F.J. Huegel emphasizes the profound truth of believers' participation in Christ's ascension, illustrating that through faith, Christians are not only partakers of His death and resurrection but also share in His heavenly position. He draws parallels between the believer's journey and the biblical accounts of spiritual awakening, likening it to a transition from a barren existence to the richness of life in Christ. Huegel encourages believers to claim their rightful place in the Heavenlies, asserting that this union with Christ is both a present reality and a future hope. He highlights the necessity of faith to access these spiritual blessings and the transformative power of living in the fullness of Christ's life. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding and appropriation of the believer's identity in Christ, urging the Church to rise and claim her glorious inheritance.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that God embodies wisdom, drawing from biblical texts to illustrate that true wisdom is found in Christ, who is both the power and wisdom of God. He argues that the concept of Eternal Wisdom is deeply rooted in Hebrew scripture, predating Greek philosophy, and is essential for understanding the nature of God and our existence. Tozer calls for a deeper engagement with this truth, urging believers to recognize their spiritual identity and the eternal purpose of their lives, rather than being consumed by material concerns. He challenges the audience to embrace their divine heritage and live in accordance with the wisdom that comes from God, which is revealed through Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to transformation and a deeper relationship with God.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the distinction between 'Israel after the flesh' and 'the Israel of God', highlighting that true Israel is not defined by physical lineage but by spiritual rebirth through Christ. He explains that while the Jewish nation has a historical significance, the true children of God are those born of the promise, reflecting the spiritual realities of Christ's travail. Sparks urges believers to recognize their identity in Christ, which transcends earthly ties and emphasizes the need for spiritual discernment and unity among God's people. He warns against losing distinctiveness and cohesion as the true Israel, which is marked by unmistakable features of Christ's character. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of the spiritual Israel, living in hope and unity as a reflection of God's eternal purpose.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transition from the earthly Israel to the spiritual Israel, highlighting that while both are united in principle, the new Israel is constituted on spiritual lines rather than temporal ones. He explains that the Letter to the Hebrews serves as a key document illustrating this transition, showcasing titles such as 'God's family', 'the house of God', and 'the heirs of God' as evidence of the change. Sparks stresses the importance of understanding our identity as part of God's family and the implications of being heirs to His promises, urging believers to recognize their spiritual inheritance and the significance of unity in the body of Christ. He warns against the dangers of division and the loss of inheritance, calling for a deeper understanding of God's purpose for His Church.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical distinction between the 'once-born' and 'twice-born' individuals, explaining that being born again is not merely a religious teaching but a vital truth that classifies humanity into two groups: those who are in Adam and those who are in Christ. He stresses that the new birth is essential for entering the Kingdom of God, as it transforms individuals from the flesh to the Spirit, leading to eternal life. Tozer warns against the dangers of unbelief, which stems from a lack of confidence in Christ as the true reporter of heavenly truths. He calls for self-examination regarding one's spiritual lineage and destiny, urging listeners to recognize the importance of their allegiance to either the kingdom of flesh or the kingdom of God.

Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of understanding our spiritual identity in Christ, asserting that believers are new creations and that their standing before God is based on Jesus' righteousness rather than their own actions. He explains that the enemy seeks to distort this truth, leading to feelings of condemnation and insecurity, but reminds us that God does not count our sins against us. Bickle encourages believers to present themselves to God as alive and accepted, rather than guilty and condemned, fostering a deeper intimacy with the Lord. He highlights that our confidence in God's acceptance is rooted in the finished work of Christ, which allows us to approach God without fear. Ultimately, he reassures that our identity as lovers of God, despite our struggles with sin, is what defines us.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of Jesus' deliberate choice of the twelve apostles as a foundational act for establishing a new Israel and a new Kingdom of God. He explains that this apprenticeship involves being with Christ to learn and grow spiritually, which is essential for effective ministry and service. The sermon highlights the spiritual constitution of the new Israel, characterized by a unique relationship with God as Father, and the necessity of the cross in realizing this new identity and purpose. Sparks encourages believers to embrace their spiritual inheritance and the transformative power of Christ in their lives, as they are called to be part of God's Kingdom. Ultimately, the message calls for a deeper understanding of our identity in Christ and the importance of spiritual growth through discipleship.

