Comfort in Christ
Comfort in Christ18
As a Brook, as the Channel of Brooks
By F.B. Meyer0JOB 6:15ISA 58:11MAT 7:9JHN 4:14HEB 13:5F.B. Meyer reflects on Job's lament regarding his friends who, instead of providing comfort, sought to uncover hidden sins as the cause of his suffering. He compares their failure to provide true solace to a brook that dries up in summer, leaving only stones behind. Meyer contrasts this with the unwavering love and friendship of Jesus, who offers a well of living water that never runs dry. He emphasizes that Jesus not only provides comfort but also embodies the very essence of that comfort, promising to never leave us. This sermon highlights the importance of seeking true companionship in Christ amidst human disappointments.
John 14 (Notes of Readings)
By John Nelson Darby0JHN 14:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the comfort Jesus provides by preparing a place for His followers and revealing the Father through Himself. He explains that true knowledge and understanding come through the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to grasp their identity in Christ and their relationship with the Father. Darby highlights the importance of being conformed to the image of the Son and the blessings that come from being united with Him. He also discusses the significance of obedience and the peace that Christ offers, which transcends worldly troubles. Ultimately, he calls believers to recognize their responsibility as living testimonies of Christ in the world.
Rev. 1:17-18. Fear and Its Remedy
By Horatius Bonar1REV 1:17Horatius Bonar emphasizes the profound encounter of John with the glorified Christ in Revelation 1:17-18, where John's fear leads him to fall as dead before the Lord. Christ reassures him with a gentle touch and the words 'Fear not,' revealing His eternal nature as the First and the Last, the Living One who conquered death. Bonar highlights the importance of recognizing Christ's glory and His role as the source of life, comfort, and authority over death and hell. This vision serves as a reminder for believers to find strength and peace in the knowledge of who Christ is, especially in times of fear and uncertainty. Ultimately, Bonar encourages the congregation to embrace the living Christ, who holds the keys to life and death, and to cast away their fears.
The Mission of the Comforter John 14 - 16
By John Nelson Darby0JHN 14:2JHN 14:16JHN 14:21JHN 14:27JHN 15:10JHN 15:26JHN 16:7JHN 16:13ROM 8:9ROM 8:16John Nelson Darby emphasizes the dual role of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter in John 14-16, highlighting that the Father sends the Holy Spirit in Christ's name to establish our relationship with Him, while Christ sends the Spirit to reveal His glory and comfort the believers. He reassures the disciples of Christ's return and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, which allows them to know their relationship with the Father and their identity in Christ. Darby explains that the Holy Spirit's presence is essential for understanding our salvation and living out our faith, as it empowers believers to reflect Christ's love and righteousness in their lives.
Further Thoughts for the Comfort of Jesus' Disciples During the Absence of Their Lord John 14:15-27
By R.A. Torrey0JHN 14:15R.A. Torrey emphasizes the profound comfort Jesus offers His disciples during His absence, highlighting that love for Christ is demonstrated through obedience to His commandments. He explains that the Holy Spirit, sent by the Father in Jesus' name, serves as a Comforter and guide, ensuring believers are never left as orphans. Torrey discusses the intimate relationship between the Father, Son, and believers, underscoring that true love for Jesus results in divine companionship and peace. The sermon reassures that Christ's legacy is His peace, which differs from the world's, and encourages disciples to remain steadfast in love and obedience. Ultimately, Torrey calls believers to embrace the presence of the Holy Spirit and the peace that comes from Christ.
Mourning
By A.W. Pink0MAT 5:4LUK 18:9A.W. Pink explores the paradox of mourning as a source of blessing in the Christian life, emphasizing that true mourning stems from a deep awareness of one's sinfulness and separation from God. He contrasts the self-righteousness of the Pharisee with the humility of the publican, illustrating that those who mourn for their sins are the ones who receive God's comfort and grace. Pink asserts that this mourning is not limited to initial conviction but is a continual state for believers, who grieve over their own failings and the state of the world. Ultimately, he reassures that while mourning is painful, it leads to profound comfort and joy through Christ's redemptive work. The sermon concludes with the promise that those who mourn will be comforted both now and in the eternal future.
