Faith and Grace
Faith and Grace5
(Power From on High) 14. the Holy Spirit in Galatians
By A.B. Simpson0JHN 14:26GAL 3:1GAL 3:5GAL 4:6GAL 5:16GAL 5:22GAL 5:25GAL 6:1GAL 6:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, urging the Galatians to recognize that they received the Spirit not through works of the law but by faith. He warns against the dangers of returning to legalism and highlights that the Christian life is sustained by the same grace that saves us. Simpson explains that the Holy Spirit is essential for sanctification, empowerment for service, and the manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit, which is love. He encourages believers to walk in the Spirit, co-operating with God's work in their lives, and to approach others with compassion and humility. Ultimately, he reassures that sowing to the Spirit will yield eternal rewards.
Mark 7
By John Nelson Darby0MRK 7:6John Nelson Darby expounds on Mark 7, emphasizing Jesus' condemnation of the outward piety of the Pharisees, which he describes as hypocrisy that neglects the true commandments of God. He illustrates that true defilement comes from the heart, not from external actions, and highlights the importance of a pure heart in worship. Darby also shares the story of a Gentile woman whose faith transcends cultural barriers, demonstrating God's grace that reaches those in need regardless of their background. He concludes by reflecting on the healing of a deaf man, showcasing Jesus' compassion and the need for spiritual awakening among the people. The sermon calls for a genuine relationship with God that goes beyond mere rituals and traditions.
Credited to Our Account
By David Wilkerson0ROM 3:22ROM 4:6ROM 4:16ROM 4:20ROM 10:10David Wilkerson emphasizes that true justification and acceptance before God come solely through Christ's perfect righteousness, which is imputed to believers through faith. He explains that this righteousness is not earned by works but credited to our account by God, as illustrated in the lives of David and Abraham. Wilkerson highlights that understanding this imputation leads to a blessed and peaceful life, as it is through faith alone that we receive this gift. He reassures that our standing before God is based on Christ's accomplishments, not our own, and that this perfect righteousness is available to all who believe.
Jacob's Departure
By Peter Brandon549:57GEN 28:10Peter Brandon explores Jacob's departure from Beersheba, emphasizing the significance of his dream at Bethel where he encounters God through a vision of a ladder connecting heaven and earth. He reflects on Jacob's struggles, the importance of family dynamics, and the consequences of favoritism, while drawing parallels to contemporary issues of faith and materialism. Brandon highlights God's promises to Jacob, illustrating how divine grace meets us in our moments of helplessness. He encourages believers to seek a genuine relationship with God, emphasizing the need for spiritual authenticity over superficiality.
Emblems From Jacob's Pilgrimage
By A.B. Simpson0GEN 25:26GEN 27:36GEN 28:12ISA 41:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes Jacob's relatable journey through human frailty, suffering, and the transformative grace of God. He illustrates how Jacob's birth, birthright, vision at Bethel, and struggles at Penuel reflect our own spiritual journeys, highlighting the importance of faith, earnest prayer, and the need to rely on God's strength rather than our own. Simpson encourages believers to claim their spiritual inheritance and to remain steadfast in their covenant with God, warning against the dangers of returning to old ways after experiencing divine blessings. Ultimately, he reassures that despite our imperfections, God's faithfulness and grace can lead us to victory and eternal hope.