The reasons why God is beyond human sight, and why His powerful interventions in history have been ignored by the human race. But here we unfold God’s answer to the question, and His call to mankind to seek and know Him.
Why does the Lord sometimes cause us to pray for some things repeatedly, often over a long period of time? Every praying Christian sometimes experiences long waits in prayer, sometimes extending over several years.
‘When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.’
‘Remember Lot’s wife. Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.’
When the Saviour spoke, he spoke volumes. We take a little of his gold and hammer it out into acres of gold leaf, for we cannot talk ingots of gold as he did. His words had infinite meanings which only he could fulfil.
Here are answers to questions from Christ’s parable of the lost sheep. Why did God have to become man in order to save us? Why do people think they do not need to repent? What happens in repentance and what are the common mistakes?
‘For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.’
As salvation is a free gift of God, in what way must we strive for it? What makes it a narrow gate? Why do many seek to enter, and fail? Here are the hindrances, the way to enter, and the experience that awaits us.
‘To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.’
‘There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: and there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores.’
Don’t be misled by the so-called sinner’s prayer so often quoted today. It generates mainly deluded and nominal ‘Christians’. The real thing is the prayer provided by Christ. If this is sincerely prayed, the seeker will surely find the Lord.
Here are astonishing and unexpected words. A dying Saviour in extreme agony looks upon a vast crowd, screaming out insults, hatred and abuse, and prays, ‘Father, forgive them!’ Here is Christ’s mighty love, the definition of forgiveness, and how the prayer is answered.
‘And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him.’
‘And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.’
‘And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.’
‘And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?’
In the Lord’s first resurrection appearance to the gathered disciples we see the significance of His standing in the centre of that small group. Here are the seven hugely significant lessons and the encouragements; why, for example, did the Lord ask them to give Him food?
The shepherds of Bethlehem suddenly found themselves immersed in an extraordinary light of such intensity and power that they felt under judgement and utterly weak within. Yet this was the beginning of a life-changing spiritual experience- a personal encounter with the living God.
‘Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many: And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.’
‘Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.’
When Christ healed a paralysed man, He first pronounced that his sins were forgiven. To prove that He had power to forgive, He then healed the body, giving life where all had been limp and motionless; illustrating the changes in conversion to Christ.
Surely nothing is more tragic than to believe life is peaceful and secure without God, only to discover one day that one faces eternal disaster. Here is the false peace that imprisons us in this material world and keeps us from seeking and finding the Lord.
‘And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.’
‘And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.’
The New Testament reasons with people to be saved from condemnation and receive eternal life, and here are several famous passages where heavenly glory, and how to be sure of it, is proclaimed. Here also is the urging of God’s heart of love for lost souls.
‘Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.’
‘Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.’
To switch political parties or to change opinions are significant acts, but nothing is as profound and permanent as conversion. Here Christ illustrates the magnitude and wonder of conversion, and how it changes many aspects of a person to make ‘a new creation’.
‘And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.’
‘And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.’
‘And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.’
Christ’s parable of the ‘evil’ eye portrays our inability to grasp spiritual matters. It shows that blurred spiritual vision is a wilful condition, for we do not want to know about the Lord. Here is how we may ‘see’, and find God’s forgiving love.
If an encounter with God, or reconciliation, comes by faith (trust) what does this exactly involve? Here are the few things we need to understand and believe in order to approach Him, all seen in the experience of a Roman centurion who trusted in Christ.
Christ’s parable of the vineyard tenants, preached in the temple, speaks to hostile Jewish leaders, but it contains a life-saving message for us, showing the elements of our rebellion against God that must be recognised and regretted in order to approach and find Him.
The narrative of Zacchaeus, a loathed tax-chief at Jericho, and how a germ of curiosity and inner need led him to an encounter with the Saviour that changed his entire nature and disposition. Here are the features and the effects of conversion to Christ.
The parable of the good Samaritan exposes the self-righteousness of a hostile questioner. But it also has a fuse attached. Once Christ had died and risen again it would be obvious that the Lord depicted Himself, and how to obtain eternal life.
Most people cannot live without having opinions and views about life, and how matters should work out for them. From where do we get these views? How do we know if they are true? Will they really help? Can they connect us with God?
‘..the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.’
The cross of Christ is without parallel in world history. Comprehensively prophesied, nothing has accomplished so much for countless millions of people. To be unaware of the reason of the cross of Christ is to miss the entire purpose and destiny of life.
