Divine Authority
Divine Authority9
The Sovereignty of God
By A.W. Pink0JOB 42:2PSA 22:28PSA 103:19PSA 115:3PRO 21:1ISA 46:10DAN 4:35ROM 8:28EPH 1:111TI 6:15A.W. Pink emphasizes the sovereignty of God as a foundational truth that has been neglected in contemporary discourse. He explains that God's sovereignty signifies His supremacy, kingship, and ultimate authority over all creation, asserting that He acts according to His will without opposition. Pink laments the loss of understanding regarding this doctrine, which is essential for interpreting history and providence, and for strengthening Christian faith. He highlights that acknowledging God's sovereignty is crucial for recognizing His power and governance over nations and kingdoms. Ultimately, Pink calls believers to reclaim this vital truth that defines the nature of God as the Almighty.
Authority in Preaching
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 28:18ACT 20:27ROM 10:142CO 5:20EPH 6:19COL 1:281TH 2:132TI 4:2HEB 4:121PE 4:11A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of divine authority in preaching, asserting that preachers must embody the authority of God to hold their congregations accountable to the Word. He critiques the lack of moral ascendancy in many pulpits, suggesting that some preachers have been dulled by seminary training, failing to challenge their congregations effectively. Tozer argues that a preacher should reign from the pulpit with the same authority as a king, relying on the Holy Spirit to empower their message. The call is for preachers to deliver the whole counsel of God with conviction, ensuring that their words resonate with divine power.
The Experience of ministry... Pictured by Elijah
By T. Austin-Sparks01KI 17:1JAS 5:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of God's sovereign choice in the life of Elijah, illustrating how God prepares His servants through discipline and dependence on Him. Elijah's ministry exemplifies the need for continuous guidance from God, as he navigates challenges that require divine authority and secret preparation. The sermon highlights the importance of being adjustable to God's leading, even when circumstances seem contradictory, as seen in Elijah's experience with the widow and her son. Ultimately, the message conveys that true ministry arises from a deep relationship with God, marked by trials that lead to spiritual resurrection and growth.
The Door of Vision
By Duncan Campbell1REV 4:1Duncan Campbell emphasizes the significance of the 'Door of Vision' as he reflects on John's awe-inspiring vision of God's throne in Revelation. He highlights the importance of maintaining a connection with the Throne to empower believers in their spiritual journey and service. Campbell shares a powerful testimony from the Lewis revival, illustrating how a young man's vision of the Lamb on the throne led to a transformative outpouring of God's power. He urges the congregation to recognize their need for divine help and to seek a deeper communion with Christ, which is essential for a life of sacrificial service. Ultimately, Campbell calls for a renewed focus on the Throne Vision to inspire faithfulness and victory in the face of life's challenges.
Spiritual Leadership
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that true spiritual leadership is a divine gift, not determined by human status or education. He illustrates this through biblical examples like Joseph, Paul, and Moses, who achieved greatness through their relationship with God rather than worldly accolades. Brengle stresses that spiritual leaders must pay the price of humility, prayer, and self-surrender to maintain their connection with God. He warns that neglecting this divine relationship can lead to a loss of spiritual authority, regardless of past achievements. Ultimately, he encourages aspiring leaders to seek God earnestly, as true leadership is rooted in a vibrant spiritual life.
The Moral Nature and Fitness of Things Considered
By John Gill0GEN 1:3PSA 115:3ISA 45:7DAN 4:35EPH 1:11John Gill addresses the sermon 'The Moral Nature and Fitness of Things Considered' by Samuel Chandler, critiquing the notion that moral good and evil exist independently of God's will. He argues that if moral distinctions arise from the nature of things, it implies a deity superior to God, which contradicts divine revelation. Gill emphasizes that moral obligations stem from God's will and nature, not from an abstract moral order, and warns against the implications of viewing moral fitness as a separate standard. He concludes that such views could lead to polytheism, deism, antinomianism, and libertinism, undermining the authority of God's law.
Lord of His Body
By G.W. North01CO 12:12G.W. North emphasizes that the Corinthians misused their spiritual gifts, believing they could operate independently of Christ's authority. He explains that spiritual gifts should function under divine guidance, just as the body operates under the control of the brain. North warns against the misconception that having received the Holy Spirit grants unrestricted use of these gifts, stressing the need for cooperation with God in their application. He illustrates the natural and synchronized functioning of a healthy body, highlighting that all actions are ultimately under divine command. The sermon calls for believers to recognize their dependence on Christ as the Head of the Body for effective ministry.
The Lord Is King for Ever and Ever
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 2:6ISA 9:6MAT 28:18EPH 1:22COL 1:19REV 19:16C.H. Spurgeon proclaims that Jesus Christ is the true King, anointed by God, who reigns with all power and authority over heaven, earth, and hell. He emphasizes that Christ's kingship is not a matter of popular vote but a divine right, and every believer should joyfully crown Him as King. Spurgeon encourages the faithful to glorify Christ through their love and gratitude, recognizing His victory over sin and bondage. He calls for a heartfelt response to Christ's gentle rule, urging believers to acknowledge Him as their Liberator and King. Ultimately, Spurgeon exclaims the eternal reign of King Jesus, inviting all to honor Him with their lives.
Ascension of Christ
By George G. Findlay0MRK 16:19LUK 24:51JHN 14:2JHN 20:17ACT 1:9ROM 1:4EPH 1:20PHP 2:9COL 3:1HEB 7:26George G. Findlay emphasizes the significance of Christ's ascension as a divine affirmation of His identity as the Son of God. He explains that Jesus' ascension completes the resurrection and serves as a final confirmation of His supernatural life and authority. Findlay reflects on the calmness of this event, portraying it as a natural return to His heavenly origin, akin to a son returning home after completing his tasks. The sermon highlights that Jesus' departure was not just an end but a transition back to the Father, fulfilling His mission on earth. The promise of His return is also underscored, reminding believers of the hope that lies in His ascension.