Vigilance in Faith
Vigilance in Faith30
Notes (From the June 1889 Sword and Trowel)
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 34:17MAT 18:20ROM 12:12EPH 6:18PHP 4:61TH 5:172TI 4:2HEB 10:24JAS 5:161PE 5:8C.H. Spurgeon addresses the pressing issues facing the church in June 1889, emphasizing the need for prayer amidst the growing departure from truth among preachers in England and Scotland. He encourages the faithful to remain vigilant and vocal against the evils that threaten the gospel. Spurgeon also highlights upcoming special services at the Tabernacle, including a sermon for the British and Foreign Sailors' Society, and calls for support for the Tram-car and 'Bus Scripture Text Mission. He urges the Pastors' College Evangelical Association to unite in prayer on June 24 for a significant blessing. The sermon reflects Spurgeon's commitment to truth and the importance of community in faith.
2 Peter 2:1
By John Gill0DEU 32:6MAT 7:15ACT 20:282PE 2:1JUD 1:4John Gill addresses the issue of false teachers within the Christian community, drawing parallels to the false prophets of the Old Testament. He emphasizes that these teachers introduce destructive heresies, deny the Lord, and lead many astray, resulting in their own swift destruction. Gill warns that such individuals exploit the faithful for their gain, and their actions ultimately lead to the blasphemy of the truth. He illustrates the certainty of judgment against these false teachers by referencing historical examples of divine punishment. The sermon serves as a cautionary reminder for believers to remain vigilant against deceitful doctrines.
Mark 13
By John Nelson Darby0MRK 13:1John Nelson Darby discusses the prophetic warnings given by Jesus regarding the judgment of Jerusalem and the trials that His disciples would face in the absence of His physical presence. He emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and prepared for the coming tribulations, including the rise of false prophets and the persecution of believers. Darby highlights the eventual restoration of Israel and the ultimate return of Christ, encouraging the disciples to remain steadfast in their faith despite the challenges ahead. The sermon serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the necessity of watching and praying as they await the Lord's return.
Matthew 24
By Chuck Smith0GEN 6:5GEN 6:11MAT 24:32MAT 24:37LUK 12:272TH 2:31TI 4:1Chuck Smith discusses the signs of the times as outlined in Matthew 24, drawing parallels between current global crises such as wars, famines, and pestilence with the days of Noah. He emphasizes the moral decline and increase in crime, referencing the alarming statistics of armed criminals in the U.S. and the spiritual dangers of occultism and mysticism. Smith warns of a coming dictator, the Anti-Christ, and encourages believers to remain vigilant and aware of the prophetic signs, likening them to the budding of the fig tree as a sign of the approaching end times.
"Religion" Deterioration
By A.W. Tozer0EXO 14:10A.W. Tozer addresses the inevitable deterioration of religion, comparing it to the natural aging process and the decay of fruit. He illustrates this decline through the history of Israel, noting how they began to falter shortly after their deliverance from Egypt, even before reaching the Red Sea. Despite experiencing revival, the Israelites quickly degenerated during their wilderness journey, leading to a prolonged period of wandering. Tozer emphasizes that this pattern of moral decline is evident in the succession of Israel's kings, where each generation continued in the evil ways of the previous one. The sermon serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance in faith to prevent spiritual decay.
Matthew 24
By John Nelson Darby0MAT 24:1John Nelson Darby expounds on Matthew 24, emphasizing the consequences of Israel's rejection of the Messiah and the ensuing judgment upon Jerusalem. He discusses the prophetic nature of the chapter, detailing the trials the disciples will face, the rise of false prophets, and the eventual return of Christ to gather the elect of Israel. Darby highlights the importance of the disciples' testimony during Christ's absence and the need for vigilance in awaiting His return. He warns against complacency and worldliness, illustrating the distinction between faithful servants and those who neglect their responsibilities. Ultimately, the sermon underscores God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises regarding Israel and the kingdom.
