Divine Revelation
Divine Revelation27
Simeon's Revelation
By Erlo Stegen0LUK 2:25Erlo Stegen emphasizes the significance of bringing children to church, as exemplified by Joseph and Mary taking Jesus to the temple. He highlights Simeon, a righteous and devout man who awaited the Messiah with hope and purity, illustrating that a clean life allows for divine revelation. Simeon's assurance of seeing the Lord before his death serves as a reminder that true satisfaction and readiness for death come only through Christ. Stegen contrasts the peaceful death of believers with the agony of those who reject God, urging listeners to embrace Jesus and live in anticipation of His return. The sermon calls for a life of purity and expectation, encouraging all to seek their own revelation of Christ.
Christianity Mysterious
By John Nelson Darby0COL 1:261TI 3:16John Nelson Darby emphasizes the inherent mysteries of Christianity, arguing that the truths revealed in Scripture, such as the Incarnation and the dual nature of Christ, are beyond human comprehension and require divine revelation to understand. He asserts that to deny the mysterious aspects of faith is to undermine its depth and significance, as these mysteries reveal profound truths about God, sin, and redemption. Darby highlights that true understanding comes from being taught by God, and that the complexities of faith should not be simplified to fit human reasoning. He warns against a superficial interpretation of Christianity that neglects its rich, mysterious nature, which is essential for grasping the fullness of God's revelation.
Job 23:12
By Chuck Smith0JOB 23:12PSA 19:7PSA 119:105PRO 2:6ISA 55:11MAT 4:4JHN 1:1ROM 10:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12Chuck Smith emphasizes the profound value of God's Word in understanding and knowing God, as illustrated in Job's struggle to find Him amidst his suffering. He highlights that while Job had deep convictions about God, he could not perceive His presence, reflecting a common human experience of feeling distant from God despite His work around us. Smith stresses the necessity of divine revelation, asserting that the Bible serves as God's ultimate communication to humanity, providing guidance, strength, and understanding. He urges believers to prioritize God's Word in their lives, comparing its importance to the daily nourishment we seek for our bodies. Ultimately, knowing God through His Word is presented as the most crucial aspect of life.
God Reveals Himself
By A.W. Tozer0ISA 6:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true communion with God cannot be achieved through intellectual pursuits, as this would imply equality with God. He uses Isaiah as an example of how God reveals Himself not through human intellect but through divine grace and love. Tozer asserts that it is only when God chooses to reveal Himself that individuals can truly know Him, transcending mere psychological understanding. The sermon highlights the necessity of a willing spirit to receive God's revelation, which leads to a deeper spiritual connection. Ultimately, Tozer calls for Christians to embrace a faith that goes beyond natural understanding into the realm of spiritual truth.
Then Opened He Their Understanding
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 119:18PRO 2:6MAT 11:25LUK 24:45JHN 14:261CO 2:12EPH 1:17COL 1:9JAS 1:51JN 2:27C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the unique role of Jesus in opening the understanding of His followers, contrasting Him with other teachers who can only convey knowledge without imparting true spiritual insight. He highlights that while many can present Scripture, only Christ can prepare the heart to receive its deeper truths, enabling even the unlearned to grasp the mysteries of the kingdom. Spurgeon reflects on the transformation from ignorance to understanding that occurs through the Holy Spirit, underscoring the necessity of Jesus' intervention for spiritual enlightenment. He encourages believers to seek Christ's guidance in prayer to enhance their understanding of divine truths. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for a humble approach to learning at the feet of Jesus, recognizing Him as the sole source of true wisdom.
Into Arabia
By David Wilkerson0David Wilkerson emphasizes that true servitude to Christ requires a heart free from the desire for human approval. He reflects on the apostle Paul's journey, highlighting how Paul, despite his past as a persecutor, received his calling directly from Jesus rather than from men. Wilkerson points out that Paul sought revelation in solitude, away from the influence of others, demonstrating the importance of being emptied of self to fully embrace Christ's teachings. The sermon encourages believers to focus on pleasing Christ above all else, assuring that divine approval is far more fulfilling than human applause.
