This sermon delves into the struggle of seeking self-acceptance before God, only to be met with disappointment and discouragement due to our inherent flaws and shortcomings. It explores how this pursuit of self-righteousness can lead to darkness of mind and bondage of spirit, causing us to lose sight of our acceptance in Christ and fall into despair. The key message emphasizes that our acceptance with God is solely based on Christ and not on our own works or intentions, offering hope and deliverance from the miserable dregs of self.

This sermon delves into the profound spiritual awakening that occurs when one is reborn, where they come face to face with the stark contrasts of God and self, justice and guilt, power and helplessness, and the eternal truths of God's holiness and human sinfulness. It describes the transformative experience of realizing the existence of God for the first time, akin to awakening from a long slumber and recognizing the futility of a life spent in trivial pursuits and religious formalities without true understanding.

In this sermon transcript titled "Toys and Playthings of the Religious Baby House," J.C. Philpot emphasizes the importance of feeding the soul with God's appointed food. He compares hungry children who cannot be satisfied with mere playthings to hungry souls in need of true spiritual nourishment. Philpot asserts that religious rituals, ceremonies, and external displays cannot satisfy the deep hunger for God. Instead, he emphasizes that Christ, the bread of life, is the only true sustenance for the believing soul, referencing passages from Ezekiel, Psalms, and John. The sermon encourages listeners to seek the true nourishment of their souls in Christ alone.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of putting on the whole armor of God to withstand the real and fierce spiritual battles every child of God faces. He describes each piece of the heavenly armor, emphasizing the necessity of Christian sincerity, Christ's imputed righteousness, the gospel of peace, salvation, faith, and the word of God. Philpot highlights the significance of faith and prayer in taking, wearing, and using the armor effectively, urging believers to be vigilant and persevering in prayer to maintain their spiritual defense. He warns against complacency after victory, stressing the continual need to stand firm in the armor of God to resist the devil's schemes.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the unquenchable and strong love of God, highlighting how love is a sure mark of a new birth and alienation from God is marked by hatred. He explains the hidden nature of grace, the struggle against corruption, the enmity of the carnal mind, and the presence of guilty fear that can obscure the evidence of God's love in the heart. Philpot emphasizes that divine love is priceless, unquenchable, and stronger than death, sin, and eternal death, manifesting as a sealed attestation of God's affection on the believer's heart and arm.

J.C. Philpot delves into the deceptive schemes of the devil, highlighting the ignorance many have regarding the advancing enemies of God's truth like Popery, Infidelity, and Spiritualism. He emphasizes the importance of not being outwitted by Satan's cunning tricks and urges believers to put on the whole armor of God to stand firm. Philpot warns against the dangers of being unaware of the spiritual battles surrounding us, especially in the forms of Popery, Infidelity, and Spiritualism, which target different dispositions of the human heart.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the countless treasures found in the Bible, highlighting how the Scriptures are often heard without interest or understanding by many, leading to dangerous errors and stumbling in religious matters. He contrasts the darkness of those without divine light with the enlightening work of the Spirit in believers, guiding them to see their fallen state, the holiness of God, and the way of salvation through Christ. Philpot emphasizes the necessity of divine teaching to truly comprehend and apply the truths of Scripture, showing that without a living faith, the word of God remains a dark enigma to the unregenerate heart.

The preacher delves into the significance of the stroke (KJV = tittle) in the Hebrew letters, emphasizing its importance in distinguishing one letter from another. Jesus stressed the vital nature of every letter and word in the Old Testament, affirming that every aspect of the Law and the Prophets would be fulfilled. The sermon explores the meticulous attention Jewish teachers gave to preserving every stroke and letter in the Law of Moses. Jesus' teaching highlights the immutability of Scripture, asserting that not even the smallest detail of the Law would pass away until it was accomplished.

