
John Nelson Darby
- Sermons
- Bio
An Address on John 14
1Association with ChristThe Role of the Holy SpiritJHN 14:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound connection between Christ and His followers, illustrating how Jesus desires for us to understand our association with Him. He explains that despite Christ's rejection, He tirelessly works to assure us of His love and care, culminating in the promise of the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. Darby highlights the importance of knowing Christ as the way to the Father and the necessity of obedience as a demonstration of our love for Him. He reassures believers of their blessed position in Christ and the peace that comes from this relationship, urging them to keep their hearts focused on Him. Ultimately, Darby calls for a deep, personal connection with Christ, encouraging believers to rejoice in His happiness as they cling to Him.
Jehovah My Shepherd Psalm 23
1God as ShepherdAssurance of SalvationPSA 23:1HEB 10:19John Nelson Darby expounds on Psalm 23, emphasizing that the blessings from the Lord as our Shepherd are both spiritual and temporal. He highlights the significance of the veil being torn, allowing believers to approach God with confidence, knowing their sins are forgiven through Christ's sacrifice. Darby reassures that God’s care leads us to spiritual restoration and peace, enabling us to face life's challenges without fear. He stresses that true happiness comes from understanding God’s love and provision, which allows us to dwell in His presence forever. Ultimately, the sermon conveys that God's goodness and mercy accompany us throughout our lives, culminating in eternal fellowship with Him.
Forgiveness and Salvation
1New Creation in ChristForgivenessJHN 3:16ROM 8:12CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:6COL 3:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the distinction between being lost and having sins, arguing that many do not recognize their lost state or their salvation. He explains that while forgiveness addresses our sins, true salvation involves being made a new creation in Christ, separate from the first Adam. Darby stresses that the moral history of man ended with Christ's sacrifice, and believers are now seated in heavenly places with Him, free from the law of sin and death. He urges Christians to understand their identity in Christ and to live out their faith, recognizing that they are no longer in the flesh but in the Spirit. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of salvation as a transformative experience rather than mere forgiveness.
The Counsel of Peace
0Peace in ChristAssurance of SalvationZEC 6:13ROM 5:1PHP 4:6John Nelson Darby emphasizes the 'Counsel of Peace' between God and Jesus, illustrating how all prophecies ultimately point to Christ and His glory. He explains that true peace is not merely a feeling but a profound assurance rooted in the completed work of Christ, who serves as our High Priest. Darby reassures believers that despite present trials, they can experience God's peace, which is independent of their circumstances. He highlights that this peace is established through Christ's sacrifice and is a gift from God, meant to sustain believers amidst their struggles. Ultimately, the sermon calls for reliance on Christ alone for peace, rather than on personal efforts or feelings.
No More Conscience of Sins
0PSA 144:4MAT 9:9MAT 20:30MRK 1:16MRK 15:21JHN 9:11CO 7:311JN 2:81JN 2:17The preacher delves into the meaning of 'passing away' (parago) in the Bible, highlighting its various senses such as leading past, leading aside, and going out of existence. Through examples in the New Testament, the concept of passing away is illustrated in instances where Jesus passed by individuals, emphasizing the transient nature of the world and its desires. The sermon emphasizes the brevity of earthly life, the importance of doing the will of God, and finding eternal significance in obedience to Him.
The Sufferings of Christ
0In this sermon on being entrusted, the preacher delves into the concept of 'paratheke,' which refers to a deposit or trust committed to another for faithful keeping. Paul uses this term to exhort Timothy to guard the deposit of truth and avoid worldly distractions. The imagery of entrusting something precious to another for safekeeping is likened to our relationship with Christ, where we deposit our lives into His care, trusting Him completely. The sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting Christ with our lives, knowing that He is able to guard what we have committed to Him until the day of judgment.
Living Water
0MAT 13:3HEB 9:9The preacher delves into the meaning of 'parabole,' which signifies a comparison or placing something beside another for the purpose of illustration. This term is used in various contexts in the Bible, such as in the parables of Jesus and the Old Testament tabernacle serving as a symbol pointing to Christ. The Old Covenant rituals and sacrifices were like a 'picture book' teaching spiritual truths until the time of Christ's sacrifice, which could cleanse the conscience completely. The inadequacy of the Old Covenant to provide a clean conscience highlights the superiority of Christ's sacrifice in the New Covenant.
