Six Biblical Steps for Guidance
This article presents the traditional view that we are to seek real guidance from the Lord in all the major decisions of life, and he will certainly clarify our thinking, or overrule our circumstances.
God Separates Again the Church and the World
‘And Isaac intreated the LORD for his wife, because she was barren: and the LORD was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived.’
David’s Reasoning and Response
‘Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.’
Does the Lord Really Guide?
The last few decades has seen the rejection of a precious Biblical principle – that God has a specific plan and purpose for the life of each of his children, and that they should seek his direction in all the great issues of life.
God’s Grace Despised and Damaged
‘But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but, as the LORD liveth, I will run after him, and take somewhat of him.’
Remember the Lord’s Day
Why did the Lord institute the sabbath day, and in what way has it changed with the coming of Christ? This article responds to these questions, showing that the sabbath principle is still God’s will for believers today.
Learning from Abraham’s Faith
‘And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.’
Man’s Way or God’s Way?
‘Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the LORD had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper.’
Against Hastening to Remove from our Post of Duty
Do we shy away from Christian service? As the Lord’s workers we should desire to glorify Him. Christian service is not about selecting the comfortable positions; it is best to yield our own will to the will of God altogether.
Conditions for Blessing in the Church
‘And Abraham journeyed from thence toward the south country, and dwelled between Kadesh and Shur, and sojourned in Gerar. And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, She is my sister: and Abimelech king of Gerar sent, and took Sarah.’
Preserving the Church in an Immoral Society
‘And the LORD appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day; And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground.’
God’s Power in Providence
‘And Elisha came again to Gilgal: and there was a dearth in the land; and the sons of the prophets were sitting before him: and he said unto his servant, Set on the great pot, and seethe pottage for the sons of the prophets.’
Kindness – Gratitude – Faith – Worship
‘And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.’
The Vast Benefits of the Covenant
‘Now Sarai Abram’s wife bare him no children: and she had an handmaid, an Egyptian, whose name was Hagar.’
The Life of Elisha – God’s Provision in Debt
‘Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets unto Elisha, saying, Thy servant my husband is dead; and thou knowest that thy servant did fear the LORD: and the creditor is come to take unto him my two sons to be bondmen.’
Who Cares About Your Soul?
King David, in great anxiety, said, ‘No man cares for my soul’ (referring to his entire being and purpose of living). Perhaps no one – even you – cares for your soul, except God. What is the soul, and what can God do for it?
The Promises of God to Abram
‘After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.’
Unto Him Shall the Gathering of the People Be
‘David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father’s house heard it, they went down thither to him. And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men.’
The Essence of Manliness
‘And Abram went up out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had, and Lot with him, into the south.’
Remedies for Problems in Prayer
We may have no assurance, coldness, and small desire to pray. Isaiah 50.10 is a good solution: ‘Who is among you.. that walketh in darkness and hath no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God.’
The First Journey of Faith
Abram, by faith, leaves his former life and culture and receives seemingly unfulfillable promises. Soon he is tested and falters, yet God had already provided a solution. Here are the lessons for today, and how those four mighty promises are fulfilled in believers even now.
The Church Made Distinct at Babel
The seeds of the woman and the serpent will always be in conflict (Genesis 3.15), but Babel marked ‘world government’ and supremacy of idolatry. God scattered languages and people to preserve the godly line and show the ungodliness of world social reformation as a goal for believers.
The Absolute Authority of the Word of God
‘Now Jehoram the son of Ahab began to reign over Israel in Samaria the eighteenth year of Jehoshaphat king of Judah, and reigned twelve years. And he wrought evil in the sight of the LORD; but not like his father, and like his mother: for he put away the image of Baal that his father had made.’
Spiritual Lessons from the Flood
‘And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.’
Isaiah Foretells Christ the Saviour
‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’
The Sensing of Christ’s Presence
We see in this study how beautiful pervasive perfume depicts the sensed presence of Christ, and how his biblical names (Shepherd, Husband, Friend, Prophet, Priest, King and Lord) lift the soul in all circumstances. There is no more moving theme for reflection.
The God of Wisdom, Grace and Justice
‘And when the sons of the prophets which were to view at Jericho saw him, they said, The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him.’
And God Looked
‘The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.’
True and False Worship Begins
‘And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD. And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground.’
God’s Work in His Kingdom – Continues
“And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal.”
The Day of Small Things
‘The earth is the LORD’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods.’
Losing and Regaining Faith
‘Were not the Ethiopians and the Lubims a huge host, with very many chariots and horsemen? yet, because thou didst rely on the LORD, he delivered them into thine hand.’
Before the Fall
‘And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.’
The Extraordinary Power of Awakenings
‘The hand of the LORD was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones.’
The Foundation of Life and Faith
‘In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.’
Close Communion with the Lord
‘O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.’
Five Keys to God’s Law
There is nothing quite like the Ten Commandments for stimulating progress in sanctification, once our minds are primed to see all that they teach. In the New Testament we read that keeping them is an act of love to Christ, and also the basis of assurance. This article employs five biblical keys to unlock the riches of the ‘royal law’.
The Restoration of Israel
‘The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD God of Israel, saying, Write thee all the words that I have spoken unto thee in a book.’
Events That Precede Spiritual Restoration
‘Now these are the words of the letter that Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem unto the residue of the elders which were carried away captives, and to the priests, and to the prophets, and to all the people whom Nebuchadnezzar had carried away captive from Jerusalem to Babylon.’
Why Live and Die Without the Lord?
The great challenging question of the inspired Bible-writers of old – why? What are the motives that drive us away from God and His eternal plan for all who trust in Him? Here is why we recoil from Him, and all that we miss as a result.
The Battle of Truth and Error
‘In the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying,
Thus saith the LORD to me; Make thee bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck.’
The Unchanging God in a Changing World
‘For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.’
The Last Words of David
“Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said… The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.’
The Still Small Voice
‘And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.’
But Not For Ever
‘And I will for this afflict the seed of David, but not for ever.’
Divine Directives for Uncertain Paths
‘Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore.’
The Garden of Eden
It is often claimed by those cynical toward the Bible that Genesis 1 is contradicted by Genesis 2. But these claims are so obviously mistaken and easily refuted. Genesis is amazingly precise and consistent as narrative.
Crossing the Jordan
‘And Joshua rose early in the morning; and they removed from Shittim, and came to Jordan, he and all the children of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over.’
God’s Pleading and Ours
‘The word… which Jeremiah the prophet spake unto all the people of Judah, and to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, From the thirteenth year of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, even unto this day, that is the three and twentieth year, the word of the LORD hath come unto me, and I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking; but ye have not hearkened.’
Who Art Thou, O Great Mountain?
‘Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it.’
Does Everyone Have a Guardian Angel?
It is enough to know and believe what the Word of God has revealed, that the holy angels of God take special care of each believer. In this respect angels are collectively called ‘their angels’ (Matthew 18.10). They are said to encamp about them that fear the Lord (Psalm 34.7). This is further evident by the many services which angels do to them and for them.
The Way of All the Earth
‘Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man.’
Prophecies of the Gospel Age in Jeremiah
‘Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.’
How God Views Wayward Churches
‘The word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, when king Zedekiah sent unto him Pashur the son of Melchiah, and Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah the priest, saying, Enquire, I pray thee, of the LORD for us; for Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon maketh war against us; if so be that the LORD will deal with us according to all his wondrous works, that he may go up from us.’
Comfort for Tried Believers
Are you troubled, and are you inclined to despair? Take counsel; these storms are not beyond what believers in Jesus can bear. Is not the Lord himself with you as your captain, and is not the Holy Ghost with you as your guide, and have you not a faithful God to trust to in the stormiest night you may ever know?
Jeremiah’s Depression and Triumph
‘Now Pashur the son of Immer the priest, who was also chief governor in the house of the LORD, heard that Jeremiah prophesied these things. Then Pashur smote Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the stocks that were in the high gate of Benjamin, which was by the house of the LORD.’
The Awesome God
What is awe? A teenage boy went to see the Niagara Falls and was overwhelmed by the power of that mighty cascade of water. Riveted to the spot, he really felt its danger and magnificence. He went down to the lower shelf to view the falling water from behind, and could not stop talking about it for days. That’s awe.
C H Spurgeon on the Present Financial Crisis
Financial scandals demonstrate the foolishness of believing that you can have morality without Christianity. Spurgeon here refers to the crisis around Overend, Gurney and Company, which collapsed in 1866. The Bank of England refused to bail it out, leading to the collapse of over 200 other banks and companies. How history repeats itself.
The Might of the Divine Potter
‘The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter’s house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words.’
Are there Gossips Among Us?
Gossip has been defined as idle talk or compulsive news-mongering, including the spreading of groundless rumour. Do we indulge in it? To see the ugliness of it and its effect upon the church ought surely to make us think, and put us off. We must neither speak gossip, nor listen to it.
The Thermometer of True Faith
‘Behold, they say unto me, Where is the word of the Lord? let it come now. As for me, I have not hastened from being a pastor to follow thee: neither have I desired the woeful day; thou knowest: that which came out of my lips was right before thee.’
Elijah – A Broken Man Restored
‘And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time.’
A Musician’s Perspective on Contemporary Christian Music
The music used in contemporary Christianity is a testimony to the decline of reverent worship and intelligent praise in many so-called reformed churches. This article briefly looks at some of the reasons why certain music is inappropriate for the dignified worship of Almighty God. Is it neutral? Can it ever be neutral?
Warnings and Promises from God
‘The sin of Judah is written with a pen of iron, and with the point of a diamond: it is graven upon the table of their heart, and upon the horns of your altars; whilst their children remember their altars and their groves by the green trees upon the high hills.’
Sympathy Undergirds Soulwinning
‘Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people!’
Infant Salvation
Let every parent know assuredly that it is well with the child, if God has taken it away from you in its infant days. You never heard its declaration of faith; it was not capable of such a thing. Nevertheless, you may rest assured that it is well with the child, well in a higher and a better sense than it is well with yourselves.
Spiritual or Aesthetic Worship? The First Broken Principle
Aesthetic worshippers believe that genuine praise needs a ‘physical’ dimension greater than mere unison singing. It assumes that God is an ‘aesthete’ – sitting in the heavens and looking down with appreciation at the skill and beauty that we bring before Him.
God’s Parallel Covenants
A divine covenant is a pledge by God to relate to mankind on certain conditions. God does not relate to man in a haphazard, random, disorderly way, but in accordance with clear principles and purposes, reflecting his holy nature and requirements.
The Beginning of the World
Genesis is the foundational book of the entire Bible, chronicling the origin of the universe and the human race, the entry of sin into the world, and the launching of the history of redemption. Many Christians do not know that all the great doctrines of the faith are introduced in this book.
When God Commissions
Many Bible-believing Christians, sadly, do not seem to have realised that each one has a personal commission. They think of themselves in a very humble way as recipients of the grace of God, but not as having received a special call to the service of Christ.
True Repentance for Believers
In Leviticus, the Lord prescribes very precisely the order and manner of worship. They were not to devise services for themselves, and even in our day of greater liberty we are not to create expressions of worship not seen in the New Testament.
Who Decides Our Eternal Destiny?
‘At that time, saith the LORD, they shall bring out the bones of the kings of Judah, and the bones of his princes, and the bones of the priests, and the bones of the prophets, and the bones of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, out of their graves.’
Jeremiah and Lost Believers
‘The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Stand in the gate of the LORD’s house, and proclaim there this word, and say, Hear the word of the LORD, all ye of Judah, that enter in at these gates to worship the LORD.’
The First Aim of the Gospel
‘O ye children of Benjamin, gather yourselves to flee out of the midst of Jerusalem, and blow the trumpet in Tekoa, and set up a sign of fire in Beth-haccerem: for evil appeareth out of the north, and great destruction.’
Two Pillars of Blessing
‘Run ye to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and see now, and know, and seek in the broad places thereof, if ye can find a man, if there be any that executeth judgment, that seeketh the truth; and I will pardon it.’
