
John Henry Jowett
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The Disciple's Sacrifice
0MAT 16:24ROM 8:172CO 1:5PHP 1:29PHP 3:10COL 1:24HEB 13:131PE 2:211PE 4:13REV 12:11John Henry Jowett preaches on the concept of filling up what is behind in the sufferings of Christ, emphasizing that while Jesus' sacrifice on Calvary is complete and all-sufficient, believers are called to continue His sacrificial work by sharing in His sufferings through ministry, intercession, beneficence, and service. Jowett highlights the importance of having a sacrificial spirit, vividly conscious of personal redemption, to truly fill up what is lacking in Christ's sufferings. He challenges listeners to be in the sacrificial succession, shedding blood in various forms of sacrificial living, echoing the sacrificial examples of martyrs and missionaries who have gone before us.
The Disciple's Tenderness
0PSA 27:4HOS 2:19MAT 19:14ROM 12:91CO 13:13EPH 5:1COL 3:121PE 3:151JN 4:19John Henry Jowett preaches on the beautiful figure of being betrothed to God forever, emphasizing the ideal relationship between the soul and its Lord as a marriage covenant. He highlights the importance of Christian ministry aiming to bring souls into this covenant with God, focusing on winning children into a marriage-contract with the Lord. Jowett discusses the significance of revealing Jesus to children through His simplicity, sympathy, heroism, and the hope He offers, ultimately leading to a deep spiritual devotion. He stresses the need for consistency in the lives of those who are wooing others for God, as living out the Gospel message authentically is crucial in the process of winning hearts for the Lord.
The Disciple's Watching for Souls
0PSA 126:5PRO 11:30ISA 40:31MAT 4:191CO 9:22EPH 4:11PHP 4:42TI 2:151PE 5:2John Henry Jowett emphasizes the serious work of watching for souls, acknowledging the inadequacy of preachers and the need for continuous improvement in their ministry. Reflecting on Thomas Boston's earnest desire to be a fisher of men, Jowett highlights the importance of being Christ-formed and Christ-given in our ministry. He urges preachers to keep themselves out of sight, cultivate cheeriness and praise, study the individuals they are trying to reach, learn from experienced fishers like John Wesley and the Salvation Army, and focus on the joy of winning souls to maintain passion and drive in their ministry.
The Disciple's Companion
0JHN 7:38JHN 14:16ACT 19:1ROM 8:261CO 2:102CO 3:17GAL 5:22EPH 5:181TH 5:19John Henry Jowett preaches on the importance of receiving the Holy Ghost after believing, emphasizing the need for a deep, intimate companionship with the Spirit rather than just a mental acknowledgment. He highlights how many in the modern Church may be living in a pre-Pentecostal state, lacking the fullness and power of the Spirit in their daily lives. Jowett urges believers to move from a mere mental understanding of the Holy Ghost to a vibrant, experiential relationship that transforms and empowers them, enabling them to bear the fruits of the Spirit and minister effectively.
The Disciple's Rest
0PSA 23:2PSA 37:7PSA 46:10PSA 62:1ISA 26:3MAT 11:282CO 12:9PHP 4:7HEB 4:9John Henry Jowett preaches on the invitation of Jesus to come to Him for rest, emphasizing that this rest is a gift of grace, not earned through toil or culture. He explains that while the rest is immediate, it is also a continuous discovery as we learn from Jesus. Jowett highlights the importance of the Church embracing a restful disposition in the midst of the world's restlessness, urging believers to find strength and assurance in the restful realization of the Lord's presence and the wealth and power of their allies in grace and circumstances.
The Disciple's Vision
0MIC 4:1MIC 4:6John Henry Jowett preaches about the importance of having a vision for the future, drawing from Micah 4:1. He emphasizes the need to envision a 'golden age' in our minds to guide our present actions and endeavors. Whether it's in parenting, teaching, or ministering to the marginalized, having a clear vision of what could be shapes our efforts and influences those we serve. Just like great reformers and influencers throughout history, we are called to see beyond the present circumstances and work towards a better future, focusing on spiritual values, unity in worship, transforming destructive forces into constructive actions, and providing comfort and peace for all.
Count Your Blessings
0PSA 16:5PSA 103:2PSA 105:6PSA 116:12PSA 126:3John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of counting our blessings in every area of our lives, including personal struggles and disappointments, as well as the blessings inherited from the sacrifices of those who came before us. He encourages the congregation to search for tokens of the Lord's presence even in the darkest patches of life, reminding them that mercies abound on every hand.
