On the last evening before His crucifixion, the Lord walked with His disciples from the upper room to the Garden of Gethsemane. At that time He exclaimed, ‘I am the True Vine.’ Here is the necessity of gaining life from Him, and what it accomplishes.
Christ the Saviour does not merely guide us to eternal life, He is personally the road that leads there. Here is what He did to be the only true and certain way, and why only He can impart life to our souls.
In His fifth great ‘I AM’ statement, the Lord uses the future bodily resurrection as an illustration of the spiritual resurrection which must take place in one’s life in order to know Him, and have eternal life.
Each of Christ’s ‘I am’ sayings shows an element of His saving work. ‘I am the Good Shepherd’ points to the love and mercy of Christ as He reaches out to and calls individuals. Here are the feelings and actions of the ‘lover of souls’.
‘While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.’
The door to God and heaven is for ever closed to all who never want or seek Him. But to all who want to find Him the door stands open. Christ is Himself the door, and this is how He enables us to enter.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
At the feast of Tabernacles, when the Temple was illuminated with additional giant lampstands, and torchlight processions passed through the evening streets, Christ proclaimed Himself as light to the world, and the light of life. Here is the meaning of His momentous claim.
While on earth, Christ made seven astonishing claims, using the words of God to Moses ‘I AM that I AM’. The first claim ‘I am the Bread of Life,’ describes the work of Christ as Saviour, securing pardon and life for all who believe in Him.
The Lord’s parable of the vineyard labourers tells us that our reconciliation with God is an event initiated by God, in which people in every age-group renounce their hostility and resistance to Him, and trust in the work of Christ for acceptance and new life.
What is the soul? How does it differ from the physical body? What are its unique and priceless capacities? What happens if it is neglected or disowned? What happens if a dormant soul is enlivened and enabled to function by God? What makes it eternal?
We often hear it said that the conscience is a religious invention, a myth, inherited from ignorant generations, But such shallow thinking is easily refuted. Here is the Bible speaking on how conscience is abused, and how it may be cleansed.
Here is the very first sermon of the Christian Church, given by Peter in Jerusalem. Thousands of Jews were challenged to change their entire way of thinking, and to seek the forgiveness of Christ. This is what happened and how 3000 were totally changed that day.
‘Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many: And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.’
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.
Conversion is an intensely personal experience. It is a conscious awareness of Christ intervening in our life. We become certain that Christ, in incomprehensible love, bore away the punishment of our sin in His sufferings on Calvary’s cross. It is to become truly related to Him.
Coming to Christ brings us to taste and feel and experience His power and kindness. It is far deeper than head-knowledge or mere sentimentality. Here, from the prayer of Scripture, we show what Christ gives to all who trust in Him.
‘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?’
‘Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.’
‘Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.’
When Christ healed a paralysed man, He first pronounced that his sins were forgiven. To prove that He had power to forgive, He then healed the body, giving life where all had been limp and motionless; illustrating the changes in conversion to Christ.
Surely nothing is more tragic than to believe life is peaceful and secure without God, only to discover one day that one faces eternal disaster. Here is the false peace that imprisons us in this material world and keeps us from seeking and finding the Lord.
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.
‘Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.’
‘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.’
‘So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum.’
‘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.’
‘And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?’
‘And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.’
‘Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.’
God appeals to our intelligent minds – but will we listen? Our inclination is to turn away, but if God in His mercy places in us a thirst for certain things, we listen and come to Him. Here are the needs that draw us to God.
‘And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.’
‘And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.’
The New Testament reasons with people to be saved from condemnation and receive eternal life, and here are several famous passages where heavenly glory, and how to be sure of it, is proclaimed. Here also is the urging of God’s heart of love for lost souls.
The anchor is as old as ships, but is used as an analogy in the Bible only in this verse. Scores of ‘anchors’ are used to steady and inspire life in the world. But there is only one powerful and effective for the soul and for eternity.
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.
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.
‘And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita. And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.’
Over nearly three years the disciples learned from Christ and came to love him, need him, and recognise him as divine. But for most, personal conversion came late in this period. Peter’s vital response is a model and challenge to seekers in every age.
Paul personifies sin as an emperor who conscripts us into his army and drills us in unbelief and lust to bind us in his service. Then Paul shows how we may be ‘brought out’ of our bondage to walk with the Lord God.
Christ sets out life’s options. Here is the meaning of the wide gate, through which one is carried by the crowd into purposelessness and spiritual disaster. In contrast – the narrow gate; and why it gets this description, when in fact it is the gate of enduring happiness.
‘Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.’
‘I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.’
‘When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.’
A message tracking the enthusiastic pursuit of Christ by many who wanted a materialistic, earthly return to prosperity, while He proclaimed His purpose – spiritual and eternal life to all who depend on Him as divine Saviour, and His redeeming work on Calvary.
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.
‘And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.’
‘The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’
‘And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.’
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.
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?
‘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.’
To switch political parties or to change opinions are significant acts, but nothing is as profound and permanent as conversion. Here Christ illustrates the magnitude and wonder of conversion, and how it changes many aspects of a person to make ‘a new creation’.
‘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.’
The message of the Bible has two major truths that illustrate our need of God and how to find Him. These are LAW and GRACE; the first warns, the second saves. Found throughout the Bible, here is what they mean, and what they do.
Paul esteems the cross of Christ as the greatest event in history. You might think a horrific death ending Christ’s earthly mission would be a disaster. But it was a matter of WHO died and WHY. Here are the eternal achievements secured for us on Calvary.
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 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.
When we first hear it, the analogy of humanity as a flock of sheep shocks us, and we recoil from it. But here are the unmistakeable similarities, and how Christ the Lord operates as a shepherd to gather and restore individuals to spiritual life.
‘Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.’
At first it shocks us that the Bible describes us as spiritually dead – walking dead; physically alive but inert and lifeless in the soul. But this picture shows what we lose and miss while away from God, and how our souls may be brought to life.
‘And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.’
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.’
A towering figure in world history, Moses achieved remarkable things while remaining uniquely untarnished and unspoiled by power. A turning point in life had led him to remove royal status to find life with God. Here is how this may be our experience today.
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.
‘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 see that faith is ‘receiving’ Christ, our taking hold of Him for rescue, pardon and life, because we have become convinced that He is the Saviour who has paid in suffering to secure our forgiveness, and we are lost and condemned without Him.
Even if surrounded by the might and superiority of imperial Rome, Paul cannot be intimidated, for he proclaims a message of over-towering power, that illuminates minds, transforms hearts, unites people to God and grants eternal life – this is the only message of spiritual rescue.
‘And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.’
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’.
All who have responded to the call of Christ can say with Paul, ‘We know that all things work together for good to them that love God’. Is our course of life disordered, or planned by the Lord all the way to eternal glory?
Nothing can compare with the call of Christ, made uniquely to mind, heart and will; a summons, yet an appeal, even a pleading call; inaudible and yet penetrating and drawing. Here is a call to radical change, yet requiring a response made so easy.
‘Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me. And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.’
The apostle Paul names three overwhelming experiences that come to all who seek and find the Lord. These are the chief marks of conversion. Named as power, love and a sound mind, here is the form in which they come to believers in Christ.
