Grace and Mercy
Grace and Mercy9
A Sin Unto Death
By Theodore Epp01JN 5:14Theodore Epp discusses the concept of 'a sin unto death' as described in 1 John 5:14-21, emphasizing that it refers to a deliberate and willful sin committed by a believer who knowingly persists in wrongdoing while presuming upon God's grace. He encourages prayer for those who may be in doubt about their spiritual state, as the outcome of such sin could lead to physical death rather than spiritual death. Epp highlights the importance of recognizing the new life within believers that urges them towards godly living, warning against the dangers of complacency in faith.
(Genesis) Genesis 28:16-22
By J. Vernon McGee2.7K05:13GEN 28:16J. Vernon McGee discusses Jacob's encounter with God at Bethel, emphasizing that Jacob initially believed he could run away from God, only to realize that God was present wherever he went. McGee highlights the dread Jacob felt in the presence of God, which reflects the reality of a sinner's confrontation with holiness. He critiques Jacob's attempt to bargain with God, illustrating that God's grace is not transactional and that true worship stems from love rather than obligation. Ultimately, McGee encourages believers to recognize God's mercy and to serve Him out of love, not as a business deal.
Oh, the Atrocity!
By C.H. Spurgeon0DAN 9:8ROM 3:23EPH 2:4C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the gravity of sin, particularly for those who have experienced God's grace and forgiveness. He reflects on the shame that accompanies our ungratefulness and lack of fruitfulness despite being favored by God. Spurgeon highlights the atrocity of sin committed by those who have been pardoned, noting that such sins are more heinous than those of the unrepentant. He calls believers to bow before God, recognizing their natural sinfulness and to worship Him for His grace, mercy, and love that saves and spares us from judgment.
Jesus Delights in Blessing His People
By David Wilkerson0MAT 5:3LUK 12:32David Wilkerson emphasizes that God delights in blessing His people rather than merely chastising them. He highlights that Jesus takes pleasure in giving us the kingdom and assures us of His desire to bless us abundantly. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus consistently pronounced blessings, from the Sermon on the Mount to His final words with His disciples. Wilkerson reminds us that God's blessings are not earned but are given out of His mercy and grace, encouraging believers to embrace their worthiness in Christ. Ultimately, the message is one of hope and assurance that God's heart is set on blessing us.
God Is God
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 50:21ISA 55:8REV 5:12A.W. Tozer emphasizes that God is sovereign and not subject to superstitions or the whims of evil spirits. He argues that viewing God as vindictive or reliant on human rituals diminishes His majesty and power. Instead, Tozer highlights that God's nature is holy and loving, demonstrated through the sacrifice of His Son for humanity's sins. This understanding of God should inspire gratitude and reverence, as He acts out of His own nature rather than human expectations. The redeemed will eternally praise Him for His grace and mercy.
In His Father's House
By G.W. North0JHN 8:7G.W. North preaches on the profound encounter between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery, illustrating how Jesus masterfully navigated the conflicting laws of Moses and Rome while embodying grace and mercy. He emphasizes that Jesus did not condemn the woman but instead offered her forgiveness and a call to a transformed life, highlighting the importance of believing in Him as the light of the world. North stresses that true discipleship requires a continuous commitment to follow Christ and abide in His word, which leads to freedom from sin and the promise of eternal life in the Father's house. The sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and actions in light of Jesus' teachings, urging them to embrace the light and truth He offers. Ultimately, it is a call to recognize the necessity of personal commitment to Christ for true freedom and discipleship.
The Mercy Seat
By Andrew Bonar1EXO 25:22LEV 17:11MAT 9:12MAT 26:28Andrew Bonar emphasizes the significance of the mercy-seat as the place where sinners can find atonement through the blood of Christ. He urges listeners to come to God as they are, burdened by sin, and to lay their sins upon the mercy-seat, where God's grace meets their need for salvation. Bonar reassures that the blood of Jesus is sufficient for immediate forgiveness and that no good works are required to earn acceptance; rather, faith in Christ's sacrifice is the only plea for salvation. He highlights that God is always ready to receive sinners, inviting them to approach Him with confidence in the atoning blood. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a heartfelt response to the mercy offered at the cross, emphasizing that now is the time to seek the Lord.
Crumbs for Dogs
By Phil Beach Jr.2054:41JOB 42:6MAT 11:6MAT 15:21JHN 2:24JHN 3:19Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the profound love of Jesus for His enemies, illustrating how we often resist acknowledging our own sins and shortcomings. He reflects on the story of the Canaanite woman, who humbly accepted her status as a 'dog' in need of mercy, demonstrating that true faith comes from recognizing our need for grace. Beach challenges the congregation to confront their pride and self-righteousness, urging them to embrace humility and seek forgiveness at the foot of the cross. He reminds us that human love can turn to hatred when our self-image is threatened, but Jesus calls us to love our enemies as He loves us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep, honest relationship with God, where we acknowledge our sins and accept His mercy.
There Is Therefore Now No Condemnation
By C.H. Spurgeon0JHN 3:18ROM 8:1EPH 2:8C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound truth that believers in Jesus are completely freed from guilt and condemnation, liberated from the bondage of sin and the law. He illustrates how Christ's sacrifice grants us direct access to God, removing the fear of punishment and allowing us to approach the Father with confidence. Spurgeon highlights that all the blessings and privileges of perfect obedience are now ours through Christ's righteousness, which is imputed to us. He calls for a deep sense of gratitude for the mercy and love we receive, reminding us that we owe everything to our Savior's grace. The message is a celebration of the believer's new identity and freedom in Christ.