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  GOING DEEPER WITH CHRIST
  by David Wilkerson
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Summary: David Wilkerson's sermon emphasizes the importance of deepening
our relationship with Christ and responding to His call amidst
distractions and doubts.

Topics: "Resurrection", "Spiritual Growth"
Scripture References: John 20:22, John 21:3, John 21:15

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DESCRIPTION
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David Wilkerson emphasizes the transformative power of the resurrection
of Jesus Christ, which initially left the disciples in fear and
confusion. Despite their struggles to comprehend the significance of the
resurrection, Jesus calls them back to purpose, urging them to move
beyond their old ways and deeper into their relationship with Him. He
illustrates this through Peter's experience of fishing without success
until Jesus directed him to cast his net on the other side, resulting in
a miraculous catch. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace their
spiritual journey, acknowledging that feelings of inadequacy are part of
God's plan to draw them closer to Him. Ultimately, the message is one of
love and commitment to follow Christ wholeheartedly.

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CONTENT
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The greatest revelation the disciples ever received focused on the
resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was the first day of the week, and the
disciples were hiding behind locked doors for fear of the Jews.
Suddenly, Jesus appeared -- in full resurrection glory -- victorious
over death, hell, and the devil. He showed the disciples his hands, his
feet, his pierced side, and then he breathed on them and said, "Receive
the Holy Spirit" (John 20:22).

What glorious truths were coming forth -- revelation upon revelation! It
was almost too much for the disciples, and several of them, led by
Peter, decided to go fishing (see John 21:3). Peter was having trouble
taking it all in. "I can't comprehend the cross -- how will I ever
understand his resurrection? After all this time I've spent with him, I
have understood so little. Let those who are brighter go on with him. I
just want to do my own thing, in my own quiet way."

Many of us may react to spiritual things in the same way. We know the
Lord has called us to go deeper with him, but we avoid the challenge. We
fall back into our old ways and then feel guilty for our lethargy. We
fear we will never measure up to what God wants for us so we go back to
busyness -- shopping sprees, hobbies, new projects. The time once spent
with God in growing is wasted on some form of "fishing" and we become
frivolous and indecisive.

While Peter was fishing, the Lord noticed he was catching nothing and
directed him to cast his net on the opposite side -- where he gathered a
tremendous harvest of fish. Later, while Peter separated his catch,
Jesus said to him, in essence, "Peter, if you love me, get back to where
you were. Follow me; feed my sheep; stop doing your own thing. Wake up!"
(see John 21:15-18).

All Jesus asks of you is that you love him. Don't worry about measuring
up and don't allow your dry spells to bring you to despair. Rejoice in
them -- they are part of God's plan to bring you into his purpose for
your life.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/david-wilkerson/going-deeper-with-christ/
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