Paul Before Agrippa - Part 2
The sermon emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive mindset and trusting in the resurrection power of Jesus, as exemplified by the Christian testimony.
This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of encountering Jesus compared to worldly spectacles or achievements. It highlights the importance of focusing on positive, pure thoughts from the Word of God, rather than negative and critical conversations. The speaker warns against the dangers of indulging in immoral content online and the impact it can have on one's life and future generations. Ultimately, the message centers on the unmatched assurance and hope found in knowing and declaring that 'My Redeemer lives' even in the face of tragedy and challenges.
Full Transcript
He was a diminutive man and he came out of the railway carriage on the day when he was observing silence. Nothing so impressive. He didn't speak any words.
But just the fact that he had sacrificed so much had an electrifying effect upon all the college students who had sat down on the bare ground to witness this spectacle. It was impressive. Unforgettable.
But it was not no redeeming factor about it. We had the satisfaction of seeing a great man. Not so when you meet Jesus.
When you meet the Lord Jesus your blind eyes are opened. Your wicked heart is transformed. You know how negative people are? The Bible says, Whatever things are pure and of a good report, think on these things.
Put that word of God right in front of you on your desk. Cultivate that habit. Be positive.
Dwelling on higher, purer things. 70% of viewers of the internet are supposed to be viewing very salacious, pornographic sites. In terms of time.
Now, I don't know if anybody here is guilty of that. Let me tell you. You are piercing yourself with many sorrows.
You are acquiring a heritage for your children and grandchildren. Now, it is not a strange phenomenon that we don't produce witnesses and great missionaries. The talk at our tables is negative.
It is critical of someone, whether present or absent. The whole process is negative. The whole process is very demeaning.
Very destabilizing. It does not produce health or peace or joy. But the Christian testimony I know whom I have believed.
And I am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed to Him against that day. There is simply no way to duplicate that kind of testimony anywhere in the world. I know whom I have believed.
I know that my Redeemer lives. In the midst of tragedy. In the midst of desolation.
In the midst of personal privation. To rise above it and say, I know my Redeemer lives. Now, that is one of the by-products of the resurrection power.
You cannot find a replacement for it. In any philosophy. That kind of assurance comes only from the cross of Jesus Christ.
I know my Redeemer lives. To declare it in the face of death. To declare such a thing in the face of the total destruction of your family.
My dear people. You know, people are all the time walking on thin ice. Every year you will have some casualties and deaths.
During the time when ice is thawing.
Sermon Outline
- I. The Power of Sacrifice
- A. Sacrifice can have an electrifying effect on others
- B. It's not just about the sacrifice, but about the person behind it
- II. The Contrast with Jesus
- A. Jesus' sacrifice is not just impressive, but transformative
- B. He opens blind eyes and transforms wicked hearts
- III. The Importance of Positive Thinking
- A. Dwelling on higher, purer things can bring peace and joy
- B. Negative thinking can be destructive and destabilizing
- IV. The Christian Testimony
- A. It's a personal testimony of faith and trust in Jesus
- B. It's a source of strength and assurance in the face of adversity
Key Quotes
“I know whom I have believed. And I am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed to Him against that day.” — Joshua Daniel
“I know my Redeemer lives. In the midst of tragedy. In the midst of desolation. In the midst of personal privation.” — Joshua Daniel
“You cannot find a replacement for it. In any philosophy. That kind of assurance comes only from the cross of Jesus Christ.” — Joshua Daniel
Application Points
- Cultivate a positive mindset by dwelling on higher, purer things and putting the word of God in front of you.
- Trust in the resurrection power of Jesus to overcome negative thinking and find strength and assurance in the face of adversity.
- Share your personal testimony of faith and trust in Jesus with others, as a source of inspiration and encouragement.