In the parable of the great supper the Lord speaks of three representative refusals to attend, each one picturing our refusal to the call of the Gospel. Why do we not respond to Christ? Here is what we miss, boxed in by the material realm.
One human trait stand out in the Bible as the ‘master sin’, which leads to so many others and becomes more entrenched as time goes by, yet is widely promoted. But God’s immeasurable love has provided a way of escape and eternal life.
Christ tells of a man with a great need who is obliged to get help from a friend already retired for the night. He obtains more than he needs, but only by his ‘importunity’, showing how we may successfully pray to God.
The deranged man of Gadara desperately sought Christ’s help, but on meeting him shouted to be left alone. His healing sparked alarm among his neighbours. Why is there such antipathy to Christ? Here is our resistance to Him, and the depths of conversion. And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over … Continued
The Saviour’s first incident of raising the dead took place at Nain, as a funeral party headed to the burial place. He showed his divinity and power, his vast compassion, and his readiness to impart spiritual life to the dormant and inactive souls of men and women.
The four reasons why Christ performed so many spectacular healing miracles in His ministry, and how they illustrate His transforming work in the lives of those who come to Him. The striking message of the restoration of sight to the blind Bartimaeus begging at Jericho. You May Be Also Interested In: Sermon: Things We Have Never … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Christ´s Love for Souls, How Christ Calls to Our Souls And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Luke 2 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Remembering Your Soul And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. (Luke 19:41-42) The deeper … Continued
Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it. And … Continued
The best known of all Christ’s parables (The Prodigal Son) traces the journey of a lost soul into a far country away from God, before circumstances conspire to awaken and bring the wanderer to seek reconciliation, pardon, purpose, happiness and eternal life. Here is the lovingkindness of the Lord. You May Be Also Interested in… … Continued
When a likeable rich young ruler asked Christ what he should do to gain eternal life, the Lord’s questioning uncovered massive obstacles that blocked his progress. Barriers to finding God: They are common to us all, but Christ can remove them and bring us to Himself. You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: How to … Continued
In a parable of servants waiting for their Lord, Christ portrays the human race, enslaved by endless alternatives to God, and spurning the liberty of His kingdom. Here are the futile masters we serve and the contrasting lovingkindness of the Lord in conversion to Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Only True Freedom … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Luke 17 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little … Continued
And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, … Continued
Christ explains the militant and orchestrated presence of evil in the world, and speaks of the hold that Satan has on human souls. He also shows the love of God in providing a way of reconciliation and life for all who desire and seek Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: The Awesome GodSermon: Experiencing God’s … Continued
Christ’s healing of the man with the withered hand is amazingly descriptive of the need and healing of the soul. Here is the step-by-step illustration of the elements of conversion in the Saviour’s words: “Rise up… stand forth… stretch forth thy hand”. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: The Greatest Rescue of … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How to Enter the Kingdom Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. But … Continued
‘There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came … Continued
The cross of Calvary is the heart of the Christian message, for without an atonement for sin there can be no reconciliation with God. Here is God’s call to us from the mysterious three hours of darkness that occurred while Christ suffered for sin. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Seven Voices of CalvarySermon: Aspects … Continued
Four words display the heart of Christ in redeeming souls. Here is why He could only be executed at Golgotha, why the leaders and the people supported it, why crucifixion was the only possible method of death and the unique significance of the One who died. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christ Enduring The … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Components of Faith And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, … Continued
Why the removal of guilt is vastly greater than wealth, power or fame, and how it brings about union with God. Here is the full spectrum of our need in the sight of the Lord, and the benefits that the removal of guilt unblocks. You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: Redeemed from guilt, redeemed from … Continued
The great emphasis of the Bible is that conversion to God is a free and gracious gift that cannot be earned or deserved. And yet we have hindrances that deter us from approaching Him. Here they are, and how they may be resolved. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Booklets: Seven Certain … Continued
The parable of the disappointing fruit tree portrays God the Father and God the Son considering the saving of unbelieving people. Here is the human situation from God’s point of view, and the heart of God in providing a way of salvation and life. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How God Turns Hearts, A … Continued
The mystery of three seemingly keen disciples who were declined by the Lord. God does not always receive those who appear to seek Him, and here Christ shows why. Here also is the right way to desire salvation and what sincere seekers experience. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: A Seeker’s ProblemsSermon: The … Continued
Christ’s parable of the lost sheep tracks the giving of the parable to record crowds including many hostile leaders. He emphasises that God’s mercy is to individuals, showing the divine motive, our lost condition, the costly recovery of the lost, and the Saviour’s ultimate victory. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: … Continued
Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Troubles of Unbelief, The Folly of Unbelief And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… More Sermons: All Gospel SermonsBook: Crook in the Lot But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed. In that day, he which … Continued
Christ’s parable of the rich fool shows a man detached from the deeper realities of life, carried along by the here-and-now, consequently forfeiting all, and surrendering his soul to judgement. Here is the love of Christ in saving both life and soul for eternity. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christ Defines Spiritual Life And … Continued
And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, … Continued
Healing the bent-over woman in the synagogue, the Lord declares her ‘loosed’ rather than healed, showing the miracle to be a picture of our release (at conversion) from all the moral and spiritual limitations that bind us away from God. Here is true conversion. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: True Freedom, The Only True … Continued
In the Lord’s parable of the ten pounds, a nobleman’s citizens cried, ‘we will not have this man to reign over us!’ Here is why, how it parallels our rejection of God (before conversion), and what makes His reign ‘over us’ so magnificent. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: The Deep Things of God, … Continued
A trick question is put to Christ by the Pharisees in the hope of discrediting Him, to persecute Him, but He confounds them with a disarming reply that imparts all we so much need to know about the kingdom of God, and how to enter it.
