Spiritual Life
In biblical terms, "spiritual life" refers to the vital connection and relationship that believers have with God through the Holy Spirit. It encompasses the transformative experience of being born again (John 3:3) and living in accordance with God’s will, which is often depicted as a life directed by the Spirit rather than by the flesh. The Apostle Paul, particularly in Romans 8, contrasts the life of the Spirit with a life focused on earthly, carnal desires. He emphasizes that those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God, signifying that spiritual life is marked by guidance, empowerment, and an intimate relationship with the divine (Romans 8:14).Spiritual life also involves the cultivation of virtues such as love, joy, peace, patience, and self-control, collectively known as the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This life is described as one of continual growth and maturity in faith, characterized by the practice of spiritual disciplines such as prayer, scripture reading, and fellowship with other believers (1 Timothy 4:7-8). Ultimately, spiritual life in the Bible signifies not just an individual experience but a communal and dynamic journey toward holiness and Christlikeness, as believers seek to reflect the character of Christ in their daily lives.
Spiritual Life31
Of the Life of God.
By John Gill0DEU 30:20PSA 36:9JER 10:10JHN 5:26JHN 10:28ACT 17:25ROM 8:2EPH 4:18JAS 2:261JN 5:20John Gill expounds on the life of God, emphasizing that God's essence is life itself, distinct from all created beings. He explains that while creatures exhibit various forms of life, God's life is self-sustaining, eternal, and independent, making Him the ultimate source of life for all creation. Gill highlights that God's life is not only essential but also efficient, as He grants life to all beings, from plants to humans, and especially imparts spiritual life to the regenerated. He contrasts the living God with lifeless idols, affirming that true life is found only in God, who is eternal and immutable. Ultimately, Gill encourages believers to recognize their spiritual life as a reflection of God's divine nature, which is perfect and everlasting.
Without Feeling?
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 100:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of emotions in the Christian faith, arguing that true worship involves heartfelt feelings. He reflects on his own joyful conversion experience and challenges the notion that feelings should be excluded from spiritual life. Tozer warns against being a 'feelingless people,' asserting that a lack of emotional engagement in worship indicates spiritual deadness. He encourages believers to embrace their emotions as a vital part of their relationship with God, rather than dismissing them.
Alive or Dead—which?
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 28:19JHN 3:36JHN 14:6ROM 8:12CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:1COL 3:3JAS 5:201JN 5:12C.H. Spurgeon addresses the distinction between spiritual life and death, emphasizing that true life is found in having faith in Jesus Christ. He reassures believers who may doubt their spiritual state, reminding them that possessing Christ is evidence of eternal life, while those without Him are spiritually dead, regardless of their outward morality. Spurgeon encourages the living to remain untainted by the dead and to actively share the message of salvation, urging them to pray for and reach out to those who are spiritually lost. He concludes with a call to action for Christians to live out their faith boldly in a world filled with spiritual death.
Laws of the Spiritual Life #1 - the Law of Wholeheartedness
By Zac Poonen3.7K48:55JER 29:13MAT 6:33LUK 14:33REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of putting Jesus Christ above all else in our lives. He warns against allowing other things, such as studies, relationships, money, or ambitions, to become more important than our relationship with God. The speaker highlights the tragic consequences of prioritizing anything above Jesus, leading to a life of backsliding and producing more backsliders. He references Revelation 3:18, where Jesus advises believers to "buy" certain things from Him, emphasizing that there are aspects of the Christian life that require sacrifice and commitment. The speaker encourages listeners, especially those going into Christian work, to choose to live according to God's principles and not waste their lives pursuing worldly desires.
Laws of the Spiritual Life #4 - the Law of Reaping
By Zac Poonen2.9K49:31PRO 25:2LUK 2:46In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking the preaching of the word of God seriously. He believes that every sermon he has ever preached will be revealed on a videotape in the future, not just the words spoken, but also the motives of the preacher's heart. The preacher references Ecclesiastes 8:11, explaining that the delay in punishment for evil deeds leads people to continue in sin. He encourages believers to have rehearsals of the judgment day, examining their lives and repenting of any sins, so that they may be prepared for that day.
