The Role of the Church
The Role of the Church16
The Truth That We Believe
By Zac Poonen0MAT 11:25MAT 28:19JHN 8:32JHN 13:35ROM 8:161CO 14:20EPH 2:81TI 4:162TI 2:15HEB 12:14Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of balancing our life and doctrine in the Christian faith, as both are essential for stability and salvation. He warns against the dangers of overemphasizing certain doctrines at the expense of others, which can lead to heresy and misunderstanding of God's truth. Poonen highlights the importance of diligent study of Scripture, guided by the Holy Spirit, to grasp the fullness of God's revelation, including the nature of Christ and the process of salvation. He also discusses the role of the church as the body of Christ, where every member contributes to its function, and stresses the importance of love and unity among believers. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to the truth that liberates and transforms lives.
Mentality, or Attitude of Mind
By T. Austin-Sparks0LUK 6:38LUK 9:24LUK 14:27ROM 12:32CO 10:3PHP 2:7T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical importance of mentality in spiritual warfare, arguing that a wrong mindset can lead to defeat while a right mindset fosters victory. He warns against viewing Jesus merely as a source of personal gain, advocating instead for a mentality focused on giving everything to Him. Sparks also addresses misconceptions about the Christian life, the Church, ministries, and our relationships with others, urging believers to recognize their roles in the ongoing spiritual battle. He concludes that a proper understanding of oneself and others is essential for unity and effectiveness in the fight against spiritual adversaries.
The Nations in the Purposes of God
By Art Katz0DEU 32:8PSA 2:1PSA 2:6ISA 9:6EPH 3:10Art Katz emphasizes the significance of nations in God's divine plan, urging the church to shift its focus from individual salvation to the collective responsibility of nations to recognize their Creator. He highlights the centrality of Israel in God's purposes and the church's role in demonstrating God's wisdom to the world. Katz warns against the dangers of nationalism and the rebellion of nations against God, calling for a prophetic church that understands its mission in the context of God's eternal purposes. He stresses the need for humility and reliance on God, as well as the importance of the church's prophetic function in the face of rising anti-Semitism and global turmoil.
The Living Church Reveals the Living Person
By G. Campbell Morgan0MAT 5:141TI 3:15G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes that the Church of the living God must reveal the Person of Christ to be meaningful and effective. He argues that without Christ, the Church is merely an empty structure, lacking purpose and value. The Church serves as the instrument through which Jesus shows Himself to the world, and if it fails to proclaim His Word, it becomes a mere noise without substance. Morgan highlights the necessity of the Church in making the light of Christ visible and accessible to humanity, asserting that the true essence of the Church lies in its ability to reflect and communicate the teachings of Jesus.
A Simple Outline of the Book of Revelation
By Mike Bickle241:04:46PSA 2:8ISA 63:1HAB 3:12MAT 16:18EPH 1:9REV 1:1REV 6:1REV 17:1REV 19:11REV 21:1Mike Bickle presents a comprehensive overview of the Book of Revelation, emphasizing that it is not about the end of the world but the end of the age, where heaven and earth will be united. He explains that the book reveals Jesus as the central figure and outlines His plan to confront evil and establish His kingdom on earth. Bickle highlights the importance of the church's role in the Great Tribulation, portraying it as a time for the church to actively participate in God's judgments against the Antichrist rather than being passive victims. He encourages believers to understand Revelation as a strategic battle plan and a prayer manual, equipping them for the challenges ahead. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, as God's judgments are portrayed as necessary for the triumph of love and justice.
Brownsville Revival, Part 2
By David Ravenhill5552:241CH 16:8ACT 15:14David Ravenhill emphasizes the significance of God's calling on Israel and the church's role in reaching the nations. He explains that the tabernacle of David was not just about worship but also about bringing the nations to God. Ravenhill highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, as seen in the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and how the church, as the new Israel, is tasked with proclaiming the gospel to all nations. He draws connections between the Old Testament promises and their fulfillment in Christ, urging believers to recognize their responsibility in sharing God's wonders among the peoples.
