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’.
A new vision of the holiness of God fills the prophet with indignation at the insult to Him of apostasy. Commissioned a watchman to souls, a time of barren ministry creates dependence on the unction of the Spirit, while the siege enactment teaches his attitude.
First, proof that Ezekiel’s commission applies to all believers. Secondly, why he is constantly reminded of his human vulnerabilities. Thirdly, how the Spirit carries him and us over the opposition of the age. Fourthly, proclamational not missional (in the modern sense) methods are commanded.
The personal spiritual message of Ezekiel 1 – the call of a prophet certainly, but also the commission that should dawn dramatically on all believers, bringing a powerful sense of God, His glory and omniscience. How this brings fruitfulness, while its absence has ruined much evangelical witness.
David’s rhapsodic review of all the ways by which he knew the mighty hand of God in every condition of life. Both deeply searching and powerfully comforting, here are the details of the Lord’s love toward his own in action, and the gratitude we owe.
Isaiah the prophet long ago uttered the famous message to King Hezekiah of Judah, ‘set your house in order: for you shall die’. Here we view the five ‘departments’ of the soul and ask if they are fit for the great journey into eternity?
David shows praise is about the Lord and his work, and also about the believer’s many recurring deliverances throughout this life of countless needs. These blessings cannot be experienced without concern for holiness and reverence. Here are inspired counsels for both personal and congregational praise.
The Bible presents God using terms of massive significance such as omnipotent, omniscient, sovereign, holy, just, unchanging and merciful. He is personal and may be known and approached – but how? Here is the way made open by Christ the Lord that the Bible sets before us.
‘I am come into my garden, my sister, my spouse: I have gathered my myrrh with my spice; I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey; I have drunk my wine with my milk: eat, O friends; drink, yea, drink abundantly, O beloved.’ Full chapter _____________ Song of Solomon 5 I am come into my … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Psalm 50 The mighty God, even the LORD, hath spoken, and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof. Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined. Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it … Continued
Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him. (Psalm 2:12) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs of … Continued
Israel’s susceptibility to the Moabite strategy of penetration and corruption, and Satan’s use of this today. Moses retired, the type of Christ to be unblemished for entry into the land. The Reubenites and our tendency to settle down rather than fight the Christian warfare.
Why God used the phenomenon of an ass seeing the angel of the Lord and speaking. Balaam’s true visions, and how he grasped the vulnerability of Israel should she lose her distinctiveness. The outcome – ‘the doctrine of Balaam’ – found to this day among evangelicals.
Often called the apocalypse of the Old Testament, Zechariah’s prophecy is full of Christ, the church age, and end-times visions intended for the uplifting of the faithful.
Preparatory Devotional Address (Psalm 116): The spiritual responses and resolutions of a serving heart to the love of God.
From the meaning of the ‘serpent of brass’ to the lessons of Balaam’s contradictions. A true prophet, and false; sincere, yet insincere; powerless, yet unleashing against God’s people the most devastating and enduring Satanic strategy. Balaams surely ‘live’ today; the biblical record is for us.
The people craved a repentance-free, non-challenging religion, but God commands that His appointed worship be kept sacred. How His rules for ministry are disobeyed today. The profound message of the red heifer. Also the error of Moses that cost his entry into Canaan.
King Solomon long ago named the six main false ideas about the human race and its viability without the need of God. These are still the basis of confident unbelief, even though repeatedly proved mistaken. Here is how knowing Christ solves everything.
The Israelites did not accept that unbelief and disobedience should shut them out of Canaan, Korah and the people demanding both a new priesthood, and a no-repentance, non-sifting ministry. Here are the parallels for our time, and the lessons of the wanderings.
The disastrous decision at Kadesh when the people recoiled from entering the land, and the present day equivalent when churches and members recoil from serious effort to reach young and old alike in the battle for souls. Why has the serving culture almost disappeared?
Lessons begin to flow from this typical church, including: the cloudy pillar shows the way but they must watch for localised dangers. The daily prayer of Moses provides a profound plan for our petitions. Satan infuses gloom that quickly turns to lust – plus remedial thinking.
From the ‘strange fire’ judgement to the march from Sinai, we trace the preparation of the Israelites in (1) learning to preserve the presence of God; (2) maintaining purity, and (3) pursuing an ideal of true dedication. Here is a pattern for churches today.
The chief and distinctive purposes of Numbers seen through NT eyes, the Israelites being a type of the church. Here is the ‘working church’ concept, seldom followed today, the call-up to war and activism, faith, holiness, order, and the centrality of worship in everything.
Promises of wonders greater than the Red Sea crossing were kept then, and subsequently in the history of the church, even to the present wherever saved people strive to keep the conditions named: no compromise, honour spiritual obligations, and be consecrated to God’s service.
Following the golden calf God took away His presence and limited the Israelites to a ‘preservation’ grade of experience, mirrored today when we host worldliness or other sins. Here also is the intercession of Moses and his special experience of God’s glory, with lessons.
With Moses away, the idolatrous apostasy at Sinai was met by Aaron’s strategy of appeasement. It was a disaster, condemned by God (yet recurring to this day in evangelical history). How different from the stance of Moses – a type of Christ and an example to us!
Full chapter _____________ Haggai 2 In the seventh month, in the one and twentieth day of the month, came the word of the LORD by the prophet Haggai, saying, Speak now to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and to the residue of … Continued
(1) The daily sweet savour offerings of lambs (2) the altar of incense (3) the half-shekel ransom money (4) the brass laver, and (5) the anointing oil – all had an obvious teaching message for worship and life. Here are these lessons.
