The Authority of Scripture
The Authority of Scripture18
Beware of Lawlessness - Part 2
By Phil Beach Jr.2343:04DEU 12:29Phil Beach Jr. warns against the spirit of lawlessness, emphasizing the importance of adhering to God's Word and recognizing the subtle ways in which temptation can lead believers away from Christ. He draws parallels between the warnings given to Israel in Deuteronomy and the New Testament teachings, highlighting the need for vigilance against false prophets and teachings that may appear righteous but ultimately divert attention from the truth of Scripture. The sermon stresses the believer's identity in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and to prioritize the Word of God in their lives.
The Bible's Supreme Place
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 119:165ISA 26:3MAT 11:28JHN 14:26ROM 15:4PHP 4:7COL 3:162TI 3:16JAS 1:121PE 1:6C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the supreme place of the Bible in the life of a believer, asserting that true love for God's law brings profound peace and protection. He explains that living in accordance with the Scriptures fosters a deep restfulness and equips believers to face trials without being offended or stumbled. The Holy Spirit, through the Word, provides comfort and calms the soul's tempests, allowing believers to navigate both prosperity and adversity with grace. Spurgeon encourages a reverent awe for the Scriptures, which serve as the ultimate authority in a believer's life, leading to joy and acceptance of faith's mysteries.
No Light Without the Divine Enlightener
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 119:104PRO 3:5ISA 60:1MAT 5:14JHN 8:12ROM 12:2EPH 5:82TI 3:16HEB 4:121JN 1:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of divine enlightenment for understanding redeeming truth, asserting that all men are inherently heretics without the illumination of Scripture. He warns against the dangers of compromising truth for the sake of social harmony, urging believers to correct errors rather than ignore them. Tozer likens the responsibility of Christians to that of lighthouse keepers, who must not yield to darkness but instead guide others towards the light of God's Word. He stresses that personal intelligence or experience is insufficient; only the Scriptures can provide the ultimate truth and understanding.
The Divine Word and the Doom of Its Defacers
By Horatius Bonar0REV 22:18Horatius Bonar emphasizes the sanctity and perfection of God's Word, warning against the grave consequences of adding to or taking away from Scripture, as outlined in Revelation 22:18-19. He highlights the responsibility of believers to honor the Bible, recognizing it as the complete revelation of God's character and will. Bonar stresses that tampering with the Word is a serious sin, leading to dire consequences, including the loss of one's part in the Book of Life and the Holy City. He calls for a reverent approach to Scripture, urging believers to treat it with the utmost respect and seriousness. The sermon serves as a reminder of the eternal implications of how we engage with God's Word.
The Bible
By D.L. Moody02TI 3:16D.L. Moody passionately defends the Bible against modern skepticism, arguing that no other book can replace its value and truth. He emphasizes the Bible's role in providing hope, especially in the face of death, and criticizes the notion that society has outgrown its teachings. Moody draws parallels between the Bible and the sun, asserting that just as we would not forsake sunlight for artificial light, we should not abandon the Bible for contemporary ideologies. He highlights the historical consequences of nations that have disregarded the Bible, contrasting the prosperity of England with the decline of France. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the 'good old way' of faith rooted in Scripture.
Bound to the Living Word
By David Wilkerson0PSA 66:7PSA 93:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the majesty and power of God as the ruler of all creation, whose laws govern the universe and the affairs of humanity. He highlights that God's testimonies and decrees are irrevocable and reliable, as echoed in the scriptures. The sermon reflects on the eternal and unchangeable nature of God's Living Word, which serves as the foundation for His just rulings. Wilkerson reassures that while God is a righteous King, He is also a compassionate Father who cares for His children. Ultimately, the Bible is presented as the constitution of God's kingdom, revealing His character and the laws by which He governs.
The Worldly "Virus"
By A.W. Tozer01JN 2:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity for Christian believers to unite against the negative influences infiltrating the church, including modern idols, unauthorized practices, and worldly values. He asserts that the church must boldly oppose greed, sinful ambitions, and carnal habits that threaten its integrity. Tozer highlights the importance of separation from these worldly influences, stating that the Word of God serves as the essential remedy to combat the spiritual virus affecting the church. He encourages believers to stand firm in their faith to ensure the church remains healthy and vibrant.
J. C. Ryle – the Man, the Minister and the Missionary
By J.C. Ryle02TI 3:16David Holloway highlights the life and ministry of J.C. Ryle, emphasizing his significant contributions as a man, minister, and missionary. Ryle, known for his clear and scriptural preaching, faced personal trials that shaped his faith and ministry, including the loss of his family's wealth and the deaths of his wives. His commitment to evangelical principles and the importance of Scripture led him to write extensively, producing tracts that reached millions and addressing the spiritual needs of his time. Despite not being widely read today, Ryle's works remain relevant for their emphasis on the authority of the Bible and the necessity of personal faith in Christ. Holloway encourages a renewed interest in Ryle's writings for their clarity and doctrinal soundness.
Letters on Revival--No. 6.
By Charles Finney0PRO 3:5MAT 11:25JHN 20:29ROM 10:171CO 8:1COL 2:82TI 3:16HEB 11:1JAS 1:51PE 1:8Charles Finney addresses the dangers of philosophical preaching that prioritizes human understanding over faith in God's revelation. He warns that such an approach can lead to pride and a lack of true faith, as it encourages believers to rely on their own reasoning rather than the authority of Scripture. Finney emphasizes the importance of presenting the gospel as facts to be believed on God's testimony, rather than requiring philosophical explanations that may undermine faith. He advocates for a balanced approach that nurtures faith while also allowing for understanding, cautioning against the pitfalls of intellectualism in spiritual matters. Ultimately, he calls for a return to humility and reliance on God's word to foster genuine spiritual growth.
