Selflessness
Selflessness in the Bible is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the principles of love and sacrifice that characterize Christian ethics. It is often exemplified through the concept of agape love, which is self-giving and unconditional. In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul urges believers to "do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." This passage emphasizes the importance of looking out for the interests of others, illustrating that true selflessness involves prioritizing the needs and well-being of others over one's own desires.Moreover, selflessness is epitomized in the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described in Mark 10:45 as having come "not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." His ultimate act of selflessness was demonstrated on the cross, where He gave His life for humanity's redemption (John 15:13). The biblical call to selflessness is a reflection of God's nature, encouraging believers to embody this trait in their relationships and communities, ultimately reflecting Christ's love and humility in their daily lives.
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Selfishness
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 16:24PHP 2:3K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the dangers of selfishness in the Christian life, contrasting the selfless dedication of missionaries in Myanmar with the self-centered attitudes prevalent in Western churches. He highlights the sacrifices made by those who prioritize the souls of others over their own comfort, drawing parallels to the Apostle Paul's unwavering commitment to the church despite his own suffering. Yohannan warns that self-centeredness is the greatest obstacle to reaching the lost, urging believers to embrace a life of obedience and service. He challenges the congregation to consider how they can live sacrificially for the sake of the Gospel, echoing the call to take up their cross and follow Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a radical shift in focus from self to others, encouraging a lifestyle of giving and serving.
It Is More Blessed to Give Than to Receive
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 5:16MRK 8:35LUK 6:38JHN 15:13ACT 20:35ROM 12:102CO 9:7GAL 6:2PHP 2:41JN 3:17A.B. Simpson emphasizes the distinction between earthly and heavenly love, noting that earthly love is often self-centered while heavenly love is unselfish and seeks to glorify God and bless others. He challenges listeners to reflect on their giving versus taking, urging them to center their lives around the Lord and His work rather than their own desires. Simpson highlights the profound truth that it is more blessed to give than to receive, encouraging believers to share their treasures and joys with others. He reminds us that true fulfillment comes from selflessness and serving others in love.
The Pursuit of Selfishness
By Charles Finney0MAT 6:201CO 13:5Charles Finney emphasizes that true Christian love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13:5, does not seek its own interests but prioritizes the happiness and well-being of others. He argues that while it is not wrong to care for our own happiness, it should not be our supreme goal; rather, we should aim to glorify God and serve others. Finney illustrates that genuine happiness is found not in selfish pursuits but in selfless acts of love and benevolence. He warns against the dangers of selfishness, asserting that true Christianity is about aligning our desires with God's glory and the good of others. Ultimately, he encourages believers to pursue holiness and benevolence, which will lead to true joy and fulfillment.
Freedom From Selfishness
By Zac Poonen0MAT 16:24JHN 1:18PHP 2:5Zac Poonen emphasizes the call for selfless individuals who prioritize God's work over personal needs, illustrating that true sanctification reflects God's nature of selflessness as demonstrated by Jesus. He points out that Jesus came to serve others, sacrificing His comforts and life for the salvation of humanity, and challenges believers to examine their own willingness to deny themselves for the benefit of others. Poonen critiques the tendency to criticize full-time workers without considering personal sacrifices and highlights that genuine holiness involves a commitment to sacrificial living, free from self-love. He urges the church to reflect on the lives of missionaries who exemplified this selfless love and warns against the deception of a holiness that does not lead to sacrifice.
Session 14: John 17
By Joseph Carroll3040:541PE 1:18Joseph Carroll emphasizes the significance of Christ's sacrifice in John 17, highlighting that Jesus sanctified Himself for our sake, demonstrating selflessness over selfishness. He urges believers to embrace humility and to live for others, reflecting on the eternal impact of our decisions. Carroll draws parallels between the necessity of death for the corn of wheat to produce life and the call for disciples to die to self for the sake of others. He challenges the congregation to build a magnificent life in Christ, forsaking all for the sake of discipleship, and to maintain their savor as salt in the world. The sermon concludes with a prayer for grace to build a character that reflects Christ and impacts eternity.
