Understanding God's Character
Understanding God's Character6
The One Before Whom All Shall Bow
By A.W. Tozer0PHP 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true freedom from superstition comes from a deep understanding of God's character and being, rather than relying on mere words or gestures. He argues that the devil is not intimidated by the name of Jesus as a word, but rather by the powerful Person behind that name. Tozer asserts that it is the sovereign authority of Jesus, as Lord and Christ, that causes Satan to flee, not the superstitious practices that many engage in. He encourages believers to cultivate a personal relationship with God to overcome fears rooted in superstition. Ultimately, knowing God intimately liberates us from the snares of superstition and empowers our faith.
God Is Not a Railway Porter
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 46:10PSA 95:6PRO 3:5ISA 40:12ISA 55:8JER 29:11MAT 6:33JHN 15:15ROM 11:36PHP 4:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of understanding the true character of God, urging believers to move beyond viewing Him merely as a means to fulfill their needs. He challenges the notion that God exists to serve humanity's desires, likening this misconception to treating God as a railway porter. Instead, Tozer calls for a deeper relationship with God, recognizing Him as the Creator who holds the universe in His hands and deserves our reverence and worship. He encourages believers to acknowledge their position as servants of God rather than expecting Him to cater to their demands.
Altering God's Image
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 119:160ISA 55:8MAL 3:6HEB 13:8JAS 1:17A.W. Tozer addresses the dangers of altering God's image, emphasizing that misconceptions about God's character lead to superstition and fear. He argues that viewing God as whimsical and unpredictable fosters irrational beliefs and practices, such as fears surrounding black cats and omens. Tozer highlights that these superstitions stem from a distorted understanding of God, who is not a playful trickster but a sovereign being. The sermon calls for a deeper knowledge of God's true nature to combat these unfounded fears and superstitions.
Superstitious Shadows
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 55:8MAT 15:9JHN 4:24ROM 10:171CO 13:122TI 3:16HEB 11:6JAS 1:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true faith honors God by accepting His revealed character, while superstition degrades His reputation by believing in unworthy notions. He argues that even genuine Christians may harbor superstitions that distort their understanding of God, leading to erroneous beliefs. Tozer warns that these misconceptions, if uncorrected by Scripture and the Holy Spirit, can compound into serious sin against God. He challenges the audience to examine their beliefs and rid themselves of any superstitious elements that dishonor the divine. Ultimately, he calls for a faith rooted in truth rather than fancy.
Revelation of God's Glory
By Charles Finney0EXO 33:12Charles Finney emphasizes the significance of understanding God's glory as essential for spiritual leadership and personal faith. He explores Moses' earnest prayer for a deeper revelation of God's character, highlighting the necessity of knowing God's goodness and moral attributes to fulfill one's divine calling. Finney asserts that God's response to Moses illustrates His willingness to reveal Himself to those who seek Him sincerely, and that such revelations are crucial for sustaining faith and fulfilling God's work. The sermon encourages believers to persistently seek God's glory, recognizing that a true understanding of His character is foundational for effective ministry and personal transformation.
Counsel Based on Logic Alone
By Theodore Epp0JOB 11:1Theodore Epp discusses the character of Zophar, who represents dogmatic reasoning based on personal intuition rather than a true understanding of God's nature. Zophar's rigid conclusions lead him to wrongly accuse Job of sin, reflecting how some people today react with scorn towards differing opinions. Epp emphasizes that while Zophar possessed some truth, it was incomplete and distorted, ultimately causing more harm than good. God allowed Zophar's arguments to challenge Job, aiming to refine Job's character and humility rather than to punish him for sin. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours, urging humility in our understanding.