'Now It Is the Lord'
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus Christ as our Sanctifier and not just the blessings He brings.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of focusing on God as the Giver rather than becoming overly attached to His gifts. He recounts Dr. Albert B. Simpson's experience at a Bible conference where differing views on sanctification were presented, ultimately leading to Simpson's declaration that Jesus Christ is the true Sanctifier. Tozer encourages believers to shift their attention from blessings to the Lord Himself, reminding them that true worship is centered on Christ. This message serves as a call to prioritize relationship with God over the pursuit of His gifts.
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Is it possible to become so enamored of God's good gifts that we fail to worship Him, the Giver? Dr. Albert B. Simpson, the founder of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, invited to preach in a Bible conference in England discovered on his arrival that he was to follow two other Bible teachers. All three had been given the same topic, "Sanctification." From the pulpit, the first speaker made clear his position that sanctification means eradication-the old carnal nature is removed. The second, a suppressionist, advised: "Sit on the lid and keep the old nature down!" Dr. Simpson in his turn quietly told his audience that he could only present Jesus Christ Himself as God's answer. "Jesus Christ is your Sanctifier, your all and in all!
God wants you to get your eyes away from the gifts.
He wants your gaze to be on the Giver-Christ Himself," he said. This is a wonderful word for those who would worship rightly: Once it was the blessing; Now it is the Lord!
Sermon Outline
- The Dangers of Idolizing God's Gifts
- The Importance of Focusing on the Giver
- Worshipping the Giver
- A call to focus on Christ Himself
- A shift from the blessing to the Lord
Key Quotes
“Jesus Christ is your Sanctifier, your all and in all!” — A.W. Tozer
“God wants you to get your eyes away from the gifts. He wants your gaze to be on the Giver-Christ Himself.” — A.W. Tozer
“Once it was the blessing; Now it is the Lord!” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Make a conscious effort to shift your focus from the blessings to the Giver, Christ Himself.
- Remember that Jesus Christ is your Sanctifier, your all and in all.
- Prioritize worshipping the Giver over idolizing His gifts.