Look Good on Sunday
E.A. Johnston warns that outward appearances of faith on Sunday are not enough without true conviction, genuine repentance, and a living relationship with Christ.
In this challenging sermon, E.A. Johnston exposes the danger of superficial Christianity that focuses on outward appearances rather than true spiritual transformation. He calls listeners to examine their hearts for genuine conviction of sin, being born again, and living as doers of the Word. Johnston warns against mistaking church attendance and membership for salvation, urging a sincere relationship with Christ as the only assurance of eternal life.
Full Transcript
I have been deeply familiar with some churches in my time, and I can honestly say they sure looked fine. A nice bunch of church people who look good on Sunday, singing and smiling and laughing and talking. A nice bunch of church people who look good on Sunday.
They look good on Sunday. But they've never known conviction of sin. They're blind to the condition they're in.
They've never been born from above, nor ever been washed in the blood. But they still look good on Sunday, from pulpit to pew. And they'll want you to join their congregation too.
But Jesus says to them, I never knew you. They look good on Sunday, but they're not doers of the word. They don't love others because they don't love God.
But they look good on Sunday, and someday will be in hell with all the other lost church members who mistook church membership for salvation as well.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The appearance of church people on Sunday
- The danger of superficial faith
- The difference between looking good and being saved
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II
- Conviction of sin as essential
- The necessity of being born again
- The washing of the blood for true cleansing
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III
- Jesus’ warning about false believers
- The importance of being doers of the Word
- True love for God and others as evidence of salvation
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IV
- The eternal consequences of false assurance
- Mistaking church membership for salvation
- Call to examine one’s own faith
Key Quotes
“They look good on Sunday, but they've never known conviction of sin.” — E.A. Johnston
“Jesus says to them, I never knew you.” — E.A. Johnston
“They'll want you to join their congregation too, but they still look good on Sunday, from pulpit to pew.” — E.A. Johnston
Application Points
- Examine your heart to ensure your faith is genuine and not just outward appearance.
- Seek true conviction of sin that leads to repentance and transformation.
- Live as a doer of the Word, demonstrating love for God and others.