The Nature of Christ
The Nature of Christ29
The Utilitarian Christ
By A.W. Tozer0JOB 42:5A.W. Tozer addresses the misconception of Christ as a utilitarian figure, emphasizing that many have reduced Him to a mere tool for personal gain and success in trivial pursuits. He critiques the notion that Christ is invoked to assist in competitive sports, business dealings, or even morally questionable roles in entertainment, highlighting the danger of treating prayer as a means to manipulate divine power for selfish ends. Tozer calls for a deeper understanding of Christ's true nature, urging believers to approach Him with reverence and humility, recognizing His sovereignty rather than using Him for personal advantage.
Christ's Picture Everywhere
By A.W. Tozer0REV 4:6A.W. Tozer emphasizes the challenge John faced in describing heavenly beings in Revelation, noting that while it is impossible to fully capture God's glory, he attempts to convey the essence of the four living creatures. Tozer draws a parallel between these creatures and the four Gospels, illustrating how each Gospel reflects a different aspect of Christ: Matthew as the King, Mark as the suffering Servant, Luke as the Son of Man, and John as the Son of God. This imagery serves to remind us that Jesus Christ is central to Christianity and is depicted throughout Scripture. Tozer encourages believers to recognize the omnipresence of Christ's image in the world around us, reinforcing the idea that worship and devotion to God are paramount.
1 John 4:2
By John Gill0JHN 1:14JHN 14:6ACT 4:12ROM 10:91CO 15:3PHP 2:5COL 2:91TI 3:16HEB 4:141JN 4:2John Gill emphasizes the importance of discerning the Spirit of God through the confession of Jesus Christ's incarnation. He explains that true doctrine acknowledges Christ's divine sonship, humanity, and his roles as prophet, priest, and king. This confession is essential for identifying those who are aligned with God and His truth, as it encompasses the core tenets of the Gospel. However, Gill warns that mere intellectual assent to these truths is not sufficient for salvation, as even demons acknowledge Christ's identity without possessing God's grace. Ultimately, those who preach and uphold this doctrine are recognized as being on God's side.
Brief Notes on the First Chapter of John
By John Nelson Darby0JHN 1:1John Nelson Darby explores the profound nature of Christ as the Logos, emphasizing that He is the mind of God expressed and the true light that shines upon humanity. He discusses the essential relationship between Christ and man, highlighting that Christ's incarnation as the 'Only Begotten' Son reveals God's grace and truth. Darby contrasts the understanding of God through theology with the necessity of faith to truly know Him, asserting that Christ's coming was not a gradual development of light but the definitive revelation of God. He reflects on the significance of Christ's dual nature as both divine and human, and the implications of His grace and truth for mankind. The sermon concludes with the assertion that seeing God is essential for true comfort and understanding of our relationship with Him.
Jesus From Genesis to Revelation (Pt. 3)
By Michael Koulianos3646:27JHN 20:24Michael Koulianos emphasizes the significance of recognizing Jesus as both crucified and risen, urging believers to understand the depth of His wounds and the power of His resurrection. He highlights the importance of humility and the need for a genuine encounter with Christ, which transforms our hearts and lives. Koulianos challenges the church to seek the presence of God earnestly, reminding us that true power comes from surrendering to Him and embodying His love and gentleness. He encourages believers to embrace the trials of life as opportunities for growth and deeper revelation of Jesus. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a heart posture that seeks to honor God above all else, reflecting the nature of the crucified and risen one.
1 John 1:1
By John Gill01JN 1:1John Gill discusses the authorship and purpose of the epistle of 1 John, attributing it to John, the beloved disciple of Jesus. He emphasizes that the letter was written to all Christians, particularly to encourage brotherly love and to warn against false teachings regarding the nature of Christ. Gill highlights the importance of the apostolic witness to Jesus Christ, affirming His dual nature as both God and man, and the necessity of living a holy life in accordance with this truth. The sermon stresses that true fellowship with God requires acknowledgment of sin and a commitment to righteousness, countering the claims of those who deny sin's presence in their lives. Ultimately, Gill aims to reinforce the foundational truths of the Christian faith and the call to live in light of them.
