Companionship with Christ
Companionship with Christ4
The Changed Position of the Companions
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 9:7JHN 1:122CO 4:7HEB 2:1HEB 11:40HEB 12:11HEB 12:26T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Letter to the Hebrews as a divine appeal for companions of Christ, particularly during a time of crisis for the Hebrew Christians. He highlights the transition from the old earthly system to a new heavenly calling, urging believers to recognize that God is actively seeking companions who will move forward with Him. The sermon underscores that God's communication is centered in His Son, Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of God's message and purpose. Sparks warns that just as the old system was shaken, so too will earthly systems face upheaval, calling Christians to embrace their identity in Christ and the transformative power of suffering. Ultimately, he encourages believers to trust in God's discipline as a sign of His love and to seek the deeper knowledge of the Lord through trials.
The Lord's Table and the Companions
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 12:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Lord's Table as a representation of companionship with Christ, contrasting it with the rejection of Judas and Israel. He explores the Passover's meaning, highlighting God's judgment against Egypt's gods and the importance of the blood as a sign of loyalty and protection for God's companions. The sermon illustrates the transition from the old Israel to the new spiritual Israel, where the Lord's Supper symbolizes a blood covenant and betrothal between Christ and His Church. Sparks calls for a recognition of the sacredness of the Lord's Table, urging believers to understand their identity as companions of Christ, set apart from the world. Ultimately, he encourages a commitment to uphold this covenant and the significance of the blood in their relationship with God.
Who Are the Companions?
By T. Austin-Sparks0ZEC 9:9LUK 14:14ACT 26:19ACT 28:28ROM 9:3PHP 3:8HEB 12:25T. Austin-Sparks explores the Letter to the Hebrews, emphasizing the conflict between Jewish traditions and the new spiritual calling in Christ. He highlights the Apostle Paul's deep desire for his fellow Hebrews to accept Jesus as the Messiah, contrasting their rejection with the heavenly calling offered to believers. Sparks warns Hebrew Christians against returning to their old ways, urging them to embrace their identity as companions of Christ, who are called to a heavenly and spiritual existence. He illustrates the transition from the earthly Israel to a new spiritual Israel, underscoring the importance of recognizing Jesus' rightful place as God's Son. Ultimately, he encourages believers to grasp the magnitude of their calling and the greatness of Christ.
The Purpose of Companions
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 33:11ISA 41:8MAT 21:43LUK 22:28JHN 15:14ACT 13:22EPH 1:23HEB 2:3HEB 3:1HEB 3:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of being 'companions' of Christ, as highlighted in Hebrews 3:1 and 3:14. He explores the biblical concept of companionship, illustrating how figures like Abraham, Moses, and David exemplified deep relationships with God, ultimately culminating in the companionship offered through Jesus Christ. Sparks stresses that this companionship is not merely an official title but a heartfelt relationship that calls for responsibility and commitment to God's purpose centered in His Son. He warns of the consequences of neglecting this calling, underscoring the importance of remaining steadfast in faith to truly experience the greatness of being a companion of Christ. The sermon invites believers to recognize their heavenly calling and the intimate relationship they are invited to share with Jesus.