Service to God
Service to God16
Rev. 22:3,5. the Serving and the Reigning
By Horatius Bonar0JHN 12:26ROM 12:1EPH 2:82TI 2:12HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 2:91JN 3:2REV 22:3REV 22:5Horatius Bonar emphasizes the dual role of the redeemed as both servants and kings, based on Revelation 22:3, 5. He explains that service to God begins at conversion and is a lifelong commitment, while the future reign signifies the ultimate victory and dominion believers will have in eternity. Bonar encourages believers to embrace their identity as servants of Christ, highlighting that true freedom and joy come from serving Him. He contrasts the current state of the Church with the glorious future awaiting the faithful, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and service. The sermon concludes with a call to live in anticipation of the eternal reign that awaits those who overcome.
As Unto the Lord
By J.R. Miller0EPH 5:22COL 3:23J.R. Miller emphasizes that serving the Lord encompasses all aspects of life, not just religious activities. He argues that mundane tasks, when performed with a heart dedicated to Christ, can be transformed into acts of worship. The sermon highlights the importance of doing our work well, being faithful in our duties, and serving others in everyday moments. Miller encourages believers to view their lives as continuous service to God, where even suffering can be a form of service if approached with the right attitude. Ultimately, the motive behind our actions is what makes them pleasing to Christ, as true service stems from a heart devoted to Him.
Angel Workers
By Andrew Bonar0GEN 32:21CH 21:16MAT 28:2LUK 22:43JHN 5:25ACT 8:26ACT 12:51TH 4:16HEB 1:14HEB 11:28Andrew Bonar shares a profound allegory of a gathering of angels who discuss their divine missions and the importance of their service to God and humanity. Each angel recounts their experiences, emphasizing themes of justice, faith, and the significance of even the smallest acts of service. Bonar is reminded to convey to his congregation the power of the blood of Christ, the importance of prayer, and the joy of serving God, culminating in the anticipation of Christ's return. The angels express their admiration for those who proclaim the Gospel and encourage believers to remain steadfast in their work for the Lord. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, urging the church to look forward to the glory of the coming Kingdom.
Inheritance the Inheritance of the Levites, or All in God and God in All
By A.B. Simpson0NUM 8:14JOS 13:33MAT 6:33JHN 15:8ROM 12:11CO 6:202CO 5:15PHP 4:19COL 3:171PE 2:9A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of the Levites' inheritance, illustrating that true consecration involves redemption, separation, dedication, and service to God. He explains that the Levites, as representatives of Christian service, were wholly dedicated to God, embodying the principles of living sacrifices and finding all resources in Him. Simpson encourages believers to recognize their identity as God's own, urging them to surrender unconditionally and joyfully to His will, while also serving Him in every aspect of life. He concludes that those who give up everything for God will receive even more in return, highlighting the importance of prioritizing God above all else.
Synopsis of the Books of the Bible - Numbers
By John Nelson Darby0NUM 1:1John Nelson Darby explores the Book of Numbers, emphasizing the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness as a metaphor for the Christian walk. He highlights God's order in numbering His people and arranging them around the tabernacle, symbolizing their relationship with Him. The sermon discusses the role of the Levites and the priesthood, illustrating how they serve as figures of the church and the necessity of Christ's priesthood for believers. Darby also reflects on the unfaithfulness of the people and God's grace, showing that despite their failures, He remains faithful and justifies them. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of our service to God, rooted in our communion with Christ.
Prepare.
By F.B. Meyer0F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of preparation in serving God, using the example of King Josiah's meticulously organized Passover celebration. He highlights that just as the priests and Levites underwent careful preparations, believers should also prepare their hearts and lives for God's service. Meyer encourages reliance on the Holy Spirit while also advocating for intentional planning and readiness for the tasks God may call us to. He reminds us that being clean and filled with the Holy Spirit is essential for being used by God. Ultimately, diligent study of the Word and earnest prayer are key to being prepared for every good work.
Joshua Chapter 12 Inheritance the Inheritance of the Levites, or All in God and God in All
By A.B. Simpson0NUM 8:14JOS 13:33MAT 6:33JHN 15:5ROM 12:11CO 6:202CO 5:15PHP 4:19COL 3:171PE 2:9A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of the Levites' inheritance in Joshua Chapter 12, illustrating that they represent the principles of redemption, separation, dedication, and service in the life of a believer. He explains that true consecration stems from recognizing our redemption through Christ's sacrifice, leading to a joyful and unconditional surrender to God. The Levites' role as servants of the sanctuary symbolizes our call to serve God in all aspects of life, finding our resources and fulfillment in Him alone. Simpson encourages believers to embrace a life where God is both our inheritance and the essence of all we do, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with Him.
The Nature and Motive of Spiritual Ascendency
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 23:17PSA 8:6PSA 24:3PSA 122:2ACT 20:24EPH 4:8PHP 3:14HEB 3:7HEB 10:35REV 14:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of spiritual ascendency, urging believers to cultivate a deep desire for spiritual elevation akin to the Israelites' longing for Zion. He challenges the audience to examine their motives for spiritual ambition, highlighting that true ascendency is rooted in service to God and others rather than self-interest. Sparks warns against the 'malady of not wanting,' which can hinder spiritual growth, and stresses the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of trials. He illustrates that spiritual ascendency is not merely a personal achievement but a means to serve and uplift the community of believers. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed commitment to spiritual aspirations that glorify God and fulfill His purposes.
