Spiritual Journey
Spiritual Journey8
The Creation and Consecration of the Ark
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 30:25PSA 84:5JHN 1:4JHN 3:7JHN 6:38JHN 7:46JHN 10:10ROM 12:12CO 5:171JN 4:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Ark of the Covenant as a representation of the greatness and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, illustrating how the ark's journey reflects the spiritual journey of God's people. He explains that just as the ark moved inwardly and deeper into the life of God's people, so too must Jesus move from being an objective reality to a subjective experience in the lives of believers. Sparks highlights that true Christian life begins with the new creation in Christ, which is entirely a work of God, and that believers must recognize their heavenly citizenship and the eternal life they receive through Him. He concludes by stressing the importance of consecration, where the blood and oil symbolize atonement and the Holy Spirit's life, affirming that believers are wholly for God.
Numbers 13:26
By Chuck Smith0GEN 12:7EXO 3:8NUM 13:30PSA 23:5JHN 10:10ROM 8:371CO 10:132CO 5:7PHP 4:19HEB 4:1Chuck Smith discusses the significance of Canaan as the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, emphasizing that it represents liberty, rest, and abundance for believers. He contrasts the legitimate wilderness experience, which teaches trust in God, with the illegitimate wilderness experience marked by rebellion and discontent. The sermon highlights the crisis at Kadesh Barnea, where the majority of spies reported fear and doubt, while the faithful two saw God's promise as attainable. Smith encourages listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the choices they make in faith.
Two Great Movements in the Old Testament
By Zac Poonen0EXO 12:132SA 24:24MAT 16:24ROM 12:11CO 10:1GAL 5:13EPH 4:16HEB 11:101PE 2:5REV 21:2Zac Poonen discusses two significant movements in the Old Testament: the journey from Egypt to Canaan, representing an individual's liberation from sin and a victorious life through Christ, and the transition from Babylon to Jerusalem, symbolizing the corporate life of the Church. He emphasizes that Babylon represents a commercial mindset focused on personal gain, which can exist even within the best denominations, while Jerusalem embodies a spirit of sacrifice and selflessness. Poonen warns that true membership in the Body of Christ requires an inward transformation and a commitment to God's glory, rather than merely leaving dead denominations. He stresses the importance of gathering believers who understand the principle of sacrifice to avoid creating another lifeless system.
The History of the Ark
By T. Austin-Sparks0HEB 1:1T. Austin-Sparks explores the significance of the Ark of the Testimony as a representation of Jesus Christ, tracing its journey from the formation of Israel at Mount Sinai to its resting place in the house of God. He emphasizes that the ark's varied history reflects the spiritual journey believers must undertake, moving from an objective understanding of Christ to a subjective experience of His reality in their lives. Sparks highlights that the true testimony of Jesus is revealed through the Holy Spirit, and that spiritual growth requires personal experience rather than mere intellectual knowledge. He warns against separating the objective nature of Christ from the spiritual reality, as this leads to misunderstanding and trouble. Ultimately, he calls for believers to embrace the Holy Spirit's work in making Christ real within them.
Letters: Mr. William Bonar His Brother (1)
By Andrew Bonar0PSA 48:12ISA 52:1MAT 5:14JHN 7:37HEB 13:8Andrew Bonar writes to his brother William, encouraging him to explore Jerusalem and its significant sites, such as the Mount of Olives and the Pool of Siloam, while reflecting on the spiritual truths they represent. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with the history and presence of Jesus in these holy places, suggesting that such a journey can be healing for the soul. Bonar also humorously notes the inaccuracies in a map of Jerusalem, while expressing his hope that William will encounter the divine as he wanders through these sacred locations.
Then Ahimaaz Ran by the Way of the Plain, and Overran Cushi
By C.H. Spurgeon0ISA 40:31MAT 11:28JHN 14:6PHP 3:14C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that the path we choose in our spiritual journey is as important as the speed at which we run. He contrasts the exhausting uphill struggles of self-reliance with the ease of running the 'plain way' of faith in Christ, which offers rest and strength. Spurgeon encourages believers to trust in God's promises and approach Him directly in prayer, rather than seeking help through worldly means. He reminds us that the way of holiness is accessible to all, and that true success in our spiritual race comes from reliance on Jesus. Ultimately, he calls for earnestness in our pursuit of God, urging us to focus on the prize of our high calling in Christ.
From Babylon to Jerusalem - (Ezra) ch.1 & 2
By Zac Poonen2.7K59:44EZR 1:1Zac Poonen explores the transition of God's people from Babylon to Jerusalem as a significant spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding the new covenant in this movement. He draws parallels between the exodus from Egypt and the return from Babylon, highlighting that while the former was marked by miraculous signs, the latter is characterized by God's quiet sovereignty over circumstances and hearts. Poonen stresses that true deliverance from spiritual Babylon requires a commitment to the new covenant, which is essential for becoming part of the body of Christ. He encourages believers to recognize their role in building God's house, whether by going to Jerusalem or supporting those who do, and underscores that God values those who sacrifice for His purpose. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that God can move even the hearts of kings to fulfill His plans.
To the Travellers in the Lord's Way
By George Fox0PSA 23:1ISA 58:11JHN 6:35George Fox encourages believers to receive their spiritual nourishment directly from God, emphasizing the importance of relying on the Father of Life for strength and guidance on their spiritual journey. He assures that by waiting in the pure Spirit, they will witness God's promises fulfilled and experience daily refreshment from the Lord. Fox highlights the eternal nature of God's presence, manifesting in His children, and reassures them of His protective and guiding power as they travel towards the heavenly Jerusalem, where they will find everlasting joy and peace.