November 10. 1678. the Wilderness.
Jane Lead's sermon emphasizes the hope and assurance found in waiting for the Redeemer during times of solitude and desolation.
Jane Lead preaches about the imminent return of the Redeemer, likening it to a woman in labor about to give birth to something glorious. Despite the chaos and noise of the world, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that their defense will not depart. They are urged to stay watchful and wait for the Lord's appearance, especially in times of universal desolation.
Text
THE Heavenly Alarm sounded thus: Hear, oh hear, ye that are as in a Solitary Wilderness. Good tidings are verily brought from a far Country to the hearing-Ear of them, who are waiting in the Bride's Spirit. It is now but a short space, before you will see your Redeemer. Whose Spirit as a Sign hereof doth travel in thee, as a Woman that is pained to be Delivered. Faint not, for it is a Lordly Birth, that will bring rejoicing and the Heavens will fly away. Then I had a sight of high Water-Floods, that made a great noise, but a Word came: Fear thou none of these things.
Keep in the secret Desert still, till the Bridegroom shall bring out the Cloathing from the Heavenly Sphear.
Be only watchful, and your Defence will not depart, but rest with you, in the times of an Universal Desolation, that hastens apace. In the midst of which, the Lord will appear for his own Elect.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to the Wilderness experience - Understanding the Bride's Spirit - The significance of waiting for the Redeemer
- II points: - The promise of good tidings - The Lord's presence in times of solitude - The metaphor of childbirth as a sign of hope
- III points: - Facing fears amidst chaos - The importance of remaining watchful - The assurance of divine protection
- IV points: - The call to remain in the secret Desert - The anticipation of the Heavenly Cloathing - The role of faith during Universal Desolation
Key Quotes
“Hear, oh hear, ye that are as in a Solitary Wilderness.” — Jane Lead
“Faint not, for it is a Lordly Birth, that will bring rejoicing and the Heavens will fly away.” — Jane Lead
“Fear thou none of these things.” — Jane Lead
Application Points
- Embrace periods of waiting as opportunities for spiritual growth.
- Stay vigilant in faith, trusting that God will provide protection and hope.
- Recognize the signs of divine presence even in challenging circumstances.