Spiritual Education
Spiritual Education3
The Foundation of Spiritual Education
By T. Austin-Sparks0EZK 40:2MAT 11:29MRK 3:14LUK 9:23JHN 16:31ROM 8:292CO 4:6GAL 1:16EPH 4:20PHP 3:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of learning Christ rather than merely imitating Him, highlighting that true spiritual education involves a deep, subjective understanding of Christ's nature and our own limitations. He explains that the Holy Spirit's role is to reveal Christ in us and to conform us to His image, which requires recognizing the vast difference between Christ and ourselves. Sparks challenges the audience to confront their own inadequacies and the impossibility of achieving God's standards through their own efforts, urging them to embrace the transformative process of spiritual education in the School of Christ. He concludes by encouraging believers to yield to the Holy Spirit's work, which prepares them for a deeper manifestation of Christ in their lives.
Adam and the Law of Life
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 3:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of life as the central issue between God and humanity, illustrating that true life is governed by the 'law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus.' He contrasts Adam's failure to embody this law with Christ's perfect representation of it, highlighting that while Adam chose independence leading to death, Christ exemplified dependence on God, thus offering the way of life. Sparks explains that understanding life requires a deep knowledge of Christ, who is the embodiment of this law, and that spiritual education in this truth is a lifelong journey. He urges believers to actively choose life and remain in a state of continuous subjection to God, as this is the pathway to true fulfillment and eternal life.
Letters to Parents. No. 5.
By Charles Finney1DEU 6:7PRO 19:18PRO 23:13Charles Finney emphasizes the vital role of parents in cultivating affection and moral understanding among their children. He urges parents to encourage their children's inquiries and to provide truthful answers, while also being vigilant about the influences of external environments like schools. Finney stresses the importance of teaching children the law of God and the plan of salvation, alongside appropriate discipline. He highlights the necessity of demonstrating a joyful and sincere faith, as well as the power of prayer in parenting. Ultimately, he calls parents to rely on God's promises for their children and to actively engage in their spiritual upbringing.