John Gifford Bellett preaches on the importance of obedience in marriage as a test of the state of the nation, tracing the decline from Abraham's faithful example to Judah's complete apostasy in the matter. The command to keep the way of the Lord in marriage was a crucial principle, evident from the earliest days of Genesis to the later generations of the elect family, showing a pattern of gradual but solemn declension leading to apostasy.

John Gifford Bellett emphasizes the humility and servanthood of Christ Jesus, who, though in the form of God, took on the form of a servant and became like man. Bellett illustrates how Jesus, despite His divine nature, concealed His glory and performed miracles in a humble manner, such as paying tribute with a miraculous provision, quietly attending a wedding feast, and calming a storm as a tired man. Through these actions, Jesus demonstrated His true identity as the Creator and Lord of all, hidden beneath His humble exterior.

John Gifford Bellett reflects on the early days of the 'Brethren' movement, noting the independent and original teaching of the Spirit of God in various places that led individuals to come together in unity. He recounts the influence of key figures like John N. Darby, Anthony N. Groves, and Edward Cronin, who were instrumental in shaping the movement's direction towards a simpler, more spiritual form of worship. Bellett highlights the importance of following the leading of the Holy Spirit in establishing a testimony to a rejected and heavenly Jesus, separate from the world's ways, and emphasizes the need for continual revival and fresh outpouring of God's grace to sustain such a spiritual work.

John Gifford Bellett preaches on the importance of living a fruitful and purposeful life, drawing from the contrasting examples of Isaac, Abraham, Moses, David, and Paul. Bellett emphasizes the significance of not rusting out like Isaac but remaining steadfast and productive in serving God until the end, like the other faithful servants of God. He highlights the lessons we can learn from the lives of these biblical figures, showing the consequences of being laid aside, recovering oneself, or defiling oneself in the journey of faith.

John Gifford Bellett emphasizes the diverse ways in which the light of God approaches and enters the soul, whether gently or with force, focusing on the unique work God does in each individual's heart, be it on the conscience, understanding, or deeper within. Through examples like the Eunuch, Saul, Cornelius, Lydia, and the jailer in Acts, he illustrates how God's work varies in intensity and approach based on the individual's disposition and need for Jesus, highlighting the necessity of Jesus in bringing true life to every soul, regardless of their background or character.

John Gifford Bellett emphasizes the unique and narrow path of the Church, highlighting the need for her virtues and morals to be of a divine quality, distinct from those of the world. Bellett discusses the importance of the Church's discipline and how it differs from societal norms, urging believers to uphold sanctity in all aspects of life. He warns about the prevalence of error in the last days, urging Christians to stay pure and focus on nourishing the good rather than exposing all forms of evil. Bellett also touches on the revival of Catholicism and the need for believers to focus on the rejected Jesus and the coming glory beyond the present challenges and apostate movements.

John Gifford Bellett emphasizes the importance of maintaining separation from those who dishonor Christ, likening it to standing at the door of God's house and refusing entrance to those who come from places where Christ is dishonored. Bellett discusses the presence of formalism, socialism, and divine holiness in the church, highlighting the need for believers to uphold divine holiness even in the face of societal pressures and trends towards compromise. He stresses the importance of obedience to God's principles as revealed in His Word, which may require believers to separate from certain practices or associations for the sake of divine holiness.

