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?
‘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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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
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
Zec 13:6 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. You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: There is a fountain filled with blood Sermon: Fruits of Calvary
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
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
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
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me. v9 And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. v10 Make the heart of this people … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: The Magnificence of Christ the Lord, Things to Give Up to Have Christ
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Books: Men of purpose Sermon: Seeking The Purpose of Life, Forgetting the Purpose of Life
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
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
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Why is Conversion a Narrow Gate?
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Who is in God’s Kingdom?
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Our Thoughts Compared with God’s
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
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: Resisting the Lord
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Is Your Soul Dead or Alive?, How Christ Heals the Soul
You May Be Also Interested in… Article: Spiritual JoySermon: Facts About Joy
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 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. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Experiencing God’s … 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
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
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. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Knowing Our Inner Person, External or … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How to Enter the Kingdom
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: The Greatest Rescue of Life
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermons: Why Faith is Paramount, False and Genuine Faith Compared
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
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
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Putting Self Last
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How To Gain Access To God
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
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. You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermons: … Continued
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Testing Ourselves for Faith, The Astonishing Mercy of God
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: The End of Self
You May Be Also Interested in… Series of Studies: Wisdom for LifeSermon: Wisdom or Folly?
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life?
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: The Troubles of Unbelief
Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: What is life? Sermon: Before Jehovah’s awesome throneBook: Great God of Wonders
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. Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Essence … 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
Full Service Recordings: You May Be Also Interested in… Article: True Repentance for BelieversSermon: The Beauty of Repentance
Full Service Recordings
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Salvation at the Dawn of History
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
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
You May Be Also Interested in… More Sermons: All Gospel SermonsBook: Crook in the Lot
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Book: The PromiseSermon: God Keeps His Promises
“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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christian RighteousnessHymn: Come, ye sinners, poor and needy
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Height and Depth of Salvation, The Impossibility of Earning Salvation
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
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your Life, Walking In and For LightHymn: The Lord my Saviour is my light (Psalm 27)
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
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
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)
Rom 3:9 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; v10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: v11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. v12 They are all gone … 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
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
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Soul’s Final Triumph, The Triumphant Life
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Final Shock of History
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Abundant Pardon for Seekers
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Gospel ProvedSeries of Sermons: The Gospel of John
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: Awake, our souls; away, our fearsSermon: A Necessary Fear
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Free Gift of SalvationBook: Steps Towards heaven
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
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: How to Choose by Faith
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your LifeBook: The Life of Faith
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Resurrection at the End of Time, Resurrection PowerBook: The Resurrection of Jesus
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Riches of Truth, The Riches and Power of the Blood of Christ
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: To Whom Shall We Go?Hymn: How shall I praise the eternal God?Book: A Seeker’s Problems
“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.
You May Be Also Interested in… All Gospel Sermons
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Door to Real LifeBook: Probing Heaven
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.
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: David Sees Messiah’s ReignBook: Jesus, Divine Messiah
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: God’s Contention with ManBook: The Godly Man’s Picture
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Peace comes from Righteousness, The Breastplate of RighteousnessBook: The Grace of Christ
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: God Describes Human Need, The Universal Human QuestBook: The Quest for the Historical Adam: Genesis, Hermeneutics, and Human Origins
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: A View of the HeartBooklet: A Seeker’s ProblemsBook: The Fullness of Christ
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Chief Barrier To Believing in GodBook: Faith’s Reasons for Believing
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christ Advises SeekersBook: Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Height and Depth of Salvation
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your LifeHymn: The Son of God, in mighty love
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Using the Bible’s Anchor TextsBook: Compassion for Souls
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.
Isaiah 45:22 Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your LifeHymn: Look upon me, O Lord, forgive (Psalm 51)Book: A Seeker’s Problems
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?
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Conquered by GraceHymn: Amazing grace! how sweet the soundBook: All of Grace
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The Only MediatorBook: Last Words of Saints and Sinners
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The One Mediator for SinnersBook: The Glory of Christ
– 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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: A Sight of the Wrath and Mercy of GodBook: Majesty in Misery Vol.1
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.
Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: The God of All GraceBook: Wonders of Grace
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Christ’s Last Promises to His DisciplesBook: The Promise
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.
You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Valuing your LifeBook: Comfort in Sickness and Death
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: A Unique Call From GodBook: The … 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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‘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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Proven facts about the reliability of the Bible, verifying its unique, inspired character. Why believing in Christ is the only way of escaping humiliation at the end of life’s journey. How an unmistakable experience of God’s forgiveness and presence may be obtained.
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Before conversion, we do not realise how out of touch with God we are; how little we know about Him, and how unable we are to even address Him. This healing miracle by Christ teaches how channels of communication are opened by His loving kindness.
