Spiritual Conflict
Spiritual Conflict6
In Christ 2 Corinthians 12
By John Nelson Darby02CO 12:2John Nelson Darby expounds on 2 Corinthians 12, illustrating the profound contrast between the heights of spiritual experience and the depths of human depravity. He emphasizes that while believers can experience the glory of being 'in Christ,' they must also confront the reality of their flesh, which remains a hindrance. Darby highlights Paul's unique experience of being caught up to the third heaven, juxtaposed with the struggles of the Corinthian church, showcasing the necessity of grace to navigate the spiritual conflict. He asserts that true power and holiness come from recognizing our weakness and dependence on Christ, who enables us to live righteously. Ultimately, Darby encourages believers to glory in their position in Christ while remaining humble about their human frailty.
Joshua 5
By John Nelson Darby0EXO 15:13MAT 11:28ROM 8:1GAL 1:4EPH 6:12COL 3:3HEB 9:26John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of Israel's journey from Egypt to Canaan as a metaphor for the Christian experience, highlighting the transition from bondage to freedom through Christ. He explains that while believers are delivered from judgment through the blood of Christ, they must also engage in spiritual conflict in Canaan, representing the heavenly places. Darby stresses the importance of recognizing our identity in Christ, being dead to sin and alive in Him, and the necessity of self-judgment and reliance on the Holy Spirit for spiritual growth. He illustrates that true nourishment comes from Christ, the 'old corn of the land,' as believers are called to live in the reality of their heavenly position while navigating the challenges of the world. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to holiness and the acknowledgment of Christ's lordship in every aspect of life.
Power for Conflict
By John Nelson Darby0JOS 1:9PSA 23:4ISA 41:10JHN 16:33ROM 8:371CO 15:572CO 12:9EPH 6:12PHP 4:13HEB 12:1John Nelson Darby emphasizes the power of Christ in leading believers through spiritual conflicts, drawing parallels between the journey of the Israelites in Joshua and the Christian life today. He explains that just as the Israelites faced challenges in taking possession of Canaan, Christians must rely on the Spirit's energy to overcome spiritual wickedness. The sermon highlights the importance of following Christ, who goes before us in our struggles, and the necessity of recognizing our dependence on God. Darby illustrates that true victory comes not from our strength but from the divine power of Christ, who enables us to navigate through life's challenges. He encourages believers to trust in God's guidance and to embrace the spiritual energy available to them.
The Sovereignty of the Lord in the Spiritual Conflict
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 2:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the sovereignty of the Lord amidst spiritual conflict, illustrating how the forces of evil oppose God's purpose, particularly through the rejection of Christ and His followers. He highlights the historical antagonism towards God's anointed, as seen in the lives of figures like Joseph and Moses, culminating in Stephen's martyrdom, which serves as a catalyst for the spread of the Gospel. Sparks asserts that true worship and the house of God are spiritual, transcending physical structures, and that the Holy Spirit's work is vital for overcoming the flesh and achieving spiritual fruitfulness. He encourages believers to recognize the Lordship of Christ and to live under the governance of the Holy Spirit, which leads to victory over spiritual opposition. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper experience of God's sovereignty in the lives of believers.
Blurred Goals and Spiritual Impediments
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 6:24ROM 12:22CO 6:14GAL 5:17EPH 4:14PHP 3:19COL 3:2HEB 12:1JAS 1:81JN 2:15A.W. Tozer addresses the troubling state of evangelicalism, likening it to a patient with an undiagnosed illness. He identifies a spiritual disorder characterized by dual orientation, where individuals struggle to align their life purpose with their faith. This internal conflict leads to a disconnection between their beliefs and actions, resulting in a divided focus between God and worldly interests. Tozer emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of this spiritual malaise, as many are caught between two conflicting values, ultimately hindering their spiritual growth and effectiveness.
The Church as a Functioning Body
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 4:20T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the church's role as a functioning body centered on worship, which he describes as the supreme function of creation. He warns of Satan's ambition to receive worship, particularly through the Antichrist, and highlights the need for the church to intensify its worship in the face of this opposition. Sparks explains that true worship arises from a state of spiritual union with God, and it involves conflict as the church resists worldly influences that detract from God's rights. He concludes that genuine worship is not merely about outward expressions but is rooted in a life that reflects Christ, who alone satisfies God's requirements. The church's ultimate purpose is to glorify God by making room for Christ in their lives.