Will a Man Rob God?
‘Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.’
A Tale of Two Servants
‘But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but, as the LORD liveth, I will run after him, and take somewhat of him.’
The Feelings of a Soulwinner
‘If thou wilt return, O Israel, saith the LORD, return unto me: and if thou wilt put away thine abominations out of my sight, then shalt thou not remove.’
Biblical Urgings to Repentance
‘They say, If a man put away his wife, and she go from him, and become another man’s, shall he return unto her again? shall not that land be greatly polluted? but thou hast played the harlot with many lovers; yet return again to me, saith the LORD.’
‘It Is Well’
‘Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well.’
Fortifications for the Saints
‘Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following.’
The Reasoning Style for Challenging Souls
‘Moreover the word of the LORD came to me, saying, Go and cry in the ears of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the LORD; I remember thee, the kindness of thy youth, the love of thine espousals, when thou wentest after me in the wilderness, in a land that was not sown.’
The Call of a Spokesman for God
‘The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests that were in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin: To whom the word of the LORD came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign.’
The Nominal and the Backslidden Believer
‘And David said in his heart, I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any more in any coast of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand.’
Highs and Lows in the Spiritual Life
‘And the Ziphites came unto Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself in the hill of Hachilah, which is before Jeshimon? Then Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, having three thousand chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph.’
Finding a Virtuous Wife
‘And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran.’
How Trust Triumphs in Tests of Faith
‘Then they told David, saying, Behold, the Philistines fight against Keilah, and they rob the threshingfloors. Therefore David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.’
In the Beauty of Holiness
‘O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.’
The Need to Stabilise Faith
‘So David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel to Ramah, and told him all that Saul had done to him. And he and Samuel went and dwelt in Naioth.’
The World and the Church in Saul and David
‘And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.’
The First Major Test of Faith
‘And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? … And when the words were heard which David spake, they rehearsed them before Saul: and he sent for him. And David said to Saul, Let no man’s heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine.’
Joshua’s Sixteen Resolutions
Speaking by divine inspiration, the aged leader Joshua gave the people sixteen profound and heart-searching resolutions that stand to this day as monitors of the committed spiritual life. Although given in the form of exhortations, they are clearly intended to be embraced as personal resolutions or pledges by those who love and serve the Lord.
The Anointing and Guidance of David
‘And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Beth-lehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.’
The Invincibility of the Church
‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.’
How to Tell False Converts from True
‘Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison, that is on the other side.’
The Unseen Limits on Life
A parable from the prophet Isaiah shows major limitations placed by God upon human life when He is left out of consideration. Here are the consequences of a materialistic life, and the great release that comes from turning to the Lord.
The Rise and Fall of King Saul
‘And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh; And said unto the children of Israel, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I brought up Israel out of Egypt, and delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians… And ye have this day rejected your God…and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands.’
Was Saul Saved or Not?
‘Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power. And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.’
Ruling the House of God
‘And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.’
‘Adam, Where Art Thou?’
‘And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?’
The Call of Moses
‘Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.’
Responding to God’s Benefits
‘What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD.’
Perils of Presumption
‘And they of Beth-shemesh were reaping their wheat harvest in the valley: and they lifted up their eyes, and saw the ark, and rejoiced to see it.’
Reverence – the Key to True Joy
‘And the word of Samuel came to all Israel. Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle, and pitched beside Eben-ezer: and the Philistines pitched in Aphek.’
The Faith of Samuel
‘And [Elkanah] had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children. And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh.’
The Extraordinary Mercy and Kindness of God
David traces the reasons for personal sin in a life, the phenomenon of God’s mercy, the benefits of trusting Him, and the tragic result of rejecting His kindness. There is no treatment of sin and salvation as profound and uplifting as this psalm.
Is Self-Love Worth It?
‘Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.’
Recent Race Demonstrations
All manifestations of racial disrespect are disgraceful to sincere Christian people. They flow obviously from the Fall of man. All hatred, all superiority, all disdain, all persecution of ‘other’ ethnic groups and religions, together with all ideological persecution (which is the greatest killer in modern times), and all class prejudice is forbidden by the sixth commandment – ‘Thou shalt not kill.’
The Opportunity of a Lifetime
‘For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease.’
An Invitation Full of Hope
‘Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.’
Finding Beauty in Surprising Places
‘His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon.’
Authentic Signs of Spiritual Life
‘And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither.’
Encouraging Yourself in the Lord Your God
‘And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.’
From Prison to Palace
‘And it came to pass in the seven and thirtieth year of the captivity of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the seven and twentieth day of the month, that Evil-merodach king of Babylon in the year that he began to reign did lift up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah out of prison.’
Maintaining Spiritual Zeal
‘And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!’
Life and Death in the Tongue
‘There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.’
Keeping Our Heart
‘Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.’
The Believer’s Vow
New believers when truly enlightened and saved are moved to make a pledge or vow to God, which will be renewed and deepened throughout this pilgrimage. Here are the important features of such vows, their scope, and their benefits and blessings.
The Lord Our Shepherd
‘The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.’
Gold and Silver in Christ’s Temple
‘Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.’
Eternal Life in the Old Testament
It is said that there is little understanding of eternal life in the Old Testament, but this is very mistaken. 46 Psalms of David speak of eternal glory, and here we survey ten to show that all the Bible is about everlasting salvation.
Abraham and Lot – Two Different Attitudes to Life
‘And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren.’
The Disaster of Investing All in Earth, not Heaven
The richest king of his time, who indulged to extremes in pleasure, intellectual pursuits and creative skills, and who kept 700 wives – Solomon – eventually found a godless life futile and turned to the Lord. Here is his experience and his appeal to all for conversion.
Behold Your God
Who God is, His attributes, purposes and plans are often unknown to people today. Nor do we know how God views us and reaches out to us. Here is the God of the Bible, with His infinite kindness and power, and how He may be known.
A Stronghold in the Day of Trouble
‘The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.’
The Building of a Great House
‘And it came to pass, when the king sat in his house, and the LORD had given him rest round about from all his enemies; That the king said unto Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains.’
Trusting the All-Sufficient God
‘He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.’
The Value of Covenants
‘This covenant [grace] is the only city of refuge for a distressed soul to fly to for sanctuary, when all the billows and waves of temptation run over him, or Satan doth furiously assault him. If we fly to this armoury, we can never want weapons to resist the devil.’ – Benjamin Keach (1640-1704)
Paradise Lost and Found
The Biblical account of the Garden of Eden and the fall of mankind is the most profound and searching record of the beginning of sin in all literature. Dismissed in ignorance, it traces the loss and the regaining of vital contact with God.
The Supreme Decision
‘And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.’
Our Dangerous Journey
King David’s best-known psalm reveals his view of life’s journey. Claiming the Almighty God as his personal guide and Saviour, he points to all that we miss without this divine Shepherd, and the conversion experience that He gives to all who follow Him.
Imaginations of the Heart
What is the source and authority for our views about life, its source, how it should be lived, what standards we adopt, what we value and support, or what we believe in? Is the authority no more than the imaginations or desires of the heart?
The Beauty of Christ
‘I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.’
The Greatest Obstacle to Heaven
‘Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the LORD had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper.’
Why Resist Almighty God?
Human life is viewed here as a message sent to God, demanding that He gets out of our way, because we have no interest in Him. Here is what lies behind our hostility, what we lose by it, and the way to acceptance by Him.
The Lamb Slain for Us
‘And Samuel took a sucking lamb, and offered it for a burnt offering wholly unto the LORD: and Samuel cried unto the LORD for Israel; and the LORD heard him.’
The Only Valid Approach to God
The way to know God never changes throughout the Bible. This approach from a prophet-preacher 700 years before Christ is exactly the same as that found throughout the New Testament. Here are the steps of Hosea, to which the Lord will respond.
How Can God Be Loved?
How can the invisible, unfelt God be loved? It is not possible without some unmistakable experience of His intervention in our life. Here is how that may happen, so that we exclaim with the Psalm, ‘I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice.’
Why God Hears Some Prayers But Not Others
King David imparts his experience of prayer and lays out the key conditions for prayer to be heard and answered. So much prayer, we learn, is distasteful to God and disregarded. May the fundamental human instinct to pray lead to life and peace with God.
Seek With All Your Heart
‘And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.’
We Are What We Worship
An idol is any object or idea that substitutes for the true God. The Bible shows that idolatry is rampant in every life. Today the worship of self claims that individuals have the right to be themselves and have their desires – we become ‘God’.
Prayer is Real
‘And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.’
(Ex. 17:11-13)’
How To Connect With Almighty God
Here is a remarkable appeal by Moses to the people of his time about their souls being lifeless and non-operational. Are his famous signs of an inactive soul true of us?
Here is how Moses unfolds the way to connect with God.
The Parable of a Wasted Life
‘I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.’
Our Argument With God
God calls us to think, setting before us the unreasonableness of turning our backs on Him. He shows us what we are rejecting – namely, His forgiving love, the rebuilding of our character, the imparting of life to the soul, and everlasting joy and peace.
A Motto Text for Soulwinners
‘Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.’
A Small Sin With Everlasting Consequences
‘The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever.’
Man’s Strength Or God’s Might?
‘And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him. Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to shew the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king.’
God Appeals to Our Souls
Isaiah, 700 years before Christ, prophesies the last phase of the world, from the time of Christ to the end of the age. Throughout, many will be appealing to and urging people to turn to Christ. Here is how God reaches out to us.
Glorious Promises of God to Believers
A selection of the magnificent promises of God, noting their conditions, and resting on the fact that Christ by his righteousness and atonement secures their benefits for us. An inspiration to collect and embrace the texts of care, love and strength.
Answering Doubts About God And Faith
Here are several troubling objections to Christian faith drummed into modern society, and why they are entirely wrong. Here also are the chief evidences for the being of God, the basis for finding and knowing Him, and the proving of His life-changing power.
Under the Direction of the Lord
‘The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.’
God’s Plan for the World
David’s last prayer is one of the most remarkable and detailed prophecies of the Old Testament, describing what the coming Messiah (Jesus Christ) would do for the world. Every major act of Christ is here, and what these mean for our eternal souls.
The Causes of Apostasy
‘On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever.’
Hope for the Searching Soul
Job’s words, spoken so long ago out of very great need, are amazingly profound, revealing the vital steps in a search for God. Such a cry will lead to a great discovery of the soul and a ‘meeting’ with Him. Here is what may be found.
God-Given Components of Worship
‘Now in the twenty and fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and with sackclothes, and earth upon them. And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers.’
Attacks on God’s Work
‘Now it came to pass when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall..that Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together.. but they thought to do me mischief.’
Hardness in the Church
“And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews. For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many: therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live.” Nehemiah 5:1-2
The Church and the World
‘Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and they builded the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananeel.’
Identifying Enemies of the Word
‘Moreover I said unto the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may convey me over till I come into Judah.’
Things God Gives Only to Those Who Ask
All things come from God, but the greatest and most significant benefits in life come by application to Him. Here are the ‘deep things’ of God – His mercy and benevolence, and what the promises (in the Scriptures) do for all who ask.
God’s Call to Rebuild The Church
‘And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven.’
Separation for Christ
‘Then Ezra rose up from before the house of God, and went into the chamber of Johanan the son of Eliashib: and when he came thither, he did eat no bread, nor drink water: for he mourned because of the transgression of them that had been carried away.’
A Revival of Repentance
‘…the princes came to me, saying, The people of Israel, and the priests, and the Levites, have not separated themselves from the people of the lands, doing according to their abominations…for they have taken of their daughters for themselves, and for their sons: so that the holy seed have mingled themselves with the people…’
The Quiet Hero of Faith
‘Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.’
The Chief False Hopes of Life
King Solomon spoke for humanity throughout time when he listed the greatest false promises in favour of living an entirely material life without reference to God or spiritual matters. Here are few of them, believed by millions, and how they fail.