Christ's House and Servants
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0EPH 2:191PE 2:5Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes that the Church is Christ's house, built on Him as the foundation and crafted by His hands. He illustrates that every believer is a stone in this house, called to serve and work for Christ, as all Christians have specific roles assigned to them. M'Cheyne reminds us that Christ has gone to prepare a place for us in heaven and intercedes for us, urging believers to remain vigilant and active in their faith. He warns of the sudden return of Christ, encouraging all to be watchful and ready, lest they be found unprepared. The sermon calls for a commitment to live as faithful servants of Christ, fulfilling our unique roles in His house.
Responding to the Wake-Up Call
By A.W. Tozer0PRO 6:9ISA 52:1MAT 26:41LUK 21:34ROM 13:111CO 15:34EPH 5:141TH 5:62PE 3:14REV 3:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the concept of spiritual sleep in his sermon 'Responding to the Wake-Up Call,' urging believers to awaken from their slumber. He references Ephesians 5:14, highlighting that the call to 'wake up' is directed not at sinners, but at the church, indicating that even faithful members can be spiritually asleep. Tozer explains that being spiritually asleep means being morally good yet unenlightened, and he warns that this state can lead to a disconnection from one's spiritual environment. He encourages listeners to recognize their condition and to seek awakening, as many may feel frustrated upon realizing their spiritual lethargy. The sermon serves as a call to action for Christians to become fully aware and engaged in their faith.
The Time When Kings Go Out to Battle. . . . .
By F.B. Meyer0EPH 5:15F.B. Meyer emphasizes the critical importance of seizing divine opportunities, as exemplified by King David's failure to go to battle when he should have. He warns that prolonged ease can dull our spiritual senses, leading to missed chances for growth and service. Meyer encourages believers to remain active and engaged, using their time wisely for God's work, especially during moments of leisure when temptation is most potent. He highlights the necessity of intercession, worship, and comforting others as vital ministries that can fill our days meaningfully. Ultimately, he calls for vigilance and proactive faith in redeeming the time amidst the challenges of life.
Learn the Parable of the Fig Tree (Mt. 24:32-42)
By Mike Bickle2248:50MAT 24:32Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of understanding the signs of the times as outlined in the Parable of the Fig Tree. He encourages believers to actively engage with Scripture, challenging teachings and ensuring they align with biblical truths, much like the Bereans did with Paul. Bickle highlights that those living in the final generation are commanded to know the signs of Christ's return, as unprecedented events unfold in both glory and darkness. He warns against the scoffing spirit that may hinder believers from recognizing these signs and urges them to remain vigilant and connected to God. Ultimately, he calls for a generation of believers to be aware, prepared, and engaged in the unfolding divine narrative.
The New Anti-Semitism
By Art Katz0GEN 12:3DEU 28:10PSA 83:4ISA 54:17JER 30:7EZK 37:21ZEC 2:8MAT 24:9ROM 11:1REV 12:17Art Katz addresses the alarming rise of anti-Semitism, which he describes as 'the new anti-Semitism,' highlighting its resurgence in mainstream society, including universities and social movements. He notes that this form of anti-Semitism is not only more widespread but also more accepted, with individuals openly expressing hostility towards Israel and the Jewish people. Katz draws parallels to historical events, warning that societal attitudes can shift dramatically and rapidly, as seen in Nazi Germany. He emphasizes the need for vigilance and preparedness as these sentiments become more commonplace, suggesting that we are approaching a critical time for the Jewish people, referred to as the Time of Jacob's Trouble.
Ezekiel 9
By Chuck Smith0GEN 6:5GEN 19:24EXO 12:13EZK 9:4MAT 24:37LUK 21:36ROM 1:181PE 4:172PE 3:9REV 3:10Chuck Smith emphasizes the certainty and discrimination of God's judgment as depicted in Ezekiel 9. He explains that God's patience should not be mistaken for indifference, as history shows that judgment will come, citing examples like the flood and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Smith highlights that God marks those who mourn over the sins of the land for protection, contrasting them with the wicked who disregard His warnings. He warns of the coming judgment, urging believers to remain vigilant and prayerful, as the time for judgment begins at the house of God. The sermon calls for a deep concern for the iniquities of society and a commitment to seeking God's mercy.