Bible Reading - Part 2
By J.C. Ryle0JOB 23:12PSA 119:11PSA 119:97ISA 43:2JHN 3:161CO 15:55PHP 1:21COL 3:162TI 3:16REV 7:9J.C. Ryle emphasizes the necessity of the Bible as the sole authority for doctrine and practice amidst the confusion of differing Christian beliefs. He urges believers to measure all teachings against Scripture, asserting that true ministers welcome scrutiny of their teachings by the Word of God. Ryle highlights the Bible's role as the sustenance for spiritual life and the only source of comfort in death, warning against neglecting its importance. He calls Christians to read, understand, and apply the Bible diligently in their lives, as it is essential for salvation and spiritual growth. Ultimately, Ryle implores his audience to consider their relationship with the Bible and to prioritize it above all else.
Is the Bible in Danger?
By R.A. Torrey0MAT 24:35JHN 8:36JHN 14:1R.A. Torrey addresses the question 'Is the Bible in Danger?' asserting that it is not, despite the presence of persistent enemies. He emphasizes that the Bible has withstood over 1800 years of attacks and continues to meet the deepest needs of humanity, providing answers to sin, sorrow, and hope. Torrey argues that there is no alternative to the Bible that can fulfill these needs, and its enduring influence is supported by the confidence of wise and holy individuals. Ultimately, he concludes that the Bible is the Word of God, and any honest seeker can find its truth for themselves.
Psalms 19:1
By Chuck Smith0PSA 19:1PSA 19:7ROM 1:20Chuck Smith emphasizes that God speaks to humanity through creation and His Word, urging listeners to recognize the glory of God as revealed in nature. He explains that while the heavens and the earth declare God's greatness, they are not sufficient for understanding Him fully, as many misinterpret nature's message. Smith asserts that the Bible is the definitive Word of God, inviting individuals to explore its truths personally. He encourages believers to bring their burdens to God, who loves them despite their sins and desires a relationship with them. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper engagement with both nature and Scripture to truly hear God's voice.
Rev. 22:18-19. the Divine Word, and the Doom of Its Defacers
By Horatius Bonar0REV 22:18Horatius Bonar emphasizes the sanctity and perfection of God's Word in his sermon on Revelation 22:18-19, warning against the grave consequences of adding to or taking away from Scripture. He highlights that the Bible is not merely a human text but a divine revelation that demands respect and responsibility from its readers. Bonar stresses that tampering with the Word is a serious sin, leading to dire consequences, including the loss of one's place in the Book of Life and the Holy City. He calls for a reverent approach to Scripture, recognizing its authority and the dangers of modern interpretations that seek to diminish its truth. Ultimately, Bonar urges believers to honor God's Word as the ultimate expression of His character and will.
Light to Live By
By A.W. Tozer02TI 3:16A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Bible is a divine response to humanity's moral crisis following the fall, serving as a guide for sinners to return to God. It is not merely a literary work to be appreciated but a call to action that demands faith, surrender, and commitment from its readers. The Scriptures provide essential truths about God, humanity, and the afterlife, while also offering salvation through Jesus Christ. Tozer warns that a passive approach to the Word only heightens one's responsibility and the judgment that follows. Ultimately, the destiny of each individual hinges on their response to God's voice in the Scriptures.
Doth Not the Ear Try Words? and the Palate
By F.B. Meyer0JOB 12:11PSA 119:105ISA 30:21MAT 7:15JHN 10:27JHN 16:13ROM 10:171TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of discerning the truth in words, comparing the ear's ability to judge speech to the palate's ability to taste food. He encourages believers to apply a spiritual test to the Scriptures, recognizing the unique quality and divine authority present in God's Word. Meyer highlights that true followers of Christ can distinguish His voice from others, urging listeners to seek God's guidance in developing this discernment. The sermon calls for a humble approach to understanding Scripture amidst scholarly challenges, affirming that the Holy Spirit speaks through the Word.
The Revelatory Light of Scripture
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 19:7PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 8:20MAT 4:4JHN 17:171TI 3:162TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the absolute clarity of God's truth compared to the often ambiguous nature of human reasoning. He urges believers to align themselves with God's side, which is inherently good and holy, despite potential conflicts with societal philosophies. Tozer highlights the Bible as the definitive source of divine revelation, illuminating the path to understanding God's will and moral truth. He encourages a deep acquaintance with Scripture, asserting that it provides clarity and guidance in a world filled with confusion. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to God's truth as the only reliable foundation for moral living.
The Down Grade (April, 1887)
By C.H. Spurgeon02TI 4:3C.H. Spurgeon addresses the decline of true faith among Nonconformists from 1688 to the reign of George III, highlighting a period marked by theological corruption and the rise of heresies such as Arminianism and Socinianism. He emphasizes the importance of holding fast to the authority of Scripture, warning against the dangers of questioning its divine inspiration, which leads to spiritual decay. Spurgeon notes that while some churches succumbed to heresy, others experienced revival through faithful ministers who restored the gospel's truth. He calls for vigilance against modern skepticism and urges believers to remain steadfast in their faith. Ultimately, Spurgeon encourages the church to uphold the Word of God as the guiding truth amidst a culture of doubt.
There Is None Like That; Give It Me
By F.B. Meyer1ROM 3:23HEB 4:12F.B. Meyer emphasizes the unparalleled nature of the Bible, likening it to the sword of Goliath that David cherished, stating that it is uniquely powerful for the sinner, the sorrowful, and the dying. He highlights how Scripture confronts sin while offering God's love and assurance, serves as a source of comfort in sorrow, and provides hope and peace for those facing death. Meyer asserts that the Bible's authority is evidenced through its transformative impact on lives and its enduring relevance amidst doubt and debate.