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.
‘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.’
‘Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.’
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.
Christ’s parable of the ‘evil’ eye portrays our inability to grasp spiritual matters. It shows that blurred spiritual vision is a wilful condition, for we do not want to know about the Lord. Here is how we may ‘see’, and find God’s forgiving love.
‘And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.’
‘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.’
Whether we live in a Christian age or in an atheistic culture, people, by nature, are unaware of the goodness and power of God if He is found and known. Here is why we are so far from Him, and how we may find Him.
‘The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all)… How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.’
‘And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?’
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.
A convert to Christ is someone who discovers the gospel (meaning the momentous news) of Christ, and the new life that He gives, and who surrenders all to Him. Here are the tremendous differences between the materialistic life and the Christian experience of life.
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.
If an encounter with God, or reconciliation, comes by faith (trust) what does this exactly involve? Here are the few things we need to understand and believe in order to approach Him, all seen in the experience of a Roman centurion who trusted in Christ.
This is the question an atheistic society will never put to you, yet it is the most important, urgent, pivotal and constructive of all possible questions. Happiness and eternal life depend on what we make of Christ. Here is the life-transforming knowledge of Him.
‘And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.’
Christ’s parable of the vineyard tenants, preached in the temple, speaks to hostile Jewish leaders, but it contains a life-saving message for us, showing the elements of our rebellion against God that must be recognised and regretted in order to approach and find Him.
Militant atheists caricature Christian belief, reducing it to something childish and abnormal. They seem unable to grasp anything of God’s being, or the necessity, scope and kindness of His love. Here is the work of Christ, and how His love may be tasted and proved.
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.
‘And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.’
We are not stirred to seek the Lord until we see ourselves as He sees us. Here are the differences between our view of ourselves and His. Here also are Christ’s own illustrations of us, our need, and how we may receive new life from Him.
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.
‘That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.’
The state of a severely affected youth healed by the Lord illustrates the serious condition of being away from God and spiritually lost. Here also is the power and kindness of Christ’s saving work, and how it operates in the lives of all who trust in Him.
The appeal of Christ to a vast assembly in the courts of the temple was – ‘If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.’ Here are the only two conditions for coming to Christ to receive life, pardon and eternal happiness.
Knowing the scriptures and experiencing the power of God go together (declared Christ). Why God’s book is vital for understanding human life and God’s plans. How it traces all the powerful acts of God to the end of time, and brings us to know Him.
The apostle’s famous words, ‘I am crucified with Christ,’ points out the greatest hindrance to reconciliation with God: the problem of self-regard. Here is how it ‘requisitions’ every part of a person to dominate life, and how Christ forgives and remakes us to walk with Himself.
‘This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.’
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.
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.
The narrative of Zacchaeus, a loathed tax-chief at Jericho, and how a germ of curiosity and inner need led him to an encounter with the Saviour that changed his entire nature and disposition. Here are the features and the effects of conversion to Christ.
At the end of His earthly life Christ spoke of His leaving a legacy to many millions of people in the history of the world. It was of infinitely greater value than anything that could be given by this present world. Here is what he gives.
Pictured here is the church in Heaven, the people who have come to God from every nation. What is this vast company like, and how did they gain access to Heaven? What is the ‘fountain’ of salvation? And why do many people never find it?
The parable of the good Samaritan exposes the self-righteousness of a hostile questioner. But it also has a fuse attached. Once Christ had died and risen again it would be obvious that the Lord depicted Himself, and how to obtain eternal life.
Paul spells out how God has made salvation possible by the atonement of Christ and the work of the Spirit in the heart. Are our minds set on material things and the ‘here and now’ or do we know Christ inseparably for life and eternity?
Christ said, “I most solemnly assure you” indicating the certainty of a conversion experience to all who hear His word, believe and respond. Here are the chief exclusive and verifiable facts taught in the Bible, and how Christ may be found personally.
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.
Most people cannot live without having opinions and views about life, and how matters should work out for them. From where do we get these views? How do we know if they are true? Will they really help? Can they connect us with God?
Christ’s parable of the unforgiving servant is partly a plea for patience and forgiveness on the part of Christians. But it is chiefly a challenge to sincere prayer rather than self-seeking prayer as the only way to reconciliation with God.
The wise men were noble scholars, priests, and philosophers from the distant East. This search for the incarnate Christ constituted a message from God about the status and future work of Mary’s child. Here is their search — and how it may be ours also, leading to God.
‘Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.’
The goodness of God is fully demonstrated in the promises He makes in the Bible. That the Creator and Sovereign God should deign to give promises to us is amazing. Here are the major promises, how Christ makes them possible, and how we receive them.
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.
It is not difficult to believe in God but to have a general kind of belief does not lead to true reconciliation with Him. ‘Saving faith’ is the vital key. Why should this be essential? What is it and how is it expressed?
We hear of ‘your truth’. Can ‘truth’ be known by viewing material facts only, and ignoring the spiritual? Christ’s words, ‘I am the Truth’ show how He presents Himself as the reason for everything, the Creator of all and the revealer of spiritual life.
The Jews of Paul’s day were intensely religious, and so were the Gentiles in their paganism. Yet neither understood nor sought to know God and His purposes. Here are the losses due to vagueness in matters of the soul, and here are the gains of finding Him.
The cross of Christ is without parallel in world history. Comprehensively prophesied, nothing has accomplished so much for countless millions of people. To be unaware of the reason of the cross of Christ is to miss the entire purpose and destiny of life.
‘And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.’
In the parable of the great supper the Lord speaks of three representative refusals to attend, each one picturing our refusal to the call of the Gospel. Why do we not respond to Christ? Here is what we miss, boxed in by the material realm.
Before conversion, we see the cross of Christ as the unfortunate end of a reformer-preacher. It has nothing to say to us. We trust human wisdom for life and happiness; we have no light on the soul. Here is the true meaning of that cross.
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?
It may seem strange that God should reveal His purpose and plan for mankind in a book. Here are the reasons why this is precisely what we should expect and how the Scripture and their message are proved to be authentic, and vital to knowing God.
‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’
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.
One human trait stand out in the Bible as the ‘master sin’, which leads to so many others and becomes more entrenched as time goes by, yet is widely promoted. But God’s immeasurable love has provided a way of escape and eternal life.
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
‘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.’
‘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.’
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.
‘Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.’ Please have God’s Word open … Continued
Paul speaks of knowing ‘the love of Christ which passeth knowledge.’ This message describes the nature of Christ’s love towards those who find and know Him – actions of affection, kindness and power unmatched in human society. Here is how it may be experienced. ‘Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, chapter 13 and verse 4, … Continued
Christ’s healing of a man born blind was a liberal act of compassion which is also intended to demonstrate the way a person may be forgiven and renewed. Here are the striking similarities between his healing and the receiving of spiritual life from the Lord.
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
Christ tells of a man with a great need who is obliged to get help from a friend already retired for the night. He obtains more than he needs, but only by his ‘importunity’, showing how we may successfully pray to God.
