Commitment to Christ
Commitment to Christ27
God's Purpose for Us
By Major Ian Thomas7.1K39:02MAT 16:13JHN 2:23EPH 2:4EPH 3:16EPH 4:12Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that God's ultimate purpose for us is to have a deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who is not only our Redeemer but also our very life. He stresses that true commitment to Christ must be reciprocal, meaning our dedication to Him should align with His purpose for us, rather than our own expectations. Thomas warns against superficial commitments that do not reflect a genuine understanding of Christ's mission and encourages believers to seek a quality of commitment that allows Christ to work through them in every aspect of life. He illustrates that true maturity and fulfillment come from being rooted in Christ and His purpose, rather than in worldly achievements or recognition. Ultimately, he calls for a supreme commitment to Jesus that transcends all other pursuits and leads to a life fully surrendered to God's will.
He Calls Us to Fight
By David Wilkerson0LUK 14:31David Wilkerson emphasizes the call to spiritual warfare, urging believers to prepare for the battle against Satan's forces. He highlights the necessity of total commitment to Christ, as true disciples must forsake all to follow Him. With the assurance of victory through Christ, Wilkerson encourages the faithful to stand firm against the enemy's attacks, reminding them that they are invincible with the Holy Spirit's power. He passionately declares that nothing can separate us from the love of God, and urges believers to resist the devil and remain steadfast in their faith. The sermon serves as a rallying cry for those who desire to live sacrificially for Christ amidst spiritual challenges.
The Terms of Discipleship
By William MacDonald0MAT 16:24LUK 14:26LUK 14:33JHN 8:31JHN 13:35GAL 5:22William MacDonald emphasizes that true Christianity requires an all-out commitment to Jesus Christ, demanding unconditional surrender and prioritizing Him above all else. He outlines the stringent terms of discipleship, which include supreme love for Christ, self-denial, choosing the cross, following Christ's example, loving fellow believers, unwavering commitment to His Word, and forsaking all for His sake. MacDonald challenges the notion of Christianity as merely an escape from hell, urging believers to embrace the sacrificial nature of discipleship. He calls for a courageous acknowledgment of past failures and a renewed commitment to live as true disciples of Christ. The message is clear: discipleship is a serious and demanding path that requires total devotion.
Our Lord Steadfastly Setting His Face to Go to Jerusalem Luke 9:51-62
By R.A. Torrey0LUK 9:51R.A. Torrey emphasizes the unwavering commitment of Jesus as He sets His face toward Jerusalem, illustrating the misunderstandings of His disciples regarding the cost of true discipleship. He discusses the three would-be disciples who each fail to grasp the seriousness of following Christ, highlighting the need for a complete dedication that prioritizes Jesus above all earthly ties and comforts. Torrey warns against the dangers of procrastination and half-hearted commitments, urging believers to fully embrace the call of Christ without looking back. The sermon serves as a reminder that true discipleship requires sacrifice, readiness to face hardships, and a willingness to leave behind worldly attachments. Ultimately, Torrey calls for a deep reflection on what it means to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Isaiah 66:8
By Chuck Smith0ROM 8:26GAL 4:19Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of travail in achieving success, particularly in the context of Christianity. He illustrates how the church was built through the painful efforts of Christ, the apostles, and the Holy Spirit, highlighting that true success in faith requires earnestness and a willingness to suffer for the sake of others. Smith calls for Christians to engage in self-denial, intercession, and witnessing, stressing that dry-eyed Christians cannot effectively reach the world for Christ. He reminds the congregation of the urgency of souls perishing around them and the need for passionate commitment to the Gospel.
Spiritual Warfare - Part 2
By Phil Beach Jr.2243:102TI 2:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the call for Christians to enlist as soldiers in God's spiritual army, highlighting the importance of recognizing the ongoing spiritual warfare. He outlines six essential commitments required to serve effectively, including the willingness to fight, endure wounds, and accept inconveniences for the sake of the Gospel. The preacher encourages believers to embrace their identity as soldiers, equipped with the armor of God, and to remain steadfast in their faith despite challenges. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper love for Jesus, which empowers believers to fulfill their calling without feeling burdened by God's commandments.