The Measure of Revelations
By John Fletcher0PSA 42:1ISA 40:31MAT 5:6JHN 14:21ROM 8:281CO 10:132CO 12:9EPH 3:20HEB 11:6JAS 4:8John Fletcher explores the varying degrees of divine revelation experienced by individuals, emphasizing that God's manifestations are tailored to the spiritual state and capacity of each person. He explains that while some may receive overwhelming revelations, others may not, as God wisely considers our readiness and the potential for misuse of such gifts. Fletcher encourages believers to actively seek God through prayer, faith, and obedience, while also being patient and open to His timing and methods. He highlights the importance of recognizing and responding to the Holy Spirit's guidance in our pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ. Ultimately, Fletcher reassures that God's grace and wisdom govern the measure of revelations granted to each soul.
The Revelation of the Spirit
By Andrew Murray01CO 2:4Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit's revelation for understanding God's wisdom, contrasting it with the insufficiency of human wisdom. He explains that true faith must be rooted in the power of God rather than in persuasive human arguments, as seen in Paul's preaching. Murray warns that many believers risk misunderstanding God's truth by relying on their own intellect instead of seeking spiritual illumination. He calls for a transformation in the church, urging believers to surrender their own wisdom and embrace the teaching of the Holy Spirit to truly grasp the mysteries of God. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the church to recognize the importance of divine revelation in knowing Christ as the wisdom and power of God.
Metamorphosis
By George Warnock0JHN 3:3ROM 1:20ROM 12:22CO 3:182CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 4:22PHP 1:6COL 3:101PE 1:23George Warnock explores the concept of metamorphosis through the scientific study of silkworms, illustrating how transformation requires the cooperation of two hormone centers, akin to the spiritual transformation believers undergo. He emphasizes that just as the silkworm needs both brain and thoracic hormones to change, Christians need both divine revelation and personal response to experience true transformation. Warnock highlights that God's presence is evident in creation, yet many fail to see it due to sin and unbelief, urging listeners to seek the truth revealed in nature and scripture.
The Study of God
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 119:105PRO 1:7ISA 55:8ROM 1:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical importance of theology, asserting that understanding God is essential for humanity, as we are made in His image and accountable to Him. He argues that Christian revelation provides the authoritative answers to life's profound questions, and neglecting these truths in favor of human philosophies is folly. Tozer compares this neglect to a motorist ignoring a road map, suggesting that while alternative methods may exist, they are inadequate for finding one's way home. He believes that the wisdom found in Scripture surpasses the greatest philosophical thoughts of ancient Greece, highlighting the value of divine revelation over human reasoning.
Some Thoughts on the Nature of Sin
By Art Katz0PSA 51:5ISA 53:5JHN 16:8ROM 3:23ROM 7:18GAL 6:7EPH 2:1HEB 9:261PE 2:241JN 3:4Art Katz discusses the profound nature of sin, emphasizing that our sinful condition blinds us to our true state and necessitates an external revelation from God. He explains that sin is not merely a legal transgression but a deep affront to God's character and authority, encapsulated in His commandments. The crucifixion of Jesus serves as the ultimate revelation of sin's seriousness and God's judgment, highlighting the cost of our transgressions. Katz asserts that true understanding of ourselves and God comes from recognizing our total helplessness and the necessity of divine confrontation. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of God's holiness and the gravity of sin as revealed through Christ's sacrifice.
2 Peter 1:18
By John Gill02PE 1:16John Gill emphasizes the significance of the voice from heaven heard by Peter, James, and John during the Transfiguration of Christ, which confirmed Jesus' divine glory and authority. This event served as a powerful testimony to the apostles, affirming their faith in Christ's future return in power and glory. Gill explains that the 'holy mount' refers to the mountain where this divine revelation occurred, highlighting the sacredness of the moment. The apostles were not only witnesses to this miraculous event but were also compelled to share the truth of Christ's power and coming based on both their experience and the prophetic word. This sermon encourages believers to trust in the certainty of Christ's return, grounded in both personal experience and Scripture.
Spying Out the Land
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 119:18ROM 8:141CO 2:142CO 5:17GAL 4:4EPH 1:15EPH 6:19PHP 3:20COL 1:26HEB 11:1T. Austin-Sparks explores the theme of 'Spying Out the Land,' contrasting the first and second missions of the spies sent by Israel to survey the Promised Land. He emphasizes that the first mission, driven by self-interest, led to failure, while the second, motivated by the glory of God, resulted in faith and triumph. Sparks highlights Paul's struggle to articulate the 'unsearchable riches' of Christ in his letters, particularly Ephesians, and the necessity of spiritual understanding through prayer. He encourages believers to approach the Scriptures with a heart open to divine revelation, akin to the second spying mission that returned with assurance and wonder. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper exploration of God's eternal purpose as revealed in Scripture.
