Living in Christ
Living in Christ18
Whole Life Prayer
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 15:5JHN 15:7PHP 4:6A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true prayer is an expression of our entire life, asserting that the effectiveness of our prayers is directly linked to how we live. He reflects on the regret many feel when they realize their prayer life is not as natural as it should be, especially in times of stress. Tozer encourages believers to cultivate a lifestyle of purity and love through Christ, which transforms individual prayers into powerful expressions of faith. He highlights that the moral power available through redemption enables us to live in a way that makes our whole life a prayer. Ultimately, Tozer calls for reliance on God's enabling power to live a life that naturally flows into prayer.
Real Christianity
By A.W. Pink0ROM 8:29HEB 12:1A.W. Pink emphasizes that true Christianity is rare in today's world, defined by a life conformed to the image of Christ. He stresses the importance of constantly looking to Jesus for strength and guidance, living in communion with Him, and drawing from His fullness. Genuine faith is characterized by a steadfast perseverance in the race of life, with Christ as the source of power. Pink highlights that to live authentically as a Christian means to have Christ living in and through us, embodying the essence of faith as expressed in Philippians and Galatians.
The Christian Life: A Sheer Impossib Ility!
By Major Ian Thomas0MAT 5:16JHN 15:5ROM 12:12CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:8PHP 4:13COL 1:272PE 1:31JN 4:4Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that living the Christian life is impossible without Christ, as true Christian living cannot be explained by human attributes or efforts. He argues that if one's life can be explained by personal qualities rather than the transformative power of Jesus, then it lacks the remarkable essence that should attract others to Christ. The Christian life should be so distinct that it leaves others baffled, showcasing the divine nature of God working within us. Ultimately, it is essential for others to see that the life we live is a direct reflection of Christ's presence in us.
Epistle 357
By George Fox0GEN 1:27PHP 2:10George Fox emphasizes the necessity for true Christians to live in the power, spirit, grace, and truth of God, contrasting this with the life of Adam before the fall and those who claim to be Christians yet do not hear God's voice. He asserts that to embody the life of the saints, one must bow to Jesus, acknowledging His authority and the sacrifice He made on the cross for humanity's sins. Fox highlights that true faith requires a transformation that leads believers out of darkness and into the everlasting light and life provided by Christ. He calls for a complete submission to Jesus, the foundation of faith, from whom all grace and truth flow. Ultimately, he stresses that all actions must be done in the name of Jesus, leading to the glory of God the Father.
Colossians Chapter 1 Christ in Colossians
By A.B. Simpson0A.B. Simpson emphasizes the supremacy of Christ in all aspects of life as depicted in Colossians, asserting that Christ is central to the Trinity, creation, providence, truth, redemption, and the life of believers. He illustrates how Christ embodies the fullness of God and is the source of wisdom and knowledge, urging believers to set their affections on heavenly things rather than earthly distractions. Simpson uses the analogy of an artist who strives to capture the true essence of Christ, highlighting the importance of living a life that reflects His glory and character. He concludes with the hope that believers will one day be fully united with Christ in glory, encouraging them to live in a manner worthy of their calling.
The Divine Logic
By Major Ian Thomas91:05:571TH 5:9Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the concept of 'The Divine Logic,' illustrating how Jesus, while fully God, lived as a perfect man to demonstrate what humanity should be. He explains that God's demands on man are logical from His perspective, as He empowers us to fulfill them through His presence within us. Thomas argues that true Christianity is not merely about being redeemed but about allowing Christ to live through us, restoring the intended relationship between God and man. He highlights that the essence of the Christian life is to let God be God in us, enabling us to express His character and purpose in our lives. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize the transformative power of Christ within them, which is essential for living a fulfilling Christian life.
Epistle 390
By George Fox0GEN 22:18EXO 3:2DEU 6:7PSA 121:8George Fox emphasizes the importance of living in the holy seed of Christ, which brings blessings and renewal into the image of God. He warns against the deceptive spirits and false prophets that can lead believers astray, urging them to remain steadfast in the truth and love of God. Fox highlights the necessity of discernment in the face of those who may appear godly but deny the power of God in their actions. He encourages the faithful to dwell in love, which builds up the body of Christ and leads to true blessings. Ultimately, he calls for vigilance against the serpent's lies and a commitment to the peaceable government of Christ.