God’s own campaign for our souls, and His statement of the human problem of unbelief and detachment from Him. Here, through Isaiah, is God’s reasoned call to us, with what He must do if we refuse, and His amazing kindness if we respond.
The symbolism of the high priest’s garments has often been greatly overdeveloped, but they clearly were symbols of the woman’s promised seed and Abraham’s expected descendant. Here is what they surely conveyed to believing Israelites, and how they spoke of our Redeemer.
‘In the second year of Darius the king, in the sixth month, in the first day of the month, came the word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet unto Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Zephaniah 3 Woe to her that is filthy and polluted, to the oppressing city! She obeyed not the voice; she received not correction; she trusted not in the LORD; she drew not near to her God. Her princes within her are roaring lions; her judges are evening wolves; they gnaw not the … Continued
As well as illustrated prophecies, abiding principles of Christian doctrine, witness and worship are plainly taught by the major features of the Tabernacle (often missed or violated by today’s evangelicalism). Here they are, with their implicit promises and encouragements.
A prophet of old denounced his generation for shutting their ears to the voice of God, rejecting His call, and refusing to approach Him for help. Here are the steps that lead to a sure discovery of Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
An overview of the civil laws given to Moses for Israel to show their great wisdom and kindness, and to explain the real benefits of some that seem unfair when not read alongside passages that explain them. Also, their immense value to Christians.
The Ten Commandments are holy, just and good or beneficial, reflecting God’s own nature. Here are the benefits of the first four. Says God – I am your God: and will be your Father, Saviour, Friend, Defender, Provider and Guide. You will need no other ‘god’.
Many only ever approach God over emergencies, but not to find Him or to have Him as their God. Others approach Him in a way He has already said in the Bible is unacceptable to Him. King David shows the way, and here is his effective approach.
Here are stirring spiritual parallels in God’s words to the typical church at Sinai: eg being borne on eagles’ wings, a peculiar treasure, and a kingdom of priests. Here also is distinctiveness from the world, knowing God by faith alone, and reverence.
‘The burden of Nineveh. The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite. God is jealous, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth, and is furious; the LORD will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies.’ Full chapter _____________ Nahum 1 The burden of Nineveh. The book of the vision … Continued
The trial of faith when the cloudy pillar stops the migrating column in dry Rephidim, and Horeb’s rock – type of Calvary. Then the Amalekites, Satan’s agents to fight Israel: their astonishing unbelief and antagonism until their ‘man of sin’ Haman plans Israel’s destruction c470BC. Today’s equivalent.
The astonishing feeding of an entire nation for 40 years by miraculous manna is a worthy type or prophetic illustration of the redeeming work of Christ. Here are some of the many parallels, and the pastoral lessons for us all, that stream from this narrative.
David provides eight reasons why we commit personal sin, then sets out the magnitude of God’s mercy, His promises of pardon and life, His soaring unchangeable standards, His provisions of help, and the precious thing He gives to those who trust Him.
‘The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; We have heard a rumour from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle.’ Full chapter _____________ Obadiah 1 The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; We … Continued
The first (and last, in Revelation) congregational hymn of the Bible is 19 verses long, glorifies God, and is deeply doctrinal and intelligent. Nothing like contemporary music lyrics, it was learned by multitudes within hours. Here are some of its wonders.
Perhaps the greatest miracle of the Old Testament, the crossing teems with spiritual application, and contains a famous ‘contradiction’ that leads to deliverance. We can only imagine the menacing, towering walls of water, the fiery cloudy pillar, and the long night of faith.
Then said Ziba unto the king, According to all that my lord the king hath commanded his servant, so shall thy servant do. As for Mephibosheth, said the king, he shall eat at my table, as one of the king’s sons. And Mephibosheth had a young son, whose name was Micha. And all that dwelt … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Habakkuk 3 A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet upon Shigionoth. O LORD, I have heard thy speech, and was afraid: O LORD, revive thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make known; in wrath remember mercy. God came from Teman, and the Holy One from … Continued
The quest for safety, success and satisfaction is the story of life, but are they spasmodic or delusory? And do we seek them only in the material realm? Here is the reality of our spiritual needs and standing before God, and how we may know Him.
Indescribable relief filled Hebrew homes that midnight when judgement struck Egypt. They knew as idolaters they deserved it also, but atoning blood kept them. Thousands of lambs secured one deliverance, whereas the Lamb of God would gain eternal life for billions. Here are the parallels.
A review of the plagues of Egypt reveals facts often unnoticed which provide significant principles for the Christian age. Here are: (i) applications for individual believers; (ii) typical features; (iii) profound principles for evangelism drawn from the obduracy of Pharaoh.
Ruler and deliverer Moses is poor, rebuking prosperity heresy. His trial through neglecting a command. Israel’s temporary faith and false converts today. Moses unready for Satan’s actions, nor are we if we defend doctrine but not practice. New significance of the glorious name Jehovah.
The call and commissioning of Moses, including his reservations and the signs God gave him, provide six principles for spiritual mission in all ages, most of which are breached by large sections of evangelicalism today. Yet they are deeply encouraging and vital for Christ’s blessing.
God’s sovereignty seen in the surprising and miraculous rescue of Moses when mighty Pharaoh’s edict was doubly confounded! Faith exercised and rewarded. Christ foreshadowed. Human instrumentality demonstrated through Jochebed and Moses. Separation of ‘church’ and world set in train. Also, why Moses’ conduct in Egypt was faultless.
