Moral Responsibility
Moral Responsibility17
California & America Are Worth Fighting For!
By Shane Idleman1308:59EXO 32:11Shane Idleman passionately argues that California and America are worth fighting for, urging believers to take a stand against the moral decline in society. He emphasizes the importance of intercession, drawing parallels to biblical figures like Moses, Abraham, and Esther, who pleaded for their people before God. Idleman expresses frustration with complacency and calls for a return to fervent prayer and action, warning against the dangers of silence in the face of evil. He challenges the church to rise up and confront the issues plaguing the nation, reminding listeners that with God, there is always hope. The preacher's message is a clarion call for believers to engage actively in the fight for righteousness.
Moral Sleep
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 4:8PSA 127:2MAT 26:41ROM 13:111CO 15:34GAL 6:7EPH 5:141TH 5:6HEB 12:1REV 3:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the need to awaken from moral and spiritual sleep, urging believers to recognize and address the sins of commission and omission in their lives. He highlights that while natural sleep is a gift from God, moral sleep leads to disobedience and grieving the Holy Spirit. Tozer points out that many Christians are unaware of their moral slumber, allowing behaviors that displease God and neglecting their spiritual responsibilities. He calls for a wake-up call to righteousness, encouraging believers to confront their complacency and strive for a deeper relationship with God.
When the Weak Are Destroyed by the Powerful
By Shane Idleman1748:47DEU 27:25PSA 82:3PSA 139:13Shane Idleman addresses the critical issue of abortion in his sermon 'When the Weak Are Destroyed by the Powerful,' emphasizing the need to speak for the voiceless and defend the sanctity of life. He highlights the moral decline in society, particularly regarding the acceptance of abortion, and calls for the church to awaken and take a stand against the powerful forces that promote such practices. Idleman draws parallels between modern abortion and ancient child sacrifices, urging believers to confront false narratives and advocate for the innocent. He encourages repentance and a return to biblical truths, emphasizing that the church must be the moral compass of the nation. Ultimately, he offers hope for redemption and healing through Christ for those affected by abortion.
"What Shall I Do With Jesus?"
By J.R. Miller0J.R. Miller reflects on the tragic story of Pontius Pilate, who, despite knowing Jesus' innocence, chose to prioritize his own interests over justice. Pilate's indecision and moral failure led him to ask the haunting question, 'What shall I do with Jesus?' Ultimately, he succumbed to the pressure of the crowd and condemned an innocent man, forever marking his legacy with infamy. Miller emphasizes that Pilate's opportunity for honor was lost due to his failure to stand for what was right, illustrating the consequences of moral compromise. The sermon serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of making righteous choices in the face of pressure.
The Wrath of God Against Those Who Withstand His Truth
By Charles Finney0PSA 19:1JHN 3:19ROM 1:18Charles Finney emphasizes the seriousness of God's wrath against those who resist His truth, explaining that all individuals are accountable for recognizing God's existence through nature and His moral law. He defines unrighteousness as the deliberate refusal to obey known truths and highlights that holding back the truth leads to moral corruption and ultimately, God's displeasure. Finney warns that this resistance to truth not only reveals one's character but also positions them as enemies of God, deserving of His wrath. He illustrates how God's wrath is manifested through conscience, remorse, and abandonment, urging listeners to recognize their moral obligations to God. The sermon serves as a call to repentance and obedience, stressing that neglecting God's claims is a grave sin.
Professor Finney's Letters to Christians No. 2
By Charles Finney0PRO 20:1MAT 5:16ROM 14:231CO 6:191CO 10:31GAL 5:13EPH 5:15COL 3:171TH 5:211PE 2:16Charles Finney addresses the issue of tobacco use among Christians, questioning the moral justification behind the habit. He emphasizes that actions must be rooted in love for God and others, and challenges believers to consider whether their use of tobacco serves a higher purpose or is merely self-indulgent. Finney argues that tobacco is harmful and poses a moral dilemma for Christians, urging them to reflect on the impact of their choices on future generations. He calls for a serious evaluation of whether using tobacco aligns with their duty to promote the well-being of others and glorify God.
