Harry Ironside emphasizes that the primary theme of the Book of Job is repentance, rather than the question of why the righteous suffer. He illustrates how Job, a man of great integrity, ultimately comes to recognize his own sinfulness and need for repentance, culminating in his declaration of self-abhorence and humility before God. Ironside contrasts Job's journey with other biblical figures, highlighting that even the most righteous among us must confront the evil within and seek God's mercy. The sermon underscores that true repentance is essential for all, regardless of one's perceived righteousness, and is a work of the Holy Spirit leading to self-judgment and blessing.

F.B. Meyer explores the profound transformation that occurs when one truly encounters God, as exemplified by Job's realization of his own shortcomings. Despite being regarded as righteous and upright, Job's hidden flaws were revealed in the light of God's presence, leading him to abhor himself and repent. This sermon emphasizes that true self-awareness and humility come from a genuine vision of God, which in turn makes Jesus more precious to us. Meyer encourages believers to seek this divine encounter, as it empowers them to intercede for others and bless the world through humble service. The message highlights the necessity of recognizing our imperfections to attain true peace and blessedness.

Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the need for God's guidance in understanding our true selves. He highlights that God knows us intimately, including our thoughts and motivations, and that this knowledge can be overwhelming. The prayer 'Search me, O God' reflects a desire for divine insight into our hearts, especially regarding our eternal destiny. Smith warns against self-deception, particularly in relation to our relationship with God and the dangers of living in darkness while claiming to walk in the light. Ultimately, he encourages believers to seek the narrow path that leads to eternal life through Jesus.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes that all Christians harbor secret sins, often unknown even to themselves. He reflects on the nature of human error, asserting that no one, regardless of their holiness or wisdom, can fully comprehend their own sins. Brooks highlights various forms of secret sins, including pride, hypocrisy, and unbelief, suggesting that if these were visible, it would cause profound shame. He urges believers to seek God's cleansing from these hidden faults, echoing the plea found in Psalm 19:12.

Octavius Winslow emphasizes the critical need for self-examination among Christians, urging believers to assess their faith and relationship with Christ. He points out that many are quick to judge others but neglect their own spiritual condition, which can lead to deterioration and spiritual ruin. Winslow stresses that just as various professions require diligent oversight to prevent failure, so too does the soul require constant scrutiny to ensure it remains vibrant and alive in Christ. He explains that Christ dwells in believers through the Holy Spirit, and this indwelling is essential for spiritual growth and grace. The sermon serves as a call to action for believers to not take their faith for granted but to actively seek the presence of Christ in their hearts.

Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of breaking up the fallow ground of our hearts to prepare for a revival within the Church. He explains that fallow ground represents hearts that have become hardened and unproductive, and that true revival requires self-examination and a deep, honest confession of sins. Finney outlines practical steps for individuals to reflect on their spiritual state, confront their sins, and cultivate a heart receptive to God's Word. He warns that without this internal work, preaching and religious activities will be ineffective, leading to a fruitless faith. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to this transformative process to experience genuine revival and spiritual awakening.

G.W. North emphasizes the significance of participating in communion as a testimony of one's living union with Christ. He explains that partaking in the feast is not a means to become a member of the body of Christ, but rather a declaration of one's current relationship with Him. North warns that without self-examination and genuine communion with the Lord, participation can be destructive both to oneself and to the community. He stresses the importance of coming to the table with a heart aligned with Christ, as true communion fosters love and loyalty within the Church. Ultimately, the act of communion should reflect a shared life in Christ among believers.

John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of self-examination in the Christian faith, as Paul instructs the Corinthians to assess their spiritual state and the authenticity of their faith. He contrasts the power of Christ that enables believers to overcome sin with the dangers of reprobation, urging the congregation to recognize their reliance on Christ rather than their own merits. Darby highlights that true peace comes from faith in Jesus, not from self-assessment, and encourages believers to seek completeness in their spiritual journey. He also notes the significance of the titles used for Jesus and the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers.

