A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true faith is demonstrated through obedience to Jesus, rather than mere verbal acknowledgment of His Lordship. He points out that modern Christians struggle not with understanding the Bible, but with allowing their hearts to accept its teachings and making Jesus the true Lord of their lives. Tozer warns against the superficiality of playing at religion, where one may appear sincere while still holding onto worldly desires and resisting Christ's authority. He calls for a genuine commitment to leave behind worldly influences and to pursue a real relationship with God, rather than just performing religious acts.

Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of true submission to God, distinguishing between mere desire and genuine willingness to follow Him. He warns against self-deception, where individuals confuse emotions, conviction, and legalistic reformation with true faith and repentance. Finney argues that without true submission, salvation is impossible, as it requires a complete alignment of one's will with God's. He concludes that true submission leads to inevitable salvation, characterized by peace and happiness, regardless of external circumstances. The sermon calls for a deep examination of one's heart to ensure that true submission and consecration to God are present.

Zac Poonen emphasizes the critical role of genuine repentance as the foundation for entering God's kingdom, highlighting that many believers today lack the depth of faith due to insufficient repentance. He explains that true repentance involves a complete turning away from sin and idols, and it must be accompanied by a willingness to make restitution for wrongs done. Poonen warns against false repentance, using biblical examples to illustrate the difference between mere regret and true transformation. He encourages believers to forgive others and to renounce any ties with evil, asserting that a life of continual repentance is essential for spiritual growth. Ultimately, he stresses that without a solid foundation of repentance and faith, one's Christian life will be unstable.

A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound misunderstanding of Christ's declaration 'It is finished,' warning against the false sense of security that leads many to believe they can live unholy lives while claiming faith in Christ. He argues that the completion of Christ's work does not exempt believers from the call to holiness and obedience to God's commands. Pink highlights the danger of a superficial faith that lacks genuine repentance and transformation, urging believers to examine their lives for true evidence of faith. He stresses that Christ's sacrifice was not to grant indulgence for sin but to empower believers to live righteously. Ultimately, Pink calls for a deep, personal reflection on the implications of Christ's finished work in the life of every believer.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that while God's grace is freely given, the notion that salvation costs nothing is a dangerous misconception. He argues that true faith is not universally possessed but is a rare gift that flourishes in a repentant heart. Tozer warns against the idea that faith can be activated at will, asserting that genuine faith is tied to the recognition of one's sinfulness and need for God's mercy. He stresses that salvation and discipleship come with a price, highlighting the importance of understanding the true cost of following Christ.

John Wesley emphasizes the importance of refraining from judgment, urging believers to focus on their own faults before addressing others. He warns that the measure we use to judge others will be the same measure applied to us by God, highlighting the need for mercy and love in our interactions. Wesley also cautions against false prophets who lead others astray with teachings that deviate from the narrow path of holiness. He concludes by affirming that true faith is demonstrated through actions, not mere verbal professions of belief, and that genuine followers of Christ will bear good fruit in their lives.

J.C. Ryle emphasizes the grave warning of Jesus to 'Remember Lot's wife,' highlighting her tragic fate despite her religious privileges. Lot's wife, who had the opportunity to witness the faith of righteous men and the miraculous escape from Sodom, ultimately perished due to her attachment to the world and lack of true faith. Ryle warns that mere possession of religious privileges does not guarantee salvation, as many can be surrounded by spiritual advantages yet remain unconverted. He urges listeners to seek the grace of the Holy Spirit, which is essential for true transformation and salvation. The sermon serves as a call to self-examination for all who enjoy religious privileges, reminding them that without genuine faith, they risk the same fate as Lot's wife.