The centuries between Joseph and the oppression in Egypt are given a single verse noting their miraculous birth rate, but the chapter implies (other texts confirming) six serious failings that brought them to slavery. These same failings bring us down today, while their avoidance lifts us up.
The funeral of Jacob shows the gratitude of Egypt toward him, the reformed character of his sons and the supreme importance in his life of the future promises. Here also is the training of Joseph and his legacy, and how we must always live for eternity.
Jacob’s sons and their tribes are formally blessed and assured of God’s future presence. Warnings are included and positive tribal traits listed, which would combine to equip all Israel. Here also are prophecies of Messiah, and lessons for Christ’s people today, which Israel typified.
Often called ‘The parable of dry bones’, this dramatic prophetic vision predicts a future revival of God’s people, and also gives a narrative of spiritual conversion – the theme of this message. Here is our lifelessness as unbelievers, and the process of receiving new life from God.
And Zedekiah the king said unto Jeremiah, I am afraid of the Jews that are fallen to the Chaldeans, lest they deliver me into their hand, and they mock me. But Jeremiah said, They shall not deliver thee. Obey, I beseech thee, the voice of the LORD, which I speak unto thee: so it … Continued
‘O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 63 O God, … Continued
Isaiah’s remarkable prophecy of Christ on the cross – written 700 years beforehand – describes 30 different things that were perfectly fulfilled. Here are some of them, all proving that Christ is the Son of God and Saviour of all who trust in Him.
Jacob waits for God’s sanction before entering Egypt. Why his listed family names are so significant. God’s plans unfold. Why Egypt? The reasons unveiled – how the church and the seed royal would be spiritually preserved. Lessons from the adoption of Joseph’s sons and the blessing of Reuben.
‘He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 91 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 … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Judges 3 Now these are the nations which the LORD left, to prove Israel by them, even as many of Israel as had not known all the wars of Canaan; Only that the generations of the children of Israel might know, to teach them war, at the least such as before knew … Continued
While the guiding providence of God is notable in Joseph, equally vital is his life-long goal for the repentance and restoration of his brothers (a church typified). Here his strategy is traced for securing conviction, change, reconciliation and provision, mirroring (perhaps including) evangelical conversion.
Joseph in Egypt being prepared by the Lord: the young man’s patience, diligence and integrity; plus fifteen ways in which he is undoubtedly a type of the Great Deliverer, with remarkable examples of God’s providential oversight of His own. Spiritual lessons for today from events.
14 chapters cover Joseph’s history! How can such a deliverer not be a type of Christ? We must reject trivial ideas that Jacob spoiled Joseph, who was disloyal and naive in reporting his brothers’ sins and telling them his dreams. Here are the realities of his spiritual training.
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. And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away … Continued
Here we find four foundational and timeless principles of the Godly union between Man and Woman; Comparability, Compatibility, Completeness and Complementarity.
Teenager Dinah goes into the Hivite town only to be seduced by the prince. Her motive; the hypocrisy of her brothers; their terrible revenge; the family imperilled. Why were Jacob’s offspring so wayward? The purpose and lessons to the church of this record. God’s restoration.
Jacob, enriched, returns to the Promised Land after 20 years greatly afraid that Esau will attack him. His two prayers are here examined, especially the hours in wrestling and pleading with God. Here are God’s purposes with the encouragements and challenges for our praying.
Another group of compelling and intriguing illustrations from Solomon showing how we appear to God when we live without desiring or seeking Him. Here too, are God’s persuasive appeals to wanderers to approach Him, and to discover His life-changing power and companionship.
Emphasising the message of the prophet according to the principles of traditional interpretation, these addresses set out the topics covered by the eight questions posed in the book. Themes such as marriage and the marks of the godly abound, crying out for the attention of the expounder.
Emphasising the message of the prophet according to the principles of traditional interpretation, these addresses set out the topics covered by the eight questions posed in the book. Themes such as marriage and the marks of the godly abound, crying out for the attention of the expounder.
Possibly the oldest book in Scripture, yet a demonstration of how Satan’s arguments against the faith never change. In one address a key was proposed for unlocking the counsels, helps and encouragements of this most rare and unconventional of Old Testament books.
Proverbs is often called (by modern writers) a book of ‘sundry moral maxims’, a description that obscures the depths and purpose of its remarkable miniature parables. This address showed the plot of Proverbs, the cast, the themes and some prime examples of spiritual application evident to traditional expounders.
Miniature parables or illustrations (from King Solomon) showing our condition when we try to live without God, and why we need Him. Here also are life’s spiritual dangers – what we lose without God, and what is gained when we come to Him for new life.
The theophany at Bethel and Jacob’s response. A sense of God the goal of preachers. The shocking fraud in marriage – what should Jacob have done? His spiritual virtues. His preparations for home; were his breeding methods credible? Lessons for posterity, and church and world again separated by God.
Two distinct peoples were born to Rebekah. Isaac though godly never accepted that Jacob should have the entire heritage. He wanted Esau to head the family, while Jacob bore the seed royal. But God once again separated church and world. Here are the lessons.
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. (2 Kings 5:1) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded … Continued
Abraham’s mature faith – noble, magnificent trust; why he received such a hard test; the lessons for us; his reasoning and conclusion; his secret of submission to God; Isaac’s heroic faith and young believers; Jehovah Jireh – the Lord sees ahead and provides; exercising precious faith.
Unknown to Abraham God prepares for him a believing royal neighbour, but the patriarch repeats an old failing. Then Ishmael at 17 persecutes infant Isaac and Sarah realises the seed of the serpent aims to seize the inheritance. God restores separateness to the church. The lessons.
