The Presence of God
The Presence of God15
Portview Christian Center
By David Ravenhill3157:16EXO 33:15PSA 42:1David Ravenhill emphasizes the importance of the presence of God in the life of believers, illustrating that true satisfaction and identity come from knowing God rather than merely possessing material blessings. He draws parallels between the longing for God's presence and the relationship dynamics found in the Song of Solomon, highlighting that a genuine relationship with God is essential for spiritual fulfillment. Ravenhill warns against the dangers of focusing on the 'parts' of faith, such as prosperity or doctrine, instead of the whole, which is a relationship with Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to prioritize intimacy with God over worldly desires, reminding them that true distinction comes from His presence. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed hunger for God, urging the congregation to open their hearts and seek a deeper connection with Him.
Friends of the Bridegroom (Pt. 6)
By Michael Koulianos3638:05NUM 16:1Michael Koulianos emphasizes the importance of honoring God's presence over the idol of time management in church services, arguing that the feelings of the Holy Spirit should take precedence over the comfort of attendees. He warns against the spirit of Korah, which seeks power and recognition, and stresses that true ministry is about serving rather than seeking a platform. Koulianos calls for a lifestyle of faithfulness that prioritizes the glory of God and encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with Him in the secret place. He highlights the need for humility and the dangers of rebellion against God’s appointed authority, reminding the congregation that true growth comes from being in the presence of God rather than merely filling seats.
The Church- God's Habitation Through the Spirit
By John Nelson Darby0EPH 2:19John Nelson Darby emphasizes that the Church is a habitation of God through the Spirit, highlighting the dual nature of the Church's existence: its future glory and its present reality. He explains that while the Church awaits its inheritance in glory, it currently enjoys a unique communion with God, who dwells among His people. This presence is made possible through the redemptive work of Christ, which allows believers to be filled with the Spirit and experience God's grace. Darby stresses the importance of recognizing the Church as God's dwelling place, which carries both privilege and responsibility for holiness. Ultimately, he calls for believers to understand and embrace the profound truth of God's presence in their lives.
David Brought the Ark to Jerusalem (2 Sam. 6)
By Mike Bickle1854:562SA 6:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's history. This act symbolizes the establishment of God's presence in the city, which would later be recognized as the city of the great King, Jesus. Bickle highlights the importance of approaching God's presence with reverence and following His prescribed ways, as seen in the tragic incident with Uzzah, who died for touching the Ark. The sermon also reflects on the need for a generation after God's own heart, drawing parallels between David's life and the church today. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a return to honoring God's presence and understanding the weight of His glory in our worship and lives.
Word & Spirit Conference, Session 4
By David Ravenhill181:02:10EXO 33:15JOB 26:14PSA 27:4PSA 42:1JER 9:24MAT 6:332CO 1:20PHP 3:10COL 2:3REV 3:20David Ravenhill emphasizes the necessity of embracing both the Word of God and the Spirit of God in our lives, advocating for a balance that avoids the pitfalls of focusing solely on one aspect. He illustrates the importance of seeking God's presence above all else, using the example of Moses who prioritized God's presence over the promised land. Ravenhill warns against the dangers of fragmenting God's truth into parts, urging believers to pursue a holistic understanding centered on Christ. He encourages a deep longing for God's presence, akin to David's desire, and highlights that true fulfillment comes from knowing God intimately rather than merely seeking His blessings.
Have You Seen the One My Heart Loves?
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 30:5PSA 42:1PSA 51:11SNG 3:1ISA 59:2MAT 5:6JHN 14:18JAS 4:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound sorrow that accompanies the loss of God's gracious presence, illustrating that this loss is the most significant and embittering of all. He reflects on the deep longing for God, as expressed in the Song of Solomon, and how the absence of divine companionship can overshadow all other worldly losses. Brooks urges believers to remain humble and recognize that no earthly comfort can replace the joy of God's presence, which is essential for the soul. He warns that recovering this divine presence requires earnest effort, including heartfelt prayers and tears.
The Ministry of Comfort - Part 2
By J.R. Miller0JHN 11:25J.R. Miller emphasizes Jesus as the ultimate Comforter, illustrating His profound ability to comfort those in grief, particularly through the story of Lazarus. He explains that while Jesus offered the hope of resurrection, He also provided immediate comfort through His presence and sympathy, demonstrating that true solace comes from a personal relationship with God. Miller encourages believers to seek God Himself for comfort rather than merely relying on His gifts, asserting that God’s love is the only true source of healing in times of sorrow. He concludes by urging Christians to remember their sorrows but not to dwell on them, instead focusing on the blessings and duties that lie ahead.
When the Fire Fades
By Shane Idleman1515:06PSA 24:3Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of maintaining the fire of God's presence in our lives, urging believers to cultivate a deep hunger for God. He reflects on the Old Testament's symbolism of fire as a reminder of God's presence and challenges the congregation to examine their relationship with God, highlighting that holiness and purity are essential for experiencing His divine presence. Idleman encourages a return to a lifestyle of worship, prayer, and humility, asserting that true strength lies in being broken before God. He calls for repentance and a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit, reminding everyone that God's presence is a gift that requires our active pursuit and surrender.