In this sermon, the preacher shares two powerful illustrations to explain the impact of conversion on a person's life. The first illustration involves a man who realizes his wrongdoings and feels miserable after a confrontation. He seeks forgiveness from God and apologizes to his wife, demonstrating a genuine repentance and change of heart. The second illustration portrays a believer who faces pressure and frustration in his daily life. However, despite his initial outburst, his conversion has brought him a deep understanding of God's grace and forgiveness, leading to a sense of joy and peace in the midst of challenges. The sermon emphasizes that conversion brings about a transformative experience where individuals see themselves and their sin in a new light, leading to repentance and ultimately, joy in Christ.

Andrew Murray emphasizes the distinction between two types of preaching: one that relies on human wisdom and eloquence, which Christ forbade, and another that demonstrates the Spirit's power. He argues that true faith must be rooted in a personal communion with God, rather than in the wisdom of man, which is weak and unstable. Murray warns that relying on persuasive speech can nullify the power of the cross, as it detracts from the divine working of the Holy Spirit. The sermon calls for a return to preaching that is grounded in the supernatural power of God, which transforms lives and communities. Ultimately, Murray encourages believers to seek a deeper experience of God's operation in their lives.

Robert Murray M'Cheyne delivers a poignant message about the barren fig tree, symbolizing the spiritual state of individuals who appear outwardly flourishing but lack true fruitfulness in their lives. He reflects on the patience of the master who seeks fruit for three years, paralleling God's desire for genuine faith and obedience from His followers. M'Cheyne urges listeners to examine their own hearts, recognizing that mere appearances of faith are insufficient without the evidence of good works and love. He emphasizes that true faith is demonstrated through actions that reflect Christ's teachings, calling for a deeper commitment to spiritual growth and fruitfulness.

Erlo Stegen emphasizes the critical question of whether the Lord truly knows us, using the parable of the ten virgins to illustrate the importance of being prepared and filled with the Holy Spirit. He warns against being like the foolish virgins who, despite their claims of knowing the Lord, were unprepared and ultimately shut out when the bridegroom arrived. Stegen highlights that true faith requires action and obedience to God's will, and that the cost of discipleship is significant, demanding a complete commitment to God. He urges listeners to examine their spiritual state and to seek a genuine relationship with Christ, rather than a superficial acknowledgment. The sermon challenges believers to live out their faith fully, ensuring they are known by the Lord.

A.W. Pink emphasizes that true obedience to Christ is essential for honoring Him, which goes beyond mere church attendance or financial contributions. He argues that many Christians are deceived into thinking they are saved while their hearts remain unchanged, highlighting the necessity of living in accordance with God's commandments. Pink stresses that obedience is not just about external actions but involves a heartfelt submission to God's will, which is rooted in love for Him. He warns against the dangers of being mere hearers of the Word without incorporating it into daily life, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with God through obedience. Ultimately, Pink concludes that true spiritual obedience is a reflection of a transformed heart that delights in God's law.

J.C. Ryle emphasizes the importance of seeking spiritual nourishment over physical sustenance, as illustrated in John 6:26-27. He critiques the shallow motives of those who followed Jesus merely for material gain, highlighting that true faith should be rooted in a desire for everlasting life. Ryle encourages believers to labor for spiritual food that nourishes the soul, rather than being consumed by the temporary satisfaction of bodily needs. He reassures that Jesus, the Son of Man, is willing to provide this eternal sustenance to all who seek it, regardless of their past motives. Ultimately, Ryle calls for honesty in our spiritual pursuits and the necessity of actively engaging in practices that promote our spiritual well-being.

A.W. Pink emphasizes that true obedience to God is essential for honoring Christ, which goes beyond mere church attendance or financial contributions. He argues that many Christians are deceived into thinking they are saved while living unchanged lives, failing to recognize that obedience to God's commandments is a true expression of love for Him. Pink stresses that genuine obedience stems from a heart transformed by grace, leading to a sincere desire to follow God's will in all aspects of life. He warns against the dangers of mere knowledge without application, urging believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through active obedience to His Word.

