Is our continuing sanctification impeded by worldliness? Here is how we may rediscover the secret power. We need always to ask – Is it clean? Is it edifying? Could I take the Lord there?
Spiritual joy is a deep cheerfulness and gladness of heart. It is happiness and a calm spirit. It comes to us as the direct result of knowing Christ Jesus, along with all that he has done for us, and will do, not just in this life, but eternally. It has a constant property, flourishing in the worst soil, and coexisting with fierce conflict, disappointment and loss.
‘For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.’
‘For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.’
‘Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.’
Conversion to God is a remarkable phenomenon that altogether changes a person spiritually and morally. Here are its elements, highlighting the immeasurable gains for life and eternity, and the losses – the latter being deceptive and destructive features of life. Here is the wonder of finding Christ.
Full chapter _____________ Philippians 4 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with … Continued
Paul describes the personal work of Christ, His divine nature and His eternal attributes. He speaks of His becoming a man and His atoning death. Here are the reasons why He will reign in glory, and precisely what He has achieved for us. You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: How to Seek and Find the … Continued
The meaning of the rejoice words of the New Testament, the components of Christian happiness, how it differs from ordinary earthly happiness, how to achieve it, and maintain it in times of trouble and grief, and what to avoid in order not to spoil it.
‘Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion … Continued
A single study review of Timothy as a model for believers, particularly his remarkable sympathy, his commendation, his forwardness and courage (contrary to what is often assumed about him), and his humility. Here is the evidence and the practical counsel for us in our day.
Here is how Paul the Apostle evaluated himself before his conversion, his worth as a person and his prospects, and how he came to see his worthlessness, and the overwhelming superiority of knowing Christ, and His transforming power and love.
It is said that the hardest operation in the soul is the melting of pride and the building of true humility, yet it is the essence of sanctification, and Calvary the means.
To underestimate Christ is the greatest tragedy leading to eternal loss. Here are Christ’s attributes and work; His incomparable compassion for souls, His accomplishments, what it means to find and know Him, and why His name is above every earthly name.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in … Continued
Full chapter _____________ Philippians 4 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with … Continued
A refresher in prayer: right and wrong anxiety; spiritual damage of the latter; hindrances and helps in prayer; the approach to God; rules of pleading; elements of thanksgiving; reasons why prayer is not heard; the mistake of the ‘Yes, No, Wait’ scheme, and the glorious reality.
Paul speaks about God providing our needs, not supplying excessive earthly rewards, as the prosperity heretics claim. Here are the conditions. God’s ‘riches in glory’ are here defined, also how all glory should be His, not directed at human instruments.
Paul has learned calm contentment of soul and how to obtain strength from Christ in every situation. Violence, sickness and poverty may abase, while revelations and blessing bring other dangers. Here are ‘five points of contentment’ that secure Christ’s presence and power in all events.
Here are the matters which should occupy the minds and plans of believers. ‘Whatsoever things are true’ refers to the spiritual realities which should be our chief concern, unless we are becoming pliable, indifferent and ambivalent concerning the service and standards of the Lord.
The apostle’s way to all-surmounting trust and strength despite trouble or prosperity. Here are six very distinctive steps that lead – by the sure promise of God – to spiritual safety and assurance. Here also is a definition of the peace that far surpasses all understanding.
The deepest and most glorious concept – a union determined from eternity, secured at Calvary, implemented at conversion, deepened through life and perfected in death. Here is how it is felt; with a pastoral survey of the departments and circumstances in which union is unmistakably experienced.
To be named in this most magnificent register of grace cannot be bought, earned or inherited. How could Paul be so certain that his co-labourers were named there? ‘Eternal security’ as widely preached is dangerously wrong, but the security of ‘perseverers’ is assured by the Book.
The opposite of minding earthly things is to keep heavenly themes in view. Here is how we should express and experience our heavenly citizenship with its riches and benefits, and how this exalts Christ in our hearts, and gives us perspective for all situations.
Not only are the apostle’s church activities a pattern for churches of all ages, but his manner of life is also to be closely imitated by believers. Here are key passages highlighting aspects of character, to develop and encourage true progress in godliness.