A Minister’s Credentials and Life
‘This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he was a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the Lord God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him.’
How To Thank The Lord
‘Praise ye the Lord; I will praise the Lord with my whole heart.’
Priorities for Christ’s People
‘Then the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, prophesied unto the Jews that were in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, even unto them. Then rose up Zerubbabel and Jeshua, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and with them were the prophets of God helping them.’
The Happy Man
‘Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.’
Lessons from the Life of Joseph
‘And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.’
Adversaries of God’s People
‘Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the children of the captivity builded the temple unto the LORD God of Israel; Then they came to Zerubbabel, and to the chief of the fathers, and said unto them, Let us build with you..’
The Two Worst Steps of Life
The prophet identifies in a single verse the two great missteps in life, giving two contrasting illustrations of human experience. One is a free-flowing fountain of meaning and happiness with God, and the other is a broken cistern representing toil and failure without Him.
What Were They Like?
‘And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem.’
A World-Changing Miracle
‘Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing.’
Paralysis of the Soul
According to the Bible, alienation from God is entirely due to the problem of sin. But what is sin, why should it be so offensive to God, and what is the biblical method of bringing about forgiveness and reconciliation with God?
Instead of God
There are many substitutes for God in human society – things to admire, live, serve or possess. Perhaps they are preferred to the true God because they have no moral authority over us. Let Isaiah unfold the differences between these and the true God.
The Dream of Life
What happens when the dream of life is over and the reality of God’s existence dawns? The Psalmist describes the futility of a life lived without God, and the inevitability of final judgement. Will we face Christ the Lord as our Saviour or as our Judge? ‘As a dream, when one awaketh, so, O Lord, … Continued
A New Heart
‘And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day.’
The Guidance of God
‘And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my master of his mercy and his truth: I being in the way, the LORD led me to the house of my master’s brethren.’
Sheltered from the Doom
‘Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.’
Jeremiah Predicts the Gospel Age
‘The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests that were in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin: to whom the word of the LORD came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign.’
How Atheism Steals our Hearts
In the disastrous decision of the ungodly king who took Judah into 70 years of captivity we see the very influence that manipulates away from God, and into rationalism and atheism. Here are the ‘levers’ used by unbelieving society to keep us from God.
Fret Not Thyself
Full chapter _____________ Psalm 37 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be … Continued
Seeking The Face Of The Lord
‘When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 27 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies … Continued
Discerning Between Saved and Unsaved
A survey of the book of Malachi, God’s final prophetic interaction with his people before the appearance of John the Baptist. It is cast in six sections: Israel’s spiritual apathy, condemnation of the priests, the charge of treachery, a great prophecy of Christ, a charge to consecration and the destinies of the saved and unsaved. Here are the pastoral lessons for us.
Seeking Peace with God
For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. And as soon as we had heard … Continued
How Worship Gets Corrupted
‘And king Ahaz went to Damascus to meet Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria, and saw an altar that was at Damascus: and king Ahaz sent to Urijah the priest the fashion of the altar, and the pattern of it, according to all the workmanship thereof.’ Full chapter _____________ Acts 20 In the seventeenth year of Pekah … Continued
Christ and His Work in Zechariah
‘Thus saith the Lord of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities: And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord, and to seek the Lord of hosts: I will go also.’ Related … Continued
Church-Age Blessings Foretold
‘Then I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a flying roll. And he said unto me, What seest thou? And I answered, I see a flying roll; the length thereof is twenty cubits, and the breadth thereof ten cubits.’ Related Resource: Church Age Predictions
The Cure for Heart Disease
Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and … Continued
The Spirit and Word All-Sufficient
‘Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.’ Related Resource: The Sword of the Spirit
Reasons for Faith
People may be brilliant and accomplished in several fields of learning and skill, yet unreceptive and unaware when it comes to the purpose of life and reconciliation with God. Here are miniature parables of Solomon that appeal to us all to be open to God. As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so … Continued
Spiritual Lessons from Zechariah
‘In the eighth month, in the second year of Darius, came the word of the Lord unto Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo the prophet, saying, The Lord hath been sore displeased with your fathers. Therefore say thou unto them, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; Turn ye unto me, saith the … Continued
Temple Prophecies
‘Then came the word of the Lord by Haggai the prophet, saying, Is it time for you, O ye, to dwell in your cieled houses, and this house lie waste? Now therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways.’ Related Resource: Christ Purges His Temple
The ‘Evangelical Covenant’ of Moses
This article will sweep through Deuteronomy 29 – 30 to demonstrate that it records how Moses presented an ‘evangelical covenant’ which was set beside and distinct from the covenant of Sinai, the latter being a ‘works’ covenant that could only condemn. (This is how Paul expounds it in Romans 10.)
When God Sows Seed
‘Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem one and thirty years. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the ways of David his father, and declined neither to the right hand, nor to the left.’ Full chapter _____________ … Continued
Lessons in Prayer From Nehemiah
‘And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven.’ Full chapter _____________ Nehemiah 1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. And it came to pass in the month Chisleu, in the twentieth year, … Continued
The Shadow of Life
King David looks back to his experiences of deep cynicism, describing how it gave way to a realisation of the futility of life without God. He saw life as a ‘shadow’, and provides us with a prayer for approaching and finding a forgiving God. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Greatest Rescue of Life, Seeking … Continued
Awakening under Hezekiah
From a series entitled ‘Lessons in Faith’ from the life of Hezekiah. Full chapter _____________ 2 Chronicles 29 Hezekiah began to reign when he was five and twenty years old, and he reigned nine and twenty years in Jerusalem. And his mother’s name was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah. And he did that which was … Continued
Lessons in Faith From Hezekiah
Part of a series of Bible Studies from 2 Kings entitled ‘Lessons in Faith’. Related Resource: Awakening under Hezekiah
A View of the Heart
Lessons in faith including Elisha with Hazael, showing the mechanism which begins all wars, and the deathbed act of Elisha exposing a king’s indolence, with spiritual applications. Related Resource: Rend Your Heart
The Eye of Faith
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 2 Kings entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elisha’. Related Resource: Answering Doubts About God And Faith
The Phenomenon of Love
The nature and scope of human love is impressive, but Divine love, made visible in history and, supremely in the atoning sacrifice of Christ, is limitless, freely bestowed and certain toward all who find Him. Here are the ‘lovingkindnesses of the Lord’ they experience. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: The Immeasurable, Personal Love of … Continued
The Counterfeit Christian
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 2 Kings entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elisha’. Related Resource: The World’s Most Notorious Counterfeiter & Sincerity First and Foremost in the Christian Armour
The Wounds That Still Speak
‘And one shall say unto him, What are these wounds in thine hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends. ‘ The Lord Jesus Christ said: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon … Continued
The Mighty Outcome of an Act of Witness
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 2 Kings entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elisha’. Related Resource: Inspiring Strong Personal Witness
Preparing the House of the Soul
When the prophet Isaiah told a king to set his house in order, the king knew that he meant the house of his soul, as well as his earthly affairs. Here are the five ‘departments’ of the soul, and how God may bring them to life. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tracts: The … Continued
The Prayer of Faith
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 2 Kings, entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elisha’. Related Resources: David’s Prayer of Faith & Lessons in Prayer From Nehemiah
Crying out for Salvation
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Height and Depth of Salvation, How to Apply for Salvation Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD. Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But … Continued
How We May Negate Our Faith
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 2 Kings, entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elisha’. Related Resources: Faith, Doubts, Trials, Assurance & Answering Doubts About God And Faith
Twin Pillars of Ministry
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 2 Kings, entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elisha’. Related Resources: An All-Round Ministry & Correcting the Ministry
Components of Faith
How is God to be approached in order to experience real conversion? Here are the two essential elements – repentance and faith – what they are, and how they must be expressed to God. Throughout the Bible these are always the two vital steps. You May Be Also Interested in… Bible Study: The Prayer of FaithSermon … Continued
Elijah’s Triumphant Last Years
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 1 Kings, entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elijah’. Related Resource: Spiritual Lessons from Elijah
The Burden Only God Can Remove
The Bible speaks of the record of sin kept in the depths of every conscience, suppressed by us, but brought out on the day of judgement. Only God can blot out our guilt, and here is why, how and when this may happen for us. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Freedom from Life’s … Continued
Spiritual Strengths Displayed
Related Resource: Spiritual Joy
Life’s Gains and Losses
The vanishing benefits of life wholly invested in this material world are here set against the solid, lasting experience of knowing Christ and His lovingkindness and power. Here also is the unreasonableness of unbelief, and how God is to be sought and found. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christ Defines Spiritual Life, Gaining Life … Continued
Alternating Blessings and Trials
Related Resource: Church-Age Blessings Foretold
Elijah’s Godly Jealousy
Part of a series of Bible Studies on 1 Kings, entitled ‘Lessons in Faith from the Life of Elijah’. Related Resource: Spiritual Lessons from Elijah
The Church’s Dangers
Related Resource: Backsliding Dangers
Our Wonderful Saviour
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the … Continued
The Christian’s Warfare
‘Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim. And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to morrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand.’ Full chapter _____________ Exodus 15 Then sang Moses and the children of … Continued
The Believer’s Strong Tower
Full chapter _____________ Proverbs 18 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself. When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach. The words of a man’s mouth are as deep waters, and … Continued
Solomon’s Fall and Recovery
Related Resource: Solomon’s Fall and Repentance
The Real Purpose of Life
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded … Continued
The Case for Conversion
King Solomon’s compelling illustrations of our spiritual need urge us to see the tragedy of living without the help of God, and without ever knowing the way to the city of pardon and blessing. You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: Seven Certain Signs of True Conversion Sermon: What exactly is conversion?, The Necessity of Conversion Dead … Continued
The Spiritual Heights of Solomon
Related Resources: Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Samuel to Solomon
Christ in the Temple
Related Resource: Christ Purges His Temple
Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom
Related Resource: Four Aspects of Wisdom
David and Solomon
Related Resource: Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Samuel to Solomon
The Disaster of Fleshly Show
Related Resource: Living for the Flesh or for the Spirit
Soldiers of Christ Arise
Related Resource: Sincerity First and Foremost in the Christian Armour
The Direction of Life
Related Resource: The Personal Spiritual Life
Disorderly Emotions
Related Resource: Answering Doubts About God And Faith
A Plea To Those Who Put Off All Serious Thought About God
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them; While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: In the … Continued
The Duty and Blessing of Attending God’s House
Full chapter _____________ Psalms 100-101 Psalm 100 – A Psalm of praise. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his … Continued
God Orchestrates Deliverance
Related Resource: Exercising a True Deliverance Ministry
External Beauty and its Dangers
Related Resources: The Origin of Beauty & Sarah’s Christ-Like Beauty
The Waters of the River of Life
Full chapter _____________ Ezekiel 47 Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house; and, behold, waters issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward: for the forefront of the house stood toward the east, and the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the … Continued
Joseph’s Flight To True Freedom
‘And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither.’ Full chapter _____________ Genesis 39 And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, … Continued
The Fall of David
