True Spirituality
True Spirituality8
(Knowing God's Way) 15. Seeing the Glory of Christ and Partaking of It
By Zac Poonen0NUM 6:23PSA 1:5LUK 10:38JHN 1:4ROM 6:221CO 1:302CO 3:182CO 11:3PHP 2:8Zac Poonen emphasizes the transformative power of beholding the glory of Christ, which leads believers to be changed into His likeness from glory to glory. He warns against the dangers of mere religious activity that lacks true Christlikeness, highlighting that true ministry is about inner transformation rather than external righteousness. Poonen stresses the importance of simple devotion to Christ, cautioning against being led astray by religious works that do not reflect the character of Jesus. He encourages believers to renounce dishonesty and craftiness, focusing instead on the humility and purity that come from a genuine relationship with Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of the glory of Christ, which is essential for true spiritual growth and fellowship among believers.
The Mark of Humility
By K.P. Yohannan0LUK 18:9K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the critical importance of humility in the life of a believer, contrasting the prideful Pharisee with the humble tax collector from Luke 18:9-14. He points out that true spirituality is marked by humility, and that a lack of it reveals counterfeit faith. Yohannan encourages believers to recognize their unworthiness and to seek God's mercy, just as the tax collector did. He highlights that humility cannot be manufactured but must come from a genuine relationship with Christ, who empowers us to serve others selflessly. The sermon concludes with a call to practice humility, as it leads to greater love and compassion for others, reflecting the character of Christ.
When Fish Catch the Fisherman
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 7:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true spirituality has always been a minority experience, often at odds with popular opinion. He argues that when Christianity becomes widely accepted, it risks losing its essence and power, as seen in the historical context where popular movements led to the persecution of true believers. Tozer warns that the majority is often misguided, and standing firm in God's truth can be both unpopular and perilous. He reflects on how the early church, despite being a minority, held a moral authority that was formidable against evil, contrasting it with the later dilution of faith when Christianity became mainstream. Ultimately, he suggests that the church has struggled to regain its spiritual vitality after succumbing to cultural pressures.
The Unseen Work Within the Heart
By David Wilkerson0ROM 8:282CO 4:18JAS 1:2David Wilkerson emphasizes that true spirituality cannot be replicated through rituals or knowledge alone, as many modern Christians mistakenly believe. He warns against the counterfeit practices that mimic early church customs without the genuine presence of the Holy Spirit. Wilkerson highlights that true spiritual growth is an unseen work within the heart, often revealed through suffering and trials. He points out that while not all suffering leads to spiritual maturity, those who yield to the Holy Spirit during afflictions can emerge with a stronger faith. Ultimately, it is the Holy Spirit that cultivates true spirituality, not human effort or tradition.
(Secrets of Victory) 15. Words of Wisdom
By Zac Poonen0MAT 5:3MAT 7:3ROM 12:31CO 13:12CO 9:7GAL 5:16PHP 2:3HEB 12:1JAS 4:61PE 5:6Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of humility and the true spirit of the law over mere adherence to its letter. He explains that pride is the root of sin and that true humility opens the door to God's grace, allowing believers to overcome challenges and serve others selflessly. Poonen highlights the necessity of seeing life from God's perspective and the value of giving over receiving, asserting that spiritual maturity is reflected in our relationships with others. He warns against the dangers of pride and the emptiness of glory that does not honor God, urging believers to live faithfully and in accordance with God's will. Ultimately, he calls for a life of true spirituality that reflects Christ's nature and love.
(New Wine in New Wineskins) 14. God's Blessing or God's Approval?
By Zac Poonen0REV 7:9Zac Poonen emphasizes the distinction between seeking God's blessings and seeking His approval, highlighting that many believers are content with material blessings while neglecting a deeper, God-centered life. He contrasts two groups in Revelation: a vast multitude blessed by God and a smaller group who have God's approval for their faithful lives. Poonen warns that material blessings do not equate to God's approval, as seen in biblical examples where God blessed disobedient ministries. True spirituality involves a shift from self-centeredness to a life focused on pleasing God and serving others. Ultimately, the goal is to have the testimony of pleasing God, as exemplified by Jesus and the faithful in Scripture.
A Servant of God
By K.P. Yohannan0LUK 2:10K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the joyful and celebratory nature of Jesus as a servant of God, contrasting it with cultural perceptions of spirituality that prioritize solemnity and asceticism. He reflects on how his initial discomfort with portrayals of Jesus laughing and engaging joyfully with people led him to re-examine the Gospels, discovering a Jesus who brought hope and happiness to those around Him. Yohannan argues that true spirituality is not about renouncing joy but embracing the light and joy that Jesus offers to a troubled world. He highlights that the announcement of Jesus' birth was filled with joy, not sorrow, underscoring the message of hope He brings.
That Which Is Spiritual Cannot Be Duplicated
By David Wilkerson0ACT 20:212CO 4:18David Wilkerson emphasizes that true spirituality cannot be duplicated by human effort or knowledge, as it is solely the work of the Holy Spirit. He warns against the modern misconception that imparting biblical knowledge can create spiritual growth, asserting that only the Holy Spirit can produce genuine spirituality, often revealed through suffering and affliction. Wilkerson highlights that true spiritual growth often occurs in difficult times, as believers learn and grow through their trials. He references Paul's experiences, illustrating that afflictions serve to produce eternal values and a deeper understanding of God's glory. Ultimately, the sermon calls for reliance on the Holy Spirit for true spiritual transformation.