Johnston's Gems
E.A. Johnston challenges believers to surrender fully to Christ, emphasizing that true revival and blessing come only when Christ reigns supreme over self.
In 'Johnston's Gems,' E.A. Johnston powerfully calls believers to a full surrender to Christ, highlighting the necessity of revival and holiness in the church. He challenges the complacency of lukewarm Christianity and urges a shift from self-centeredness to Christ-centered living. Through pointed preaching, Johnston encourages the church to embrace searching sermons that lead to true spiritual awakening and blessing.
Full Transcript
The day Christ becomes your all will be the day you give him your all. God wants to bless us, but we must get out of the way. God wants to give us his very best by taking our very worst.
God's aspirations for us are greater than our own. We don't want revival because we're content with lukewarm Christianity. We don't want holiness because we'd first have to look in the mirror to see our ugliness.
If self is king, there's no room for Christ. If Christ is king, then there's no room for self. Revival is necessary when the church becomes secondary.
We need searching sermons and pointed preaching, but we prefer soothing stories and painless embalming.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The necessity of giving Christ your all
- God desires to bless us but requires us to step aside
- Our worst becomes God's best when surrendered
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II
- God's aspirations exceed our own
- Lukewarm Christianity hinders revival
- Holiness demands self-examination
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III
- Self cannot reign if Christ is king
- Revival is essential when the church becomes secondary
- The church's need for searching sermons over soothing stories
Key Quotes
“The day Christ becomes your all will be the day you give him your all.” — E.A. Johnston
“God wants to bless us, but we must get out of the way.” — E.A. Johnston
“If self is king, there's no room for Christ.” — E.A. Johnston
Application Points
- Examine your heart honestly to identify areas where self still reigns.
- Seek revival by prioritizing Christ above all else in your life.
- Embrace challenging sermons that prompt spiritual growth rather than just comfort.