Who Is a Disciple of Christ? (Part 1)
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 5:16JHN 15:13GAL 2:20PHP 2:3K.P. Yohannan explores the essence of being a disciple of Christ through the life of St. Francis, who exemplified love and kindness without uttering a word. St. Francis's actions, such as feeding the hungry and freeing trapped birds, demonstrated divine love that left a lasting impact on those he encountered. He prayed to be an instrument of peace, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and the need to let go of personal desires and attachments. This 'death to self' is a continuous journey for disciples, where true life is found in serving others and embodying Christ's love. The sermon encourages believers to reflect on their own lives and the ways they can live out their faith through actions of love and service.
I Knew a Man in Christ
By A.B. Simpson0GAL 2:20PHP 2:3A.B. Simpson emphasizes the liberating power of losing oneself in Christ, warning against the burdens of self-consciousness and the tendency to dwell on personal suffering. He encourages believers to release their burdens into God's hands, which allows them to experience true freedom and rise to a higher spiritual plane. By shifting focus from self to others, particularly through prayer, individuals can find healing and blessings, akin to the fertility brought by the Nile. This selfless act not only alleviates personal pain but also enriches the lives of those around us.
Follow Me Pt3
By Phil Beach Jr.181:03:24MAT 6:21JHN 15:12ROM 12:11CO 4:161CO 11:1GAL 2:20EPH 4:1PHP 3:171PE 4:101JN 4:7Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of living a life that models Christ's character, urging Christians to reflect God's nature in their actions. He highlights the distinction between spiritual and carnal living, encouraging believers to pursue spiritual maturity by dying to self and serving others. Beach warns against the hypocrisy that arises when one's actions do not align with their faith, and he calls for a commitment to love and serve within the body of Christ. He stresses that true liberty in Christ is not a license to sin but a call to selflessness and love for others. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that Christ's life within them is the source of their strength to live as worthy role models.
Honoring Others Above Ourselves
By A.W. Tozer0PHP 2:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the well-being of others over oneself, illustrating that a mature spiritual person values living righteously over merely extending life. He contrasts the fear of death in earthly-minded individuals with the indifference of those who live in the Spirit, who are more concerned with their moral integrity than their lifespan. Tozer highlights that true spiritual maturity is marked by a desire to see others succeed, even at one's own expense, reflecting a heart free from envy and aligned with God's will. This selflessness and contentment in God's plan is portrayed as a source of true happiness and stability in life.
"The Mistakes of Israel and Possibly Ours"
By A.W. Tozer0HOS 10:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the mistakes of Israel, particularly their tendency to serve God while also embracing other idols, leading to a divided heart and spiritual decline. He warns that many Christians today may also fall into the trap of selfishness, producing fruit only for themselves rather than for others. Tozer calls for a return to selflessness and commitment to God's work, urging believers to break up their fallow ground and seek the Lord earnestly. He highlights the importance of being channels of God's blessings, rather than stagnant vessels, and encourages the church to focus on outward fruitfulness. Ultimately, Tozer challenges the congregation to reverse their ways of selfishness and to bring forth fruit that benefits others.
Philippians 2:3–4
By K.P. Yohannan0PHP 2:3K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the message of Philippians 2:3-4, urging believers to practice humility and selflessness in their daily lives. He challenges the congregation to move beyond mere words of humility and to genuinely esteem others above themselves, recognizing that circumstances could easily reverse roles. Through a personal story of witnessing a rickshaw driver's struggle, he illustrates the importance of empathy and the grace of God that keeps us from similar hardships. The sermon calls for a transformation in how we view and treat others, encouraging a lifestyle that prioritizes the interests of others over our own.
God-Centered and Other-Centered Living
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 20:28PHP 2:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes the contrast between human selfishness and the selfless love exemplified by Jesus Christ. He argues that society is inherently self-serving, and attempts to create a selfless community often fail due to human nature. However, with Christ's arrival, a new motive for living emerged, symbolized by the cross, which calls for a life devoted to God and the welfare of others. Tozer highlights that true fulfillment comes from living a God-centered and others-centered life, as demonstrated by Christ's own example of service and sacrifice. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to embrace this radical shift in perspective and conduct.
Selflessness Brings Fullness
By Phil Beach Jr.381:15:10PHP 2:3Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the transformative power of selflessness in his sermon 'Selflessness Brings Fullness.' He shares the story of a woman burdened for the lost, illustrating that true spiritual fire comes from being crushed and broken, allowing Christ's life to flow through us. The sermon encourages believers to embrace their trials as God's tools for growth, leading to a deeper understanding of His love and a call to lay down their lives for others. Beach highlights that selflessness is essential for experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit, which empowers us to serve and love others effectively.
