Perseverance in Trials
Perseverance in Trials7
The Coming of the Crowning Day
By T. Austin-Sparks0ROM 5:31CO 9:242CO 4:17PHP 3:81TH 2:192TI 4:8HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 5:4REV 2:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the crowns offered by God to His servants, which symbolize victory and honor through trials and tribulations. He discusses three specific crowns: the Crown of Righteousness, which represents God's rightful place in our lives; the Crown of Life, awarded to those who endure temptation and remain faithful; and the Crown of Glory, given to those who selflessly serve the Lord. Each crown is tied to the challenges faced in life, highlighting the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of adversity. Ultimately, Sparks encourages believers to strive for these crowns, recognizing the privilege of standing for Christ's Lordship in a challenging world.
The Chained Ambassador
By Samuel Logan Brengle0EPH 6:18Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the powerful example of Paul, who, despite being imprisoned and chained, continued to fulfill his role as an ambassador for Christ through prayer and perseverance. Brengle highlights that true ministry can occur even in the most challenging circumstances, as Paul wrote letters that inspired countless believers and taught the importance of prayer. He encourages those who feel 'chained' by illness or other life circumstances to embrace a ministry of prayer, asserting that their intercessions can have a profound impact on the world. Brengle reflects on his own experience of being sidelined by illness, finding purpose in prayer and trust in God's plan. Ultimately, he reminds us that God values the heart's cry for His glory and the salvation of souls, regardless of one's physical situation.
Letter: 41e 81 G v Wigram, Somerton, May 27th, 1845
By John Nelson Darby0ROM 8:31PHP 4:6John Nelson Darby shares a letter detailing the challenges faced by the brethren during a time of persecution and unrest. Despite a recent riot at their meeting, the congregation remains joyful and united in faith, trusting in God's protection and guidance. Darby emphasizes the importance of maintaining their testimony amidst political turmoil, choosing to meet in smaller groups to avoid provoking further conflict. He expresses gratitude for the support of the Lord and the joy found in their trials, noting that their faith has strengthened and attracted new members. The letter concludes with a hopeful outlook on their situation, relying on God's sovereignty over their circumstances.
Loving Jesus in the Midst of Pressure (Rom. 5:1-11)
By Mike Bickle231:05:12MAT 5:8ROM 5:1COL 3:3HEB 6:10Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of loving Jesus amidst life's pressures, urging believers to recognize that even weak love for God is genuine and moves His heart. He addresses common misconceptions about love for God, encouraging a realistic perspective that values small acts of love and service. Bickle highlights Romans 5:1-11, where Paul teaches that tribulations can produce perseverance, character, and hope, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with God. He calls for believers to rejoice in both the hope of God's glory and in tribulations, as these experiences shape their spiritual journey. The sermon concludes with an invitation to engage more deeply with God in the mundane aspects of life.
A Sweet Interpretation
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 119:71ISA 61:3ROM 8:282CO 4:172CO 12:9PHP 3:10HEB 12:11JAS 1:21PE 1:6REV 2:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes that love empowers believers to endure hardships by interpreting afflictions as divine tools for spiritual growth. He asserts that love helps the soul view trials not as punishments but as opportunities to experience God's glory and sweetness. Afflictions, according to love, are friends that refine us and lead us closer to God, ultimately resulting in greater heavenly joy. Brooks encourages believers to embrace their struggles with the understanding that they serve a higher purpose in God's plan.
Jesus' Prophecies Concerning the Destruction of Jerusalem Luke 21:5-24
By R.A. Torrey0LUK 21:5R.A. Torrey discusses Jesus' prophecies regarding the destruction of Jerusalem, emphasizing the perils and persecutions that His disciples would face. He highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of impending judgment and the need for believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst trials. Torrey explains that Jesus forewarned His followers about false teachers and the necessity of fleeing from Jerusalem when the time came. The sermon underscores the assurance of divine help and protection for those who endure suffering for Christ's name. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the fulfillment of God's promises and the hope of restoration for His people.
The Foundation of Faith
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 53:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that faith is the foundational element of the Christian life, linking it to the divine seed born from Christ's suffering. He explains that true children of God are those of faith, not merely of flesh, and that faith is essential for union and communion with God. Sparks highlights that all virtues such as love, joy, and peace depend on faith, and that the absence of faith leads to spiritual calamities. He uses Abraham as an example of faith, illustrating that despite trials and delays, true faith perseveres and is ultimately rewarded. The sermon calls believers to trust in God's character and promises, regardless of circumstances.