Separation
In the Bible, separation often carries both physical and spiritual connotations, reflecting the need for distinctiveness and holiness among God’s people. The concept of separation is most prominently illustrated in the Old Testament, where the Israelites were commanded to maintain their identity as a holy nation set apart for God (Exodus 19:6). This separation included dietary laws, rituals, and moral conduct that distinguished them from surrounding nations (Leviticus 20:24-26). The call to separation is not only about physical distance but also about spiritual fidelity, as seen in passages like 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, where believers are urged not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers, emphasizing the importance of aligning with God’s values.In the New Testament, separation takes on a more internal and relational focus, urging believers to live in a manner that reflects their new identity in Christ. This can lead to relational separation from sin and worldly influences (Romans 12:2) while simultaneously fostering a community that embodies love and holiness (1 Peter 2:9-10). The idea of separation ultimately serves to reflect God’s holiness and to enable His people to fulfill their mission in the world, highlighting the balance between being set apart and being engaged in outreach. Thus, biblical separation is a call to live distinctly as representatives of God's kingdom while still reaching out to others with His love and grace.
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"The Separated Life"
By A.W. Tozer02CO 6:14A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of living a separated life for Christians, drawing from Paul's admonitions in 2 Corinthians. He highlights that true fellowship cannot exist between believers and unbelievers, as they are fundamentally incompatible in their values and directions. Tozer illustrates this separation through biblical examples, such as Noah and Lot, stressing that without it, religious practices become meaningless and powerless. He warns against being unequally yoked in relationships and business, urging believers to maintain their holiness and dedication to God. Ultimately, Tozer reassures that God promises to be a Father to those who heed His call to separation.
A Letter on Separation
By John Nelson Darby0MAT 18:20ROM 16:171CO 11:192CO 6:14GAL 1:6EPH 4:31TH 5:21HEB 10:251JN 2:19REV 18:4John Nelson Darby emphasizes the critical nature of separation within the church, arguing that leaving an assembly that falsely claims to represent the church is necessary to maintain the truth of God's testimony. He warns against the dangers of remaining in a body that does not reflect the Spirit of God, as it can lead to a loss of blessing and spiritual integrity. Darby acknowledges the complexity of situations where evil persists within a church, stressing that true unity must not be a cover for wrongdoing. He concludes that while separation may be painful, it is sometimes essential for spiritual health and obedience to God. Ultimately, he encourages prayer for those who remain in such assemblies, hoping for their restoration through God's grace.
The Law of Separation
By Jim Cymbala1.6K34:59EZR 9:3NEH 9:2ISA 56:7JER 32:17MAT 21:132CO 6:17In this sermon, the pastor shares a personal experience of God speaking to him on a boat in Florida, promising to supply everything the church and his family would need if they led the people to pray and call on God. The pastor emphasizes the importance of maintaining a house of prayer for all nations and warns against compromising with sinful practices. He gives examples of people being trapped by various temptations and urges the congregation to say no to anything that leads them away from God's light. The pastor also references the dispersion of the Jewish people and the consequences they faced for turning away from God's directions.
Separated From Lot
By F.B. Meyer0GEN 13:9PSA 4:3PSA 54:4PSA 55:15MIC 7:8F.B. Meyer emphasizes the necessity of separation from worldly influences, using the story of Abraham and Lot to illustrate how God can transform unworthy materials into vessels of His glory. He highlights that true faith requires a conscious decision to distance oneself from distractions and influences that hinder spiritual growth. Meyer encourages believers to trust in God's provision and guidance, asserting that separation is essential for a deeper relationship with God. He reminds us that God can work through our weaknesses and failures, and that His grace is sufficient to lead us to a life of faith and power. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to spiritual integrity and reliance on God's promises.
Separation and Strength; a Lesson From the Life of Sampson
By A.B. Simpson0JDG 13:12CO 6:17A.B. Simpson explores the life of Samson as a cautionary tale about the dangers of mingling divine strength with human weakness. He emphasizes the importance of separation from worldly influences, as Samson's downfall stemmed from his disobedience and indulgence in sinful relationships. Despite his extraordinary gifts, Samson's failure to remain consecrated to God led to his tragic end, illustrating how sin can hinder God's purposes in our lives. Ultimately, Simpson calls for a life of total dedication to God, highlighting that true strength comes from being wholly separated for His service. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the redemptive power of repentance and the potential for restoration even after failure.
Light Separated From Darkness
By Erlo Stegen8531:06:49GEN 1:1GEN 1:4ISA 60:19MAT 4:19JHN 12:35In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the importance of light and darkness in the Bible. He references the creation story in Genesis, where God separates light from darkness and declares it good. He then moves on to a passage in John where Jesus speaks about the light being among the people for a little while longer. The preacher shares a personal testimony of a bridegroom who had a similar experience to the bride, where God revealed to him the woman he was meant to marry. The sermon concludes with a discussion about the consequences of leaving the faith and the importance of remaining faithful to God.