In three short sentences, designed to surprise and challenge, the Lord shows the emptiness of possessing only ‘material’ life and clinging tenaciously to it, then the vast superiority of having life in the soul. Here is what it means to follow Christ, and be eternally safe.
And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the … Continued
The Saviour’s call to ‘ask-seek-knock’ conveys the whole message of salvation in a single illustration. Here is how to ask (with the mind) to seek (with the heart) and to knock (with the will) on the door that opens to Christ and new life.
‘And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 11 And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: Awake, our souls; away, our fearsSermon: A Necessary Fear Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. And he would not for … Continued
In two miniature parables, Christ shows the necessity of taking stock of life to avoid the loss of spiritual life and blessing. Here is the building of a tower that could not be completed, and the fighting of a war that could not be won.
Christ calls us to think about what life should really accomplish and the central importance of the soul. They show how much we need God’s words for the soul to live, and the tragedy of devoting our entire lives to this material life and losing Heaven.
As Christ hung on the cross in agony of body and soul, making atonement for all who are saved, a criminal executed alongside Him began to see Him in a new light, and yielded his life to Him. Here is that ‘model’ conversion, and what was involved.
Not a charming story but a series of profound and vital facts about Christ and His work. Here the questions are answered – Why shepherds? Why an angel? Why ‘good tidings’? Why the term ‘Saviour’? Why the sign of a manger and then a choir?
Christ’s parable of the pounds had a message for His Jewish hearers, plus an ongoing one to the people of all times, namely that everyone has an awareness or instinct of God and should invest it by seeking to find Him and know Him.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of … Continued
‘So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 22 … Continued
And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a … Continued
The doubts some people had about Christ (when on earth) mirror our doubts today. Here are the Lord’s own answers to people then, answers that resolve our misunderstandings in modern times, showing the reality of the faith, and the necessity of finding and knowing God.
The Roman military commander of Capernaum gradually sees he is unfit for God, and grasps the soul-saving purpose of Christ. He gives up the six beliefs of all who hope that their works will gain God’s favour, and embraces free forgiveness by grace.
Full chapter _____________ Luke 6 And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not … Continued
The Lord Himself tells us that patience possesses or holds firm the soul in communion with God. This is an active form of patient endurance, including spiritual hope and joy, and here are key texts illustrating its promotion in all the pressures of life.
A short parable of Christ about a failing fig tree, illustrating the Saviour’s lovingkindness and mercy in redeeming and transforming worthless and dying souls. Here is the privileged uniqueness of humankind, tragically alienated from God, and the way from meaninglessness to union with the Lord.
The ‘principles’ contained in key Scripture texts that decide whether a pursuit is of the world; plus an examination of dancing, with special attention to David’s dancing before the Lord, and the impossibility of this justifying modern dancing either in worship or in the world.
The parable of the sower reveals four different reactions to spiritual matters, in particular – to the good news of pardon and life from Christ. What influences our response against our deepest and eternal interests? Christ tells us how we may change.
Conversion to Christ may take place in a moment, but more often we discover what it means to find Him by stages. Here is the experience of Simon Peter, tracing his phases of reluctance up to the great moment of genuine faith.
