John Wesley expounds on Matthew 23, where Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and scribes for their hypocrisy and failure to embody the true spirit of the law. He highlights their outward displays of piety, such as wearing phylacteries and broad fringes, while neglecting justice, mercy, and faith. Wesley emphasizes that true religion is not about mere external observance but about the inner transformation of the heart. He warns against the dangers of self-exaltation and the consequences of leading others astray. Ultimately, Wesley calls for humility and genuine faithfulness to God, contrasting the empty practices of the religious leaders with the authentic relationship God desires with His people.

Theodore Epp emphasizes that true religion, as described in James 1:26-27, is the outward expression of an inward faith in Jesus Christ. This faith naturally manifests as love for others, especially for those who cannot reciprocate, reflecting the pure and undefiled religion that God desires. Epp highlights that genuine Christianity goes beyond giving to receive and instead focuses on selfless love, mirroring Christ's love for the helpless. The evidence of being a child of God is the new desire to express this love outwardly. Ultimately, pure religion is characterized by actions rooted in faith and love for others.

Charles Finney addresses the misconceptions surrounding true religion, emphasizing that many believers equate their faith with mere feelings or passive states of mind rather than understanding it as active love and benevolence. He argues that true religion is fundamentally about love for God and others, and warns against the dangers of selfishness, which he believes is often overlooked. Finney stresses the importance of clear teaching that not only defines the philosophical nature of faith and love but also compels individuals to act on these truths. He calls for a revival of genuine understanding and practice of Christian virtues, urging ministers to present the gospel powerfully to inspire true conversions. Ultimately, he highlights that true religion is not just an intellectual understanding but an active commitment to love and serve God and others.

In this sermon, the speaker discusses the ninefold fruit of the Spirit as described by Paul. They highlight the complexity of this fruit, which consists of nine different characteristics. The sermon also references a document called "Revolution by Stealth," which outlines the objectives of atheistic communism in the Western world. The speaker then transitions to discussing the power of God, using the example of snowfall and the transformation it brings. They emphasize that God's power is at work in every person who bears the name of Jesus. The sermon includes readings from 2 Corinthians, focusing on the concept of God's power in us and the abundance of grace that God provides for every good work.

Charles Finney emphasizes the stark contrast between the hard ways of sin and the pleasant paths of holiness, illustrating that true religion is a heartfelt devotion to God that brings peace and joy. He explains that sin leads to constant turmoil and dissatisfaction, while a life devoted to God is naturally easy and fulfilling. Finney argues that true religion requires repentance, confidence in God, and a commitment to love others, which ultimately leads to a harmonious existence. He warns that a life of selfishness is a path of self-destruction, while embracing God's ways results in true happiness and fulfillment. The sermon calls for individuals to recognize the futility of sin and the joy found in a relationship with God.

John Wesley emphasizes the paramount importance of charity, or love, in the Christian faith, arguing that without it, all other virtues and actions are meaningless. He explains that true charity is a selfless love for others that springs from the love of God, and it cannot be replaced by eloquence, knowledge, faith, or good works. Wesley warns that even the most impressive acts of faith or sacrifice are worthless if not accompanied by genuine love. He concludes that true religion is defined by holy tempers, and without love, all other religious practices are futile. The preacher calls for believers to prioritize love in their lives as the essence of true faith.

Charles Finney warns about the 'Danger of Delusion' in true religion, emphasizing that genuine faith is not merely about emotions, outward actions, or opinions, but rather about a supreme intention to promote the highest good for all beings. He highlights the rarity of understanding true religion, which is essential for its existence in the soul, and stresses the dangers of losing this understanding due to selfishness and societal influences. Finney provides practical steps to retain the true idea and practice of religion, including self-examination of motives, prayer, and a commitment to disinterested benevolence.

In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of true religion and the power it holds. He discusses the three ways in which the power of true religion manifests itself: the power of God over us, the power of God in us, and the power of God through us. The speaker urges believers to not only believe in God but to also experience the power of God in their lives and exemplify it to the world. He encourages listeners to remove anything in their lives that hinders the expression of God's power in salvation.

