Faith and Assurance
Faith and Assurance12
Five Main Reasons Why Many Believers Are Not Baptised in the Holy Spirit
By Zac Poonen1JHN 7:37ACT 1:8Zac Poonen addresses the five main reasons many believers are not baptized in the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that intellectual beliefs, feelings of unworthiness, misconceptions about God's goodness, lack of desperation, and waiting for specific experiences hinder their reception of the Spirit. He encourages believers to recognize that God's gifts are freely given and that faith should be as simple as drinking. Poonen stresses the importance of thirsting for the Spirit, believing in God's promises, and receiving the power that comes from the Holy Spirit. He reminds listeners that assurance of the Spirit's presence is available to all who ask in faith. Ultimately, he calls for immediate action, stating that today is the day of salvation.
Kept by the Power of God.
By Andrew Bonar0EPH 1:191PE 1:5Andrew Bonar emphasizes the assurance that believers are 'kept by the power of God,' highlighting both our weakness and the divine strength that surrounds us. He reassures those who fear disgrace in their faith that God's power is a protective force, ensuring that no one can separate us from His love. Bonar explains that while we are to keep ourselves through faith, it is ultimately God's power that sustains our belief and keeps us secure. He encourages believers to focus on Christ and His righteousness, reminding them that even in times of trial, God will uphold them. The sermon concludes with the promise of a reserved inheritance in heaven, emphasizing God's commitment to keeping His people until the day of salvation is revealed.
1 Corinthians 10
By John Nelson Darby01CO 10:1John Nelson Darby expounds on 1 Corinthians 10, emphasizing that while the Israelites experienced God's blessings, many were ultimately lost due to disobedience. He warns that outward participation in Christian practices does not guarantee salvation, as true faith must be accompanied by a life that pleases God. Darby illustrates the importance of maintaining assurance in one's faith and the dangers of complacency, drawing parallels between the early church and the Israelites in the wilderness. He highlights the significance of communion and the need for believers to identify with Christ rather than the world, urging a commitment to holiness and unity within the body of Christ.
The Promises of God--No. 1
By Charles Finney0PSA 34:17ISA 41:10ISA 44:3JER 31:31EZK 36:25MAT 11:28MRK 11:24HEB 11:13JAS 1:52PE 1:4In his sermon 'The Promises of God--No. 1', Charles Finney emphasizes the significance of God's promises as exceeding great and precious, intended for the Christian Church and its individuals. He explains that these promises are designed to help believers partake in the divine nature and escape worldly corruption, while also addressing why they may not be fulfilled in our lives. Finney highlights that the promises are applicable to all believers, regardless of their circumstances, and stresses the necessity of faith and understanding in claiming these promises. He encourages the congregation to recognize the vast array of promises available to them, which cater to every need and situation they may face.
Our Lord at the Feast of Dedication John 10:22-42
By R.A. Torrey0PSA 82:6JHN 5:36JHN 8:47JHN 10:22JHN 14:10JHN 17:2R.A. Torrey explores the significance of Jesus' declaration at the Feast of Dedication, emphasizing His identity as the Son of God and the Giver of Eternal Life. He discusses the disbelief of the Jews despite witnessing His miraculous works and highlights the intimate relationship between Jesus and the Father, asserting their oneness. Torrey underscores the assurance given to Christ's sheep, who are eternally secure in His hand, and the necessity of faith in recognizing Jesus' divine nature. The sermon also addresses the misunderstanding and hostility of the Jews towards Jesus, culminating in their attempts to stone Him for blasphemy. Ultimately, Torrey calls for a deeper understanding of Jesus' works and the faith required to accept Him as the Messiah.
Coming to Christ.
By Andrew Bonar0MAT 11:28Andrew Bonar emphasizes the simplicity of coming to Christ, addressing the natural man's tendency to complicate faith with self-righteousness and doubt. He explains that the act of coming to Christ is not about understanding complex feelings or experiences, but rather about focusing on Christ Himself, who invites all to come and find rest. Bonar reassures that the invitation to 'come' is a call to leave behind distractions and to trust in Christ's sufficiency for salvation. He highlights that true coming to Christ involves a heart fully occupied with Him, leading to peace and rest for the weary soul. Ultimately, Bonar encourages believers to respond to Christ's call without hesitation, finding assurance in His promise of salvation and rest.
