Christian Unity
Christian Unity10
The Pearl Psalm -- Psalm 133
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 13:45A.B. Simpson emphasizes the beauty and necessity of Christian unity in his sermon on Psalm 133, referring to it as the 'Pearl Psalm.' He explains that unity is not only good but also pleasant, as it reflects God's nature and purpose for the Church, which is the Body of Christ. Simpson highlights that true unity comes from being connected to Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to love one another genuinely. He encourages the congregation to pursue unity actively, reminding them that love is the key to overcoming divisions and fostering spiritual growth. Ultimately, he asserts that the blessings of unity include God's presence, answered prayers, and the attraction of the Church to the world.
Love: On Our Side
By F.B. Meyer0F.B. Meyer emphasizes that love is the essence of Christianity, distinguishing it from mere human affection by its divine origin and selflessness. He explains that true love, as a fruit of the Spirit, transcends personal feelings and is demonstrated through actions towards both friends and enemies. Meyer asserts that God's election is rooted in love, and that genuine faith naturally produces love for all believers. He encourages the church to embody love in all relationships, highlighting that love must be sincere and modeled after Christ's example. Ultimately, love is the key to understanding and experiencing the fullness of Christ's love.
Be Cautious When You Criticize
By Theodore Epp0ROM 14:10Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of being cautious when criticizing fellow Christians, reminding us that we will each stand before God to give an account of our own actions, not those of others. He references Paul's teachings in Romans and 1 Corinthians, urging believers to refrain from hasty judgments and to focus on their own conduct rather than pointing fingers at others. Epp highlights that we will be judged by Christ's standards, and therefore, we should avoid placing stumbling blocks in each other's paths. This call to self-reflection and humility is essential for fostering a supportive Christian community.
1 Peter 4:8
By John Gill0PRO 10:12JHN 13:341PE 4:8John Gill emphasizes the paramount importance of fervent charity among believers, urging that love should be especially directed towards fellow Christians as they are united in Christ. This love is not only to be warm and reciprocal but also constant and enduring, as it is foundational to all other Christian duties. Gill explains that true charity helps to overlook the faults of others, preventing strife and promoting unity within the body of Christ. He highlights that this love fulfills the law and is essential for a genuine expression of faith. Ultimately, charity serves to cover the multitude of sins, fostering a spirit of forgiveness and understanding among believers.
Psalms Chapter 15 the Pearl Psalm -- Psalm 133
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 13:45A.B. Simpson emphasizes the beauty of Christian unity as depicted in Psalm 133, referring to it as the 'Pearl Psalm.' He explains that the Church, as the Body of Christ, reflects God's purpose for unity, which is essential for spiritual growth and the fulfillment of Christ's command to love one another. Simpson highlights that true unity is not only good but also pleasant, bringing blessings such as answered prayers and the presence of the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to pursue unity actively, reminding them that love is the key to overcoming divisions and fostering a community that attracts others to Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a reliance on the Holy Spirit to cultivate this love and unity among believers.
A Spirit of Love, Joy, and Peace
By A.B. Simpson0PHP 4:2A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of cultivating a spirit of love, joy, and peace in the Christian life, drawing from Philippians 4:2-6. He highlights the importance of mutual love among believers, urging them to be of the same mind in the Lord, and to rejoice always, regardless of circumstances. Simpson explains that true joy comes from the Lord and is not dependent on external factors, while peace, a precious gift from God, guards our hearts and minds. He encourages believers to practice moderation and sweetness of spirit, reflecting Christ's love and gentleness in their interactions with others. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life characterized by these fruits of the Spirit, rooted in prayer and thanksgiving.
This Matter of Christian Unity
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 13:35JHN 17:21EPH 4:2T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical importance of Christian unity as a foundational element for effective witness to the world, arguing that disunity undermines the church's mission and credibility. He highlights that true unity is not merely a spiritual concept but must be manifested in practical love and cooperation among believers, as Jesus prayed for in John 17. Sparks warns against superficial approaches to unity that ignore the deeper spiritual realities and stresses the need for a mental revolution among Christians to overcome divisions rooted in spiritual immaturity. He asserts that the glory of Jesus' name should be the unifying force for all believers, guiding their actions and decisions. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the Holy Spirit's lordship to achieve the oneness that Christ desires for His church.
Jesus Only
By Vance Havner0MAT 11:28JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 10:91CO 1:12GAL 2:20PHP 3:8COL 1:17HEB 12:21JN 5:12Vance Havner shares his spiritual journey, emphasizing that despite exploring various theological perspectives, he ultimately concluded that the core of Christianity is Jesus Christ. He reflects on the dangers of modernism and the importance of focusing on Christ as the center of faith, rather than getting lost in denominational divisions or contemporary trends. Havner recounts a personal experience that reaffirmed his commitment to preaching 'Jesus Only,' illustrating that true Christian experience and doctrine must revolve around Christ. He warns against the false Christ of modernism and affirms the necessity of a personal relationship with the true Jesus, who is the source of balance and unity in the Christian life.
Living Without Worry - Part 2
By J.R. Miller0JHN 13:34J.R. Miller emphasizes the transformative power of love as taught by Jesus, distinguishing between the old commandment to love one's neighbor and the new commandment to love one another as Christ loves us. He illustrates that true love is selfless, patient, and kind, urging Christians to embody these qualities in their interactions with others, regardless of their worthiness. Miller highlights the importance of cooperation in Christian life, advocating for a love that fosters unity and mutual support among believers. He challenges the audience to reflect on their own expressions of love and to strive for a deeper, more sacrificial love that mirrors Christ's own. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live out this love in practical ways, enriching both personal relationships and the broader community.
"That the World May Believe"
By T. Austin-Sparks01CO 1:10GAL 2:20EPH 2:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the current state of Christianity has established a flawed basis for unity, focusing on organizational interests rather than the sovereign headship of Christ. He argues that true Christian unity is impossible under the present conditions of division and self-interest, which stifle the church's mission. Sparks calls for a new beginning centered on the Cross, which he identifies as the only means to achieve genuine unity among believers. He stresses that this unity must transcend denominational and personal interests, leading to a Christ-centered consciousness that fosters true oneness in the body of Christ. Ultimately, he asserts that the Cross must be applied deeply within our lives and systems to overcome divisions and manifest unity.