Christian Experience
Christian experience in the Bible refers to the personal and communal encounters with God that shape the faith and understanding of believers. This concept encompasses the transformative aspects of faith, such as conversion, sanctification, and the ongoing relationship with Christ through the Holy Spirit. For instance, in 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul emphasizes the transformative nature of faith, stating, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." This highlights how an individual's experience of salvation leads to a profound change in identity and purpose.Moreover, the New Testament often illustrates Christian experience through the workings of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. In Acts 2, during Pentecost, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the apostles signifies the beginning of the church and the empowerment of believers to live out their faith. This event underscores the importance of experiential knowledge of God, as believers are called to live out their faith through acts of love, service, and worship (James 2:17). Thus, Christian experience, grounded in scripture, reflects both a personal journey of faith and a communal identity in Christ.
Christian Experience13
Definitions
By Watchman Nee1JHN 10:10ROM 10:172CO 1:20GAL 2:20EPH 2:8HEB 11:1Watchman Nee emphasizes the interrelationship between fact, faith, and experience in the Christian life. He explains that facts are God's promises and gifts, while faith is the believer's trust in these truths, transforming them into personal experience. Experience, in turn, is the manifestation of Christ's life in believers, reflecting their understanding and application of God's facts. Nee warns that without understanding these connections, believers may face confusion in their faith and teachings. He illustrates these concepts through the doctrine of redemption, highlighting its significance in the believer's life.
(Trees in the Christian Experience) 1. the Man Behind the Tree
By Roy Hession1.7K48:45GEN 1:1GEN 2:7GEN 3:15ISA 55:7MAT 6:33ROM 5:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses five incidents from the Scriptures where a tree is significant. The first incident is the story of the man behind the tree in Genesis chapter three. The preacher emphasizes that God's attitude towards sinners is not one of condemnation, but of seeking and saving the lost. This is demonstrated by the fact that God gave his son for us, showing his love and willingness to forgive. The preacher encourages listeners to come out from behind the tree and not hide, as God offers forgiveness and mercy through Jesus Christ.
(Trees in the Christian Experience) 2. the Man Up the Tree
By Roy Hession1.4K44:00LUK 19:1Roy Hession explores the story of Zacchaeus, emphasizing that true transformation comes not from striving to be better but from recognizing our need for grace. Zacchaeus, a tax collector, climbed a tree to see Jesus, symbolizing our attempts to elevate ourselves spiritually. However, it is Jesus who sees us and calls us down, inviting us to embrace our shortcomings and receive His grace. Hession highlights that salvation and true Christian living stem from acknowledging our status as sinners in need of redemption, rather than from our efforts to climb higher in spiritual stature.
(Trees in the Christian Experience) 5. the Tree Cast Into the Bitter Water
By Roy Hession1.3K51:27MAT 6:33ROM 8:28HEB 12:11PE 1:6In this sermon, the preacher talks about a story from the Bible where Moses cried out to the Lord for help. The Lord showed Moses a tree, which he then cast into bitter saline waters, making them sweet. The preacher explains that this story teaches us that our challenges and trials are not by chance, but are provided for by God to test and grow our faith. The preacher relates this story to the cross, explaining that just as the tree sweetened the bitter waters, the cross of Jesus Christ can bring sweetness and restoration to our lives.
Life Begins at 80
By Charles Anderson1.4K00:00NUM 14:1JOS 14:6PSA 27:14ISA 40:31MAT 6:33HEB 11:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Caleb from the Bible. He highlights Caleb's unwavering faith and determination despite facing 40 years of wilderness wandering. The preacher emphasizes that Caleb had a clear vision and never lost sight of his inheritance, which was a specific piece of land. Despite the challenges and monotony of life, Caleb remained faithful and desired to fulfill his purpose. The preacher encourages the audience to adopt Caleb's mindset and seek their own unique purpose in life, trusting in God's guidance and remaining steadfast in their faith.
Christian Consciousness, a Witness for God
By Charles Finney0PSA 34:8ISA 43:10MAT 5:16JHN 14:6JHN 17:3ACT 1:8ROM 8:162CO 5:17HEB 11:11JN 4:16Charles Finney emphasizes the significance of Christian consciousness as a powerful witness for God, arguing that true religion is rooted in personal experience and consciousness. He asserts that the testimony of Christians, based on their own experiences of transformation and knowledge of God, serves as the highest proof of the reality of faith. Finney contends that while counter-testimonies are merely negative, the positive experiences of believers provide undeniable evidence of divine truth. He encourages Christians to boldly share their experiences, as they are vital in affirming the truth of the Gospel and countering skepticism. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of the profound impact of personal testimony in the realm of faith.
The Epistle to the Philippians
By John Nelson Darby0EXO 3:5JOS 5:15PHP 2:1PHP 3:8John Nelson Darby explores the Epistle to the Philippians, emphasizing the Christian experience of being in Christ and the sustaining grace of God amidst trials. He draws parallels between the wilderness journey of Caleb and Joshua and the Christian life, highlighting the importance of faith and the character of Christ in overcoming challenges. Darby stresses that true Christian obedience stems from a lack of self-will, guided by God's Word, and that the believer's life should reflect the humility and service exemplified by Christ. He concludes that salvation is not merely redemption but a glorious result of our relationship with Christ, who empowers us to shine in dark times.
(Trees in the Christian Experience) 4. the Man Under the Tree
By Roy Hession1.3K47:14GEN 28:12MAT 6:33MAT 27:32JHN 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having faith and trust in God. He uses the metaphor of a ladder leading to heaven to illustrate the idea that even when life feels difficult, there is always a way to connect with God. The preacher also discusses the concept of the victorious Christian life and suggests that sometimes our theology can be inconsistent. He encourages listeners to turn to Jesus and the power of his blood to find strength and overcome challenges.
(Trees in the Christian Experience) 3. the Man on the Tree
By Roy Hession1.2K45:27DEU 21:22In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of revival in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that revival is not just about conviction and repentance, but also about rejoicing in the Lord. The preacher uses the example of King David inquiring of the Lord during a three-year famine to illustrate the path to revival. He highlights the importance of recognizing and repenting for our sins, just as David did when he realized the famine was a consequence of Saul's actions. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the need for true repentance and rejoicing in the finished work of Jesus on the cross.
Rich in Spiritual Experiences
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 92:12Thomas Brooks emphasizes that a mature Christian is enriched by profound spiritual experiences, recounting the ways, workings, and love of God. He highlights the transformative power of the Word, the indwelling and influence of the Holy Spirit, and the battles against sin and Satan that shape a believer's journey. Just as a seasoned soldier shares tales of victories and scars, so too does an old saint share their spiritual conquests and the richness of their faith. Brooks asserts that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the depth of one's spiritual experiences and relationship with Christ.
One Body in Christ
By Watchman Nee0ROM 12:4Watchman Nee emphasizes the concept of unity in the Body of Christ, explaining that while individual experiences of faith are important, they must be understood within the context of the collective body of believers. He warns against oversimplifying salvation and stresses the necessity of recognizing the various phases of Christian experience, including revelation, crisis, and continuous process. Nee highlights that the work of Christ on the Cross encompasses both remedial and positive aspects, ultimately leading to the creation of a glorious Church that reflects God's eternal purpose. He calls for believers to present themselves as one living sacrifice, acknowledging their interdependence within the Body of Christ, which is essential for fulfilling God's purpose. The sermon concludes with the assurance that through Christ, the Church is empowered to overcome the challenges posed by sin and the enemy.
The Message of 1 Thessalonians
By G. Campbell Morgan01TH 1:9G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the significance of the Second Advent in the Christian experience, illustrating how it serves as the foundation for faith, inspires labor, and fosters patience among believers. He highlights that the Thessalonian Christians, despite facing persecution, found comfort and motivation in the promise of Christ's return, which reassured them of their faith and the ultimate victory over suffering. Morgan calls for a response of sanctification in personal life, love for others, and honesty in the world, urging believers to live in anticipation of Christ's return. He warns against the dangers of losing sight of this doctrine, which can lead to unbelief and spiritual indifference. Ultimately, he encourages the church to embrace the hope of the Second Advent as a catalyst for active faith and service.
Koronis Conference 1970-02 Phil 4;
By Neil Fraser74946:45PHP 1:21PHP 2:5PHP 3:20PHP 4:4Neil Fraser emphasizes the high standard of Christian experience as outlined in Philippians chapter four, contrasting the norm of Christian living with the true norm set by scripture. He highlights key attributes of a Christian, such as abounding joy, abnormal gentleness, abiding peace, absolute contentment, amazing power, and ample supply for all needs. Fraser encourages believers to strive for these qualities, reminding them that they can do all things through Christ who strengthens them. He urges the congregation to reflect on their own experiences and to seek a deeper, more fulfilling Christian life. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live up to the high norms of Christian experience.