Heavenly Perspective
Heavenly Perspective4
The Body of Christ: Its Heavenly Aspect
By T. Austin-Sparks0EPH 1:22T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the corporate nature of the Church as the Body of Christ, drawing from the letter to the Ephesians. He highlights that despite earthly divisions and schisms, the Church remains one and united in Christ, as it is a heavenly reality unaffected by human differences. Sparks encourages believers to recognize their heavenly position in Christ to fully appreciate this unity and to overcome the divisions that may arise in their relationships. He asserts that the essence of the Body of Christ is a settled fact, and our task is to apprehend this truth rather than create it. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a shift in perspective from earthly to heavenly to understand the true nature of the Church.
Living "In the Heavenlies"
By T. Austin-Sparks0T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transformative shift from earthly to heavenly perspectives in the book of Ephesians, illustrating how true spiritual enlargement occurs when believers sever ties with earthly values and embrace the preeminence of spiritual values found in Christ. He contrasts the carnal and religious earthbound perspectives of Corinthians and Galatians with the elevated spiritual realm of Ephesians, where the focus is on knowing Christ in a spiritual way. Sparks highlights that spiritual value, rather than earthly success or numbers, is what truly matters to God, urging believers to meet one another on the ground of Christ, the 'one new man.' He concludes that spiritual enlargement is achieved by prioritizing spiritual realities over earthly concerns, leading to deeper fellowship and unity among believers.
And Hath Raised Us Up Together
By A.B. Simpson0JHN 14:2EPH 2:6PHP 3:20COL 3:1HEB 12:2A.B. Simpson emphasizes that ascension is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, distinct from resurrection, as it signifies Christ's exaltation and His blessing upon His disciples. He encourages believers to seek a heavenly perspective in their daily lives, urging them to view their circumstances through God's eyes, which empowers them to overcome sin, trials, and fears. By recognizing their spiritual position in Christ, seated in heavenly places, they can rise above worldly concerns and live in fellowship with His ascension. This perspective not only transforms their current struggles but also prepares them for eternal glory.
Its Heavenly Aspect
By T. Austin-Sparks0EPH 1:22T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the heavenly aspect of the Church as the Body of Christ, highlighting its corporate nature as described in the letter to the Ephesians. He explains that despite earthly divisions and schisms, the Church remains one and united in Christ, as it is fundamentally a spiritual reality that transcends human differences. Sparks encourages believers to recognize their heavenly position in Christ to fully appreciate this unity and to overcome the visible separations that exist among Christians. He asserts that our disagreements do not sever our connection to the Body of Christ, and that true fellowship is found in acknowledging our shared identity in Him. Ultimately, the message calls for a deeper understanding of the Church's oneness and the importance of viewing it from a heavenly perspective.