Compassion for Others
Compassion for Others5
(The Full Gospel) 7. How God Exposes Pharisees in the Church
By Zac Poonen0JOB 42:7PRO 31:8EZK 18:20MAT 6:5MRK 3:5LUK 10:25LUK 15:11LUK 16:19JHN 9:2EPH 4:26Zac Poonen emphasizes the danger of Pharisaism within the church, highlighting how Jesus expressed anger towards the indifference of the Pharisees to human suffering, as seen in Mark 3:5. He urges believers to distinguish between Christ-like anger, which is directed at injustice and indifference, and sinful anger, which is often self-centered. Poonen warns against the tendency to judge others based on external appearances and encourages a deeper devotion to God that manifests in love and mercy towards those in need. He illustrates this through biblical examples, including the parable of the Good Samaritan and the story of Job, stressing that true spirituality is measured by our compassion for others rather than our religious activities.
This Day Is a Day of Good Tidings.
By F.B. Meyer02KI 7:9ISA 55:1MAT 28:19F.B. Meyer emphasizes that today is a day of good tidings, reflecting on the miraculous deliverance from famine experienced by the lepers in 2 Kings. He urges believers to share the Gospel and the blessings they have received, warning against the dangers of selfishness in withholding the good news from those in need. Meyer highlights that sharing the message of Christ not only benefits others but also enriches the giver, as they experience God's abundance. He encourages believers to testify about their personal experiences with Jesus, as authentic testimony is more powerful than mere arguments. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a compassionate response to a world in agony, inviting all to partake in the grace of God.
Continual Guidance
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 32:8PSA 37:5PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 40:31ISA 58:11MAT 7:7JHN 10:27PHP 4:19JAS 1:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the continual guidance of the Lord as a source of comfort for those feeling lost or entangled in life's complexities. He encourages believers to stand still and seek God's direction, reminding them that true guidance comes when they relinquish self-will and commit their paths to Him. Spurgeon highlights that this promise of guidance is contingent upon showing compassion and care for others, particularly those in need. By being kind-hearted and generous, believers can expect the Lord to lead them faithfully through every aspect of their lives. Ultimately, Jesus is portrayed as the guide for those who are tenderhearted and generous, ensuring they will not lose their way.
Living as Relatives to Humankind
By A.W. Tozer0LUK 19:41ROM 9:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity, asserting that we are made for each other and that our actions impact those around us. He reflects on Jesus' compassion for Jerusalem and Paul's deep sorrow for his fellow Israelites, illustrating that true Christian peace cannot be found in isolation from human suffering. Tozer argues that seeking tranquility by ignoring the pain of others is contrary to the Christian calling, and that genuine peace comes from the presence of Christ within us. He challenges the notion of retreating from the world, advocating instead for active engagement in the lives of others as a true expression of faith.
"Could You Not Watch One Hour?"
By J.R. Miller0MAT 26:40J.R. Miller reflects on the disappointment Jesus felt in Gethsemane when His closest disciples failed to stay awake and support Him during His time of agony. Despite His request for just one hour of their companionship and prayer, they succumbed to sleep, missing the opportunity to provide Him with the strength of their love. Miller emphasizes the significance of this moment, illustrating how the disciples' lack of vigilance not only saddened Jesus but also made His struggle more difficult. He draws a parallel to the story of the robin, which symbolizes the importance of compassion and support in times of suffering. Ultimately, Miller urges believers to remain vigilant and supportive of Jesus' cause and His people, ensuring they do not disappoint Him as the disciples did.