The Church's Identity
The Church's Identity3
Collectanea
By John Nelson Darby0ISA 60:17ROM 11:30John Nelson Darby discusses the duality of the heavenly and earthly Jerusalems, emphasizing the distinct roles of grace and righteousness in God's plan. He highlights the Church's current state as a reflection of the future heavenly Jerusalem, where believers will walk in righteousness and experience God's grace. Darby also addresses the importance of understanding the complete ruin of man and the necessity of knowing God to fully appreciate His love and grace. He encourages believers to look forward to the coming glory and to live in a way that reflects their identity in Christ, while also acknowledging the challenges of the present dispensation. The sermon serves as a reminder of the Church's role as a witness to God's grace amidst the world's darkness.
Romans 11 - Part 1
By Art Katz2381:30:35ISA 49:6ROM 9:1ROM 10:1ROM 11:1EPH 2:11Art Katz explores the intricate reasoning of Paul in Romans 11, emphasizing the centrality of Israel in God's plan for the church. He challenges the Gentile church to embrace a Hebraic understanding of faith, recognizing their roots in Jewish heritage and the importance of mercy towards the Jewish people. Katz warns against superficial Christianity and calls for a deep, authentic relationship with God that reflects His glory and fulfills the mandate to provoke Israel to jealousy. He stresses that the restoration of Israel is not just a theological issue but a matter of God's glory and the church's identity.
The Continuation of the Conflict in Relation to the Church as the Corporate Company
By T. Austin-Sparks01CO 3:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the ongoing spiritual conflict faced by the Church and individual believers, highlighting the battle for the manifestation of spiritual life against forces of spiritual death. He contrasts the earthly struggles depicted in 1 Corinthians with the heavenly realities presented in Ephesians, illustrating how the Church must rise above worldly influences to fully express the life of Christ. The sermon calls for believers to understand the significance of the Cross and the power of the resurrection, urging them to embrace their identity as a heavenly people. Sparks stresses that true unity and order within the Church are essential for a powerful testimony against spiritual forces. Ultimately, he challenges the Church to abandon earthly ties and embrace its calling to a higher spiritual realm.