Parable of the Sower
0Fruitfulness in ChristThe Condition of the HeartMAT 13:19MRK 4:19JHN 15:1John Nelson Darby expounds on the Parable of the Sower, illustrating the various responses to God's word based on the condition of the heart. He emphasizes that the natural heart is resistant to divine truth, likening it to hard ground where the seed cannot take root. Darby explains that without God's intervention, the seed of the word is easily snatched away by Satan or choked by worldly distractions. He concludes by affirming that true fruitfulness comes from being rooted in Christ, as God actively purges and nurtures the believer to produce abundant fruit. The sermon calls for self-examination and a desire for God's purging work in our lives.
The Rejected Man
0Sin and RedemptionTrust in GodGEN 3:1John Nelson Darby explores the theme of humanity's rejection of God, tracing it back to the original sin of Adam and Eve. He emphasizes how Eve's conversation with Satan led to a distrust in God's goodness, resulting in disobedience and the fall of man. Darby highlights the deceitfulness of sin and the importance of recognizing our dependence on God to avoid falling into the traps set by the enemy. He concludes with the promise of redemption through Jesus Christ, the Second Adam, who restores what was lost through sin.
Washing the Disciple's Feet
0Christ's LoveServanthoodJHN 13:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound love of Christ as He washes the disciples' feet, demonstrating humility and servitude just before His departure to the Father. He explains that Jesus' actions were motivated by His love for His disciples and His knowledge of His divine authority, signifying that He would continue to serve them even in glory. Darby highlights that this act symbolizes the ongoing cleansing believers need from the defilements of the world, and encourages Christians to emulate Christ's humility by serving one another. He concludes by inviting those who have not yet experienced Christ's service to believe in Him for forgiveness and eternal fellowship.
Matthew 10
0Faithfulness in PersecutionMissionPSA 95:7MAT 10:1LUK 22:35HEB 6:5John Nelson Darby emphasizes the mission of Jesus as He sends His twelve disciples to the lost sheep of Israel, empowering them to heal and cast out demons. He highlights the urgency of their task amidst the iniquity of the people, warning them of the opposition they would face, including persecution and familial division. The disciples are reminded to rely on God for their needs and to boldly proclaim the message of the kingdom, knowing that their faithfulness would be rewarded. Darby underscores the importance of recognizing Jesus as Emmanuel and the consequences of rejecting His messengers. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to Christ above all else, assuring that even small acts of kindness towards His followers will not go unnoticed.
Matthew 18
0ForgivenessHumilityMAT 5:7MAT 18:1MAT 18:10MAT 18:15MAT 18:19LUK 18:16EPH 4:32COL 3:13JAS 4:6John Nelson Darby expounds on Matthew 18, emphasizing the principles of humility and grace that characterize the kingdom of God. He highlights the necessity for believers to adopt a childlike spirit, demonstrating dependence on God and care for others, especially the vulnerable. The sermon underscores the importance of forgiveness, urging disciples to forgive endlessly, reflecting God's grace. Darby also discusses the role of the church as the earthly representation of Christ, where unity and genuine gathering in His name bring His presence and authority. Ultimately, the message calls for a spirit of meekness and a commitment to embodying the love and grace of God in all interactions.
Matthew 26
0The New CovenantThe Suffering of ChristISA 53:7MAT 26:1MAT 26:6MAT 26:17MAT 26:31MAT 26:36MAT 26:57HEB 5:7John Nelson Darby reflects on Matthew 26, emphasizing the profound significance of Jesus' final moments before His crucifixion. He highlights the simplicity with which Jesus foretells His betrayal and suffering, showcasing His submission to God's will amidst human malice. The sermon also touches on the deep affection shown by the woman who anointed Jesus, contrasting it with the coldness of Judas and the disciples. Darby underscores the institution of the Lord's Supper as a new covenant, marking a pivotal shift in the relationship between God and humanity. Ultimately, he portrays Jesus as the Victim, fully aware of the impending betrayal and suffering, yet committed to fulfilling His divine purpose.
