Heart on SermonAudio

This sermon explores the theological reasons behind God's divine restraint in the lives of believers, illustrating how divine intervention often prevents human error or redirects passion toward a higher purpose. Through the narrative of David and Abigail in 1 Samuel, the text highlights how God protects individuals from the ungodly impulses of their own hearts, particularly when emotions cloud judgment. The discussion expands to John 11, where Jesus' delay in visiting Lazarus demonstrates that God often requires waiting rather than immediate knowledge to deepen faith and glorify Himself. Additionally, the sermon uses Acts 16 to show how closed doors serve to redirect believers' efforts toward the specific good works prepared by God, as referenced in Ephesians 2:10. Finally, the account of Jonah illustrates that God may restrain believers through correction to break their resistance, ensuring they become willing participants in His will rather than unwilling vessels.

This sermon expounds on Ephesians 4:25-32, arguing that believers, as new creations in Christ, must align their actions, speech, and thoughts with their renewed identity. The central message emphasizes that God is concerned not merely with external behavior but with the heart, which dictates both words and attitudes. The text highlights the duty to speak truth and edify others, avoiding falsehood, gossip, and malicious speech, while also addressing the need to manage anger and replace sinful thoughts with those that please God. Drawing on the Westminster Larger Catechism, the exposition provides specific applications for the Ninth Commandment, urging listeners to pursue integrity, kindness, and spiritual growth through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Explore the central place of Scripture in Christ's earthly life. From his childhood, through the temptation in the wilderness, His ministry, to His suffering on the cross, Jesus lived, prayed, taught, and obeyed the Word of God. Christ is both the Word made flesh and the perfect listener to the written Word. Christ's example calls Christians to cherish Scripture in their own hearts.

A brief closing reflection summarizing the themes of the conference. Christ cherished Scripture, the Word of His Father. He lived by it and fulfilled it. Through unity with Him and the work of the Holy Spirit, believers receive that same Word into their own hearts. The closing message encourages participants to continue reading, praying, singing, and living out the Scripture, so that their minds, hearts, and lives may be increasingly shaped.

Spurgeon asks the heart-rending question which everyone must ultimately answer.

Last month we began looking at the 1st Direction, under Case 3 that John Flavel gave to us under the 3rd Season of life – How public and tender hearts may be relieved and supported when they are overweighed with the burdensome sense of Zion's troubles. This evening we now want to receive the 4th Direction which John Flavel gives to us: Take heed that you overlook not the many precious mercies which the people of God enjoy amidst all their troubles. 1. What should godly people do when many or most of the people in their society are not turning to the Lord or following the Lord? 2. Even so, Jeremiah reminded himself of the Lord's lovingkindnesses and His tender mercies.

In this episode, we venture into the epicenter of John Bunyan's The Holy War—a grand, high-stakes military epic that transforms the human soul into the contested fortress of Mansoul. From the tactical vulnerabilities of the city's five sensory gates to the tragic slide into spiritual complacency under Mr. Carnal-Security, Bunyan strips away religious platitudes to reveal how easily a restored heart can lose its way. We trace the dramatic conversion of Lord Willbewill, the fiery confrontation where Mr. Godly-Fear shatters the illusion of safety, and the essential partnership between an awakened conscience and the guiding power of the Holy Spirit. If you've ever wondered how subtle compromises take root—or how true vigilance and grace reclaim what was lost—this deep dive into Bunyan's 2nd allegorical books that will fundamentally change the way you guard the gates of your own life.

Building on the previous 2 topics, this address explored how the Holy Spirit uses Scripture to shape the believers into the image of Christ. The Word enriches the spirit, gives new direction to one's emotions, strengthens faith, deepens prayer, and shapes the Christians character. In short, it renews and transforms the heart and one's faculties and will bear fruit in the Christian's life. God's Word transforms the whole person for a life of joyful obedience.

The Bible has the power to totally transform you. Yes, transforming you to the image of Christ. Many people wish their life was different or even a second chance in life. What you need to know is that the Bible has the power to change you if you will simply read and study your copy of the Bible. Do you want to be skilled in all aspects of living? The Word of God provides the instruction for that. Yes, The Bible always targets the soul, and when the inner person of who you really are is transformed, your behavior will follow. So, do you have a problem with your behavior, then go to The Word of God .