
George Matheson
- Sermons
- Bio
Left Behind
1The Value of the OverlookedService in SilenceNUM 1:49NUM 1:53PSA 37:7ISA 40:31MAT 25:21ROM 12:41CO 12:12GAL 6:9HEB 6:101PE 4:10George Matheson emphasizes the significance of the Levites, who were overlooked and uncounted in the census of Israel, yet held a vital role in maintaining the tabernacle. He illustrates that while they may seem left behind in the world's activities, their duty to wait and watch is crucial for the survival of the nation. Matheson reassures those who feel unnumbered or sidelined in life that their quiet service is invaluable, as it supports the greater purpose of God's work. He encourages individuals to recognize the importance of their unseen contributions, as true greatness often emerges from behind the scenes.
Hope in Waiting
1Patience in FaithHopePSA 27:14PSA 37:7ISA 26:3ISA 40:31LAM 3:26MIC 7:7ROM 8:25HEB 10:23JAS 1:41PE 5:7George Matheson emphasizes the profound relationship between hope and quiet waiting, illustrating that true hope is often measured by the calmness of our waiting. He contrasts the impulsive nature of hope with the serene state of waiting, suggesting that the strongest hope is found in a peaceful heart. Matheson argues that while excitement can weaken hope, a calm demeanor reflects a deep-seated confidence in God's promises. He encourages believers to embrace this 'sublimely happy marriage' of hope and waiting, as it reveals the strength of their faith. Ultimately, he portrays the quietness of waiting as a testament to the assurance of salvation.
Short Biography
0ResilienceFaith in AdversityPSA 119:105ISA 40:31JHN 9:252CO 12:9PHP 4:13George Matheson shares his life story, detailing his birth in Glasgow, Scotland, and his struggle with deteriorating eyesight that led to near-total blindness. Despite this challenge, he excelled academically with the help of his sisters and graduated from the University of Edinburgh, eventually becoming a minister in the Church of Scotland. He served in Innealan for 18 years, where his remarkable memory allowed him to preach without his congregation realizing he was blind. Later, he became the pastor of St. Bernard’s Church in Edinburgh, dedicating his final years to literary pursuits, including the publication of 'Sacred Songs'. Matheson's life exemplifies resilience and dedication to faith despite personal challenges.
O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go
0God's LoveHope in SufferingROM 8:38George Matheson reflects on the profound love of God that sustains and uplifts us, even in our darkest moments. He shares the personal pain he experienced while alone during his sister's wedding, which inspired the creation of his hymn 'O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go.' Matheson emphasizes the themes of surrender, hope, and the transformative power of divine love, illustrating how God's light and joy can penetrate our suffering and lead us to a brighter future. The hymn serves as a testament to the unwavering love of God that never lets us go, even when we feel lost or burdened.
When We Remember
0TransformationGrace and RedemptionEZK 36:26George Matheson emphasizes that true remembrance of our past sins comes only after we have received a new heart from God. He explains that the process of transformation leads us to reflect on our previous wrongdoings only after we have experienced spiritual renewal and growth. This memory serves as a reminder of God's grace and the journey we have taken from sin to redemption. Matheson encourages believers to focus on moving forward and pressing toward the prize, with the understanding that reflection on past failures is a gift that comes later in our spiritual walk. Ultimately, he highlights the importance of recognizing our past to appreciate the depth of God's mercy.
Blind Matheson Penned Immortal Hymn
0SufferingDivine ComfortPSA 30:5PSA 34:18ISA 41:10MAT 11:28JHN 16:33ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 4:72TI 1:71PE 5:7George Matheson, despite his blindness and deep personal anguish on the day of his sister's wedding, experienced a profound moment of inspiration that led him to pen the immortal hymn 'O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go.' In his solitude, he felt an inward voice guiding him, allowing the words of comfort to flow effortlessly from his heart. The hymn reflects themes of love, light, joy, and the cross, encapsulating his struggle and ultimate surrender to God's will. Matheson's experience illustrates how pain can lead to profound spiritual expression and connection with God. His hymn has since become a cherished part of Christian worship.
Riding the Storms
0Divine ProvidenceOvercoming AdversityACT 4:27George Matheson delivers a powerful sermon titled 'Riding the Storms,' emphasizing that opposition to God's will can inadvertently serve His divine purpose. He reflects on Acts 4:27-28, illustrating how Herod and Pontius Pilate's actions against Jesus were actually part of God's plan, turning their opposition into a means of glorifying Christ. Matheson encourages believers to recognize that God does not eliminate storms but rides upon them, using difficult circumstances to fulfill His will. He draws parallels with biblical figures like Joseph and Moses, who faced adversity that ultimately led to God's greater plan. The message reassures us that even in trials, God is at work for our good.
Natural Law
0Divine ProvidenceNatural LawEXO 10:13ISA 55:8George Matheson explores the concept of natural law in the context of God's providence, using the example of the east wind that brought locusts to Egypt as a means of deliverance for His people. He questions why God chose to use a natural phenomenon instead of a more direct intervention, emphasizing that divine actions often come through ordinary channels. Matheson encourages believers to recognize that God's answers to prayers may manifest in everyday occurrences and interactions, urging them to remain open to the ways God communicates through the natural world. He reassures that even when divine help seems delayed or indirect, it is still a manifestation of God's supreme power and care. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper awareness of the divine in the mundane aspects of life.
All Types
0CourageDiversity in GiftsMAT 14:29JHN 13:23JHN 20:4ACT 4:13George Matheson emphasizes the distinct types of boldness exhibited by Peter and John, both of whom derived their courage from their time with Jesus. While Peter's boldness is characterized by action and decisiveness, John's boldness is marked by patience and endurance. Matheson illustrates that Christ equips individuals with different forms of courage to meet the diverse challenges of life, highlighting that both action and waiting are essential in the kingdom of God. He concludes that both types of courage are necessary, as life presents moments for both active engagement and patient endurance.
Law of Liberty
0Freedom in ChristLoveJHN 15:13ROM 13:101CO 13:4GAL 5:13EPH 5:2COL 3:14JAS 2:121PE 4:81JN 3:161JN 4:18George Matheson explores the concept of the 'law of liberty' as presented in James 2:12, arguing against the dichotomy of freedom and bondage. He emphasizes that true freedom is found in love, which binds us willingly while simultaneously empowering our will. Love, he asserts, is both a captivating force and a choice that reflects the deepest desires of our hearts. This union of liberty and law illustrates that our strongest will is expressed through love, which transcends mere obligation. Matheson concludes that love embodies the essence of freedom, merging the seemingly opposing concepts into a harmonious relationship.