the only way to keep from falling away is to keep from sinning, as sin leads to separation from God. Brown uses various Old and New Testament passages to illustrate that Christians can indeed fall away into sin and be lost forever if they do not repent and return to a life of obedience and faith.
The Meaning of Holiness
0PRO 9:10JHN 17:19GAL 3:13HEB 5:14HEB 10:191JN 4:17Charles Ewing Brown delves into the complex concept of holiness, exploring its origins in ancient religions and its evolution in the Old Testament. He discusses the paradoxical nature of holiness, where some things are considered more holy than others, drawing parallels to personal property ownership. Brown emphasizes the importance of entire sanctification, where Christians move from belonging to God in a general sense to becoming His private, personal possession through a second crisis experience. He also addresses the idea of sanctifying holy things through deep acknowledgment of their holiness, highlighting the significance of love as the fulfillment of the law and the essence of holiness in human nature.
How Is Entire Sanctification Received?
0Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the importance of entire sanctification through consecration and faith, emphasizing the need for a clear and definite commitment to God. He discusses the distinction between faith alone and the combination of consecration and faith, highlighting the necessity of perfect consecration as an integral part of faith for entire sanctification. Brown addresses the challenges and misunderstandings surrounding the concept of consecration for sanctification, urging believers to separate these elements for a deeper understanding. He emphasizes the need for believers to continually reaffirm their consecration to God, viewing consecration not as a loss but as a wise investment for unmeasured gain in the Christian life.
The Need of Salvation
0GEN 3:17JOB 5:7PSA 24:1ECC 3:11ROM 8:19Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the universal theme of human suffering and misery, tracing it back to the earliest times and the inherent struggles faced by mankind. The sermon delves into the philosophical views of various thinkers like Schopenhauer, Thomas a Kempis, John Milton, and John Bunyan, highlighting the deep-rooted nature of human misery and the eternal quest for understanding and solutions. It emphasizes the dual nature of man, torn between the physical and spiritual realms, and the misalignment with God that leads to maladjustment and sin, ultimately causing the perpetual state of human suffering.
Sin as Transgression
0PSA 32:8MAT 3:1JHN 7:17ROM 2:15GAL 4:61JN 1:71JN 3:4REV 3:2Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the nature of sin, highlighting how it is a permanent element in mankind's life, often ignored in modern conversations and literature. He emphasizes that sin is like a pestilential disease, present at all times, and that all suffering has its roots in sin. Brown discusses how religions and philosophy have emerged to address this universal evil, and how the existence of law and government testify to the universality of sin. He delves into various theories of sin, contrasting Calvinism and Arminianism, and explores the New Testament terms for sin, emphasizing the importance of understanding sin in personal relations with God.
The Fundamental Quality of Sin
0Charles Ewing Brown delves into the fundamental quality of sin, exploring various theories such as sin stemming from ignorance of God, the pursuit of physical pleasures over true happiness, pride as the root of sin, and selfishness as a chief characteristic of sin. He emphasizes that sin is ultimately a rejection of God's love, leading to various forms of rebellion and self-deception. Brown discusses the beginning of sin as a break from God's love, initiated by a lack of faith and trust in God's will, resulting in guilt, corruption, and separation from God.
The Basis of Salvation
0JHN 1:29ROM 5:8EPH 1:7PHP 2:6COL 1:14HEB 2:141PE 1:181JN 1:7REV 1:5Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the fundamental teaching of salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that salvation is the result of Christ's entire life and work, from incarnation to resurrection. The redemption of mankind is traced to Christ's sacrificial work, likened to a lamb under the ancient temple order. The sermon delves into various theories of atonement, from Christ's ransom to Satan to Anselm's debt payment doctrine, highlighting the orthodox interpretation of salvation through Christ's sacrifice. Brown explores the concept of universal atonement, stressing that Christ died for all men, offering salvation to every individual through His sacrifice.
Things That Accompany Salvation
0ROM 10:9Charles Ewing Brown preaches about Antecedent Grace, highlighting how the atonement suspended the immediate penalty of Adam's sin and launched mankind on a new probation, emphasizing the universal grace of God given through the atonement. He also delves into Faith for Salvation, explaining that repentance and faith are intertwined, with faith being trust in Jesus Christ as a person, not just accepting historical facts. Brown emphasizes that faith is a gift granted by the Spirit of God, leading to salvation through a contrite heart and submission to Christ as a person.
The First Crisis of Redemption
0JER 31:33EZK 36:26LUK 17:21JHN 5:10ROM 5:1ROM 8:1ROM 8:15GAL 4:6EPH 2:5Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the historical shift in the understanding of salvation from sin within Christianity, highlighting the apostolic belief in salvation from sin and sinning in the present world. The sermon discusses the gradual lowering of standards over time, leading to the belief that salvation is a future hope rather than a present reality. It emphasizes the importance of returning to the apostolic teaching that salvation is freedom from sin experienced in the current life, as advocated by scholars like Arminius and Wesley.
Difficult Texts Explained
0Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the importance of understanding Christian doctrine through earnest study, highlighting the confusion between the careless, sin-unconscious world and traditional believers. He emphasizes the doctrine of universal sinfulness inherited from Adam, leading to guilt upon rejecting Christ. Brown teaches that salvation from sin is granted through justification, regeneration, and entire sanctification. He addresses the misinterpretation of scriptures suggesting Christians cannot live above a constant course of sin, providing explanations for challenging texts like Job's poetic language and Paul's struggles in Romans. Brown affirms the possibility of living a sinless life through faith in Christ and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.
Healing in the Plan of Salvation
0ISA 53:5MAT 4:23MAT 8:16ROM 5:12ROM 8:23JAS 5:14Charles Ewing Brown preaches on 'The Faith That Heals,' emphasizing the connection between religion and health throughout history. He discusses the ministry of healing in Christianity and the importance of reuniting the healing of the body with the healing of the soul. Brown explores the concepts of natural and miraculous healings, delving into the understanding of miracles, the laws of nature, and the supernatural. He also addresses the possibility of healing through prayer, the role of divine healing in the atonement, and the ultimate redemption of the body in the resurrection.
How to Keep Saved
01CO 9:24PHP 1:6HEB 10:242PE 1:51JN 4:19Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the importance of discipline, awakening love, fellowship with other believers, the beginning of the Christian life, and the poise of power in the Christian journey. He emphasizes the necessity of discipline in developing one's faith, the awakening of love towards God through prayer and communion, the significance of fellowship with other believers, the understanding that Christian disciplines are the beginning and not the end of the Christian life, and the balance needed to avoid fanaticism and extreme measures in serving God.