Still totally digging Bryan Chappell’s “Christ Centered Worship” — in it he has a chapter on “Christ Centered Sermons” which I’ll probably go back to about 103 times.
Some good nuggets this AM, but here is one thought that really stuck out —
…people are not tempted by what they have no desire to do. The only reason that sin has any power in our life is because we love it. If the sin had no attraction for us, it would have no power over us. When love for Christ dominates our affections, sin loses its allure and consequently loses its power. Love for Christ is the power of obedience. Preaching that floods the heart with affection for the Savior simultaneously loosen the hold of false idols on our hearts, chokes the appeal of sin, nourishes the desire for holiness, and stimulates zeal for kingdom purposes.
When love for Chirst is preeminent, doing his will is our greatest compulsion and joy.
Thus the joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10)
As Piper says then – “God is most glorified in us, when we are most satisfied in him” – AMEN!
Mike Ruel 