The Flowers That Never Fade
0PSA 103:151CO 2:161CO 9:25PHP 4:81PE 1:4John Henry Jowett emphasizes the eternal nature of God's inheritance compared to temporary possessions on earth, using the example of taking the landscape of Arran with him wherever he goes. He contrasts the fading praise of men with the enduring praise of God, which grows more beautiful with time and is a source of comfort even in death. Jowett encourages wearing the 'garland of God's praise' by cultivating a mindset aligned with Christ's.
The Unknown Journey
0PSA 32:8PRO 3:5ISA 30:21HEB 11:8John Henry Jowett emphasizes the story of Abram's journey as a powerful example of faith, highlighting how Abram stepped out without knowing his final destination, demonstrating obedience to God's will without full understanding of the consequences. Faith, as described, focuses on the present moment, trusting in God's guidance for the immediate step without worrying about the entire journey. This kind of faith brings serenity, preventing anxiety about the past or future, and instead, allowing believers to feel the comforting presence of God's guiding hand in the present.
The Larger Outlook
0PSA 19:1ISA 55:9MAT 28:19ACT 1:8John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of expanding our perspective and thoughts to align with God's grand purposes and will. Using Abraham as an example, he illustrates how God leads us out of our limitations to see the vastness of His plans. Jowett challenges the listeners to examine the breadth of their love and prayers, urging them to move beyond selfish confines to embrace a more extensive, inclusive approach that encompasses the world.
The Never-Failing Springs
0DEU 31:6PSA 23:1ISA 41:18ISA 58:112CO 12:9John Henry Jowett emphasizes the unchanging nature of God's promises, likening them to springs that never run dry, but rather reveal a richer abundance in times of need. Just as Apostle Paul found joy in his weaknesses as they led him to experience the richness of God's grace, we too can bring our needs to God and receive His abundant blessings. The promise of God's covenant is ever-fresh, providing strength and sustenance for each day, ensuring that His provision will never run out.
The God of Their Succeeding Race
0GEN 17:7ISA 58:11ACT 2:39EPH 1:3HEB 13:8John Henry Jowett preaches about the unchanging covenant of God with His people, highlighting how the promise made to Abraham extends to his descendants, emphasizing that death cannot nullify God's promises in the realm of grace. He uses the analogy of a village well that continues to provide for generations without needing to be replaced, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's grace and salvation. Jowett encourages believers to tap into the spiritual resources of Abraham and the Apostle Paul, reminding them that all the strength and blessings given to these great figures are also available to every believer, enabling them to reach great heights and share in their triumph.
A Journal of Mercies
0PSA 77:11John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of keeping a journal of mercies, inspired by Frances Ridley Havergal's practice of recording God's goodness in her life. By actively seeking and acknowledging God's grace and bounty in our lives, we can experience a deeper communion with Him. Remembering past blessings can dispel fears and provide courage for the present challenges we face, allowing us to march through difficulties with songs of praise.
He Is Faithful!
0NUM 23:191KI 8:56PSA 89:342CO 1:20HEB 10:23John Henry Jowett emphasizes the unwavering faithfulness of God's promises, highlighting that not a single word of His promises has ever failed, ensuring our trust and reliance on His unfailing love and provision. He reassures that God's fidelity is unbroken, His music of grace and mercy is continuous, and His faithfulness is like a solid road that never gives way. Jowett reminds the congregation that God's love never fails, providing constant light in darkness, sustenance in barrenness, and comfort in times of distress, assuring that every promise will be fulfilled by the faithful God who cannot deny Himself.
The Perils of Possessions
0PSA 37:16PRO 11:28MAT 6:241TI 6:10JAS 5:1John Henry Jowett preaches about the divisive nature of wealth, highlighting how riches can lead to alienation within families and the awakening of hidden vices. Success often breeds selfishness, envy, jealousy, and other negative traits, increasing temptations and challenges. Despite the dangers of prosperity, God can protect us from its harmful effects, as seen in the example of Abram who remained unscathed and close to God even as his wealth grew.
The Lust of the Eye
0GEN 13:10GEN 13:14PSA 37:4PRO 16:7MAT 6:33John Henry Jowett contrasts the choices of Lot and Abram in Genesis 13:10-18, highlighting Lot's worldly perspective focused on material gain and self-interest, leading him to overlook the sinful city of Sodom, which ultimately brought his downfall. In contrast, Abram's calm and God-centered approach prioritized peace and fellowship over personal gain, leading him to experience God's blessings and companionship along the unselfish path.