J.C. Philpot reflects on the remarkable life of William Tiptaft, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to self-denial, stewardship, and practical godliness. Tiptaft's dedication to living for God, serving His people, and obeying His will set him apart as a shining example of vital godliness and consistent Christian living. His fear of God was evident throughout his life, leading him to separate from the world, prioritize solitude and reflection, and exhibit a seriousness of character that inspired many. Despite his boldness and zeal for God, Tiptaft also displayed deep sympathy and solidarity with the poor, earning him the reputation of being 'the poor man's friend.'

J.C. Philpot preaches about the progression of faith in the soul, starting with the acknowledgment of darkness and the need to heed the sure Word of prophecy, leading to the dawn of a general sense of God's mercy, then the arising of the day star with a particular promise applied to the heart, and finally the Sun of righteousness shining with healing in His wings, bringing personal revelation and assurance of salvation. He emphasizes that though faith may lead to different experiences, it is the same faith working in various ways, like the eye seeing different objects or the hand touching different textures.

J.C. Philpot preaches on the transformative power of the righteousness and blood of Christ, emphasizing how they purify the heart, instill a hatred for sin, and elevate the preciousness of Jesus Christ. Through this purification process, peace is found in gratitude, and a deep desire to live for God's glory and honor is ignited within the soul.

J.C. Philpot preaches on the vanity of all creature enjoyments and the importance of experiencing the killing and healing work of grace in the soul. Through the examples of King Solomon, he emphasizes the need to be broken down in self-abasement before God and exalt Jesus as the only Savior. Philpot highlights the continuous cycle of breaking down and building up in a Christian's life, leading to a deep sense of mourning over sin and a spiritual joy that allows one to dance before the Lord.

J.C. Philpot preaches on the prophecy from Isaiah 40:4-5, emphasizing the figurative language of obstacles being removed for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. He delves into the spiritual and experiential exalting of valleys, making low mountains, straightening crooked paths, and smoothing rough places to reveal the glory of the Lord. Philpot highlights the need for a revelation of Christ to the soul to bring comfort, peace, and solid ground for faith. He assures that all obstacles will be overcome, all flesh will see the glory of the Lord, and God's promises will surely come to pass.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the profound mercy of God as depicted in Micah 7:18-19, highlighting God's delight in mercy, manifestation of mercy in pardoning sins, and the challenge to find a God like Him who pardons iniquity and subdues sins. Philpot emphasizes that God's attributes are inseparable from Him, and His mercy is a delight to bestow upon repentant sinners. He explains how God's mercy manifests in turning away His anger, passing over transgressions, having compassion, and subduing iniquities, ultimately casting all sins into the depths of the sea, making them irrecoverable. Philpot encourages believers to trust in God's complete forgiveness and sanctification, challenging the worshipers of false gods to find a deity capable of pardoning sin like the God of Israel.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the contrast between the spirit of fear, bondage, and darkness that does not come from God, and the spirit of power, love, and a sound mind that are gifts from God. He explains how a Christian possesses two sets of feelings - one bad and one good, and how certain feelings like guilt, distress, and fear may puzzle believers about their source. Philpot delves into the source and effects of slavish fear, emphasizing that God has not given us this fear, but can still work through it for our spiritual good. He then explores the blessings God has given - a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind, highlighting how these gifts enable believers to believe, love, and have a sound judgment in spiritual matters.

J.C. Philpot preaches on Micah 2:13, highlighting the prophetical and experimental meanings of the passage. He emphasizes the role of 'the Breaker,' identified as Immanuel, in leading God's people through great difficulties they cannot overcome on their own. Philpot explains how the Breaker breaks down obstacles like the law, unbelief, and a hard heart, enabling believers to move forward in their spiritual journey. He encourages self-examination to recognize the need for the Breaker in our lives and the evidence of His work through meltings, softenings, and humblings of the heart.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the intense pursuit of God by the soul, emphasizing the need for divine inspiration and strength to follow hard after the Lord. He explains how spiritual needs lead to pursuit, focusing on obtaining righteousness, pardon, and grace from God. Philpot highlights the obstacles like unbelief, doubts, carnality, and presumption that hinder the pursuit, but assures that those who earnestly seek God will eventually overtake Him, as evidenced by their intense longings and desires for His presence.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the God of all grace who calls His people to suffer for a while to make them perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle them. He illustrates how different ministers and writers of the New Testament, though taught by the same Spirit, have unique emphases in their preaching. Philpot emphasizes the importance of suffering in the Christian walk, as it leads to maturity, establishment in faith, spiritual strength, and a settled conviction of God's truth. He encourages the congregation to look to the God of all grace for comfort, revival, and guidance through trials and afflictions, knowing that suffering ultimately leads to a deeper experience of God's mercy and love.

