The Nature of Death
The Nature of Death4
Devour Me, Devour Me!
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 116:15ISA 25:8JHN 11:25ROM 6:231CO 15:55PHP 1:231TH 4:142TI 4:7HEB 2:14REV 21:4Thomas Brooks emphasizes that assurance in Christ transforms the perception of death from a fearsome enemy into a welcomed friend. He illustrates how assurance sweetens the thoughts of death, making it a desirable release from sin, sorrow, and affliction, while also being a gateway to eternal joy with God. Brooks quotes Nazianzen, who boldly invites death to 'devour' him, highlighting the Christian's hope in the resurrection and the ultimate victory over sin. The assured soul looks forward to death as a day of liberation, where all that burdens them will be left behind. Thus, for the believer, death is not to be feared but embraced as a passage to eternal life with Christ.
Of the Death of the Body.
By John Gill0GEN 3:19JOB 14:5ECC 12:7LUK 20:36ROM 6:232CO 5:1PHP 1:231TH 4:14HEB 9:27JAS 2:26John Gill addresses the concept of physical death, distinguishing it from spiritual death and emphasizing that it is a separation of the soul and body. He explores the nature of death, its inevitability for all humans regardless of status or age, and the divine sovereignty behind it. Gill explains that while death is a consequence of sin, it is also a necessary transition for believers, leading them to eternal life with Christ. He reassures that death, though formidable, is ultimately a blessing for the righteous, as it frees them from sin and sorrow.
Mary and Martha's Message to Our Lord When Their Brother Lazarus Was Sick John 11:1-16
By R.A. Torrey0JHN 11:1R.A. Torrey explores the story of Mary and Martha as they send a message to Jesus about their brother Lazarus's illness, emphasizing their faith in His ability to heal. Despite their urgent plea, Jesus delays His arrival, demonstrating that His timing is not always aligned with human expectations, but serves a greater purpose. Torrey highlights that sickness and death, even among those loved by Christ, can ultimately lead to God's glory and the strengthening of faith. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's plan, even when it seems delayed or perplexing. Ultimately, it reassures that death is not the end for those who believe in Christ, but a temporary sleep until resurrection.
The Translation
By F.B. Meyer02KI 2:11PSA 68:172CO 5:81TH 4:17F.B. Meyer reflects on the profound moment of Elijah's translation to heaven, emphasizing the significance of faith and divine intervention in overcoming obstacles, as illustrated by Elijah parting the Jordan River. He highlights the appropriateness of Elijah's departure amidst familiar landscapes, symbolizing his life's journey and the divine approval of his ministry. Meyer draws lessons on the nature of death as a transition to eternal life, urging believers to trust in God's greater plans beyond their understanding. He encourages the faithful to live with readiness for their own eventual translation, likening it to Elijah's experience and the promise of being caught up to meet the Lord. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the glory awaiting those who are faithful, as exemplified by the chariots of God prepared for each departing spirit.