Inner Purity
Inner Purity4
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 68
By Zac Poonen68325:51MAT 23:26LUK 14:26Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of inner purity over outward appearances in his sermon on Matthew 23:26, where Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their hypocrisy. He explains that true discipleship requires a strong inner foundation, akin to a building's foundation, which must be prioritized over external displays of righteousness. Poonen warns against the dangers of deception in the last days, urging believers to love the truth and seek salvation from sin rather than merely adhering to the law. He highlights the tragic fate of those who reject God's prophets and the consequences of a desolate spiritual state. Ultimately, he calls for a genuine transformation from within to ensure that the outside reflects the inner purity of one's life.
V. Purifying the Heart Within
By John Sung0MRK 7:1John Sung emphasizes the necessity of purifying the heart rather than focusing on outward appearances, as demonstrated in Mark 7. He critiques the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, highlighting that true defilement comes from within, not from external actions. Sung urges believers to seek inner transformation through repentance and the filling of the Holy Spirit, rather than adhering to mere traditions and rituals. He illustrates that many who appear righteous may be spiritually dead inside, and true light comes from a heart cleansed by God. Ultimately, he calls for a genuine relationship with Christ that leads to authentic witness and transformation.
The Tenth Commandment
By A.W. Pink0EXO 20:17JAS 1:14A.W. Pink expounds on the Tenth Commandment, emphasizing that it forbids not only the outward act of coveting but also the internal desires and inclinations of the heart. He explains that concupiscence, or unlawful lusting, is the root of sin, and that God’s law extends to our thoughts and imaginations, holding us accountable for our inner life. Pink highlights the importance of recognizing these hidden sins, as they lead to overt actions, and stresses that true obedience to God involves purity of heart. He concludes that the Tenth Commandment serves as a guard for the other commandments, revealing our sinful nature and pointing us to the grace found in Christ. Ultimately, it calls believers to seek cleansing from secret faults and to rely on God's grace for true transformation.
An Angel on the Outside—and a Devil Within
By Thomas Brooks0MAT 23:25Thomas Brooks addresses the issue of hypocrisy in his sermon, emphasizing the stark contrast between a hypocrite's outward appearance and their inner reality. He illustrates that while hypocrites may present a facade of righteousness, their hearts are filled with greed, malice, and wickedness, akin to beautiful temples hiding venomous creatures. Brooks warns that such duplicity is a grave sin, as it leads to spiritual death and condemnation, urging listeners to examine their true selves rather than merely their outward actions.