Paris Reidhead emphasizes the distinction between true believers and false professors in his sermon 'Wheat or Chaff.' He explains that true followers of Christ are transformed from the inside out, possessing a new heart and spirit, and are characterized by their desire to please God in every aspect of their lives. Reidhead warns against the dangers of a superficial faith that merely follows religious practices without genuine commitment to Christ as Lord. He encourages listeners to examine their lives for evidence of true transformation and to seek a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of repentance and brokenness before the Lord. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to walk the narrow path that leads to life, contrasting it with the broad way that leads to destruction.

A.W. Tozer addresses the misconception of 'instant Christianity,' emphasizing that while conversion can be a sudden experience, true spiritual growth requires ongoing effort and character development. He warns against the belief that a single act of faith can absolve us of all spiritual responsibilities, urging believers to seek a deeper relationship with Christ and to embody their faith through their character. Tozer highlights the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives and the necessity of continual growth in faith, rather than relying solely on past experiences.

Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the journey to spiritual fullness as outlined in 2 Peter 1:1-11, highlighting that true faith, which comes from Jesus Christ, is essential for believers. He explains that this faith should lead to moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love, all of which are manifestations of Christ's character in us. The preacher encourages the congregation to focus on Jesus, as genuine faith not only originates from Him but also directs us back to Him for strength and transformation. By diligently applying faith, believers can escape worldly corruption and grow into the likeness of Christ, fulfilling God's intention for their lives. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to seek Christ continually, allowing His divine nature to produce these qualities within us.

In this sermon, the preacher discusses a confrontation between two realities: the reality of Satan, the false usurper, and the reality of God. This showdown has been ongoing since the beginning of time and will culminate in a final conflict at the end of the age. The preacher emphasizes the importance of watching and fasting, as these practices deny the desires of the flesh and align us with God's will. The sermon also highlights the need to recognize that God's reality is true and powerful, even though it may seem invisible compared to the false values and illusions of the world.

Thomas Brooks warns against the hypocrisy of those who profess faith outwardly while harboring sin in their hearts. He emphasizes that many individuals may speak of God but live in contradiction to their profession, indulging in and defending their sinful behaviors. Such individuals not only shame their faith but also risk eternal ruin as they remain under God's wrath. Brooks calls for self-examination and repentance, urging believers to align their hearts and actions with their professed faith.

J.C. Ryle emphasizes the dire warning of Jesus to 'Remember Lot’s wife,' illustrating the peril of worldliness and the futility of relying solely on religious privileges without true faith. Lot's wife, despite her religious background and the privileges she enjoyed, looked back at Sodom and faced immediate judgment, serving as a cautionary tale for believers today. Ryle urges Christians to examine their hearts and ensure they are not merely going through the motions of faith while being attached to worldly desires. He warns that many who seem to be on the path to salvation may ultimately be lost if they do not genuinely embrace the grace of the Holy Spirit. The sermon serves as a call to vigilance and sincerity in one's faith, reminding listeners of the reality of judgment and the importance of true conversion.

John Gill emphasizes the significance of abiding in Christ, likening it to a branch's connection to a vine, which provides essential spiritual sustenance. He clarifies that while believers may still sin, they do not live in a continuous state of sin, as this contradicts their relationship with Christ. Gill warns that those who persist in sin demonstrate a lack of true faith and communion with Christ, indicating they have not genuinely seen or known Him. The sermon highlights the importance of a transformative relationship with Jesus that leads to a life reflecting His holiness.

In this sermon, the preacher examines a critical text found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which recounts the episode of the Mount of Transfiguration and the Valley of Despair. The preacher ponders whether the conjunction of these two events is accidental or intentional and explores the significance of this conjunction. The sermon focuses on the encounter between Jesus and a crowd arguing with his disciples, where a man brings his son who is possessed by a spirit. Jesus rebukes the faithless generation and heals the boy, highlighting the disappointment and depression Jesus experiences when his disciples fail him. The preacher encourages the audience to consider their appetite for valley experiences in their faith journey and emphasizes the allegorical significance of the boy's affliction.