Self-Made or God-Made
0JHN 15:5GAL 5:22EPH 3:16COL 3:12John Henry Jowett emphasizes the contrast between the self-made, selfish ways of individuals like Shylock and the graceful beauty of the lilies of the field, highlighting how one is rooted in self-will while the other is rooted in the power of Divine grace. He points out that just as the lilies draw grace from God, we too can be rooted in His power and clothe ourselves in the beauty of holiness, becoming like kindred flowers in God's garden. By abiding in Christ and allowing Him to dwell in us, we can bear much fruit and grow in all aspects towards Him.
Two Opposites
0MAT 6:24JAS 4:41JN 2:15REV 22:1John Henry Jowett emphasizes the impossibility of loving both God and the world simultaneously, drawing parallels to walking in contrary directions or dressing for different climates. He highlights the need for a clear choice between God and the world, as attempting to compromise leads to a shallow, ritualistic faith that displeases God. Jowett urges listeners to make a decisive choice in their affections, knowing that embracing the love of God will naturally extinguish worldly desires, leading to a life filled with the purity and clarity of God's love.
The Miracle in a Dry Place
0PSA 23:2PSA 107:35PSA 119:105ISA 41:17MAT 6:8John Henry Jowett preaches about the miracles of grace, emphasizing how God can turn dry and difficult experiences into sources of blessing and consolation. He highlights the idea that even in the toughest times, God's providence goes before His faithful followers, ensuring that their needs are foreseen and provided for. Jowett encourages not to fear when faced with wilderness experiences, as God is present everywhere, providing sustenance and unexpected blessings. He assures that in every situation, whether in desert places or lush meadows, God's provision is abundant, offering peace and comfort.
Forgetting God
01TI 6:17John Henry Jowett preaches about the danger of forgetting the Lord in times of prosperity, using the analogy of a castle hidden by summer foliage to illustrate how material wealth can obscure our eternal treasure. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining transparency in our view of material blessings, allowing them to point us towards the unseen spiritual realities and our treasure in heaven, rather than becoming distractions that lead us away from God.
The Ministry of Praise
0PSA 34:1PSA 77:11PSA 103:2PSA 115:12John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of reflecting on God's past faithfulness as a source of hope for the future. By remembering and praising God for His blessings and provisions in the past, our hearts are filled with confidence and our worries fade away. Jowett highlights how praise is essential for nurturing other virtues and graces in our lives, breathing life into them and ushering in a radiant spirit of hope.
The Distinction of Being Recognized
0PSA 139:1JHN 10:3JHN 10:14EPH 2:10PHP 4:13John Henry Jowett preaches about the personal attention and care that the Good Shepherd, Jesus, has for each of His sheep, knowing them by name and valuing their individual contributions to His Kingdom. He emphasizes that even in moments of self-doubt or feeling insignificant, Jesus misses and needs each person to fulfill their unique role in His grand design. Jowett encourages his listeners to recognize the power of God's grace in their lives, enabling them to accomplish wonders beyond their own understanding.
Spiritual Discernment
01KI 19:12PSA 32:8JHN 10:27JHN 12:261CO 15:22John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in recognizing the voice of the Lord amidst life's distractions and challenges. He highlights the need for believers to develop a keen ear to hear God's voice in times of sorrow and joy, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with Him. Obedience to the Lord's call is essential for spiritual growth and sharpening our ability to listen to His voice, resulting in a life filled with vitality and eternal significance.
False Shepherds
0EZK 34:2LUK 19:101JN 3:16John Henry Jowett delivers a powerful sermon on Ezekiel 34:1-10, exposing the characteristics of false shepherds who are self-seeking, feeding themselves instead of the flock, driven by carnal ambition rather than holy service. These shepherds lack sympathy, failing to strengthen the diseased or heal the sick, as selfishness numbs their ability to empathize. Without sympathy, there is no genuine quest to seek the lost sheep, highlighting the importance of sacrificial love and a heart that mirrors the compassionate pursuit of Jesus.
The Disciple's Theme
0ROM 16:71CO 1:272CO 12:9EPH 3:8PHP 4:131TI 1:151PE 4:101JN 4:16John Henry Jowett preaches about the profound humility and absolute confidence of the Apostle Paul in proclaiming the unsearchable riches of Christ. The Apostle's sense of unworthiness is contrasted with his triumphant assurance in the redeeming grace that can destroy sin, transfigure sorrow, and rectify broken relationships. Jowett emphasizes the need for preachers to feel unworthy yet confident in their calling to proclaim the Gospel, just as Paul did, recognizing that the grace given to preach is essential for sharing the good news of Christ's riches with the world.