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in … Continued
Why do we need forgiveness? Why should we be accountable to God? What are God’s motives in requiring repentance? What is the role of Christ in reconciling people to God? How does a person seek forgiveness? Is forgiveness and reconciliation with God a verifiable experience? If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just … Continued
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
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
The deranged man of Gadara desperately sought Christ’s help, but on meeting him shouted to be left alone. His healing sparked alarm among his neighbours. Why is there such antipathy to Christ? Here is our resistance to Him, and the depths of conversion. And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over … Continued
And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, … Continued
If we have no connection with Christ we have only physical life, but no experience of spiritual life, no understanding of the purpose of life, no acceptance by God, no power to shape character, and no eternal life. Here is how Christ provides all these.
The Saviour’s first incident of raising the dead took place at Nain, as a funeral party headed to the burial place. He showed his divinity and power, his vast compassion, and his readiness to impart spiritual life to the dormant and inactive souls of men and women.
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
‘A woman called Damaris’ appears as a footnote in the biblical account as one who believed in Christ through hearing Paul’s great sermon at Mars Hill, Athens. What convinced her? Why did she from that time ‘glue’ herself to Christ and His teaching? You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: Seven Certain Signs of True ConversionSermons: The … Continued
Acts 2.32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Six Reasons Why Christ Rose From The DeadSermons: The Magnificence of Christ the Lord, The Greatness of Christ Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the … Continued
The four reasons why Christ performed so many spectacular healing miracles in His ministry, and how they illustrate His transforming work in the lives of those who come to Him. The striking message of the restoration of sight to the blind Bartimaeus begging at Jericho. You May Be Also Interested In: Sermon: Things We Have Never … Continued
In the Sermon on the Mount, Christ makes many mind-opening ‘shock’ statements, asserting the very opposite of what people expect. His opening theme is how we become Christians. Here is the frame of heart that brings us to forgiveness and spiritual life. You May Be Also Interested in… Book: The Personal Spiritual Life Sermon: The Nature of … Continued
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
‘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
There are two classes of people in the Bible, those who focus on ‘the flesh’, and those who relate to the Spirit. Here are the characteristics and goals of each, and how God can free us from the captivity of flesh to know communion with Himself.
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
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
Everyone knows that death is totally destructive, taking away everything in life. All will die, but it is not the end. Beyond this life, a day of reckoning or reception into everlasting glory. It depends on what we have done with the Saviour of Souls. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: The mystery of … Continued
When John the Baptist diverted the first two disciples to follow Christ a remarkable new process began in their lives. Here are the stages of their transformational attachment to Christ, the terms, and their experience, together with that of others who joined with them. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Christ’s Last Promises to His … Continued
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
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
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
No flesh, says Paul, will glory before God, ‘flesh’ referring to humanity alienated from God and pursuing its own objectives and desires. This statement offends human pride, but here are the reasons and the way God freely forgives, receives and reconciles individuals to Himself. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Greatest Rescue of Life, … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Christ´s Love for Souls, How Christ Calls to Our Souls And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on … Continued
Matthew’s account of his conversion could not be shorter. So little is said, but much is implied. Here are the events that led to the moment that the Gospel writer yielded his life to Christ, and how two words made all the difference. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Threefold Calling, A Unique Call … Continued
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Magnificence of Christ the Lord, Things to Give Up to Have Christ Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. (John. … Continued
What is truth? Whether the meaning and purpose of life, or the uttering of truthful words? Why do people lie, while God never does? Here is how we may be certain that God’s Word is true, with His call to seek and find Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Finding Truth and Life Paul, a … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Books: Men of purpose Sermon: Seeking The Purpose of Life, Forgetting the 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 … Continued
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 unshakeable certainty and assurance of an apostle who can say, ‘We know that we are of God.’ How? Here is the solid basis of truth of the Christian message and the quality of evidence that runs through the lives of Christian believers. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Search for Truth, Finding Truth … Continued
The Bible speaks of the deceitfulness of sin, which acts like a person within us. People do not realise how manipulative and controlling sin is. Here is the secret work of sin in every life, and how only the Lord can deal with it. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Subtlety of Sin, The … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Remembering Your Soul And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. (Luke 19:41-42) The deeper … Continued
Do not be astonished, said Christ, that the hour is coming when the dead shall hear His voice and stand before God. Here are the reasons for the unreadiness of many for God’s intervention at the end of time, and how to prepare for it. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Will Believers Pass Through … Continued
Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it. And … Continued
True freedom means liberty from all forms of fame and power. Antagonistic to our wellbeing, freedom from sin and its consequences, and all other hindrances to spiritual life and happiness. Here is why it can only come through meeting with Jesus Christ. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Sermon: True Freedom (Gospel Sermon on Luke 12.37), … Continued
The best known of all Christ’s parables (The Prodigal Son) traces the journey of a lost soul into a far country away from God, before circumstances conspire to awaken and bring the wanderer to seek reconciliation, pardon, purpose, happiness and eternal life. Here is the lovingkindness of the Lord. You May Be Also Interested in… … Continued
When a likeable rich young ruler asked Christ what he should do to gain eternal life, the Lord’s questioning uncovered massive obstacles that blocked his progress. Barriers to finding God: They are common to us all, but Christ can remove them and bring us to Himself. You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: How to … Continued
In a parable of servants waiting for their Lord, Christ portrays the human race, enslaved by endless alternatives to God, and spurning the liberty of His kingdom. Here are the futile masters we serve and the contrasting lovingkindness of the Lord in conversion to Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Only True Freedom … Continued
Why does God not make Himself more obvious? – so the question goes. Though His existence is obvious, it is obscured by mankind’s attitude to Him. Here are the reasons for our hostility and alienation, and how God ends the ‘war’ by the conversion of seekers. You May Be Also Interested in… Book: Heritage of Evidence … Continued
The ‘natural man’, says the Bible, does not receive the things of God, regarding them as foolishness. Why is this? What are the differences between ‘natural’ (unconverted) people and those who believe (converted)? How may we find forgiveness, spiritual life and purpose from God? Is it possible to gain life in the Soul? You May … Continued
And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:3) 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 … Continued
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
A brief biography of Peter, one of the first disciples, showing his calling by Christ (and partial response), then his conviction of personal sin, his realisation of Christ’s divinity and work, and the critical stage – the full dawning of faith and surrender. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: The Immeasurable, Personal Love of Christ … Continued
In a simple verse Paul pictures the captivity of a materialistic, unbelieving life in which we are unaware of God and the need for rescue. Here are the limitations and the chains that bind us, and Christ’s manner of deliverance and restoring to life. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: Christ … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: Hollow Gains Without God Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Now Jacob’s well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: … Continued
King Herod Agrippa II exclaimed “almost you persuade me to be a Christian” on hearing Paul’s testimony. What so gripped his mind and conscience? And why did he shy away? His reason may be ours also, if we recoil from faith in Christ. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Book: Nearly a … Continued
1 John 4.10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Article: The Immeasurable, Personal Love of Christ to His PeopleSermon: The Phenomenon of Love Herein is love, not that … Continued
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he … Continued
The Bible’s most famous verse mentions the astonishing scope and depth of Christ’s love in sending a member of the Godhead into our corrupted world. In what sense could God love this world? And what was it that Christ did to save lost people? You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: Experiencing God’s … Continued
