Worldliness
Worldliness in the Bible refers to a mindset or behavior that prioritizes earthly values, desires, and pursuits over spiritual or divine principles. It is often associated with a love for the material world, leading individuals to seek fulfillment in wealth, pleasure, and temporal success rather than in a relationship with God. The term is frequently used in the context of warnings against conforming to the patterns of this world. For instance, Romans 12:2 admonishes believers not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, indicating that worldliness can hinder spiritual growth and understanding.Additionally, 1 John 2:15-17 explicitly cautions against loving the world or the things in it, asserting that such love is incompatible with the love of the Father. The passage delineates between the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life as elements of worldliness that ultimately lead to spiritual decay, contrasting these with the eternal nature of God's kingdom. Thus, biblical worldliness involves a diversion from divine purpose and an entanglement in secular concerns, urging believers to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33) and foster a lifestyle reflective of their faith.
Worldliness36
Don't Stay in the Plain
By Arlen L. Chitwood1.7K1:01:25GEN 19:17ISA 2:2MAT 6:33ACT 2:38ROM 12:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Genesis 19:17 and its relevance to the destruction of the nations. The speaker mentions that there have been five messages on this verse, with two already covered at the Lazy Dog Ranch. The sermon includes a digression about the speaker's sleepless night and his thoughts on the book of Daniel. The speaker emphasizes the importance of not conforming to the world and highlights a practice of putting fake smiles on corpses at funerals. The sermon concludes with a discussion of Daniel 4:23 and its connection to the destruction of the Gentiles.
Whatever Is Not of the Love of God… Is of the World and Its Spirit.
By Andrew Murray01JN 2:15Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of examining our hearts and the church in the light of God, recognizing that the spirit of the world can infiltrate our faith. He warns against self-confidence and urges believers to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to discern what in us may still reflect worldly values. Murray identifies three ways this worldliness can manifest: through selfish religion, a desire for worldly enjoyments, and the adoption of worldly wisdom in our practices. Ultimately, he asserts that anything not rooted in the love of God and the Spirit of Christ is influenced by the world and its spirit.
The Trend Away From God
By Watchman Nee0GEN 1:11ISA 53:6MAT 16:26JHN 12:31ROM 12:21CO 1:212CO 6:17PHP 3:8JAS 4:41JN 5:19Watchman Nee addresses the alarming trend away from God, emphasizing that while Christians recognize sinful things as Satanic, they often overlook the worldly pursuits like education, science, and culture that are equally under Satan's influence. He warns that the entire world lies in the evil one, and even seemingly innocent endeavors can lead believers astray if not kept under God's authority. Nee illustrates this with examples from history and personal experience, showing how institutions founded on Christian principles can drift into worldly standards once divine influence wanes. He concludes that true deliverance from these entanglements is not merely through personal dedication but through the mercy and redemptive work of God, urging believers to tread carefully in all worldly matters.
Coming Out of the World
By Jason Robinson1.3K1:19:152CO 6:14Jason Robinson emphasizes the necessity for the church to come out of worldly influences and to embody a distinct lifestyle that reflects Christ. He discusses the importance of meaningful relationships within the church, urging believers to separate themselves from cultural norms that conflict with their faith. Robinson warns against merely reforming existing church structures without seeking God's guidance, highlighting the need for a genuine transformation in values and priorities. He stresses that true discipleship requires forsaking all for Christ and that the church should be a community of believers who support one another in living out their faith authentically. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the essence of the church as a body of believers who are set apart from the world.
Communion With Christ; Broken and Restored
By Hudson Taylor0PSA 45:10HEB 2:1Hudson Taylor emphasizes the fragility of communion with Christ, warning that believers can easily drift into worldliness despite their love for Him. He illustrates how the bride, representing the believer, often forgets the call to remain separate from worldly influences, leading to a gradual separation from the Lord. Taylor highlights the importance of heeding God's exhortations and the dangers of small compromises that can spoil one's spiritual fruitfulness. Ultimately, he encourages believers to seek restoration and full communion with Christ, reminding them of His unwavering love and desire for fellowship. The sermon concludes with a call to remain devoted to Christ while living in the world, emphasizing the joy found in His presence.
