Heart Preparation
Heart Preparation4
Heart Preparation Necessary
By E.M. Bounds01SA 16:7PSA 51:10PRO 4:23MAT 12:34LUK 6:45ROM 10:10EPH 3:16COL 3:162TI 2:15JAS 4:8E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of heart preparation for effective preaching, arguing that a sermon infused with intellect alone lacks the power to reach the hearts of listeners. He highlights the importance of prayer in transforming the preacher's heart, asserting that true preaching comes from a heart that has been cultivated through prayer and holiness. Bounds critiques the overemphasis on sermon mechanics at the expense of spiritual depth, warning that a prepared heart is far more crucial than a polished sermon. He calls for preachers to prioritize their spiritual condition, as the effectiveness of their message hinges on the purity and depth of their hearts. Ultimately, Bounds asserts that the preacher's heart is the fountain from which the power of the gospel flows.
He Did Evil, Because He Prepared Not His Heart
By F.B. Meyer02CH 12:14PSA 51:10PSA 57:7JAS 1:14F.B. Meyer emphasizes the necessity of preparing one's heart to seek the Lord, as illustrated in 2 Chronicles 12:14. He warns that without a fixed determination to follow God's will, individuals are vulnerable to temptation and sin. Meyer highlights the importance of a whole-hearted commitment to God, urging believers to be vigilant and to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance for steadfastness. He draws parallels to David's prayer for a renewed spirit, underscoring that true preparation comes from divine assistance. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a resolute heart that is unwavering in its pursuit of righteousness.
The Good Lord Pardon Every One That Prepareth
By F.B. Meyer02CH 30:18F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of heart preparation in seeking God, as illustrated by the people who participated in the Passover without proper ceremonial cleansing. Despite their ignorance of the temple rites, their sincere desire to connect with God was acknowledged, highlighting that God forgives those who seek Him earnestly, even in their lack of knowledge. Meyer draws parallels to Jesus' intercession for those who sin out of ignorance, reminding us that sincere hearts are what truly matter in our relationship with God. He encourages believers to focus on seeking God rather than being hindered by rituals or misunderstandings. Ultimately, the message is one of grace and the accessibility of God to all who earnestly seek Him.
True Revival
By Peter Brandon1357:341SA 7:3Peter Brandon emphasizes the need for true revival, urging believers to lament after the Lord and prepare their hearts for genuine worship. He discusses the importance of removing idols from our lives, such as materialism and distractions, and highlights the necessity of heartfelt repentance and prayer. Brandon illustrates how true revival begins with humility and dependence on God, using the example of the Israelites who turned back to the Lord and experienced His deliverance. He calls for a return to the power of God in the church, reminding listeners that revival is marked by a deep hunger for God's presence and a commitment to serve Him wholeheartedly.