‘What is your life?’ asks James, ‘it is even a vapour’. Here is material, physical life without God, its instability and brevity, its insubstantial character and its lack of merit and value for eternity. How very different it could be with the intervention of Christ the Lord. You May Be Also Interested in… Book: The … Continued
Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? (John 9:35) 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 … Continued
And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, … Continued
The biblical view of man held for centuries until recent times and very obvious to all, is that human nature is flawed, especially by pride. Here is how pride steers us, its characteristics, its consequences and how it may be pardoned and cured by Christ. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Believer’s Pride Battle, … Continued
Christ explains the militant and orchestrated presence of evil in the world, and speaks of the hold that Satan has on human souls. He also shows the love of God in providing a way of reconciliation and life for all who desire and seek Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: The Awesome GodSermon: Experiencing God’s … Continued
Christ’s healing of the man with the withered hand is amazingly descriptive of the need and healing of the soul. Here is the step-by-step illustration of the elements of conversion in the Saviour’s words: “Rise up… stand forth… stretch forth thy hand”. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: The Greatest Rescue of … Continued
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 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 you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.’ ‘Him that cometh to me I will in … Continued
The struggle for the soul, says the Bible, is like an Olympic wrestling match, yet many do not even begin the search for God, and opposing influences win the day. Here is how God enables us to come through all resistance to find His pardon and love. I have fought a good fight, I have … Continued
Just as we came into the world with nothing, so we shall leave it. When we appear as souls before our Maker, how will we be provided for? Will we have a Saviour, a pardon for all sin, and eternal life? You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Source of Eternal Life, The Concept of … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Why Did God Allow Sin And The Fall?Hymn: Come, ye sinners, poor and needySermon: The War Against Sin God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom … Continued
When the jailor of Philippi cried ‘What must I do to be saved?’, Paul replied in one word: ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ’. No works or deserving or ceremonies were required, only trust in Christ to bring about the transforming power of conversion. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Characteristics of True Believers, Why People … Continued
How influenced and conformed we are, if only we knew it, to society around us! How unoriginal, how alike – yet all that shapes us is external, while our greatest needs are within. Here Paul presents the inner transformation that conversion to God brings about. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Finding an Inner Life, … Continued
Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. (Acts 26:8-9) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we … Continued
The last thing on the mind of the Samaritan woman who encountered Christ at Jacob’s well at Sychar was her soul. Here is the Lord’s way of awakening her need and understanding for a personal walk with God, with joy and eternal life. Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How to Enter the Kingdom Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. But … Continued
No one has ever spoken like Jesus Christ. Vast crowds listened spellbound to Him, so gentle yet full of authority, so clear and yet so profound. His words to the soul have brought millions to find Him. Listen to some of His calls to human hearts. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Words of … Continued
Here are essential facts (from John the Baptist) that many people do not know about Christ. (1) He has come to earth, (2) He alone takes away sin, (3) There is no other Saviour of the world, (4) He is easy to approach. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Hymns: Alas! And … Continued
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So … Continued
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
Conversion involves a colossal change in status before God, in our eternal future, and in our character. But why do people recoil from it? Here is the answer, looking at the motives of Saul of Tarsus for rejecting conversion, and the transformation when God drew him to Himself. You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: Seven … Continued
The Bible portrays life as a turbulent sea ever threatening to draw the stricken vessel of humanity away from God and to eternal disaster. Here are the dangers to the soul, and God’s gracious call to come for refuge, relief, conversion and eternal life. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: The Holy WarSermons: Surprising … Continued
For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, … Continued
To know ‘the love of Christ which passeth knowledge’ is to soar above all that may be learned and known in this world, however sensational the experience, or whatever the field of learning may be. Here are elements of Christ’s infinite love for those who seek Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What … Continued
The conscience, originally programmed by God, operates in both Christian and pagan societies. Although damaged and weakened by sin, its underlying standards are dramatically revived in individuals by the power of the Gospel, as we see in these major biblical conversions. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Purging the Conscience Therefore seeing we have … Continued
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
With great concern and sympathy the inspired writer warns that the ‘heart’ (encompassing mind, affections, will and conscience) may be luring us into unbelief or rebellion against God. Here are the dangers, and the only remedy for the power of unseen inner prejudice against God. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Folly of Unbelief, … Continued
And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Earth or Heaven?, The Price of Heaven And he (Christ) saith unto him (Nathanael), Verily, verily, I say unto you, … Continued
The cross of Calvary is the heart of the Christian message, for without an atonement for sin there can be no reconciliation with God. Here is God’s call to us from the mysterious three hours of darkness that occurred while Christ suffered for sin. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Seven Voices of CalvarySermon: Aspects … Continued
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20) For God so loved the world, that he gave … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How To Gain Access To God Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no … Continued
Four words display the heart of Christ in redeeming souls. Here is why He could only be executed at Golgotha, why the leaders and the people supported it, why crucifixion was the only possible method of death and the unique significance of the One who died. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christ Enduring The … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Components of Faith And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, … Continued
Why the removal of guilt is vastly greater than wealth, power or fame, and how it brings about union with God. Here is the full spectrum of our need in the sight of the Lord, and the benefits that the removal of guilt unblocks. You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: Redeemed from guilt, redeemed from … Continued
The great emphasis of the Bible is that conversion to God is a free and gracious gift that cannot be earned or deserved. And yet we have hindrances that deter us from approaching Him. Here they are, and how they may be resolved. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Booklets: Seven Certain … Continued
The parable of the disappointing fruit tree portrays God the Father and God the Son considering the saving of unbelieving people. Here is the human situation from God’s point of view, and the heart of God in providing a way of salvation and life. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How God Turns Hearts, A … Continued
Christ’s disciples were astonished when the Lord asserted the impossibility of people contributing anything to be accepted into the Kingdom of God. ‘Who then can be saved?’ they cried. Here is the answer of God – the only way to obtain pardon and eternal life. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Salvation at the Dawn … Continued
Christ’s parable of two houses portrays us all as builders of a house of life. One house had no foundation, being all appearance, and lack of foresight led to tragedy. Here is the foundation of conversion to God that builds for now and eternity. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: Experiencing God’s … Continued
The care of a synagogue ruler who comes to Christ for the healing of a dying daughter illustrates the necessity of believing. Here are the reasons why belief is essential for conversion, its components and how it may come about. A message of life’s purpose. The Lord Jesus Christ said: ‘Come unto me, all ye … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Testing Ourselves for Faith, The Astonishing Mercy of God He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of … Continued
Christ’s miracle of the stilling of the tempest initially brought great fear to the disciples, because they realised as never before that He was divine. Now their minds were open to grasp His real purpose in reconciling people to God, and how He would achieve it. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is … Continued
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
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
Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of … Continued
What did Christ mean when he said ‘I am the light of the world’? Here is why he is the supreme light, and the reason for the world’s continuance, and how following him leads us to walk with God now and for ever. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is … Continued
Atheism steals the key to understanding of life, claiming there is no God, eliminating the soul and eternal life. It is unable to answer all ‘why’s?’ of life or to forge character. It is bleak, purposeless, and useless in sickness and death. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: … Continued
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
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
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