God disclosed to Abraham the destruction of Sodom because his descendants (the church) would ever need to be out of the culture of a world due for destruction. The deliverance of Lot pictures the embarrassment that believers may be found immersed in the world when judgement comes.
A young man sees for the first time divine realities. The testimony of Elisha’s servant speaks to young people today. Here are the unseen factors about every person’s spiritual condition. Here also is God’s solution and the experience of seeing and embracing it.
At a time when many evangelicals want to be part of worldly culture, we take note of the sorry results of Abram and Sarai’s identical mistake – seeking a godly outcome by worldly means. Then the rich lessons for the Lord’s renewed covenant.
Here is the first prophet of the Bible, the first vision, the first mention of justification by faith, and other ‘firsts’. How Abram’s seed resemble stars, and how Abram saw Christ as chief among them and believed God. Here also is the meaning of the burning furnace and lamp.
‘I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing. I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 101 I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, … Continued
Here Moses speaks to people who, despite decades of teaching and remarkable miracles, were still in a spiritual stupor, having no desire to know God. How like them we are before conversion! Here are reasons why we need the Lord, and some of the persuasive pleadings of the Bible.
Abram’s renewed faith; how Lot, though godly, gradually declines in commitment to his earthly hurt; God’s enlarged promises to Abram and the condition of faith met; faith in the rescue of Lot; Abram discloses his vow to God and his refusal of earthly help, with lessons.
The mountains of Jerusalem, especially the Temple Mount, remind the psalmist of the Creator, and of his own human smallness, and need of spiritual life. Here is how this powerful metaphor persuades us to reach out to God for life and purpose.
Abraham responds to God’s four ‘I will’ promises despite impediments to faith. Sarai’s view of marriage. A nomad for God – principles for today. The lie to Pharaoh to preserve the promised seed a momentary loss of the four promises; lessons for us.
The line of Shem (seed of the woman) had become too close to the line of unbelief when mankind rebelliously built Babel. Judgement forced dispersal to predetermined locations and called out God’s people. Here is the meaning of the dramatic event.
In this historical event is the first imperative ‘come’ of the Bible, a rich type of faith, judgement to come, grace and eternal security. Here too are attributes of God, persisting human depravity, and the theme running through Scripture – the gulf between the world and the church.
Drawn away from God by various influences (mentioned here), we become our own god, requiring ‘worship’ and admiration, and inventing our own ruler. Then God intervenes, and we see ourselves as we really are. Only He can turn us round to find and walk with Him. Here is how.
By Noah’s time the church of Adam and Seth had so degenerated that it became intertwined with the world – the line of Cain, and the moral breakdown of both was complete. Heroic Noah and family would alone survive. Here are the lessons of the Flood.
As Genesis 3 foretold, the ages-long history of hostility of the world toward the church begins, Abel then Seth representing the godly. Here also is the first death, God’s call of mercy to Cain, the warning, the curse, and the defiance of unbelief.
In this royal testimony of conversion David describes his previous ignorance, and how the wonder and majesty of the night sky stamped on his mind God’s infinite being, and his own smallness, bringing him to seek the kindness that stoops, pardons and imparts spiritual life.
The arrival of guilt and sin, shame and conscience. The serpent’s method then (and now), the choice of disobedience, the compound sin, the consequences, the beginning of enmity between the church and world, and the Gospel of the promised seed; with observations and application.
Proving there are no contradictions between Genesis 1 and 2; the Sabbath established, and its purpose; the Garden located; its central trees; the covenant test of man; the profound method for forming the woman and its lessons for marriage throughout time.
A new series in Genesis. Why God phased creation over six days; why the particular order; the full glories of light; the higher purpose of night; the picture of a divine craftsman working to the pinnacle of all – mankind. How the literal view deepens faith.
Wealth, fame, power, health, ability and pleasure all rank among the things most desired by men and women. But the Christian message ranks the forgiveness of God greater than them all. Here are the limits and costs of the former, and the eternal gains of free forgiveness.
In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. (Isaiah 38:1) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the … Continued
Here is the life and attempted coup of Absalom, son of king David, with its startling parallels of everyone’s rebellion against their God. We trace Absalom’s thoughts and plans, and his end. Here is the gentle searching of our hearts by God, designed to lead us back to Him.
King David shows that no ruler or society or relation or loved one can help an individual person concerning the soul. This central, vital core of our being can only be enlivened and protected by God, and David’s message is about God’s way of saving the soul.
‘Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.’ Full chapter _____________ Isaiah 28 Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty is a … Continued
‘I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 119 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in … Continued
God’s thoughts are so much higher than ours. He knows everything that happens – past, present and future – all the time, and His plans and intents are holy, perfect, just and fair. Ours are so different. Only God could conceive of a plan of free salvation for us, described here.
What will we do, asks Isaiah, in the day God brings us to account for our life? At the moment God disrupts our indifference to Him, or our defiance of Him, what will become of us? Here are examples of futile human defences. The only Saviour must be sought before that final day.
Then one of the priests whom they had carried away from Samaria came and dwelt in Beth-el, and taught them how they should fear the LORD. (2 Kings 17:28) 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 … Continued
According to the Bible morally evil behaviour is both. People sin knowingly and wilfully, and this turns into a disease, but one for which they remain responsible, because God’s forgiveness and re-making is freely available. Here are the facts about conversion to the Lord.
We see the marvels of Creation, but do not grasp the attributes of God, nor how He reconciles people with Himself. We are usually amazed when we first focus on the ‘unexpected things of God’, that draw us to seek Him.
