Intimacy with Christ
Intimacy with Christ21
Let Him Kiss Me With the Kisses of His Mouth
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 42:1SNG 1:2JHN 15:15ROM 5:8EPH 1:6C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the deep longing for communion with Christ, drawing parallels between the passionate love of the elect spouse and the believer's desire for closeness with Jesus. He highlights the boldness of love that seeks intimate expressions of affection, such as the kisses of reconciliation, acceptance, and daily communion. Spurgeon encourages believers to approach Christ without fear, seeking the rich manifestations of His love that bring joy and fulfillment. He illustrates that while faith is essential, it is the intimate fellowship with Jesus that provides true rest and satisfaction for the soul. The sermon calls for a heartfelt request for deeper connection with the Savior, inviting His blessings into our lives.
Face to Face
By Michael Koulianos431:06:23EXO 33:7Michael Koulianos emphasizes the importance of seeking a personal relationship with Jesus, drawing from the example of Moses who met God face to face. He encourages believers to prioritize intimacy with Christ over ministry success, asserting that true power and glory come from being in His presence. Koulianos warns against the distractions of church culture that can lead to a loss of first love for Jesus, urging the congregation to return to their earliest experiences of His love and presence. He calls for a deep yearning for Christ, reminding that the essence of ministry is to lead others to Him, not merely to perform tasks. Ultimately, he invites everyone to come back to Jesus, the true source of life and fulfillment.
Intimate Communion With Christ
By F.B. Meyer0PHP 3:8F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound intimacy that believers can have with Christ, portraying Him not as a distant figure but as a constant companion who knows us intimately. He highlights that true knowledge of Christ comes through the Holy Spirit, allowing us to experience His presence in both joyful and challenging times. Meyer encourages believers to seek a deep, personal relationship with Christ, understanding that every experience, whether in sorrow or joy, reveals different facets of His glory. He stresses the importance of valuing this relationship above all else, as knowing Christ surpasses all worldly gains and leads to true righteousness through faith.
Introducing the Bridegroom God in the Nt
By Mike Bickle5558:46ISA 54:5JER 31:32EZK 16:8HOS 2:19JOL 2:28MAL 4:5MAT 11:11LUK 1:17JHN 3:29REV 19:7Mike Bickle introduces the concept of the Bridegroom God in the New Testament, emphasizing John the Baptist's declaration of Jesus as the Bridegroom and the implications of this revelation for believers. He explains how John viewed his role as a friend of the Bridegroom, focusing on preparing others to receive the love of Christ. Bickle highlights the importance of understanding God as a passionate lover, which transforms our identity and purpose. He encourages believers to pursue intimacy with God, which leads to a deeper understanding of their own worth and calling. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a generation to embrace the Bridegroom revelation and live as forerunners in preparation for Christ's return.
My Sister, My Spouse
By C.H. Spurgeon0SNG 4:9EPH 5:25C.H. Spurgeon beautifully illustrates the intimate relationship between Christ and the Church, referring to her as 'My sister, My spouse.' He emphasizes the deep affection and connection Christ has with His Church, highlighting the dual nature of their relationship—both as family and as a beloved. Spurgeon reassures believers that they are cherished by Christ, who has a profound commitment to them, having chosen and loved them from the beginning. He encourages the faithful to respond to this love with their own devotion, recognizing the sacred bond they share with their Lord. Ultimately, the message is one of comfort and assurance in the unwavering love of Christ for His Church.
Song of Solomon - the Journey of Love
By Phil Beach Jr.331:09:17PSA 139:14SNG 1:2MAL 4:2MAT 11:28LUK 5:8JHN 17:6ROM 7:182CO 5:211JN 4:19REV 2:4Phil Beach Jr. shares a profound message on the 'Song of Solomon,' emphasizing the deep, romantic love that God has for His people. He illustrates how understanding this love can heal our insecurities and fears, allowing us to embrace our identity as beloved children of God. Through a vision of a high school sweetheart, he conveys the importance of being secure in Christ's love, which liberates us from the opinions of others. The sermon calls for a return to our first love, urging believers to seek intimacy with Christ rather than mere service. Ultimately, Beach encourages the congregation to experience the unspeakable love of Jesus, which transforms and empowers us.
Where Thou Makest Thy Flock to Rest at Noon
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 91:1MAT 11:28A.B. Simpson speaks about the deep longing for God's peace and presence, emphasizing the desire for rest in the midst of life's struggles and the assurance that in Christ, all questions are answered and every need is met. He invites believers to seek the intimate relationship with God, where they can find solace and exclusive love, akin to lying close to His heart. Simpson illustrates that while God's love is personal and intimate, it is also vast enough to encompass all who seek Him, much like the sun reflected in countless pools of water, each appearing to hold the sun entirely.