Christ the Sacrifice Receiver
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 1:1JHN 1:14COL 2:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound nature of Christ as the ultimate revelation of God, highlighting the significance of the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us. He draws from the writings of John and Paul to illustrate how Christ triumphed over spiritual powers through His sacrifice on the cross. Tozer urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, surrendering fully to Christ, who invites us to concentrate on Him and be captivated by His glory. The sermon calls for a deep understanding of who Christ is and the reality of His presence in our lives.
The Prologue of John's Gospel John 1:1-18
By R.A. Torrey0JHN 1:1R.A. Torrey explores the profound truths of John's Gospel, emphasizing Jesus as the eternal Word of God who was both with God and was God. He highlights the significance of Jesus as the source of life and light for humanity, contrasting the darkness of the world that failed to recognize Him. Torrey discusses the role of John the Baptist as a witness to the Light and the necessity of believing in Jesus to become children of God. The sermon culminates in the revelation of the Word made flesh, showcasing the grace and truth that Jesus embodies, and the transformative power of His incarnation for believers.
The Word Made Flesh
By A.W. Tozer0LUK 2:7JHN 1:14PHP 2:7COL 1:16HEB 1:3A.W. Tozer reflects on the profound mystery of the Incarnation, emphasizing that Jesus, the Eternal One, humbled Himself to become flesh and dwell among humanity. He expresses a longing to have witnessed the baby Jesus, while also recognizing that this humble child was the Creator of all things, including the very manger that held Him. Tozer highlights the significance of Jesus coming into His own world, reminding us that everything we experience belongs to Him. This revelation leads to a deep love, adoration, and honor for Christ, who is both the glorified Savior and the humble infant of Bethlehem.
On the Covering of the Holy Vessels Numbers 4
By John Nelson Darby0NUM 4:5John Nelson Darby explores the significance of the coverings of the holy vessels in Numbers 4, emphasizing how each item reflects different aspects of Christ's nature and ministry. He illustrates that the ark, table, and candlestick each have unique coverings that symbolize Christ's humanity, divine righteousness, and the manifestation of the Spirit. The badgers' skins represent protection from evil, while the colors used—blue, scarlet, and purple—highlight the heavenly, royal, and human aspects of Christ. Darby concludes that these coverings serve as a reminder of Christ's perfection and the need for believers to embody these qualities through the power of the Holy Spirit as they journey through life. Ultimately, the sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing Christ's multifaceted nature in our spiritual walk.
Jesus the Wonderful
By R.A. Torrey0ISA 9:6JHN 1:1R.A. Torrey emphasizes the wonder of Jesus Christ, as foretold by the prophet Isaiah, highlighting His divine nature, perfect character, and redemptive work. He explains that Jesus is both fully divine and fully human, embodying absolute perfection in holiness and love. Torrey illustrates how Jesus' atonement for sin is complete, offering salvation and transformation to all who believe. He concludes by urging the audience to consider their response to this wonderful Jesus, who promises to transform lives and grant eternal hope.
The Supernatural Birth and Works of Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0MAT 19:26LUK 1:37JHN 1:2JHN 3:6JHN 14:12ROM 8:61CO 2:14EPH 2:8COL 1:16HEB 11:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the ongoing conflict between the natural and supernatural realms, arguing that what humanity often deems 'natural' is, from God's perspective, 'unnatural.' He highlights the necessity of supernatural intervention for redemption, beginning with the miraculous birth of Christ, which signifies a new order of humanity. Sparks asserts that the works of Christ, including His miracles, are not merely acts of power but profound signs that reveal His divine nature and authority. The sermon underscores that true salvation and transformation can only come through the supernatural, as the natural man cannot comprehend the things of the Spirit. Ultimately, the message calls for recognition of the supernatural in both the birth and works of Christ as essential to understanding the fullness of the Gospel.