Soul-winning reasoning often of a unique kind is found throughout the psalms. This address showed some of these themes and provide sample suggested sermon outlines, including individual verses with special potential.
Jeremiah employs graphic evangelistic reasoning more than any other Old Testament prophet, frequently calling individuals to consider their souls. To see the prophet’s searching, pressing arguments is like turning a key in a lock, opening the door to the utilising of Old Testament passages for evangelistic preaching.
Here are the prophecies of Christ, the Branch, and of His ransom for sinners; of the return of the exiles; of the calling out of believers in the Gospel age; of the calling of the Gentiles; of the New Testament ministry, and the regenerate character of the church.
Although almost alone in his stand, Jeremiah obeyed God’s express command in these chapters to make no concession to apostate culture (unlike many evangelicals today). Here also is the source of his strength, his occasions of doubt, meeting with God’s reproof, and his preaching emphasis.
Here we glean the necessity of 1) strong sorrow for the lost, 2) ministering for conviction, 3) humbling ministry, 4) expansive labouring, 5) readiness for trials, 6) closeness to Christ. Precious and powerful verses to challenge and enliven sincere students of the Word.
Why does the prophet appeal to Judah to repent, when he knows they never will? So that God’s heart in the matter will be seen, obstinacy revealed and so that individuals may find the Lord. Here are lines of appeal still to be used today.
Whether or not we are thankful to God (the highest duty of the human heart) says more about our souls, our direction in life, and our eternal destiny than we realise. Here a range of attitudes to God are reviewed, showing our need to experience His power and love.
‘God is unfair,’ they said. But God declares that He has no pleasure in seeing lives thrown away in materialism, unbelief and spiritual loss. Here is the cause of the problem, God’s remedy, His fairness, His mercy, and what He does for those who turn to Him.
The unfaithful wife called back shows God’s patience to rebellious Israel. How much more to true believers who should never delay repentance after waywardness. Compromised Judah prayed to the true God from idol shrines! Reasons why worldly evangelicals forfeit real blessing today.
Modern translators and writer destroy the message of Jeremiah by calling his words charges or accusations against Judah rather than pleadings (KJV). Here is how we are meant to read these pleadings and apply them to ourselves, to derive challenge and comfort.
In 627 BC the long ministry begins. His call is our call – analysing the features, terms and privileges. Jeremiah’s good reluctance, his anointing and level of conviction; the certain outcome of his words (and ours). Are we in the last phase of the age?
A psalm vividly portraying the traps and snares life presents to the soul, and the vulnerability of unbelief. How these snares are baited, and minds are made entirely materialistic. Here also is how the mind may be woken to find and trust in God
All the prayers of the book reviewed, long and short, to see how God’s servant prayed; his petitions, anxieties, and arguments up to his final ‘eschatological’ pleas looking forward to the revealing of Christ. All the prayers may be ours, and have the last Great Day in view.
The wall is complete, but within a few years the enemy is given quarters in the Temple. Confessions of faith are vital but the enemy may still enter by polluted practices. The entry of the world into the church, and what we should do.
Around 1350BC a community lived luxuriously at Laish near ancient Sidon, carefree, having no enemies, no magistrates, and no allies. The marauders destroyed them. Seen as a parable of life without God this narrative has stirred many to consider their soul, and seek the Lord.
‘And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.’ Full chapter _____________ Judges 3 Now these are the nations which the LORD left, to prove Israel by them, even as … Continued
The remnant re-establishing Jerusalem were to enter into formal covenant with God, a type of the sense of obligation and commitment of believers today. Here is the remarkable pattern for true worship and consecration and a list of personal obligations, derived from the chapter.
The order of reform (temple-walls-populating) equals: (1) worship, (2) defining and defending the faith, (3) evangelism. The calamitous reinvention of the church by evangelicals who reject God’s pattern. Also the revival of exposition and reverent worship, and the promotion of true joy in the Lord.
Progress reveals enemies who show friendship but plot to kill, and other subtle attempts to stop the work – applications for today. Here also is a brief survey of the duty of biblical separation, its necessity, and the scope for discretion.
The demoralised state of Judah (because faith failed) compared with the torpidity of our reformed churches in Britain. Lessons from the hostility of enemies to the stirring of Zion, plus weaknesses within and the need for watchfulness by churches and individual believers. Things to be watched.
Introducing Nehemiah; background information, the shocking news of failure from Judah, the diagnosis (‘our fault’), the admirable prayer, the sacrificial decision to go, and the plea to the king. Twelve key applications – qualifications which secured Nehemiah’s ‘call’ to a mission of civic and spiritual recovery
A biblical case history – the life of Micah, who possessed great faith in religion, but a shallow empty life, devastated when his earthly goods were plundered. By contrast, here are others, whose faith led them to know the living God, and real fulfillment and happiness.
With graphic and intriguing appeals the prophet presents our typical approaches to life, our expectations and desires. Each brief picture says something startlingly true about life, and points to our need of the Saviour of the world to bring an eternal direction into our earthly journey.
Here is a magnificent 3,500-year-old sermon about humility, providing ten aspects of life in which humility is the central element. How, for example, may a CEO remain humble before the Lord? The prophet endowed with greater meekness than all, apart from Christ, provides the key.
‘Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 1 Blessed … Continued
Surely it is the chief concern of truly saved people to keep alive and increase the vital flame of love for God. Here are the deep counsels of Moses on the various essential expressions of love to God which should be our pursuit, with hindrances and helps.