Angelic Assistance and Gazing Upon the Son
By Brian Guerin737:58LUK 22:43ACT 12:7HEB 1:14Brian Guerin shares a powerful sermon on the significance of angelic assistance and the importance of gazing upon Jesus, the Son. He recounts a transformative experience in India where he witnessed the power of God in delivering a young girl from demonic possession, emphasizing the reality of spiritual warfare and the role of angels in ministering to believers. Guerin encourages the congregation to cultivate intimacy with Christ, as this connection opens the heavens and allows for angelic intervention in their lives. He highlights the necessity of seeking God diligently and the profound impact of prayer and stillness in the presence of the Lord. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with Jesus, which leads to empowerment and freedom in the believer's life.
The Disciple Whom Jesus Loved
By J.R. Miller0PSA 91:1ISA 41:10MAT 11:28JHN 13:23JHN 15:16ROM 8:38PHP 4:61PE 5:71JN 4:19REV 21:4J.R. Miller reflects on the profound intimacy between Jesus and John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, emphasizing the importance of resting in Christ's love rather than relying on our own efforts. He illustrates how true faith involves leaning on Jesus' bosom, symbolizing trust and surrender during life's trials and uncertainties. Miller encourages believers to find peace and security in Christ's love, especially in dark times, and highlights that it is Christ's love for us that transforms our character and brings us closer to Him. He concludes by reminding us that there is always room in Christ's bosom for all who seek refuge and comfort.
Our Unshakable Bridegroom
By Brian Guerin333:03PHP 3:8Brian Guerin emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus as our unshakable Bridegroom, encouraging the congregation to deepen their relationship with Him amidst life's pressures. He shares personal experiences of miraculous healings and the necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit, urging believers to raise their expectancy for divine encounters. Guerin highlights the parable of the ten bridesmaids, illustrating that true intimacy with Christ is essential, especially in challenging times. He calls for a return to first love, where knowing Jesus becomes the priority above all else, and invites those seeking a deeper connection to step forward for prayer.
Grace of God ("Far as the Curse Is Found")
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Hans Waldvogel emphasizes that salvation is entirely by God’s grace, not human merit, and can only be received through brokenness, confession, and intimate union with Jesus Christ. He pleads for believers to forsake self-righteousness, return to their first love, and walk daily in the cleansing and healing light of Christ’s presence. Using vivid imagery and heartfelt exhortation, he portrays Jesus as the Sun of Righteousness who alone transforms the soul from darkness to glory.
He Is Thy Lord ("Worship Thou Him"¦ So Shall the King Greatly Desire Thy beauty.")
By Hans R. Waldvogel0PSA 45:11PSA 73:25SNG 2:9LUK 6:46Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the deep, personal relationship believers can have with Jesus, portraying Him as the beloved Bridegroom who desires a heart ablaze with love and worship. He challenges the congregation to move beyond mere words and rituals, urging them to truly know and experience Jesus as their Lord. Waldvogel highlights the importance of surrendering one's will to God, recognizing that true worship involves a complete submission to His authority. He calls for a genuine awakening to the beauty of Christ, encouraging believers to seek Him above all earthly things. Ultimately, the sermon invites listeners to embrace a life of devotion and intimacy with their Savior.
First Love - John 14:23
By Hans R. Waldvogel0PSA 73:25MAT 22:37JHN 14:23ROM 5:81CO 16:22EPH 2:4JAS 4:81JN 2:151JN 4:19REV 3:20Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the profound love that Jesus has for us and the importance of reciprocating that love by keeping His words. He highlights that true love for Christ is not merely about zeal but a deep, heartfelt commitment that transforms our lives and draws us into intimate fellowship with Him. Waldvogel urges believers to recognize the significance of loving Jesus with all their heart, as this love is foundational to our relationship with God and our eternal destiny. He warns against the dangers of allowing our love to grow cold and encourages a passionate pursuit of Christ, who desires to dwell within us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a return to our 'first love' for Jesus, reminding us that He longs for our hearts above all else.
A Glimpse Into the Heart of Jesus
By David Wilkerson0PSA 37:4ISA 41:10JER 29:13MAT 11:28LUK 17:7LUK 24:15LUK 24:27JHN 15:15PHP 4:19REV 3:20David Wilkerson explores the profound relationship between Jesus and His followers, emphasizing that while we find joy in serving the Lord, we often overlook His desire to minister to us in return. He highlights the importance of allowing Jesus to share in our lives and communicate with us, as seen in the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. Wilkerson suggests that Jesus experiences joy and fulfillment when He engages in personal communion with us, revealing His longing for connection. The sermon encourages believers to recognize that their relationship with Christ is reciprocal, where both serve and are served. Ultimately, it calls for a deeper understanding of Jesus' heart and His need for intimate fellowship with His people.