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Why should we believe the compassionate call of Christ to all souls? After 2000 years, how may we be sure that He is the Lord of life and the Saviour of souls? Here are the credentials of our Maker, the Son of God, Who came to save.
King Solomon long ago named the six main false ideas about the human race and its viability without the need of God. These are still the basis of confident unbelief, even though repeatedly proved mistaken. Here is how knowing Christ solves everything.
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The title mirrors words of Christ to a spiritually confused person. If only we knew about God, and ourselves, and what Christ has done for us! Here are samples of present day unawareness of eternal realities, and how these may be proved.
Here are the circumstances that prepare us to open our minds to God, creating a sense of need, a willingness to learn, and a desire to be reconciled with Him. Here also Christ describes the means of finding Him and the experience of all who do.
According to the Bible, death is every person’s greatest enemy, and is personified as a seemingly invincible ruler over us. But Christ is the opposite of death, and here the help He offers us is compared with the hostile activities of death. To whom will we yield?
The Bible teaches that before conversion to God we are like prisoners, except that we do not know it. We need to experience the freedom, reality and fulfilment that comes with the pardon of God. Here is the biblical picture of our ‘captivity’ and the way out.
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Christ’s parable of the rented vineyard was intended to illustrate how we grasp life for ourselves and resist all the overtures of God. The parallels are clear and challenging, showing the length to which Christ has gone to save lives for eternity.
Everyone, though we may deny it, esteems, worships and obeys a variety of ‘forces’ and people, becoming shaped by them. The need to admire and submit is inescapable. Here is God’s remedy for misplaced servility, and the vast superiority of yielding to Him alone.
Booklet: How to Seek and Find the LordSermon: Finding Truth and Life, Christ’s Direction For Finding Him
God’s own campaign for our souls, and His statement of the human problem of unbelief and detachment from Him. Here, through Isaiah, is God’s reasoned call to us, with what He must do if we refuse, and His amazing kindness if we respond.
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Conversion occurs when God’s call suddenly cuts and pierces the heart as never before. It so often comes when a preacher, without histrionics, presents the needs of the soul. Here is the first sermon of the Christian church, that had this effect on thousands.
Most people are surprised – even shocked – when they hear these four vital facts of the Christian faith. Yet these have been the means of drawing vast numbers to seek Christ since He came to earth. Here is how John the Baptist introduced the Saviour
A prophet of old denounced his generation for shutting their ears to the voice of God, rejecting His call, and refusing to approach Him for help. Here are the steps that lead to a sure discovery of Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
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Many only ever approach God over emergencies, but not to find Him or to have Him as their God. Others approach Him in a way He has already said in the Bible is unacceptable to Him. King David shows the way, and here is his effective approach.
Christ taught that the Commandments would never change and would be the standards for the Day of Judgement. This summary shows their unique positive benefits in life. Also, how Christ by His atoning death, purchased pardon and life for all who believe.
The preaching of Paul in Philippi led to his jailing and to the conversion of the hostile jailer, providing a model of how God turns people from spiritual lifelessness and even antagonism to himself, bringing them to a burning awareness of their need of His pardon and power.
In teaching the afterlife, Christ speaks of ‘seeing’ death, which includes tasting it. He describes the most terrible experience conceivable, leading to judgement. But those, He says, who believe His message will never see it. Here is how He is able to deliver believers.
David provides eight reasons why we commit personal sin, then sets out the magnitude of God’s mercy, His promises of pardon and life, His soaring unchangeable standards, His provisions of help, and the precious thing He gives to those who trust Him.
Before vast crowds from many lands disperse from Jerusalem after the Feast of Tabernacles, Christ stands in the Temple to give a stirring appeal that will be spread afar. Here is His passionate call to draw people to know and walk with Him.
The parable of the fig tree – one of the shortest – illustrates Christ’s timetable for human history, and also the way He works in the lives of all who seek and find Him. Here is life in the soul, reconciliation with God and eternal life.
The apostle Paul describes the losses incurred from being without Christ, without heavenly citizenship, without forgiveness, without eternal hope, and without God’s blessing in this life also. Here also are the overwhelming gains of having Christ and proving His power.
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The quest for safety, success and satisfaction is the story of life, but are they spasmodic or delusory? And do we seek them only in the material realm? Here is the reality of our spiritual needs and standing before God, and how we may know Him.
Many strive for liberty from laws, daily toil and even the thought of God; but Jesus Christ said there is one true freedom – release from the power and condemnation of sin. All other freedoms bring their own bonds, but pardon and spiritual life give unsurpassed peace and strength.
Christ, in great sympathy, dissuades a multitude from toiling primarily for earthly satisfaction which fails and perishes, to seek as first priority the spiritual life that He gives freely, that expands into everlasting experience. Here is what He gives, and how He imparts it.