Here Am I - Send Me
By Zac Poonen0ISA 6:8MAT 13:15JHN 20:29ACT 13:1Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of having a vision of God's holiness and grace as illustrated in Isaiah 6, where Isaiah responds to God's call with 'Here am I. Send me.' He stresses that true service to God must come from being sent by Him, rather than from human initiative, and that the Holy Spirit guides us today in a similar way. Poonen highlights that while the call may be difficult, it is essential for producing lasting fruit in God's kingdom. He encourages believers to seek God's voice in their hearts and to understand their commission, even when it may seem challenging or unfruitful.
Our Daily Homily - Nehemiah
By F.B. Meyer0NEH 1:11NEH 2:4NEH 3:28NEH 4:14NEH 5:15NEH 6:3NEH 8:10NEH 9:12NEH 10:39NEH 13:14F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of Nehemiah's role as a cupbearer, illustrating how God can use humble individuals for great purposes. Nehemiah's heartfelt prayers and tears for Jerusalem led him to take action, demonstrating that true faith is accompanied by a willingness to serve. Meyer encourages believers to remember the Lord in all circumstances and to begin their service in their own neighborhoods, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility in God's work. He also stresses the need for separation from worldly influences and the joy of the Lord as a source of strength. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a life fully surrendered to God, echoing Nehemiah's desire to be remembered for his faithful service.
Luke 5:1
By Chuck Smith0LUK 5:4Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of living in the Spirit realm and maintaining close contact with Jesus, which begins with surrendering control of one's life. He illustrates how obedience to God's word can lead to unexpected results, as seen in Peter's fishing experience. Smith encourages believers to launch out into deeper waters of service, prayer, and Bible study, rather than remaining in overfished shores. He highlights the necessity of using what we have while depending on God for success, and he calls for an attitude of expectancy in our service to God.
Variety in the Service Offered to God
By Charles Finney0ISA 56:4Charles Finney emphasizes the variety of service offered to God, categorizing believers into three classes: bond-servants motivated by fear, mercenaries seeking reward, and true servants who serve out of love for God. He explains that the first two classes lack genuine joy and connection to God, as their service is driven by self-interest rather than a desire to please Him. In contrast, true servants are characterized by their love for God and others, leading to a spontaneous and fulfilling relationship with Him. Finney urges listeners to reflect on their motivations for serving God and to strive for a relationship rooted in love rather than fear or self-gain.
The Silver and Gold He Had Dedicated
By F.B. Meyer02SA 8:11EPH 2:19HEB 7:25F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of David's dedication of silver and gold for the temple, illustrating how our contributions, even if indirect, are recognized by God. He highlights that while David could not build the temple himself, his preparations enabled Solomon to complete the work, showing that our efforts can benefit future generations. Meyer draws parallels between David's spoils from victory and how we can use our own struggles and failures to aid others in their spiritual journeys. He also points out the prophetic nature of the temple, indicating that people from all nations will contribute to the spiritual temple of the Church, reflecting God's inclusive plan for salvation.
Levitical Priesthood
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 19:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Levitical priesthood, illustrating that all of God's people are called to serve as a holy nation and a royal priesthood. He explains that the essence of this service is to bring God and man together, preserving the ground of God's presence among His people. Sparks highlights that true service involves livingness, spiritual warfare, and the embodiment of God's full thought for His people, which is often neglected. He challenges believers to reflect on their own priestly service and to ensure that their lives are marked by the presence of God. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of spiritual discernment and commitment to God's highest interests.
Not What We Could be... but What We Are
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 10:42LUK 12:48ROM 12:11CO 15:58GAL 6:9EPH 2:10PHP 2:12COL 3:23JAS 1:221PE 4:10C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of being active in our faith rather than merely possessing knowledge or potential. He points out that many who are capable often do not engage in service, while those with less experience fervently contribute. Spurgeon urges believers to focus on their current actions for the Lord rather than what they could achieve if they chose to. He highlights that true reward comes from humble acts of service, like offering a cup of cold water, rather than from unfulfilled potential. The call is to excel in consecration, self-denial, and earnestness in our spiritual lives.
Reservoir of Love
By D.L. Moody0MAT 5:44JHN 13:34ROM 5:51CO 13:1GAL 5:22EPH 4:2COL 3:14TIT 2:11PE 4:81JN 4:8D.L. Moody emphasizes the paramount importance of love in the Christian life, asserting that while human love is flawed and limited, Divine love is perfect and boundless, flowing from the Holy Spirit. He argues that true service to God cannot occur without love, as it is the essential fruit of the Spirit and the only acceptable offering in God's work. Moody warns against the dangers of being sound in faith yet lacking in love and patience, highlighting that irritability and impatience can hinder one's ability to serve effectively. He encourages believers to cultivate a love that transcends personal grievances and to remember the transformative power of God's love in their hearts. Ultimately, Moody calls for a return to the love that characterizes the heart of a true follower of Christ.