Related Resource: David as King
Christ’s Kingdom Foretold
Related Resources: How to Enter the Kingdom
David Reforms Worship
‘Hezekiah began to reign when he was five and twenty years old, and he reigned nine and twenty years in Jerusalem. And his mother’s name was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father had done.’ Full chapter … Continued
David Dances Before the Lord
Related Resources: How King David Found God
David as King
Related Resource: King David’s View of Life
In The Land of The Philistines
Related Resources: Possessing the Land
Surprising Lessons in the Faith
David speaks to himself in self-pity, focussing on his trials, the power of Saul and the doubtful loyalty of his 600 men. Here are lessons from Satan’s assaults, and what David should have considered. Also, light on Saul and the witch of Endor. Related Resource: Faith’s Higher Reasoning
How to Reason with Ourselves
What accounts for Saul’s resistance to God? But there are the same tendencies even in us as believers. Supremely, in these chapters, are the four arguments of Abigail to deter David from sin, the same arguments so useful to us in restraining ourselves from temptation. Related Resource: Reasons for Faith
Faith Faltering and Revived
Beginning with the erosion of David’s trust in his subterfuge at Nob, proceeding to the total collapse of trust in his flight to Gath, and then the repair of faith in Psalms 34 and 56, and the token of future blessing in the rescue of Keilah. Related Resource: Lessons in Faith from David and Jonathan
Life For Evermore
‘Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the … Continued
Lessons in Faith from David and Jonathan
King Saul is under God’s judgement, and David has been secretly anointed as king. Here we see Jonathan’s faith and humility, while pride and suspicion consume Saul. We also see Saul’s classic false ‘conversion’ that soon fails, and David’s laying all before the Lord. Related Resource: David as King
Saul and David Contrasted
A fresh look at the famous defeat of Goliath showing that for the believer all events are a spiritual matter. Here it is seen that spiritual tenacity and strength co-exist with gentleness and kindness. Here also is the difference between working by flesh or spirit. Related Resource: Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David & From … Continued
Marital Oneness
A brief study of what it means to be ‘one flesh’, mainly expounding and applying to marriage the terms used by the apostle in 1 Corinthians 13. Often surprising and always challenging, these provide the principles for harmony and happiness in the sanctified life. Full chapter _____________ Genesis 2 Thus the heavens and the earth … Continued
Dependent Beings
When pilgrimages to Jerusalem reached the last stage of the journey, and the mountains of the city were in sight, this psalm was sung and explained – a call to look to God for reconciliation with Himself, pardon, life, and His power and guidance to eternity. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Unseen … Continued
The Triumph of Job
Job is humbled, repenting of his questioning of God. But he is accepted as a saved man. The ‘friends’ however are condemned and must repent of their false views of God. Job is restored but only when he brings forth fruits meet for repentance. Related Resources: The Meaning and Purpose of the Book of Job … Continued
Challenged by Beasts
We take the beasts to be a hippopotamus and crocodile, both teaching trust, the power and invincibility of God (for if He made them they must reflect His infinitely greater capacities) and the contrasting weakness displayed by Job. Related Resource: Job – Strengths and Vulnerabilities & Pastoral Lessons from Job
The Voice of God
Here are elements of Job’s humbling (vital for light, pardon and blessing) showing how the Lord works in the lives of all His people. Here also are pastoral lessons drawn from the wild goats, asses and oxen, and from the ostrich and the warhorse. Related Resources: The Triumph of Job & Truth Unfolded to Job
Truth Unfolded to Job
Elihu is a true messenger of God, whose reproof of Job is confined to Job’s post-affliction reactions. His noble speeches anticipate the very words of God, soon to follow, and he gives a full explanation of God’s use of affliction in the lives of His people. Related Resource: The Meaning and Purpose of the Book … Continued
The Moment of Truth
A passage that highlights the key moments in conversion to God; when personal sovereignty collapses, we see our separation from God, and then – the crowning moment – we see the price Christ the Saviour has paid for our forgiveness and reconciliation with Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Search for Truth, Finding … Continued
The Vulnerabilities of the Seasoned Saint
Charged with extreme hypocrisy by his friends, Job describes the virtuous works of his public and private life. But despite his godliness he seems to over-relish his wealth and station, and shows no evangelical compassion for the outcasts of society. Related Resourcea: A Sinner Turned Into A Saint & Every Saint is a Contender
Job – Strengths and Vulnerabilities
Job is denounced by his justified-by-works friends, but refutes their ideas. He criticises God for not having a complaints procedure for people like himself, yet at the same time, he witnesses to his friends in a magnificent poem on finding wisdom and truth. Related Resource: The Meaning and Purpose of the Book of Job
Pastoral Lessons from Job
Job longs for an explanation of his suffering, and for vindication before his ‘friends’. As his friends denigrate him, and his gloom deepens, he is suddenly given a moment of revelation about his personal Redeemer-God, incarnate, and visible to him in a final resurrection. Related Resource: The Triumph of Job
The Need for Revelation
Job’s ‘friends’ increase in hostility with charges of hypocrisy. Job clings to his evangelical view of grace, and upholds God’s perfection, but lapses into self-pity. He then eloquently trounces and disproves the liberal theology of the friends, and proclaims his testimony of salvation. Related Resources: Authentic Revelation & Revelation
The Case Against Evangelicalism
Eliphaz begins the attack by the so-called friends. Resenting Job’s evangelical salvation, and protecting their works theology, they insist he is a hypocrite under judgement. They deny that God requires holiness – only a pass mark. With pastoral lessons from Job’s first reply. Related Resources: The Social Mandate – The Imposter in Evangelicalism
Key Lessons from Job
The excellencies of Job, the encounters of Satan with God, Job (unknowingly) placed by God to demonstrate the reality of conversion, his crushing afflictions, the shock of his friends, and his magnificent poem of dismay – and the blessings he lost sight of (like us). Related Resources: Truth Unfolded to Job & Job – Strengths … Continued
The Kingdom of Priests
The contrast between rejected Israelites who invented their own ‘gods’ to their taste, and the remnant who feared the Truth. Then the great upheaval of the New Testament and the lasting features of revived Zion of elect Jews and Gentiles and their worship. Related Resources: The Priesthood of All Believers (2) & The Priesthood of … Continued
Episodes of Christian Pilgrimage
‘Hitherto hath the Lord surrounded us’ – the full sense of this famous text with examples of extraordinary helps received by God’s people in past and present; the background and inspiration of many today who expect great things and attempt great things for God.
God Explains His Future Policy
The call of the Gentiles along with a saved remnant of Israelites will form the New Testament church, the new creation (completely fulfilled in eternal glory). Here are the special blessings of Christ’s people, saved Jews and saved Gentiles, and how diverse saved personalities fellowship.
The Feelings of God
First God’s indignation at those hostile to believers and Truth (and how Calvary makes their judgement possible). Secondly, God’s kindnesses to believers, and how He is affected by our troubles; then God’s delight in surprising believers with unexpected blessings all the way to glory. Related Resource: Will Believers Pass Through The Judgement?
The Accomplishments of Christ
Messiah speaks of His coming to give forgiveness, life and liberty to lost souls, with happiness and righteousness. Here also is amazing detail of the nature and work of the new Jewish-Gentile church, with a unique pledge of protection and security from Messiah. Related Resources: The Mission of The Messiah & David Sees Messiah’s Reign
Personal Revival
‘Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 139 O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my … Continued
The Sin of Believing in Self
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. Honour the … Continued
Wisdom’s Invitation
You May Be Also Interested in… Series of Studies: Wisdom for LifeSermon: Wisdom or Folly? For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them. But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. (Proverbs 1:32-33) The deeper things of life … Continued
The Beauties of the Gospel Church
The Gospel era will bring an amazing Gentile harvest, transforming Zion into a proclaiming organ, with a mutual love between saved Jews and Gentiles, extending throughout the world. Little Israel will beome a worldwide church. Here are the many precious characteristics – our goal today. Related Resource: The Gospel Age Begins & Jeremiah Predicts the … Continued
Personal Reformation
In a great call to sincerity the prophet exposes the human tendency to hypocrisy in worship, asserting that any worship that does not change and shape life is useless before God, then outlines the magnificent blessings flowing from conscientious striving for holiness. Related Resources: God’s Rules for Holiness & John’s Steps to Holiness
The Voice of the Lord
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: The Voice of GodArticle: Seven Voices of Calvary Give unto the LORD, O ye mighty, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness. The voice of the LORD … Continued
Two Distinct Peoples
Here is the contrast between the people of Christ and the children of this world, with their entirely different worldviews, lifestyles, aims and commitments. Here also is the equality before God in every sense of believers of all backgrounds, and their eternal safety. Related Resources: Unchanging Christian Distinctives & Christian Distinctives
The Folly of Unbelief
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: The Troubles of Unbelief The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any … Continued
The Gospel of the Coming Church
Isaiah adopts the stance of a Gospel-age preacher proclaiming individual reconciliation and direct access to God by grace alone. Demonstrating Gospel reasoning he speaks of Christ and of Gentile salvation, crediting the outcome to irresistible grace – all with the astounding clarity of prophetic vision. Related Resources: The Gospel Age Begins& Jeremiah Predicts the Gospel Age
The Awesome God
Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: Before Jehovah’s awesome throneBook: Great God of Wonders Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest? For all those … Continued
False and Genuine Faith Compared
The Bible has many biographies of people who came to know God, and of others who failed to do so. The story of Micah remarkably portrays dead or false faith, and how it differs from a sincere approach to God, and authentic conversion. The Lord Jesus Christ said: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour … Continued
The Glories of the Gospel Church
The magnificent prophecy of the Gospel church describes Christ’s benefits and commission to his N.T. people giving us, 1) a new territory; 2) a new relationship; 3) a new composition, and 4) a new victory. Here are the promises of God for our preservation and power. Related Resources: The Gospel Age Begins & Jeremiah Predicts … Continued
Calvary in Isaiah
In language of soaring beauty and with characteristic detail and precision the prophet presents first, Christ’s exalted qualifications; secondly, His contrasting humiliation for the work of redemption; thirdly, His rejection; and fourthly, His unique and harrowing atonement, and finally our utter dependence upon Him. Related Resources: Isaiah Describes the Church of Christ & Isaiah Describes … Continued
Conquered by Grace
Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Book: Wonders of GraceSermon: The Pinnacle of Faith and GraceHymn: Amazing grace! how sweet the sound And the LORD spake to Manasseh, and to his people: but they would not hearken. Wherefore the LORD brought upon them the captains of the host of the king of Assyria, which … Continued
Isaiah Describes the Church of Christ
Nearly 700 years before the coming of Christ, the prophet details the principal features of the church to come: a people preserved; a people born in new revelation; a people who listen to God, and a people who live to proclaim the Gospel of Christ. Related Resource: Christ Prepares His Church & The Impregnable Church
The City that Repented
And Jonah began to enter into the city a day’s journey, and he cried, and said, Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown. So the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them. For word came unto the … Continued
The New Children of Zion
Having already said so much about Christ and His future church, Isaiah now shows the astonishing features of the coming Gentile conversion, the unreasonableness of unbelief to be overpowered, and the infallibility of Christ especially in the upholding of His redeemed people. Related Resources: Church Age Predictions & The Church Age Prophesied
The Redeemer Revealed
This review of four chapters begins with the fall of Babylon biblically foreshadowing the demise of this unbelieving world at the end of time (including the collapse in shame of evolution). Here also are the words of Messiah about His coming and work in the world. Related Resources: The Mission of The Messiah & David … Continued
The Vindication of the Saved
Here the N.T. church is shown to consist of those who are elect, spiritually converted, connected in a spiritual family, professing Christ and pledged to Him. Here also is how God superintends history for the church, including today as we approach the end of time. Related Resources: God Appeals to Our Souls, God’s Plan for … Continued
The Way of Cain
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Salvation at the Dawn of History And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper? And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground. And … Continued
The Harvest of the Future Gospel Church
The Gospel era will be for believers a time of labour for the Lord with much opposition, but here are the comforts of God beginning with Isaiah’s six great arguments for assurance. Here also are predictions of regenerating power and many special provisions. Related Resources: Paul’s Blueprint For A Believing Church & Paul’s Blueprint For … Continued
Hidden Things of God
People have always looked outside the concept of one true God to man-made gods (and to ‘no-God’) for the meaning of life. Here is why, and all that they miss, and here also is how God enters countless lives bringing eternal blessings. You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: Thou hidden source of calm repose Sermon: When … Continued