The Presence of the Lord Is Power! the Presence of the Lord Is Life! the Presence of the Lord Is Holiness!
By T. Austin-Sparks0HEB 4:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the vital importance of the Lord's Presence in the lives of His people, asserting that it is essential for power, life, and holiness. He draws parallels between the Israelites' journey in the wilderness and the spiritual journey of believers today, highlighting that God's Presence is contingent upon our willingness to move forward in faith and obedience. Sparks warns against stagnation, urging believers to actively practice what they have learned from God, as true progress is rooted in daily obedience. He encourages the congregation to seek the Lord's Presence earnestly, as it is through this pursuit that they will experience fullness and enter into His rest. Ultimately, the message is a call to action, reminding believers that the Lord is with those who are committed to going on in their spiritual journey.
Ark of the Covenant (Transcription)
By Major Ian Thomas01CH 13:1Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the significance of the Ark of the Covenant as a symbol of God's presence and the necessity of restoring it to its rightful place in the lives of believers. He discusses the spiritual decline of the Church, drawing parallels between the historical context of Israel and the contemporary state of Christianity, where rituals often replace genuine relationships with God. Thomas warns against the dangers of detaching religious practices from Christ, urging the congregation to recognize that true faith must be rooted in a personal relationship with Jesus. He calls for a spiritual awakening that brings the Ark, representing Christ, back to the center of worship and life. Ultimately, he stresses that the essence of the Gospel is found in Jesus Christ, the living Word.
God Has Shown Us the Pattern: He Has Shown Us That Pattern Who Is Christ in Perfection
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 25:8ISA 41:10MAT 28:20JHN 1:14ROM 12:11CO 3:13EPH 4:15COL 1:17HEB 12:261PE 2:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the need to return to the foundational simplicity of Christianity as exemplified in Christ, contrasting it with the complexities and additions that have emerged over time. He highlights that the true essence of faith lies in the Presence of the Lord, which is embodied in Jesus Christ, the ultimate pattern for believers. Sparks urges the congregation to evaluate their practices and beliefs against this divine pattern, stressing that only what originates from God will endure through the coming shaking of all things. He illustrates the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and adhering to God's instructions, as seen in the construction of the tabernacle and the ministry of Jesus. Ultimately, he calls for a personal and communal return to the simplicity of Christ's presence in all aspects of life and ministry.
April 30 2000 Morning Service
By David Ravenhill441:07:25EXO 33:15JOB 26:14PSA 27:4PSA 42:1JER 9:23MAT 6:33JHN 15:15PHP 3:10COL 2:9REV 3:20David Ravenhill emphasizes the significance of seeking the presence of God over the pursuit of worldly desires, using the analogy of a violinist's dedication to illustrate the importance of longing for a deeper relationship with God. He reflects on the story of Moses, who faced the choice between entering the Promised Land without God's presence or remaining in the wilderness with God. Ravenhill urges the congregation to recognize that true fulfillment comes from knowing God intimately, rather than merely focusing on the 'parts' of faith. He highlights the tragic reality that many congregations hear about God's works but fail to truly know Him. The sermon concludes with a call to prioritize God's presence above all earthly treasures.
The Presence of the Lord: "The Lord Is With Us"
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 25:8NUM 14:28JHN 1:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the paramount importance of the Lord's presence among His people, asserting that no amount of prayer can guarantee it unless conditions align with His will. He illustrates that true spiritual progress is contingent upon being in harmony with God's pattern and being led by the Holy Spirit, rather than relying on human judgment or organization. Sparks warns against the dangers of moving forward without the Lord's guidance, as seen in the Israelites' failure to enter the Promised Land when they acted without His presence. He concludes that the essence of spiritual life is rooted in the recognition and experience of God's presence, which is vital for any meaningful work in the Lord's name.
Christ Corporate Is the Church
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 4:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the essence of the Church is Christ Himself, arguing that Christianity has strayed from its original simplicity and has become entangled in human systems and control. He highlights the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth, as Jesus taught, and warns against the dangers of man trying to impose his own understanding on divine matters. Sparks points out that the true Church is not defined by geography or human structures but is formed by the presence of Christ among believers. He calls for a return to the foundational principle that the Church is Christ corporate, and that the presence of the Lord is the ultimate measure of any church's validity. The sermon concludes with a reminder that in times of shaking, only what is rooted in the presence of the Lord will endure.
Genesis 3 - What Extinguishes the Presence of the Lord
By Shane Idleman1755:43GEN 3:8ROM 1:18Shane Idleman addresses the critical issue of what extinguishes the presence of the Lord, emphasizing the alarming statistics of a declining biblical worldview in America. He highlights the importance of understanding and embracing God's Word, particularly in the context of contemporary issues like gender identity and sin. Shane stresses that sin, fear, lack of desire, and pride can hinder our relationship with God, while true repentance and a hunger for His presence can restore it. He encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, reminding them that the presence of the Lord brings life, hope, and renewal amidst the chaos of the world.