Biblical facts about the soul and life after death. Here also – facts about our alienation from God, our future judgement, why God would allow it, and what He has done, at great cost, to save us from it. Here is the kindness and power of God to all who trust in Christ.
The call from spiritual aimlessness and emptiness to Christ, who gives new life to those who respond. Who is He? Why should I listen? What does He give? Why does He offer this? How does it come? What is the outcome of refusing Him?
Almost the last words of Christ – ‘It is finished’ – refer chiefly to the tornado of punishment taken on Calvary’s cross on our behalf. Here is what He ‘finished’ for us, such as fear of death and eternal loss. With Christ, our life will never finish.
Just as Christ warned the multitudes to beware of false teachers, we must make known the fallacies of non-Christian world-views which increasingly shape lives today. Are they a fit foundation for life and eternity? Here is the way of Christ and the Bible.
Life’s end point challenges all our values and goals. Is there a ‘next world’? Here are the indications. Also, God’s amazing description of Himself, our alienation from Him, and how we may be reconciled to be sure of safe passage on the ultimate day of life.
True religion is a meeting with God, but how and where and on what terms? What does God require from us? In a society that suppresses all thought and knowledge of God, here is the teaching of Christ about how He may be found.
When a wealthy man had to choose between riches and Christ, he chose riches, demonstrating the hold that this material life has on the human heart. But God has transformed every conceivable kind of earth-tied person down the centuries, and here is how.
People often do not realise how much is accomplished if God forgives their sins. Here are the facts of guilt and forgiveness – what cannot secure forgiveness, and what does. Here also are the gains and benefits (and the cost to God Himself).
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Isaiah’s remarkable prophecy of Christ on the cross – written 700 years beforehand – describes 30 different things that were perfectly fulfilled. Here are some of them, all proving that Christ is the Son of God and Saviour of all who trust in Him.
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The battle for the soul is the most vital because it determines life and eternity. Here are the earthly battles we prefer to fight to get personal gains, and the fight we put up against God, Who would give us free life and glory if we asked.
Christ’s statement that without Him people can accomplish nothing refers first to spiritual things, but also to all of life. How limited is mankind! Here are just the main shortcomings, the missing factor that causes them, and the difference that it makes to know Christ.
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King Agrippa said, in effect, to Paul, ‘You will make me a Christian any moment now’. Here are the differences between knowledge of the Faith, and real experience of God’s saving power; also, why we may pull back from yielding to God, and how to resolve this.
With seemingly unending wars, terrorism, increasingly destructive weapons and moral collapse, Christ’s teachings about the end of the age are uniquely accurate. Here are His words on how the present age will end and how we may find Him now, and be His at the final account.
Another group of compelling and intriguing illustrations from Solomon showing how we appear to God when we live without desiring or seeking Him. Here too, are God’s persuasive appeals to wanderers to approach Him, and to discover His life-changing power and companionship.
Miniature parables or illustrations (from King Solomon) showing our condition when we try to live without God, and why we need Him. Here also are life’s spiritual dangers – what we lose without God, and what is gained when we come to Him for new life.
Three seekers, one a scribe, another a regular observer of Christ, desire to become full disciples, but something is wrong. All have some reservation or hesitation. Christ shows each one what prevents him from wholehearted ‘conversion’. It is priceless counsel for seekers in every age.
Reasons why we reject God, and what unbelief takes from us. How atheism shapes us, imparting distinctive characteristics of thought and action. Proof that it is itself a religion. The contrasting benefits of believing in God, and how He may be found and known.
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: How shall I praise the eternal God? Sermon: Words of Eternal Life
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: How shall I praise the eternal God? Sermon: Words of Eternal LifeBook: The Life of Faith
Christ’s healing of the man with a withered hand was one of the smallest of His miracles, yet an immensely important picture of the non-functioning soul, and its needs. Here is His enacted message to draw people to Himself for spiritual life and salvation.
What the Bible says about God’s infinite knowledge is both surprising and humbling. His knowledge of us is particularly moving, for it is a longsuffering and concerned knowledge that has provided a way of forgiveness and life to countless people who see their need of it.
A young man sees for the first time divine realities. The testimony of Elisha’s servant speaks to young people today. Here are the unseen factors about every person’s spiritual condition. Here also is God’s solution and the experience of seeing and embracing it.
There was never a teacher like Christ. No one has ever been so understandable, and yet so profound and compelling. Here are examples of the unique superiority of His message and style. Everything He said has come to pass. Why trust your life (and soul) to others?
The Saviour’s illustration of grain being sown to bring about a crop describes His atoning death on Calvary. It also pictures the laying down of a seeker’s old life so that he may be given a new life by God. Here is how we must approach Him.