Stablish, Strengthen, Settle You
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 37:5ISA 41:10ROM 5:32CO 1:21EPH 3:16PHP 1:6COL 2:6HEB 10:23JAS 1:121PE 5:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of having clear understanding and confidence in our relationship with Christ before making a commitment to Him. This commitment must be definitive and irrevocable, akin to planting a tree or a bride at the altar. Following this commitment, believers enter a period of establishment and testing, where they must remain steadfast until their new relationship with Christ becomes a permanent aspect of their lives. Simpson likens this process to a surgeon stabilizing a broken bone, highlighting that God provides spiritual support during this formative time. Ultimately, he reassures that the God of all grace will stablish, strengthen, and settle us after we have endured trials.
Luke 1:51
By Chuck Smith0Chuck Smith emphasizes the determination of Jesus as He sets His face towards Jerusalem, a place that symbolizes both hostility and divine purpose. He reflects on the attitude of Christ, who, despite rejection and suffering, remains committed to His mission, illustrating the need for believers to detach from worldly ties that hinder their spiritual journey. Smith highlights the importance of humility and the willingness to prioritize Christ's call over familial and societal obligations, urging followers to embrace a spirit of detachment for the sake of their faith. The sermon challenges listeners to examine their own loyalties and the obstacles that prevent them from fully following Christ.
On a Mountain Side
By G.W. North0MAT 11:28JHN 6:35G.W. North emphasizes the significance of true discipleship as demonstrated by Jesus during the miracle of feeding the five thousand. He explains that Jesus carefully orchestrated this event to teach profound truths about commitment and the nature of following Him. The sermon highlights that discipleship requires a deep conviction of spirit, not just a passive following, and that true followers must be drawn by the Father and willingly choose to follow Christ. North warns against the dangers of superficial beliefs and stresses the necessity of understanding the cost of discipleship, as many turned away from Jesus after His challenging teachings. Ultimately, he calls for a genuine imitation of Christ's life and teachings as the essence of true discipleship.
Resisting Laziness
By David Wilkerson0MAT 25:1MRK 13:35ROM 13:11EPH 5:14David Wilkerson addresses the growing trend of laziness among Christians in America, emphasizing that many desire to associate with Christ without true commitment or intimacy. He warns that this complacency leads to spiritual slumber, as illustrated by the parable of the ten virgins, where both wise and foolish fell asleep while waiting for the bridegroom. Wilkerson urges believers to awaken from their spiritual lethargy, reminding them that salvation is nearer than when they first believed and encouraging them to seek Jesus wholeheartedly. He stresses the importance of prayer and making Christ the focal point of their lives to resist the temptation of laziness.
Giving Up the Good
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 28:19LUK 19:10ROM 8:29K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the urgency of reaching the lost in his sermon 'Giving Up the Good,' highlighting that we are living in the 'beginning of the end' as prophesied in Revelation. He expresses deep concern for billions who do not know Christ, urging believers to act swiftly and decisively to rescue those heading toward eternal separation from God. Yohannan challenges the church to reject distractions and commit wholeheartedly to evangelism, drawing inspiration from Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost. He shares the story of Nepali missionaries who endure hardship to spread the Gospel, illustrating the cost of true discipleship. Ultimately, he calls for a radical commitment to follow Christ's example, emphasizing that the time to act is now.
The Young Man Buried in the Wrong Place
By Major Ian Thomas1156:09DEU 34:1Major Ian Thomas reflects on the tragic story of a young man who died prematurely and was buried inappropriately, using it as a metaphor for spiritual misdirection. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's true purpose in life and the necessity of being aligned with God's will. Thomas critiques the superficial teachings often presented to young people, urging a deeper engagement with the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He highlights that true life is found in Christ and that believers must fully commit their lives to Him, rather than merely existing in a state of spiritual complacency. The sermon calls for a genuine relationship with God, encouraging listeners to seek the living water that only He can provide.
God-Fearing People
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 10:32K.P. Yohannan shares the inspiring story of 50 God-fearing families in India who embraced Christianity and faced persecution from their village chief. Despite being given an ultimatum to either pay a penalty or deny Christ, these new believers chose to leave their homes rather than abandon their faith. Their unwavering commitment to Jesus, despite their lack of theological knowledge and resources, exemplifies true devotion and the transformative power of the Gospel. Yohannan reflects on their courage and the profound impact of their decision to follow Christ, highlighting that their motivation was solely their love for Jesus.
Betrothed to One Alone
By Erlo Stegen02CO 11:2Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of being fully committed to Christ, likening this commitment to a marriage where one cannot serve both God and the world. He warns against the dangers of having dual allegiances, particularly in the context of family relationships, where God must take precedence over spouses and children. Stegen highlights that living in sin or compromising with worldly values makes one an enemy of God, and he stresses the necessity of purity and discernment in both personal conduct and parenting. He calls for a return to godly standards, urging believers to reject worldly influences and to uphold the sanctity of their commitment to Christ. Ultimately, he warns that those who indulge in sin cannot inherit the kingdom of God, regardless of their church involvement.