Moses reviews how a generation was set aside by God, and how the Israelites were forbidden to seize three nations, but to bypass them. Here is the stream of ongoing and vital principles that apply to the life of churches and individual believers to this day.
Almost 3500 years ago Moses preached his last sermons to the church of old, and these are preserved for us today in Deuteronomy. Here are the doctrines, comforts, promises and exhortations of the inspired pastor-prophet more quoted by the Saviour than any other.
Full chapter _____________ Ruth 1 Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Beth-lehem-judah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. And the name of the man was … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Exodus 17 And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink. Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give … Continued
The Bible presents the only meaningful explanation of the source of evil behaviour in the world, showing that it stems from wilful independence from God, and self-indulgence. Here is how it began, its extensiveness, its effects, and how, amazingly, people may be forgiven and restored by God.
‘LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 15 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, … Continued
And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the law, that he rent his clothes. (2 Chronicles 34:19) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs of the soul. Permit me, as a pastor for many years, … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Psalm 39 I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred. My heart … Continued
‘As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 42 As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? … Continued
Most people would be amazed to hear that they owe anything to God, or rob Him. Does not God possess the universe and infinite resources? Yet the Bible calls us thieves, duly cut off from God. Here is what we steal, and how we must be reconciled
A remarkable group of proverbs teach that spiritual joy must be deepened by the individual believer taking the rights steps here enumerated. They also show that joy needs spiritual priorities, restraint over material things, fellowship, control of anger, and worthy not trivial meat for the mind. Here is spiritual happiness!
Not blissful happiness or ‘Christian hedonism’, because in a world of sin there are countless griefs and trials, but the lifting up of the inner person. This psalm remarkably conducts us through an agenda for thanksgiving and reflection that greatly strengthens and gladdens the heart.
The last prophet of the OT challenges Jerusalem’s severe spiritual decline, around 425 BC. The trouble lay with insincere ministers, shocking compromise, and sheer lack of commitment. Yet here also are detailed predictions of Christ, of the age of the Gospel, and of the eternal destiny of the faithful.
King David sympathetically and appealingly spells out the terms and conditions of salvation. Speaking from his own experience, he shows what we must believe, what our attitude should be, and how we ought to ask for new life from God. He also describes God’s response.
The first wave of Jews to return from Babylonian exile had stopped building the temple to focus on their own homes. Haggai brings God’s rebuke, revealing how God inhibits the happiness of His erring people, then giving immense encouragement, assurance of preservation, and prophesying Christ’s coming and the Christian era.
‘Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and all the heads of the tribes, the chief of the fathers of the children of Israel, unto king Solomon in Jerusalem, that they might bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which is Zion.’ Full chapter _____________ … Continued
‘The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 36 The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes. For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be … Continued
Everything in Daniel’s exceptional life and ministry arose from his first test on arrival in Babylon. This, with later tests, and his revelations, maintained him for 70 years at the top of an empire, for the preservation of Zion, and for imparting unique prophecies on historic eras and the last times. Here is biblical faithfulness at its noblest.
Our greatest problem is not sickness, hardship or even death, but something we carry beyond death – the silent burden of guilt. Only the forgiveness of God can eradicate guilt and here is how God has made this possible, and how we may be reconciled with Him.
Related Resources Sermon Series: Portrait of the Prophets Dr Peter Masters Here are sermons on the Old Testament prophets. Examine the amazing prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Hosea and all of God’s messengers. See also the the reigns of King Hezekiah and Josiah – Judah’s last good King. Series: Prophets Portrait of the Prophets Isaiah 6.13 … Continued
Life can only be measured in terms of our value and significance before God. King David recalls that he had fallen into backsliding, but grasped afresh the brevity and futility of life without a living experience of God. Here are the thoughts that brought him to renew that experience.
Related Resources Awakening under Hezekiah From a series entitled ‘Lessons in Faith’ from the life of Hezekiah. Related Resource: Lessons in Faith From Hezekiah Lessons in Faith From Hezekiah Part of a series of Bible Studies from 2 Kings entitled ‘Lessons in Faith’. Related Resource: Awakening under Hezekiah Hezekiah’s Defence of Jerusalem As described in … Continued
Related Resources Light from a False Prophet Why God used the phenomenon of an ass seeing the angel of the Lord and speaking. Balaam’s true visions, and how he grasped the vulnerability of Israel should she lose her distinctiveness. The outcome – ‘the doctrine of Balaam’ – found to this day among evangelicals. Inspiration from … Continued
Related Resources Sermon Series: Portrait of the Prophets Dr Peter Masters Here are sermons on the Old Testament prophets. Examine the amazing prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Hosea and all of God’s messengers. See also the the reigns of King Hezekiah and Josiah – Judah’s last good King. Portrait of the Prophets – The Vision of … Continued
Related Resources Sermon Series: Portrait of the Prophets Dr Peter Masters Here are sermons on the Old Testament prophets. Examine the amazing prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Hosea and all of God’s messengers. See also the the reigns of King Hezekiah and Josiah – Judah’s last good King. Portrait of the Prophets – The Vision of … Continued
Other issues in life may sweep God out of our thought, or we may be indifferent to Him, or deliberately forget Him. But God and the soul are the most tragic losses to any person. Here is what we lose, and how we may find all we have lost.
