Unseen Realities
A.W. Tozer explores the disadvantages of living a Christian life while emphasizing the promise of eternal glory that outweighs present sufferings.
The preacher delves into the meaning of 'trecho,' which signifies moving faster than a walk, making rapid linear movement, and figuratively, the rapid propagation of doctrine. This term is used in the Bible to describe exerting effort, striving hard, and spending strength to attain a goal, emphasizing the preparation and effort necessary to run spiritually. The sermon highlights the importance of running the race of faith with endurance, striving to advance spiritually or intellectually, and spreading the Word of God rapidly and without restraint.
Text
Let us not be shocked by the suggestion that there are disadvantages to the life in Christ. There most certainly are. Abel was murdered. Joseph was sold into slavery, Daniel was thrown into the den of lions, Stephen was stoned to death, Paul was beheaded, and a noble army of martyrs was put to death by various painful methods down the long centuries. And where the hostility did not lead to such violence (and mostly it did not and does not) the sons of this world nevertheless managed to make it tough for the children of God in a thousand cruel ways.
Everyone who has lived for Christ in a Christless world has suffered some losses and endured some pains that he could have avoided by the simple expedient of laying down his cross.
However, the pains are short and the losses inconsequential compared with the glory that will follow, "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory" (2 Cor. 4:17). But while we are here among men with our sensitive hearts exposed to the chilly blasts of the unbelieving and uncomprehending world it is imperative that we take a realistic view of things and learn how to deal with disadvantages. And it is important that we tell the whole truth to those we are endeavoring to win.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Understanding the Disadvantages of Life in Christ - Historical Examples of Suffering - The Cost of Discipleship
- II points: - The Reality of Suffering - The Nature of Worldly Hostility - The Shortness of Present Afflictions
- III points: - The Promise of Future Glory - The Importance of Realistic Expectations - Communicating Truth to Others
Key Quotes
“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” — A.W. Tozer
“Everyone who has lived for Christ in a Christless world has suffered some losses and endured some pains.” — A.W. Tozer
“It is imperative that we take a realistic view of things and learn how to deal with disadvantages.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Acknowledge the reality of suffering in the Christian journey and prepare for it.
- Focus on the eternal perspective to find hope amidst current afflictions.
- Communicate openly about the challenges of faith to help others understand the truth of the Christian experience.