Authority of Christ
Authority of Christ19
Titles of the Risen Lord
By T. Austin-Sparks2REV 1:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Resurrection titles of the Lord Jesus, focusing on three key titles: the Faithful Witness, the Firstborn of the Dead, and the Ruler of the Kings of the Earth. He explains that these titles reflect Christ's authority and judgment, rooted in His incarnation, triumph over death, and exaltation. The Faithful Witness embodies perfect love, faith, and obedience, while the Firstborn signifies the promise of eternal life for believers. Lastly, the Ruler of the Kings of the Earth assures us of Christ's ultimate authority over all nations, despite current appearances. Sparks encourages believers to find comfort and strength in these truths about the Risen Lord.
Luke 20
By John Nelson Darby0LUK 20:1John Nelson Darby discusses the authority of Christ as questioned by the scribes, emphasizing that true faith relies solely on God's word without needing external validation. He explains the parable of the husbandmen, illustrating Israel's rejection of Christ and the consequences of that rejection, while also addressing the complexities of tribute to Caesar and the resurrection of the saints. Darby highlights the distinction between the resurrection of the righteous and the unrighteous, affirming that believers are children of God and will be raised to eternal life. He concludes by stressing the importance of humility, as exemplified by Christ, and the believer's union with Him in glory, which is foundational to understanding their identity and inheritance in Christ.
Blessings From Our High Priest
By David Wilkerson0NUM 6:23HEB 7:24HEB 8:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the role of Jesus as our unchangeable High Priest who intercedes for us before the Father. He highlights that Jesus, seated at the right hand of God, has all authority and power to bless us, just as the Old Testament priests did. Wilkerson explains that Jesus' blessings are not mere wishes but are backed by divine authority, ensuring that they are fulfilled. He reassures believers that Jesus covers us with His blood and actively intercedes on our behalf, providing us with peace and security. The sermon encourages us to recognize the significance of Christ's ongoing ministry and the blessings that flow from it.
Demons: Overcoming Oppression
By Shane Idleman857:21MAT 8:23Shane Idleman addresses the issue of demonic oppression and the importance of recognizing and overcoming it through faith in Christ. He emphasizes that while Christians cannot be possessed by demons, they can be oppressed by allowing negative influences into their lives. Using the story of Jesus calming the storm, he illustrates how adversity reveals our true selves and the need for reliance on God's authority. Idleman encourages believers to fully surrender to Christ, as true freedom and peace come from a life centered on Him, rather than being influenced by the world or demonic forces.
Obedience Unto Christ — the Nature and Causes of It
By John Owen0MAT 5:17JHN 14:15ROM 14:10John Owen emphasizes the significance of obedience to Christ, asserting that true obedience stems from a heartfelt submission to His authority rather than mere compliance with rules. He clarifies that while the moral law remains unchanged, Christ confirmed it and provided new directives for worship, establishing His role as the ultimate lawgiver. Owen argues that obedience is not just about following commands but is rooted in recognizing Christ's divine nature and authority. He warns against the neglect of obedience, which is often overlooked in theological debates, and stresses that all moral duties must be performed in faith through Christ to be acceptable to God. Ultimately, Owen calls believers to acknowledge Christ's authority in both moral and worship practices, as all judgment and accountability rest with Him.
Christ's Teaching Concerning Civil Government Matthew 22:15-22
By R.A. Torrey0MAT 22:15R.A. Torrey explores Christ's teachings on civil government in Matthew 22:15-22, focusing on the conspiracy of the Pharisees and Herodians against Jesus. He highlights their hypocrisy and cunning as they attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying tribute to Caesar. Jesus skillfully navigates their trap, teaching that while we owe duties to civil authorities, we must also render to God what is rightfully His. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing our obligations to both God and government, and the ultimate authority of Christ over all. Torrey concludes by reflecting on the folly of those who marvel at Jesus yet do not follow Him.
John Wesley's Explanatory Notes - Matthew 12
By John Wesley0MAT 12:1MAT 12:12MAT 12:30MAT 12:36John Wesley explains Matthew 12, emphasizing the importance of mercy over sacrifice and the authority of Christ over the Sabbath. He illustrates how necessity can justify actions that may seem to transgress the law, as seen in David's example. Wesley highlights that true righteousness is about the heart and intentions, not merely following rituals. He warns against the dangers of blaspheming the Holy Spirit and stresses that one must be either for or against Christ. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a deeper understanding of faith that prioritizes love and mercy.