Related Resources Portrait of the Prophets – The Vision of Habakkuk Portrait of the Prophets – Hosea Speaks of Christ Portrait of the Prophets (2) The Earliest Writers
Related Resources Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Elijah and Elisha Dr Peter Masters Sermons on 1 and 2 Kings. An obscure prophet explodes on to the scene. Here are wonderful lessons and spiritual illustrations for God’s people, from two of the most notable prophets in the Word of God. Series: Elijah – Elisha Spiritual … Continued
What Elisha’s prophets taught – alongside the law, salvation and the psalms of spiritual life, they taught God’s lessons from events, including the miracles of Elijah and Elisha. Here are examples of their sermons from miracles, including the siege of Samaria and its overthrow.
Countless people, pre-occupied with material things, have suddenly heard about the real God, His powers and plans, and been totally surprised. Then they have heard about human alienation from God and the remedy and have found Him for themselves. This is for all who have never considered their God.
Analysing semi-conversion – Elisha’s servant despite his spiritual advantages fell, and the reasons show pseudo-conversion, its signs, causes and dangers. By contrast the miracle of the floating axe shows a student prophet with marks of grace and dependence on the Lord.
Related Resources Anger is a Tender Virtue He who would be angry without sin must not be angry at anything except sin. Our Saviour was angry with Peter, and angry with the Pharisees for the hardness of their hearts. Moses was filled with holy anger at the people over the golden calf. Equanimity in such … Continued
Before conversion, the claims of God mean nothing to us, but when God’s Word speaks to our hearts, the challenge becomes inescapable. Self-searching begins, and the kindness of God’s forgiving love is grasped as never before. Here is God’s reasoning with souls.
Related Resources The Making of a Servant of God ‘My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.’ Christ’s Servants Never Bound A passage about situations … Continued
Canaan symbolises heaven, but chiefly it pictures the new life entered at conversion, given and ‘watered’ by God, to be increasingly ‘possessed’ by the believer. Here are God’s commands and promises, with nine new developments that come with growing Christian experience every new year.
Related Resources Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Elijah and Elisha Dr Peter Masters Sermons on 1 and 2 Kings. An obscure prophet explodes on to the scene. Here are wonderful lessons and spiritual illustrations for God’s people, from two of the most notable prophets in the Word of God. Series: Elijah – Elisha Spiritual Lessons … Continued
Related Resources 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 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: … Continued
The spiritual meaning behind Elijah’s withdrawal (not desertion!) from Jezebel’s murderous threats, his deep dismay and despondency at the seeming failure of Carmel events to move hardened Israelites, and his pilgrimage to Sinai seeking light. God’s gracious treatment of His faithful prophet, and his new commission.
A challenge about the soul from Moses, who sets out the issue of choosing life or death, urging us to see what we miss by rejecting God, and calling us to weigh the eternal advantages and results of walking with Him. ‘Choose life!’ he pleads.
Related Resources 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 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: … Continued
Related Resources 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 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: … Continued
King Solomon demonstrates in a famous and remarkable masterpiece of literature how trapped and limited we are, dominated by the events of life. But freedom is available to us, and limitations are removed, when a new spiritual dimension is received into our life.
Related Resources Spiritual Psychology Understanding how the heart (mind-affections-will) may lose spiritual sensitivity and strength, and how these may be restored and maintained. Keeping church and world distinct, and why Christian works of compassion are different from the heresy that Christ calls us to restore the world. The Seven Pillars of Counselling Over the last … Continued
Related Resources Solomon’s Fall and Recovery Related Resource: Solomon’s Fall and Repentance The Spiritual Heights of Solomon Related Resources: Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Samuel to Solomon Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom Related Resource: Four Aspects of Wisdom
Related Resources Solomon’s Fall and Recovery Related Resource: Solomon’s Fall and Repentance The Spiritual Heights of Solomon Related Resources: Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Samuel to Solomon Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom Related Resource: Four Aspects of Wisdom
Related Resources 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 God is in … Continued
How vastly different God’s thoughts are from ours! Here is what He thinks about our indifference to Him and about showing mercy and love to us by sending an atoning Saviour. Here also is a comparison of God’s views and ours on matters that decide our eternal calling.
Related Resources Solomon’s Fall and Recovery Related Resource: Solomon’s Fall and Repentance The Spiritual Heights of Solomon Related Resources: Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Samuel to Solomon Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom Related Resource: Four Aspects of Wisdom
Related Resources Solomon’s Fall and Recovery Related Resource: Solomon’s Fall and Repentance The Spiritual Heights of Solomon Related Resources: Sermon Series: Spiritual Lessons – Samuel to Solomon Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom Related Resource: Four Aspects of Wisdom
Full chapter _____________ Psalm 55 Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication. Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and … Continued
‘Let us bow in prayer together, let us pray. In the quietness of this and other Lord’s Day evening, we come to open up your most holy word, our God. We come to speak again of the wonders of your love and grace, to be pointed by thy Spirit unto the Lord Jesus, the … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Psalm 39 I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred. My heart was … Continued
The nations shall see and be confounded at all their might. They shall lay their hand upon their mouth, their ears shall be deaf. They shall lick the dust like a serpent. They shall move out of their holes like worms of the earth. They shall be afraid of the Lord our God and shall … Continued
Full chapter _____________ 1 Samuel 12 And Samuel said unto all Israel, Behold, I have hearkened unto your voice in all that ye said unto me, and have made a king over you. And now, behold, the king walketh before you: and I am old and grayheaded; and, behold, my sons are with you: and … Continued
‘Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.’ Full chapter _____________ Psalm 119 Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. … Continued
The psalmist had stumbled into material desire, or into doubts, envying the apparent benefits of godless people. But surrounded by the symbols of divine mercy in the sanctuary, he recovered his sense of salvation, his exclamation of love yielding great lessons for us on how to express love to Christ.