This Is That Bread Which Came Down From Heaven
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 27:1PSA 73:261CO 6:132CO 1:9EPH 5:30A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound truth of relying on God's strength rather than our own, as illustrated by Paul's experience of drawing life from Christ, who overcame death. He highlights the significance of being members of Christ's body, which serves as a source of divine strength and vitality. Simpson encourages believers to recognize the body as a vessel for the Lord, embodying the promise of resurrection and eternal life. He challenges the congregation to embrace this supernatural secret and live out the life of Christ in their own flesh. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of God's sustaining power in our lives.
(1986 Prairie Series) 4 - Rediscovering Christ
By Major Ian Thomas12K1:19:19LUK 22:32LUK 24:49JHN 5:39JHN 14:6ACT 1:8ROM 8:112CO 5:17GAL 2:201PE 1:181JN 1:1Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the transformative power of recognizing Christ's resurrection in the life of believers, particularly through the experience of Peter. He illustrates how Peter's denial and subsequent conversion led to a profound understanding of the necessity of Christ's sacrifice and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Thomas explains that true Christian living is not about self-effort but about allowing Christ to live through us, highlighting the importance of faith and divine empowerment. He encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ and to share His life with others, moving beyond mere religious activity to a genuine relationship with the risen Lord.
Glorious Contradictions
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 16:25LUK 6:38JHN 12:24ROM 8:371CO 1:272CO 5:172CO 12:9GAL 2:20PHP 3:8JAS 4:10A.W. Tozer explores the concept of 'Glorious Contradictions' in the Christian life, emphasizing how believers embody paradoxes that reflect their faith. He illustrates that Christians are both dead and alive, strong in weakness, and find true life through self-denial. Tozer points out that genuine faith often leads to surprising outcomes, such as being most secure when feeling fearful and most sinful when feeling self-righteous. These contradictions highlight the transformative power of Christ in a believer's life, showcasing how they live out the teachings of Jesus. Ultimately, Tozer encourages Christians to embrace these paradoxes as a testament to their faith.
Major Ian Thomas' Testimony
By Major Ian Thomas0MAT 11:28JHN 14:6JHN 15:5ROM 5:102CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 3:20PHP 1:21COL 3:41JN 4:4Major Ian Thomas shares his testimony of spiritual exhaustion and despair at the age of nineteen, where he realized that despite his sincere efforts to serve God, he was failing because he was trying to live for Christ instead of allowing Christ to live through him. In a moment of surrender, he understood that Christ is his life and strength, leading to a transformative experience where he began to see God work through him in ways he had never imagined. This shift from self-reliance to reliance on Christ resulted in a fruitful ministry, where he witnessed many conversions and a newfound joy in his Christian life. Thomas emphasizes that true Christian living comes from recognizing and accepting Christ as the source of life and strength, rather than attempting to fulfill God's work through one's own efforts.
How to Live the Impossible Life
By Major Ian Thomas101:13:01PSA 116:1JHN 10:10JHN 11:41ROM 5:12ROM 6:42CO 5:14GAL 2:20EPH 1:131PE 1:32PE 1:3Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the concept of living the impossible life through the indwelling of Christ, explaining that true life comes from being spiritually alive in Him. He discusses the significance of Christ's death and resurrection, highlighting that believers are not only forgiven but also empowered to live a life that reflects God's nature. Thomas illustrates that salvation is not merely about forgiveness but about sharing in the life of Christ, which transforms the believer's existence. He encourages Christians to recognize their own bankruptcy and to allow Christ to live through them, thus experiencing the fullness of life intended by God. The sermon concludes with a call to surrender to Christ, who is the source of true strength and victory.
