Preparation for Eternity
Preparation for Eternity6
Ii Kings 20:1
By Chuck Smith02KI 20:1ISA 5:14MAT 24:44LUK 12:40JHN 3:7JHN 14:21TH 4:14HEB 9:27JAS 4:14REV 20:15Chuck Smith emphasizes the inevitability of death, reminding us that it is appointed for all men to die, and that we are constantly reminded of this truth through daily news and events. He stresses that death is not the end, but rather the beginning of our eternal journey, whether to heaven or hell, urging listeners to prepare for their inevitable appointment with death. Smith encourages setting one's house in order through prayer and a personal relationship with Christ, as exemplified by Hezekiah's response to his own mortality.
A Worm, a Gnat, a Fly, a Hair, a Seed of a Raison, a Skin of a Grape
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 39:4PRO 27:1JAS 4:14Thomas Brooks emphasizes the fragility of life and the unpredictability of death, urging listeners not to boast about tomorrow as life is fleeting and full of unseen dangers. He illustrates how easily one can encounter death through seemingly trivial means, reminding us that our time on earth is limited and uncertain. Brooks reassures believers that even in death, they are merely transitioning from earthly struggles to eternal glory with God. The sermon serves as a poignant reminder to live each day with purpose and to seek a saving relationship with Christ before it is too late.
Amos 4:6
By Chuck Smith0MAT 25:1LUK 12:20ROM 14:10HEB 9:272PE 3:9Chuck Smith emphasizes that God's dealings with Israel serve as a parable for all humanity, illustrating His desire for everyone to turn to Him. He highlights that God intentionally places obstacles in our lives, including the ultimate challenge of facing the cross, to lead us toward repentance. Smith reminds us that all individuals will stand before God, either condemned or innocent, and stresses the importance of being prepared for that encounter. He warns against living solely for this life, using examples like the rich fool and the five foolish virgins to illustrate the necessity of spiritual readiness. Ultimately, true preparation involves more than mere reformation; it requires a genuine transformation of the heart.
Proverbs 30:24
By Chuck Smith0PRO 30:24Chuck Smith explores the wisdom found in four small creatures as described in Proverbs 30:24, emphasizing their unique strengths and lessons for humanity. He highlights the ant's diligence in preparing for the future, the conie's reliance on the rock for safety, the locust's power in unity without a visible leader, and the spider's ability to thrive in unexpected places. Each creature serves as a metaphor for spiritual truths, urging believers to prepare for eternity, find strength in Christ, work together as a community, and hold onto God's promises. The sermon encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and the importance of wisdom in daily living.
Being and Doing as God Enables
By A.W. Tozer0PRO 1:17MAT 12:13ROM 12:12CO 5:10EPH 2:10PHP 4:13COL 3:23HEB 4:16JAS 4:141PE 4:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the urgency of preparing for eternity and the folly of procrastination in spiritual matters. He warns against the trap of waiting for help that may never come, urging believers to recognize and accept the divine assistance currently available to them. Tozer illustrates this point by referencing the healing of the paralyzed man, highlighting that God empowers individuals to act in faith. He calls out the laziness and carelessness of Christians who ignore God's enabling grace. Ultimately, Tozer encourages believers to take action now, as God has equipped them for the tasks He sets before them.
Matthew 25:10
By Chuck Smith0AMO 4:12MAT 7:21MAT 25:10LUK 13:25JHN 14:6ROM 10:92CO 5:10HEB 9:271JN 1:7REV 3:20Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for the journey from life to eternity, drawing parallels between earthly travel preparations and the necessity of being ready to meet God. He warns that many neglect this preparation, which can lead to dire consequences, and highlights that the only way to be free from sin is through the blood of Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a sobering reminder that the door to eternity will eventually close, and only those who are ready will enter.