Character of a Believer
Character of a Believer3
The Beatitudes the Fifth Beatitude
By A.W. Pink0PSA 18:25PRO 11:17PRO 14:21PRO 21:21MIC 7:18MAT 5:7MAT 6:15MAT 7:2GAL 6:72TI 1:16A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of the fifth Beatitude, 'Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy,' highlighting that true mercifulness is a reflection of the mercy received from God. He explains that this trait is not a prerequisite for receiving mercy but rather a natural outcome of being filled with Christ's love and grace. Pink clarifies that mercifulness involves compassion, forgiveness, and a non-retaliating spirit, which stems from the new nature given by the Holy Spirit. He warns against the misinterpretation of this Beatitude as a basis for salvation by works, asserting that it describes the character of genuine disciples. Ultimately, Pink concludes that the merciful will not only find joy in their actions but will also receive mercy from God and others.
A Christ-Like Man
By R.A. Torrey0ACT 6:5R.A. Torrey emphasizes the exemplary character of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, who embodied Christ-like qualities such as being full of faith, grace, power, the Word of God, the Holy Spirit, love, and courage. Stephen's unwavering faith allowed him to face persecution with grace, and his deep knowledge of Scripture empowered his preaching, leading to both conviction and hostility from his adversaries. Despite his martyrdom, Stephen's life and death had a profound impact, ultimately contributing to the conversion of Paul, the apostle. Torrey calls for believers to emulate Stephen's fullness in their own lives, highlighting the necessity of prayer and the Holy Spirit in achieving such a character. The sermon serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship and the eternal rewards that follow faithfulness.
Thessalonians Chapter 3 a Pattern Worker and Minister
By A.B. Simpson01TH 2:1A.B. Simpson emphasizes the character and ministry of Paul as a model for all believers, illustrating how Paul worked diligently in various circumstances while remaining true to his calling. He highlights that Paul's ministry was marked by a single aim to please God rather than men, a pure personal life, and a commitment to serve without financial burden to others. Simpson encourages believers to recognize their everyday work as a platform for ministry, advocating for a life of prayer and love as essential components of effective witness. The sermon calls for a spirit of gentleness and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit in all ministry efforts, urging Christians to embody the fullness of the Gospel in their lives.