Community in Christ
Community in Christ11
Loving Others: By Seeing God's Glory (Jn. 15:12; 17:22)
By Mike Bickle331:08:55MAT 16:18JHN 15:12JHN 17:22EPH 4:16HEB 2:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of loving others as a reflection of God's glory, urging the congregation to extend their love beyond familiar circles to those who feel unnoticed or unloved. He highlights that true love mirrors the relationship within the Trinity and is essential for the church's mission, as it demonstrates God's character to the world. Bickle encourages believers to actively seek out and include those who may feel isolated within the church community, reinforcing that every member has a pastoral calling to love and support one another.
Epistle 164
By George Fox0MAT 18:202CO 2:15COL 1:18HEB 2:14HEB 10:241JN 3:8George Fox emphasizes the importance of gathering in the power of the Lord, encouraging believers to meet regularly and provoke one another to love and good works. He stresses that true edification, life, and peace come from being united in Christ, who is the head of the church and the source of eternal life. Fox urges the community to be established in their faith, demonstrating a steadfastness that reflects God's glory and serves as a blessing to others. He reassures them that their worship and truth are already found in Christ, who overcomes all that causes suffering. Ultimately, he calls for a deep connection with the Lord, who reigns above all and provides life everlasting.
Epistle 205
By George Fox0MAT 18:20HEB 10:24George Fox emphasizes the importance of living in God's dominion and power, which exists beyond the trials and tribulations of life. He contrasts 'summer religion,' which is superficial and fades in adversity, with a true faith rooted in God's power that withstands all storms. Fox encourages believers to gather in the name of Jesus, supporting one another in love and good works, and to remain steadfast against any forces that seek to separate them from God's love. He reminds them that Christ is the ultimate source of life and light, capable of overcoming darkness and death. The sermon calls for a deep, enduring faith that transcends temporary challenges.
The Local Expression of the Church
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 58:10MAT 28:19ACT 19:10ROM 14:71CO 12:12GAL 6:2EPH 4:161TH 1:8HEB 10:24REV 2:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical role of local expressions of the Church, highlighting their significance in the New Testament and the spiritual warfare against them by evil forces. He outlines the necessity for local churches to be vibrant, outward-focused communities that not only nurture their members but also extend their influence beyond their immediate surroundings. The preacher stresses that a true local church should be a refuge, provide personal ministries, and serve as a training ground for believers, fostering cooperation and collective growth. He warns against isolation and individualism, advocating for a church life that embodies the teachings of Christ and the work of the Cross. Ultimately, the local church is portrayed as a vital instrument in God's plan, essential for the health of the universal Church.
Religious Elitism
By A.W. Tozer0LUK 14:13A.W. Tozer addresses the issue of religious elitism, criticizing those who dismiss the value of popular Christianity and prefer to isolate themselves in a spiritual elite. He compares this attitude to cultural snobbery, where individuals look down on others for their preferences and beliefs. Tozer warns that such a mindset can lead to a lack of compassion and connection with the broader community of believers. He emphasizes that while the desire for deeper understanding of God is commendable, it should not come at the expense of engaging with and loving others. Ultimately, he calls for a spirit that aligns with the inclusive nature of Christ's teachings.
Let Us - Love One Another
By Phil Beach Jr.3049:08JHN 15:12ROM 13:101CO 13:4GAL 5:13EPH 4:2PHP 2:1COL 3:14HEB 13:11JN 3:161JN 4:7Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of love in the Christian community, urging believers to recognize their weaknesses and rely on God's grace to cultivate a spirit of brotherly love. He highlights the necessity of working together in faith, balancing personal devotion with corporate growth, and warns against the individualistic mindset prevalent in society. The sermon explores the distinction between human love, which is often conditional and fleeting, and divine love, which is sacrificial and unconditional, encouraging the congregation to embody the latter. Beach Jr. calls for a deeper understanding of love as a means to support one another and grow in Christlikeness, ultimately leading to a more authentic Christian life.
"Reasons for Assembling"
By A.W. Tozer0HEB 10:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of assembling as believers, highlighting that through the one final sacrifice of Jesus, we are called to gather together in faith. He explains that assembling is not only a normal practice but essential for spiritual growth and community, as we draw closer to Christ and to one another. Tozer warns against the dangers of neglecting the assembly due to personal issues or external excuses, urging believers to recognize the value of communal worship and the unique blessings it brings. He concludes by affirming the importance of both personal and communal faith, encouraging the congregation to cherish their time together in worship and communion.
Finding Fellowship
By David Wilkerson0PSA 107:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of finding true fellowship among believers, drawing from Psalm 107 to illustrate the plight of those who once experienced God's fullness but now wander in spiritual desolation. He highlights the struggle many face in locating a church that meets their needs, leading some to abandon their search altogether. Wilkerson reassures that God has a body of believers worldwide, and encourages the faithful to seek out their 'city' of worship, as fellowship is vital to maintaining a vibrant relationship with Christ. He reminds us that God delights in His children gathering together in worship, and urges believers to boldly ask for guidance in finding their community.
Loving Others in the Love of God (Jn. 15:12)
By Mike Bickle4354:35MAT 22:39LUK 6:31JHN 15:12ROM 13:10GAL 6:2EPH 4:32HEB 10:251PE 4:81JN 3:181JN 4:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the call to love others as God loves us, rooted in John 15:12. He explains that God's love is wholehearted and should inspire us to express that love to others, particularly those who feel unnoticed or unvalued. Bickle challenges the spirit of entitlement that often arises when discussing love within the church, urging believers to take the initiative to love and support one another. He highlights the importance of community and belonging in the body of Christ, encouraging a shift from seeking to be loved to actively loving others. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to embody God's love in our relationships, fostering a spiritual family that reflects the heart of the Father.
K-554 Speaking the Truth
By Art Katz1.1K50:47EPH 4:11Art Katz emphasizes the vital importance of 'speaking the truth in love' as a foundational practice for the church, drawing from Ephesians 4. He argues that this practice is essential for the perfecting of the saints and the edification of the body of Christ, enabling believers to grow into the fullness of Christ. Katz highlights that true community is not merely a social experiment but a divine calling that requires vulnerability and honesty among believers. He warns against the dangers of individualism and the need for a corporate expression of faith that reflects God's wisdom and love. Ultimately, Katz calls the church to embrace this truth in love to fulfill God's cosmic purpose and demonstrate His manifold wisdom to the world.
Keeping Eternal Perspective
By Phil Beach Jr.3143:072CO 1:3Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the necessity of maintaining an eternal perspective through the collaboration of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. He encourages believers to support one another in their spiritual journeys, fostering a community driven by love and good works. The sermon highlights that our personal struggles and triumphs are not solely for our benefit but serve to comfort and uplift others, reflecting the transformative power of Christ in our lives. Beach Jr. calls for a shift from self-centered interpretations of our experiences to a focus on how they can contribute to the body of Christ. Ultimately, he urges the congregation to become a dwelling place for the Lord, where His presence can rest and work through them.