Living Epistles
Living Epistles3
The 'Parchment', the 'Pen', and the Purpose
By T. Austin-Sparks0ROM 8:291CO 2:142CO 3:32CO 3:18GAL 4:19EPH 1:18EPH 4:10COL 1:27T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is actively writing the life of Christ within believers, transforming them into living epistles that reflect Jesus' character and experiences. He explains that this inner transformation requires being born again, as only the spiritual man can receive and understand the workings of the Holy Spirit. The sermon highlights that the experiences of believers are opportunities for the Holy Spirit to teach them about Christ, and that true knowledge comes from the heart rather than mere intellectual understanding. Ultimately, the goal is for believers to embody the testimony of Jesus, living out His life through their own. Sparks encourages the congregation to recognize their role as 'People of the Way', following the path of Christ in their daily lives.
Ye Are Our Epistle (Part 1)
By Smith Wigglesworth02CO 3:1Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes that believers are living epistles of Christ, written not with ink but by the Spirit of God on the hearts of men. He explains that true understanding of God's Word comes through the Spirit, which brings life and transformation, contrasting the old covenant of the letter that kills with the new covenant of the Spirit that gives life. Wigglesworth encourages the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with God, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and reveal divine truths, leading to a life of faith and trust in God's sufficiency rather than self-reliance.
Ii Corinthians 3 (Are You a Living Epistle?)
By Hans R. Waldvogel02CO 3:2Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the significance of being a living epistle, reflecting Christ's glory in our lives. He challenges believers to purge themselves of worldly influences and to allow the Holy Spirit to transform them into vessels of honor, capable of demonstrating love, joy, and peace even in difficult circumstances. Waldvogel highlights the necessity of Holy Spirit-led gatherings where believers can encounter God's presence and be changed from glory to glory. He encourages self-examination to ensure that Christ is truly Lord in our lives, urging the congregation to meditate on the Word and behold God's glory to become effective witnesses of His love.