Esther Dowie's Death, Pt 1
The sermon reflects on the sudden and tragic death of Esther Dowie, highlighting God's mercy and the enemy's power.
John Alexander Dowie reflects on the life and death of Esther Dowie, emphasizing the profound beauty and purity of her spirit dedicated to God and humanity. He expresses sorrow over her sudden passing due to disobedience, yet finds solace in the victory given by God, reminding the congregation of His presence in times of grief. Dowie encourages the faithful to remember the joy and love that Esther embodied, even in her absence, and to trust in God's plan amidst sorrow.
Full Transcript
When I pass through the waters, He sweetly said, They shall not overflow, for Thou art with me, and I am not afraid. O Sion, tell the unto God who giveth us the victory, To our Lord Jesus the Christ. I speak these words before I leave the city for a few days, To spend the summer with my beloved wife and son, At the little home across the lake, Where our darling daughter dwells so well to see, And there alone we have enough to howl, The quietude of home life for a few short days.
O, it was terrible to think that a life so pure and majestically beautiful, Loving God so purely and His work so devotedly, And looking forward to His service in the redemption of humanity, With such intense joy, should so suddenly be taken away Through one act of disobedience and one alone.
For as I search my memory, I cannot find another thing in which He disobeyed, But her beautiful body was destroyed by the enemy, God mercifully not permitting that enemy to mar her sweet face, Leaving us that joy in the sweet long passing hours.
Sermon Outline
- Introduction
- Personal Reflections
- The Loss of Esther Dowie
Key Quotes
“They shall not overflow, for Thou art with me, and I am not afraid.” — John Alexander Dowie
“O Sion, tell the unto God who giveth us the victory, To our Lord Jesus the Christ.” — John Alexander Dowie
“For as I search my memory, I cannot find another thing in which He disobeyed,” — John Alexander Dowie
Application Points
- We can trust in God's presence and protection, even in the midst of difficulties.
- Disobedience can have severe consequences, but God's mercy can still be experienced.
- We should focus on serving God and His work, even in the face of adversity.