Blessed From the World
This sermon explores the journey of faith from childhood simplicity to deeper understanding and the blessings that come from both experiences.
John Ker preaches about the journey of faith, comparing it to the flight of a field-lark rising above its nest to see the beauty of God's creation and the return of a dove to its ark after finding no rest elsewhere. He emphasizes that both experiences, whether soaring high or returning to a place of safety, bring blessings and deeper spiritual growth. The message conveyed through these experiences is richer and more profound, akin to the significance of an olive leaf from the flood compared to a simple song of praise.
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"... from faith to faith: as it is written. The just shall live by faith" (Rom. 1:17).
Those Christians are blessed who need to leave their simple views of childhood's faith no more than the field-lark does her nest-rising right over it to look at God's morning sun, and his wide, beautiful world, singing a clear, happy song, and then sinking straight down again to their heart's home. But those are not less blessed who, like the dove, lose their ark for a while, and return to it, having found no rest for the sole of their foot save there. They have a deeper experience within, and carry a higher and wider message to the world. The olive leaf in the mouth, plucked from the passing flood, is more than the song at coming daylight.
It is as Paul's "Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory," compared with the children's "Hosannah."
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Understanding the concept of faith - The journey from childhood faith to mature faith
- II points: - The blessings of those with simple faith - The importance of returning to one's roots
- III points: - Experiencing deeper faith through trials - The message of hope and victory in faith
- IV points: - The significance of the olive leaf - Contrasting children's faith with mature faith
Key Quotes
“The just shall live by faith.” — John Ker
“Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory.” — John Ker
“The olive leaf in the mouth, plucked from the passing flood, is more than the song at coming daylight.” — John Ker
Application Points
- Reflect on your own faith journey and identify areas for growth.
- Embrace trials as opportunities to deepen your relationship with God.
- Share your experiences of faith with others to encourage their spiritual growth.