Return Within
The sermon emphasizes the importance of returning within to listen to the voice of the Lord, being faithful, and prizing time for the soul's sake.
George Fox encourages his parents to 'Return Within' and listen for the Voice of the Lord, emphasizing the importance of discernment to recognize the true voice amidst distractions. He urges them to remain faithful to what they know and to focus on the present moment, as time is precious for their souls. By growing in purity and unity with God, they can experience true joy and fulfillment in their spiritual journey.
Text
(To his Father and Mother)
DEAR Father and Mother in the Flesh, . . .
Praises, Praises be given to my Heavenly Father, who hath begotten me again by the Immortal Word. To that of God in you both I speak, and do beseech you both for the Lord's sake to Return within, and wait to hear the Voice of the Lord there; and waiting there, and keeping close to the Lord, a Discerning will grow, that ye may distinguish the Voice of the Stranger, when ye hear it.
. . . Oh! be faithful, be faithful to the Lord in that ye know.
. . . Look not back, nor be too forward, further than ye have attained; for ye have no Time, but this present Time. Therefore prize your Time for your Soul's sake. And so, grow up in that which is Pure, and keep to the Oneness; then shall my Joy be full. So Fare ye well! And the Lord God of Power keep you in his Power!
Sermon Outline
- Return Within
- Listen to the Voice of the Lord
- Discern the Voice of the Stranger
- Be Faithful to the Lord
Key Quotes
“Praises, Praises be given to my Heavenly Father, who hath begotten me again by the Immortal Word.” — George Fox
“Therefore prize your Time for your Soul's sake.” — George Fox
“So Fare ye well! And the Lord God of Power keep you in his Power!” — George Fox
Application Points
- Make time to listen to the voice of the Lord and wait for His guidance.
- Be faithful to what you know and trust in the Lord's plan.
- Prize your time and live in the present moment, focusing on your soul's sake.