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 mystery of three seemingly keen disciples who were declined by the Lord. God does not always receive those who appear to seek Him, and here Christ shows why. Here also is the right way to desire salvation and what sincere seekers experience. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: A Seeker’s ProblemsSermon: The … Continued
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
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
Christ’s parable of the lost sheep tracks the giving of the parable to record crowds including many hostile leaders. He emphasises that God’s mercy is to individuals, showing the divine motive, our lost condition, the costly recovery of the lost, and the Saviour’s ultimate victory. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Booklet: … Continued
One of the Lord’s shortest parables tells through the story of two sons the privileges of mankind, the rejection of Almighty God, the startling regret and repentance of the most outspoken ‘rebel’, and the mercy and goodness of God toward all who seek Him. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Is … Continued
Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Troubles of Unbelief, The Folly of Unbelief And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… 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
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
Here are our three greatest mistakes about God that keep us from seeking Him, and here also are the three charges that God will bring against us if we ignore Him in our lives. Best of all, here is God’s way of forgiveness and real life. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Seeking Things … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: God, A Faithful 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. … Continued
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
Guilt for sin must be forgiven for God to be found and Heaven reached. Here are our common objections and the remedies we propose for calming and silencing any feelings of guilt. But here also is God’s salvation – the only way – leading us to Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: Redeemed from … Continued
Society today is confident that natural gifts are enough to achieve a happy and fulfilled life: God is unneccesary. But Scripture shows that there are other ‘gifts’ that must be obtained from God to make a person complete. Here are priceless things given to seekers only. You May Be Also Interested in… Book: The Personal … Continued
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
You May Be Also Interested in… More Sermons: All Gospel SermonsBook: Crook in the Lot But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed. In that day, he which … Continued
The coming of Christ into the world was unique and essential for the provision of spiritual life to needy people. But why do so many have no idea of their need of it? Here are its transforming qualities, and how it is received. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your Life, Grades of Spiritual … Continued
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
Christ’s famous words of hope to a gravely backslidden church lacking spiritual life apply to all people in need of reconciliation with God. Here is the Saviour’s famous illustration of the barrier between us and Himself, removed by trusting in Him and His saving work and atoning love. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Is … Continued
Christ’s parable of the rich fool shows a man detached from the deeper realities of life, carried along by the here-and-now, consequently forfeiting all, and surrendering his soul to judgement. Here is the love of Christ in saving both life and soul for eternity. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christ Defines Spiritual Life And … Continued
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
“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
When Christ healed the paralysed man at Bethesda’s pool, He provided a challenge that would span the centuries. Here are the stages of reconciliation with God: a hopeless scene; a listless person; Christ’s unsought initiative; a vital question; an impossible command, and a glorious outcome. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Beginning of … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: If Any Man Thirst In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living … Continued
And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Height and Depth of Salvation, The Impossibility of Earning Salvation For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made … Continued
Healing the bent-over woman in the synagogue, the Lord declares her ‘loosed’ rather than healed, showing the miracle to be a picture of our release (at conversion) from all the moral and spiritual limitations that bind us away from God. Here is true conversion. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: True Freedom, The Only True … Continued
Following the sermon on the mount, a leper runs to Christ for healing, providing a clear pattern for approaching Him for pardon and new life. Here is the faith that connects to God, how it emerges and how it is explained, leading to reconciliation with Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Milestones of Faith, … Continued
In the Lord’s parable of the ten pounds, a nobleman’s citizens cried, ‘we will not have this man to reign over us!’ Here is why, how it parallels our rejection of God (before conversion), and what makes His reign ‘over us’ so magnificent. You May Be Also Interested in… Article: The Deep Things of God, … Continued
Judgement Day is almost unmentionable in today’s society, yet it awaits us all at the end of time. Here is the motive of God’s justice, how He has made His standards known, and how Christ secures release from judgement for all who trust in Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: God’s Justice For the … Continued
The Scriptures exclusively explain the human condition, the presence of sin and suffering, and God’s way of salvation. Here is the doctrine of the Fall – the understanding of which is the door to reality and seeking for God and conversion to Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sunday School Resources: Questions and Answers about … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Remedies for Problems in PrayerBook: The Power in PrayerSermon: The Matter and Manner of Prayer And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a … Continued
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
It is a profound change of life only achievable by God, by which one is completely forgiven, enlightened, adopted into God’s family, changed in character and given an eternal inheritance. It is so unmistakable it proves the reality and power of God. Is it our experience?
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Saving Faith And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and … Continued
The scribes of Christ’s day were accomplished men, but a strange fog clouded their reaction to Him. Though amazed at His person and teaching, they refused to listen. Here is why, and how the same mental block shuts us off from God today.
You May Be Also Interested in… Book: Ourselves on the Journey to FreedomSermon: Freedom from Life’s Burdens, Real Freedom in Life Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son … Continued
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: The Lord my Shepherd is (Psalm 23) For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; … Continued
What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. (Romans 3:9-11) The deeper things of … Continued
A trick question is put to Christ by the Pharisees in the hope of discrediting Him, to persecute Him, but He confounds them with a disarming reply that imparts all we so much need to know about the kingdom of God, and how to enter it.
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
In three short sentences, designed to surprise and challenge, the Lord shows the emptiness of possessing only ‘material’ life and clinging tenaciously to it, then the vast superiority of having life in the soul. Here is what it means to follow Christ, and be eternally safe.
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?
Paul tells of how he once lived as a Jewish intellectual without concern about his condition before God. Then the day came when the commandments of God suddenly shook his conscience and led him to faith. Here is the discovery of life’s purpose.
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.
Of itself, faith has no merit or power to earn God’s favour, or to obtain life, yet it is vital to conversion. Here is what it is not, contrasted with what it is, showing what it believes and how it stretches out to receive salvation.
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.
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
And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples, And saith unto them, Go your way into the village over against you: and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; … Continued
And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the … Continued
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
The Saviour’s call to ‘ask-seek-knock’ conveys the whole message of salvation in a single illustration. Here is how to ask (with the mind) to seek (with the heart) and to knock (with the will) on the door that opens to Christ and new life.
And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter. So Paul departed from among them. Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them. (Acts 17:32-34) … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: Awake, our souls; away, our fearsSermon: A Necessary Fear Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. And he would not for … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Free Gift of SalvationBook: Steps Towards heaven For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of … Continued
Paul’s appeal to the Galatians – shrewd independent thinkers – not to be entranced by the ancient heresy of salvation by works. How easily we, though able thinkers, succumb to the poor arguments of unbelief today! Here are the issues that should lead us to find the Lord.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Peace and ReconciliationBook: Reconciliation And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed … Continued
The moral law of God is an act of great kindness, intended to give order to the human race and to show how far short of God’s standards we fall, and how greatly we need free forgiveness. Here is how we receive grace from God.
Using a military analogy, Paul compares waking from soul-sleep to soldiers being roused to defend against an attack. Here are spiritual realities unseen while we live with no thought of God. Here is the new life that dawns with finding Him.
In two miniature parables, Christ shows the necessity of taking stock of life to avoid the loss of spiritual life and blessing. Here is the building of a tower that could not be completed, and the fighting of a war that could not be won.