The Divine Discontent.
By T. Austin-Sparks0MAT 16:18JHN 12:24ACT 13:46ROM 6:6GAL 2:20EPH 1:22T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of 'Divine Discontent' as a crucial element in the life of the Church, both universal and local. He explains that true recognition of the Church must stem from a spiritual crisis rather than mere dissatisfaction with traditional systems. This Divine Discontent is not a negative frustration but a profound yearning for God's fullness, leading individuals to seek a deeper relationship with Christ. Sparks highlights that the Church should be a response to God's dissatisfaction, embodying His purpose and commitment to the fullness of Christ. Ultimately, he asserts that the Cross must be central to the Church's identity and mission, guiding its members toward spiritual maturity and obedience to the Holy Spirit.
Why and How Do We Stand With Israel?
By Mike Bickle231:02:05PSA 132:13ISA 2:2JER 3:17ZEC 8:2MAT 5:35MAT 23:37ROM 11:18ROM 11:25REV 20:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of standing with Israel and praying for the peace of Jerusalem, highlighting that true peace can only come through Jesus, the Prince of Peace. He reflects on the growing global awareness and participation in prayer for Israel, noting the prophetic call he received 27 years ago to focus on this mission. Bickle explains that the salvation of Israel is intricately linked to the Gentile church, urging believers to understand their role in God's plan for Jerusalem. He warns of the spiritual battle surrounding this city, where both Jesus and Satan vie for control, and calls for unity and action among Christians to support Israel. Ultimately, he encourages believers to engage deeply with Romans 11 to grasp the divine purpose for Israel and the church's responsibility in this end-time narrative.
What Is Your Vision?
By Leonard Ravenhill02CO 6:3Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the critical need for ministers to have a vision rooted in eternity rather than the immediate, urging them to reflect on their responsibilities and the weight of their words before God. He draws parallels between the struggles of biblical figures like Paul, Moses, and Elijah, highlighting their endurance and focus on the unseen eternal truths amidst worldly distractions. Ravenhill calls for a revival of prayer and a deeper understanding of the church's role as the bride of Christ, stressing the urgency of living with eternity's values in view. He challenges the complacency of modern believers, reminding them of the suffering of Christians worldwide and the need for genuine repentance and spiritual awakening. Ultimately, he implores ministers to seek a closer relationship with God and to be examples of faithfulness in a world that desperately needs hope.
Reprobates and Trembling Nations
By Carter Conlon5.7K40:12ROM 1:15Carter Conlon delivers a powerful sermon on 'Reprobates and Trembling Nations,' emphasizing the consequences of turning away from God and the darkness that envelops nations that reject His truth. He warns that a society that once knew the light can fall into deeper darkness, as seen in Romans 1, where God gives people over to a reprobate mind due to their unrighteousness. Conlon calls for the church to rise up and fulfill its purpose by reaching out to the needy and living out the principles of Christ, rather than succumbing to pride and idleness. He urges believers to embrace the true gospel and to be active in the vineyard of God, promising that those who do will experience His light and blessings. The sermon concludes with a call to action for individuals to turn from sin and step into the light of Christ.
The Church - the Anointed Vessel
By T. Austin-Sparks0NUM 3:5EZK 28:14ACT 10:38ACT 19:2ROM 12:41CO 1:261CO 2:42CO 1:21EPH 4:111JN 2:27T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Church as the Anointed Vessel, highlighting the various expressions of the Holy Spirit's work, particularly the anointing. He explains that the anointing signifies God's commitment and presence, both in the Old and New Testaments, and that the Church, constituted by the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, carries the implication of God in the world. The anointing is not based on human choice but is a divine act that grants each member a specific function and purpose within the body of Christ. Sparks warns against the dangers of disregarding the anointing, which can lead to confusion and division, and stresses that every function, no matter how humble, is valuable when anointed. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the Church's nature and the importance of the anointing in fulfilling God's purpose.