F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of self-judgment and the need for divine guidance in forming opinions about others, warning against the dangers of critical and unfounded judgments. He encourages believers to seek God's insight into their own hearts before judging others, highlighting the necessity of prayer and the pursuit of truth. Meyer also reminds us of the power of asking God for good gifts, particularly the Holy Spirit, and urges the adoption of the Golden Rule as a guiding principle in our interactions with others.

K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that our spiritual growth cannot be hindered by others if we walk with the Lord and trust in Him as our shield and defender. He warns that the only one who can truly destroy us is ourselves through the rejection of Jesus and violation of God's principles, which can lead to destruction in various aspects of our lives. The sermon encourages self-examination and honesty, urging believers to invite God to search their hearts and reveal any hidden sins or hindrances. By following David's example of humility and repentance, we can remove obstacles to our spiritual progress and experience God's grace. Ultimately, it is through God's guidance that we can understand our true condition and move forward in our faith.

Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in all aspects of life, urging self-examination and accountability before God. He reflects on Jesus' teaching that being faithful in small matters is crucial, as it reflects our character in larger responsibilities. Brengle challenges listeners to consider their faithfulness in finances, time management, speech, and personal conduct, reminding them that every action is observed by God. He encourages a life lived in God's sight, aiming to please Him in all things, and concludes with the promise of divine reward for those who are faithful. The sermon serves as a call to integrity and diligence in our daily lives.

Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the critical need for self-examination of our souls, warning against the dangers of self-deception as illustrated by a young man who believed he was healthy despite his terminal condition. He draws parallels between physical ailments and spiritual health, urging the congregation to assess their relationship with God and the state of their souls. Waldvogel highlights the importance of repairing the broken altar in our hearts, as Elijah did, to restore our connection with God. He reminds us that true healing and understanding of our spiritual condition come from the discernment of Christ, who knows our hearts. The sermon calls for a sincere commitment to God, urging believers to not wait until it's too late to seek Him.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of self-examination for a fruitful Christian life, urging believers to align their lives with the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount and other New Testament scriptures. He advocates for a humble approach to self-assessment, recommending that individuals engage in this practice on their knees, ready to obey God's commandments. Tozer warns against the distractions of modern entertainment that can hinder spiritual growth, suggesting that a serious-minded attitude is essential for cultivating a healthy spiritual life. He likens the process of self-examination to the diligent work of Isaac's laborers, who, though unglamorous, achieved their goal of opening wells. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a radical change in habits to foster a more conducive environment for spiritual development.

J.C. Ryle emphasizes the significance of the Lord's Supper, urging believers to examine themselves before partaking in this sacred ordinance. He addresses common misconceptions and the importance of understanding the true purpose of communion, which is to remember Christ's sacrifice. Ryle highlights that the Lord's Supper is not a means of justification or conversion, but rather a means to strengthen faith and deepen repentance. He warns against the dangers of neglecting this ordinance and encourages believers to approach it with reverence and understanding. Ultimately, Ryle calls for a return to the biblical truth surrounding communion to foster unity and spiritual growth among Christians.

J. Edwin Orr emphasizes the necessity of self-examination and surrender to God, urging believers to invite the Lord to search their hearts and cleanse them from sin. He highlights the transformative power of God's love and the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit to ignite a revival within. Orr calls for a deep desire to magnify God's name and a commitment to live wholly for Him, acknowledging that true revival begins in the individual heart.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of self-examination for Christians, comparing an unexamined life to an unattended garden, a dirty house, and an untaught child. He argues that just as these require care and attention to thrive, so too does the Christian life need regular reflection and discipline to prevent spiritual decay. Tozer encourages believers to heed the Holy Spirit's call to examine themselves, assuring them that this process is not meant to discourage but to awaken and cultivate a fruitful spiritual life.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound significance of the prayer 'Search me, O God,' urging believers to invite God to examine their hearts and reveal hidden sins. He highlights the courage and honesty required to genuinely seek divine scrutiny, contrasting it with the superficial judgments of others. Miller reassures that God's omniscience is a source of comfort for believers, as He understands our struggles and offers mercy. The sermon encourages a willingness to confront our flaws and the transformative power of God's searching light in our lives, leading us toward everlasting life.

