Understanding Scripture
Understanding Scripture12
The Vital Value of Understanding the Word of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0ACT 8:30T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the vital importance of understanding the Word of God, arguing that many Christians stop short of a deeper comprehension that leads to true satisfaction in their faith. He highlights the Ethiopian eunuch's journey as a representation of the need for spiritual guidance and the role of the Holy Spirit in illuminating the Scriptures. Sparks asserts that understanding the Bible is not merely about gaining comfort or guidance for daily life, but about grasping the greater purpose of God’s eternal design centered in Christ. He calls for believers to seek a deeper relationship with the Scriptures, which can only be achieved through the Holy Spirit's work in their hearts. Ultimately, the sermon challenges Christians to move beyond superficial engagement with the Bible to a transformative understanding that leads to joy and fulfillment in their spiritual lives.
Then Opened He Their Understanding
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 119:18PRO 2:6MAT 11:25LUK 24:45JHN 14:261CO 2:12EPH 1:17COL 1:9JAS 1:51JN 2:27C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the unique role of Jesus in opening the understanding of His followers, contrasting Him with other teachers who can only convey knowledge without imparting true spiritual insight. He highlights that while many can present Scripture, only Christ can prepare the heart to receive its deeper truths, enabling even the unlearned to grasp the mysteries of the kingdom. Spurgeon reflects on the transformation from ignorance to understanding that occurs through the Holy Spirit, underscoring the necessity of Jesus' intervention for spiritual enlightenment. He encourages believers to seek Christ's guidance in prayer to enhance their understanding of divine truths. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for a humble approach to learning at the feet of Jesus, recognizing Him as the sole source of true wisdom.
Prayer, the Chief Help in Understanding the Text
By George Mueller0PHP 4:6George Mueller emphasizes the vital role of prayer in understanding divine truth, asserting that he has always gained insight when he dedicated himself to prayer and meditation. He acknowledges the challenges posed by human weakness, physical ailments, and numerous responsibilities that can hinder this practice. Mueller firmly believes that effective ministry in word and doctrine is contingent upon a strong commitment to prayer and meditation. He encourages believers to prioritize prayer as their chief help in seeking understanding and wisdom from God.
(How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 07 Psalm 24
By Keith Simons7521:10PSA 24:1Keith Simons explores Psalm 24, emphasizing that while some passages in the Bible may be difficult to understand, the core messages are accessible to all who seek God earnestly. He explains that the earth and everything in it belongs to God, and only those with clean hands and pure hearts can approach His holy place. Simons encourages listeners to reflect on the mysteries within the psalm and to seek a personal relationship with God, who is depicted as the glorious King entering His temple. The sermon highlights the importance of righteousness and the blessings that come from God for those who earnestly seek Him.
(How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 24 Psalm 110
By Keith Simons2822:47PSA 110:1Keith Simons explains Psalm 110, addressing the question of why the Messiah, as God's perfect king, is not ruling the world now. He emphasizes that the King James translators maintained the integrity of the Scriptures, believing in their divine preservation, and thus translated difficult passages literally. The psalm reveals that the Messiah is currently seated at God's right hand, ruling in the midst of His enemies while awaiting the time when all enemies will be defeated. Simons highlights the dual role of the Messiah as both king and priest, and the ultimate victory over evil forces that will come in the future. The sermon encourages listeners to understand the significance of the Messiah's current reign and the promise of His complete rule.
Do You Understand What You Read?
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 119:18PRO 2:3DAN 2:18JHN 16:13ACT 8:301CO 2:12EPH 1:17COL 1:9JAS 1:5REV 5:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of understanding the Scriptures through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to seek divine enlightenment in their study of God's Word. He illustrates this by referencing the earnest prayers of Daniel and John, who sought God's help to unlock deeper truths. Spurgeon asserts that prayer is essential for gaining wisdom and understanding, likening it to a hammer that breaks down the barriers of difficult doctrines. He encourages believers to diligently combine prayer with their study, assuring them that through this practice, they will uncover the treasures of Scripture. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for a prayerful approach to understanding the Bible, which leads to spiritual growth and fulfillment.