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: How shall I praise the eternal God? Video Tract: The mystery of deathBook: Works of John Owen
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Christ’s teaching on the end of the world and what will happen to us all in the last judgement. We learn in scripture of mankind being divided into two vast groups – believers in Christ and unbelievers. Here is how we may be counted among those who have eternal life.
The mountains of Jerusalem, especially the Temple Mount, remind the psalmist of the Creator, and of his own human smallness, and need of spiritual life. Here is how this powerful metaphor persuades us to reach out to God for life and purpose.
… to be reconciled with God. Here are the facts set out by Paul, the apostle. We must know about the state of mankind, our future in eternity, what Christ has done to help us, how He can rescue us, and what happens at conversion.
What and where is the soul? Is my soul active or asleep? What am I missing if it is inactive? How is life affected? Is there fulfilment without making provision for the soul? Here is how the soul may receive life and communion with God.
Christ’s parable of the two son who changed their minds shows us ourselves, and what forces shape our attitude to God. There is nothing quite like this parable to challenge us to deeper thought about our need of new life from Christ.
Drawn away from God by various influences (mentioned here), we become our own god, requiring ‘worship’ and admiration, and inventing our own ruler. Then God intervenes, and we see ourselves as we really are. Only He can turn us round to find and walk with Him. Here is how.
You May Be Also Interested in… Video Tract: The house of the soulSermon: Justified By Faith AloneBook: The Justified Believer
Christ says that His salvation is easy, yet He also mentions difficulties. Here are the things that make it difficult, that we are reluctant to accept. But here also are the things that make it easy for us to open the gate of new and eternal life.
In this royal testimony of conversion David describes his previous ignorance, and how the wonder and majesty of the night sky stamped on his mind God’s infinite being, and his own smallness, bringing him to seek the kindness that stoops, pardons and imparts spiritual life.
The coming of Christ was unique, extraordinary, and essential – if people are to be enabled to find and know God. He came to give spiritual life to countless individuals who believe in Him. Here are the immense gains of spiritual life, and how it may be received.
Only God can purge the conscience. Here is why, and how He does it. Animal sacrifices could not do it; they were only illustrations of what God would do. Other religions proclaim no Saviour. Here is how we may know that our guilt is removed.
Christ’s parable of the lost sheep presents His concern for individuals, His costly labour for them, and His readiness to carry the spiritually wandering to eternal life and safety. Here an apparently simple plot conveys the deepest and most needed message in the world.
Wealth, fame, power, health, ability and pleasure all rank among the things most desired by men and women. But the Christian message ranks the forgiveness of God greater than them all. Here are the limits and costs of the former, and the eternal gains of free forgiveness.
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: How shall I praise the eternal God? Sermon: Words of Eternal LifeBook: The Life of Faith
Here is the life and attempted coup of Absalom, son of king David, with its startling parallels of everyone’s rebellion against their God. We trace Absalom’s thoughts and plans, and his end. Here is the gentle searching of our hearts by God, designed to lead us back to Him.
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: How shall I praise the eternal God? Sermon: Words of Eternal LifeBook: The Life of Faith
The necessity of the Cross of Calvary; the unfolding story; the mysterious three hours of darkness that terrified and silenced the vast crowd; their meaning and their message; why Calvary is the greatest event in history; the eternal significance of our personal reaction.
All people have their distinctive aptitudes as gifts, but no one is entire or complete, for vital faculties are missing until God works in our lives. Every ‘good’ and ‘perfect’ gift, says the Bible, comes from above. Here are the missing gifts, which God gives to those who seek Him.
You May Be Also Interested in… Hymn: How shall I praise the eternal God? Sermon: Words of Eternal LifeBook: The Life of Faith
Christ’s great parable of two houses speaks to all of us who shape our lives and future entirely on this material world, forgetting our spiritual purpose. Here is the outcome, as years pass, and here is the amazing experience, by contrast, of finding the Lord.
Rejection by God at the end of life’s journey is surely the most terrible shock imaginable. Here are the reasons set out in the Bible, along with God’s method of showing mercy and love to all who will receive it, while there is time.
Christ’s parable of the faithful servant portrays our duty to God, who gave us our bodies, faculties and powers. What do we do with these, and with Christ’s invitation to spiritual life and power? Here are the message and the promises of a life-changing parable.
Christ constantly combined compassionate works of healing with illustrations of spiritual conversion. His healing of the helpless man at Bethesda’s Pool is a remarkable example, showing the dramatic course and features of how Christ is to be approached, and what He will do for seekers.
King David shows that no ruler or society or relation or loved one can help an individual person concerning the soul. This central, vital core of our being can only be enlivened and protected by God, and David’s message is about God’s way of saving the soul.
The Pharisees asked Christ a question to trap Him, but He gave a totally unexpected reply that challenged them – and us also. Is the Kingdom of God in us, and are we in it? Here are its characteristics and blessings, and how it may be entered.