Don't Look Back
By Arlen L. Chitwood2.4K44:54GEN 19:17MAT 6:33MAT 12:30LUK 17:32LUK 21:34HEB 11:102PE 3:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not dwelling in the plain, using the story of Lot's wife as an example. He contrasts Lot, who didn't make it far in his journey, with Abraham, who dwelled in the high country. The preacher warns against tying our hopes and visions to the present world system, as it will ultimately be destroyed. He urges listeners to keep their focus on that which will endure and gain an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ.
I Speak About That Subjection to the Spirit of the World…
By Andrew Murray01JN 2:15Andrew Murray addresses the pervasive influence of the spirit of the world within the church, emphasizing how the desire for comfort, luxury, and material wealth distracts Christians from true self-denial and spirituality. He critiques the selfish pursuit of riches and the materialistic mindset that equates happiness with possessions, which ultimately hinders self-sacrifice for others and the advancement of God's kingdom. Murray calls for a recognition of this subjection to worldly values that leads believers to prioritize earthly enjoyment over spiritual commitment.
The Christian and Worldliness
By Vance Havner1.8K28:52JHN 17:14Vance Havner addresses the tension between Christians and worldliness, emphasizing that believers are not of this world but are called to live in it with purpose. He highlights the importance of spiritual separation from worldly influences while also recognizing the need for engagement with the world. Havner warns against conforming to worldly standards and encourages Christians to seek joy and truth in their relationship with God. He reflects on the challenges faced by believers in maintaining their distinctiveness in a culture that often prioritizes worldly success and acceptance.
Abraham and Lot
By Leonard Ravenhill22K1:11:23GEN 19:16LUK 17:28In this sermon, the preacher starts off with a lighthearted and humorous tone, wearing a unique outfit and dancing on the platform. However, he quickly transitions to a serious topic, discussing the state of America and the need to give it to God. He highlights the issues of venereal disease, AIDS, illegitimate babies, drunkards, and drug addiction in the country. The preacher questions whether God waits for a nation to become completely corrupt before bringing judgment, and references the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. He emphasizes the importance of prayer and faithfulness to God, and expresses a desire for revival and a transformation of the community.
You Cannot Love God and the World
By James La Belle1.5K37:02HOS 10:1MAT 6:33MRK 8:36MRK 12:30In this sermon, the focus is on Mark 12:30, where Jesus commands us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. The preacher acknowledges the difficulty of this command and prays for God's grace to enable us to fulfill it. The sermon emphasizes the importance of separating ourselves from the world and looking to God, rather than being enticed by worldly desires. The preacher concludes by challenging the listeners to examine their hearts and determine whether they truly love God or if they are more attached to the world.
Genesis 19:22
By Chuck Smith0GEN 19:26MAT 16:25LUK 17:32ROM 12:21CO 10:12GAL 5:17PHP 3:18JAS 4:42PE 2:201JN 2:15Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of remembering Lot's wife as a warning against worldliness and the dangers of clinging to a sinful past. He describes the conditions of Sodom, both physically and spiritually, highlighting the moral decay that led to its destruction. Lot's family, particularly his wife, illustrates the struggle between the comforts of a sinful life and the call to follow God. Smith draws parallels between Sodom and modern society, urging believers to heed the warning of Jesus about the consequences of looking back. Ultimately, he stresses that true salvation involves a complete break from worldly desires.
