
Gilbert K. Chesterton
- Sermons
- Books
- Bio
What's Wrong With the World
0GEN 2:24PSA 127:3PRO 14:1PRO 24:31CO 13:4EPH 5:25COL 3:141TI 5:8HEB 13:41PE 3:7Gilbert K. Chesterton preaches about the importance of the institution of the family and the home, highlighting the unique and essential role it plays in society. He emphasizes the idea that the family is an ancient and anarchist institution, standing outside the State, refreshed or corrupted by forces of custom or kinship. Chesterton argues that the family is a necessity for mankind, a trap for mankind, and a place where individuals can find joy and fulfillment within limits. He discusses the concept of property as a form of limited creation, where individuals can shape something in their own image, reflecting the image of heaven.
Anti-Religious Thought in the Eighteenth Century
0PRO 3:5ROM 12:21CO 1:18COL 2:81PE 3:15Gilbert K. Chesterton delves into the eclipse of Christian theology during the rationalist advance of the eighteenth century, emphasizing the historical episode that has now become distant and distinct. He highlights the co-eternal nature of faith and reason, noting the shift from the Age of Reason to the modern world's intense interest in psychological and psychical matters. Chesterton explores the period when rationalism prevailed, leading to a revolt against dogmatic institutions and a rise in sceptical thoughts, ultimately giving birth to the reign of the rationalist.
The Man Who Knew Too Much
0PSA 33:10PSA 46:10PRO 16:9PRO 19:21PRO 21:30ISA 55:8Gilbert K. Chesterton preaches about the mysterious and elusive Prince Michael, known for his talent of appearing and disappearing at will, leading to a series of daring escapes and adventures. The authorities, led by Sir Walter Carey, attempt to capture Prince Michael, who is hiding in a solitary tower by the sea. However, Prince Michael's cunning and resourcefulness result in a series of unexpected and deadly encounters, leaving the officers stunned and outwitted at every turn.
On the Negative Spirit
0PRO 4:25PRO 29:18ROM 12:21CO 15:33PHP 4:8Gilbert K. Chesterton delves into the comparison between visionary religion and modern morality, emphasizing the contemplation of success in the fight towards ethical ideals. He contrasts the monk's focus on perfect health and happiness with the modern man's dread of insanity. Chesterton highlights the absence of vivid images of purity and spiritual triumph in modern ethics, pointing out the decline in clear idealism. He discusses the evasion of discussing what is good through phrases like 'liberty,' 'progress,' and 'education,' ultimately leading to a lack of definitive images of good in human consciousness.
On Mr. Rudyard Kipling and Making the World Small
0PRO 18:15PRO 22:29ECC 3:1ROM 12:41CO 10:311CO 12:121CO 12:141CO 12:27EPH 4:16COL 3:23Gilbert K. Chesterton delivers a sermon on the importance of being interested in all subjects, emphasizing that the lack of interest, not the subject itself, makes something uninteresting. He defends the value of 'bores' who possess higher qualities like enthusiasm and happiness, contrasting them with the 'bored' who lack these qualities. Chesterton highlights the poetical nature of all things, challenging individuals to find something that is not a matter of poetry, and explores the significance of names and common things being poetical. He discusses Rudyard Kipling's focus on militarism, pointing out that true courage and discipline are essential in all aspects of life, not just in war.
Mr. Bernard Shaw
0PRO 3:51CO 15:58PHP 4:13JAS 1:81PE 5:8Gilbert K. Chesterton delivers a sermon reflecting on the misunderstood figures of Mr. Chamberlain and Mr. Bernard Shaw, highlighting the advantage of being misunderstood and the power of consistency. He contrasts the orator's aim with that of other artists, emphasizing the importance of holding firm to one's beliefs. Chesterton explores Shaw's philosophy, pointing out the flaw in his rejection of moral ideals and his shift towards the religion of the Superman. He concludes by discussing the value of humility and the greatness of man, critiquing Shaw's pursuit of progress over humanity.
Mr. H. G. Wells and the Giants
01SA 16:7PSA 138:6PRO 16:19PRO 22:4ISA 57:15MAT 23:12PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6Gilbert K. Chesterton preaches about the importance of humility, sincerity, and the true nature of heroism. He emphasizes the need to see beyond appearances and recognize the virtues that lie within individuals, even those who may seem hypocritical. Chesterton discusses the paradox of Christian humility leading to incredible achievements and the practical success of Christendom. He also critiques the modern scientific outlook, highlighting the necessity of caring for important things like marriage with a sense of recklessness and passion. Chesterton concludes by reflecting on the lost art of war, where true heroism lies in defying the powerful and championing the cause of the weak.