The Appearance of Christ in Human Nature - Part 2
By John Gill02SA 23:4PSA 103:1PSA 118:27PSA 119:130ISA 30:26ISA 53:2ZEC 14:7JHN 20:20GAL 2:201JN 4:10John Gill emphasizes the significance of Christ's appearance in human nature, likening it to the light of the morning and the tender grass that springs forth after rain. He explains that Christ's revelation dispels the darkness of sin and ignorance, bringing joy and clarity to believers. Gill further illustrates how Christ's righteous rule is akin to the refreshing light of dawn, promising hope and spiritual growth for His followers. He concludes by encouraging believers to appreciate the light and grace they receive from Christ, who is both their Savior and Ruler. The sermon ultimately calls for gratitude and a commitment to live as children of the light.
Justified in the Spirit
By G.W. North0MAT 1:20LUK 1:35JHN 4:24ACT 10:38ROM 1:4ROM 8:11COL 2:91TI 3:16HEB 9:141PE 3:18G.W. North emphasizes the connection between Christ and the Holy Spirit, arguing that the phrase 'spirit of holiness' should be understood as referring to the Holy Spirit rather than an abstract concept. He critiques the translators' choice to use a lowercase 's' for 'spirit,' suggesting it undermines the clarity of Paul's message about Jesus' divine and human nature. North asserts that Jesus, in His humanity, was justified in the Holy Spirit, not in the sense of needing salvation from sin, but in affirming His divine calling and nature. He concludes that the unity of Christ's human and divine spirits is essential to understanding the gospel's fundamental truths. This understanding reinforces the belief that holiness is a characteristic of the divine Spirit, not a separate entity.
Why Four Gospels? Their Unique Purpose and Message
By Mike Bickle201:16:46ISA 33:17JER 23:5ZEC 3:8MAT 1:1MRK 10:45LUK 19:10JHN 1:1JHN 5:18HEB 4:15REV 4:6Mike Bickle emphasizes the unique purposes of the four Gospels, illustrating how each Gospel presents a distinct portrait of Jesus tailored to different audiences: Matthew to the Jews as the Son of David, Mark to the Romans as the Servant, Luke to the Greeks as the Son of Man, and John to all believers as the Son of God. He highlights the beauty of Jesus and the intentionality of the Holy Spirit in crafting these narratives to deepen our understanding of Christ's nature and mission. Bickle encourages a treasure hunt for the nuances in each Gospel that reveal the multifaceted beauty of Jesus, urging listeners to engage with the Scriptures to see Him more clearly.
The Message of Luke
By G. Campbell Morgan0ISA 53:4MAT 16:24LUK 14:26LUK 19:10JHN 1:14JHN 3:16ROM 8:17GAL 3:28HEB 2:112PE 1:4G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the profound message of the Gospel of Luke, presenting Jesus as the 'Son of Man' who embodies the perfect human experience and serves as the racial First-born, representative Brother, and redeeming Kinsman. He highlights the significance of Jesus' immaculate conception and sinlessness, which allows Him to seek and save the lost, establishing a new relationship with humanity through redemption and regeneration. The sermon calls the Church to witness the transformative power of Christ in their lives and to share this message of salvation with the world, emphasizing the terms of discipleship that require total commitment to Christ. Morgan concludes by urging believers to recognize the unique nature of Jesus, who is both intimately relatable and infinitely distinct from humanity.
Know Jesus, Know the Father
By David Wilkerson0JHN 1:18JHN 14:5JHN 14:7JHN 14:20David Wilkerson emphasizes that Jesus came to reveal the Father to us, addressing the disciples' confusion about knowing God. He explains that seeing Jesus is akin to seeing the Father, as Jesus embodies the essence and character of God. Through a profound dialogue with his disciples, Jesus reassures them of their connection to the Father and promises that they will understand this relationship more fully after his resurrection. Wilkerson highlights that Christ's ministry is a manifestation of God's love and character, inviting us to accept and reciprocate that love to truly know the Father.