John Gifford Bellett delves into the distinction between earthly and heavenly things as discussed in John 3, emphasizing the necessity of the new birth for entry into God's kingdom. Jesus is portrayed as the great distinct prophet of heavenly things, contrasting with the earthly teachings of the old prophets. Drawing parallels between Moses and Jesus, it is highlighted that while Moses had intimate access to God, the Son shares the deepest intimacies with God, revealing heavenly and earthly matters to believers.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the various confusion and challenges that Jesus faced in His earthly ministry, dealing with political and religious authorities, His disciples, and the different regions of Galilee, Judea, and Samaria. Despite the chaos, Jesus' path shone brightly, untouched by darkness, showcasing His ability to answer every challenge with wisdom and grace. Bellett emphasizes that like Jesus, we too must navigate through the confusion and challenges of our daily lives, knowing that order will eventually prevail in God's perfect timing, as seen in various biblical examples.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the heavenly calling bestowed upon the saints, emphasizing the high calling of God in Christ Jesus and the exceeding riches of His grace to be revealed in the ages to come. The participation in this heavenly calling was a mystery revealed only to the church, where God abounds in wisdom and prudence, making known His will and the mind of Christ. The saints, as partakers of this calling, have the Son as their prophet, revealing the deep things of God and the glory of the Father. The distinction between Israel and the church is highlighted, with Israel representing the earthly people and the church representing the heavenly family.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the elevated communion of the soul with God, emphasizing joy in God, delight in Christ, and occupation with Himself. The communion described is of a consciously pardoned, accepted, and loved sinner, focusing on spiritual backsliding and maintaining fervor towards Christ. Believers are urged to detect and repent of temporary slothfulness of heart, aiming for a delicate and tender relationship with Jesus, filled with peace and spiritual joy.

John Gifford Bellett preaches on the importance of discipline in preserving us for future blessings, emphasizing that it does not exalt us in this present world. Using the parable of the cedar and the two eagles in Ezekiel, he illustrates how accepting God's discipline leads to blessing and exaltation, while rebellion leads to shame and ruin. Bellett also highlights the humbling and exaltation of Jehoiachin and Zedekiah as examples of accepting God's correction for purification and growth.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the different measures of attainment in knowledge and grace among the churches of old, highlighting the unique conditions and teachings of each church. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between correction of errors and feeding with wisdom, drawing parallels between the churches in Corinth, Ephesus, Galatia, Rome, Philippi, Colosse, and Thessalonica. Bellett discusses the need for mutual understanding, patience, and trust in God's timing, focusing on the hope of the saints' rapture to meet the Lord in the air before His descent to the earth, and the subsequent stages of ascension to the Father and the final glorious return with the Lord for judgment and reign.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the distinction between God's assertion of His title to the earth and His call out of the earth, emphasizing the saints' role in being called out of the world while still living in it. The sermon explores historical examples like the family of Seth, Abraham, and the Church, illustrating how they interacted with the earth without contending for it. Bellett highlights the importance of serving Christ as the rejected One, not seeking to assert His title to the earth, and warns against linking the Church with the world or acting on apostate principles.

John Gifford Bellett preaches on the importance of sanctification through God's truth, emphasizing that holiness is determined by God's word and not by our own moral sense; thus, our conscience must align with the truth for true sanctification. He highlights the need for believers to separate themselves from the world and its systems, drawing parallels from biblical instances of sanctification through separation. Bellett warns against worldly influences, such as the mystic Babylon, that exalt themselves in defiance of Christ's rejection, urging Christians to maintain companionship with a rejected and heavenly Christ for true holiness.

John Gifford Bellett preaches on the moral corruption witnessed by Jeremiah in Jerusalem, the discipline experienced by Ezekiel among the remnant, and Daniel's placement among the Gentiles in Babylon. The first six chapters of Daniel reveal the progression of Gentile iniquity through the stories of Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, and Darius, showcasing persecution, idolatry, self-indulgence, and self-exaltation. Belshazzar's feast symbolizes the present easy, self-indulgent, and worldly moment, where the rejection of Christ is forgotten, and man glorifies in the world's capabilities. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being separated from the world, like Daniel, and having a single eye focused on Christ to discern the true nature of worldly events and avoid being ensnared by the spirit of the last days.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about God's jealousy of His sovereignty and holiness, emphasizing His rights as Lord of the people and the God of their Sanctuary. The chapters in Numbers reflect God's assertion of His title over Israel by carefully counting and knowing each tribe, showcasing His sovereignty and ownership over His people. The separation of the Levites and the house of Aaron highlights God's holiness in the sanctuary, with a deep reverence for the ordained order and mysteries within. These chapters serve as a reminder of God's sovereign power and unapproachable holiness, demanding respect and obedience even from the closest servants and priests.