Christ’s miniature parable of the ‘evil eye’ uses seeing disorders to illustrate our inability to see the spiritual purpose of life, our predicament before God, and our need of forgiveness and reconciliation. Here is God’s provision for us, and the way to know Him.
He who saw Satan cast out of Heaven began His ministry in voluntary subjection to the adversary’s extreme malice. Yet even the Lord of Glory must do so to ‘qualify’ to be our representative and Saviour. Here is the meaning of each temptation and response.
Christ’s parable of a crooked estate manager is about making arrangements for life and eternity. How stable are our riches and accomplishments? How useful are our contacts and friends in terms of eternal influence? Here are the real riches of life that only the Saviour gives.
The feeding by Christ of 5000 men plus women and children on the north-eastern shore of Galilee was one of the most significant of all His ‘teaching miracles’. Here is what it said to the people, and to us, about our need for conversion to Christ
And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. … Continued
In the parable of the great supper an invited guest declines to attend, implying he has better things to do. Here the Lord reasons with His hearers about their supreme need of God, and the consequences of being confined to a life of materialism.
Refuting samples of claimed discrepancies in the gospels, demonstrating the unreasonableness of unbelief. Also the Matthew/Luke beatitude passages, which provide different perspectives, inspired by the Spirit, to show the full message intended by the Saviour. Plus, a review of Christ’s divinity in Matthew.
A terribly sick woman who had haemorrhaged for twelve years crept up behind the Saviour in a crowd and touched the hem of His garment. The purpose of this healing miracle was to portray how faith secures God’s healing of the soul and eternal life.
Everyone, whether aware of it or not, is searching for fulfilment and happiness, and here are the forms this search takes. But the true needs of the heart can only be met by finding God. Here is the real search, and how to make it.
The good Samaritan is perhaps the best known and least understood parable of Christ. It has an ethical message plus a parallel message which became obvious once Christ was crucified. He was the ‘Samaritan’ who tends those dying eternally from the wounds of sin.
Most people, even if they barely believe in God, feel they would pass any test for acceptance by Him. Here Christ, in a parable, shows what Heaven’s terms really are, how we should see ourselves, and God’s readiness to forgive those who own their unworthiness.
The paralysed man famously lowered through the roof into the place where Christ was teaching was not only healed but forgiven all his sins. This deeply significant miracle pictures the paralysis of the soul, and how life and a new experience comes by conversion to Christ.
Christ’s parable of the rich fool who preserved his riches but neglected his soul, is a truly sympathetic way of showing us how we plan and act when away from God. Here is how we think, and its cost, unless conversion to Christ intervenes.
‘And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 1 Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Even as they delivered them unto us, which … Continued
Perhaps the best known of the Lord’s parables is the prodigal son, but most people do not realise how closely it portrays the life-course of us all when we forget the soul, and also when we seek and find Christ in a personal way.
Why do we believe the things we do, that drive our lives and shape our tastes and decisions? Who gave us our views? Can their truth be tested? Here are today’s typical ‘values’, compared with the rule given by Christ for building a life for now and eternity.
Countless people put no value on their soul. They feel no need of help for either this life or eternity. Here, through an unusual parable, Christ shows His availability to seekers for spiritual life, how they must approach Him, and what He will do for them.
Christ’s healing of ten lepers not only illustrate the spiritual life He gives to countless people living far from God, but shows that our perception of ‘need’ is limited to earthly, material things. Here is why we must see beyond these, to the needs of the soul.
A half deranged outcast man is put into his right mind and transformed as a person at the word of Christ. Here are the elements of conversion that are intended to be traced from the event, and how much is accomplished in our lives.
The sad scene of a widow’s only son lying dead led to the son being raised to life through Christ’s compassion. The event is intended also to picture spiritual death and all it deprives us of, and how we can receive spiritual life from the Saviour.
Human pride, perhaps, is the greatest snare, having many forms, immense subtlety, and bringing upon us the opposition and indignation of God. Here are its main injuries to life and soul, and the only way to end its dominance, by the power of God.
Atheists claim Christianity uses hell to scare people into believing. But it would be amazingly callous not to mention Christ’s teaching on judgement, so that people never knew their situation. The aim is not fear, but openness to consider the love and mercy of God.
In a single verse Simeon’s biography gives four features of a life the Lord will use for His glory. How we should covet these, praying for them and cultivating them. Here is the way to great instrumentality wherever we are placed, and the basis of assurance.
When Christ came the Jewish leaders wanted His mighty miracles on their side, without His message of conversion. But He insisted on the great change of life He gives to needy souls. Here is how He described it, and what it achieves in us.