Charles Finney addresses objections to his teachings on entire sanctification, emphasizing that consciousness is the primary means by which individuals can understand their spiritual state. He argues that if God requires self-knowledge, then humans must possess the ability to know their own character, despite the challenges posed by ignorance and sin. Finney clarifies that consciousness is essential for recognizing one's thoughts and actions, and that it is through this awareness that one can discern their relationship with God's law. He acknowledges the potential for self-deception but insists that the truth of consciousness should not be suppressed due to fear of misuse.

Charles Finney emphasizes the importance of recognizing how our actions and attitudes can grieve the Holy Spirit, who is deeply affected by our moral choices. He outlines various ways in which we can cause this grief, including neglecting the truth, engaging in vain conversation, and harboring ill will or prejudice. Finney urges listeners to reflect on their personal conduct and the impact it has on their relationship with the Holy Spirit, stressing that every neglect of duty and selfish act can lead to spiritual consequences. The sermon serves as a call to self-examination and repentance, encouraging believers to align their lives with the truth and holiness that the Holy Spirit seeks to cultivate within them.

Charles Finney emphasizes the significance of the Lord's Supper, explaining its dual purpose: to commemorate Christ's atoning death and to symbolize the spiritual sustenance believers receive through faith in Him. He outlines the conditions for acceptable participation, including self-examination, a living faith, and a deep sympathy with Christ's love and compassion for sinners. Finney warns against the dangers of partaking unworthily, which can lead to spiritual blindness and judgment, while also highlighting the blessings of coming to the table with a sincere heart. Ultimately, he calls believers to approach the Lord's table with reverence, recognizing the profound implications of this sacred ordinance.

Zac Poonen warns about the spiritual decline seen in the five backslidden messengers and churches of Revelation 2 and 3. He highlights the loss of first love in Ephesus, the creeping worldliness in Pergamum, the rampant hypocrisy in Sardis, and the complete decay in Laodicea. Each church reflects a downward trend where complacency and pride blind the messengers to their spiritual condition. Poonen emphasizes the need for self-examination and discipline among church leaders to maintain their anointing and purity. He reminds that no one is beyond correction and that true leadership begins with personal accountability to God.

Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of self-examination for Christians to understand their true moral character in the eyes of God. He argues that uncertainty about one's spiritual state leads to a lack of peace and that individuals must actively engage with their faith to discern their standing as either saints or sinners. Finney warns against the dangers of self-deception and the importance of focusing on God and His standards to gain clarity about one's feelings towards sin and salvation. He encourages believers to take action in their faith rather than waiting for feelings to come, asserting that true emotions arise from engaging with the realities of faith and the world around them.

David Wilkerson emphasizes the danger of drifting away from Christ, warning that spiritual neglect and apathy can lead to a loss of communion with God. He highlights the importance of not just reading the Bible for quantity but for understanding and meditation, urging believers to heed the warnings of Scripture. Wilkerson encourages self-examination and diligence in maintaining a strong relationship with Christ, reminding us that we are partakers of His grace as long as we remain steadfast in our faith. He calls for a spiritual inventory to assess our walk with Jesus and to guard against complacency. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a wake-up call to remain vigilant in our faith and relationship with God.

Paris Reidhead emphasizes the significance of the Tabernacle as a representation of our approach to God in worship. He describes the various components of the Tabernacle, particularly the laver, which symbolizes self-examination through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. Reidhead urges believers to move beyond initial forgiveness at the altar and to continually seek God's presence through the Word, prayer, and confession. He highlights the importance of recognizing our need for cleansing and the necessity of a deeper relationship with Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a genuine encounter with God, encouraging listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey and commitment.

Chuck Smith emphasizes the gravity of the crucifixion of Christ, portraying those who crucified Him as cruel and vicious, capable of such an act. He challenges the audience to reflect on their own lives, suggesting that many today, through their actions and disbelief, are similarly attempting to 'crucify' Christ by rejecting His influence and love. Smith urges listeners to recognize their own guilt in this act and to seek repentance and a renewed relationship with God. The sermon calls for self-examination and a response to God's voice, highlighting the importance of yielding to His love and guidance.

