Spiritual Progress
Spiritual Progress3
Now Then Do It
By Theodore Epp02SA 3:12SA 3:18PSA 47:7MAT 28:18JHN 18:37ROM 10:91CO 15:57COL 1:13HEB 6:1REV 19:16Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of making Christ the king of our lives, drawing parallels between David's anointing and Christ's role as the anointed one. He highlights how David's patience and waiting on the Lord led to his eventual crowning, and encourages believers to take action by fully accepting Christ's kingship. Epp points out that while Christ's redemptive work is complete, the Holy Spirit's work in us is ongoing, urging us to progress in our faith. The call to 'Now then do it' serves as a reminder to actively choose to follow Christ and deepen our relationship with Him.
The Path of Progress: Knowing
By Watchman Nee0PSA 106:12ROM 5:8ROM 6:12CO 5:17EPH 1:17Watchman Nee emphasizes that our old history ends with the Cross and our new history begins with the resurrection, highlighting that being 'in Christ' transforms us into new creations. He explains that just as we involuntarily inherit sin from Adam, we also receive grace and new life through Christ without effort, but this realization must be made practical through four steps: Knowing, Reckoning, Presenting ourselves to God, and Walking in the Spirit. Nee stresses the importance of understanding our death with Christ as a historical fact, which is essential for spiritual progress, and encourages believers to recognize that they have already been included in Christ's death and resurrection. He illustrates that the Cross addresses not only our sins but also the root of our sinful nature, urging believers to seek divine revelation to fully grasp their identity in Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of the completed work of Christ, leading to a life of praise and assurance in our new identity.
The Presence of the Lord Is Power! the Presence of the Lord Is Life! the Presence of the Lord Is Holiness!
By T. Austin-Sparks0HEB 4:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the vital importance of the Lord's Presence in the lives of His people, asserting that it is essential for power, life, and holiness. He draws parallels between the Israelites' journey in the wilderness and the spiritual journey of believers today, highlighting that God's Presence is contingent upon our willingness to move forward in faith and obedience. Sparks warns against stagnation, urging believers to actively practice what they have learned from God, as true progress is rooted in daily obedience. He encourages the congregation to seek the Lord's Presence earnestly, as it is through this pursuit that they will experience fullness and enter into His rest. Ultimately, the message is a call to action, reminding believers that the Lord is with those who are committed to going on in their spiritual journey.