Radical Adjustment to the Jesus Way
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of a radical adjustment to the teachings of Jesus in a world lost in confusion and sin.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the world is lost and confused, lacking direction and purpose, which is why Jesus came to offer salvation. He calls for a radical adjustment to the Jesus way, urging believers to reject worldly philosophies and fully trust in Christ. This transformation requires a complete renunciation of societal norms and a commitment to a new way of life that many find challenging. Tozer highlights that while people desire comfort and peace, they often shy away from the revolutionary change that true discipleship demands. Ultimately, he encourages a bold and uncompromising faith in Jesus as the only path to true fulfillment.
Text
. . . The truth is that the world does not know where it is going; it has not found life's summum bonum; it is not qualified as a model for the members of society to follow. It is instead puzzled, frightened and frustrated. Generation follows generation into an uncertain future, completely beaten, disappointed and sick at heart.
It was to this kind of world that Jesus came, to save it from itself. He died for its sins and now lives for the salvation of all who will repudiate it, deny the validity of its philosophies and put their trust wholly in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Those who do this no longer seek to be adjusted to society. They have renounced this world and have chosen a new model after which to pattern their lives. This is the aspect of the Christian life that most people do not like. They want comfort, blessing and peace, but they recoil from this radical, revolutionary break with the world. To follow Christ in this rough and thorough-going way is too much for them.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The world's confusion and lack of direction
- The impact of sin on society
- The need for salvation
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II
- Jesus as the solution to the world's problems
- The call to repentance and faith
- Living a life modeled after Christ
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III
- The rejection of worldly philosophies
- The challenge of radical adjustment
- The cost of discipleship
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IV
- The desire for comfort versus the call to sacrifice
- The revolutionary nature of following Christ
- The rewards of true discipleship
Key Quotes
“The world does not know where it is going; it has not found life's summum bonum.” — A.W. Tozer
“Those who do this no longer seek to be adjusted to society.” — A.W. Tozer
“To follow Christ in this rough and thorough-going way is too much for them.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Reflect on the values of society and identify areas where they conflict with your faith.
- Commit to a deeper relationship with Christ that may require personal sacrifice.
- Encourage others to seek true peace and direction through Jesus rather than worldly comforts.