The Work of the Future Gospel Church
With further inspired insights into the Gospel era the prophet describes an entirely new order in which the church will proclaim Christ and His accomplished salvation, sing a new hymnody extending the book of Psalms, and labour as the church militant in evangelism. Related Resources The Beauties of the Gospel Church The Gospel era will … Continued
God’s Promises to the Gospel Church
An unbelieving world, says Isaiah, will be deaf to the message behind God’s mighty events (whether conquest or pandemic) while believers will know His love and power, and reap a great spiritual harvest. Here we explore the prophet’s powerful words and their fulfillment. Related Resources The Beauties of the Gospel Church The Gospel era will … Continued
Remember Now Your Creator
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. (Ecclesiastes 12:1) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs of … Continued
The Power of the Gospel Church
In this prophecy of the church age Isaiah demonstrates the challenging character of Gospel preaching, first stressing the obviousness of God, then His sovereign rule throughout history, and finally the rewards of faith and prayer – especially the power and strength imparted by Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Beauties of the Gospel … Continued
Isaiah Describes the Christian Era
It is astonishing just how much Isaiah was shown about the age of Messiah and the composition and work of the Gospel church. In just 17 verses of sublime literature we are given 11 features and doctrines of the Jewish-Gentile church of Christ. Home » Sermons » Isaiah Describes the Christian Era Related Resources Christian Fellowship After extolling Christ … Continued
God’s Way of Discipline
More on Hezekiah’s repentance. He is dying at 39 with no sons, and rendered unfit to continue the Davidic line. He thinks he is eternally lost and makes his model repentance, soon marred by another compromise. How very like our church situation today! Related Resources Awakening under Hezekiah From a series entitled ‘Lessons in Faith’ … Continued
The Greatest Possession in Life
Here are the aims and desires of all who live life without God, and their failure to gain what is desired. Here also are the obstacles that keep us from God, the benefits that come with His forgiveness, and how He is to be approached. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your Life Blessed … Continued
Threefold Repentance and Reformation
King Hezekiah’s soundness is seen in his purge of idolatry and sincere commitment when disciplined by the Lord. But he continued in compromise with Assyria and Egypt. Here is his repentance for this also, and the consequent remarkable blessing, with application to our compromises today. Related Resources: Seeds of the Reformation & Great Advances Sown … Continued
Christ’s Church in Isaiah
Over three chapters there are several major prophecies about Christ’s coming church covering firstly her doctrinal foundation (eg: Christ the hiding place – justification), then her conversion characteristic, then her worship priority, then her laws, and finally her pilgrim ethos. Here are details and applications. Related Resources Challenges Facing the Churches ‘One of themselves, even … Continued
The Sufferings of Christ
The Conversion of David
Israel’s greatest king – David – was also a remarkable teacher, prophet and psalmist. But it was as a youth that he found a personal relationship with the living God, and this psalm recalls the experience that changed his life and took him from shepherding to ruling. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: King David’s … Continued
Conditions for Blessing
The Lord’s chief complaint against Judah is their following human schemes not His Word. Here are applications to us today, both as churches, and as individuals in lockdown, along with the predicted blessings (and other conditions) that will come to the faithful. Related Resources Church-Age Blessings Foretold ‘Then I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, … Continued
Acts of God
A prophecy about the fall of Samaria and later the Babylonian invasion of Judah tells us much about God’s method and purpose when He allows HIV, MERS, SARS, earthquakes, floods, fires, and now worldwide plague. Here also is God’s promise of personal salvation. Related Resources Doubts About God’s Providence Providence – God’s fore-provision for all … Continued
The Mother of All Promises
You May Be Also Interested in… Book: The PromiseSermon: God Keeps His Promises And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: … Continued
Devotional Counsels
In the light of end-time events here are the themes on which to reflect for assurance, inner peace, trust, spiritual stability, and a view of the sovereign work of God. Here also are features of human nature that influence many situations. Related Resources Books – Devotional/Bible study Buy Now The Mutual Love of Christ and … Continued
A Stethoscope For The Soul
“Why be thankful to God?” we may ask. We grasp at attempts to explain away the evidence of design in our universe, and we do so, according to scripture, because of human pride. Here are the psalmist’s steps for paying homage to God and finding Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Who Cares for … Continued
The End of Time
In just one chapter of striking symbols lies the most remarkable vision of the final judgement, the setting apart of the redeemed, the end of all antagonism and the judgement of demons. It is followed by the rhapsodic praise of Zion’s eternal inhabitants. Related Resources Resurrection at the End of Time Paul presents the resurrection … Continued
The Valley of Vision
A community so privileged with the Temple and the prophets, and so devout in worship, are to be disciplined for the failure of real dedication to the Lord – the prevailing feature of so much evangelicalism today. Here is Isaiah’s challenging analysis and application. Related Resources The Momentous Vision Daniel’s vision of four beasts extends … Continued
The Lessons of Babylon
Long before the rise of Babylon Isaiah foretells her character and fall. She aspired to be as Lucifer, and how she reflects Satan her ultimate master, and also Antichrist of the last times. Literal Babylon fell, and so will the culture of the world that she symbolises. Related Resources The Fall of Babylon Sensational chronicles … Continued
God Purges His People
The ten northern tribes receive a last warning, then their fall (722BC) is predicted. As for Judah, she will also be punished by Assyria but with the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem, the surviving remnant of the discipline. Here are lessons for spiritual service in our day. Related Resource Christ Purges His Temple The Lord’s purity … Continued
The Testing of Faith
The prophet Isaiah confronts Ahaz, king of Judah, over his pending appeal to Assyria for military aid. The king refuses a sign-miracle, and the coming of Messiah by virgin birth is announced. Here objections are answered and lessons drawn for present day believers. Related Resources The Shield of Faith Why is faith described as a … Continued
The First Lesson for Service
Isaiah places his message first, coming to his own call in chapter six. The overwhelming holiness of the Lord, seen by vision, crushes him, leading to forgiveness and commissioning, and here are the lessons for soul winning and warning so often left unapplied today. Related Resources Christ’s Conditions of Service The Lord calls His disciples … Continued
Six Features of Mankind
Over 2700 years ago the prophet’s vision describes the full scale of human nature and man’s fallen behaviour in six remarkably concise yet profound categories. There is nothing so penetrating even in the New Testament as the astonishing scenario of the vineyard parable and the six woes. Related Resource The Dividing of Mankind Here is … Continued
Church Age Predictions
Isaiah predicts Judah’s future troubles through invasion and captivity of all the leading men, showing the reasons for judgement, especially the vaunting of man. Here is the application to the church today, and here also is a magnificent detailed prophecy of the New Testament age. Related Resource Church Age Predictions Isaiah predicts Judah’s future troubles … Continued
Isaiah’s Prophecy of Christ’s Coming
Proceeding in the manner of an unfolding mystery tale, the prophet begins on the remote, rural start, and step by step, reveals the astounding coming of the Son of Man and Son of God, rising to the magnifying of His saving power and love.
Light and Life in Christ
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your Life, Walking In and For LightHymn: The Lord my Saviour is my light (Psalm 27) For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. … Continued
Christ and the Church Foretold
Isaiah’s first prophecy of Christ and His Kingdom; its characteristics, conversions and blessings; culminating in the prophet’s inspired appeal – as from the heart of God – for people to learn the way of salvation and walk in this light to the Heavenly city. Full chapter _____________ Isaiah 2 The word that Isaiah the son … Continued
Introducing the Evangelical Prophet
Isaiah introduces his prophecies with vivid descriptions of the desperate plight of Judah – yet she was in great prosperity. But he speaks in earthly terms of her spiritual state, listing failings mirrored in our churches today. Here are the Lord’s warnings and remedies.
Who Cares For Your Soul?
David, pursued by 3000 military men of Saul, has taken refuge in a mountain cave. Bereft of all help, he turns to God, and is delivered. Here he recalls his sense of helplessness in order to illustrate the realisation of spiritual isolation and loss that usually precedes conversion to God.
Rend Your Heart
Joe 2:13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How God Turns HeartsAddresses: Philippians – Exalting Christ and Filling Christian Hearts And the … Continued
Our Debt to God
In an atheistic age people do not think about owing anything to God. But our lives, gifts, powers and bodily provisions are all from Him, and we surely owe Him thanks and obedience. How will we stand before our Maker at the end of our journey?
Are There Conditions for Revival?
This second message on spiritual awakening reviews the errors of Israel described by the prophet that must be repented of for a special visitation of the Spirit, and here are the obvious parallels with the general state of evangelicalism in our age. Revival includes reform.
The Bible and Revival
Unmistakable signs of revival in the Old Testament; the term in the Psalms (‘revival/awakening’); and a sweeping tour of British revivals. Finally, ten prominent characteristics of true revival, and the example of Hezekiah’s revival and its parallels with historic Western awakenings.
God’s Feelings For Us
The feelings of God disclosed by the prophet for all who live and die without knowing Him and His forgiveness, wasting the treasures of life, and going into a lost eternity. Here is the call of God to come to Him for new life.
The Phases of a Fall
The two parts of Samson’s life, the time of integrity, power and blessing, and the time of his fall and punishment. Why the upright part is essential to the pastoral message of the passage. Also, the fall, its components and its deep lessons for us.
The Phenomenon of Samson
The low view of inspiration that has invaded modern evangelical commentaries and most Study Bibles is never more evident than in their character assassination of Samson. Here is the Bible’s own view; here is the vindication of Samson as a Hebrews 11 hero of faith.
The Unseen Battle of Life
A very remarkable presentation of the way to find God in which the psalmist uses ten illustrations in just five verses, to show (1) the human predicament – cut off from God; (2) the remedy – what God has done; (3) our response; and (4) the result.
God’s Thoughts and Ours
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Our Thoughts Compared with God’s Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and … Continued
Who Are You Listening To?
Full chapter _____________ Isaiah 51 Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the LORD: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged. Look unto Abraham your father, and unto Sarah that bare you: for I called him alone, and blessed … Continued
The Pardoning God
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Abundant Pardon for Seekers Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he … Continued
Disappointments
‘And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Beth-lehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.’ Full chapter _____________ 1 Samuel 16 And the … Continued
Simple Spiritual Pre-requisites
Full chapter _____________ Deuteronomy 10 At that time the LORD said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first, and come up unto me into the mount, and make thee an ark of wood. And I will write on the tables the words that were in the first tables which thou … Continued
Keeping a Vow to God
Jephthah, a rare godly man in apostate Israel, is called from exile to defend the typical church. He makes a pious but rash vow and honours it with an obedience matched by his daughter. Not a human sacrifice, of course, but a challenge of commitment.
Resisting the Flesh
The non-cooperation of Succoth, the snare of Gideon’s ephod, the fable of Jotham, and the reign of Abimelech the bramble provide lessons on the antagonism of the flesh to spiritual progress, and its longing for human rule, rather than that of the Lord.
Surprising Aspects of Spiritual Warfare
Gideon’s expulsion of the Midianites is an example of a literal event superintended by God to provide an overview of spiritual mission. Here are three disqualifications for instrumentality plus an insight into God’s work in minds, and how harmony in the ‘church’ was preserved.
Turning Desolation Into Blessing
Midianite oppression drives Israel to prayer – and rebuke! Conviction must precede restoration. Gideon by faith seeks divine authority for action. The altar of compromise is destroyed, and further authority sought for war (the fleece). Here are rich lessons, lost if Gideon is thought faithless.
The Battle of Kishon
While the Study Bibles mostly see Barak as a coward, Hebrews 11 shows him to be a hero of faith and achievements. Here is the narrative in this light, with numerous lessons for today including the reasons why several tribes failed to rally to the cause.
God Describes Human Need
Appealing to individuals to seek the Lord, Jeremiah uses powerful illustrations to show how we are seen by God. He speaks of the inevitable things in life, of our vulnerability to unbelief, of things that distract us from God, and of how we may find Him.
Heroes of Old
The Judges seen through the lens of Hebrews 11 as men of clear faith, not defective men of their time as many erroneously teach today. Here are lessons for us from the Mesopotamian and Moabite oppressions and from the lives of Othniel and Ehud.
The Church Age Prophesied
A chapter teeming with detailed prophecy of Christ’s person and work together with the characteristics of the Gospel Age and the uniting of saved Jews and Gentiles in the church. Here it is also proved that Messiah will be a divine person and not the nation.