Moved by Jesus
By Stewart Ruch32022:09PSA 37:4MAT 6:33MAT 9:36ACT 1:14ROM 12:2EPH 4:12JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a personal connection with God. He highlights the need for individuals to be moved by Jesus' movement for them, rather than just externally pushed or compelled. The speaker shares about a conference with Iranian leaders where preaching Jesus is illegal, which prompts reflection on how we think about our time, life, and resources. The sermon also introduces a five-part series on equipping everyone for transformation, with a focus on a new life in Christ. The passage in Matthew 9 is referenced, highlighting Jesus' compassion and his movement towards those who are far from him.
I Am the Resurrection, and the Life
By Octavius Winslow0JHN 10:10JHN 11:25ROM 6:4GAL 2:20EPH 2:1Octavius Winslow emphasizes that true spiritual life is rooted in the death of the self and the law, as believers must first die to their own efforts for salvation before they can fully embrace Christ as their source of life. He explains that through Christ's resurrection, believers are quickened to new life, highlighting the necessity of being born of the Spirit to understand this profound truth. Winslow calls attention to the divine nature of Jesus, who is essential life itself, capable of resurrecting souls from spiritual death. He urges listeners to recognize the power of Christ and to crown Him as Lord of all, as He is the source of all life. The sermon invites reflection on the transformative process of dying to self and living through Christ.
Abraham's Seed
By T. Austin-Sparks0NUM 23:9ACT 2:24ACT 7:2ACT 7:51ROM 9:42CO 1:9GAL 3:7COL 2:12T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transformative significance of Pentecost, marking the beginning of a new spiritual era governed by the Holy Spirit. He contrasts the spiritual life that God desires with established religious practices, urging believers to heed the voice of the Spirit rather than conforming to worldly religious norms. Sparks highlights Abraham's role as a model for spiritual lineage, asserting that true children of Abraham are those who are spiritually alive and governed by the Spirit, not merely by natural descent. He stresses that the promise of God is linked to a spiritual seed, exemplified by Isaac, and that believers are called to live in the power of resurrection, which is foundational to their identity in Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a community of believers who are distinctively spiritual, marked by a heart circumcised for God, and responsive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
God's Message to Dead Men
By Major Ian Thomas858:21JHN 3:16ROM 5:102CO 5:142CO 13:5GAL 2:20EPH 2:1COL 1:27TIT 3:51PE 1:31JN 5:12Major Ian Thomas delivers a powerful sermon titled 'God's Message to Dead Men,' emphasizing that all humanity is spiritually dead due to Adam's sin, and that Christ's death was necessary to restore life to those who accept Him. He explains that the gospel is not merely about forgiveness but about receiving the very life of Christ through the Holy Spirit, transforming believers from death to life. Thomas highlights the importance of recognizing our spiritual condition and the necessity of faith in Christ for true salvation, illustrating this with the story of Cornelius, a good man who needed to be saved. The sermon calls for self-examination and a genuine relationship with Christ, urging listeners to embrace the life that comes from Him.
Moved by Transformation
By Stewart Ruch33619:14PSA 119:105PRO 3:5MAT 6:33ACT 2:422TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses the four ways that the earliest Christians embraced a life of transformation. These four ways are fully scriptural, fully sacramental, full of the Holy Spirit, and the fullness of salvation. The speaker encourages the audience to reflect on which of these four areas Jesus may be inviting them to grow in. The sermon emphasizes the importance of the scriptures in catalyzing transformation and calls for a singular and passionate devotion to these four aspects of the Christian life.
The Resurrection or Spiritual Body
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 3:6JHN 6:57T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the life of a child of God is fundamentally spiritual, originating from the Spirit and sustained by spiritual nourishment through Christ. He explains that while our physical bodies are subject to corruption, the resurrection body will be spiritual and free from the limitations of our current existence. Sparks highlights the distinction between the soul and spirit, asserting that true spirituality comes from Christ within, and that resurrection signifies a transformative experience beyond mere physicality. He warns against the deception of Satan regarding resurrection and underscores the importance of understanding the power of Christ's resurrection in the believer's life. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper recognition of the spiritual body that awaits believers, which is a culmination of their spiritual life in Christ.