Notes (From the June 1888 Sword and Trowel)
By C.H. Spurgeon02CO 6:17HEB 10:24C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the Baptist Union's attempts to reconcile and mend relationships, expressing skepticism about its effectiveness and the clarity of its resolutions. He shares his decision to separate from the Union, feeling that true reform is unattainable and emphasizing the importance of personal conviction in such matters. Spurgeon acknowledges the need for fellowship among like-minded believers who have also chosen to step away, suggesting that any new community should arise organically rather than through forced organization. He emphasizes the value of unity and support among believers while recognizing the potential challenges of isolation in church life.
Ezekiel 42:20
By Chuck Smith0EZK 42:20MAT 5:14ROM 12:21CO 3:162CO 6:17GAL 5:19HEB 12:141PE 2:91JN 2:15REV 11:1Chuck Smith discusses the significance of the wall of separation in Ezekiel 42:20, emphasizing God's desire to distinguish the holy from the profane. He highlights the challenges of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem, particularly the obstacles posed by the Dome of the Rock Mosque, and suggests that new evidence may indicate the original site of Solomon's temple lies to the north. Smith draws parallels to the believer's life, urging Christians to build a wall of separation from worldly influences, as our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. He acknowledges the difficulty of this task, as it involves both clear moral boundaries and personal convictions.
Life of Separation
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:19:17MAT 16:16REV 1:9REV 1:12REV 1:20In this sermon, the speaker discusses the vision given to the Apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. John's heart was still with the people of the seven cities in Asia, and he wondered who would take care of them. Suddenly, he heard a voice like a trumpet and turned back to see a heavenly vision. He saw seven golden lampstands, representing the seven cities, and in the midst of them stood a figure resembling the Son of Man. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly vision and being obedient to it, just as Peter and Paul also received visions. The vision John saw depicted a universal man, with the head in heaven and the body covering the earth, symbolizing all followers of Jesus. The vision also led John to encounter a man named Ananias, who opened his eyes and filled him with the Holy Spirit, welcoming him into the fellowship of the local church.
Biblical Seperation
By Bill McLeod2.6K46:21PSA 119:104MAT 6:33ROM 12:22CO 6:41TH 5:221PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a powerful experience of being moved by the presence of God during a community service. They express their deep emotions and desire to live a life that pleases God. The speaker also shares about a ministry that is working in 14 countries and training their own workers. They emphasize the need for revival in churches and the importance of aligning with God's plans. The sermon includes references to the book of Ezra and highlights the impact of a pastor's preaching on the congregation.
Rev. 14:3. the Church Dwelling Alone
By Horatius Bonar0NUM 23:9DEU 33:28PSA 1:1ECC 4:102CO 6:17HEB 7:26JAS 1:27JUD 1:1REV 14:3Horatius Bonar emphasizes the Church's unique position in the world, drawing parallels between Israel's separation and the Church's calling to dwell alone. He explains that the Church is redeemed from the earth and from among men to live a life distinct from worldly influences, relying solely on God for help, riches, wisdom, pleasures, and society. Bonar highlights that true joy and fulfillment come from a relationship with God rather than from the world's offerings. He urges believers to embrace their identity as a separate people, finding strength and security in their divine calling. The message encourages Christians to resist worldly temptations and to dwell in the presence of God.
Separated Unto God
By Phil Beach Jr.191:00:28DEU 6:5PRO 3:7MAT 5:14ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:8HEB 12:1JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 1:5Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the urgent call for believers to separate themselves from compromise and darkness, urging the church to live as children of light. He draws parallels from the life of Daniel, highlighting the necessity of passing tests of purity, worship, and adherence to God's Word to maintain an open heaven. The preacher warns against the dangers of justifying sin and compromise, reminding the congregation that true obedience to God is essential for spiritual vitality. He stresses that the church must not conform to the practices of the world but instead reflect God's holiness and character. Ultimately, Beach calls for a heartfelt response to God's Word, seeking transformation and a deeper commitment to living righteously.
The Seed of Israel Separated Themselves.
By F.B. Meyer0LEV 20:24NEH 9:2F.B. Meyer emphasizes the necessity of separation in the life of believers, drawing parallels from the creation story where God distinguished light from darkness and land from sea. He highlights that God's call to holiness involves a deliberate separation from the world, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like Abraham and the Israelites. Meyer urges Christians to cleanse themselves from impurities and to pursue a life that reflects their commitment to Christ, encouraging them to live in a way that honors their divine calling. The sermon calls for a conscious effort to follow Christ and to embody His teachings in every aspect of life.
Separated From Our Loved Ones!
By Keith Daniel9601:21:17ISA 55:6ISA 66:24MIC 7:6MAT 10:34MRK 9:44LUK 12:51LUK 14:26In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of seeking God's mercy and salvation. He shares personal experiences and illustrations of people who died suddenly, emphasizing the uncertainty of life and the need to make a choice for eternity. The preacher warns against delaying the decision to follow God, citing the verse "Seek ye the Lord while he may be found." He also highlights the consequences of not choosing God, referencing the story of the rich man and Lazarus in the Bible. The sermon concludes with a call to be watchful and prepared for the return of Christ, as described in various biblical passages.