Session 10: John 17
By Joseph Carroll2643:28LUK 9:23JHN 7:17JHN 17:1EPH 3:14PHP 2:7Joseph Carroll emphasizes the profound nature of coming into God's presence, recognizing our need for His mercy and grace. He reflects on Jesus' selflessness in John 17, where Christ prays for His glorification not for His own sake but for the Father’s glory, setting an example for believers to follow. Carroll warns against the dangers of criticism among Christians, attributing it to personal grievances rather than genuine concern for others. He stresses that true glorification of God comes from doing His will, which often requires a death to our own desires. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a church rooted in love, filled with the fullness of God, to glorify Him in all things.
Faithfulness in Serving Our Fellow Believers
By Zac Poonen0MAT 6:3LUK 17:28LUK 17:34ROM 12:2Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of serving fellow believers, both spiritually and physically, as a reflection of our faithfulness to God. He highlights that true service is often done in secret, where the left hand does not know what the right hand is doing, and that serving the least of our brothers is akin to serving Christ Himself. Poonen warns against the dangers of self-centeredness and the counterfeit holiness that focuses solely on personal achievements, contrasting it with the genuine love and concern for others that prepares us for Christ's return. He encourages believers to sacrifice their time and plans to serve those in need, reminding us that a true Christian life is marked by a willingness to be inconvenienced for the sake of others. Ultimately, he calls for a renewal of our minds to cultivate a Christ-like thoughtfulness that prioritizes the needs of others over our own.
Others
By K.P. Yohannan0PHP 2:3K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that the normal Christian life is centered on others, as exemplified by the Apostle Paul, who, even in prison, focused on the needs of the churches rather than his own suffering. He highlights the example of William Booth, whose single-word message 'Others' encapsulated a life dedicated to serving others. Yohannan warns against the self-centered mindset prevalent in affluent societies, urging believers to prioritize the salvation of others over personal desires. He identifies self-centeredness as the greatest barrier to reaching the lost and calls for a deliberate choice to follow Christ by laying down our own desires. The sermon challenges listeners to consider practical ways to serve others and invest in the Gospel.
Talking About One's Self
By J.R. Miller0MAT 6:1J.R. Miller emphasizes the dangers of self-promotion and the importance of humility in our actions, particularly in doing good deeds without seeking recognition. He warns that talking about oneself often stems from pride and can diminish one's influence and worth in the eyes of others. Instead, Miller encourages believers to focus on serving God quietly and anonymously, as true rewards come from the Father in heaven rather than from human praise. He cites Jesus' teaching on performing acts of righteousness in secret, highlighting that self-praise is counterproductive and ultimately harms one's character. The sermon calls for a shift away from self-centeredness to a more Christ-centered approach in our lives and interactions.
Send Portions Unto Them for Whom Nothing Is Prepared
By A.B. Simpson0NEH 8:10MAT 25:35A.B. Simpson emphasizes the call to care for those who are neglected and unprepared, drawing from Nehemiah's message during the Feast of Tabernacles. He urges believers to share joy and provisions with the needy, reflecting on the love of Christ for the unworthy and the importance of interceding for those who lack support. Simpson highlights that true strength comes from the joy of the Lord, encouraging a selfless love that mirrors Christ's sacrifice. He challenges the congregation to recognize the many who suffer in silence and to act with compassion and generosity.
Being a Comfort to Others
By J.R. Miller01CO 13:4J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound impact of being a comfort to others, illustrated by a soldier's selfless gratitude towards his nurse rather than seeking recognition for himself. He highlights that true heroism often lies in quiet acts of kindness and self-forgetfulness, as seen in the lives of devoted mothers and siblings. Miller points out that our character and the love we embody are crucial in providing comfort, urging that our actions should reflect the beauty of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13. He encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of kindness and graciousness, making their presence a source of comfort to those around them. Ultimately, he calls for Christians to embody Christ's love, becoming a blessing in their homes and communities.
