Spiritual Awakening – Salisbury Baptist Church

The Awakening of the Soul

15th September 2024

Christian conversion is more than a change of religion or joining a church; it is a spiritual awakening brought about by the Holy Spirit. This awakening involves a conviction of sin, a turning to Christ as Saviour, and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. The process of conversion is often contested by Satan, but Christ intercedes on our behalf. True conversion results in a transformed life, described in Scripture as being 'snatched from the burning'. The need for genuine conversion applies not only to individuals but also to entire communities and nations.

Keeping Your Lamp Trimmed

18th August 2024

Christ's return is imminent, though the exact time is unknown. As Christians, we must remain vigilant and spiritually prepared. This involves utilising the 'means of grace' - practices like Bible reading, prayer, church attendance, and sharing the Gospel - to stay filled with the Holy Spirit. Just as the wise virgins in Jesus' parable had enough oil for their lamps, we too must be 'oiled up' spiritually. Our goal should be to walk properly 'as in the daytime', representing Christ well right up to when He returns.

The Mystery of Choice

11th August 2024

God's prior action in loving and choosing us forms the foundation of our salvation and relationship with Him. While Scripture clearly teaches God's sovereign election, it also calls for human response. This seeming paradox is resolved in the work of the Holy Spirit, Who awakens sinners to their need for Christ and enables them to respond in faith. God's love is not merely an emotion but a choice that precedes and enables our choice of Him. This understanding applies not only to salvation but also to areas such as relationships and church leadership. The power of God's Word and the Holy Spirit's work are crucial in bringing about true spiritual awakening and transformation.

The Love That Holds Us Fast: Awakening to Christ’s Constraining Grace

11th August 2024

God's love for us precedes our love for Him. This truth is central to understanding spiritual awakening and growth in the Christian life. Many believers struggle to live out their faith fully, but there is a deeper work of the Holy Spirit available—an awakening that leads to spiritual vitality. This awakening often begins with prayer and a renewed awareness of Christ's constraining love. His love holds us fast, like a safety cord for mountain climbers, allowing us to persevere in our spiritual journey despite our weaknesses and failures. The Western Church is in great need of such an awakening to rekindle its love for Christ and experience His transformative power.

Awakening – Part 2

5th May 2024

This sermon further explores the concept of “spiritual awakening”, emphasizing the importance of moving from spiritual slumber to a life of active faith. Drawing from Romans 13:11-14, the message highlights the need for Christians to cast off the works of darkness and to put on the armor of light, embodying the character of Christ. It also discusses historical awakenings, demonstrating how the Holy Spirit's powerful movements can revitalize both individuals and communities. The sermon encourages believers to seek a deeper, transformative relationship with Jesus, resulting in a vibrant fellowship and renewed commitment to God's mission.

Awakening – Part 1

5th May 2024

In this sermon, the speaker delves into the concept of spiritual awakening, using biblical examples to illustrate the transformative power of truly encountering Jesus. Emphasizing the necessity for believers to move beyond superficial faith and strive for deeper understanding and sanctification, the message calls for a revival within the church. By examining the self-deceptive nature of the human heart and the need for ongoing personal and communal renewal, the sermon encourages listeners to seek a profound and sustained relationship with Christ.