A Human Vehicle of the Divine Life
By Major Ian Thomas0JHN 15:5ROM 8:372CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 3:20PHP 4:13COL 1:271TH 5:24HEB 2:141JN 4:4Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that the call to a righteous life is not a burden of self-effort but a divine enablement through Christ. He explains that by trusting in Christ, believers can experience a supernatural life where God works through them, freeing them from self-distrust and the fear of others' opinions. This divine provision allows Christians to live victoriously, overcoming the struggles of their humanity while being empowered by the life of Christ within them. Ultimately, they become vessels of divine life, embodying true humanity restored through Christ's victory over death.
Practical Lessons of the Resurrection
By Samuel Logan Brengle0EPH 1:17Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the transformative power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, asserting that the same power that raised Him from the dead is available to all believers. He explains that through Christ's victory over sin and death, believers are empowered to live holy lives and fulfill God's will, receiving gifts of love, joy, and spiritual insight. Brengle encourages Christians to embrace their calling and responsibilities, recognizing that they are to sustain a relationship with Christ similar to His relationship with the Father during His earthly ministry. He challenges believers to forsake worldly pleasures and pursue a deeper knowledge of Christ and His resurrection power. Ultimately, he stresses that living in this truth is both an obligation and an inspiration for every follower of Christ.
The Image of the Invisible God
By Major Ian Thomas852:12JHN 3:17JHN 6:29JHN 12:44JHN 14:10JHN 15:5JHN 17:3ROM 8:42CO 3:18PHP 3:10COL 1:15Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the image of the invisible God, highlighting that His life was a derived life, fully dependent on the Father. He explains that true righteousness comes from allowing Christ to live through us, making us vessels of His divine action. Thomas stresses that being a Christian is not merely about conversion but about living in a way that reflects Christ's life and character in our daily actions. He encourages believers to recognize their need for the Holy Spirit to enable them to embody the righteousness of Christ, thus fulfilling their purpose as created in God's image.
Christ in Colossians
By A.B. Simpson0COL 1:17COL 2:3COL 2:6COL 2:9COL 3:1A.B. Simpson emphasizes the centrality of Christ in the book of Colossians, portraying Him as the preeminent figure in all aspects of life, creation, providence, truth, redemption, and the believer's life. He illustrates that Christ is the fullness of God and the source of wisdom and knowledge, urging believers to set their affections on heavenly things. Simpson uses the analogy of an artist who strives to capture the essence of Christ, highlighting that true life in Christ transforms and elevates our existence. He calls for a deep, personal relationship with Jesus, asserting that our identity and actions should reflect His character. Ultimately, Simpson concludes with the hope of glory that believers have in Christ, who is our life and future hope.
Love Is of God," and "God Is love." 1 John 4:7-21.
By John Nelson Darby01JN 4:7John Nelson Darby emphasizes that the essence of Christianity is not just about grace and justification but about the life of Christ manifested in us, which is characterized by righteousness and love for one another. He explains that God's love is revealed through the sending of His Son, who provides life and propitiation for our sins, allowing us to live through Him. Darby contrasts the teachings of Paul and John, noting that while Paul focuses on justification, John reveals God's nature and love towards humanity. He encourages believers to recognize that God's love dwells within them through the Holy Spirit, which should inspire them to love others and live righteously. Ultimately, he reassures that perfect love casts out fear, especially concerning the day of judgment, as believers are seen as righteous in Christ.
Cross: Power by the Cross
By G. Campbell Morgan0ROM 1:161CO 1:182CO 12:9GAL 2:20EPH 6:10PHP 4:13COL 1:112TI 1:7HEB 4:161PE 5:10G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the transformative power of the Cross in the life of believers, highlighting that while they experience pardon, purity, and peace through Christ, they also require ongoing power to navigate life's challenges. He explains that the Cross is not just a historical event but a source of strength for those who are being saved, enabling them to resist temptation, endure suffering, and fulfill their divine purpose. Morgan encourages believers to embrace their weaknesses, as it is in surrendering to Christ that they can access the true power of the Cross, which empowers them for service and living a victorious Christian life.