Remember Lot's Wife
By Walid Bitar1.6K43:15GEN 19:26MAT 6:21MAT 24:44LUK 17:32ROM 12:2HEB 10:26JAS 4:42PE 3:111JN 2:15REV 3:15Walid Bitar emphasizes the critical warning from Jesus to 'Remember Lot's wife,' illustrating the dangers of worldliness and the futility of relying on religious privileges for salvation. He recounts the story of Lot's wife, who, despite her privileged position, disobeyed God's command and looked back at Sodom, resulting in her destruction. Bitar urges the congregation to reflect on their own spiritual readiness and the importance of genuine faith over mere religious affiliation. He challenges young people to consider what they are doing for eternity, rather than just for their temporal lives. The sermon serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the urgency of being prepared for Christ's return.
Worshipers of the Golden Calf!
By Thomas Brooks0ECC 1:2MAT 6:24LUK 16:19ROM 12:2PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:9HEB 11:24JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of worldliness and earthly-mindedness among professing Christians, likening them to worshipers of the golden calf. He emphasizes that the allure of the world is deceptive and ultimately leads to spiritual decay, as true fulfillment can only be found in God. Brooks illustrates that an inordinate love for worldly things can sever one's communion with God, urging believers to seek a greater glory rather than being captivated by vanity. He reminds us that the things of this world are ultimately worthless in the eyes of eternity, and that true richness comes from a relationship with God.
Take Heed of the Witch
By Thomas Brooks0PHP 3:18Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of being consumed by worldly desires, emphasizing that those who prioritize earthly things become enemies of the cross of Christ, leading to destruction. He laments the tears shed for those who neglect holiness in favor of worldly pleasures, which ultimately lead to spiritual barrenness. Brooks illustrates that the allure of the world can distract believers from their spiritual responsibilities and the pursuit of holiness. He urges listeners to recognize the vanity of worldly pursuits and to fill their hearts with holiness instead of allowing them to be filled with the flesh and the devil. The sermon concludes with a stark choice between the fleeting pleasures of the world and the eternal joy found in holiness.
Man's Dislike of a Present God.
By Horatius Bonar0JOB 21:14PSA 10:4ISA 29:13MAT 15:8JHN 14:6ROM 1:212TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 4:41JN 2:15Horatius Bonar addresses the tendency of worldly men to reject the presence of God, as illustrated in Job 21:14, where they express a desire for God to depart from them. He explains that this rejection is not born from atheism or a sense of injustice, but rather from a love for worldly pleasures that God threatens to disrupt. Bonar emphasizes that this attitude is prevalent not only in the world but also within the church, where individuals seek to distance themselves from God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, and God's law. Ultimately, he highlights God's persistent love and desire to remain close to humanity, despite their rejection. Bonar calls for a recognition of the emptiness that follows God's departure and the importance of embracing His presence.
Love Not the World
By Horatius Bonar0MAT 16:25JHN 1:10JHN 7:7JHN 14:27JHN 17:9JHN 17:161CO 1:20GAL 6:14JAS 4:41JN 2:15Horatius Bonar emphasizes the dangers of loving the world, warning that its gain leads to the loss of the soul and that friendship with the world is enmity against God. He highlights that the world does not recognize or love Christ, and that believers are called to be separate from it, as it is ruled by Satan and filled with wickedness. Bonar urges Christians to focus on eternal treasures rather than the fleeting pleasures of this world, reminding them that their true home lies in the kingdom to come.
A Worldy Spirit, the Worst Heresy
By Andrew Murray0JHN 15:19JHN 17:14Andrew Murray emphasizes the conflict between the spirit of the world and the Spirit of God, illustrating how each kingdom influences the hearts and actions of humanity. He warns that the greatest danger for believers lies in the subtle and unconscious influence of worldly spirit, which can lead them away from God's will. Murray highlights that the fall of man resulted in a preference for the visible and temporal over the spiritual and eternal, causing a deep-rooted worldliness. He calls for believers to have their eyes opened to the true nature of the world and to seek complete possession by the Spirit of God to overcome this influence.