J.C. Philpot reflects on the lives and works of two prominent figures of the Reformation, Martin Luther and John Calvin, highlighting their differences in temperament, approach, and impact. Luther is portrayed as bold, fiery, and action-oriented, while Calvin is depicted as a deep thinker, theologian, and systematic writer. Despite their contrasting styles, both men were powerful intellects, faithful servants of God, and instrumental in the spread of the Reformation. Calvin's return to Geneva after exile is described as a triumph of truth over error, leading to a period of significant influence and impact on the city.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the Lord being a refuge for the oppressed in times of trouble, emphasizing the need for a personal experience with God's perfections, seeking Him sincerely, and putting trust in Him. He delves into the spiritual significance of seeking God, knowing His name, and the assurance that God never forsakes those who seek Him. Philpot encourages self-reflection on one's spiritual journey, highlighting the importance of experiencing God's work in the heart and distinguishing true spiritual life from empty profession.

J.C. Philpot emphasizes the necessity of a ministry filled with the power of God, rather than relying on human wisdom or eloquence. He distinguishes between the ministration of 'the letter' and 'the Spirit,' highlighting the life-giving power of the latter. Philpot stresses the importance of ministers being rooted in their own experience of God's grace and power before they can effectively minister to others. He warns against the dangers of departing from 'experimental truth' and falling into a form of preaching that lacks the genuine power and freshness of the Spirit.

J.C. Philpot preaches on the analogy of the vine and branches, emphasizing the importance of bearing fruit in the Christian life. He delves into the significance of being pruned by God to bring forth more fruit, highlighting the need for spiritual integrity, humility, faith, hope, and heavenly-mindedness. Philpot explains how God removes unfruitful branches from His vine and prunes those bearing fruit to increase their productivity, urging believers to undergo spiritual pruning for growth and maturity.

J.C. Philpot emphasizes that sanctification flows solely from the cross of Christ, not from human efforts like self-imposed penances or rituals. He explains that true inward holiness, necessary to see the Lord, comes from Christ being made sanctification for believers through His blood, Spirit, and grace. Philpot highlights that genuine sanctification involves the Blessed Spirit drawing hearts to heavenly things, overcoming sins, and filling believers with holy thoughts and desires, preparing them for the inheritance of the saints in light.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the need for a great Physician for those who are spiritually sick, drawing parallels from how Jesus dealt with cavilers and critics in the Bible. He emphasizes the importance of feeling the malady of sin, the deep depravity of the fallen nature, and the backsliding and idolatrous tendencies of the heart to truly recognize the need for the healing touch of Jesus. Philpot highlights that the Lord's Hospital is only for the incurables, those who have come to the end of themselves and realize their desperate need for the healing remedies of the great Physician. He encourages believers to seek the balm of Jesus' blood, the only remedy for a guilty conscience, and to trust in His power and willingness to heal all who come to Him in their sickness.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the desperate state of God's people, emphasizing the deep wounds of sin and the need for a profound realization of one's sinful nature to fully appreciate the grace of God. He delves into the remedy provided by God, highlighting the balm in Gilead as the Savior's blood that cleanses from all sin and the need for a skilled Physician who understands every spiritual malady. Philpot addresses the question of why the health of God's people is not recovered, pointing out possible hindrances such as self-righteousness, unbelief, worldly-mindedness, and secret sins that delay the application of the balm and healing by the Physician.