God Wants Servants
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 20:27MRK 10:45LUK 22:26JHN 15:16PHP 2:5K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that God desires true servants who are willing to lose their personal identities for the sake of the Gospel, rather than seeking recognition or status. He reflects on his own initial reluctance to leave a blessed church, realizing that God does not need us but calls us to serve selflessly. Yohannan warns against the dangers of Christians who fail to embrace servanthood, highlighting that true effectiveness in ministry comes from a heart committed to serving others, as exemplified by Jesus. He stresses that external attributes hold no value in God's eyes, and that genuine servanthood leads to transformative results in the lives of others. Ultimately, a surrendered life to God results in lasting fruit and impact in the world.
Selfishness Not True Religion
By Charles Finney0MAT 6:331CO 13:5PHP 2:3Charles Finney emphasizes that true religion is characterized by selflessness and benevolence, arguing that a supreme focus on one's own happiness is inconsistent with genuine faith. He clarifies that while it is acceptable to care for one's own well-being, it should not take precedence over the welfare of others or the glory of God. Finney asserts that true happiness is found in serving others and aligning with God's will, rather than in selfish pursuits. He warns that those who prioritize their own interests above all else are deceived about their spiritual state. Ultimately, he calls for a shift from self-centeredness to a life of love and service, reflecting the nature of God.
Divine Recompense
By C.H. Spurgeon0PRO 11:25GAL 6:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the principle of divine recompense, illustrating that by caring for others, particularly the poor and children, we invite God's care and blessings upon ourselves. He encourages believers to shift their focus from self to serving others, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from selflessness and love for Jesus. Spurgeon assures that as we pour out our resources to help those in need, God replenishes our souls, creating a cycle of blessing and refreshment. He highlights the promise that when we water others, we too will be watered, reinforcing the importance of generosity and compassion in the Christian life.
For Thy Sake
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 6:1JHN 4:34PHP 1:21K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the emptiness of living for oneself, illustrating how self-centeredness leads to unhappiness and spiritual decay. He warns against the false sense of fulfillment that comes from doing good deeds for personal glory rather than for God's sake. True joy and purpose are found when we prioritize God's will and live to please Him, as exemplified by Jesus' own mission. By shifting our focus from self to God, we can experience genuine happiness and fulfillment in our lives. The sermon challenges us to reflect on our motives and to commit to living for Christ's sake.
A Reason to Live
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 16:25MRK 10:45LUK 9:23ROM 12:22TI 3:2K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that Christians are called to live for a purpose beyond their own comfort, challenging the self-centered mindset prevalent in today's society. He illustrates this through the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, highlighting the danger of ignoring the needs of others for personal enjoyment. Yohannan warns that the Church has become too focused on self-gratification, forgetting the call to serve and sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel. He urges believers to adopt the mind of Christ, which involves self-denial and a commitment to reaching the lost. Ultimately, he calls for a radical shift in perspective, where life is seen as an opportunity to serve rather than to be served.
Moses Manifested the Spirit of Christ
By Zac Poonen0EXO 32:10NUM 14:12Zac Poonen emphasizes the testing of Moses by God, particularly in the construction of the tabernacle and in moments of potential self-promotion at the expense of the Israelites. Moses' unwavering commitment to God's people, even when offered personal glory, exemplifies the spirit of Christ, who sacrificed for the sake of others. Poonen challenges listeners to reflect on their own motivations and whether they align with God's pattern as revealed in Scripture. He highlights that true servants of God must prioritize the well-being of others over their own honor, a quality that is rare among believers today. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper spirit of intercession and selflessness in the lives of Christians.
Putting on Christ
By Charles Finney0MAT 5:16JHN 15:5ROM 13:142CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 4:24PHP 2:5COL 3:101PE 2:211JN 2:6Charles Finney emphasizes the command to 'put on the Lord Jesus Christ' as a call to imitate Christ's character and live selflessly for the well-being of others. He outlines the implications of this command, including the necessity of deep study of Christ's character, the importance of intention and belief in one's ability to embody Christ, and the universal obligation to obey this command for salvation. Finney warns of the consequences of both obeying and disobeying this command, highlighting that true obedience leads to peace, joy, and a representation of God's character, while disobedience results in hypocrisy and spiritual ruin. Ultimately, he calls for a genuine commitment to live as Christ would in every aspect of life.