John Gifford Bellett preaches on the significance of the ark and the camp during the journey through the wilderness, emphasizing the need for the camp to guide and guard the ark, symbolizing subjection to God's will, dependence on His guidance, and conscious liberty. Bellett draws parallels between the camp's journey and our spiritual journey, highlighting the importance of maintaining the truths represented by the tabernacle and its furniture, especially in relation to Christ's honor. He stresses the necessity of confessing the truth about Jesus Christ's deity, as seen in the Epistles of John, and the duty to maintain the honor of His name, even if our own safety were not at stake.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the present times of advancing evil and the rivalry between ecclesiastical and civil powers, with the expectation of the ecclesiastical power prevailing for a time before yielding to the civil power. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good conscience toward Christ and the truth, being separate from the world, and looking for the sure and happy days beyond the present corruption and coming judgment. Bellett draws parallels between the prophet Jeremiah's faith, hope for the future, and unwavering conclusions of faith despite temporary circumstances, urging believers to walk by the light of God through darkness that may seem like light.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the contemplation of hostile associations among men and nations as depicted in various Scriptures, warning about the spirit, purpose, and working of civil or worldly associations that can influence the character and history of the world. Bellett highlights the dangers of confederacies formed against God, drawing parallels from the confederacy at Babel and the opposition faced by Jesus from diverse groups. He emphasizes the importance of separation from worldly alliances and the need to remain faithful to the truth of Jesus amidst the alluring advancements of the world, symbolized by the unclean spirit returning with seven others to a swept house. Bellett urges believers to maintain holiness through separation, akin to the apostle Paul's example, and to be vigilant against the deceptive schemes of the world that seek to corrupt the church's purity and divert from the cross of Christ.

John Gifford Bellett preaches on the various trials faced by believers as outlined in the Epistle of 1 Peter. He emphasizes the importance of enduring these trials with faith, hope, and a good conscience, finding comfort in the consolations provided by God. Believers are encouraged to face trials of faith, suffering from ill-treatment, martyrdom, and the struggle for holiness with the assurance that God's mighty hand will ultimately exalt them. The sermon highlights the need to cast all cares upon God, resist the devil's temptations, and trust in the strength and settlement provided by the grace of God.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the abundant joy found in God's presence, as seen in the opening of Luke where angels and filled human vessels express joy in the Holy Ghost. Believing sinners like Peter, the healed palsied man, Levi, and the children of the bride-chamber also exhibit this joy in different ways, showcasing the kingdom of God's feature of 'joy in the Holy Ghost.' This joy, experienced through our Lord Jesus Christ, is transformative, leading to actions like leaving behind worldly possessions and feasting in the presence of the Bridegroom. Believers are encouraged to find strength in the joy of the Lord and to delight in pleasing God, knowing that joy in God is the crowning experience of the soul.

John Gifford Bellett delves into the exquisitely beautiful scripture of Luke 2, highlighting how the new creation in the Child of Bethlehem fulfills God's purposes more abundantly than the old creation, displaying God's glory perfectly in Jesus Christ. The blessing, peace, and life that Jesus imparts are infallible and eternal, contrasting with the potential for loss in the old creation. The presence of God's glory no longer alarms but emboldens, as seen with the shepherds and in the book of Revelation, teaching that joy and praise should accompany encounters with heavenly beings.

John Gifford Bellett preaches about the heavenly Jerusalem as the Lamb's bride, distinct from Messiah's kingdom, emphasizing the importance of keeping the earthly Zion in its rightful place. He traces the bride's history from Genesis to Revelation, highlighting the heavenly link established between earthly Zion and the Lamb's bride. Bellett discusses the heavenly city's perfection and the three pathways to glory for the Church. He delves into the significance of the golden city as the place of kings and priests, emphasizing the continuity of God's light and blessings through different dispensations.

John Gifford Bellett discusses the various fears expressed by the Spirit concerning the churches, including warnings against Judaizing, infidelity, abusing grace, and worldliness. In 2 Corinthians, the apostle addresses the fear of worldliness specifically in the Corinthian church, where they were influenced by a man of worldly advantages and were drawn to outward appearances. The apostle contrasts his own ministry, focused on spiritual strength and weakness in Christ, with the corrupting influence of the worldly man in Corinth, urging believers not to be unequally yoked with such influences.