Christ's Friendship: Its Intimacy
By Andrew Murray0PSA 25:14PRO 3:32JHN 14:21JHN 15:15JHN 16:131CO 2:9GAL 5:22EPH 3:12PHP 3:10JAS 2:23Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound intimacy of Christ's friendship, highlighting that Jesus no longer calls His followers servants but friends, sharing with them the secrets of the Father. This friendship is characterized by a deep spiritual understanding and the privilege of being included in God's plans, which is made possible through the Holy Spirit. Murray explains that true friendship with Christ involves loving obedience, which purifies the soul and opens the door to closer fellowship with Him. The sermon invites believers to recognize the honor of being called friends by Christ and to seek a deeper relationship with Him through obedience and trust.
Psalm 23 Series (Session 2)
By Joseph Carroll1940:51PSA 23:1Joseph Carroll emphasizes that Psalm 23 represents the ultimate experience of being led by God for a believer, guiding them to a deeper relationship with the Lord. He explains that the psalm's present tense verbs signify that God is actively working in our lives now, urging believers to become Christ-conscious rather than self-conscious. Carroll illustrates this through the life of Hudson Taylor, who exemplified faith and dependence on God while pioneering missions in China. The sermon highlights the importance of surrendering to God, waiting on Him, and recognizing our need for the Shepherd in every aspect of life. Ultimately, it calls for believers to seek intimacy with Christ, which leads to true satisfaction and fulfillment.
The Joy of Being Filled With the Spirit
By Andrew Murray0ACT 2:1Andrew Murray emphasizes the transformative joy of being filled with the Holy Spirit, illustrated by the dramatic change in the disciples at Pentecost. He reflects on the longing for a closer relationship with Jesus, who desires to dwell within believers and provide them with His life. Murray urges believers to yield themselves to the Holy Spirit, allowing Jesus to take full possession of their hearts and experience His constant presence. He reassures that Jesus delights in intimate fellowship with each believer, encouraging them to seek this divine filling.
Increase Our Faith
By David Wilkerson0MRK 4:40LUK 17:5LUK 17:8David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of truly knowing Jesus, as illustrated by the disciples' fear during the storm despite their close relationship with Him. He points out that many Christians today, like the disciples, may serve alongside Jesus but lack an intimate understanding of who He is. Wilkerson encourages believers to seek a deeper communion with Christ, highlighting that increased faith comes from spending time in His presence and learning from Him. He references the disciples' request for increased faith and Jesus' response, which calls for patience and a willingness to serve and commune with Him. Ultimately, the sermon challenges Christians to move beyond mere service to a genuine relationship with their Master.
The First Love
By Andrew Murray0REV 2:4Andrew Murray emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining a personal and fervent love for Christ, as highlighted in Revelation 2:4, where the Church of Ephesus is admonished for leaving its first love. Despite their zeal and good works, the absence of a deep, personal relationship with Jesus renders their efforts meaningless in His eyes. Murray calls for a return to this intimate fellowship, stressing that true Christian life and service must stem from a heart filled with love for Christ. He warns that many in ministry may be active yet spiritually deficient due to neglecting this vital connection. The message urges believers to prioritize their love for Jesus above all else in their daily lives.
That I Might Know Him - Part 2
By Peter Brandon6552:15PHP 3:7Peter Brandon emphasizes the profound difference between knowing about Christ and knowing Him personally and experientially. He draws from Philippians 3:7-14, illustrating how the Apostle Paul counted all his gains as loss for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ, highlighting the cost of discipleship and the necessity of suffering to truly understand the power of His resurrection. Brandon challenges the congregation to reflect on their own relationship with Christ, urging them to seek an intimate and transformative knowledge of Him rather than mere intellectual understanding. He encourages believers to embrace the losses that come with following Christ, as they lead to a deeper fellowship with Him and a greater understanding of His glory. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to live out the reality of Christ in their lives, pressing toward the heavenly prize.
The Disciple Whom Jesus Loved . . . Leaned on His Breast
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 16:11PSA 23:4MAT 28:20JHN 14:23JHN 15:15ROM 8:38PHP 4:71TH 5:17HEB 13:5JAS 4:8A.B. Simpson reflects on the profound intimacy and continuous communion with Jesus, illustrated by the story of Albert Bengel, who maintained a deep connection with the Lord even in silence and sleep. This relationship is characterized by a ceaseless presence, akin to the fragrance of a garden or the comforting company of a loved one. Simpson emphasizes that true fellowship with Jesus brings unparalleled joy and fulfillment to life, highlighting the grace of having Jesus always by our side.