Charles Finney emphasizes the critical responsibilities of ministers in his 'Ordination Sermon,' urging them to take heed to themselves and the doctrine they preach. He outlines the importance of self-examination, ensuring that their motives align with God's glory, and maintaining a deep understanding of true religion. Finney warns against the dangers of selfishness, ambition, and neglecting personal piety, while also stressing the necessity of a thorough grasp of the gospel to effectively lead their congregations. He concludes with the promise that by adhering to these principles, ministers can save both themselves and their hearers, reinforcing the weight of their calling.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the danger of focusing on trivial aspects of religion, as illustrated by the Pharisees who meticulously tithed their spices while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He warns that such distractions are a tactic of Satan to keep believers from engaging in the weightier matters of faith. Brooks calls for a deeper examination of one's spiritual life, urging Christians to prioritize the essence and power of their faith over mere outward appearances and ceremonies. He highlights that true hypocrisy lies in being preoccupied with minor details while ignoring the core principles of Christianity.

In this sermon, the preacher reflects on a story he heard about a little girl in the hospital who was given a glass of cold milk and told it would do her good. He then delves into the topic of religion and the division between the external form and the internal spirit of true religion. He emphasizes that the gospel itself has an inherent capacity to succeed and bring victory. The preacher acknowledges his own feeble efforts in preaching the gospel but reminds himself and the listeners that it is ultimately God who gives the gospel its power and momentum.

Charles Finney emphasizes the critical importance of governing the tongue as a reflection of true religion, arguing that a tongue not bridled by love and benevolence renders one's faith vain. He outlines the rules and conditions necessary for controlling speech, asserting that a heart filled with perfect love and entire consecration to God is essential for benevolent communication. Finney warns that without the governance of the tongue, true religion cannot exist, as idle words and selfish intentions contradict the law of love. He calls for moral courage to speak and remain silent appropriately, highlighting the need for self-examination in our speech. Ultimately, he urges believers to surrender their tongues to Christ for true sanctification and effective witness.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the distinction between external and internal duties of religion, noting that many Christians, as well as hypocrites, often focus on outward practices like attending church and participating in rituals, while neglecting the deeper, inward spiritual responsibilities. He highlights the importance of self-examination, self-resignation, and divine meditation as essential components of true faith. Brooks calls believers to engage in these inward duties to cultivate a genuine relationship with God and to apply the truths of Christ to their own lives.

F.B. Meyer shares a profound encounter on a train, discussing the limitations of imitating Christ versus experiencing His indwelling presence. He emphasizes that true religion is not merely imitation but a binding of the heart to the Lord, allowing Christ to live through us by the Holy Spirit. Meyer reflects on the transformative power of having Christ dwell within, enabling believers to express a life that mirrors His own. He concludes with the powerful truth that being joined to the Lord makes us one spirit with Him, highlighting the intimate relationship believers can have with Christ.

John Wesley emphasizes the unity of God, asserting that there is only one God, one religion, and one true happiness for all humanity. He explains that God is eternal, omnipresent, all-perfect, and omnipotent, and that true religion consists of loving God and our neighbors. Wesley warns against the many idols that distract people from seeking happiness in God, including false religions and worldly desires. He concludes that genuine happiness and religion stem from a relationship with God, which leads to benevolence towards others. The sermon calls for a return to the foundational truth that we are made to find our happiness in God alone.

Charles Finney emphasizes that true religion is characterized by selflessness and benevolence, arguing that a supreme focus on one's own happiness is inconsistent with genuine faith. He clarifies that while it is acceptable to care for one's own well-being, it should not take precedence over the welfare of others or the glory of God. Finney asserts that true happiness is found in serving others and aligning with God's will, rather than in selfish pursuits. He warns that those who prioritize their own interests above all else are deceived about their spiritual state. Ultimately, he calls for a shift from self-centeredness to a life of love and service, reflecting the nature of God.

Charles Finney emphasizes that Jesus Christ's mission was centered on doing good, healing the oppressed, and promoting the spiritual and physical well-being of humanity. He explains that Christ's actions were driven by genuine love and benevolence, not by duty or self-interest, and that true religion is about selflessly seeking the happiness of others. Finney argues that the joy of doing good is a fundamental aspect of true religion, and that believers should embody this spirit of benevolence in their lives. He warns against selfishness and encourages a life dedicated to the service and happiness of others, reflecting the heart of Christ.

A.W. Tozer addresses the issue of unlovely religious people, emphasizing that the sins of the spirit are more severe than those of the body. He illustrates how Jesus was a friend to publicans and harlots while opposing the Pharisees, highlighting that religious individuals often harbor inward sins that are more insidious. Tozer points out that while careless sinners may express their sins outwardly, religious sinners tend to conceal their iniquities, leading to a compressed state of moral tension. This inward sinfulness contributes to the unloveliness observed in many who practice religion without true heart transformation. Ultimately, all sin is fatal to the soul unless forgiven and cleansed.