C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of honesty in all aspects of life, particularly in business and moral judgments, urging Christians to examine their scales and balances. He points out that while we may accurately measure physical weights, we often distort our perceptions of our own and others' virtues, trials, and responsibilities. Spurgeon challenges believers to ensure that their evaluations of afflictions and obligations align with God's standards, warning against the dangers of unjust measures in spiritual matters. He calls for self-examination to root out any unfair scales that may exist in our lives, reminding us that true justice should prevail in our hearts. Ultimately, he encourages Christians to uphold integrity in all dealings, both earthly and spiritual.

Charles Finney addresses the concept of 'Legal Religion,' emphasizing the distinction between true love for God and a self-serving approach to faith. He categorizes religious individuals into three classes, focusing on those motivated by self-love, who treat religion as a secondary concern and perform duties out of obligation rather than genuine affection. Finney critiques this mindset, highlighting that such individuals often prioritize their own salvation over the salvation of others, lack true joy in spiritual practices, and are more concerned with avoiding punishment than with the honor of God. He calls for self-examination among believers to determine their true motivations in faith and urges them to embrace a more genuine, selfless approach to their relationship with God.

Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of breaking up the fallow ground of our hearts to promote a revival within the church. He explains that this process involves self-examination and repentance, urging believers to confront their sins individually and thoroughly. Finney warns against superficial religious feelings and stresses that true revival requires deep heart work and a commitment to spiritual growth. He encourages the congregation to actively engage with their faith and to seek God's righteousness earnestly. The preacher concludes by challenging the listeners to take immediate action in breaking up their hardened hearts to prepare for a genuine revival.

F.B. Meyer delivers a poignant sermon on the dangers of despising one's spiritual birthright, using the examples of Esau and Saul to illustrate how yielding to temptation and partial obedience can lead to being cast away from God's service. He emphasizes the importance of self-examination and the need for believers to confront their appetites and hidden sins that may hinder their relationship with God. Meyer urges the congregation to seek God's forgiveness and restoration, warning that even those in ministry can become castaways if they do not fully surrender to God's will. He calls for a deep introspection to ensure that one's life is not choked by unconfessed sin, which can block the flow of God's grace. Ultimately, Meyer encourages a return to fervent prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit to avoid the fate of being a castaway.

John Wesley emphasizes the profound relationship between God and humanity, as illustrated in Psalm 139, where David acknowledges God's omniscience and omnipresence. He reflects on David's plea for God to search his heart, revealing the importance of self-examination and the desire for a pure heart. Wesley highlights that true humility and spiritual poverty lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a closer relationship with God. He encourages believers to invite God to reveal their inner thoughts and sins, assuring them that through Christ and the Holy Spirit, they too can become people after God's own heart. The sermon challenges listeners to seek purity and authenticity in their spiritual journey.

Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of inviting God to search our hearts, especially during times of spiritual darkness, insensibility, or guilt. He outlines various conditions under which this prayer is particularly relevant, such as feeling distant from God or lacking the spirit of prayer. Finney warns against self-deception and the dangers of justifying one's actions through false standards, urging believers to seek divine illumination to uncover hidden sins. He concludes by encouraging persistent prayer and self-examination, reminding the congregation that true spiritual awakening requires a willingness to confront and confess one's shortcomings.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the dangers of self-assurance and pride, illustrating how individuals can become blinded by their own qualifications and achievements, leading to a hardened heart and spiritual stagnation. He warns that when one believes they are above reproach, they risk losing touch with humility and the transformative power of the cross. Tozer urges listeners to reflect on their past and the sacrifice of Jesus, suggesting that true self-examination will reveal the need for repentance and reliance on God's grace.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of self-judgment for spiritual growth, asserting that a Christian's progress is directly linked to their ability to critically assess themselves. He references Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 11:31, highlighting that self-judgment can help us avoid God's critical judgment. Tozer argues that without a humble, self-critical spirit, practice alone will not lead to perfection but rather reinforce our faults. He encourages a learner's attitude of humility and willingness to be corrected, which opens the mind to improvement.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity for Christians to pause their religious activities and engage in deep self-examination, urging believers to search their hearts and confront any wickedness within. He highlights the current state of the Church, noting a lack of reverence and spiritual power, and calls for a period of silence to prepare for a divine outpouring. Tozer prays for church leaders to encourage this introspective time, recognizing that constant activity can hinder true spiritual growth and connection with God.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that Jesus did not promise an easy life for Christians, nor a release from daily problems and pressures. Instead, he reminds us of the grace of God and the importance of recognizing our own spiritual and moral shortcomings before judging others. Tozer urges believers to take God's Word seriously and to seek forgiveness for any spiritual carelessness or indifference. He calls for self-examination and accountability in our walk with God, highlighting the need for a genuine response to His grace.