Seeking to Do God's Will
By William MacDonald0PSA 37:4PRO 3:5JER 29:13MAT 7:7JHN 7:17JAS 1:5William MacDonald emphasizes the importance of a sincere desire to know and do God's will, as highlighted in John 7:17. He shares a powerful testimony of a desperate hippie who, at the brink of despair, cried out for God to reveal Himself and was met with a life-changing encounter with a Christian. This illustrates that God responds to those who genuinely seek Him, promising to reveal His will to anyone willing to follow it. MacDonald encourages believers to cultivate a deep desire for God's guidance, assuring that God is committed to meeting our needs when we prioritize His will above all else.
Learning About Faith Through Abraham Pt1
By Phil Beach Jr.1943:40GEN 12:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of faith through the example of Abraham, illustrating how God reveals Himself to those who seek Him. He compares humanity's spiritual hunger to people digging in dirt for food, while God offers the true sustenance found in Jesus Christ. The sermon highlights that true faith begins with a divine revelation of God, leading to a separation from worldly entanglements and an awakening to our heavenly citizenship. Beach encourages believers to seek a personal revelation of Christ and to live out their faith by embodying the characteristics of their heavenly identity.
Treasures Hidden in the Scriptures
By C.H. Spurgeon02TI 3:16C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the vastness and depth of the Scriptures, suggesting that while human writings often disappoint, the Bible is filled with profound revelations waiting to be discovered. He encourages believers to explore the hidden treasures within the Word of God, which contain insights and truths that can illuminate their understanding of Christ and His glory. Spurgeon reflects on the potential for deeper comprehension of Scripture, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and urges the congregation to seek these divine revelations.
Hope-or Despair?
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 11:25LUK 10:21JHN 3:27JHN 14:26ROM 11:331CO 2:14EPH 1:172TI 3:16JAS 1:171JN 5:20A.W. Tozer explores the dichotomy of hope and despair in humanity, emphasizing that true understanding and spiritual truth can only be received as a divine gift from heaven. He highlights John the Baptist's assertion that human reason cannot grasp divine truth, which leads to despair, while the promise of the Holy Spirit offers hope and revelation. Tozer underscores that this gift of knowing is not accessible through human wisdom but is revealed to those who are humble and receptive, as affirmed by Jesus' teachings.
The Greatness of the Church
By T. Austin-Sparks0MAT 7:22MAT 11:27MAT 13:46MAT 16:17MAT 18:20EPH 1:4EPH 1:12EPH 2:7EPH 3:10EPH 3:21T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound purpose of the Church, urging Christians to recognize their high calling beyond mere salvation. He highlights that the Church, as the Body of Christ, is meant to embody His glory and greatness, serving as a vessel through which God's revelation is made known. Sparks laments the loss of vision among believers, who often remain bound by tradition and fail to grasp the Church's eternal significance and stability rooted in Christ. He calls for a divine revelation to understand the true nature of the Church, which is not merely a human institution but a living expression of Christ's presence. Ultimately, the Church is called to fulfill a great vocation, serving God throughout the ages in close relationship with His Throne.
Principles of Faithful Bible Translation
By John Nelson Darby02TI 3:16John Nelson Darby emphasizes the critical importance of faithful Bible translation as a means to understand God's divine will, especially in the last days. He acknowledges the challenges faced by translators in conveying the richness of the original Greek text while ensuring accessibility for the unlearned. Darby asserts that while no translation can be perfect, the goal is to provide a clear and faithful rendering of Scripture that honors God's Word. He believes that the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in revealing the deeper meanings of Scripture, which can be lost in less precise translations. Ultimately, Darby encourages a commitment to accuracy in translation to help readers grasp the infinite wisdom of God as expressed in the Scriptures.
Job 11:7
By Chuck Smith0JOB 11:7HEB 1:1Chuck Smith explores the theme of searching for God, emphasizing that while humanity is aware of God's existence, understanding His nature cannot be achieved through mere intellectual pursuit. He argues that many people create their own versions of God, leading to confusion and a myriad of conflicting beliefs. Smith asserts that true knowledge of God comes through His self-revelation, primarily through the Scriptures and ultimately through Jesus Christ. He highlights that God reveals Himself not to our intellect but to our spirit, which must be awakened to truly comprehend His nature.