"A Watchman"
By T. Austin-Sparks0EZK 3:17EZK 33:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical role of purpose in human life, asserting that without a sense of purpose, individuals experience emptiness and despair. He highlights the biblical concept of the 'Watchman,' a role that the Church and its leaders must embody to guide and protect God's people, especially in times of spiritual decline. The Watchman is tasked with understanding and proclaiming God's eternal purpose, ensuring that the Church remains focused on its divine calling. Sparks warns against the dangers of losing sight of this purpose, as seen in Israel's history, and calls for a return to a vibrant, purpose-driven faith. Ultimately, he stresses that the Church must be vigilant and faithful in its mission to reflect Christ's significance in God's eternal plan.
God's Plan for Israel: Four Essential Parts
By Mike Bickle131:07:57ISA 40:1ZEC 13:8MAT 28:19JHN 3:16ACT 3:19ROM 1:16ROM 11:25GAL 3:28EPH 2:14REV 7:9Mike Bickle emphasizes God's enduring plan for Israel, asserting that the church has not replaced Israel but rather has a role in provoking Israel to jealousy through the gospel. He highlights the temporary spiritual blindness of Israel and the importance of understanding Romans 11, which outlines four essential parts of God's plan: Israel's temporary blindness, the fullness of the Gentiles, the eventual salvation of all Israel, and the restoration of Israel's national calling. Bickle urges believers to stand with Israel in love and truth, recognizing the unique national assignment that Israel holds in God's redemptive plan. He calls for a deeper biblical understanding among Christians to foster a spirit of grace and support for Israel, especially in times of crisis.
The Mystery of the Wisdom of God
By Art Katz0EPH 3:3Art Katz emphasizes that the mystery of God's wisdom is not for mere curiosity but is to be actively demonstrated through the church. He explains that this mystery reveals that Gentiles are now fellow heirs with Jewish believers in Christ, showcasing the manifold wisdom of God to the spiritual authorities. Katz argues that the church must embody this wisdom, which is contrary to worldly values, by living selflessly and trusting in God's provision, even in adversity. He illustrates this through the example of Elijah, who relied solely on God's word rather than visible circumstances. Ultimately, the church's authentic demonstration of God's wisdom is what will defeat the powers of darkness.
Exploring Israel's Deliverance Through Zion
By Art Katz0PSA 14:7PSA 24:7PSA 102:16EZK 20:35HOS 2:14MAT 5:8ACT 3:21ROM 8:19ROM 11:11ROM 11:26Art Katz explores the profound theme of Israel's deliverance through Zion, emphasizing that the ultimate salvation of Israel is tied to the character of the King and His Kingdom, which is embodied in a mature Church. He highlights the necessity for the Church to undergo sanctification and to embody the character of God in order to fulfill its role as an agent of restoration for Israel. Katz draws parallels between the prophetic Scriptures and the Church's responsibility to provoke Israel to jealousy through its own transformation and holiness. He underscores that true dedication to God is essential for the Church to be a powerful instrument in the Last Days, preparing for the return of Christ and the fulfillment of God's promises. The sermon calls for a deep seeking of God and a commitment to holiness as the Church prepares for its pivotal role in the eschatological events to come.
Seven Stars and Seven Candlesticks
By Paris Reidhead1.5K53:06REV 1:12Paris Reidhead emphasizes the significance of the seven stars and seven candlesticks in Revelation, illustrating how Christ, now exalted, holds authority over the church and its leaders. He contrasts the humble Jesus of the Gospels with the glorified Christ who walks among the churches, urging believers to recognize their responsibility to reflect His light in a dark world. Reidhead calls for a total abandonment to Christ's will, asserting that every Christian is called to full-time service, regardless of their secular roles. He stresses the importance of the local church as the primary means through which Christ reveals Himself and encourages believers to live in a way that honors this calling. Ultimately, he challenges the church to be a vibrant witness of Christ's glory in a disillusioned world.