When the Saved Need the Saviour
The famous appendix of Judges, speaking of events after Joshua and the elders. Micah and the Danites – a record of astounding syncretism from so-blessed a people, yielding lessons on how we as sincere people may fall into ‘double-mindedness’, first barely consciously, then fully.
The Priority of Thanksgiving
An incomparable psalm for understanding the riches of thankfulness. Here are unexpected seams of thought from God’s acts of creation, deliverance, guidance and provision. Here also is how the psalmist anticipates conversion and the Christian life, and shows the spiritual benefits of thankfulness.
Receiving the Spirit
Before Elisha’s special enduement of the Spirit came three tests of loyalty, followed by a vital question. What will we ask of the Lord? What will a new preacher ask? Here is the meaning of the parting of Jordan, a chariot of fire, and the whirlwind ascension.
Questions For Life
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:1-2) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the … Continued
Joshua’s Sixteen Resolutions
After twenty years of historical silence, Joshua’s last convocation of Israel is recorded, with his remarkable speech presenting sixteen distinctive exhortations or ‘resolutions’ for the lives of God’s children. There is nothing quite so searching and comprehensive in all the Bible.
Spiritual Distractions
Israel’s tribes failed to clear residual Canaanite occupation, diluting their commission – the lessons. Joshua implements cities of refuge – here is how we know they have significance for the Christian life. Here also is the first piece of ‘theatre’ in the ancient church, and its folly.
Experiencing God First Hand
King David’s burden is to convey the very real experience he had of association with God. He spells out the tangible changes in his life through conversion, the evidences and scale of God’s interventions and helps, then the terms on which one must approach Him.
Christian Righteousness
The Saviour’s prayer – ‘Sanctify them through thy truth’ has led to a review of the Ten Commandments, this study surveying the scope of the last three – ‘Thou shalt not steal…bear false witness….covet’ – and especially how these guide believers in the life of the church.
Searching Sanctifying Laws
Continuing John 17:17, ‘Sanctify them through thy truth’, we here review the fifth to the seventh commandments to see the wide application given by Moses and the New Testament, each commandment naming the chief sin of a ‘family’ of offences. This is the path of holiness.
Learning from the Conquest
We learn the need of limited methods in the Lord’s work, how to identify ‘Hazors’ or pivotal issues in the defence of faith, the necessity of total obedience to God’s plan, and the certain fall of Anakim giants that triggered Israel’s unbelief and disobedience.
Miracles of Conquest
Joshua’s defence of the Gibeonites teems with spiritual lessons that still apply and bless God’s people. Among them are once-only miracles that establish Joshua and his principles and crushed pagan deification of sun and moon. Here is Joshua’s promoting of faith.
God’s Thinking Compared with Ours
Isaiah’s sublime poetry exhorts the superiority of God’s thoughts and plans – so benevolent, magnificent and certain. Here is what God thinks of us, and what He is ready to do for us, if we listen to Him and turn to Him for a new life.
Possessing the Land
Biblical proofs that Joshua’s conquest was a moral action of divine judgement that included an offer of peace to pagan cities (refused by all except the Gibeonites) if yielding to the moral standards displayed at Ebal. The Gibeonites in a positive light – illustrating evangelical repentance.
Why We Shy Away From God
Suggested by the teaching of Jeremiah, here are the reasons why people are inclined to turn away from God, and to block out thoughts of His help and of eternity. Here also is a summary of all that is lost, and how to find Him.
The Valley of Trouble
Achan sins and all Israel must suffer – why? Is it just? The question answered. The nature of ‘the accursed thing’ and its equivalent today. Here is ‘spiritual desertion’ as they knew it (and how it may strike believing churches), Achan’s obduracy, and the nation’s restoration.
Steps to Instrumentality
Four steps are emphasised in Joshua 4-6: first, the cherishing of God’s works (the Jordan memorial), second, not hindering the work (by prolonging the reproach of Egypt), third, clinging to one’s sense of God (the theophany), and fourth, keeping faith as paramount (the strange siege).
Spiritual Lessons from Jordan’s Crossing
First, tests of faith exemplified; second, the fourfold significance of the ark for us today; third, the necessity of reverence; fourth, the preaching of God’s Word central in every church event; fifth, all glory to be assigned to God, not leaders.
When God’s Favour is Imparted
The remarkable high priestly blessing given by God to be pronounced in Old Testament times lists the elements of spiritual life and experience given freely by God to all who sincerely seek and trust Him. Here is the substance of a true meeting with God.
Conditions of Faith
The well-known sending of the two spies contrasts with the twelve sent forty years before, who offended the Lord by presuming to choose the route of conquest. We learn the necessity of honouring God’s prerogatives — prescribed directions for the Christian life and church.
The Role of Faith in Spiritual Work
The literal history of Joshua, showing the pastoral parallels for our spiritual lives today in chapter 1. Here is Joshua’s momentous call, the certain promise of instrumentality, the effort needed, the necessity of a focus for faith, and other principles often neglected yet so vital today.
Finding the Truth of Life
“Buy the truth” urges Solomon – a search for the explanation and meaning of life, and a relationship with the Lord. Don’t sell it, as many do, for a godless life. Here is how the heart is given to God, and how eyes are opened.
Ruling One’s Spirit
A sequence of verses showing how to steer oneself toward consideration of others, use ‘unbreachable barriers’ to avoid sin, maintain diligence in all things, avoid giving superficial counsel, register and convey disapproval of wrong, and treasure family devotion and the means of grace.
The Fall of Man
The ‘depraved’ human condition was acknowledged for centuries past because it is so obviously true. Here Isaiah shows human unreasonableness before God, alienation, rebellion, and inability to change. Here also is the way to find God’s forgiveness and life-changing power.
Applying Truth to Life
This group of verses unfolds five ‘companions’ of biblical truth as we search and apply it to life. Fascinating illustrations press home lessons on the need of: diligence, purity (in doctrine and methods), reality (especially the call to service), humility, and diplomacy (or sensitivity).
The Urgency of Spiritual Life
It is astounding how many illustrations and arguments the prophet Jeremiah uses to persuade people in 586 BC to turn back to God. Yet today his reasoning is just as vital, as he stirs us to see our need of spiritual life.
Four Aspects of Wisdom
Through four striking illustrations Solomon considers spiritual ‘skills’: a noble building showing the three stages of spiritual life, warfare showing strategies for resisting Satan, the uninitiated builder or soldier showing hopeless consequences, and the need for constant exercise of spiritual skills.
The Astonishing Mercy of God
As far as human beings are concerned, the multitude of God’s tender mercies are the towering wonder of His divine attributes. Here are His mercies of salvation, their benefits, the great cost to God of their implementation, and the happiness of receiving them.
The Subtlety of Sin
Starting with a brief comment on the ‘rod’ in Proverbs, and what it does not mean, here is a remarkable 20-verse topic showing how Satan first makes sin desirable, promotes it through bad company, weakens thirst for regular teaching, then tightens sin’s grip on us.
The Control of Desire
– earthly and personal desires that is. Beginning with the need to curb determination to have one’s way, Solomon deals with anger, longings in general, and the ‘evil eye’ of coveting. He powerfully emphasises the need to observe God’s sacred boundaries in life.
The Gold Standard of Integrity
The first proverb in this group announces the theme – the believer’s reputation for shining integrity (and its works), showing that it encompasses a true view of self (humility), principled living, keeping personal spiritual independence, and other precious elements. With examples of typical failure.
Constant Processes of Sanctification
Here are eight consecutive graphic proverbs presenting distinctive aspects of sanctification: the need for a plan, the special guarding of appetites and words, fleeing pride, fearing indolence, being outgoing, keeping utmost sincerity in worship, applying Truth, and being ever-correctable. These powerful helps explored.
Spiritual Self-Harm
Bandits raiding the trade routes of the biblical world paid a price in wounds and death at the hands of militia. Solomon applies their lifestyle to the spiritual cost of disdaining the Lord. Here are the blessings lost by neglect, or gained by coming to Christ.
The Chasm Between Lost and Found
Twelve verses track the fallen state of mankind, revealing strikingly different and often surprising aspects of our lost condition. It stirs our sympathy, prayers and witness, and, of course, our gratitude for salvation. We see also the vast differences between being lost or saved.
Practical Religion
Full chapter _____________ Psalms 100-101 Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of … Continued
Wisdom for Life – Deceptive Influences
Here are six influences to be resisted: things that intoxicate (not only alcohol), peace and acceptance, the love of strife, the love of comfort and convenience, untested dreams and plans, and inner self-justification. Here also are the biblical ways of defeating them.
Explaining Human Nature
Despite the intellectual brilliance of the human race, we are capable of great foolishness in our dismissal of God, as King David points out. Here are the reasons why we suppose that God keeps no account of our lives, and all that we lose by this thinking.
Abraham’s Faith in Christ
Full chapter _____________ Genesis 15 After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer … Continued
Joseph’s Brothers – the Agony of a Guilty Conscience
Full chapter _____________ Genesis 42 Now when Jacob saw that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob said unto his sons, Why do ye look one upon another? And he said, Behold, I have heard that there is corn in Egypt: get you down thither, and buy for us from thence; that we may live, and … Continued
Proverbs on Relationships
Our title identifies the theme running through this group of twelve proverbs (clearly so in eight of them). Here are twelve distinctive and vital counsels for Christian fellowship, all of them curing defects and enabling deeper ties of respect and love between the Lord’s people.
Wholehearted Submission to God
Remarkable and profound verses show the necessity of being wholly submitted to the Lord in all departments of the spiritual journey – including the direction of life, self-examination, advance in holiness, pride-abatement, and persecution. Almost every verse couples a human action with a divine response.
Praise In Heart and Life
‘Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 33 Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. Praise the LORD with harp: … Continued
Spiritual Equanimity
Profound verses tell how to keep a calm mental, emotional state with joy in the Lord (no matter what). Here are the duties of appreciation, joy and gratitude even alongside woes, the need for food for the soul, and for simplicity, love, and self-control.
The Human Experience
He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD. By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. (Psalm 33:5-6) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle … Continued
The Problem of The Heart
A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 36:26) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan … Continued
The Surprising Themes of Leviticus
A book of great complexity if approached only for a technical grasp of Mosaic worship, but of ongoing lively application and delight if searched for the spiritual purpose behind each of the ceremonies presented.
Identifying the Key Spiritual Pastoral Themes in a Psalm
A study of a selection of psalms to show how they minister to communion with God, and the securing of spiritual strength and perception in all conditions of life.
The Surprising Themes of Leviticus
A book of great complexity if approached only for a technical grasp of Mosaic worship, but of ongoing lively application and delight if searched for the spiritual purpose behind each of the ceremonies presented.
Six Victories of Creation
Six major features of the world that can be explained by the creative work of the God of Scripture, but that cannot be explained by evolution.
Abundant Pardon for Seekers
Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. (Isaiah 55:6-7) The … Continued
Forgetting the Purpose of Life
What do we lose by forgetting God and the soul, and building our lives without interest in these things? Society currently urges us into unbelief, but here is how God reasons with us about the purpose of existence and the way to eternal life.
Worth Serving The Lord
Full chapter _____________ Malachi 3 Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts. But who may abide the … Continued
A Steadfast Anchor For The Soul
The LORD also spake unto Joshua, saying, Speak to the children of Israel, saying, Appoint out for you cities of refuge, whereof I spake unto you by the hand of Moses: That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood. … Continued
The Last Days
Here is the climax of persecution of the church by Antichrist, cut short by the return of Christ. We look at the church militant, the future glory, and the significance of the symbolic time to the end, with the encouragements and lessons for the church.
The Purpose of Life
An acclaimed and magnificent jewel of poetic literature by Solomon shows that we are not free, but subject in all things to forces outside our control. Then, by a parable, he shows how conversion to God is the way to real freedom and purpose.
