Spiritual Pilgrimage
Spiritual Pilgrimage3
Oneness With God in a Crisis Regarding the Natural Man
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 12:1GEN 13:14EXO 12:38EXO 15:13ISA 41:8ROM 6:6GAL 2:20T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the spiritual pilgrimage of the Christian life, illustrating that the journey begins with a decisive separation from the world and progresses into a deeper conflict with the natural man within. He highlights Abraham's journey, where the initial call to leave his homeland leads to a new battle against the remnants of the old life, represented by Lot. The sermon stresses that true oneness with God requires not only leaving the world behind but also confronting and overcoming the natural self that clings to us. Sparks uses the story of Lot to illustrate the dangers of allowing the natural man to hinder spiritual progress, ultimately calling for a crisis of separation to fully embrace God's purpose. The message concludes with a call for self-examination and surrender to God’s will.
Too Much "At Home"
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 6:19JHN 14:2ROM 12:22CO 5:1PHP 3:20COL 3:2HEB 11:10JAS 4:41PE 2:11REV 21:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the danger of Christians becoming too comfortable in this world, equating contentment with spiritual stagnation. He warns that if believers feel at home in their earthly surroundings, it indicates a departure from their true identity as pilgrims on a journey to a heavenly city designed by God. Tozer challenges the congregation to reflect on their attachment to worldly comforts and to seek a deeper faith and connection with Christ, reminding them that their true home lies beyond this life.
Oneness With God in His Repudiation of This World
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 11:27GEN 12:1GEN 17:52CH 20:7ISA 41:8JHN 17:16ACT 13:22HEB 11:13JAS 2:231PE 2:11T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the necessity of oneness with God through a repudiation of the world, illustrating this through the life of Abraham, who was called the friend of God. He explains that true friendship with God requires a spiritual pilgrimage, marked by a decisive step away from worldly ties and into a deeper relationship with God. This journey is not instantaneous but involves progressive stages, where believers must continually affirm their commitment to God amidst worldly temptations. Sparks highlights that God’s call to Abraham to leave his homeland symbolizes a broader call for all believers to separate from the world and embrace a life centered on God’s purpose. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to cultivate a heart wholly devoted to God, reflecting the character of Abraham as a blessing to others.