Charles Finney addresses young Christians who have recently converted during the great revivals, urging them to reflect on their lives and the authenticity of their faith. He emphasizes that their actions and character should genuinely represent the religion of Jesus Christ, rather than misrepresent it. Finney challenges them with probing questions about their conduct, urging self-examination and honesty in their spiritual walk. He stresses the importance of living in a way that glorifies God and positively impacts those around them. Ultimately, he calls for a sincere commitment to embodying the teachings of Christ in their daily lives.

Nigel Lee emphasizes the importance of spiritual integrity and discernment in 'The Sermon on the Mount (4)', urging believers to examine their own lives before judging others. He highlights the necessity of seeking God's kingdom first and warns against the dangers of a critical spirit, encouraging self-reflection and personal accountability. Lee also discusses the significance of building one's life on the solid foundation of God's Word, contrasting it with the futility of a life built on sand. The sermon concludes with a call to action, reminding listeners that true faith is demonstrated through obedience and the fruits of one's life. Lee's message challenges the congregation to make conscious choices in their spiritual journey.

J.C. Ryle emphasizes the necessity of self-inquiry in the Christian life, urging believers to reflect on their spiritual state and relationship with God. He draws from Acts 15:36, where Paul proposes to revisit the churches to assess their faith and growth. Ryle highlights the abundance of spiritual privileges in the present age, yet warns of the dangers of mere outward profession without true heart-religion. He challenges readers to consider their thoughts, actions, and the authenticity of their faith, ultimately calling for a deeper communion with Christ and readiness for His return.

Charles Finney emphasizes the critical importance of self-examination in understanding one's true character in the faith, urging believers to actively assess their moral standing before God. He outlines the necessity of this requirement for personal peace, honesty in faith, and effective service to others, arguing that uncertainty about one's spiritual state hinders both personal growth and outreach. Finney asserts that self-examination is not only possible but essential, providing practical steps for believers to engage in this process, including focusing on the realities of sin, their relationship with God, and their feelings towards others. He warns against the dangers of self-deception and encourages believers to actively engage with their faith and the world around them to gain clarity about their spiritual condition.

David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of self-examination in the Christian faith, urging believers to scrutinize their spiritual growth and relationship with God. He encourages individuals to assess whether they are becoming more loving, righteous, and eager for Jesus, while also warning against apathy and bitterness. Wilkerson highlights that a true desire for spiritual growth, marked by a thirst for righteousness, indicates that one is growing in faith. He reassures listeners that God is actively working in their lives, even during difficult times, to help them develop spiritually. Ultimately, he calls for a heartfelt plea to the Holy Spirit for guidance and growth in faith.

J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical need for self-examination among believers, urging them to reflect on their spiritual state in light of the abundant privileges and dangers present in their age. He challenges his audience to consider their relationship with God, the authenticity of their faith, and their engagement with the means of grace. Ryle warns against mere outward religious practices devoid of true heart transformation and encourages a deep, personal connection with Christ. He concludes by calling for a readiness for Christ's return, reminding listeners that genuine faith must be active and fruitful.