The Career of Antichrist
This astonishing chapter falls into three parts: first, detailed prophecy of events up to 175BC (all fulfilled and here summarised); then the tyranny of Antiochus toward Palestine; then the end-times acts of Antichrist, now being fulfilled before our eyes in church and state.
Life In A Look
Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be … Continued
Future Things Unfolded
How the prophet’s prayers, longing for knowledge, and self-abasement before God, are rewarded by the most detailed prophecy of future events in the Bible. Here also is insight into the unseen spiritual warfare involving a principal demon and the victorious Saviour.
A Battle of Desires
A final appeal of Moses to men and women about their need of God, which describes the human struggle for independence from Him – and the cost. Moses sets out the things that God bestows now and eternally, and pleads to us all to consider.
Daniel’s Mysterious Seventy Weeks
Here is Daniel’s prayer for the restoration of Jerusalem, and the vision of seventy ‘sevens’ and how, by the traditional evangelical view, the prophet’s eyes are lifted to Calvary and Christ’s six accomplishments there.
Behold Your God!
Our society today knows so little about almighty God, having wilfully shut Him out of all consideration. But look, says the Bible, at His attributes, ways and plans. Consider the uniqueness of God and compare His actions, plans and promises with those of human society.
The Sufferings of Christ
Satan’s Methods in the Last Days
Daniel’s vision of the Persian and the Greek empires, from which would come Antiochus Epiphanes, who would inflict seven years of woes upon Jerusalem, being a type and figure of the last-days antichrist, providing a picture of his last offensive against the faith.
The Momentous Vision
Daniel’s vision of four beasts extends the prophet’s picture of the four empires, Babylon, Persia, Greece and Rome, that would precede the coming of Christ, with emphasis on the ‘little horn’, antichrist, that would devour the earth and attack the church until Christ’s return.
Surprising Facts about Salvation
One of the greatest problems of mankind is an upside-down estimation of good and bad, desirable and undesirable, here challenged by King Solomon pleading for a spiritual view of life, without which we will never seek or find God. Here are his ‘shock’ arguments.
Accomplishments through Faith
Persecution of the seed of the woman by that of the serpent flares up when subordinates of Darius plot Daniel’s death, but his faith and deliverance lead to religious freedom for Jews, attestation for the prophet, worldwide testimony, and a challenge for us.
When Babylon Fell
Seventy years earlier, Nebuchadnezzar was indifferent to the true God. Later, God punished his pride (and stopped the genocide of the faithful). Belshazzar now adds insolent derision, always the last stage before judgement, and spurns repentance. Here is the ‘true story’ of that last night.
Wisdom or Folly?
Who is truly wise and understanding? – asks King Solomon. ‘The Preacher’ answering the question in a series of unusual and striking illustrations, showing the necessity of finding the eternal purpose of earthly life, and coming to know and walk with God.
Reasoning with God
Isaiah portrays God as issuing a call to us to reason or argue with Him about His terms for a relationship. What are our grounds for keeping away from Him? What would He say about this, and how would He deal with us?
The Madness of King Nebuchadnezzar
The purpose of God in the humbling (though not the conversion) of a seemingly invincible emperor shortly before his death and then the fall of the empire. Daniel is assured of God’s sovereignty overall, and we glean promises for the present turmoil.
The Essential Miracle
Nebuchadnezzar’s ‘image’ was Satan’s scheme to achieve submission to paganism or execution of all Jews at court, and through the empire, eliminating any remnant of faithful Israel and the plan of redemption. A miracle averted all with minimal deaths. Here are mighty spiritual encouragements.
The Hand of God in Life
In the mighty Babylonian empire human power seemed to have extinguished the people of God and the Messianic promise. Then God revealed the coming sequence and end of world empires and the day of Christ. Here is the startling rise of Daniel, prophet and guardian.
The Great Test of Faith
An extremely long life of remarkable instrumentality in the preservation of God’s people along with unique prophetic insights began with a pivotal and risk-laden test. Here is the proving of Daniel and other young Israelites by which they denied the world and obeyed God.
Serious Devotion
An overview of surprising themes in Leviticus, including the need for feelingfulness, identifying sins of ignorance and strange fire today, Christian distinctiveness, and the ongoing message of the feasts and the jubilee. Also, the ‘appendix’ – the rules for vows, then and now.
Promises and Warnings to the Church
Moses gives the gracious key to how God would deal with Israel by physical, earthly, public benefits or disciplines according to their general national behaviour. Here also by way of application are the equivalent spiritual benefits and disciplines for Gospel age believers.
The Incomparable Mercy of God
The well-known extraordinary conversion of Manasseh, Judah’s most evil king, provides a picture of how God draws people to Himself, imbuing them with a deep realisation of their need, so that they give Him their lives to be entirely changed.
The Pinnacle of Faith and Grace
The purpose of the Land Sabbath — far beyond the resting of the land — its moral benefits and spiritual lessons; then the remarkable Jubilee law with its spiritual and prophetic purpose. Was a Jubilee ever held? The true Jubilee in Isaiah, fulfilled in Christ and His Church.
The Discovery of God
The human plight of today is looking away from God and alienation from Him. Here is the gracious appeal of God that stirs us from unawareness to see our spiritual need, and to experience His reconciling kindness in conversion. Here is the call of God.
The Purpose of the Feasts
All seven major feasts of Moses are in this chapter. This overview explains the spiritual purpose of each, showing how they form a perfect agenda for the meditation of believers, as well as a preacher’s checklist of essential themes for the blessing of God’s people.
The Proof of Prayer
Millions pray to the one eternal, almighty God. Who may pray to Him, and how? On what basis may the Holy One be approached? What makes prayer acceptable or futile? What kind of request is heard, and what is the proof? Here are David’s answers.
Getting the Spiritual Sense
Rules for discerning the ongoing message for today in the ceremonies of the law, eg: the vital spiritual application (not digestive!) of the embargo on eating the offering after two days; the priests’ funeral restrictions, the giving of children to Molech, and especially spiritual sincerity.
Commands With a Meaning
First, how the annual Day of Atonement foretells the one sacrifice of Messiah; secondly, sexual conduct laws, including the abomination of same-sex relationships and their moral-law permanence; thirdly, the message of uncircumcised fruit – that no culture is neutral but all must be sanctified.
The Limitation of Life
– Especially if God is set aside. The limitation of idols listed in this Psalm apply to the idol of today – materialistic atheism. Lacking voice, vision and hearing it has no explanation of life’s purpose, no help and no power. The Gospel of Christ is the opposite.
Teaching the Holiness of God
Related Resources God’s Rules for Holiness Taken at face value the Ten Commandments are binding on all people, and will guard the way to Heaven, so that evil will never spoil its glory and purity. But the Commandments are far greater than their surface meaning, as this book shows. They challenge us as Christians on … Continued
King David’s View of Life
The 23rd psalm is the most famous of David’s poetic compositions, but people often do not realise it is the king’s brilliant summary of his view of life – of how he saw himself before his Creator – and how he came to find and know Him.
Legitimate Worship
Numerous times we are told that worship and priesthood were prescribed in detail by God, yet immediately and fatally Nadab and Abihu innovated. Why? Here are common answers, but Scripture mentions only that their novelty was not commanded by God, and here are lessons for churches today.
Searching the Heart
Lessons from the offerings for our devotional lives today, first for peace (thankfulness), second for sins of ‘ignorance’ (light untroubled sinning), third for guilt by association, fourth for ‘trespass’ (sins against God). How can we repent without knowing these categories of offence?
The Lepers’ Logic: Go and Tell
Full chapter _____________ 2 Kings 7 Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria. Then a lord on whose hand … Continued
True Repentance for Believers
The burnt offerings are past and over, eclipsed by Calvary, but by placing ourselves in the midst of the scene we may feel the impact of the symbolism and the nature of guilt. Here we learn much about how to think in times of repentance.
Living in a State of Fear
Full chapter _____________ Isaiah 8 Moreover the LORD said unto me, Take thee a great roll, and write in it with a man’s pen concerning Maher-shalal-hash-baz. And I took unto me faithful witnesses to record, Uriah the priest, and Zechariah the son of Jeberechiah. And I went unto the prophetess; and she conceived, and bare … Continued
The Prayers Of Nehemiah
‘And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven, And said, I beseech thee, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and … Continued
The Trial of Abraham’s Faith
Full chapter _____________ Genesis 22 And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him … Continued
A True-Hearted Faith
‘Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.’ Full chapter _____________ Isaiah 58 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they … Continued
Reformations in the Bible (1)
The Bible is a book of ‘reformations’ from beginning to end. One of the great cables or themes running through its narratives is the calling out of the world of the people of God, their (repeated) re-absorption over time by the wiles of the devil, and their victorious reclamations as a distinctive people. [School of Theology address]
The Value of Our Life
King David, a man of immense ability naturally, tells from experience of the journey from self-confidence and self-satisfaction to being humbled to see his vital need of God, and going on to seek and find a life-changing relationship with Him.
The Features of Vain Religion
Why should vague or false ideas about God so offend Him? Here are the marks of wrong religion, and how they differ massively from the faith of the Bible. Here also are the motives for false faith, and the benefits of the true.
Eternity in the Psalms
Contrary to what Bible critics ignorantly claim, the Old Testament is full of heaven and the eternal bliss of the redeemed. Here is a review of David’s psalms that overwhelmingly prove so, including an explanation of the few places that suggest (wrongly understood) the contrary.
How to Approach God
A prophet of 700BC shows the sympathetic heart of God and sets out the terms and the manner for approaching Him, providing the words and the promises that God will hear. Here are our greatest needs, and how God amazingly meets them, and the outcome in our lives.
The Dissolving of Doubts 6
This study refutes a new book attacking the credibility of the Bible (The Bible for Grown-Ups), denying all Bible history before 900BC and claiming endless errors along with the absence of any spiritual message or consistent morality in the OT period. (We hear of teachers indoctrinating classes with it.)
Seek the Lord and Live
For thus saith the LORD unto the house of Israel, Seek ye me, and ye shall live: But seek not Beth-el, nor enter into Gilgal, and pass not to Beer-sheba: for Gilgal shall surely go into captivity, and Beth-el shall come to nought. Seek the LORD, and ye shall live; lest he break out like … Continued
All God’s Supremacy in One Psalm
King David’s last words combine a history of time with a ‘world view’ from God’s perspective. Here is the solution to the greatest problem of mankind – moral disorder and alienation from God – and how Christ saves countless souls out of every age of time.
The Soul’s Interview with God
Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: and because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God, O Israel. (Amos 4:12) 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 … Continued
The Dissolving of Doubts
— or the Hebrew original: the untangling of knots. A survey of doubts, firstly Genesis 3 and their satanic origin, then Peter’s doubting of Matthew 14, then praying without doubt (other texts), backsliding doubts, and different forms of doubt and how to confront them (Ephesians 6).
Outside or Inside the Kingdom?
So often people seem to have no inclination whatsoever to know about God, or what His plans may be. Here is why this is, and how much we miss, if this is our case, and what lies ahead if we do not find Him.
David Sees Messiah’s Reign
Probably David’s last and most uplifting psalm containing standards for his successors but chiefly soaring into messianic prophecy. Here is spelled out the character, extent and fruits of Christ’s reign using vivid pictures exclusively fulfilled by the One ‘who only doeth wondrous things’.
A Mighty Hand To Save Sinners
And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him. For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and … Continued
David Teaches Greater Communion
Fleeing Saul in the wilderness of Ziph David’s quest for communion is rewarded, this psalm revealing his steps under four discernible headings: 1. his longing for it (the means), 2. his commitment to praise (including the feast analogy), 3. his dependence, 4. the element of anticipation.
David on the Terms of Blessing
Composed when David was at the height of his power, this looks back at Saul’s disastrous reign and its cause to help people value their present blessings. To us, it says inversely – reviving past evangelical blessings means abandoning new methodology and trusting the Word alone.
David Takes Details to God
David takes his terrifying predicament to the Lord, but not before affirming his trust in God’s promises and power – a vital antidote to making self-pitying complaints rather than offering believing prayers. Here are the lessons of his great example in the conquest of fear or discontent.