So Wake Up
By Erlo Stegen0ROM 13:11Erlo Stegen emphasizes the urgent call to awaken from spiritual slumber, highlighting that our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. He warns against complacency and the dangers of sin that can extinguish the Holy Spirit's flame within us. Stegen illustrates the importance of living a life of love and vigilance, using biblical examples to show the consequences of spiritual sleepiness. He encourages believers to remain in Christ daily, actively resisting temptation and focusing on the Lord to avoid falling into sin. The sermon serves as a reminder that we must be proactive in our faith and not take our salvation for granted.
"How to Grow in Grace"
By A.W. Tozer02PE 3:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of growing in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, drawing from Peter's exhortation to remain steadfast and vigilant against the temptations of the world. He warns against complacency and the dangers of being led astray by false teachings and societal pressures, urging believers to actively cultivate their faith through prayer, scripture reading, and fellowship. Tozer highlights the importance of intentionality in spiritual growth, comparing it to the care required for a garden, and encourages Christians to be witnesses for Christ in a world that often promotes tolerance over truth. He concludes with a call to prayer and a desire for a deeper revival in the church, urging believers to seek holiness and a closer relationship with God.
Salvation Always Conditional
By Charles Finney0EZK 18:211CO 10:12Charles Finney emphasizes that salvation is conditional and warns against overconfidence in one's spiritual state. He explains that believing one is secure in their salvation can lead to complacency and eventual fall into sin. Finney stresses the necessity of continuous vigilance, reliance on God's grace, and the importance of moral agency in maintaining holiness. He argues that no single act of faith guarantees unconditional salvation, and that believers must remain active in their faith to ensure their perseverance. Ultimately, he calls for a humble acknowledgment of our dependence on God to avoid spiritual downfall.
The Lord My Keeper
By Octavius Winslow0Octavius Winslow emphasizes that the Lord is our ultimate keeper, capable of preserving believers from falling into destruction. He explains that no one but God can uphold us, as human efforts are insufficient for salvation. Winslow highlights the importance of Jesus' intercessory role, affirming that while Judas was lost, true believers are kept by divine power. He encourages believers to remain vigilant in prayer and watchfulness, recognizing that while God keeps us, we also have a responsibility to guard our faith. Ultimately, the assurance lies in the fact that Jesus, our divine keeper, will sustain us until we reach glory.
The Promise of Jesus' Return
By David Wilkerson02PE 3:3David Wilkerson emphasizes the promise of Jesus' return, lamenting the current apathy and mockery surrounding this vital message. He recalls a time when the anticipation of Christ's return filled believers with hope and urgency, contrasting it with today's indifference and skepticism. Wilkerson warns against the scoffers who dismiss the promise of His coming, urging believers to remain vigilant and ready for His return. He encourages the faithful to find joy in the anticipation of meeting Jesus, reminding them that His coming should be a source of excitement rather than fear. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of longing for Christ's return, affirming it as the blessed hope of the Church.
Dangers in the Way #1 "Sources of Danger"
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 18:2PSA 34:17ISA 41:10JHN 10:10ROM 12:22CO 10:3EPH 6:11JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 2:15A.W. Tozer addresses the sources of danger in the Christian life, emphasizing that dangers arise from the world, the devil, and our own unmodified flesh. He explains that the world represents society organized outside of God's will, which poses a threat to the soul. Tozer warns against the subtlety of the devil, who operates as a tempter and accuser, and stresses the importance of being vigilant against the dangers that come from within ourselves. He encourages believers to seek refuge in God, who is our Rock and Fortress, and to remain alert to the spiritual dangers that can lead us astray. Ultimately, Tozer reassures that deliverance is possible through faith in God.