Zac Poonen emphasizes the hard-heartedness of the Pharisees, illustrating that their outward honor of God is superficial as their hearts are distant from Him. He compares the heart of a Pharisee to butter in a freezer, becoming hard and unyielding due to their separation from God, who is the source of softness and compassion. Poonen points out that those who are hard on others often reflect their own distance from God, while true followers of Christ judge themselves rather than others. He also highlights the hypocrisy of Pharisees, who impose strict rules on others but show leniency towards their own families. The sermon calls for personal convictions without imposing them on others, urging believers to maintain a soft heart through closeness to God.

Erlo Stegen emphasizes the profound love of Jesus, who served others even as the greatest among them, and the importance of recognizing our own need for repentance and self-examination. He illustrates how our actions have consequences, urging listeners to carry their own crosses and reflect on the sacrifice Jesus made for each of us. The sermon highlights the transformative power of understanding Christ's love, as demonstrated through the story of Stenburg and the Gipsy girl, Pepita, who found salvation through the realization of Jesus' sacrifice. Stegen calls for a heartfelt response to Christ's love, asking, 'What are you doing for Me?'

Andrew Murray emphasizes that genuine prayer for revival requires self-examination and a willingness to test both the church and ourselves against the standards set by Christ. He illustrates how Christ's separation from the world and his acceptance of the cross exemplify the stark contrast between the values of the world and the values of the Kingdom of God. The cross serves as a powerful symbol of this relationship, revealing the enmity of the world towards Christ and the strength found in what the world deems foolish. Murray calls for believers to embrace this truth in their pursuit of revival, recognizing the need for a deep commitment to Christ's teachings.

Andrew Murray addresses the hidden sins within the church, emphasizing that many believers may be unaware of the abominations present in their hearts and lives. He draws parallels to the time of Ezekiel, where the people clung to the temple while harboring secret sins, suggesting that today's church may similarly be blind to its own formalities, lukewarmness, and self-seeking behaviors. Murray urges believers to reflect on their inner lives and consider whether their lack of humility, love, and reliance on the Spirit is grieving God. He calls for a self-examination to recognize the need for judgment to begin within the house of God.

Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the significance of humility in the Christian life, urging believers to examine themselves rather than others. He highlights that true discipleship requires a mindset like Christ's, characterized by meekness and lowliness. Waldvogel warns against the dangers of pride and self-seeking, advocating for a transformation of the mind through Christ. He illustrates that embracing humility leads to spiritual renewal and a deeper relationship with God, ultimately allowing believers to reflect Christ's glory through their actions. The sermon calls for a radical shift in perspective, where the challenges and criticisms faced are seen as opportunities for growth in humility.

Art Katz emphasizes the importance of self-examination and critiquing within the church to foster deeper understanding and growth. He argues that a godly critique can lead to healthier relationships, stronger fellowship, and more effective service to God. Katz encourages congregations to assess their church life critically, asking vital questions about the condition of their fellowship, the effectiveness of sermons, and the overall responsiveness of the community. He highlights the need for a deeper engagement with the Cross and a willingness to embrace the tensions of faith rather than seeking mere convenience. Ultimately, this process of examination can lead to a richer spiritual life and a more profound experience of God's presence.

F.B. Meyer explores the concept of true peace, emphasizing that it cannot exist alongside the distractions and sins represented by Jezebel in our lives. He warns against the superficial understanding of peace as merely the absence of conflict, urging believers to confront their inner struggles and surrender fully to God. Jehu's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of neglecting one's own heart while addressing the sins of others. Meyer encourages self-examination and the necessity of allowing God's light to illuminate every part of our lives for genuine peace to flourish.

Shane Idleman preaches on the significance of self-examination and the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our own hearts and motives. He draws parallels between the Passover and Jesus as the ultimate Passover lamb, highlighting the power of the blood for redemption. Idleman encourages believers to not only serve but also to worship, warning against the dangers of being too busy for God. He stresses the need for genuine repentance and the importance of examining oneself before partaking in communion, reminding the congregation that true faith produces genuine fruit in their lives.