The Thorns and Thistles of Life
By Vance Havner1.8K29:49GEN 1:1JER 4:3MAT 13:7ROM 12:21CO 5:102CO 12:9EPH 3:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of divine providence and how it relates to the troubles and challenges that people face in life. He emphasizes that God's love and grace are limitless, and that even in the midst of difficulties, His love is always present. The preacher also acknowledges that the world is not perfect and that there are things like floods, storms, and droughts that cause devastation and suffering. However, he encourages listeners to trust in God's plan and reminds them that there is a future chapter where everything will be made right.
God or Mammon
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones0MAT 6:19Martyn-Lloyd Jones emphasizes the critical choice between serving God and worldly possessions, urging Christians to lay up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. He explains that earthly treasures are temporary and subject to decay, while heavenly treasures are eternal and secure. The preacher warns that worldliness can subtly infiltrate the lives of believers, affecting their hearts, minds, and wills, ultimately leading to a divided loyalty. He stresses the importance of self-examination to determine where one's true allegiance lies, as one cannot serve both God and mammon. The sermon serves as a call to prioritize spiritual wealth over material gain.
Escape to the Mountain
By Arlen L. Chitwood1.8K1:01:14GEN 19:171CO 10:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that believers have been saved for a purpose and that purpose extends to all of mankind. He speaks about the present kingdom of God and the future rule of man. The preacher mentions that he will tie together the chapters of Genesis in a future message, using types, metaphors, and numbers to reveal God's plan. He concludes by inviting the congregation to stay for a meal and briefly mentions the depth of the flood in Genesis.
The Danger in Worldliness
By David Wilkerson0JHN 12:35JHN 13:34David Wilkerson warns against the dangers of worldliness infiltrating the church, emphasizing that a distorted gospel promotes acceptance without the need for repentance or personal change. He highlights Jesus' admonition to walk in the light, cautioning that seeking worldly acceptance can lead to a darkening of one's spiritual light. Wilkerson stresses that true love, as commanded by Christ, is demonstrated through actions and is essential for the church to effectively reach a lost generation. He encourages believers to seek a baptism of love to strengthen their relationships within the church and to draw others to Christ.
What the World Is; and How a Christian Can Live in It.
By John Nelson Darby0LUK 16:15JHN 15:19ROM 8:142CO 6:14GAL 2:20PHP 3:202TI 3:12JAS 4:41PE 2:111JN 2:15John Nelson Darby emphasizes the distinction between the world and the Christian life, urging believers to avoid the entrapments of the world-system, which is governed by Satan. He explains that while Christians must navigate the world, they should not conform to its values or systems, as true citizenship lies in heaven. Darby warns against the dangers of being absorbed into societal norms and stresses the importance of living by faith, guided by the Spirit of God. He encourages Christians to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of persecution, and to maintain a clear separation from worldly influences. Ultimately, he calls for a life that reflects Christ, as believers await their eternal hope in Him.
(Proverbs) ch.24:1 - 34
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:00:47PRO 24:1PRO 24:10PRO 24:15PRO 24:19PRO 24:30LUK 21:34Zac Poonen emphasizes the dangers of worldliness and the importance of wisdom in building our lives and communities. He warns against the gradual intoxication of our hearts by worldly desires, which can lead to spiritual downfall, and stresses that true wisdom, understanding, and knowledge are essential for establishing a strong foundation in our lives. Poonen highlights the need for self-examination, especially during adversity, to reveal our true spiritual condition and encourages believers to seek wise counsel and avoid the pitfalls of envy and partiality. He concludes by urging the congregation to learn from the mistakes of others and to remain vigilant against the spirit of rebellion and vengeance.
The Believer and Worlds
By A.W. Tozer02CO 6:14A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity for believers to turn away from the world and its influences, highlighting the clear distinction Jesus made between the kingdom of God and worldly pursuits. He points out that true discipleship requires a critical examination of one's relationship with the world, as there is often confusion among Christians about what constitutes 'the world.' Tozer stresses that understanding this distinction is vital for living a life that honors God, as two contrasting worlds exist: one created by God and the other shaped by human hands into a flawed imitation.