Paul on the Road to Damascus
By Art Katz0GEN 1:3PSA 36:9ZEC 12:10ZEC 14:6ACT 9:31CO 15:82CO 4:6GAL 3:231PE 2:9REV 1:7Art Katz explores the transformative experience of Paul on the road to Damascus, emphasizing the divine revelation of Christ that changed Paul's life and mission. He highlights that this moment was not just a personal encounter but a foundational event for the entire apostolic faith, illustrating how God's light dispels darkness and reveals truth. Katz draws parallels between Paul's experience and the future revelation of Christ to Israel, suggesting that just as Paul was transformed, so too will Israel recognize their Messiah. The sermon underscores the necessity of acknowledging one's sin and the profound conversion that comes from encountering God's grace. Ultimately, Katz calls for believers to reflect on their own encounters with Christ and the implications for their lives and witness.
Of the Incarnation of Christ.
By John Gill0LUK 2:10JHN 1:14John Gill emphasizes the profound mystery and significance of the incarnation of Christ, asserting that it is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. He explains that the eternal Son of God took on human flesh, born of a virgin, to fulfill God's promise of salvation and to reconcile humanity to Himself. Gill highlights that this act was not only a divine revelation but also a necessary condition for Christ to serve as the perfect mediator and sacrifice for sin. The sermon underscores the importance of recognizing Jesus as both fully God and fully man, a truth essential for true Christian belief. Through this incarnation, God demonstrated His love and grace towards humanity, making it possible for believers to receive eternal life.
The Bible and Religious Experience
By Samuel Logan Brengle01SA 3:21HEB 1:1Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that God reveals Himself to humanity rather than the other way around, showcasing His power and love through nature, conscience, and ultimately through the Scriptures. He argues that while nature provides a glimpse of God's majesty, it is through the Bible that we find a complete and clear revelation of His character and will. Brengle highlights the necessity of spiritual openness and faith to truly understand and experience the Scriptures, as they are vital for a fulfilling Christian life. He also addresses the importance of compassionate ministry to those struggling with faith, urging believers to guide seekers towards a deeper understanding of God's promises. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace the Bible as the ultimate source of divine truth and inspiration.
The Revelatory Light of Scripture
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 19:7PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 8:20MAT 4:4JHN 17:171TI 3:162TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the absolute clarity of God's truth compared to the often ambiguous nature of human reasoning. He urges believers to align themselves with God's side, which is inherently good and holy, despite potential conflicts with societal philosophies. Tozer highlights the Bible as the definitive source of divine revelation, illuminating the path to understanding God's will and moral truth. He encourages a deep acquaintance with Scripture, asserting that it provides clarity and guidance in a world filled with confusion. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to God's truth as the only reliable foundation for moral living.
The Unity of the Spirit and the Word of God
By John Nelson Darby01CO 2:6John Nelson Darby emphasizes the necessity of true unity in the Spirit over superficial religious unions, warning against the dangers of amalgamating corrupt practices that God judges. He critiques the tendency of churches to seek unity based on human wisdom and creeds, which ultimately leads to a dilution of true Christianity. Darby asserts that the revelation of God's truth comes through the Holy Spirit, and that understanding should not be based on human judgment but on divine inspiration. He highlights the importance of receiving God's word with humility and allowing it to act upon us rather than attempting to judge it. The sermon calls for a return to the unity of the Spirit, which is essential for the body of Christ.
Exploring Divine Revelation
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 19:1A.W. Tozer explores the vastness of divine revelation, emphasizing that God has provided a limitless world of truth for believers to inhabit spiritually and intellectually. He illustrates that this universe of truth is as essential to the soul as air is to a bird, allowing Christians to thrive in their faith. Tozer asserts that while orthodoxy is crucial, it should not confine the mind; believers can embrace Christian truths without sacrificing their intellectual freedom. He encourages a balance between adhering to the Christian creed and allowing one's imagination to explore the wonders of nature and grace.
Misreading God's Self-Revelation
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 19:1ROM 1:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes that humans are naturally inclined to heresy and error, instinctively gravitating towards falsehoods. While natural theology reveals some truth about God's glory through creation, it remains insufficient for a complete understanding of God. Tozer argues that divine revelation through Scripture is essential to fill in the details of God's nature and character, allowing the Holy Spirit to illuminate the full picture of truth. He highlights the importance of relying on God's Word to gain a deeper and more accurate understanding of Him.