Hope in Suffering
Hope in Suffering11
All the Hell That You Shall Ever Have!
By Thomas Brooks0LUK 16:19ROM 8:182CO 4:17REV 21:4Thomas Brooks emphasizes that the trials and tribulations faced by Christians in this life are merely a foretaste of hell, while the true joy and peace of heaven await them after death. He contrasts the experiences of Lazarus and Dives, illustrating that earthly suffering leads to eternal reward, while earthly pleasure can lead to eternal suffering. Brooks encourages believers to endure their current hardships with the hope that their future is filled with joy and comfort, as death will ultimately end their struggles and usher them into everlasting happiness.
I Know That My Redeemer Liveth.
By F.B. Meyer0JOB 19:25HEB 7:24F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound assurance found in the declaration 'I know that my Redeemer liveth,' reflecting the unwavering faith of believers in the living Christ who triumphs over death and suffering. He explains that Job's understanding of 'Redeemer' as a kinsman avenger signifies hope and vindication amidst trials, as Job anticipated a divine figure who would ultimately restore justice and reveal the purpose behind his suffering. Meyer reassures that, like Job, believers can trust in their Redeemer's presence and power to transform pain into peace and light.
The Glory to Come
By Horatius Bonar0ROM 8:18ROM 9:232CO 4:17COL 3:41TH 2:12HEB 2:101PE 1:81PE 4:131PE 5:10REV 21:11Horatius Bonar emphasizes that a person's true life and history begin at conversion, marking the transition from a life without a story to one filled with divine significance. He illustrates this transformation using the metaphor of a drop of water separating from the ocean, gaining individuality and a unique narrative that is recorded in heaven. Bonar reassures believers that while their earthly journey may be filled with suffering, it ultimately leads to a glorious future, where they will share in the glory of God. He encourages the faithful to look beyond their present trials, reminding them that their hope lies in the eternal glory that awaits them, which far surpasses any earthly affliction. The sermon concludes with a call to rejoice in the promise of glory, which is both a present reality and a future inheritance.
The Inner and the Outer Life
By J.R. Miller0PSA 73:26ISA 40:31JHN 14:2ROM 8:181CO 15:532CO 4:162CO 5:1PHP 1:21COL 3:32TI 4:7J.R. Miller emphasizes the distinction between our inner and outer lives, asserting that while our physical bodies may decay, our inner selves can be renewed daily through faith in Christ. He illustrates that true strength and vitality come from the spirit, which remains unaffected by physical ailments or aging. Miller encourages believers to find hope and beauty in their inner lives, especially during times of suffering or old age, reminding them that their ultimate home is in heaven. He concludes that the challenges of life should not diminish our joy or purpose, but rather enhance our spiritual growth and connection with God.
Introducing Lament in Psalm 13
By Michael Flowers36527:21PSA 13:1Michael Flowers introduces the concept of lament as expressed in Psalm 13, emphasizing its significance in the Psalter as a heartfelt response to grief and sorrow. He explains that lament is not mere grumbling but a covenantal communication with God, allowing believers to express their pain while ultimately finding hope and trust in God's steadfast love. Flowers highlights the structure of lament, which includes an expression of pain, a petition for help, and a movement towards thanksgiving and reorientation in faith. He encourages the congregation to embrace lament as a vital part of their spiritual journey, reminding them that even in despair, there is a pathway to joy through faith in God. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the importance of lament in worship and personal prayer.
Holy Foresight
By C.H. Spurgeon0ISA 40:31MAT 26:64JHN 16:33ROM 8:182CO 4:17PHP 3:202TI 4:8HEB 12:21PE 5:10REV 21:4C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the concept of 'Holy Foresight,' encouraging believers to look beyond their current struggles and tribulations to the future glory that awaits them in Christ. He reflects on how Jesus, despite His humiliation, maintained a vision of His ultimate exaltation, urging us to adopt a similar perspective in our own lives. Spurgeon calls for courage in the face of adversity, reminding us that our present sufferings are temporary and that we should focus on the promise of future triumph. He encourages believers to find strength in the assurance of being with Christ and witnessing His glory, proclaiming, 'Nevertheless - hereafter.'
Rev. 6:10-11. the Recompense of Martyrdom
By Horatius Bonar0REV 6:10Horatius Bonar preaches on Revelation 6:10-11, emphasizing the cry of the martyrs for justice and the assurance of their honor and rest in Christ. He explains that while earthly rulers may persecute the Church, they are ultimately accountable to Christ, who is the true Judge and King. The martyrs, depicted as receiving white robes, symbolize the honor and eternal joy that await those who suffer for their faith. Bonar encourages believers to hold onto the hope of future glory and to live in a manner worthy of their calling, despite the trials they may face. The sermon calls for a recognition of Christ's supremacy over all nations and the importance of perseverance in faith.
Praise God for His Tender Mercies
By David Wilkerson0PSA 40:12PSA 40:16JER 29:11David Wilkerson delivers a heartfelt message to those enduring deep sorrow and overwhelming situations, emphasizing that God is aware of their pain and is actively thinking of them. He draws from Psalms 40, where David expresses his anguish yet finds comfort in knowing that the Lord cares for him. Wilkerson reassures listeners that even in their darkest moments, God has thoughts of peace and hope for their future, as illustrated in Jeremiah 29:11. He encourages the afflicted to seek God earnestly in prayer, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, compassion, and the assurance of God's tender mercies in times of distress.
O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go
By George Matheson0ROM 8:38George Matheson reflects on the profound love of God that sustains and uplifts us, even in our darkest moments. He shares the personal pain he experienced while alone during his sister's wedding, which inspired the creation of his hymn 'O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go.' Matheson emphasizes the themes of surrender, hope, and the transformative power of divine love, illustrating how God's light and joy can penetrate our suffering and lead us to a brighter future. The hymn serves as a testament to the unwavering love of God that never lets us go, even when we feel lost or burdened.
Psalms Chapter 5 the Suffering Savior -- Psalm 22
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 22:1PSA 23:1ISA 53:5MAT 27:46JHN 10:11ROM 5:8PHP 2:10HEB 2:91PE 3:18REV 7:9A.B. Simpson presents a profound exploration of Psalm 22, depicting the suffering Savior as He endures abandonment, cruelty, and the weight of sin on the cross. He emphasizes Christ's anguish, feeling the Father's desertion and the mockery of men, while also battling the forces of darkness. Despite the depths of His suffering, the sermon highlights the silver lining of hope, faith, and love that permeates the psalm, showcasing Christ's innocence and His ultimate victory over death. Simpson calls believers to reflect on the Savior's sacrifice and to share the message of redemption with the world, embodying the spirit of missions and service.
The Death of Christ
By J.C. Ryle0MRK 15:33J.C. Ryle emphasizes the profound significance of Christ's death, marking it as the moment when atonement for sin was completed and access to God was granted to all believers. He highlights the miraculous events surrounding the crucifixion, such as the darkness that symbolized the gravity of sin and the tearing of the temple veil, which signified the end of the ceremonial law and the opening of a direct relationship with God. Ryle reflects on Jesus' cry of abandonment, illustrating the depth of His suffering and the reality of being forsaken by God, yet still being His beloved Son. He encourages believers who feel forsaken to remember that such feelings do not equate to being cast off forever, urging them to maintain hope and trust in God. The sermon serves as a reminder of the depth of Christ's sacrifice and the assurance of God's love even in times of spiritual darkness.