Worldliness a Mark of the Unconverted
By Horatius Bonar0MAT 6:24JHN 3:3ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 6:14EPH 2:1COL 3:2JAS 1:82PE 2:171JN 2:15Horatius Bonar addresses the issue of worldliness among those who claim to be religious but are, in reality, only superficially connected to their faith. He emphasizes that such individuals are torn between their worldly desires and their religious obligations, leading to a hollow and ineffective spiritual life. Bonar warns that this half-hearted approach to religion is a delusion that cannot withstand the tests of time or eternity. He calls for a true conversion that involves a complete surrender to Christ, urging the worldly formalist to abandon false hopes and embrace the transformative love of Jesus. Ultimately, Bonar encourages a radical re-evaluation of one's faith to ensure it is genuine and rooted in Christ.
Don't Court the World
By Theodore Epp0AMO 3:3MAT 6:24JHN 15:19ROM 12:22CO 6:14GAL 1:10JAS 4:41PE 2:111JN 2:15Theodore Epp emphasizes the danger of being friends with the world, equating it to spiritual infidelity against God. He references James 4:4 to illustrate that aligning with worldly values positions one as an enemy of God, and highlights the importance of true fellowship with God over worldly desires. Epp warns that a lifestyle consistent with worldly values indicates a lack of genuine faith in Christ, while also acknowledging that some believers may temporarily stray due to wanting Christ as Savior without fully submitting to Him as Lord. He concludes with a call to reject worldly love, citing 1 John 2:15.
(So Great a Salvation) Not Loving the World
By Paris Reidhead8.8K43:411JN 2:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of examining one's attitude towards the world. He encourages individuals to reflect on whom they seek to please and where their happiness comes from. The commandment to "love not the world" is supported by verses 16 and 17, which highlight the desires of the eye as part of what is in the world. The speaker also discusses the grace of God that brings salvation, emphasizing that it teaches everyone the same thing regardless of their background or culture.
(Genesis) 50 - Jacob at Shechem; or Worldliness, Its Character and Cure
By S. Lewis Johnson1.4K54:22GEN 34:1S. Lewis Johnson discusses Jacob's journey to Shechem, emphasizing the dangers of worldliness and its consequences. Jacob's decision to settle near the pagan city led to the tragic defilement of his daughter Dinah, illustrating the perils of compromising one's faith and values. The sermon highlights how Jacob's fear and deceit towards Esau resulted in a departure from his calling as a pilgrim of faith, ultimately leading to violence and moral failure within his family. Johnson warns against the allure of worldly values and the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as God's people. He calls for believers to seek a deeper relationship with God rather than succumbing to worldly ambitions and desires.
Be Not Conformed to the World
By Paul Washer5.3K49:58ROM 12:1Paul Washer emphasizes the call to not conform to the world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, urging believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices to God. He highlights the importance of worship as a holistic act of obedience and service, rather than merely singing songs. Washer warns against the powerful influences of the world that can lead believers astray and stresses the necessity of knowing God's Word to discern His will. He encourages a deepening relationship with God through understanding His attributes, which in turn fosters a greater love for Him. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a radical commitment to holiness and a rejection of worldly values.
No Turning Back
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 6:24ROM 12:2GAL 5:71TI 4:12TI 3:5HEB 10:23JAS 4:42PE 2:201JN 2:15REV 3:15A.W. Tozer warns against the alarming trend of evangelicals who pray and preach as Christians while living and speaking like the world, suggesting that this duality leads to apostasy. He emphasizes that such a wrong orientation towards the world can result in a gradual surrender of truth and a slide into unbelief, affecting both individuals and denominations. Tozer expresses concern over the 'facing-both-ways' attitude prevalent in contemporary Christianity, which, if unchecked, could lead to a broader decline in faith. He distinguishes between unintentional backsliding and a deliberate acceptance of unchristian behavior, the latter being far more dangerous. The sermon calls for a return to genuine faith and a rejection of worldly influences in the Christian life.
