Change: Regress or Progress
The sermon challenges the idea that we are advanced and encourages a re-evaluation of what it means to be progressive, highlighting the importance of spiritual growth over external changes.
A.W. Tozer challenges the notion of societal advancement, arguing that despite technological progress, moral and ethical standards have regressed. He questions the validity of claiming advancement when societal issues such as violence, drug abuse, and overcrowded prisons persist. Tozer emphasizes that mere movement does not equate to progress, and warns against the complacency of believing that modernity equates to improvement. He calls for a deeper reflection on true progress, which should be measured by spiritual and moral growth rather than superficial advancements. Ultimately, Tozer urges listeners to recognize the dangers of equating modernity with righteousness.
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I challenge the idea that we are advanced. I know the majority of modern educators, newpaper writers, TV personalities, radio reporters, politicians and all the rest do not agree with me. Nevertheless, I challenge the idea that we are any further advanced than they were in the days of Jesus. If we are so advanced, then I want to ask some questions. Why do we kill thousands of human beings each year with automobiles? Because we ride automobiles instead of donkeys, we are advanced? If we are so advanced in our day, why are the penitentiaries packed full and the mental hospitals crowded? If we are so advanced, why is the whole world a powder keg?
If we are so advanced, how is it that we have weapons that can annihilate the world?
If we are so advanced, why is it that people cannot walk alone in the parks anymore? Why is it that workers who get out at midnight never walk home alone anymore? Why is it in this advanced age that drugs, violence, abortion and divorce are soaring? There is a mind-set that thinks every motion is progress. Every time you move you are progressing. Then there is the mid-set that thinks whenever you move in a straight line you are going forward, forgetting that you can move in a straight line and be going backward. The tragedy of the century is that Protestants have accepted this as progress and actually believe it. . . .
Sermon Outline
- The Illusion of Progress
- The Myth of Straight-Line Progress
- The Church's Role in Progress
- The Church's Acceptance of Progress
- The Need for Spiritual Re-evaluation
Key Quotes
“There is a mind-set that thinks every motion is progress. Every time you move you are progressing.” — A.W. Tozer
“Then there is the mid-set that thinks whenever you move in a straight line you are going forward, forgetting that you can move in a straight line and be going backward.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We should not confuse external progress with true spiritual growth, and instead focus on developing a deeper relationship with God.
- The Church should play a crucial role in encouraging spiritual growth and evaluating progress in a way that prioritizes internal transformation.
- We should be cautious of the idea that every motion is progress, and instead seek to understand the true nature of progress and spiritual growth.