Fasting on SermonAudio

Every faithful stance will be richly rewarded. 1. Do not throw away your faith 2. Do the will of the Father 3. Don't shrink back

This sermon introduces a series on the book of Hebrews by establishing a theology of biblical warnings, arguing that they are intended to preserve believers rather than induce despair. The central message emphasizes that the primary danger for Christians is not a lack of initial salvation, but a gradual drift away from Christ caused by apathy, worldly distractions, and spiritual declension. By examining Hebrews 6 and 10, the text highlights that while Christ's work of redemption is complete and once-for-all, believers must actively hold fast to their confidence in Him to the end. The preacher urges the audience to view these severe warnings as acts of divine love that provoke self-examination, repentance, and a renewed focus on the supremacy of Christ, ensuring that the fear of God serves as a protective boundary rather than a source of doubt.

This sermon explores the theological significance of God's oath to Abraham as a demonstration of His gracious condescension and unchangeable character. It argues that while God's word is inherently trustworthy, He swears an oath to provide deeper assurance to weak human hearts, encouraging believers to hold fast to their hope. The text highlights the necessity of patience and faith in waiting for God's promises, using Abraham's example to show that time and tribulation can strengthen rather than weaken faith. The message concludes by identifying Jesus Christ as the sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, who has entered the heavenly sanctuary to secure the believer's eternal inheritance, offering ultimate security amidst life's storms.

The sermon examines the question posed by John the Baptist's disciples regarding fasting, using it to illustrate that God values the internal attitude of the heart over external religious actions. By analysing Jesus' parables of the bridegroom, the new cloth, and the new wine, the message emphasises that Christ's presence brings joy and that the new covenant of grace cannot be contained within the old structures of legalism. The preacher urges believers to stop comparing themselves to others and instead examine their own motives, asking why they serve and worship. It is argued that true devotion flows from a regenerated heart that loves Christ, rather than from a desire for recognition or duty. Ultimately, the call is for believers to be willing to change their perceptions and behaviors to align with Christ's terms, recognizing that He sees the sincerity of their intentions.

Because your citizenship is in heaven and your Savior is coming to transform you, you must follow faithful examples and stand fast in the Lord. I. You Belong to Heaven II. Follow Faithful Examples III. Stand Fast in the Lord

This sermon examines the biblical practice of fasting through the lens of Isaiah 58, arguing that God rejects ritualistic self-denial performed with selfish motives or for the purpose of manipulation. The central message emphasizes that true fasting is defined not by the physical act of abstaining, but by the resulting transformation of the heart toward humility, justice, and compassion for the oppressed. By contrasting the disingenuous fasts of the Israelites with the 'fast that God chooses,' the teaching highlights that genuine spiritual discipline produces outward acts of love and service, such as feeding the hungry and freeing the oppressed. The tone is instructional and convicting, urging believers to move beyond mere religious performance to a deeper intimacy with God that renews the mind and aligns daily life with divine will. Ultimately, the sermon presents fasting as a vital tool for breaking self-centeredness and positioning believers to receive God's guidance, healing, and promises of restoration.

This sermon examines the biblical and confessional standards for the appointment of church officers, specifically elders and deacons, emphasizing that their calling is appointed by Christ and executed through the local congregation. It argues that the selection process must involve the common suffrage, or vote, of the church rather than external ecclesiastical bodies or self-appointment, grounded in the qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy and Titus. The discourse highlights the necessity of solemnity in this process, advocating for fasting and prayer as acts of humility before God, distinct from modern misconceptions of spiritual discipline. Furthermore, it clarifies the role of the imposition of hands, asserting that while it is a symbolic act of setting apart, the essence of ordination lies in the concurrence of the congregation and the acceptance of the candidate. The sermon concludes by urging believers to actively participate in examining candidates and seeking God's will, rather than delegating this responsibility solely to the leadership.