Spiritual Life - a Humble Spirit
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:06:06PSA 51:10ISA 57:15EZK 36:26MAT 8:22LUK 9:55JHN 3:6EPH 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the condition of our spirit in our spiritual life. He asks the audience to reflect on the state of their spirit, whether it is filled with bitterness, unforgiveness, jealousy, or bondage. He encourages them to seek a spirit of love, courage, sound mind, wisdom, and humility. The speaker also highlights the significance of having a right spirit before entering into conferences or gatherings, as it determines our ability to receive grace and overcome the attacks of the enemy.
Deuteronomy 30:11
By Chuck Smith0DEU 30:11Chuck Smith emphasizes the closeness of God, reminding us that He is not distant but intimately present in our lives. He explains that spiritual life comes from knowing, loving, and walking with God, while spiritual death results from rebellion and disobedience. God's commandments are accessible and clear, not hidden in mysticism, and they call us to love Him and obey His voice. Smith reassures that even in our failures, God remains near, and salvation is always within reach for those who confess and believe. The message encourages believers to recognize God's constant presence and the simplicity of His call to relationship.
Laws of the Spiritual Life #3 - the Law of Faith
By Zac Poonen2.8K50:58MAT 9:27EPH 4:32In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the futility of fighting for material wealth. He compares life to a game of Monopoly, where people are constantly striving for money and property, but ultimately, it all becomes worthless when God ends the game. The preacher encourages believers to focus on their faith in God rather than their abilities or circumstances. He reminds them that God can use anyone, regardless of their limitations, to accomplish great things. The sermon also highlights the importance of having faith in God's plan and not being discouraged by the attempts of others to suppress or hinder one's ministry. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that true riches come from having faith in God, not from material wealth.
Moved to Equip
By Stewart Ruch35228:05MAT 9:36MAT 14:13MAT 14:15MAT 14:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses how Jesus ignites the imagination of his followers and invites them into his work. He uses the story of Ralph being invited into ranching by his father as an analogy. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus is not a leader who sends people away, but rather invites them in and teaches them. He also shares a personal story of a coach who cast a vision and helped him improve as a runner. The sermon is based on Matthew chapter 14 and parallels the events in chapter 9.
Launch Out Into the Deep - Part 1
By John Follette6341:28:57MAT 5:6MAT 7:7LUK 11:9JHN 4:14ACT 1:8ACT 2:38ACT 10:44In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of detaching oneself from the natural world and its ways in order to deepen one's relationship with God. He mentions that our depth in God is determined by how far we have become detached from worldly thinking and philosophies. The preacher also discusses the concept of different natures, including the divine, angelic, human, and animal natures, and how man was originally created to manifest the divine nature. However, due to the fall, humanity has fallen into a broken and fallen nature. The preacher encourages the audience to recognize their fallen state and seek restoration through God.
Having a Spiritual Life Outside of Church Meetings
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K17:41PSA 46:10PSA 139:1ISA 26:3MAT 8:26JHN 14:11TH 5:171TI 4:8In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about two missionary children who remained joyful and carefree during a storm on a boat while others were in despair. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having Jesus as our pilot in life and experiencing the abundant life He offers. The sermon encourages believers to keep their minds stayed on Jesus and to continually pray without ceasing, as it is necessary for our spiritual life. The preacher also highlights the significance of living out our faith in between church meetings and practicing the presence of God in our daily lives.
The Example of Our Lord
By Andrew Murray0ISA 40:31MAT 16:17MRK 1:35LUK 6:12LUK 9:18LUK 9:28LUK 11:1JHN 14:16JHN 17:1PHP 4:6Andrew Murray emphasizes the vital connection between prayer and the Spirit-filled life, illustrating how Jesus exemplified this relationship throughout His ministry. He highlights key moments in Christ's life, such as His baptism, the calling of the apostles, and the Transfiguration, where prayer was essential for receiving strength and guidance from God. Murray points out that Jesus' prayer life was foundational for His work and that believers must also engage in continuous prayer to fulfill God's purposes. He urges Christians to recognize the power of prayer in aligning their wills with God's and in accomplishing His work on earth. Ultimately, Murray calls for a commitment to a life of daily prayer, following the example set by Jesus.
