Obeying God
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the need for a radical reformation among Christians, arguing that this change in behavior is necessary for spiritual regeneration.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of reformation among Christians, arguing that true regeneration cannot occur without first addressing the need for obedience to God's voice. He highlights the dire consequences of rejecting God's message, as illustrated by Paul and Barnabas turning to the Gentiles. Tozer calls for a cleansing of evil deeds and a commitment to justice and righteousness, urging believers to respond to God's invitation for transformation. He stresses that the Holy Spirit will not regenerate those who remain stubborn and unyielding. Ultimately, Tozer's message is a call to action for Christians to align their lives with God's will.
Text
The second question is: How many are worthy to hear His voice? In Acts 13:46b Paul and Barnabas told the people, "Since you reject it . . . we now turn to the Gentiles." This is a terrible judgment. But here is the gist of what I want to say: A radical and sweeping reformation is imperative among the people called Christians--Protestants generally and evangelicals in particular. What is meant by reformation? Some may recoil from that word; I have heard people say, "I do not believe in reformation--I believe in regeneration." That sounds good and it gets some amens, but the fact is, if you do not have reformation you cannot have regeneration. The Holy Spirit will not come and regenerate carnal, stubborn people who will not obey Him.
First there must be a reformation.
Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight! Stop doing wrong, learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. "Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool" (Isaiah 1:16-18).
Sermon Outline
- The Need for Reformation
- A radical and sweeping reformation is imperative among Christians
- Reformation is necessary for regeneration
Key Quotes
“If you do not have reformation you cannot have regeneration.” — A.W. Tozer
“Take your evil deeds out of my sight! Stop doing wrong, learn to do right!” — A.W. Tozer
“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We must be willing to undergo a change in our behavior and obey God's commands in order to experience spiritual regeneration.
- The Holy Spirit will not regenerate people who are stubborn and unwilling to obey Him.
- Reformation is a necessary step towards spiritual growth and maturity.