Sermons on Loving God with the Heart
1 Samuel 9:1-27
In 1 Samuel 9:1-27 Saul, the king like the nations, is introduced. He is described as a great man, from a noble family, who is humble, and receives the Word of God. Surely, if having a king like the other nations is going to work it will with Saul. His reign, however, will be disastrous. The example of Saul teaches us not to look on outward appearance but to trust in God who sees the heart. Such is the contrast…
Proverbs 4:20-27
“Religion is mainly in the affections” (Richard Sibbes). God wants the heart. In Proverbs 4:20-27 Solomon tells his son to keep his heart above all else. Let your heart be reserved for God. You have been betrothed to one bridegroom, O Christian. Let your heart and everything else be devoted to God.
Deuteronomy 27:11-26
In Deuteronomy 27:11-26, Moses finishes his instructions for the covenant ceremony to be performed on the other side of the Jordan. The focus of this passage is on the blessings for obedience and the curses for disobedience. In particular the curses for disobedience are emphasized, curses that we, even in this new covenant era, need to take to heart. If you make a practice of sin, you will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Song of Songs 3:6-11
In the Song of Songs 3:6-11 the Shulamite and her beloved come together in marriage. Solomon is crowned king as his bride is brought to him. Clues throughout this passage indicate that this wedding scene is meant to teach something about salvation: Christ is crowned as he takes his bride as his own in redemption. Salvation is the coming together of a redeemed bride and kingly bridegroom.