A blind beggar of Jericho called out to Christ for healing and was rewarded. But this was more than a miracle. It was a demonstration of what Christ would do for billions who cry out for spiritual sight, forgiveness and life. Here is how these are obtained.
Conversion to Christ is entirely by grace, or free, yet coming to Him involves leaving several things behind, and here are those things. The Lord’s encounter with a very rich young ruler, whose search for eternal life was aborted, shows what our approach must be.
Wandering far from God we may be entirely ‘at peace’, having no spiritual interest or troubles of conscience, even dismissing God with scorn. But here is the basis of this peace, what happens when it is broken, and how real peace with God may be found.
Christ’s parable of the rented vineyard was intended to illustrate how we grasp life for ourselves and resist all the overtures of God. The parallels are clear and challenging, showing the length to which Christ has gone to save lives for eternity.
And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was … Continued
People often do not realise how much is accomplished if God forgives their sins. Here are the facts of guilt and forgiveness – what cannot secure forgiveness, and what does. Here also are the gains and benefits (and the cost to God Himself).
But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; … Continued
Three seekers, one a scribe, another a regular observer of Christ, desire to become full disciples, but something is wrong. All have some reservation or hesitation. Christ shows each one what prevents him from wholehearted ‘conversion’. It is priceless counsel for seekers in every age.
There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came … Continued
Christ’s healing of the man with a withered hand was one of the smallest of His miracles, yet an immensely important picture of the non-functioning soul, and its needs. Here is His enacted message to draw people to Himself for spiritual life and salvation.
Why the place was so important; who ‘they’ were, and their significance; why it had to be crucifixion, and all that it meant; and the fact that of all people it was ‘Him’ upon that cross, the Saviour of the world. Four words that move hearts.
‘Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 15 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and … Continued
And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. (Luke 18:9-10) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle … Continued
Christ says that His salvation is easy, yet He also mentions difficulties. Here are the things that make it difficult, that we are reluctant to accept. But here also are the things that make it easy for us to open the gate of new and eternal life.
Christ’s parable of the lost sheep presents His concern for individuals, His costly labour for them, and His readiness to carry the spiritually wandering to eternal life and safety. Here an apparently simple plot conveys the deepest and most needed message in the world.
For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. (Luke 19:10) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs of the soul. Permit me, as a pastor for many years, to plead with you not to … Continued
The necessity of the Cross of Calvary; the unfolding story; the mysterious three hours of darkness that terrified and silenced the vast crowd; their meaning and their message; why Calvary is the greatest event in history; the eternal significance of our personal reaction.
It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. (Luke 15:32) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs of the soul. Permit me, … Continued
Christ’s parable of the faithful servant portrays our duty to God, who gave us our bodies, faculties and powers. What do we do with these, and with Christ’s invitation to spiritual life and power? Here are the message and the promises of a life-changing parable.
‘And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 5 And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake … Continued
The Pharisees asked Christ a question to trap Him, but He gave a totally unexpected reply that challenged them – and us also. Is the Kingdom of God in us, and are we in it? Here are its characteristics and blessings, and how it may be entered.
The healing of a severely bent-over woman by Christ was certainly an act of compassion, but it was also a picture of release from spiritual bondage. Here are the limitations that bind us through life, that can only be removed by the Saviour of the world.
Human beings are servants by nature, and here are some of the things that we are willingly enslaved by. We have only so much time to discover that Christ alone is worthy of service. Here are His attributes and plans, and His call to spiritual life.
‘And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 23 And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate. And they began to accuse him, saying, We found … Continued
‘And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 23 And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate. And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give … Continued
A call to conversion in one of Christ’s shortest sermons. Conversion is presented as a personal approach to Him for pardon and a transformed, eternal life. Here is what He does in one’s life, and the gains and losses involved in yielding to Him or rejecting Him.
Full chapter _____________ Luke 23 And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate. And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Cæsar, saying that he himself is Christ a King. And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the … Continued
The forgiveness of God and reconciliation with Him can never be earned or deserved. They are free. Yet Christ tells us there are conditions. Here is how we must approach Him – what we must think, believe and say. When sincerely followed, these instructions open the door to Life.
Christ told a vast multitude twin parables, first of a high-achiever building a conspicuous tower for self-gratification and of a hostile ruler waging war. Both depict the human desire to live independently of God’s rule and help. Here is the vastly happier better course.
