Relics
The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking living holiness, which can give us everlasting life, rather than seeking dead things that are powerless to give us spiritual life.
W.R. Inge challenges the congregation to question why they seek after dead bones instead of pursuing living holiness, which offers everlasting life. He emphasizes that the dead have nothing to offer, neither can they take away, highlighting the futility of seeking fulfillment in lifeless pursuits.
Text
MY people, why seek ye after dead bones? Why seek ye not after living holiness, which might give you everlasting life? The dead can neither give nor take away. (599)
Sermon Outline
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I
- The Futility of Seeking Dead Things
- The Importance of Living Holiness
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II
- The Limitations of Dead Things
- The Power of Living Holiness
Key Quotes
“Why seek ye after dead bones? Why seek ye not after living holiness, which might give you everlasting life?” — W.R. Inge
Application Points
- We should prioritize seeking living holiness in our lives, which can give us everlasting life and spiritual vitality.
- Dead things, such as empty rituals or lifeless traditions, are powerless to give us spiritual life and should be avoided.
- Living holiness is a powerful force that can transform our lives and give us a deeper connection with God.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to seek dead bones?
It means to seek things that are lifeless and powerless to give or take away true spiritual life.
Why is living holiness important?
Living holiness is essential because it can give us everlasting life and is a powerful force in our spiritual lives.
Can dead things give us spiritual life?
No, dead things are powerless to give us spiritual life and can only lead to spiritual death.
What is the difference between dead and living holiness?
Dead holiness is lifeless and powerless, while living holiness is vibrant and powerful, giving us everlasting life.