‘Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?’ Full chapter _____________ Ezekiel 33 Again the … Continued
If we are boxed in to a material view of life, this psalm is like a camera drawing back and showing the real context of our earthly journey. We see ourselves passing through a ravine oblivious to the dangers and destination. Here is vital information for those seeking their Creator.
‘The burden of the word of the LORD in the land of Hadrach, and Damascus shall be the rest thereof: when the eyes of man, as of all the tribes of Israel, shall be toward the LORD.’ Full chapter _____________ Zechariah 9 The burden of the word of the LORD in the land of … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Nahum 1 The burden of Nineveh. The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite. God is jealous, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth, and is furious; the LORD will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies. The LORD is slow to anger, and great … Continued
David’s census – a lesson for God’s people throughout time about acting only on divine authority. Who inspired it: God or Satan? Why was it so wrong? The ‘normative principle’ of God’s rule over us. The problem of pride and God’s precautions for us. A verse also about heartfelt worship.
About 850 BC Samaria was under siege, and the people starving, when four men abandoned faith, fled, and found riches without God. But the narrative reveals the ephemeral benefits of a life without God, and the necessity of knowing Him.
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from the Life of David (8) David’s census – a lesson for God’s people throughout time about acting only on divine authority. Who inspired it: God or Satan? Why was it so wrong? The ‘normative principle’ of God’s rule over us. The problem of pride and God’s precautions for us. … Continued
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from the Life of David (8) David’s census – a lesson for God’s people throughout time about acting only on divine authority. Who inspired it: God or Satan? Why was it so wrong? The ‘normative principle’ of God’s rule over us. The problem of pride and God’s precautions for us. … Continued
‘And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him. And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called … Continued
The contrast between love and lust seen in Amnon’s rape of Tamar; Jonadab, like Satan, will prove a treacherous friend; Absalom unites charm and murderous cunning; a coup prepared after ’40 years’ – not an error but linking to the public mood that deposed Samuel.
Following comments on the summary of David’s wars (ch 8), the kindness shown to Mephibosheth (ch 9), and the Ammonite war (ch 10), this message focusses on the fall of David into sin, the causes and consequences, applied to God’s people today (ch 11-12).
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from the Life of David (8) David’s census – a lesson for God’s people throughout time about acting only on divine authority. Who inspired it: God or Satan? Why was it so wrong? The ‘normative principle’ of God’s rule over us. The problem of pride and God’s precautions for us. A … Continued
‘Again, David gathered together all the chosen men of Israel, thirty thousand. And David arose, and went with all the people that were with him from Baale of Judah, to bring up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that dwelleth between the cherubims.’ … Continued
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from the Life of David (8) David’s census – a lesson for God’s people throughout time about acting only on divine authority. Who inspired it: God or Satan? Why was it so wrong? The ‘normative principle’ of God’s rule over us. The problem of pride and God’s precautions for us. A … Continued
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (5) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (4) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (3) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (2) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David
David’s prophecy of Calvary, quoted by Christ as His own words, describes verse-by-verse the details and purpose of Calvary more deeply even than the Gospels. Then (from verse 23) David exhorts believers to love Him, and predicts eternal glory. (Good Friday service)
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (4) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (3) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (2) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David
Two famous commands from God give total insight into how we should approach Him for new life – ‘Stand still! Go forward!’ The message is about how to resolve our inner struggles and concerns in calling upon Christ for forgiveness and conversion
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (6) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (5) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (2)
Related Resources Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (6) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (5) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (4)
Why are we often so resistant to reconciliation with God? This is about our various reactions to the call of Christ, and how we avoid spiritual and eternal issues. Here, also, are some of the real dangers of delay, and the way to respond to God, and find His blessings.
Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (6) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (5) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (4) Spiritual Lessons from Saul and David (3)
Manasseh – a long-reigning king of Judah – heard Isaiah preach in his youth, but rejected God to plunge into extreme evil. Yet, despite a near-lifetime of this, he was humbled and turned to Him for mercy. Here is a narrative of the extraordinary mercy of God in the saving of a soul.
‘Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and were gathered together at Shochoh, which belongeth to Judah, and pitched between Shochoh and Azekah, in Ephes-dammim. And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines.’ Related Resources … Continued
We are called to turn away from lives in which God is excluded, and to seek and rely on Jesus Christ. Why? What is He really like? What has He done? What can He do for us, now, and eternally? What is it like to know Him, and what are the terms for responding to His call?
Related Resources 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 … Continued
Present-day Western ‘idolatry’ is the worship of a god invented by us, or of earthly objects and goals which we substitute for God. Here are the massive differences between the true and living God and all substitutes.
‘Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?’
True atheism is rare. Everyone prays at some time, but how? Here are prayers that fall to the ground, and why, contrasted with the kind that God has promised to answer. To know these things is to know how to approach and find God in a true and personal way.
‘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. And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the army in … Continued
‘Now there was a certain man of Ramathaim-zophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite: And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah … Continued
‘And it came to pass in those days, when there was no king in Israel, that there was a certain Levite sojourning on the side of mount Ephraim, who took to him a concubine out of Beth-lehem-judah.’
‘And there was a man of mount Ephraim, whose name was Micah. And he said unto his mother, The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from thee, about which thou cursedst, and spakest of also in mine ears, behold, the silver is with me; I took it. And his mother said, Blessed be … Continued
Here is the most detailed prophecy – 900 years before the event – of Christ’s work and of the way He would capture the hearts of billions until the final day of earth’s history. This is the message of eternal life.