David’s Hold on Spiritual Happiness
This hymn with a refrain that recurs 11 times addresses a series of exhortations to believers, accompanied by strong divine promises, especially to see all of life in the light of eternity. Containing the famous four words – Trust, Delight, Commit, Rest, it constitutes a rich devotional feast.
David’s Driving Aim in Life
David’s prayer in deep waters, but his chief concern is God’s glory and the perpetuation of his witness. Here also are the answers to the seven questions we may ask in personal Bible study – Is there a doctrine here, a duty, a reproof, a promise? etc.
When God Intervenes
The authentic call of God when a ‘voice from behind us’ breaks through the turmoil of life summoning us to consider our Maker. The call is about reconciliation with God, about forgiveness and how Christ has secured it, about receiving new life. Will we respond to Him?
David Teaches Spiritual Dependence
Dependence is a central duty of the Christian life and vital to the blessing of churches. Here is the nature of dependent prayer in troubles, the avoiding of worldly solutions, the forms in which God gives strength, and some of the mistakes of today.
David on Felt Union with God
Although hostility and war threaten the king, the running theme of this psalm is close communion with the Lord, his first and chief source of relief and perspective. Here we trace how the king went about it, his experience and its fruits.
David’s Components of Dedication
Carefully structured, this great prayer provides a profound study of dedication, yet it also works as a quick checklist of the vital elements, such as one might keep in the back of one’s Bible. Here are David’s six ‘departments’ for regular recommitment.
David’s Prayer for Guidance
First it is shown that the main theme of this prayer – paths and ways – is about the course of life and its major decisions and crises. Then we see several prerequisites or conditions for discerning the Lord’s guidance, all equally prayed for by the king.
Meeting God in This Life
The greatest tragedy of modern life is that so many people are deprived of any knowledge of a real relationship with God. Here is one of the first accounts in the Bible of how we may come to experience and know Him. This is Jacob’s great discovery.
David Prays in Troubles
Just what we need for the day of intense trial, temptation, persecution, loss, illness or turmoil. Here is God’s promise for prayer, the conditions for being heard, the part we must play, the duty of appreciation, the effect on assurance and avoiding fleshly solutions.
King David’s Route to Assurance
An insight into a most helpful approach to assurance, not here by reviewing our experience (legitimate as that is) but by reflecting (1) on God’s attributes in creation (2) on the distinctive qualities of the Word, and (3) by avoidance of certain kinds of sin.
Attitudes to God
Many wonder how any person could love God. Is not love an affection we have for people, or beauty or a cause? Here is an insight into how countless people, great and small, have stumbled into an experience of great love of God.
David in Desperate Straits
David in despair and hounded by Saul controls his feelings and (1) articulates his needs in prayer (2) affirming that God knows what He will do (3) that he has a higher, better life (4) that God alone can help and (5) yielding his life afresh.
David Prays for Sanctification
A truly extraordinary psalm with numerous illuminating metaphors. Here we see 13 of them under the headings (1) the place of prayer (2) the priority of guarding lips and heart (3) the heeding of correction (4) coping with the world’s contempt (5) Satan’s snares.
David on Spiritual Relationships
Extraordinary psalms – here the riches of fellowship are unfolded: first the ideal; secondly, the fragrance or pleasantness of Christian warmth; thirdly, its power and productiveness; fourthly, its eternal character. In these exquisitely structured verses two feelingful illustrations speak to our hearts.
David’s Motto-Psalm for Trust
A king’s devotions – these three memorable verses enable believers to maintain humility, dependence and trust in all circumstances. Firstly, a regular confession, secondly, the deportment or stance to be worked at, thirdly, the patience and waiting factor. All these sustained a great ruler’s trust.
Faith’s Higher Reasoning
Rahab of Jericho typifies the journey vast numbers take from materialism to faith. A harlot – hostess began to reason, here is how, and came to meet with God. From her experience, here is the way to approach God for forgiveness and new life.
Do We Have A Policy?
‘For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.’ Full chapter _____________ Ezra 7 Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah, … Continued
David on the Spiritual Warfare
Most modern ‘study Bibles’ limit Psalms 123-6 to the release from Babylonian captivity. But older works are right to relate them to all Zion’s trials, including spiritual opposition. Never underestimate, says David, the war against the saints, its periodical peaks, and remarkable deliverances.
The Blessings of Reflection
Unique Psalms – David reflecting on the church, especially Messiah’s, using the picture of the Temple. Here are the riches and benefits of God’s provision of gatherings of his people. We too should reflect on the meaning of its structure, purposes, ‘walls’, ‘palaces’, and peace.
What Lies Ahead in our Lives?
What kind of hopes and desires is it legitimate to pray for? Are there terms for answered prayer? Here are lessons from David’s words – ‘Who can tell whether God will be gracious to me?’ Also – the astonishing affection of God for each believer.
Salvation at the Dawn of History
From the beginning to the end of the Bible, the way of finding Almighty God never changes. Remarkably, the life of Cain so long ago shows the same bitter resistance to God that we maintain until the day we turn to Him for free forgiveness.
David’s Prayer of Faith
A unique model prayer rich in counsel, including problems in prayer. Four evident sections cover (1) The petitioner’s humble approach, (2) God’s approachability and readiness to respond, (3) The petitioner’s promise to God (a vital part of prayer), (4) The core petition itself, including the token for good.
Things That Come Only From God
A soul-searching psalm that presents all the things in life provided exclusively by God, together with things we cannot possess or experience unless we apply to Jesus Christ the Saviour for forgiveness and eternal life. Then only do substantial and eternal things become ours. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for … Continued
The Victorious March of God
Unique psalms: here is the whole scene of redemptive warfare, lifting us above setbacks and discouragements. Here too is prophecy – the ascension of Christ and the New Testament age, with the harvest of the Gentiles and coming judgement, and with surprising assurances along the way.
David’s Inventory of Benefits
Unique psalms: here David shows us how to summon ourselves to praise. The main subjects are God’s forgiveness of, and compassionate acts toward, His people, both flowing from His character, and infinitely exceeding our guilt and inadequacy. The pinnacle of praise then lifts to Heaven.
King David’s Resolutions
A unique and challenging psalm: David’s ten vows for his reign, all to do with his moral rules for personal life and for his administration. Here is – (1) his dedication; (2) his plea for evident divine involvement; (3) his defence of the cause in the spiritual warfare.
Taking the Name of the Lord
‘These be the words which Moses spake unto all Israel on this side Jordan in the wilderness, in the plain over against the Red sea, between Paran, and Tophel, and Laban, and Hazeroth, and Dizahab.’ Full chapter _____________ Deuteronomy 1 These be the words which Moses spake unto all Israel on this side Jordan in … Continued
The Character of Nehemiah
Full chapter _____________ Nehemiah 1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. And it came to pass in the month Chisleu, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the palace, That Hanani, one of my brethren, came, he and certain men of Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews that had … Continued
Praise For Lasting Glory
‘Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 104 Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. Who coverest thyself with light as with a … Continued
Joshua’s Strength & Courage
‘Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even … Continued
Freedom from Life’s Burdens
Isaiah shows God’s case in His dispute with mankind, and the limitations and bondage of life without Him (seen in the prophet’s famous ‘cart-rope’ illustration). Here is all that God has done for mankind, and His power and kindness in receiving individual seekers.
Why We Are Alienated From God
Like someone in denial about an illness, we somehow shut out all thoughts of our relationship with God and of eternity. We cannot see why God would reject us. The Bible tells us how much we need to find Him, and how He has made it possible.
Our Substitutes for God
It has been said that atheists have more ‘gods’ than anyone, but all have more than they realise. Here is what they are, why we cling to them, and what they do to us. Only conversion to the true God releases us from them and their service.
Everyone’s Inner Battle
The actions of a king in choosing earthly counsels in times of trouble, rather than God’s solution, amazingly mirrors the actions of most of us as we fashion our policy for life. Here are our reactions to life’s troubles, and the earthly or heavenly options before us.
Gaining or Losing the Soul
The most brilliant of men and women may be altogether disconnected when it comes to spiritual awareness or concern. Here are Solomon’s jolting miniature parables designed to draw us from indifference to God and the soul, and bring us to know Christ the Lord.
When God Calls
The call of God to the young Samuel provides an insight into how a person’s heart is first engaged and then drawn to spiritual conversion and life. For so many, is the story of alienation and resistance giving way to discovery of and reconciliation with God.
Precious Marriage Texts
Marriage at the beginning established for all time; man’s headship in the light of the equality of men and women before God; marriage as a covenant; the nobility of the unmarried; the way of courtship; a husband’s duties and the divine promise of 1 Peter 3.7.
Explaining Ezekiel’s River of Life
Ezekiel has lamented the failure of separation from the world, and now the river symbolises the church’s positive work in the world. Here is the meaning of its secret source and miraculous expansion, with our soul-winning priority, and the incidental yet mighty social benefits in times when there is great acceptance and blessing of souls.
Ezekiel’s City and Its Meaning
Is this great city/temple vision to be fulfilled literally or does it portray Christ’s Church? Here are the reasons why historic interpreters were all sure it pointed to the Church, and how this view reveals the many vital pastoral applications for today.
A Prophetic Parable Explains our Times
An obvious parable (as Ezekiel shows by building in major pointers) about the coming of Christ and the church age, telling us about the constant hostility of the world against the church, how God will restrict it, and its end times crescendo when Christ returns.
The Unfolding Prophecy of Tyre
Among nations to be judged for hostility to God’s people, Tyre was unique, and subject to uniquely phased judgement. Here is how she parallels anti-Christian thought today, and the perspective we gain from this (already partially fulfilled) prophecy.
The Nature and Scope of Love
The phenomenon of human love, what drives it, its strengths and limits and why rationalists cannot explain it. The superiority of Divine love, the mystery of why it is not wanted, the consequences of missing it, and how it may be experienced and proved.
Shopping for the Truth
While God’s forgiveness and spiritual life are free, the questions asked by buyers of large acquisitions may be asked when seeking a religion. Who made it? Does it have a Saviour? Does it work? Will it last? How will I be affected? What are the alternatives? etc
Disabilities of the Soul
700 years before Christ, Isaiah describes the radical change that conversion brings about, using pictures of sight to the blind, agility to the crippled, and rivers streaming into the desert. Here is how the phenomenon of new life enters heart and soul when we come to Christ.
Christ’s Plan For His Churches
The psalmist predicts the destruction of Zion and its restoration after exile; also its spiritual revival in the Christian age. Here is Christ’s blueprint for individual churches (rather than denominations, societies and private ministries), their superior qualities, their end-time oppression, and final triumph.
Live While You Can
‘Remember thy Creator’, said the billionaire king whose attempts to make atheism and self-indulgence work all failed him. Here is his counsel to learn about God and grace while there is time for this to transform us and fill our lives here, and prepare us for eternity.
The Vital Duty of Private Judgement
Despite training, Israelites were ignorant of doctrine, choosing uninspired nonsense over the Word. They thought Exodus taught that parental sin was punished in children. Ezekiel denies it, unless children choose to sin. A call to personal knowledge of doctrine and conduct – so rare today.
God’s Agenda for Church Success
From the parables of the vine and of two great eagles the greatest faults of the ‘typical’ church (repeated today) were pride and idolatry. Ezekiel shows that humility, simplicity and faithfulness are essential for true blessing. We see how worldliness is the equivalent of idolatry.
Our Two Greatest Mistakes
God’s message through the ‘reasoning prophet’ was that society in general makes two massively harmful decisions. One is to reject spiritual life from God, and the other is to live for short-lived material things alone. Here the gains and losses are compared.
God Teaches Ezekiel How to Preach
It is remarkable how the vision-messages given by God to Ezekiel are structured and divided to ideal sermonic form, as if they are inspired lessons in delivery. Here we see the Lord’s own subject, shape and divisions for several major ‘sermons’.