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs … Continued
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.
The Bible asserts there is one mediator between God and man. Why is a mediator necessary? Why is there only one? Why cannot people reconcile themselves with God? Why must God do this Himself? Do other religions offer a mediator? What does a mediator achieve for us?
This is the occasion Christ called the multitudes around Him to make a momentous statement of principle. It was a matter on which Israel’s ‘clergy’ had misled them – what defiles people to keep them out of Heaven? Here is the Lord’s answer, and the only remedy.
Christ calls us to think about what life should really accomplish and the central importance of the soul. They show how much we need God’s words for the soul to live, and the tragedy of devoting our entire lives to this material life and losing Heaven.
It is amazing that Jesus Christ the Son of God, who entered into the world, should describe Himself as the ‘bread of life’. Here is why He came in humble form, what He did to atone for sinners, and how we come to Him.
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
If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so … Continued
As Christ hung on the cross in agony of body and soul, making atonement for all who are saved, a criminal executed alongside Him began to see Him in a new light, and yielded his life to Him. Here is that ‘model’ conversion, and what was involved.
Why were the philosophers of Athens so eager to hear Paul? What were their beliefs? How did he go about showing their emptiness of thought and their need of Christ, and what were their various reactions? How closely their ideas of God reflect those of today!
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.
Christ’s most famous call to souls, showing who He is who calls, why He does so, what He calls us from, why we should listen, who will respond, and what He will do for us – illustrated with examples of those who have responded and found Him.
The Bible describes the necessity of conversion to God. In this verse it is presented as something radical, sudden, a complete event accomplished in an instant by God, and not by us. Here are the great features, and how we may come to it.
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.
Here is Paul magnificently explaining first, how not to gain the ear of God, and then how to do so – by understanding how He saves the soul and changes the life; also how to approach Him. This is the way to find and know Him.
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 most jarring aspect of the Bible’s message is that people, however accomplished and praised, have no claim to be approved by God if they have no relationship with Him. Human pride is offended, but here are God’s reasons and His terms for acceptance.
Paul gives a unique definition of conversion as the entry of Christ into a life, and here is the explanation of what this means, how Christ’s work in us is carried out, and how we are changed and enriched for life and eternity.
After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the … Continued
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.
The apostle Paul was converted from a career as a persecutor of Christians to being a tireless missionary to the Gentiles. Here he describes the viewpoint of God as He considers rebellious mankind. This is Paul’s magnificent survey of our need, and Christ’s kindness to save.
And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you? They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory. But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of … Continued
“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.
And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand? (Revelation 6:16-17) The deeper things of life are so easily … Continued
Here is the whole Bible in one verse, showing the great division in society; also that unbelief must have consequences; then – the meaning of sin, the true meaning of death, the extraordinary gift of God, and the price paid by the Giver.
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.
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.
The reality of the state of war between all people and God before conversion. The full consequences of war throughout life, and its futility. Then the multiple benefits of peace on reconciliation, how it is achieved, and how we may be certain of it.
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.
After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne … Continued
Christ’s parable of the pounds had a message for His Jewish hearers, plus an ongoing one to the people of all times, namely that everyone has an awareness or instinct of God and should invest it by seeking to find Him and know Him.
Undoubtedly there are attractive-sounding benefits from rejecting God and investing in life without any spiritual concerns, and here are some of these. But see the weighty losses and the burdens, and also the compassion of Christ for human ‘sheep not having a shepherd’.
Sin is the impassable barrier between God and men, which must be removed and forgiven before reconciliation. Repentance is not enough. There must also be faith. Here is why, what faith must be in, and why alternatives are disastrous.
The short parables of the treasure hidden in a field and the pearl of great price proclaim the discovery of Christ, salvation and His superiority over everything else sought after on earth. Here is the person and work of Christ, and the experience of finding Him.
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.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (James 1:17-18) The deeper things … Continued
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.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of … Continued
And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a … Continued
Mankind has been enabled by the Creator to accomplish many things, but without Christ we cannot see, taste or know spiritual realities, overcome flaws and sins, be reconciled with God, know deep purpose and happiness, or have eternal life. Here is how we find Christ.
The doubts some people had about Christ (when on earth) mirror our doubts today. Here are the Lord’s own answers to people then, answers that resolve our misunderstandings in modern times, showing the reality of the faith, and the necessity of finding and knowing God.
The Roman military commander of Capernaum gradually sees he is unfit for God, and grasps the soul-saving purpose of Christ. He gives up the six beliefs of all who hope that their works will gain God’s favour, and embraces free forgiveness by grace.
And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are … Continued
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
A short parable of Christ about a failing fig tree, illustrating the Saviour’s lovingkindness and mercy in redeeming and transforming worthless and dying souls. Here is the privileged uniqueness of humankind, tragically alienated from God, and the way from meaninglessness to union with the Lord.
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
So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum. When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judaea into Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would come down, and heal his son: for … Continued
Christ’s parable illustrated spiritual truths marvellously, riveting minds, but they required thought, or the meaning would remain obscure. Here are the motives that would lead hearers to the meaning (both then and now) and to obtaining pardon and new life from Christ the Saviour.
The parable of the sower reveals four different reactions to spiritual matters, in particular – to the good news of pardon and life from Christ. What influences our response against our deepest and eternal interests? Christ tells us how we may change.
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
The basis of salvation taught throughout the Bible and down the centuries by Christian preachers is the doctrine of justification by faith alone. Here is the meaning of this greatest message of love, and why there can be no other way of meeting God.
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.
Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide … Continued
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of … Continued
Conversion to Christ may take place in a moment, but more often we discover what it means to find Him by stages. Here is the experience of Simon Peter, tracing his phases of reluctance up to the great moment of genuine faith.
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
Christ’s miniature parable of the ‘evil eye’ uses seeing disorders to illustrate our inability to see the spiritual purpose of life, our predicament before God, and our need of forgiveness and reconciliation. Here is God’s provision for us, and the way to know Him.
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.
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
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.
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 tragedy of human pride, affecting everyone, is here probed. God, the Bible says, arranges Himself in battle against the proud. Why is it so abhorrent to God? What are its forms and manifestations? How may we push through it to seek and find Him?
‘In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour.’ Full chapter _____________ Titus 1 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according … Continued
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.
Preachers down the centuries have identified the problem of self-righteousness as the greatest barrier to seeking Christ and salvation. Here is the evidence for its near universal hold on the hearts and minds of people, and how it is only cured by faith in Christ.
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.
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?
Being ‘born again’ is a greatly debased term today through light usage, but it is vital to genuine conversion and spiritual life. Here is how Christ’s term brings to life what happens when people come to Christ, what it feels like and what it leads to.
Christ the Saviour was pleading with people to see their need of true conversion when He spoke of many who assumed they were bound for heaven, who would in fact be shut out. Here is why, and what we must do to enter eternal life.
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken … Continued
Christ’s parable of a crooked estate manager is about making arrangements for life and eternity. How stable are our riches and accomplishments? How useful are our contacts and friends in terms of eternal influence? Here are the real riches of life that only the Saviour gives.