Our Greatest Comfort
By David Wilkerson0PSA 34:18ISA 41:10LAM 3:22MAT 11:28JHN 16:33ROM 8:342CO 1:3PHP 4:6HEB 2:181PE 5:7David Wilkerson emphasizes that Jesus took on human nature to fully understand our struggles, including rejection and temptation. This allows Him to intercede for us with deep sympathy, especially for those who feel discouraged and alone in their faith. He illustrates this through the example of a struggling sister who feels weak and on the brink of giving up, yet Jesus intercedes for her, reminding the Father of His own suffering and offering grace and encouragement. Wilkerson reassures that Jesus' prayers bring comfort and renewal, demonstrating His compassion for our weaknesses. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, showing that we are never alone in our struggles.
Letters: Mrs. Mudie (1)
By Andrew Bonar01TH 4:13Andrew Bonar writes a heartfelt letter to Mrs. Mudie, expressing his surprise and sorrow at the passing of Mr. Mudie, a man of God known for his faith and love. He encourages Mrs. Mudie to rejoice in the hope of eternal life and the promise of reunion in Christ, reminding her that the time until they meet again is shorter than it seems. Bonar emphasizes the comfort that comes from the Holy Spirit and the assurance of seeing God's glory even in times of grief. He offers his prayers for her and her family, affirming their shared tribulation and faith in Christ's kingdom.
The Amen
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 119:89ISA 42:3MAT 11:28JHN 10:11ROM 8:382CO 1:20HEB 13:8C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate 'Amen,' affirming all His promises and providing comfort to the weary and broken-hearted. He reassures sinners that if they come to Christ, they will find His promises true, as He never retracts His words. Spurgeon highlights Jesus' roles as Priest, King, and Prophet, affirming that He remains steadfast in His commitments and support for His people. The sermon encourages believers to trust in the unchanging nature of Christ's promises, which stand firm through all circumstances. Ultimately, Jesus is portrayed as the source of hope, strength, and assurance in every aspect of life.
0 My Dove, That Art in the Clefts of the Ro
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 91:1ISA 40:31MAT 5:3JHN 15:5ROM 8:372CO 5:17EPH 2:6PHP 3:14COL 3:1JAS 4:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the comfort and security found in Christ, likening believers to doves resting in the cleft of the rock, which symbolizes Jesus' riven side. He encourages a life of spiritual ascent, where believers must seek the 'secret places of the stairs' to rise above worldly concerns and grow closer to God. This journey is often unnoticed until challenges reveal the strength of one's faith. Simpson reminds us that true elevation in life comes from a humble spirit and a hidden life in Christ, where we are kept from disobedience and sin. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper relationship with God that leads to spiritual maturity and stability.
Sorrows and Triumphs
By John Nelson Darby0PSA 20:1PSA 21:1PSA 34:18MAT 11:28JHN 13:31JHN 16:33ROM 8:182CO 1:3HEB 4:151PE 5:7John Nelson Darby emphasizes that Jesus has intimately entered into our sorrows, providing profound comfort through His incarnation. He explains that the depth of Christ's suffering allows us to understand the depth of His love, as He empathizes with our struggles and offers solace in our pain. The sermon highlights the significance of the Psalms in expressing the feelings of Jesus and how they resonate with our own experiences of sorrow. Darby also discusses the duality of suffering and glory, illustrating that while we endure hardships, we are also called to share in the joy of Christ's resurrection and glory. Ultimately, he reassures believers that Jesus is the source of comfort and understanding in a world filled with sorrow.
The Holy Spirit the Comforter
By Roy Hession0ISA 40:1JHN 16:14ROM 4:25ROM 7:10ROM 7:24EPH 1:20Roy Hession emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter for those who repent, transitioning from conviction of sin to the assurance of Christ's sufficiency. He illustrates how the Spirit comforts the contrite by revealing the finished work of Christ, encouraging believers to rest in His grace rather than striving for self-improvement. Hession highlights that the Holy Spirit's ministry is to lead us away from despair and towards the peace found in Jesus, who is clear of judgment. The Comforter not only addresses our sin but also provides for all our needs, empowering us for service through a renewed vision of Christ. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit invites us to come to Jesus, where we find true rest and strength.
