Grace and Restoration
Grace and Restoration3
Child Friendship, How Durable
By D.L. Moody02SA 9:1D.L. Moody shares the story of David and Mephibosheth to illustrate the enduring nature of friendship and God's grace. He emphasizes how David, despite being pursued by Saul, honored his vow to Jonathan by showing kindness to Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son, who lived in the desolate place of Lo-debar. Moody draws parallels between Mephibosheth's fear of the king and the way sinners often perceive God, thinking He seeks to punish rather than restore. Ultimately, David's act of kindness symbolizes God's desire to bring us from our lowly state into His grace and abundance. The sermon encourages listeners to accept God's invitation to come to Him and reclaim their inheritance.
Decline and Its Antidote
By John Nelson Darby0JHN 15:5ROM 8:12CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 2:8PHP 3:8COL 3:11PE 5:71JN 1:3REV 2:4John Nelson Darby emphasizes the danger of spiritual decline when believers become distracted by worldly motives, losing their initial fervor for Christ. He warns that the inquiry into the harm of certain actions indicates a departure from being absorbed in heavenly matters, leading to a diminished sense of grace. Darby asserts that true restoration comes not from legalism but from a renewed understanding of grace, which fosters genuine practice and holy living. He highlights the importance of maintaining a spirit of confidence and gentleness, rooted in fellowship with God, which allows believers to navigate life's challenges with peace and joy. Ultimately, abiding in Christ leads to a life marked by quietness, confidence, and a focus on eternal truths.
For I Will Declare Mine Iniquity
By Octavius Winslow0PSA 38:18PSA 51:17ISA 57:15MAT 5:4LUK 15:20ROM 5:82CO 7:10HEB 4:16JAS 4:101JN 1:7Octavius Winslow emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a broken heart for sin throughout the Christian journey, illustrating that godly sorrow is not a one-time experience but a continual state of humility and contrition. He encourages believers to recognize the pervasive nature of sin and the importance of returning to the atoning blood of Jesus for cleansing and restoration. Winslow reassures backsliding Christians that through sincere repentance and a longing for communion with God, they can find acceptance and joy in His presence once again. The sermon highlights the transformative power of acknowledging one's iniquities and the grace available through Christ's sacrifice.