Moved as Everyone
By Stewart Ruch31015:51MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the inclusive nature of Jesus' work and his message. Jesus said that he came to draw all people to himself and that everyone who seeks, asks, and knocks will receive. The preacher highlights the significance of the church's beginnings, which was not started by religious leaders but by a Japanese-American dentist in West Chicago. The preacher also shares personal experiences of feeling excluded and emphasizes the importance of being included. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that Jesus is moved by individuals and extends an invitation to receive the Holy Spirit and Jesus himself.
How to Differentiate Between Being Spiritual and Being Soulish
By Watchman Nee0JHN 3:6ROM 8:9ROM 12:21CO 2:142CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 4:23COL 3:2JAS 1:211PE 2:11Watchman Nee discusses the distinction between being spiritual and being soulish, emphasizing that after regeneration, believers possess both a soulish life and a spiritual life. He explains that while the spiritual life is strong, the soulish life often dominates unless one willingly surrenders it to allow the Holy Spirit to operate fully. A spiritual Christian lives by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, while a soulish Christian remains influenced by the mind and emotions, failing to draw strength from the spiritual life. The sermon highlights the necessity of allowing God's nature to rule over our being for spiritual growth.
The Sin and Cause of Prayerlessness
By Andrew Murray0MAT 26:41ROM 8:51TH 5:17JAS 4:2Andrew Murray emphasizes the grave sin of prayerlessness, urging individuals to acknowledge it personally and recognize its deep implications. He explains that prayerlessness is not merely a weakness but a reproach to God, a cause of spiritual deficiency, and a significant loss for the Church, particularly when ministers fail to model a life of prayer. Murray calls for a transformation in understanding prayer's vital role in spiritual life and ministry, highlighting that true fellowship with God is essential for effective service and evangelism. He stresses that the root of prayerlessness lies in living according to the flesh rather than the Spirit, and urges believers to seek deliverance from this sin through Christ.
Laws of the Spiritual Life #2 - the Law of Humility
By Zac Poonen3.1K52:50PSA 103:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the promise in Romans 6:14 that sin shall not have dominion over believers because they are under grace, not under the law. He explains that while the old covenant was represented by the law given by Moses, the new covenant is represented by the grace brought by Jesus through the Holy Spirit. The preacher distinguishes between saving people and forgiving them, using the analogy of a child falling into a pit despite being warned by their father. He emphasizes that forgiveness alone does not save, and that Jesus came to save people from their sins. The preacher encourages believers to trust in God's word and promises, and to surrender themselves fully to the Lord in order to experience victory over sin through His grace.
The Most Glittering Services
By Thomas Brooks0ROM 6:23EPH 2:1Thomas Brooks emphasizes that the most impressive acts of service performed by those who are unregenerate are ultimately meaningless, as they lack the foundation of spiritual life. He warns that such works lead to spiritual death and carry a sentence of condemnation until one is redeemed by the blood of Christ. The sermon calls for a genuine transformation that comes from a relationship with Jesus, rather than mere outward actions.
As Ye Have Therefore Received Christ Jesus
By A.B. Simpson0JHN 15:5ROM 8:11GAL 2:20PHP 4:13COL 3:3A.B. Simpson emphasizes that the essence of spiritual life lies in Christ both for us and in us. He explains that our salvation and justification come from Christ, while our sanctification is sustained by Him living within us. This understanding leads to a life where we rely not on our own strength but on Christ, who is our life, hidden with God. Simpson encourages believers to walk in Christ with the same dependence they had when they first received Him, highlighting the importance of trusting Him for every moment of their lives.
Quote - Only Two Types of People
By Leonard Ravenhill1.4K00:11JHN 8:36ROM 6:11ROM 8:12CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:1COL 3:3TIT 2:141PE 2:241JN 1:9Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes that there are fundamentally two types of people: those who are dead in sin and those who are dead to sin. He challenges listeners to examine their spiritual state and encourages them to strive for a life that is dead to sin, living in the freedom and victory that comes from Christ. The sermon calls for a deep reflection on one's relationship with sin and the transformative power of the Gospel.
