Pursuit of Holiness
Pursuit of Holiness9
His Window in All Our Hearts
By Thomas Brooks0JOB 31:4PSA 119:168PSA 139:1PRO 15:3HEB 4:13Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound impact of God's omniscient presence on our lives, illustrating how awareness of God's watchful eye can elevate our pursuit of holiness. He draws parallels between the diligence of a student under a teacher's gaze and the believer's conduct when recognizing God's constant observation. Brooks urges that a serious acknowledgment of God's presence should inspire us to strive for higher degrees of holiness, as we cannot deceive the all-seeing God. He concludes that if the awareness of God's scrutiny does not motivate us, nothing else will.
1 John 3:3
By John Gill0ROM 8:172CO 7:1EPH 5:27PHP 3:20COL 3:12TI 1:9HEB 12:141PE 1:151JN 1:71JN 3:3John Gill emphasizes the significance of hope in Christ as a transformative force for believers, highlighting that true hope is rooted in the person and sacrifice of Jesus. This hope, bestowed upon those who are born again, inspires them to pursue purity and holiness in their lives, reflecting Christ's character. While believers cannot achieve perfect purity, they are called to imitate Christ and strive for a life that mirrors His love, humility, and righteousness. Gill encourages the faithful to recognize their identity as children of God, which motivates them to live in a manner worthy of their calling. Ultimately, this hope not only influences their present lives but also assures them of eternal happiness with Christ.
Take Heed of the Witch
By Thomas Brooks0PHP 3:18Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of being consumed by worldly desires, emphasizing that those who prioritize earthly things become enemies of the cross of Christ, leading to destruction. He laments the tears shed for those who neglect holiness in favor of worldly pleasures, which ultimately lead to spiritual barrenness. Brooks illustrates that the allure of the world can distract believers from their spiritual responsibilities and the pursuit of holiness. He urges listeners to recognize the vanity of worldly pursuits and to fill their hearts with holiness instead of allowing them to be filled with the flesh and the devil. The sermon concludes with a stark choice between the fleeting pleasures of the world and the eternal joy found in holiness.
Lot—a Beacon
By J.C. Ryle0J.C. Ryle emphasizes the story of Lot as a cautionary tale for Christians, illustrating how even a believer can linger in sin and worldliness, ultimately leading to spiritual stagnation. Lot, despite being a righteous man, hesitated to leave Sodom, demonstrating the dangers of complacency and poor choices in life. Ryle warns that lingering can result in a lack of influence for good, both in the world and within one's own family, and encourages believers to pursue holiness and avoid the pitfalls of a half-hearted faith. He calls for self-examination and a return to Christ for those who find themselves in a state of spiritual lethargy, reminding them that true peace and usefulness come from a committed walk with God.
The Good Is Often the Greatest Enemy of the Best.
By Andrew Murray0PSA 139:23Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of divine intervention to reveal the true state of the church and individual believers, urging congregations to seek God's perspective on their spiritual condition. He warns that settling for 'good' can hinder the pursuit of 'best,' as many are complacent with minor improvements rather than striving for the fullness of God's promises. Murray calls for a heartfelt plea for the Holy Spirit to illuminate sin and complacency within the church, encouraging believers to seek a deeper relationship with God and His vision for their lives.
Divinely Covetous
By Thomas Brooks01PE 1:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes that true holiness is characterized by an insatiable desire for greater holiness. A genuinely holy person continually strives for higher degrees of holiness, recognizing that mere measures of holiness are insufficient for their spiritual journey. This relentless pursuit is fueled by a desire to glorify God, sin less, and experience a deeper relationship with Him. Brooks asserts that true holiness knows no limits, making a holy individual divinely covetous in their quest for spiritual growth. Ultimately, a holy man will never feel he has enough holiness, akin to the unquenchable desires seen in other pursuits of life.
If a Christian Could Have His Choice
By Thomas Brooks0MAT 5:48PHP 4:11COL 3:231PE 1:16Thomas Brooks emphasizes that a true Christian, if given the choice, would aspire to embody the highest virtues such as humility, holiness, and patience, striving to reflect God's perfection in their life. He highlights the desire for a deep, active faith that seeks to fulfill God's will with joy and diligence, mirroring the angels in heaven. The Christian's pursuit of grace and perfection is driven by a profound appreciation for the beauty of God and Christ, leading to a relentless quest for spiritual excellence.
Pursue After Holiness
By Thomas Brooks0PRO 3:17MAT 5:8ROM 12:12CO 7:1EPH 4:241TH 4:7HEB 10:24HEB 12:141PE 1:151JN 3:3Thomas Brooks emphasizes the necessity of pursuing holiness, arguing that if the ambitious, pleasure-seeking, and worldly individuals strive for their desires, Christians should strive even more for holiness. He describes the way of holiness as the safest, noblest, sweetest, cleanest, pleasantest, and happiest path, encouraging believers to persist despite obstacles. Brooks reminds the congregation that God continues to show mercy despite their sins, urging them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of sanctity. He challenges them to consider the perseverance of Satan and the wicked, questioning why they should not also persevere in their quest for holiness.
They Play and Fool Away Their Precious Time
By Thomas Brooks0EPH 5:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the extreme value of time, urging listeners to recognize its brevity and preciousness. He warns that time is a commodity that cannot be redeemed once lost, and in hell, one would trade anything for just a moment to repent. Brooks laments how many squander their time on trivial pursuits, leading to sorrow and darkness at the end of life. He calls for a serious reflection on how we use our time, encouraging a fervent pursuit of holiness before it's too late. The sermon serves as a wake-up call to prioritize spiritual growth and redemption.