Ending Well
By Erlo Stegen02CH 29:22CH 32:7PRO 1:7PRO 16:18ISA 37:14ISA 38:1MAT 26:41PHP 3:14JAS 4:101PE 5:8Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of finishing well in his sermon 'Ending Well', using the life of King Hezekiah as a cautionary tale. Hezekiah started his reign with great zeal for God, cleaning the temple and trusting in God's deliverance against Sennacherib. However, pride crept in towards the end of his life, leading to poor decisions and ultimately a prophecy of destruction for Judah. Stegen warns that it is not enough to start well; one must also remain vigilant and faithful to the end, urging the congregation to 'watch and pray' to ensure a good ending. The sermon serves as a reminder that our spiritual journey requires continuous commitment and humility before God.
Awake Thou That Sleepest - the Snare of Sleepiness
By Phil Beach Jr.2951:24MAT 24:12LUK 21:34Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the urgent need for spiritual awakening in his sermon 'Awake Thou That Sleepest - the Snare of Sleepiness.' He warns that the love of many can grow cold due to the abounding iniquity in the world, leading to spiritual sleepiness that can ensnare believers. Beach encourages the congregation to remain vigilant and prayerful, highlighting the importance of self-examination and the need for the Holy Spirit to awaken their hearts. He draws parallels from scripture, illustrating how even the wise can fall asleep spiritually and miss the call of God. Ultimately, he calls for a collective awakening to avoid the snares that lead to spiritual death.
Spiritual Readiness
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 25:11PE 1:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of spiritual readiness for believers, asserting that being born again is not the sole requirement for meeting Jesus. He reflects on the historical perspective of the church, where spiritual preparation was seen as essential, likening it to a bride preparing for her Bridegroom. Tozer warns against complacency, suggesting that many who profess faith may not be truly ready for Christ's return. He calls for vigilance, urging believers to live, watch, and pray in anticipation of the Lord's coming.
Gods Process for Building Sons
By Phil Beach Jr.3754:08GEN 26:17JER 48:11LUK 21:34HEB 12:1HEB 12:25Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes God's process for building sons, highlighting the importance of remaining vigilant and not becoming complacent amidst life's challenges. He draws parallels between Isaac's journey and our own spiritual growth, stressing that God desires a personal relationship with each of us rather than allowing us to settle on the faith of others. Beach warns against the distractions and anxieties of life that can weigh us down, urging believers to keep their focus on Jesus and to actively participate in their spiritual development. He encourages the congregation to embrace the trials and discipline as part of God's refining process, ultimately leading to the fullness of Christ in our lives.
John Wesley's Explanatory Notes - Matthew 24
By John Wesley0MAT 24:2John Wesley explains Matthew 24, emphasizing the prophetic warnings Jesus gave about the destruction of the temple and the signs of His second coming. He highlights the importance of vigilance against deception from false prophets and the need for believers to endure through tribulations. Wesley notes that the destruction of Jerusalem was a significant event that foreshadowed greater spiritual truths and the eventual return of Christ. He encourages Christians to remain faithful and wise stewards of their faith, as the exact timing of the end is known only to God. The sermon serves as a reminder to be prepared and alert for the Lord's return.
A Spirit of Slumber!
By David Wilkerson0ISA 29:10EZK 37:1MAT 25:5ROM 11:5HEB 3:19REV 3:16David Wilkerson's sermon 'A Spirit of Slumber!' warns of the spiritual blindness affecting both Jews and Christians, emphasizing that many are trapped in a deep sleep, unable to perceive the truth of the Gospel. He highlights the tragedy of those who, despite their search for fulfillment, remain unawakened to the grace of Jesus Christ, and he urges believers to recognize their own potential for spiritual slumber. Wilkerson calls for a revival, reminding the faithful that God can breathe new life into the spiritually dead, awakening them from their slumber. He stresses the importance of vigilance and faithfulness, warning that complacency can lead to being cut off from God's grace. Ultimately, he encourages a cry for the Holy Spirit to awaken the church and bring forth a great resurrection of faith.
