Human Responsibility
Human Responsibility5
The Two Natures
By A.W. Pink0PSA 51:4JHN 3:6JHN 3:8ROM 3:20GAL 5:17EPH 5:26TIT 3:5HEB 2:171PE 1:231JN 3:9A.W. Pink explores the concept of the two natures within a believer, emphasizing that every Christian possesses both a fallen nature inherited from Adam and a new nature born of the Spirit. He clarifies that while the Fall did not destroy any part of man's being, it corrupted it, leading to a struggle between good and evil within. Pink warns against misconceptions regarding human responsibility, asserting that individuals are accountable for their actions regardless of their natures. He highlights the importance of recognizing that the person, not the nature, is responsible for sin, and encourages believers to nurture their spiritual nature while resisting the flesh. Ultimately, Pink calls for a clear understanding of these two natures to avoid confusion and to live a life that honors God.
The Parable of the Sower
By A.W. Pink0MAT 13:3A.W. Pink expounds on 'The Parable of the Sower,' emphasizing the significance of the sower's actions and the varied responses of the soils to the seed. He highlights that the parable serves as an introduction to the work of Christ and the challenges the Gospel will face among different types of hearers. Pink categorizes the hearers into four groups: hard-hearted, shallow-hearted, thorny-hearted, and whole-hearted, illustrating the human responsibility in receiving the Word. He warns against the false optimism of expecting universal acceptance of the Gospel, noting that only a fraction will yield fruit. The sermon concludes with practical lessons on valuing the Word, recognizing the inconspicuousness of the sower, and the conditions necessary for spiritual fruitfulness.
Concerning Human Responsibility
By G. Campbell Morgan0MAT 4:17JHN 6:29JHN 7:17JHN 18:37JHN 20:28G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the critical nature of human responsibility in relation to Jesus' teachings, particularly focusing on the need for repentance, belief, and obedience. He outlines Jesus' threefold method of teaching: annunciation, application, and appeal, which calls individuals to recognize their need for God's Kingdom and to act upon the truth revealed in Christ. Morgan highlights that true belief is not merely intellectual assent but a volitional act of trust in Jesus as the Savior. He stresses that repentance is the first step towards aligning oneself with God's will, followed by faith in Christ and obedience to His teachings. Ultimately, Morgan calls for a transformative response to Jesus' message, urging listeners to test His words through their actions.
Workers Used of God
By A.W. Tozer0GEN 2:15PRO 6:11JHN 5:17PHP 2:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes that while God works through His people, it is ultimately God who accomplishes His work. He references Jesus' declaration of continuous work alongside the Father and Paul's affirmation of God's active role in believers' lives. Tozer clarifies that this does not negate the necessity of human effort, as the Bible illustrates God's intention for His people to engage in work, starting from Adam in the Garden of Eden to Jesus' choice of active disciples. He warns against laziness, highlighting the consequences of idleness as noted in Proverbs.
The Ark of the Covenant
By George Warnock0EXO 25:10George Warnock emphasizes the significance of the Ark of the Covenant and the mercy seat as God's dwelling place, illustrating how God initiates a relationship with humanity from His own nature rather than from human effort. He discusses the complexities of divine sovereignty and human responsibility, urging believers to recognize that their calling and election are rooted in God's foreknowledge and predestination. Warnock highlights the importance of not presuming one's election but rather diligently seeking to follow God's voice, as true faithfulness is demonstrated through obedience. He reassures that God's plan is consistent with His justice and love, encouraging believers to embrace the truth of their identity in Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of God's creative call and the assurance of glorification in Him.