God Manifested and Glorified
By John Nelson Darby0JHN 17:4PHP 2:7John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound nature of Jesus' mission, illustrating how He glorified God through His redemptive work while maintaining His role as a servant. He highlights the duality of Christ as both fully divine and fully human, showcasing God's love and grace manifested in the flesh. Darby explains that true communion with God comes through recognizing our need as sinners and accepting Christ's sacrifice, which allows us to partake in His glory. The sermon underscores the importance of understanding our identity as children of God and the significance of Christ's work in establishing a new relationship between humanity and the Father. Ultimately, Darby calls believers to live in the light of this truth, reflecting on the grace and glory of God revealed through Jesus.
Expository Thoughts on Mark - Mark 4:35-41
By J.C. Ryle0MRK 4:35J.C. Ryle emphasizes the lessons from the storm on the Sea of Galilee, illustrating that following Christ does not shield His followers from life's storms. He highlights that afflictions are part of the Christian journey, teaching us valuable lessons and drawing us closer to God. Ryle also affirms the dual nature of Christ as both fully man and fully God, capable of understanding our struggles and possessing the power to calm our storms. He reassures believers of Christ's patience and compassion, even in moments of doubt and fear. Ultimately, Ryle encourages us to trust in Jesus, who remains unchanged and ever-present in our trials.
Our Lord Stilling the Tempest Mark 4:35-41
By R.A. Torrey0PSA 46:1PSA 56:3PSA 107:29ISA 41:10MAT 14:31MRK 4:35JHN 3:16JHN 14:1PHP 2:6HEB 4:15R.A. Torrey explores the narrative of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4:35-41, emphasizing the dual nature of Christ as both fully human and fully divine. He reflects on the disciples' fear during the tempest and their misunderstanding of Jesus' care for them, highlighting that true faith dispels fear. Torrey illustrates how Jesus' command over nature reveals His divine authority and reassures believers of their safety under His guidance. The sermon encourages Christians to trust in Jesus amidst life's storms, recognizing that He is always present and in control. Ultimately, it calls for a deeper faith that acknowledges Jesus' power and presence in our lives.
The Mystery in Worship
By A.W. Tozer0EXO 3:5MAT 27:46JHN 1:14PHP 2:6COL 2:9HEB 1:8A.W. Tozer explores the profound mystery of worship through the experience of Moses and the burning bush, emphasizing that Moses worshiped not the bush itself but the glory of God present within it. He draws a parallel to Christ, who, unlike the bush, is eternally the Son of God, highlighting the moment of separation on the cross when Jesus bore our sins. Tozer asserts that the divine and human natures of Christ remain united, and when we worship Him, we are directly addressing God. This sermon invites believers to recognize the depth of their worship and the eternal nature of Christ's divinity.
The Rider on the White Horse
By Brian Guerin355:08REV 19:11Brian Guerin delivers a powerful sermon titled 'The Rider on the White Horse,' focusing on Revelation 19 and the multifaceted nature of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who comes in righteousness to judge and make war against wickedness. Guerin encourages the congregation to embrace the fear of the Lord and to build their lives on the unshakeable foundation of God's Word, as the world faces increasing deception and turmoil. He shares prophetic insights and personal experiences to illustrate the urgency of being prepared for the coming days, highlighting the need for a pure and devoted bride for Christ.
Who Christ Is
By Andrew Murray0ISA 53:7MAT 11:29JHN 1:29EPH 1:7PHP 2:5COL 3:12HEB 9:141PE 1:181JN 2:6REV 5:9Andrew Murray emphasizes the dual significance of Christ as the Lamb of God, highlighting both His sacrificial work for our redemption and His humble nature. He explains that Jesus' blood is the price for our sins and the source of our spiritual nourishment, making His name the most precious to believers. Furthermore, Murray teaches that Christ's humility exemplifies the ideal relationship between the Creator and His creation, revealing that true glory comes from self-abnegation and dependence on God. He urges followers to embrace the meekness of Christ, suggesting that such transformation could profoundly impact the Church and the world. Ultimately, those who follow the Lamb will reflect His gentle nature.