Unbelief in the Gospel is described in the Bible as wilful and deeply damaging to us, whereas modern thought says it is reasonable critical thinking. Here is the Bible’s analysis of its cause and course, and how its cure is the greatest imaginable benefit.
The feeding by Christ of 5000 men plus women and children on the north-eastern shore of Galilee was one of the most significant of all His ‘teaching miracles’. Here is what it said to the people, and to us, about our need for conversion to Christ
Why do Christ and numerous Bible passages insist on believing as the only way to approach God and experience conversion to Him? Why not actions or works or ceremonies? Here is what is unique and vital about believing, and what one must believe.
Our greatest needs in life are light and understanding about the reason for our being, an explanation of the state of the world, and how we may relate to God and have a future life. Finding Christ is the solution, and knowing His power.
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and … Continued
In giving sight to a blind man at Bethsaida the Lord (unusually) healed in two stages, providing a lesson of hope for seekers who have seen through the world and begin to feel their need of forgiveness. Soon the full experience of conversion will follow.
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 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.
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.
But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons … Continued
– 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.
Paul’s racing analysis of the human condition before God – the extent of our spiritual lifelessness and its consequences, set alongside the astonishing power and love of Christ in the conversion of innumerable individuals, and their new lives. Here is conversion – truly a raising from the dead.
Simon Peter was overwhelmed on first meeting Christ, but although he became a follower, he was not immediately converted. Here are the key stages in his experience which have helped seekers over many centuries. His discoveries may help us to trust Christ for salvation.
And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they … Continued
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.
We track the events of an astounding chapter that sees many disciples turn away from Christ. It was the opposite of what usually happened. They found Christ’s statements about eternal life unpalatable. Why? The answer moves us to take seriously the needs of the soul.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, … Continued
And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not. All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that … Continued
Paul here names three elements of conversion to Christ: ‘Power’, describing the great change of life; ‘love’, describing all that Christ has done to secure pardon for us; and ‘a sound mind’, describing the clear view of God, of life and of eternity that conversion brings.
Paul outlines the teaching that runs through the Bible about Heaven, showing the way to be accepted by God and also the way God confirms to those who believe in Him that they possess everlasting life. There is surely no greater knowledge than this.
And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. … Continued
In the parable of the great supper an invited guest declines to attend, implying he has better things to do. Here the Lord reasons with His hearers about their supreme need of God, and the consequences of being confined to a life of materialism.
Paul’s analogy of war shows our state before God. We are enlisted in a war against Him, using faculties and powers as weapons. It is a moral war, a rebellion, in which we will fall. Here is the possibility of amnesty and reconciliation.
But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. (Galatians 6:14-15) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded … Continued
The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; (Matthew 1:1-2) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the needs of the … Continued
What is Christ really like? How does He compare with the mighty of this world? What is it like to meet Him in prayer? How do Christian believers ‘prove’ Him and know Him? Is it mere hope and imagination? Here are answers, and the terms.
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every … Continued
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (Matthew 7:13-14) The deeper things … Continued
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.
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.
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.
Our pride instinctively recoils from being depicted in the Bible as sheep, but it is a profound and challenging depiction that enables us to see the depth of our spiritual need, and the costly and glorious work of Christ, the shepherd of lost souls.
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
Many people do not know how the cross of Christ can give new spiritual life and reconcile them with God. Yet the cross of Christ stands infinitely higher than every other event of history in its kindness, power, enduring effect and costliness to God. Here is how.
At 40, Moses was a famous prince of Egypt, accomplished, admired and probably heading for the crown. But he left it all, preferring obedience to the one true God. Here are the factors which cause countless people down the centuries to take the same pathway.
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.
A terribly sick woman who had haemorrhaged for twelve years crept up behind the Saviour in a crowd and touched the hem of His garment. The purpose of this healing miracle was to portray how faith secures God’s healing of the soul and eternal life.
When a Canaanite woman in great need pleaded for Christ’s help, she was (seemingly) rebuffed. But the Lord was turning the encounter into a lesson in prayer. Here are the ten factors that made her prayer (and her prayers for salvation) acceptable to 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
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.
Everyone, whether aware of it or not, is searching for fulfilment and happiness, and here are the forms this search takes. But the true needs of the heart can only be met by finding God. Here is the real search, and how to make it.
The Bible speaks of a spiritual and moral gulf between God and mankind which can only be bridged by a mediator, Who must be divine as well as man. Here is the record of Jesus Christ and what He has accomplished to be our Saviour.
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
When the apostle Paul preached to the gathered leaders of many Jewish Synagogues in Rome, about half truly believed in Christ, but others did not. But why did half respond and others reject? The answers help us to examine our own response to Christ.
When Christ called the first disciples, He asked three things of them. They must first see their need of Him. Then secondly, accept the changed life He gives and thirdly yield their lives to follow Him. Here is how they came to see Him as God and Saviour, and respond.
There are really only two forms of religion: one where you only know about God (or ‘gods’) and the other where you know Him in an unmistakable personal way. Here are Christ’s words about His ‘friends’, how this comes about, and what it is like.
And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of … Continued
The good Samaritan is perhaps the best known and least understood parable of Christ. It has an ethical message plus a parallel message which became obvious once Christ was crucified. He was the ‘Samaritan’ who tends those dying eternally from the wounds of sin.
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?
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.
The hindrance identified in the Bible is the inner reservoir of self-regard, the great ‘I’, that interferes with all taste, desires, aims, decisions and actions. Here is what we do not see of God, and here also is the transformation that conversion brings.
Most people, even if they barely believe in God, feel they would pass any test for acceptance by Him. Here Christ, in a parable, shows what Heaven’s terms really are, how we should see ourselves, and God’s readiness to forgive those who own their unworthiness.
The 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.
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: (Colossians 1:13-14) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the … Continued
The paralysed man famously lowered through the roof into the place where Christ was teaching was not only healed but forgiven all his sins. This deeply significant miracle pictures the paralysis of the soul, and how life and a new experience comes by conversion to Christ.
Christ’s parable of the rich fool who preserved his riches but neglected his soul, is a truly sympathetic way of showing us how we plan and act when away from God. Here is how we think, and its cost, unless conversion to Christ intervenes.
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.
Perhaps the best known of the Lord’s parables is the prodigal son, but most people do not realise how closely it portrays the life-course of us all when we forget the soul, and also when we seek and find Christ in a personal way.
Christ’s own call to consider the needs of the soul, to see our spiritual predicament and our need of Him. Here are the reasons why we lock the door of the heart against Him and resist every divine approach, and here is the momentous experience of yielding to Him.
The Bible is a book of promises. They are the overtures of God to our souls, pointing the way out of alienation from Him and a spiritual living death, and urging us to something infinitely better. Here are God’s promises and how He keeps them.
Many think that Christianity gives a narrow, restricted view of life, when it is a materialistic outlook that imposes a limiting cage. Here is the vastly wider view that comes from listening to God’s Word, and what it means to know and prove Him.
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.
All the healings of Christ serve to portray spiritual conversion, one of the most stirring being the healing of a demonised and epileptic youth in the Caesarea Philippi area. Here are the equivalent spiritual and moral afflictions found in all of us, only healed by conversion.