Having been saved thirty years, Paul speaks of knowing ongoing resurrection power in his life, continuing to conform his mind, heart and will to Christ. What about earthly interests and pursuits? How should we weigh and ration them to fulfil the sufferings of Christ for us?
Paul’s famous gain and loss passage exposes false hopes for both salvation and earthly satisfaction. Some 30 years after his conversion, the apostle affirms the overwhelming superiority of knowing Christ. What he means is explored here, especially the experience of walking with Christ.
The need to protect the Gospel and the Church; the threefold nature of the enemy; how to worship in the Spirit, and glory in Christ; ‘flesh’ in the church today; human inventions in God’s work; and how to express the right kind of sympathy for the unsaved.
The command to be happy as believers raises questions for all who suffer trials or have good cause for heaviness. Here is joy that exists alongside every hard experience, and how it is to be procured by reflection on key aspects of Christ and His work for us.
The believer’s life is to be a conscious and willing sacrifice of love and service to God. Here is how we are to assess the condition of our church, and where it should be strong. Also, here are Paul’s indications of a future pastor.
To grow in appreciation of and delight in God’s commands provides motivation and zeal for obedience. Here is Paul’s counsel for advance and especially in the paramount duty of representing Christ by our lives, and lifting up the light of the Gospel.
Sanctification involves striving in obedience to God, by His power. Here are key striving texts, and an overview of the four departments of holy, spiritual living for which we are to strive. Here also is the apostle’s definition of conscientious effort.
As God-and-Man Christ is elevated to the highest glory and given a name unutterable on earth, but known in Glory. A strongly uplifting study for believers is to explore this greatest name, not to identify it, but to grasp its significance and wonder.
Paul shows that to think as a Christian needs the impetus of strong indebtedness to Christ. Urged by this, we can adopt spiritual values, particularly dis-self-esteem, plus outgoing care for others. Then we begin to resemble our Lord, who laid aside Heavenly glory for His people.
How greatly Paul longed to be with Christ! Do we have such love of the Lord? Here Paul shows how to increase in appreciation of Christ. He also urges believers to Gospel labour, honouring their heavenly citizenship standards (not compromising with the world, as some prescribe).
Paul’s great profession challenges every believer. All we are and have is Christ’s – homes, possessions, abilities, and time. He is our standing, strength, joy and future. We live to prove Him in holiness, service and love, and here is how death is all gain for His people.
Paul is silenced by imprisonment for years, yet in Rome his witness stirs the entire emperor’s palace and guard, and moves the ‘underground’ church to new boldness. Learning from the tragedy of wrongly motivated preachers. Also, praying for preachers, and the challenge to magnify Christ by life or death.
Paul prays that our love will overflow, leading us to choose Christ’s interests in every aspect of life. Our spiritual journey consists of continuous choices – here they are. Right choosing keeps us genuine all the way, and gives rise to practical fruits that glorify God.
Philippi had a remarkable congregation, bonded to the apostle Paul through longstanding ties of support and love. This is truly an epistle of love, also shedding much light on how to apply the Word to life, and to the practical service of Christ.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs of the soul. Permit me, as a pastor for many years, to plead with … Continued
‘For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.’ Full chapter _____________ Philippians 3 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. Beware of dogs, beware of … Continued
Timothy proves that a third-generation Christian does not have to be third-rate. Here is his background and characteristics, together with the race analogy which kept him in daily prayer and effort. This is the life of ‘focus’ which we all need, young and old.
How do we cope with troubles? Do we put into practice the steps so carefully presented by Paul for finding God’s peace? Here are those five steps for knowing peace even at the eye of the storm, which keeps our reasoning clear, and the Lord in view.
Saul of Tarsus held a high opinion of himself and his standing before God, but one day it all came crashing down, and he saw the real situation. It led him to know God truly, and receive a new life. His great and eternal gains may also be ours.
Treasures from the past – the second of four rare recordings from the renowned Bible commentator (1900-1982). A stirring, heart-warming devotional survey from one who excelled in combining quality of scholarship with simplicity of expression. A great example of the art of taking sublime truths and helping people feel them in their hearts.