Mark 13
0End TimesVigilance in FaithMRK 13:1John Nelson Darby discusses the prophetic warnings given by Jesus regarding the judgment of Jerusalem and the trials that His disciples would face in the absence of His physical presence. He emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and prepared for the coming tribulations, including the rise of false prophets and the persecution of believers. Darby highlights the eventual restoration of Israel and the ultimate return of Christ, encouraging the disciples to remain steadfast in their faith despite the challenges ahead. The sermon serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the necessity of watching and praying as they await the Lord's return.
Rivers of Living Water John 7
0Living WaterGrace and RedemptionJHN 7:37John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound truth of Christ's identity and the rejection He faced from His own people, contrasting the glory of His pre-incarnate existence with the need for redemption through His death. He explains that while the Jewish people had the promises, they must now approach God through grace, as Christ's work on the cross has made a way for all to receive eternal life. The sermon highlights the significance of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live in fellowship with Christ, and the necessity of recognizing one's own spiritual thirst to receive the living water that Christ offers. Darby encourages believers to draw from Christ and share this living water with others, reflecting the grace and love of God. Ultimately, he reassures that through Christ's sacrifice, believers can approach God with confidence, free from the burden of sin.
The Robber Saved Luke 23:39-43
0SalvationGraceLUK 23:39John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound love and compassion of Jesus, who, even in His suffering, fully engaged with the sorrows of others. He contrasts the repentant robber, who recognized his guilt and sought grace, with the unrepentant thief, illustrating the human heart's enmity towards God. Darby highlights that true faith is rooted in the recognition of Christ's perfectness and the assurance of salvation through His atoning work. The sermon underscores that access to God is granted through Christ, who has removed the veil, allowing believers to enter into His presence with confidence. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, emphasizing that even in the last moments of life, faith in Christ can lead to immediate salvation.
Jesus the Willing Captive John 18:1-10
0Christ's SacrificeDeliverance from SinJHN 18:4John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound willingness of Christ to surrender Himself to capture, fully aware of the impending suffering, demonstrating His self-devotion for our deliverance. He highlights that through Christ's sacrifice, the power of Satan is annihilated, and believers are no longer under its dominion, akin to Israel's deliverance from Egypt. Darby explains that Christ's agony in Gethsemane and His ultimate obedience in drinking the cup of wrath signify the complete victory over sin and death, offering perfect light and joy to believers. He encourages the congregation to recognize their new creation in Christ, free from the power of darkness and brought into the light of God. The sermon concludes with a call to appreciate the perfect deliverance that Christ has achieved for all who believe.
God's Wisdom in Christ 1 Corinthians 1
0Righteousness in ChristGod's WisdomJER 9:24ROM 3:231CO 1:25John Nelson Darby emphasizes that the foolishness of man, including that of believers, serves to highlight God's wisdom. He explains that all human righteousness and pride are ultimately broken down in God's presence, leaving no room for boasting except in the Lord. Darby illustrates that true wisdom and righteousness come from Christ, who offers redemption and sanctification, allowing believers to glory in Him rather than in their own achievements or sins. He contrasts the folly of self-righteousness with the divine wisdom found in Christ, who provides a way for sinners to be reconciled to God. Ultimately, Darby encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ, recognizing that their worth and righteousness are rooted in Him alone.
The Two Ministries 2 Corinthians 4 and 5
0Ministry of the SpiritHope in ChristJHN 14:3ROM 8:172CO 3:182CO 4:72CO 5:1EPH 1:13PHP 3:20HEB 10:191PE 1:101JN 3:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the duality of ministries in 2 Corinthians 4 and 5, contrasting the ministry of the Spirit with that of the Old Testament prophets. He explains that true ministry requires personal possession of the truths we share, highlighting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in revealing the glory of God through Jesus Christ. Darby illustrates how believers, filled with the Holy Spirit, are called to reflect Christ's glory and await His return, while navigating the trials of life as vessels of His grace. He encourages Christians to recognize their identity in Christ and the hope of eternal glory, urging them to live in light of this truth.