Thorns and Thistles
By Vance Havner70329:41GEN 1:1MAT 13:7ROM 12:21CO 5:102CO 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the brokenness in the world and how it relates to God's plan of redemption. He mentions that the Bible does not explain how God began or how evil began, but it does talk about the serpent in the garden and the consequences of Adam and Eve's disobedience. The speaker emphasizes the need for sanctification and the importance of relying on God's grace. He also mentions the thorns in creation and how God can bring glory out of difficult situations. Overall, the sermon highlights the need for humanity to turn to God and trust in His plan of redemption.
Worldly Pollution
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 6:24JHN 15:19ROM 12:22CO 6:14GAL 5:17EPH 5:11JAS 4:41PE 2:111JN 1:61JN 2:15A.W. Tozer warns against the dangers of worldly pollution, emphasizing that the world represents a sinful human society that opposes the love of God. He identifies key characteristics of this world, including unbelief, where individuals reject the authority of Scripture, and impenitence, where people acknowledge their sins but lack genuine sorrow for them. Tozer stresses that true Christians should maintain fellowship with fellow believers rather than with those who live in unbelief. The sermon serves as a call to recognize and resist the influences of the world that lead to spiritual adultery.
A Woman to Be Remembered
By J.C. Ryle0GEN 19:17PSA 9:17MAT 5:28MRK 16:16LUK 17:32HEB 11:6JAS 4:42PE 2:81JN 2:15REV 3:17J.C. Ryle emphasizes the dire warning of Jesus to 'Remember Lot’s wife,' illustrating the peril of worldliness and the futility of relying solely on religious privileges without true faith. Lot's wife, despite her religious background and the privileges she enjoyed, looked back at Sodom and faced immediate judgment, serving as a cautionary tale for believers today. Ryle urges Christians to examine their hearts and ensure they are not merely going through the motions of faith while being attached to worldly desires. He warns that many who seem to be on the path to salvation may ultimately be lost if they do not genuinely embrace the grace of the Holy Spirit. The sermon serves as a call to vigilance and sincerity in one's faith, reminding listeners of the reality of judgment and the importance of true conversion.
Worldliness
By Vance Havner2.1K28:57JHN 17:14Vance Havner addresses the concept of worldliness in his sermon, emphasizing the teachings of John 17, where Jesus speaks about the relationship between believers and the world. He highlights the need for Christians to be sanctified and to find joy in their separation from worldly influences, while also cautioning against the extremes of isolation and conformity. Havner points out that true believers are not of the world, and he encourages the church to maintain its distinctiveness in a society that often values worldly success over spiritual integrity. He warns against the dangers of loving the world and urges Christians to reflect on their associations and priorities.
Rebuking Worldliness
By Billy Strachan80842:28ROM 14:23JAS 5:1In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of worldliness and the need to resist becoming friends with the world. He emphasizes the resources available to believers to overcome this attitude, such as the Holy Spirit and the grace of God. The speaker also highlights the importance of prioritizing relationships and family over material possessions. Additionally, he warns against the dangers of being spiritually adulterous by desiring both the favor of God and the things of the world. The sermon concludes with a rebuke towards rich Christians who have a wrong attitude towards wealth and money.
Not Loving the World
By Paris Reidhead1.2K46:20MAT 24:38LUK 21:34JAS 4:41JN 1:61JN 2:31JN 2:91JN 2:151JN 3:141JN 4:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the grace of God that brings salvation teaches everyone the same things, regardless of their cultural background or language. The speaker shares a personal experience of arriving in Sudan and being shown around by a senior missionary. The sermon then delves into the importance of the word of God in discerning between the soul and spirit. The speaker highlights the commandment to not love the world and explains that doing the will of God is evidence of love. The sermon concludes by suggesting that one's attitude towards the world can be revealed through their actions, and encourages listeners to let others discover their own attitudes rather than judging them.