On Sinning
By Charles Finney0MAT 5:16MAT 7:21LUK 6:46JHN 14:15ROM 2:13GAL 5:6EPH 2:10JAS 4:171PE 1:151JN 2:4Charles Finney emphasizes the grave nature of sin, particularly the sin of neglecting known duties as outlined in James 4:17. He argues that true faith must manifest in love and obedience, and that neglecting any known duty is a deliberate rejection of moral obligation to God. Finney clarifies that both Paul and James teach the necessity of works as a condition of salvation, and that failing to act on known duties is tantamount to sin. He warns that living in neglect of duty leads to spiritual deception and ultimately, separation from God. The sermon calls for a commitment to fulfill all known obligations to God and others as a true expression of faith.
How Is It Possible That Men Should Delight in What They Do Not Believe…
By Andrew Murray0PRO 1:7MAT 7:24LUK 6:46JHN 13:17ROM 2:131CO 8:1GAL 6:7PHP 4:92TI 3:7JAS 1:22Andrew Murray explores the paradox of individuals finding joy in knowledge they do not genuinely believe or live out. He emphasizes that while the pursuit of knowledge can be pleasurable and enlightening, it becomes dangerous in moral contexts where knowledge of duty exists without corresponding action. This disconnect leads to a blinding of the conscience and self-deception, where individuals feel satisfied with knowledge that ultimately condemns them. Murray stresses the importance of not just teaching but also training, ensuring that knowledge translates into action and character development.
A Moral Pronouncement
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 17:5HEB 1:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes that God's message to humanity today is centered on the authority of Jesus Christ, His beloved Son, urging people to listen to Him. He points out that the rejection of this message stems from a reluctance to submit to the moral authority of God's Word, which serves as the ultimate standard for morality and Christian ethics. Tozer highlights that throughout history, God has communicated through inspired individuals, yet many choose to ignore this divine guidance. He stresses the importance of understanding Scripture through the same Spirit that inspired it, ensuring a unified comprehension of God's message.
The Responsibility of Choice
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 19:16A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound responsibility of human choice in his sermon 'The Responsibility of Choice.' He illustrates how Jesus respected the rich young ruler's decision to walk away, highlighting that true humanity requires the freedom to make moral choices without coercion. Tozer argues that while God offers grace and guidance, the act of repentance must come from the individual, as forcing it would undermine the essence of free will. He asserts that without the freedom to choose, neither sin nor righteousness can exist, as moral actions must be voluntary to hold true significance.
Thy Will Be Done
By Charles Finney0PSA 40:8MAT 6:10ROM 12:2GAL 5:13EPH 6:6PHP 2:13COL 3:23JAS 4:171PE 2:151JN 5:14Charles Finney emphasizes the profound implications of the prayer 'Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven,' exploring the relationship between human will, moral responsibility, and divine law. He argues that true religion requires a state of will that aligns with God's will, which is characterized by universal benevolence. Finney critiques both old and new theological schools for their inconsistent views on free will and moral obligation, asserting that genuine obedience to God's law is rooted in a sincere desire to do His will. He concludes that nothing short of a heart fully devoted to God can truly offer this prayer, highlighting the necessity of a transformative change in one's will to achieve true holiness.
Dead Passivity
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 5:16ROM 12:12CO 5:17GAL 5:13EPH 2:10PHP 2:12COL 3:23HEB 10:24JAS 1:221PE 2:9A.W. Tozer addresses the troubling trend of passivity within the church, comparing it to a mortuary where the active undertaker contrasts with the passive dead. He emphasizes that churchgoers often adopt a passive role, merely receiving the minister's instruction without engaging in moral action. Tozer argues that the true purpose of preaching is not just to instruct but to inspire listeners to take action in their faith. He warns that without a moral response, congregants remain spiritually dead, highlighting the need for active participation in their faith journey.