As Much as in Me Is, I Am Ready
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 5:16LUK 9:23ROM 12:111CO 9:24PHP 3:14COL 3:232TI 1:6JAS 5:161PE 4:10REV 3:15A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of earnestness and passion in our devotion to Christ, urging believers to fully commit their hearts and lives to the Master and humanity. He highlights the urgency of the times we live in, where everything around us is alive and earnest, and calls for a baptism of fire to ignite our spirits. Simpson encourages a self-surrendered life that seeks to grasp God's vision and strive towards the ultimate prize in Christ Jesus. He passionately prays for a world dedicated to Jesus, longing for His return and the establishment of His kingdom.
Conditions of Discipleship Luke 14:25-35
By R.A. Torrey0LUK 14:25R.A. Torrey emphasizes the rigorous conditions of discipleship as outlined in Luke 14:25-35, highlighting that true followers of Christ must prioritize their love for Him above all earthly relationships, even to the point of 'hating' them in comparison. He explains that discipleship requires bearing one's cross, which symbolizes the shame and suffering that may come from loyalty to Christ, and stresses the importance of counting the cost before committing to follow Him. Torrey also notes that true disciples must be willing to forsake all they have for the sake of Christ, illustrating the necessity of total commitment and the dangers of losing one's spiritual fervor.
I counted...and I Count
By Samuel Logan Brengle0PHP 3:7Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the transformative power of unconditional surrender to Christ, as exemplified by the Apostle Paul, who counted all things as loss for the sake of knowing Jesus. He warns that youth is the ideal time for such a commitment, as age often brings caution and compromise. Brengle illustrates the dangers of half-hearted faith through the examples of Solomon, Ananias and Sapphira, and Demas, stressing that true satisfaction and fulfillment come only through complete devotion to Christ. He calls believers to recognize the weight of their commitment and the impact of their lives on the world, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith. Ultimately, he reassures that the Lord will provide strength and guidance to those who fully dedicate themselves to Him.
Come Let Us Go to Gilgal, and Renew
By F.B. Meyer0JOS 5:91SA 11:14PSA 2:6MAT 6:33ROM 12:12CO 5:17PHP 3:13COL 3:1HEB 10:24REV 3:20F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of renewing our commitment to Jesus as our King, drawing parallels from the Israelites' journey to Gilgal after Saul's victory. He highlights that just as the Israelites rolled away the reproach of uncircumcision at Gilgal, we too must periodically reaffirm our loyalty and devotion to Christ, especially when our enthusiasm wanes. Meyer encourages believers to revisit their dedication, reflect on their spiritual journey, and bring every aspect of their lives under Christ's lordship. The act of renewal is not a one-time event but a continual process of recommitting ourselves to God, symbolized by the significant moments at Gilgal. Ultimately, he reminds us that true blessings flow where Christ reigns.
Practicing the Truth
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 7:21ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:1PHP 2:12COL 3:17JAS 1:221JN 2:4REV 3:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the disconnect between Christians' emotional appreciation for truth and their reluctance to apply it in practice. He critiques the church for tolerating unscriptural practices and highlights the need for a genuine commitment to Christ that aligns both emotions and actions. Tozer questions whether many believers have truly experienced inward renewal, as they often prefer the comfort of feeling right over the challenge of living right. He warns that merely having a reputation of being alive, as noted in Revelation 3:1, can mask a deeper spiritual deadness.
When Jesus Comes (Will You Follow the Lamb, or Quit the Field Like Gideon's Thousands?)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0JHN 7:37Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the call to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, contrasting the commitment of true disciples with those who, like Gideon's fearful soldiers, choose to retreat. He highlights the necessity of forsaking all to truly live in the Spirit and experience the abundant life Jesus offers. Waldvogel urges believers to awaken to their calling and to live out the teachings of Christ, rather than merely going through religious motions. He reminds the congregation that the Holy Spirit empowers them to fulfill their divine purpose and that true discipleship requires a radical commitment to Christ. Ultimately, he challenges listeners to reflect on their own dedication and willingness to follow the Lamb wherever He leads.
