Faith and Understanding
Faith and Understanding4
Our Lord in the Parts of Dalmanutha and in Bethsaida Matthew 16:1-12
By R.A. Torrey1Faith and UnderstandingSpiritual BlindnessMAT 16:1R.A. Torrey emphasizes the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees and Sadducees, who, despite witnessing Jesus' miracles, demanded further signs, revealing their hardened hearts. He contrasts this with the healing of a blind man in Bethsaida, illustrating how faith and the gradual revelation of truth lead to spiritual sight. Torrey warns against the 'leaven' of false doctrine and encourages believers to recognize the signs of the times and the sufficiency of Christ's resurrection as the ultimate sign. He highlights the importance of understanding spiritual truths and the need for divine intervention in overcoming spiritual dullness. Ultimately, the sermon calls for vigilance against formalism and skepticism in faith.
A Reply to a Book, Entitled, a Defense of the Divine Right of Infant-Baptism.
By John Gill0BaptismFaith and UnderstandingMAT 28:19John Gill addresses the controversy surrounding infant baptism, responding to Peter Clark's defense of its divine right. He argues that infant baptism is an unscriptural practice rooted in tradition rather than biblical mandate, asserting that true baptism should be reserved for believers who can profess their faith. Gill emphasizes the need for a return to the practices of the early church, where baptism was administered to those who could understand and accept the gospel. He critiques the arguments for infant baptism, highlighting the lack of scriptural support and the historical context of the practice. Ultimately, Gill calls for a reformation in the understanding and administration of baptism, aligning it with the teachings of the New Testament.
On the Trinity
By John Wesley0The TrinityFaith and UnderstandingGEN 1:26MAT 28:19JHN 1:1JHN 10:30JHN 14:1ROM 8:162CO 13:14EPH 4:4COL 2:91JN 5:7John Wesley preaches on the Trinity, emphasizing that true religion is not merely about holding correct opinions but about a vital relationship with God. He argues that the doctrine of the Trinity, as stated in 1 John 5:7, is essential to understanding the nature of God and the Christian faith. Wesley acknowledges the mystery of the Trinity but insists that belief in the fact of the Trinity is crucial for genuine faith. He encourages believers to accept the revealed truths of God without needing to fully comprehend the mysteries behind them. Ultimately, Wesley asserts that the knowledge of the Triune God is foundational to all vital religion and Christian experience.
Christian Fools
By A.W. Pink0The Danger of Selective BeliefFaith and UnderstandingLUK 24:25A.W. Pink addresses the concept of 'Christian Fools,' emphasizing that many believers, like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, selectively accept parts of God's truth while rejecting others that challenge their understanding. He highlights the danger of relying on human logic over faith, leading to a distorted theology that fails to embrace the full counsel of God. Pink warns that this selective belief is prevalent in modern Christendom, where many are slow to believe all that the Scriptures teach, thus earning the rebuke of Christ. He calls for a balanced understanding of God's truth, urging believers to harmonize seemingly contradictory doctrines rather than dismiss them. Ultimately, Pink exhorts the unconverted to actively seek Christ and believe in Him for salvation, rather than waiting passively for divine intervention.