"There Met Him Out of the Tombs a Man With an Unclean spirit."- Mar 5:2
By G. Campbell Morgan0MRK 5:1G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the significance of Jesus' encounter with the demoniac in Mark 5:1-20, illustrating the reality of demon possession and Christ's authority over evil spirits. He highlights the man's tragic condition, marked by isolation, lawlessness, and torment, and contrasts it with the transformative power of Christ, who restores him to sanity and community. Morgan argues that the existence of demons and their influence on humanity is a consistent theme in the New Testament, and he encourages believers to recognize the ongoing spiritual battle against evil forces. Ultimately, he reassures that through Christ, believers have the authority to overcome these dark influences and experience victory in their lives.
Selective Acceptance of the Teaching of Christ and the Apostles
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 7:21MAT 28:18JHN 1:14JHN 14:6ACT 4:12ROM 10:9COL 2:9HEB 13:81JN 5:12REV 20:15A.W. Tozer addresses the troubling trend of selectively accepting the teachings of Christ while diminishing His divine nature. He critiques religious leaders who elevate Jesus' ethical teachings but disregard His claims of deity and essential doctrines on sin and judgment. Tozer warns that this selective acceptance undermines the integrity of Christ's message and leads to a lack of certainty in faith. He emphasizes that the same issues faced in the past are resurfacing in contemporary discussions, suggesting a need for a return to a holistic understanding of Christ's teachings. The sermon calls for a recognition of the full authority of Jesus, both in His person and His teachings.
Jesus' Appearance to the Eleven on the Mountain in Galilee Matthew 28:16-20
By R.A. Torrey0MAT 28:16R.A. Torrey emphasizes the significance of Jesus' appearance to the eleven disciples on the mountain in Galilee, where they worshipped Him despite some doubting. He highlights Jesus' authority over heaven and earth, bestowed by the Father, and the great commission given to the disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe all His commands. Torrey stresses the importance of obedience to this commission and the promise of Jesus' presence with His followers until the end of the age, encouraging believers to actively participate in spreading the Gospel.
Christian Baptism Not Founded on Proselyte Baptism.
By John Gill0MAT 3:6MAT 28:19JHN 1:33ACT 2:38ACT 8:36ACT 10:47ACT 16:15ACT 19:5ROM 6:4GAL 3:27John Gill argues that Christian baptism is not derived from Jewish proselyte baptism, emphasizing that the Talmuds, which document such practices, were written long after the time of Christ and John the Baptist. He points out that the Jewish baptism lacked the divine authority and solemnity that characterize Christian baptism, and that it was often associated with immoral practices. Gill asserts that John the Baptist's baptism was a new and divine institution, distinct from any Jewish customs, and that there is no evidence of infant baptism in the Jewish tradition prior to Christ. He concludes that Christian baptism must be rooted in Christ's authority rather than human traditions.
Authority (Times of Refreshing Radio)
By Peter Brandon1029:25ISA 53:6MAT 28:19JHN 3:16JHN 5:24JHN 10:27JHN 14:6ACT 2:21ROM 10:132TI 3:161JN 5:11Peter Brandon emphasizes the authority of Jesus Christ in his sermon, highlighting the distinction between God's commands and invitations. He stresses the importance of recognizing Jesus' voice amidst the confusion of many beliefs and denominations, asserting that true authority comes from Christ alone. Brandon encourages listeners to extend the invitation of salvation to others, reminding them that God desires all to come to repentance. He underscores the personal nature of God's communication, emphasizing that Jesus speaks to individuals with love and urgency. The sermon culminates in a call to trust in Jesus for everlasting life, as articulated in John 5:24.
Governed by the Word of God
By David Wilkerson0PSA 66:7PSA 103:19PSA 119:11PSA 119:105PSA 119:162ISA 9:7ISA 14:5ISA 14:12ISA 14:15LUK 17:21HEB 1:1David Wilkerson emphasizes that if Christ is the supreme authority over His kingdom, then our lives must be governed by Him in every aspect. He explains that to be governed by Jesus means allowing Him to control our thoughts, words, and actions, as He rules not only our hearts but also the nations. Despite the moral decay and challenges in society, Wilkerson reassures that God remains in control, and His kingdom is established within us. He encourages believers to increase their submission to Christ's rule and highlights the importance of the Word of God as the means by which Jesus governs us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper commitment to living under the authority of Christ and His teachings.
King in His Kingdom
By G.W. North0LUK 9:54G.W. North emphasizes the necessity of seeking God's will for the operation of spiritual gifts, illustrating that even the apostles recognized Jesus as the absolute King in His kingdom, requiring His permission to act. He reflects on the early church's experience, particularly Peter's and Paul's ministries, where the gifts of the Spirit were intended to function under divine authority. However, he warns that the Corinthian church, despite their blessings, misappropriated these gifts, leading to spiritual weakness and failure. North highlights that the gifts, when detached from God's will, become mere human efforts devoid of true power. Ultimately, he calls for a return to recognizing Christ's kingship and the proper administration of spiritual gifts according to His will.
Of Church Discipline.
By John Gill0ISA 26:1EZK 43:10MAT 16:19MAT 18:17JHN 20:23ROM 16:171CO 5:7GAL 5:122TH 3:61TI 1:20John Gill emphasizes that church discipline is rooted in divine authority rather than human laws, asserting that Christ is the sole head and lawgiver of the church. He clarifies that many commonly cited scriptures regarding church discipline are often misinterpreted, particularly those concerning the keys of the kingdom and excommunication. Gill outlines the proper procedures for admitting members into the church, emphasizing the need for personal faith and mutual consent, while also addressing the importance of maintaining moral integrity within the church community. He concludes by discussing the necessity of excommunication as a means to preserve the church's purity and honor God, while also aiming for the restoration of the individual involved.
In the Gospel by Matthew
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 119:99MAT 1:1MAT 5:1MAT 5:21MAT 8:9MAT 10:3MAT 21:43MAT 28:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, focusing on His mission, meaning, and message. He highlights that the Gospel of Matthew serves as the foundation of Christianity, showcasing the authority of Jesus as the King and the importance of recognizing His Lordship in our lives. Sparks encourages believers to engage deeply with Scripture, understanding that true authority comes from a personal commitment to Jesus. He warns against the spirit of rebellion against authority prevalent in society today, urging Christians to submit to Christ's command. Ultimately, the message is a call to acknowledge and live under the Lordship of Jesus for spiritual victory.
The Person of Christ
By David Gooding1.5K34:00MAT 28:18EPH 1:192TI 3:16David Gooding emphasizes the authority of Jesus Christ in his sermon 'The Person of Christ', addressing the challenges faced by the evangelical church in a culture that often rejects absolute truths. He argues that the authority of Christ is essential for the church's power and purpose, and that believers must recognize His lordship over their lives, time, money, doctrine, morals, and future. Gooding warns against the dangers of tradition and intellectualism that can undermine Christ's authority, urging Christians to submit fully to His will. He concludes by calling for a generation of believers who will boldly uphold the authority of Christ in a world that seeks to compromise it.
The Return of the Seventy Luke 10:17-24; Matthew 11:25-30
By R.A. Torrey0LUK 10:17R.A. Torrey emphasizes the joy and authority given to the seventy disciples as they return from their mission, highlighting the power of Jesus' name over evil and the assurance of their names being written in heaven. He explains that true wisdom and revelation come from God, not from human understanding, and that Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and earth. Torrey encourages believers to recognize their privileged position in knowing God and to accept Jesus' invitation to find rest for their souls through His easy yoke. The sermon underscores the importance of humility and reliance on Christ for spiritual strength and understanding.
Walking in the Light of His Presence
By A.W. Tozer0ACT 17:30A.W. Tozer emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ in his sermon 'Walking in the Light of His Presence', criticizing the tendency to seek validation of Christ through psychology, philosophy, and science. He points out the absurdity of modern believers seeking approval from worldly figures, while the New Testament clearly states that God commands repentance through Christ, who has been validated by His resurrection. Tozer asserts that Christ does not need external validation; He is self-validating as the Second person of the Godhead, and every individual ultimately stands before Him for judgment. The resurrection of Christ serves as the ultimate assurance of His identity and authority.