The Acid Test
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 28:19MRK 16:15K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that the true measure of our commitment to Christ is our active participation in world evangelization, which reflects His deepest desire. He challenges believers to expand their vision beyond their immediate surroundings and to embrace the call to reach all nations, as commanded by Jesus in Mark 16:15. Yohannan addresses common excuses that hinder involvement, urging listeners to prioritize eternal realities over worldly concerns. He encourages a personal inventory of one's life to assess whether it is centered on God's mission or personal gain. Ultimately, he calls for a willingness to respond to God's call with a heart ready to serve.
Terms of Discipleship
By Roy Sommerville65834:51LUK 14:25Roy Sommerville emphasizes the true cost of discipleship in his sermon 'Terms of Discipleship,' explaining that while many are drawn to Christ for various reasons such as peace, comfort, and purpose, these motivations are insufficient for enduring faith. He highlights that true discipleship requires a radical commitment, including prioritizing love for Christ above all else, even family, and being willing to bear one's cross, which symbolizes a complete surrender to Christ's will. Sommerville warns that understanding the terms of discipleship is crucial to avoid falling away when challenges arise, as true followers must be prepared to let go of anything that hinders their relationship with Christ. He encourages listeners to reflect on what may be holding them back from fully committing to Christ and to take actionable steps towards obedience and faithfulness.
Will Be the Mark of the Normal Christian Life.
By Andrew Murray0MAT 28:19Andrew Murray emphasizes that many believers have been complacent in their Christian walk, merely playing at missions while failing to fully commit to the life God desires for them. He calls for a revival that awakens believers to the true essence of following Christ, which involves a wholehearted dedication to God's glory and the salvation of souls. This revival should inspire a collective enthusiasm within the church, leading to a life marked by selflessness and a genuine imitation of Christ's love for humanity. Murray believes that such a transformation is essential for the church to fulfill its mission effectively.
The Cup of the Lord
By T. Austin-Sparks0MAT 26:28LUK 22:20JHN 15:13ROM 12:11CO 10:161CO 11:252CO 5:15GAL 2:20EPH 2:13HEB 9:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of the cup of the Lord, which represents a communion in the blood of Christ and the new covenant established through His sacrifice. He explains that this covenant signifies a deep commitment where believers are called to lay down their lives for Christ, just as He laid down His life for them. The act of partaking in the cup is not merely a ritual but a solemn declaration of one's dedication to live for Christ and to embrace the covenant relationship with Him. Sparks encourages believers to reflect on the true meaning of the cup each time they partake, recognizing the call to a life fully committed to Jesus. He shares a poignant story illustrating the weight of this decision, highlighting the importance of honesty in one's commitment to the Lord.
Luke 9:51
By Chuck Smith0MAT 8:20MAT 10:37LUK 9:51JHN 15:20PHP 3:13HEB 12:2Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of following Christ, as exemplified in Luke 9:51, where Jesus resolutely heads to Jerusalem despite knowing the suffering that awaits Him. He reflects on how Jesus viewed Jerusalem with a mix of sorrow and hope, understanding both its impending destruction and future glory. Smith discusses the challenges of discipleship, highlighting that true loyalty to Christ may require sacrificing personal comforts and familial ties. He urges believers to not let anything hinder their commitment to follow Jesus, as He Himself faced hardships without looking back. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a steadfast heart focused on the victory that lies beyond present struggles.
The Meaning of Being Committed to Jesus Christ
By Major Ian Thomas1.2K43:32JHN 2:23Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the profound meaning of being committed to Jesus Christ, urging Christians to evaluate the quality of their commitment. He contrasts the dedication of card-carrying communists with the often superficial commitment seen in the church, highlighting that true commitment to Christ requires aligning with His purposes. Thomas challenges believers to consider whether Christ can trust them as they claim to trust Him, stressing that commitment must be rooted in a relationship with Jesus that reflects His mission. He illustrates this through biblical examples, ultimately calling for a total and absolute commitment to Christ that allows Him to work through believers effectively.
Chutney
By C.T. Studd0PHP 2:5C.T. Studd passionately expresses his desire to emulate Jesus, who sacrificed His glory to save sinners, emphasizing the call to live a life of dedication and battle for Christ. He rejects complacency and the comforts of a quiet life, urging believers to actively proclaim salvation and engage in spiritual warfare. Studd highlights the importance of genuine action over mere words, encouraging Christians to follow Jesus' example of courage and commitment in the face of adversity. He draws inspiration from biblical figures like Epaphroditus, who risked everything for the sake of the Gospel, and challenges his audience to stake their all for Christ.