The Bible portrays the human problem as a rebellion or war against God, with all the consequences of war picturing the trouble in our lives. Christ is the Saviour who gives peace (reconciliation) with all its benefits, and who rebuilds lives. Here is how.
Christ’s parable of the unforgiving debtor gives a remarkable picture of all human life, including our debt to God. If fear or need drives us to pray to Him, will our appeal be sincere or shallow? This parable answers, and teaches us to seek Him.
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.
Even scientists do not always consider how much of the human condition cannot be explained by scientific knowledge, including vast matters such as consciousness. Here are evidences for God, including aspects of Christian conversion that can only come about if God is at work in the soul.
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
Atheism, of course, has no conception of the power and purposes of God. Here, by contrast, is proof of the unique nature and infallibility of the Scriptures and the revelation of God’s purposes for us. Here is the power that comes by hearing Him.
Why do we believe the things we do, that drive our lives and shape our tastes and decisions? Who gave us our views? Can their truth be tested? Here are today’s typical ‘values’, compared with the rule given by Christ for building a life for now and eternity.
So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, … Continued
The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. (John 1:29) 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 next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. (John 1:29) 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
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17) 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
Countless people put no value on their soul. They feel no need of help for either this life or eternity. Here, through an unusual parable, Christ shows His availability to seekers for spiritual life, how they must approach Him, and what He will do for them.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:8-10) The deeper things … Continued
The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. (2 Peter … Continued
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.
Paul’s famous words reveal the greatest human need and God’s astounding remedy in drawing countless individual people to Himself. Here is the Bible’s view of the plight of man and Christ’s redeeming work, in a single life-changing chapter.
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (Colossians 2:14-15) The deeper things of life are so easily … Continued
It is amazing to possess conscious life and feeling; to perceive, to reason, and to enjoy family and social companionship. But what about spiritual life? Why should the soul be dormant and inactive? Here is the reason, and how Christ gives complete life by conversion to Himself.
The great question posed and answered by James, half-brother of the Lord Jesus Christ, illustrates life as a vapour, so brief, inconsequential, unstable, and insubstantial, with other deficiencies here unfolded. But the opposite characteristics fill our lives when we come to Christ.
Christ’s literal healing of a man born blind was intended to picture the healing of spiritual blindness. Here are the things we do not see in life, in ourselves, in God, or in the future. Only God’s Word gives understanding of life and conversion.
Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (Galatians 1:3-5) The deeper things of … Continued
For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to … Continued
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.
The existence of the conscience has invincible proof, but much modern thinking hates and rejects it, claiming it is merely a remnant of brainwashing. Certainly it may cause much trouble, even illness, but here is God’s way for the conscience to be cleansed.
Christ’s healing of ten lepers not only illustrate the spiritual life He gives to countless people living far from God, but shows that our perception of ‘need’ is limited to earthly, material things. Here is why we must see beyond these, to the needs of the soul.
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.
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.
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to … Continued
A half deranged outcast man is put into his right mind and transformed as a person at the word of Christ. Here are the elements of conversion that are intended to be traced from the event, and how much is accomplished in our lives.
The 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.
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.
In striking symbolic language, John shows a new heavenly realm prepared for the eternal future of all who find the Lord while on earth, providing insights into that astounding realm, and speaking of the terms of entry, at the end of life’s journey.
The sad scene of a widow’s only son lying dead led to the son being raised to life through Christ’s compassion. The event is intended also to picture spiritual death and all it deprives us of, and how we can receive spiritual life from the Saviour.
Human pride, perhaps, is the greatest snare, having many forms, immense subtlety, and bringing upon us the opposition and indignation of God. Here are its main injuries to life and soul, and the only way to end its dominance, by the power of God.
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John. 14:6) 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 … Continued
Atheists claim Christianity uses hell to scare people into believing. But it would be amazingly callous not to mention Christ’s teaching on judgement, so that people never knew their situation. The aim is not fear, but openness to consider the love and mercy of God.
Every statement in Christ’s sermon on the mount is a calculated surprise, even a shock, as He shows how we need to have God’s forgiveness and new life. Here is His call to be aware of our need, and to seek Him.
The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. John did … Continued
The name of Damaris has been preserved for centuries in every language through the Bible, yet nothing is known of this obscure lady except Paul’s sermon that brought her to believe. Here is how she became known to God, and how we may be also.
Here is what makes the message of Christ so foolish in the eyes of the world, and why, despite its simplicity, it is really the wisest, most profound, and most effective message for the deepest human needs, in its diagnosis, remedy and outcome.
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.
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
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.
The Bible speaks of an appointment that all will keep, when we shall stand before God to give account for our lives. Here is the role of memory (largely submerged now) that is revived for that decisive day. Here also is Christ’s way of deliverance.
And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. (Acts 16:14) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we … Continued
‘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.
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.
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.
When Christ came the Jewish leaders wanted His mighty miracles on their side, without His message of conversion. But He insisted on the great change of life He gives to needy souls. Here is how He described it, and what it achieves in us.
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
A blind beggar of Jericho called out to Christ for healing and was rewarded. But this was more than a miracle. It was a demonstration of what Christ would do for billions who cry out for spiritual sight, forgiveness and life. Here is how these are obtained.
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. (Romans 1:16) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for the … Continued
We do not need much faith to know that God is there. The Bible teaches that unbelief is inexcusable because the evidence of God’s creative power is overwhelming. But faith is vital for salvation, and here are the reasons, and the way to find The Lord.
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?
Three days before execution, Christ spoke of His return and the judgement of all, using the sheep and goats analogy to describe all people. Here is how God views us, and how we may be prepared and safe for the coming great day.
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.
‘The Truth’ is greater than the total of all the facts in the world, reaching beyond material things to the purpose of life. Christ’s declaration that He is ‘ The Truth’ makes Him the reason for the world’s existence, and the key to finding God.
The old view that human nature is influenced by sin-tendencies, and in need of regular cleansing and servicing has been thrown out, so that few take note of what drives them. Here is God’s book on the subject of pride, its stealth, power, and only cure.
Conversion to Christ is entirely by grace, or free, yet coming to Him involves leaving several things behind, and here are those things. The Lord’s encounter with a very rich young ruler, whose search for eternal life was aborted, shows what our approach must be.
It may seem open-minded and non-judgemental to be vague about God and spiritual matters, but here are some of the things vagueness will forfeit and miss. Many are surprising, and all have lifelong consequences. Here are the benefits of following Christ.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. (John 5:24) The deeper things of life are so easily crowded out today. Here at the Metropolitan Tabernacle we cater for … Continued
Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (John 3:3) 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 … Continued
And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis. And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech him to put his hand upon him. (Mark 7:31-32) The deeper … Continued
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. (Matthew 22:37) 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 … 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
Wandering far from God we may be entirely ‘at peace’, having no spiritual interest or troubles of conscience, even dismissing God with scorn. But here is the basis of this peace, what happens when it is broken, and how real peace with God may be found.
In the Bible, the ‘natural’ person is incomplete, lacking spiritual life and experience. By contrast, the ‘spiritual’ person has heard the call of Christ, and obtained from Him an understanding of life’s spiritual and eternal context, and a personal relationship with God. Here is how.