Comfort in Christ's Knowledge of Us
By J.R. Miller0PSA 139:1J.R. Miller emphasizes the comfort found in Christ's perfect knowledge of us, contrasting the common fear associated with divine omniscience with the assurance that Christ's understanding is rooted in love and grace. He explains that while we may struggle with failures and inconsistencies, Christ sees our sincere intentions and true love amidst our shortcomings. Miller encourages believers to trust in Christ's patient love, which does not waver despite our flaws, and to find solace in the fact that He knows our hearts and intentions. The sermon highlights that Christ's knowledge allows us to approach Him with confidence, knowing He understands our struggles and remains committed to our salvation. Ultimately, Miller reassures that we are kept by Christ's enduring love and grace, which nurtures our potential for growth and transformation.
Of Peace and Tranquility of Mind.
By John Gill0PSA 29:11PSA 119:165ISA 26:3MAT 9:2JHN 14:27ROM 5:1GAL 5:22PHP 4:72TH 3:161JN 4:18John Gill emphasizes the significance of internal peace and tranquility of mind, distinguishing it from external peace that may be experienced in society or among individuals. He explains that true peace is a spiritual state achieved through the work of the Holy Spirit, who comforts and leads believers to the blood and righteousness of Christ, ultimately resulting in forgiveness and a tranquil conscience. Gill highlights that this peace is a gift from God, available only to those who are justified and have faith in Christ, and it is characterized by its permanence and ability to withstand life's tribulations. He encourages believers to seek this peace through the truths of the gospel and the love of God, which dispels fear and anxiety.
To the Afflicted
By D.L. Moody0MAT 11:28LUK 4:18D.L. Moody emphasizes that Christ came not only to save sinners but also to heal the brokenhearted, urging those who suffer to bring their burdens to the Great Physician. He recounts personal stories of sorrow and affliction, illustrating that broken hearts exist across all walks of life, and highlights the mystery of why people choose to carry their pain instead of seeking healing from Christ. Moody passionately calls on the afflicted to trust in Jesus, who has the power to heal every wound and bind up every sorrow. He reassures the audience that no heart is too broken for Christ to mend, encouraging them to approach Him as a personal friend in their time of need.
Matthew 5:4
By Chuck Smith0PSA 34:18ISA 53:3MAT 5:4MAT 11:28LUK 19:41JHN 11:35ROM 3:232CO 7:101JN 1:9REV 21:4Chuck Smith explores the beatitude 'Blessed are they that mourn' from Matthew 5:4, emphasizing the contrast between worldly happiness and the Christian pursuit of righteousness. He discusses the misconceptions surrounding mourning, noting that true mourning leads to a deeper understanding of one's sinfulness and the need for repentance. Smith highlights Jesus as the ultimate example of a man of sorrow, who wept for the blindness of others and the state of the world. He concludes that those who mourn over their sins and the world's conditions will find true comfort in Christ, who offers hope and cleansing.
Thoughts for the Comfort of Jesus' Disciples During the Absence of Their Lord John 14:1-15
By R.A. Torrey0JHN 14:1R.A. Torrey emphasizes the comfort Jesus provides to His disciples during His absence, urging them to believe in Him to find peace and assurance. He explains that faith in Jesus not only alleviates anxiety but also reveals the Father, as knowing Jesus is essential to knowing God. Torrey highlights the promise of Jesus preparing a place for believers in heaven and the power granted to those who believe, enabling them to perform greater works. The sermon underscores the importance of love and obedience to Jesus' commandments as a demonstration of faith. Ultimately, Torrey reassures that believers can approach God through Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life.
Beauty for Ashes
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 30:11PSA 147:3ISA 40:31ISA 61:3MAT 11:28JHN 14:27ROM 15:132CO 1:31PE 5:10REV 21:4C.H. Spurgeon delivers a powerful sermon titled 'Beauty for Ashes,' emphasizing the transformative power of Christ for those who mourn in Zion. He illustrates how Jesus, the anointed one, offers beauty in place of ashes, joy instead of mourning, and praise for heaviness, encouraging believers to seek comfort in Him. Spurgeon highlights that this promise is not just for physical restoration but for spiritual renewal, making mourners into 'trees of righteousness' that glorify God. He reassures the faithful that their struggles and sorrows are met with divine consolation and that their lives can reflect the joy and beauty of Christ's presence.