David Wilkerson emphasizes the concept of 'Ascension Life,' urging believers to understand that Jesus has prepared a place for them in a supernatural realm, where they can experience fullness and intimacy with Him right now, rather than waiting for a future event. He highlights the disciples' struggle to grasp this truth, paralleling it with the modern church's tendency to live in spiritual poverty, unaware of their heavenly position in Christ. Wilkerson calls for a radical shift in perspective, encouraging Christians to die to worldly desires and embrace their identity as seated with Christ in heavenly places, thus living in the power of the Holy Spirit. He stresses that this ascended life is not just a future hope but a present reality that transforms how believers engage with the world. Ultimately, he challenges the church to awaken to this truth and live in the fullness of Christ's glory.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the necessity of believers being fully identified with Christ as the risen Lord, highlighting the contrast between the allure of worldly institutions and the deep yearning for a genuine relationship with Christ. As the world moves toward its culmination, many will be drawn to man-made systems, leading to disappointment, while a faithful remnant will seek Christ as their true life. The sermon outlines three critical elements: the rise of Anti-christ, the imitation of life through man-made Christianity, and the quest for authentic truth in Christ. Sparks asserts that true spiritual strength and understanding come from Christ alone, who must be the life of our spirit, mind, and body, especially in times of adversity. Ultimately, he calls believers to cleave to the Lord, as the manifestation of Christ as our life is the ultimate goal.

John Gill emphasizes that believers are likened to 'lively stones' in 1 Peter 2:5, illustrating how they are transformed by God's grace from ordinary stones in the quarry to vital components of a spiritual house. This transformation signifies their role in the church, which serves as a dwelling place for God, distinct from the physical temples of the past. Gill highlights that all believers are part of a holy priesthood, called to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. The sermon underscores the importance of living in accordance with the Spirit and engaging in spiritual worship and service. Ultimately, it calls believers to recognize their identity and purpose within the body of Christ.

John Gill expounds on 1 Peter 2:9, emphasizing that believers are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a peculiar people. He explains that this identity is rooted in God's sovereign choice and grace, highlighting the spiritual kinship believers share with God and Christ. Gill illustrates how this calling from darkness into marvelous light obligates Christians to proclaim God's virtues and praises. He draws parallels to the Israelites, noting that just as they were chosen and set apart, so too are Christians called to live in holiness and righteousness. Ultimately, this sermon encourages believers to recognize their privileged status and responsibilities as God's chosen people.

F.B. Meyer addresses the issue of the Israelites' failure to separate themselves from surrounding nations, highlighting the consequences of intermarriage and the dilution of their holy identity. He reflects on Ezra's deep sorrow over this spiritual compromise, emphasizing that true communion with God brings both comfort and a burden for the world's grief. Meyer warns that as the end of the age approaches, the distinction between the lives of believers and the world is diminishing, urging Christians to maintain their separation and focus on God. He encourages believers to follow Christ's example of engaging with the world while keeping their hearts centered on the Father, even if it leads to social ostracism.

S. Lewis Johnson discusses Jacob's journey to Shechem, emphasizing the dangers of worldliness and its consequences. Jacob's decision to settle near the pagan city led to the tragic defilement of his daughter Dinah, illustrating the perils of compromising one's faith and values. The sermon highlights how Jacob's fear and deceit towards Esau resulted in a departure from his calling as a pilgrim of faith, ultimately leading to violence and moral failure within his family. Johnson warns against the allure of worldly values and the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as God's people. He calls for believers to seek a deeper relationship with God rather than succumbing to worldly ambitions and desires.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound transition from the old covenant represented by Mount Sinai to the new covenant embodied in Mount Zion, highlighting that believers have already arrived at this spiritual reality. He urges the congregation to recognize that Zion symbolizes the consummation of God's work through Christ, where they find their identity, victory, and fellowship in Him. Sparks stresses that Zion is not merely a physical location but a spiritual state where God's presence dwells among His people, and where they are called to live in the fullness of His perfect work. He challenges the listeners to embrace their citizenship in heaven and to understand the significance of being part of the body of Christ, which embodies the victory over death and sin. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper realization of what it means to be part of Zion, encouraging believers to live out their faith in the light of this truth.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of Jerusalem as a symbol of God's heavenly government, tracing its lineage from Melchizedek to the New Jerusalem in Revelation. He explains that the Church, represented as a city, is a spiritual entity that operates under divine governance, with certain saints sharing in Christ's authority. Sparks contrasts the true MYSTERY JERUSALEM with MYSTERY BABYLON, highlighting the hidden nature of God's city, which can only be understood through spiritual revelation. He underscores the importance of the Church's heavenly nature and its role in governing the world through prayer and spiritual union with Christ, despite earthly opposition. Ultimately, he calls believers to recognize their identity as citizens of this heavenly city, empowered to fulfill God's purposes through their connection with Him.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the dangers of compromise within Christianity, arguing that the Church's entanglement with the world leads to a loss of its true identity and purpose. He warns that such a union results in a hybrid entity that is both contemptible to the world and abominable to God. Tozer stresses that true Christianity is rooted in the new birth through the Holy Spirit, not in external affiliations or manipulations. He calls for a serious commitment to the Word of God, urging believers to recognize the spiritual essence of their faith. The sermon serves as a wake-up call for Christians to examine their relationship with the world and to uphold the distinctiveness of their faith.