A Roman centurion came to faith in Christ, but how? It begins with a great need, continues with the realisation of sinfulness, is accelerated by his awareness of who Christ is, and concludes with his believing appeal for the Lord’s help. Here is how we may have a parallel experience.
The best known of all Christ’s parables is surely the prodigal son, showing the nature of our rebellion against God, our spiritual vacuum, and what happens when God wakes us up to our condition, and draws us to find Him by repentance and faith.
Christ’s parable of the barren fig tree portrays our privileges as human souls, our failure to produce homage for our Creator, and His mercy in providing a way of salvation. Here is what Christ did to secure pardon, and what He does in the lives of all who seek Him.
Christ’s parable of the pounds challenges us about something that God has placed in our constitution – an awareness, by instinct, that He exists. Do we invest this knowledge, or suppress it? To invest means to find out about God, and how to approach Him for pardon and life.
One of the thieves crucified next to Christ came to view Him in a new way, and to ask for eternal life. This event provides a perfect picture of conversion to God. What brings us to seek Him? How may we find Him? A message to change lives.
Christ’s parable of a great supper with invitations refused, reflects our rejection of God’s overtures to us. Here are our main reasons for refusing Him, and all that we lose by it. Here, too, is how we may reverse our rejection, the greatest moment of our life.
In the parable of the rich fool, Christ the Lord, shows us our self-confidence, self-esteem, self-consideration and self-destruction. We see all that we lose by a life of materialism, and its inherent foolishness. Here, Christ pleads with our souls.
Though long foretold (also by Christ) the resurrection shocked the disciples. By His appearances Christ showed His divinity, the success of His atonement, His closeness to His people, their eternal security, His readiness to show them proofs, His desire for their service, and the certainty of end-time prophecies.
Through the life of Simon Peter we may trace several stages of his opening up to Christ and seeking personal spiritual life. Conflicting aims and misunderstandings are resolved as he comes to the decisive point of faith and surrender to the Lord of life. His experience helps us.
What is the purpose of your life? Is your objective earthly or eternal? Is it material or spiritual? Christ lived on earth according to a set plan to accomplish our reconciliation with God. Our response to His life and work determines whether we have a heavenly destiny or purpose.
We cannot imagine the glory of divine light that filled the sky and hills around the shepherds when the angel of the Lord appeared, nor the praise of the only angelic choir ever heard on earth. Here we marvel and learn from what the shepherds heard and saw of Christ.
Christ’s mini-parable of the defective eye shows how distorted our view of ourselves and of spiritual realities may be. Here are typical distortions – they may be ours – and the key things we must see to successfully find the Lord.
Christ’s parable of a crooked manager pictures our misappropriation of our God-given lives, except that the manager made provision for his future survival. How should we relate to the God of eternity? A message to show how Christ may be found and known.
People may believe in essential human goodness, or in permissiveness, or in themselves and their power to be happy. Often there is a refusal to actively believe in God. Here is what we miss without a hold on God and how we may approach Him and know Him.
‘And he, that is Jesus, said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee. Go in peace.’ I would like to respond to the gracious welcome which has been given to me by Mr. Chris Cooper and by you all. It has been a very great pleasure and privilege for me to be in … Continued
The miracle of the feeding of the 5000 people was intended both as a proof of Christ’s divinity, and a lesson on conversion. Every stage of the miracle illustrates how moral and spiritual transformation comes only by trust in Christ.
Doubts about God have always disturbed people wondering about their souls and the possibility of life after death. Here is how Christ helped doubters in His day to determine what was true, and how He could be approached, found and proved.
The Lord’s healings were acts of compassion demonstrating His divinity, and also pictures of spiritual healing. Here we see the losses incurred by soul-paralysis, compared with the benefits of obtaining healing and life for the soul. This is about having God’s forgiveness.
Not the four from Greek teaching, but four types of outlook sketched by Christ in the parable of the sower. Everyone fits in here as our lives are scanned and our reactions to God described. Where is life going?
‘And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.’ Full chapter _____________ Luke 14 And it came … Continued
Christ’s encounter with a rich young ruler shows four reasons why this man – along with most other people – are unable to find God in a personal way. If these misunderstandings are resolved, He may be sought and known.
Treasures from the past – the third of four rare recordings from the renowned Bible commentator (1900-1982). A stirring, heart-warming devotional survey from one who excelled in combining quality of scholarship with simplicity of expression. A great example of the art of taking sublime truths and helping people feel them in their hearts.