Doubtful Actions Are Sinful
By Charles Finney0MAT 7:1ROM 14:231CO 8:11CO 10:31GAL 5:13COL 3:17HEB 10:26JAS 4:171PE 2:161JN 3:20Charles Finney emphasizes that actions taken in doubt are sinful, referencing Romans 14:23, which states that anything not done in faith is sin. He discusses the early church's disputes over dietary laws and the importance of acting according to one's conscience, warning that to act against one's doubts is to sin against God. Finney argues that individuals must seek clarity on their doubts and refrain from actions that could lead others astray, highlighting the moral responsibility to avoid causing others to stumble. He concludes that those who knowingly act against their doubts are condemned and must repent to avoid judgment.
Guilt Modified by Ignorance
By Charles Finney0PRO 28:13EZK 18:30MAT 5:14LUK 13:3ACT 17:30ROM 12:2GAL 6:7JAS 4:172PE 3:91JN 1:9Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of repentance in light of increased moral understanding, arguing that ignorance once excused certain behaviors, but now, with greater knowledge, individuals are held to a higher standard of accountability. He applies this principle to contemporary issues such as temperance and slavery, urging Christians to recognize their moral responsibilities and act against injustices. Finney asserts that true repentance involves a change of heart and actions, and he calls for immediate reform in response to the light of truth. He warns that failure to repent when one is enlightened leads to greater guilt and potential destruction for individuals and nations alike. The sermon challenges Christians to engage actively in moral reform and to uphold their responsibilities in the face of societal issues.
A Seared Conscience
By Charles Finney0PSA 32:3PRO 28:13ROM 2:15EPH 4:191TI 4:22TI 3:1HEB 10:22JAS 1:221PE 3:161JN 1:9Charles Finney addresses the concept of a seared conscience, explaining that it is not merely a lack of knowledge of right and wrong, but a state of insensitivity to moral obligations and guilt. He outlines the characteristics and consequences of a seared conscience, emphasizing how it can develop through neglecting moral duties, indulging in sin, and resisting the affirmations of reason. Finney warns that a seared conscience leads to apathy towards moral issues and a lack of remorse for wrongdoing, ultimately distancing individuals from God. He encourages self-examination and a return to a sensitive conscience to restore moral clarity and spiritual health.
The Folly of Refusing to Be Saved
By Charles Finney0PRO 17:16ISA 55:1MAT 11:28JHN 3:16ROM 1:20EPH 2:8HEB 2:3JAS 4:172PE 3:91JN 1:9Charles Finney delivers a powerful sermon on the folly of refusing salvation, emphasizing that sinners possess the means to attain eternal life yet lack the heart to pursue it. He defines moral fools as those who, despite having the intelligence to choose wisely, allow their passions to dictate their actions, ultimately leading to their own destruction. Finney argues that God has provided everything necessary for salvation, including Christ's sacrifice and the Holy Spirit's guidance, yet many still choose to reject this gift. He challenges listeners to recognize the absurdity of prioritizing temporary pleasures over eternal happiness and to confront their own indifference towards the salvation offered to them. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility each individual has in accepting or rejecting God's grace.
The Moral Option
By Major Ian Thomas1057:46PRO 3:5JHN 5:19JHN 8:28JHN 12:44ROM 14:23GAL 3:14EPH 2:10COL 1:15HEB 11:6REV 4:11Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the moral option inherent in humanity, distinguishing between the instinctive behavior of animals and the moral capacity of humans to choose dependence on God. He explains that true functionality and satisfaction come from allowing the Holy Spirit to govern our minds, emotions, and wills, enabling us to reflect God's character in our actions. Thomas stresses that faith, which encompasses dependence and obedience to God, is essential for pleasing Him and fulfilling our purpose as created beings. He illustrates that Jesus exemplified this perfect relationship with the Father, and as His followers, we are called to live in the same way, allowing Christ to express Himself through us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a genuine relationship with God that transforms our lives and actions into a true reflection of His nature.