Sovereign Grace in Christ Ephesians 1
0Communion with GodSovereign GraceEPH 1:3John Nelson Darby emphasizes the dual aspects of our relationship with God: our approach to Him through our needs and the sovereign grace He extends towards us. He illustrates that we can only draw near to God through Christ, recognizing our dependence on His sacrifice. Darby explains that true communion with God requires a purged conscience and highlights the joy of being in fellowship with Him, which is rooted in grace. He encourages believers to understand their identity in Christ, being accepted and loved by God, and to focus on their relationship with the Father rather than merely on the inheritance. Ultimately, he calls for a heart that delights in God's affections and grace, leading to a life of joy and communion with Him.
History of Abram
0Personal Communion with GodFaith and ObedienceGEN 12:1GEN 13:14GEN 14:18GEN 15:6GEN 17:1GEN 18:17ROM 4:3GAL 3:6HEB 11:8JAS 2:23John Nelson Darby explores the life of Abram as a profound illustration of the life of faith, emphasizing the distinction between public worship and personal communion with God. He highlights Abram's calling from darkness into the light of God's promises, his journey towards the land of promise, and the importance of trusting God amidst challenges. Darby notes that true worship arises from a personal relationship with God, which is cultivated through faith and obedience. The sermon also reflects on Abram's failures and restoration, illustrating the necessity of renouncing worldly influences to fully embrace God's blessings.
Acts 3
0RepentanceThe Return of ChristACT 3:19John Nelson Darby expounds on Acts 3, emphasizing God's remarkable ways in offering repentance to the Jews despite their rejection of Christ. He highlights Peter's powerful address to the people, reminding them of their sin in denying Jesus and the importance of repentance for the return of Christ. Darby illustrates God's patience and grace, showing that even after the crucifixion, God desires to spare the people from judgment. He contrasts the current absence of Christ's kingdom on earth with the future hope of His return, which hinges on Israel's repentance. Ultimately, Darby underscores the significance of the Holy Spirit's presence in the interim period as believers await Christ's glorious return.
Mark 16
0ResurrectionFaith and MissionMRK 16:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the simplicity and significance of the resurrection account in Mark, noting the different visits of women to the sepulchre and the angel's message of Christ's resurrection. He highlights Mary Magdalene's unique role as the first to witness the risen Lord and her commission to share this news with the disciples, marking a new relationship as 'brethren' of Christ. The sermon illustrates the importance of faith in understanding the resurrection and the divine power that enabled Jesus to rise, as well as the subsequent mission of the apostles to spread the Gospel. Darby concludes with the assurance that belief and confession in Christ lead to salvation, supported by signs and wonders. The message of hope and resurrection is central to the Christian faith.
Luke 6
0SabbathGrace and FaithMAT 11:28LUK 6:5HEB 4:9John Nelson Darby discusses the significance of the Sabbath in relation to Jesus' authority and the transition from Jewish law to grace. He emphasizes that Jesus, as the Lord of the Sabbath, has the right to redefine its meaning, highlighting that true rest is found in Him rather than in legalistic observance. The sermon illustrates how Jesus' actions and teachings reveal God's grace, particularly towards the Gentiles, and how faith, humility, and love are central to the new covenant. Darby also contrasts the blessings of those who follow Christ with the fate of those who reject Him, underscoring the importance of recognizing Jesus' divine authority and grace.
The Woman of Samaria
0LUK 2:25ACT 4:36ROM 12:82CO 1:31TH 2:3HEB 12:5HEB 13:22John MacArthur and Wuest delve into the concept of encouragement (paraklesis), which involves providing solace, comfort, exhortation, and consolation to others. They emphasize the root meaning of coming alongside someone to offer assistance, as exemplified by the Good Samaritan. The Bible verses highlight the importance of seeking comfort and encouragement from God, the ultimate source of strength and hope, and the need for believers to comfort others with the comfort they have received from God.