Spiritual Separation
Spiritual Separation5
The Appeal of God's Full Thought
By T. Austin-Sparks01CO 1:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the distinction between the position of believers in Christ and their actual spiritual condition, as illustrated in his examination of the Corinthian church. He highlights that while some members were failing, others were overcoming, and the letters to the churches serve as an appeal to align with God's full thought. Using Levi as an example, he illustrates the necessity of spiritual separation from natural influences to truly represent God's will. The sermon calls for a commitment to God's full thought, which may require personal sacrifice and a rejection of worldly wisdom. Ultimately, those who embrace this path become instruments of divine revelation and ministry.
Yield to the Spirit of God to Cast Out the Spirit of This World.
By Andrew Murray0JHN 17:152CO 4:4Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of yielding to the Spirit of God to overcome the deceptive spirit of the world. He explains that true influence over others comes from a life that is spiritually separated from worldly desires, rather than from mere physical withdrawal. The blinding influence of the world can even affect believers, preventing them from fully grasping God's teachings. By fully devoting ourselves to Christ and embracing a heavenly life, we gain the strength to selflessly serve others and effectively impact their lives.
In the Spirit or in the World
By T. Austin-Sparks0LUK 12:20JHN 3:6JHN 17:16COL 3:1REV 5:5REV 21:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the distinction between living in the Spirit versus being consumed by the world, using the imagery of the New Jerusalem as a representation of a spiritual people rather than a literal city. He argues that true understanding of spiritual truths requires a separation from worldly concerns, as illustrated by John's vision of being carried away in the Spirit to a high mountain. Sparks highlights that the Christian life is about being alive in the Spirit, which allows believers to perceive divine truths and realities beyond the physical realm. He warns against the dangers of being 'worldly Christians' and encourages believers to seek a deeper spiritual connection with God. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to spiritual growth and a rejection of worldly distractions.
On Being Different
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 5:14ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:8PHP 2:15COL 3:21TH 5:22JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 2:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Church's greatest influence comes from its distinctiveness from the world. He argues that the Church's power is directly proportional to how different it is from society, and that attempts to conform to worldly standards dilute its effectiveness. Tozer warns against the dangers of compromise, asserting that true believers are morally and spiritually separated from the world. He highlights that similarity to the world signifies a decline in the Church's character and mission. The sermon calls for a return to the Church's unique identity as a reflection of God's kingdom.
The God of Israel Hath Separated You
By A.B. Simpson0ROM 12:22CO 6:17JAS 4:41PE 1:151JN 2:15A.B. Simpson emphasizes the concept of spiritual separation in his sermon 'The God of Israel Hath Separated You.' He illustrates how a plant can thrive in unclean surroundings while its roots remain untouched by filth, symbolizing the believer's call to be separate from worldly desires and influences. Simpson argues that true separation is not merely about abstaining from sinful activities but involves a heart that does not long for those things. The essence of holiness is found in a genuine detachment from the love of the world, which defiles the soul. The true Levite, he asserts, is one who has no desire for earthly pleasures, reflecting a heart wholly devoted to God.