Christ's Presence
Christ's Presence5
Rev. 2:1. Watchman, What of the Night?
By Horatius Bonar0MAT 28:20JHN 13:30HEB 4:14REV 2:1REV 4:5Horatius Bonar emphasizes the significance of Christ's presence among His churches during the dark times of the world, as depicted in Revelation 2:1. He describes the night that envelops both the Church and the world, highlighting the need for divine light and guidance. Bonar explains that Christ, as both Priest and King, walks among His churches, watching over them, supplying their needs, and mourning their sins. He reassures believers of His constant presence and the promise of victory for those who remain faithful. The sermon calls for acknowledgment of Christ's authority and the importance of shining His light in a dark world.
Lo, I Am With You Always
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 23:4ISA 41:10MAT 28:20JHN 14:18JHN 16:33ROM 8:311CO 15:57PHP 4:13HEB 13:5REV 21:4A.B. Simpson emphasizes the continuous presence of Christ in our lives, reminding us that Jesus is not a figure of the past but our living Lord who watches over us. He illustrates this with a story of a chieftain who, despite being wounded, encourages his men to continue fighting, paralleling Christ's assurance that He is with us always. Simpson highlights the importance of recognizing this unbroken presence, which empowers us to face our battles with confidence. He reassures us that the struggles we face are temporary and that victory is assured through Christ. Ultimately, our song will be one of triumph, celebrating the victory we have through Him.
The Person, and the Work, of the Holy Spirit
By T. Austin-Sparks0LUK 12:50JHN 14:12ACT 2:16ACT 4:13ACT 5:21CO 14:25T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the true nature and purpose of the Holy Spirit, clarifying that He is not an impersonal force or mere influence, but a divine Person equal to the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit's mission is not to establish a new religion or movement, but to reproduce the life of Jesus Christ in believers, making His presence felt in a powerful way. Sparks highlights that the early Church experienced the Holy Spirit as a living Person, and their actions were driven by His guidance rather than a set of doctrines or teachings. The essence of being filled with the Spirit is to be filled with Christ Himself, leading to a genuine manifestation of His presence in the world. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit's work is about glorifying Jesus and making Him known through transformed lives.
Christ in Me
By Andrew Murray0JHN 14:20JHN 15:52CO 13:5EPH 3:14EPH 3:16Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound truth of 'Christ in Me,' urging believers to reflect on this reality each morning. He highlights the significance of understanding that through faith, Christ dwells within us, empowering us to live fruitful lives. Murray points to the necessity of prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit to experience the fullness of Christ's presence and love in our hearts. He encourages believers to recognize their identity in Christ and the transformative power it brings to their daily lives. Ultimately, this awareness leads to a deeper relationship with God and a fruitful Christian walk.
Our New Edens
By J.R. Miller0GEN 2:8J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of creating homes that reflect the beauty and peace of the Garden of Eden, urging families to cultivate love, joy, and Christ's presence in their daily lives. He illustrates that every home, regardless of its material wealth, should be a sanctuary filled with love and prayer, where Christ is welcomed as a constant guest. Miller highlights the roles of husbands, wives, and children in nurturing a harmonious home, stressing that love must be expressed and that the spiritual atmosphere is vital for a thriving family life. He concludes that a home infused with Christ's love and peace can withstand life's challenges and become a true reflection of heaven on earth.