2 Peter 3:16
By John Gill0ROM 3:81CO 15:441TH 4:151TI 4:1HEB 9:282PE 3:16John Gill expounds on 2 Peter 3:16, emphasizing that the Apostle Paul wrote his epistles under divine wisdom, addressing themes such as the second coming of Christ and the challenges faced by believers in the last days. He warns against the unlearned and unstable individuals who distort Scripture, leading to their own destruction, while encouraging diligent study and prayerful meditation on the Word. Gill reassures that while some parts of Paul's writings may be difficult to understand, they are not beyond the reach of those who seek God's guidance. He highlights the importance of being rooted in Christ to avoid misinterpretation and to grasp the truth of the Scriptures.
A Brief Outline of the Books of the Bible
By John Nelson Darby0GEN 1:1EXO 20:12CO 12:9John Nelson Darby presents a comprehensive outline of the books of the Bible, emphasizing the unfolding of God's relationship with humanity from creation to redemption. He highlights key themes in each book, such as the principles of creation in Genesis, the establishment of the law in Exodus, and the prophetic insights in the writings of the prophets. Darby underscores the importance of understanding the historical and spiritual context of each book, illustrating how they collectively reveal God's plan for salvation and His covenant with His people. He encourages believers to recognize the continuity of God's message throughout Scripture, culminating in the New Testament's revelation of Christ. The sermon serves as a reminder of the divine orchestration behind the biblical narrative and its relevance to the faith journey of believers today.
False Teaching on Obscure Teaching
By A.W. Tozer01PE 3:18A.W. Tozer addresses the dangers of false teachings that arise from obscure passages in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of understanding difficult texts rather than avoiding them. He warns that heresies often exploit these challenging verses, leading believers astray, and encourages a thorough examination of all Scripture to combat such errors. Tozer explains that Christ preached to the spirits in prison, clarifying that this does not support universalism or a second chance after death, but rather affirms God's justice and the finality of judgment. He urges the congregation to be informed and vigilant against false teachings that thrive in obscurity.
The Predicament of Translators
By G.W. North0ROM 8:10G.W. North addresses the complexities faced by translators of the Bible, particularly regarding the interpretation of the word 'spirit' in various contexts. He highlights instances where the Authorized Version may have miscapitalized 'spirit', leading to confusion about whether it refers to the Spirit of God or the spirit of man. North emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between these spirits, especially in the context of the believer's union with God. He illustrates how this union transcends mere grammar, as it involves a profound spiritual connection that enables intercession. Ultimately, the sermon calls for careful consideration of the text to grasp the intended meaning of the scriptures.
Understandest Thou What Thou Readest?
By C.H. Spurgeon0DAN 2:18JAS 1:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of seeking a deeper understanding of the Scriptures through prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He illustrates that just as Daniel prayed for insight into Nebuchadnezzar's dream and John wept for the unsealing of the book, believers must earnestly seek God's help to unlock the truths of His Word. Spurgeon encourages that diligent prayer acts as a powerful tool, breaking down the barriers to understanding and revealing the treasures of divine wisdom. He asserts that with prayer as our lever, we can access the profound mysteries of faith and doctrine. Ultimately, a prayerful approach to studying the Bible equips us to teach others and remain steadfast against false teachings.
The Exhalted Christ (Booklet)
By F.B. Meyer0REV 5:4F.B. Meyer emphasizes the centrality of Christ in both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating how all scripture points to Him as the fulfillment of God's eternal purpose. He discusses the paradoxes found in scripture, such as Christ being both the Lion and the Lamb, and how understanding these paradoxes reveals deeper truths about Jesus. Meyer encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in understanding the scriptures and to reflect Christ's character in their daily lives. He concludes by affirming that God's love, which surpasses knowledge, is accessible to all who seek it through faith in Christ.