Everyone's Savior
By A.W. Tozer0ACT 10:34A.W. Tozer emphasizes that Christ transcends national and ethnic identities, being the Savior for all humanity rather than just a specific group. He highlights that while Jesus was born a Jew, His mission was to establish a kingdom that includes every nation and people, accepting those who fear Him and do righteousness. Tozer reminds us that the gospel is a divine gift from God, independent of human philosophies, and it operates within the hearts of individuals regardless of their background. He urges believers to focus on eternal truths rather than temporary political disputes, as ultimately, only judgment, sin, heaven, and hell will matter in the end. In the face of mortality, Christ remains the eternal figure who outlasts all earthly powers and conflicts.
Isaiah Chapter 7 the Wonderful Name
By A.B. Simpson0ISA 9:6A.B. Simpson emphasizes the contrast between darkness and dawn in Isaiah Chapter 7, illustrating how the coming of Christ, referred to as the Wonderful Counselor, brings light to a world shrouded in gloom. He highlights the significance of Jesus' birth, portraying Him as the King who will govern with justice and peace, transforming despair into hope. Simpson calls attention to the supernatural nature of Christ's works and the importance of recognizing Him as the source of wisdom and strength in our lives. He encourages believers to embrace the light of Christ, which dispels darkness and offers eternal peace. Ultimately, the sermon invites listeners to surrender their lives to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, who promises rest and guidance.
Inexhaustible Supply of Deity
By Major Ian Thomas0PHP 2:6Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate truth about God and humanity, demonstrating that He is the perfect representation of what it means to be human as intended by God. He highlights that Jesus, though divine, willingly humbled Himself to become a servant and fully embraced the human experience, showcasing the relationship God desires with mankind. Thomas asserts that in His perfection, Jesus had access to the limitless resources of deity, which are also available to those who align themselves with God. The sermon calls believers to recognize their potential to tap into God's inexhaustible supplies through their relationship with Christ.
A Safe Messiah
By Shane Idleman1749:49LUK 1:26Shane Idleman emphasizes the concept of a 'Safe Messiah,' warning against the cultural tendency to sanitize Jesus and make Him palatable, rather than acknowledging His true nature as both a gentle lamb and a powerful lion. He reflects on C.S. Lewis's insights about the demonic realm's efforts to distract believers from the true meaning of Christmas, urging the congregation to embrace the unsanitized reality of Christ. Idleman encourages believers to confront their fears about meeting Jesus, highlighting that true safety is found in a relationship with Him, who holds all authority and power. He calls for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in empowering believers to live boldly and proclaim the Gospel. Ultimately, he invites listeners to run to the 'very safe Messiah' who offers salvation and hope amidst a world filled with darkness.
1 John 1:3
By John Gill0JHN 1:14JHN 15:15ROM 8:152CO 13:14EPH 2:19PHP 3:20COL 1:271TI 2:5HEB 4:141JN 1:3John Gill emphasizes the importance of declaring the person and offices of Christ as central to the Gospel message, highlighting His dual nature as both God and man, and His role as the sole Mediator between God and humanity. He explains that this declaration aims to foster fellowship among believers, allowing them to share in the spiritual blessings and privileges of being part of God's family. Gill further elaborates on the intimate relationship believers have with the Father and the Son, underscoring the joy and assurance found in this fellowship through the Holy Spirit.
Christ in Isaiah
By H.J. Vine0ISA 7:14ISA 9:6H.J. Vine explores the profound significance of Christ as revealed in the book of Isaiah, emphasizing that Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies as 'the Woman's Seed,' 'Abraham's Seed,' and 'David's Seed.' He highlights the dual nature of Christ, who embodies both divine majesty and human humility, as seen in His titles such as 'Emmanuel' and 'Prince of Peace.' Vine encourages believers to recognize the depth of Christ's glory and the treasures found in the Scriptures, asserting that the Holy Spirit reveals these truths to those who seek Him. The sermon culminates in the assurance that Christ, the 'Tried Stone,' is the foundation of faith and the source of eternal hope for all who believe.