The Fearful Results of a Spiritual Relapse
By Charles Finney0MAT 12:43Charles Finney warns about the dire consequences of spiritual relapse, using the metaphor of an unclean spirit returning to a man who has not filled his heart with righteousness. He illustrates how the Jewish nation, after a brief awakening under John the Baptist, fell back into deeper sin upon rejecting Christ, leading to a state worse than before. Finney emphasizes that a temporary absence of evil does not guarantee lasting change unless one actively seeks to fill their life with God's presence. He cautions that neglecting spiritual vigilance can invite even greater evils into one's life, resulting in a dangerous cycle of sin and despair. The sermon serves as a call to action for believers to remain steadfast and proactive in their faith.
Therefore, Be Serious
By David Wilkerson0MAT 4:1LUK 22:31JHN 10:102CO 2:11EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 12:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the urgency of being serious in our spiritual lives, warning that those who follow Jesus are marked by Satan for destruction. He cites 1 Peter 4:7, urging believers to be sober-minded and vigilant in prayer as the end times approach and the enemy intensifies his attacks. Wilkerson highlights the reality of the devil, countering the notion that he can be ignored or reasoned away, and stresses the importance of recognizing his presence and tactics. The sermon calls for Christians to resist the devil with steadfast faith, as outlined in 1 Peter 5:8-9, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Ultimately, it is a call to take our spiritual battles seriously and to remain alert in our faith.
The Watchman's Answer to the Question, What of the Night?
By John Gill0ISA 21:11John Gill preaches on the prophetic significance of the watchman's response to the question, 'What of the night?' emphasizing the duality of morning and night as symbols of hope and despair. He explains that the watchman, representing either God, Christ, or the prophets, provides assurance that while darkness may prevail, a new dawn of redemption is coming. Gill warns of the cyclical nature of spiritual states, where periods of light are often followed by darkness, urging believers to remain vigilant and faithful. He encourages the congregation to seek understanding through scripture and to return to God with humility and repentance, as the ultimate morning of Christ's return will bring eternal light to the faithful.
Sin . . . Exceeding Sinful
By C.H. Spurgeon0ROM 6:23JAS 1:14C.H. Spurgeon warns against taking sin lightly, emphasizing that while new converts may initially have a tender conscience, the world can desensitize them over time. He illustrates how familiarity with sin can lead to a dangerous complacency, where even small sins are rationalized and dismissed. Spurgeon urges Christians to recognize the true nature of sin, which is deadly and destructive, reminding them that even the smallest sin contributed to the suffering of Christ. He calls for a vigilant attitude towards sin, encouraging believers to view it as exceedingly sinful and to flee from it as they would from a serpent.
And It Came to Pass in an Evening-Tide
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 121:7PRO 4:23MAT 26:41ROM 13:141CO 10:12GAL 5:16EPH 6:112TI 2:22JAS 4:71PE 5:8C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the ever-present danger of temptation, illustrating how even the most secure can fall prey to sin, as exemplified by David's encounter with Bathsheba. He warns that idleness and luxury can lead to spiritual complacency, making one more vulnerable to temptation. Spurgeon urges believers to remain vigilant and active in their faith, recognizing that no place is immune to sin's allure. He highlights the necessity of divine grace to guard against the corruptions of the heart and the schemes of Satan, especially during the evening when temptations may arise. The sermon serves as a reminder to seek the Holy Spirit's protection and to maintain a watchful spirit at all times.
Overcoming Temptation - `Watch and Pray'
By Erlo Stegen0JOB 1:8MAT 26:41LUK 22:322CO 13:5EPH 6:11HEB 12:1JAS 4:71PE 5:8REV 2:7REV 3:20Erlo Stegen emphasizes the critical importance of both watching and praying to overcome temptation, as highlighted in Matthew 26:41. He warns that neglecting to watch can lead to spiritual downfall, using the example of Peter and the relentless nature of Satan, who seeks to devour believers. Stegen illustrates that temptation can come in various forms and that even the most righteous, like Job, are not exempt from trials. He encourages believers to remain vigilant and discerning, as true faith requires active engagement with God's Word and prayer. Ultimately, he calls for repentance and faithfulness, assuring that God can use those who heed His warnings to bless others.