Spiritual Life: The Sentance of Death
By Stephen Kaung1.4K53:362CO 1:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the "sentence of death" and its application to our spiritual lives. He explains that the sentence of death refers to a judicial decision that proclaims death as the end of everything. The speaker emphasizes that true spiritual life is resurrection life, emerging from death. He uses the example of Job, who experienced the glory of God under the sentence of death. The speaker also mentions three things in our natural life that oppose the grace of God: human energy, fleshly wisdom, and self-glory. Overall, the sermon highlights the importance of understanding and accepting the sentence of death in order to experience true spiritual life.
Dirt In, Life Out, Light Off
By Major Ian Thomas121:11:35PRO 20:27ISA 64:6MRK 7:20JHN 14:6ROM 3:232CO 5:21EPH 4:17PHP 1:11COL 1:27TIT 3:5Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that the Christian life is not merely a religion but a relationship with Jesus Christ, who is both the way to God and the life that sustains believers. He explains that while becoming a Christian is a momentary crisis of faith, being a Christian is an ongoing process of growth and transformation through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Thomas illustrates this with the analogy of a lamp, which requires both cleansing (dirt out) and power (life in) to function properly, symbolizing the need for redemption and regeneration in the believer's life. He stresses that Jesus came to restore humanity to its intended function by reintroducing life to those who are spiritually dead. Ultimately, the sermon calls for believers to recognize their need for both the redemptive work of Christ and the ongoing presence of His life within them.
Spiritual Life: The Fragrance of Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.5K53:312CO 2:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the Catholic Convention held in England every year, where people gather to hear messages on victory. The motto of the convention is "When you fall, shout victory." The speaker explains that this motto may seem contradictory, but it holds a secret. When we fall, we should shout victory because even though we may fall, Christ never falls and His power is manifested in our witness. The speaker emphasizes the importance of blending weakness and strength, tears and shouts, in our spiritual life, and how God always leads us in triumph in Christ Jesus.
A Spiritual Life
By Joshua Daniel1.0K14:30PRO 6:16PRO 11:1PRO 13:24MAT 7:7MRK 4:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not acquiring money through evil means such as deceit and false balance. He shares a heartbreaking story of a girl whose mother earned money through abortions, highlighting the lack of blessing that comes from such wealth. The speaker then discusses the condition of the heart when receiving the word of God, cautioning against being like those who receive it with gladness but have no root and are easily offended when faced with affliction or persecution. He also addresses the issue of shallow and insincere prayer, urging believers to engage in secret prayer led by the Holy Spirit.
It's Source
By D.L. Moody0PSA 51:11ZEC 4:6JHN 3:6JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:111CO 12:7GAL 5:22EPH 4:302TI 1:7D.L. Moody emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in imparting spiritual life and power to believers, arguing that without this divine quickening, religious rituals are meaningless. He highlights the necessity of understanding the Holy Spirit's attributes and presence, as many Christians lack a personal relationship with Him. Moody calls for a greater manifestation of the Holy Spirit's power within the Church, acknowledging past ignorance and dishonor towards Him. He stresses that the Holy Spirit not only gives life but also sustains it, ensuring that believers are continually empowered. The sermon encourages a deeper prayer life and awareness of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
How Life Is Maintained - the Principle of the New Covenant
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 16:9ROM 1:181CO 12:122CO 4:6GAL 2:20EPH 4:15HEB 2:10HEB 5:11HEB 6:1HEB 12:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the necessity of maintaining spiritual life within Christianity, warning against reducing it to mere 'dead works' or systems of doctrine. He explains that the New Covenant is not a set of beliefs but a living relationship with Christ, revealed through the Holy Spirit. Sparks highlights the importance of personal revelation of Christ in the believer's heart, which is essential for true Christianity to thrive. He argues that all practices and doctrines should be seen as expressions of the Living Person of Christ, rather than rigid systems. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a continuous, growing understanding of Christ to keep faith vibrant and impactful.