Truth, Not Popularity
The sermon highlights the necessity of embracing the truth of Jesus Christ over the allure of popular teachings in the world.
Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus Christ as the eternal God and the dangers of false teachers who distort this truth for popularity. He warns that many who speak of Jesus do not truly believe in His divine nature and instead promote messages that cater to worldly philosophies. Epp encourages believers to affirm their faith in God's Word and to distinguish themselves from those who reject the truth of Christ's divinity. He reassures that those who are of God will accept this message and have overcome the world through their faith. Ultimately, he challenges listeners to evaluate their own beliefs and relationship with God.
Text
1 John 4:1-6
It is sad, but many who talk about our Saviour and use His name do not believe that He is the eternal God, the Creator of all things, and that He came to die for the sins of mankind.
In the verses previous to this, the apostle discussed false teachers who talk about Jesus but fail to acknowledge that He truly is the Son of God. Such people are representatives of Satan, not messengers of God. They speak the type of message that the world loves to hear. Often based on human philosophy, it caters to the pride of intellect so prized by most people. Such teachers and those who delight in their teaching are unbelievers. Where, then, do you stand with reference to this matter? If you agree with them, then you, too, need to be born again.
On the other hand, how do I know that I am of God? I believe His Word. I believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal God, that He dwells in a glorified human body and that I shall be like Him, for one day I shall see Him as He is. I have no doubt about it. The people who are of God will accept this message, but those who are of the world will reject it. Classify yourself according to your attitude. It will let you know whether or not you are saved.
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4).
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Introduction to the concept of truth versus popularity
- The importance of recognizing true belief in Jesus
- The distinction between false teachers and true believers
-
II
- Characteristics of false teachers
- The appeal of human philosophy
- The danger of pride in intellect
-
III
- How to identify if one is of God
- The significance of believing in the eternal God
- The assurance of salvation for true believers
-
IV
- The response of the world to the message of Christ
- The necessity of being born again
- Self-classification based on attitude towards the message
Key Quotes
“It is sad, but many who talk about our Saviour and use His name do not believe that He is the eternal God.” — Theodore Epp
“Such people are representatives of Satan, not messengers of God.” — Theodore Epp
“Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- Evaluate your beliefs to ensure they align with the truth of Scripture.
- Be cautious of teachings that prioritize human intellect over divine revelation.
- Seek a personal relationship with Jesus to confirm your identity as a child of God.