Profiting From the Word 8. the Scriptures and the Promises
By A.W. Pink0PSA 139:17PRO 23:23ROM 5:21ROM 9:82CO 1:20EPH 2:12PHP 4:19HEB 11:13HEB 13:52PE 1:4A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of God's promises in the Scriptures, illustrating how they reveal God's love and grace towards His people. He explains that these promises are not only assurances of blessings but also require believers to actively engage with them, recognizing their conditions and appropriating them in faith. Pink warns against the misuse of promises by those outside of Christ and encourages believers to patiently await their fulfillment while living in accordance with God's will. Ultimately, he highlights that the promises serve as a foundation for faith and a source of comfort in both spiritual and daily life.
To Know His Voice
By David Wilkerson0JHN 10:2David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's voice amidst the noise of the world. He outlines three key requirements for hearing God's voice: having unwavering confidence that God desires to speak to us, dedicating quality time in quietness to listen, and asking in faith for understanding. Wilkerson reassures that God's communication brings peace, which is a clear indicator of His presence, contrasting it with the confusion that comes from the enemy. Ultimately, knowing God's voice is essential for following His will and living a life aligned with His purpose.
Proclaiming the Victory
By David Wilkerson0PSA 32:11PSA 89:15ISA 61:10JHN 3:16ROM 5:11EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 10:221PE 1:18REV 12:11David Wilkerson emphasizes the obligations that come with being sprinkled by the blood of Jesus, urging believers to live in peace without doubt and to offer heartfelt praise to God. He draws a parallel between the Israelites' confidence in their pardon through Moses' sprinkling of blood and the modern-day believer's struggle with doubt despite the greater sacrifice of Christ. Wilkerson warns against the sacrilege of holding onto guilt and fear, encouraging a life of gratitude and joy in the assurance of salvation. He calls for a proclamation of victory through Jesus' blood, reminding believers to rejoice in their redemption and the righteousness bestowed upon them.
Rev. 22:21. the Last Amen
By Horatius Bonar0PSA 119:89ISA 55:11JHN 14:6ROM 15:132CO 1:20PHP 4:41TH 5:16HEB 11:11PE 1:8REV 22:21Horatius Bonar emphasizes the profound significance of the word 'Amen' in prayer, illustrating its meanings from ignorance to faith. He explains that 'Amen' should be a declaration of truth, certainty, and faithfulness, reflecting our confidence in God's promises. Bonar categorizes the different ways 'Amen' can be uttered, urging believers to move from mechanical or indifferent responses to heartfelt affirmations of faith and hope. He encourages the congregation to let their 'Amens' resonate with joy and expectation, recognizing the power and love of God in their prayers. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a transformation in how we conclude our prayers, making 'Amen' a true expression of our faith and trust in God.
"Someone" Is There
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 46:1MAT 18:20JHN 14:23ACT 2:42HEB 11:6A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound reality of God's presence in the lives of believers, illustrating how faith brings a tangible sense of encountering a real Person. He highlights that the Scriptures reflect this intimate relationship, where biblical figures conversed with God, experiencing His presence in a way that filled them with wonder. This conviction of God's presence was a source of strength for the early Christian church, enabling them to withstand criticism and doubt. Tozer asserts that true worship of the present God fortifies believers against the challenges posed by unbelief. Ultimately, the awareness of 'Someone' being there transforms religion into a powerful, invulnerable experience.
After the Holiness Meeting
By Samuel Logan Brengle0JOB 23:12PSA 1:2PSA 19:10ISA 54:11JER 29:11MAT 4:4JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ROM 8:37GAL 5:25Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the significance of receiving the Holy Spirit after a holiness meeting, encouraging believers to maintain their faith even if they do not initially feel His presence. He reassures that God has wonderful plans for them and that the Holy Spirit will glorify Jesus in their hearts, guiding them to a deeper understanding of Scripture. Brengle warns against doubt and confusion that may arise after receiving the Holy Spirit, urging believers to trust in God's promises and to actively engage in their faith. He highlights the importance of living in the Spirit and being a channel for His power, while also preparing for trials that may come as a result of their faith. Ultimately, he reassures that nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus.