Sermon 263 (end)

SERMON 263 — THE LORD AT THE CLOSED DOOR (PART 2)

Text: Revelation 3:20–22
Date: October 18, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

In the previous message on Laodicea, we saw the tragic condition of the lukewarm church and Christ’s solemn threat: I will spew thee out of my mouth.Yet astonishingly, Christ’s final words to Laodicea are words of tender mercy.Instead of turning away in disgust, He comes to her with a loving plea: Behold, I stand at the door and knock.Let us contemplate this gracious picture.

I. WHY THE LORD STANDS AT THE CLOSED DOOR

A. To reveal the church’s condition
1.They have shut Christ out of their lives.
2.He is not with them in truth, though they imagine He is.
3.They boast of wealth, knowledge, and spiritual sufficiency.
4.But Christ has been excluded by their worldliness and pride.

B. To awaken them to repentance
1.Christ stands there deliberately, not because He cannot force entry, but to make them aware of what they have done.
2.He would have them see the tragedy of a Christless Christianity.
3.He deals with them as rational creatures capable of hearing and responding.

C. To offer grace while time remains
1.His patience reveals His love.
2.His presence at the door is a call to turn back.
3.Judgment has not yet fallen; the opportunity for repentance is still open.

II. WHAT CHRIST DOES AT THE DOOR

A. He stands at the door
1.He remains; He does not turn away in anger.
2.His posture shows longing and compassion.
3.He waits for their response.

B. He knocks
1.His knocking includes chastisements, warnings, and convictions.
2.He disturbs their false peace to awaken them.
3.Every sermon, trial, or stirring of conscience may be His knock.

C. He calls
1.If any man hear My voice.
2.His voice is heard through the preaching of the Gospel.
3.His call includes both invitation and warning.
4.Yet will His voice be heard above worldly pleasure, self-satisfaction, Christless worship, and spiritual laziness?

III. WHAT HE OFFERS TO THOSE WHO OPEN THE DOOR

A. I will come in to him
1.Christ Himself enters the life of the one who repents.
2.He brings forgiveness, cleansing, comfort, and spiritual life.
3.His entrance transforms everything.

B. And will sup with him, and he with Me
1.A picture of intimate fellowship and friendship.
2.Christ becomes the host, supplying the meal, the joy, and the blessing.
3.The one inside has nothing; Christ brings all.

C. The promise of exaltation
1.To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne.
2.Opening the door is victory over sin, unbelief, worldliness, and lukewarmness.
3.As Christ overcame and sat down with His Father, so His people shall reign with Him.
4.The highest honor is given to those who repent.

D. A universal call
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.This message is for every believer and every congregation.

CONCLUSION

Next Sunday the Lord’s Supper will be celebrated.But will Christ Himself be present in your heart?You may be at the table while Christ stands outside, knocking.If you are lukewarm, be zealous, repent, and open the door.The One who knocks is the Savior, the King of Glory, the Lover of your soul.Let Him in.

Sermon 262

SERMON 262 — THE INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF REVELATION (PART 2)

Text: Revelation 1:1–8
Dates referenced: 6-28-70; 1-8-50; 2-16-64
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

This is the first sermon in a series on the opening chapters of Revelation.Tonight we continue examining the introduction to the book, a passage filled with rich truth about Christ, the church, and the nature of prophecy.Let us consider carefully what this introduction teaches us.

I. THE INFORMATION THIS PASSAGE GIVES ABOUT THE CONTENT OF THE BOOK

A. The title: “The Revelation of Jesus Christ”
1.It comes from Christ and concerns Christ.
2.It is a prophecy, as verse 3 states.
3.It is given by the Triune God:
 a.From God the Father
 b.Through Jesus Christ
 c.By means of His angel
 d.To John
 e.For Christ’s servants
4.John is the faithful recorder of the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus.

B. The purpose: “To show His servants things which must shortly come to pass.”
1.“Must” indicates certainty — nothing can prevent their fulfillment.
2.“Shortly” means they begin immediately; we live in the last era of God’s plan.
3.The book reveals the unfolding of history under Christ’s sovereign rule.

II. THE ENCOURAGEMENT GIVEN TO THOSE WHO STUDY THIS BOOK

A. God promises a blessing
1.A unique blessing is attached to the reading and hearing of this prophecy.
2.This assures us that study of Revelation is profitable.
3.Though difficult, God guarantees reward to the diligent.

B. A blessing for the reader
1.In the early church, one person read Scripture aloud to the congregation.
2.Because Revelation is challenging, God especially encourages the reader.
3.The preacher who expounds the book receives this blessing.

C. A blessing for the hearers and doers
1.Those who listen to this prophecy are blessed.
2.Those who keep, obey, and treasure its teachings are especially blessed.
3.This blessing is more valuable than discovering a rich uranium deposit.

III. THE SALUTATION WHICH JOHN BRINGS TO THE CHURCHES

A. Addressed to the seven churches of Asia Minor
1.These seven congregations represent the church in all ages.
2.The greeting applies to Christians everywhere.

B. The greeting
“Grace be unto you, and peace.”These blessings come from the Triune God:
1.From God the Father: “He which is, and which was, and which is to come.”
2.From the Seven Spirits — a symbol of the Holy Spirit in His fullness.
3.From Jesus Christ, described in three majestic titles:
 a.The Faithful Witness
 b.The Firstborn of the Dead
 c.The Ruler of the Kings of the Earth
Grace and peace flow only from Him.

IV. THE SONG OF PRAISE TO CHRIST

A. “Unto Him that loveth us”
1.Christ’s love is present, continuous, and personal.
2.John knows this love; every believer experiences it.
3.This is the heart of the gospel: Jesus loves His people.

B. “And washed or loosed us from our sins in His own blood”
1.He has freed us from guilt.
2.He has broken sin’s power.
3.This redemption came through His sacrificial death.

C. “And hath made us kings and priests unto God”
1.We belong to His kingdom.
2.We are His servants.
3.We draw near to God through Christ.

D. “To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”
1.This is the desire of every true Christian.
2.All glory and authority belong to Christ.
3.Amen — so let it be.

CONCLUSION

The introduction to Revelation reveals who speaks, why He speaks, how He speaks, and to whom He speaks.It lifts our eyes to Christ, the Faithful Witness, the risen Lord, the King of all kings.As we study this book, let us remember the promise:Blessed are those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy.

Sermon 261

SERMON 261 — REFORMATION OR FAMINE

Text: Amos 8:11–14 (Read 1–14)
Date: October 30, 1949
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Tomorrow is Reformation Day, when we commemorate the great 16th-century Reformation under Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli.To understand the significance of that Reformation—and the necessity of continual reform in every age—we turn to the warning spoken through Amos: a famine is coming.Not a famine of food, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD.This passage shows why reformation is always needed, and what happens when the Word of God is forsaken.

SUBJECT: REFORMATION OR FAMINE

I. THE NATURE OF THE REFORMATION NEEDED

A. Israel had forsaken the Word of God
1.The ten tribes separated themselves from Jerusalem.
2.They worshiped at Dan and Bethel in ways God had not commanded.
3.They rejected God’s Word and replaced it with religion of their own design.
4.Their views of God and salvation no longer matched His revealed truth.
5.The root of all their religious and social evils was departure from Scripture.“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

B. The Roman Catholic Church before the Reformation committed the same errors
1.The Bible was a closed, hidden book.
2.It was no longer the rule of faith and conduct.
3.Salvation was corrupted by human teachings:
 a.works righteousness,
 b.indulgences for money,
 c.traditions replacing Scripture.
4.The truth of justification by faith was buried under man-made doctrines.
5.The church needed a return to the Word of God.The Reformers cried, “Back to the Scriptures! Back to the Gospel!”

C. The same danger exists today
1.Churches again depart from the Word.
2.Many base salvation on personal goodness, vague ideas of God’s love, or financial support of the church.
3.Many treat membership as a matter of dues rather than faith.
4.Society solves problems without reference to Scripture.
5.God’s law is mocked, ignored, or rejected.
6.Once again, the call must be: Back to the Word of God!

II. THE FAMINE TO BE AVOIDED

Reformation is not optional.It is the alternative to judgment.

A. A famine of hearing the Word of the LORD
1.Not a famine of bread or water.
2.A famine of God’s truth.
3.People will listen, but hear no Word from God—only silence.
4.Like a radio blackout: the receiver is on, but nothing comes through.

B. The most terrible of all judgments
1.“Man shall not live by bread alone…”
2.Without God’s Word, a nation spiritually starves.
3.Like King Saul, who longed for a message from God but heard nothing.
4.When God withdraws His Word:
 people wander from sea to sea,
 they stagger north and east,
 but they cannot find the truth.

C. The tragedy upon the next generation
1.“The fair virgins and young men faint for thirst.”
2.Young people starve spiritually because their parents rejected the Word.
3.When Scripture is forsaken, youth perish with no foundation.
4.They fall before idols—empty substitutes created by a faithless society.

D. Israel experienced this famine
1.God withdrew His Word.
2.The prophets were silenced.
3.The people sought a message too late.
4.They perished for lack of divine truth.
5.Judgment fell exactly as God warned.

III. THE PRESENT THREAT

A. The Word of God is again neglected
1.In the nation, Scripture is removed from public life.
2.Schools no longer teach God’s truth.
3.Many churches preach moral uplift instead of the Gospel.

B. Unless America reforms, she will face the same famine
1.Without the Word, a nation collapses spiritually and morally.
2.Civilization cannot survive when the light of truth is extinguished.
3.Darkness deepens when God’s Word is removed.

C. Unless the church returns to Scripture, she will perish
1.The church lives only by the Word of God.
2.Without it, she becomes hollow, worldly, and dead.
3.Her lampstand is removed when she rejects the truth.

CONCLUSION

During the Reformation, God used His servants to call the world back to His Word — and the famine was prevented.What if the Reformers had remained silent?Europe would have been lost in darkness.What if we remain silent today?Unless there is a new Reformation — a turning back to Scripture — a famine is coming.The light will go out.The youth will faint.Civilization will decay.And the judgment of God will fall.Let us return to the Word of God while it is still day.

Sermon 260

SERMON 260 — A LIVING CHURCH

Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Date: October 12, 1947
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians reveals a remarkable church — a living church.In these opening verses, Paul describes how the church began, its spiritual character, the marks of its life, and why he gives thanks for it.Let us consider the characteristics of a true, living church.

SUBJECT: A LIVING CHURCH

I. A LIVING CHURCH IS REMEMBERED WITH GRATITUDE

A. Remembered by the men who labored there
1.This is shown in their warm salutation.
2.They know this congregation “in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
3.They seek for her grace and peace, indicating deep affection and spiritual concern.

B. Remembered in prayer and thanksgiving
1.Paul continually thanks God for this church, because her life is owed to God alone.
2.He remembers her faithfulness, shown in her work of faith, her labor of love, and her patience of hope.These three — faith, love, and hope — are jewels in a living congregation.

II. A LIVING CHURCH IS KNOWN TO BE AN ELECT CHURCH

A. Paul declares that he knows their election
1.Not because of a special revelation from heaven.
2.Not by reading names from a divine list.
3.But because their spiritual life revealed the marks of God’s electing grace.

B. How can election be recognized?
1.By the way the gospel comes to them
 a.It did not come merely in words.
 b.Paul felt the power of the Holy Spirit working as he preached.
 c.The Spirit applied the Word deeply to their hearts.
 d.The preaching brought full assurance — both to the preacher and the hearers.

2.By the way they received the gospel
 a.Their attitude showed spiritual hunger.
 b.They embraced the gospel in spite of affliction.
 c.Their joy in Christ was unmistakable.
 d.True reception of the gospel proves election.A living church always bears the marks of God’s sovereign grace.

III. A LIVING CHURCH IS A WITNESSING CHURCH

A. By the transformation in its members
1.They became imitators of Paul and of the Lord — Christ-like.
2.They showed joy amidst affliction — a powerful testimony.
3.Their changed lives were visible throughout Macedonia and Achaia.

B. By sounding forth the Word
1.The gospel “sounded out” from them — echoed everywhere.
2.Paul needed not to speak of them; others were already talking about the power of God displayed in their lives.
3.A living church cannot remain silent; it must tell others what Christ has done.

C. By their open testimony of conversion
1.They turned from idols to serve the living and true God.
2.They served God actively and gladly.
3.Their testimony was clear and unmistakable.No wonder they were known everywhere — their lives proclaimed the gospel.

IV. A LIVING CHURCH AWAITS THE RETURN OF CHRIST

A. This is a mark of every living church
1.Her eyes are fixed on heaven.
2.She looks with longing for the appearing of Jesus.
3.Her faith rests on the risen and returning Lord.

B. This hope fuels her strength
1.It inspires faithfulness in service.
2.It inspires self-denial.
3.It inspires missionary zeal.
4.It inspires holy living.The expectation of Christ’s return keeps the church awake and alive.

CONCLUSION

What a blessing to be known as a living church!But a living church is made of living members.Dead branches never make a living tree.

Let each of us ask:Am I alive in Christ?Is my church alive because I contribute true spiritual life to it?Do I show the marks of faith, love, hope, witness, and expectation?

May God grant that we, too, may be known as a living, Christ-expecting church.

Sermon 259

SERMON 259 — THE LORD AT THE CLOSED DOOR

Text: Revelation 3:20–22
Date: October 18, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

The message to the lukewarm church of Laodicea ends with one of the most striking and tender pictures in all of Scripture: Christ standing at a closed door, knocking.This reveals both the condition of the lukewarm church and the persistent love of Christ, who still seeks entrance.Let us consider this solemn and beautiful scene.

SUBJECT: THE LORD AT THE CLOSED DOOR

I. WHY THE DOOR IS CLOSED

A. It is the door of the lukewarm Christian
1.Christ is not inside this person’s life.
2.He is outside, though the church member assumes Christ is with him.
3.They consider themselves blessed, prosperous, and spiritually rich.
4.They are unaware that Christ, whom they claim to worship, has been shut out.

B. It is also the door of the lukewarm church
1.A congregation may be active, wealthy, and self-satisfied, yet Christ may stand outside.
2.A church can imagine itself a fine church while Christ is no longer present.
3.Worldliness, compromise, and self-righteousness have quietly barred the door.

C. The door was closed by them
1.Christ did not withdraw Himself willingly; He was pushed out.
2.Their pride, indifference, and worldly spirit shut Him out.
3.They did not notice His absence.

II. WHAT CHRIST DOES AT THE CLOSED DOOR

Though excluded, Christ does not walk away.

A. He stands at the door
1.He takes His place near the soul or church that shut Him out.
2.He remains; He does not turn His back.
3.This is a posture of longing and patience.

B. He knocks
1.His knocking includes warnings, chastisements, and convictions.
2.His providence shakes the heart.
3.His Spirit presses upon the conscience.
4.He makes His presence felt so that they may awaken to their need.

C. He calls
1.He speaks: “If any man hear My voice…”
2.His call comes through the gospel, the preaching of the Word.
3.He seeks admittance not for His benefit, but for theirs.
4.His voice pleads in love and warns in kindness.Will His voice be heard above the noise of worldly feasting and Christless religion?

III. WHAT CHRIST OFFERS TO THOSE WHO OPEN THE DOOR

A. I will come in to him
1.Christ Himself will enter; this is His promise.
2.He does not force the door open; He enters when welcomed.
3.His entrance brings life, warmth, joy, strength, and salvation.

B. And will sup with him, and he with Me
1.A picture of friendship and fellowship.
2.Christ becomes the host:
 • He provides the food,
 • He gives the blessing,
 • He supplies the joy.
3.The one inside has nothing; Christ brings everything.How empty the table is without Christ!How rich it becomes when He enters!

C. A promise of exaltation
1.To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne.
2.The one who opens the door triumphs over sin and indifference.
3.As Christ overcame and sat with the Father, so shall His people reign with Him.What an honor and what a destiny!

D. A final appeal
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.This message is not only for Laodicea, but for every church and every believer.

CONCLUSION

Next Sunday, Christ says, the Lord’s Supper will be celebrated.But will Christ Himself be present in your life?You may sit at the table, but Christ may still be standing outside the door of your heart.If you are lukewarm:Repent.Hear His voice.Open the door.He is knocking still.

Sermon 258

SERMON 258 — THE INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF REVELATION

Text: Revelation 1:1–8
Preached: June 28, 1970 (also referenced: 1-8-50; 2-16-64)
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Tonight we begin a series of sermons on the opening chapters of the great book of Revelation.Before we may understand the visions, we must understand the introduction, for it tells us where this book comes from, to whom it is given, what it contains, and who will be blessed through it.Let us look together at these opening eight verses.

SUBJECT: THE INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF REVELATION

I. THE INFORMATION GIVEN ABOUT THIS BOOK

A. The title — The Revelation of Jesus Christ
1.It comes from Christ.
2.It concerns Christ.
3.It is given in the form of a prophecy.
4.The revelation is from the triune God: from the Father, through the Son, by an angel, to John, for His servants.John is the faithful recorder of the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.

B. The purpose — to show things which must shortly come to pass
1.Must indicates certainty; nothing can prevent their fulfillment.
2.Shortly means the events are imminent; the last age has already begun.
3.The revelation unfolds God’s plan from the ascension of Christ until His return.

II. THE ENCOURAGEMENT GIVEN TO THOSE WHO STUDY REVELATION

This book begins with a beatitude, the first of seven in Revelation.

A. A promised blessing
1.God Himself pronounces a blessing on this study.
2.It assures us the effort will be profitable.
3.This is true of all Scripture, but here it is explicitly promised.

B. A blessing on the reader
1.In the early churches, one person publicly read Scripture to the congregation.
2.A blessing is promised to this reader.
3.The difficulty of Revelation makes this encouragement especially helpful.

C. A blessing on the hearers and keepers
1.Those who listen to this prophecy are blessed.
2.Those who keep it — obey it, treasure it — are especially blessed.
3.This blessing is more precious than the discovery of a rich vein of uranium.

III. THE SALUTATION FROM JOHN

A. Addressed to the seven churches of Asia Minor
1.These are representative churches.
2.The greeting extends to the entire church of Christ in every age.

B. The greeting: Grace be unto you, and peace
This comes:
1.From God the Father — He who is, who was, and who is to come.
2.From the seven Spirits — a symbolic description of the Holy Spirit in His fullness.
3.From Jesus Christ, described in three titles:
 • The Faithful Witness,
 • The Firstborn of the Dead,
 • The Ruler of the Kings of the Earth.
All grace and all peace flow from Him.

IV. A SONG OF PRAISE TO CHRIST

A. Unto Him that loveth us
1.Christ’s love is present and continuous.
2.All believers experience it.
3.Jesus loves me, this I know.

B. And loosed us from our sins
1.He has freed us from sin’s power.
2.He has removed sin’s curse.
3.He did this by His own blood.

C. And made us a kingdom, priests unto God
1.We belong to His kingdom.
2.We are His servants.
3.We draw near to God through Christ.

D. To Him be glory and dominion forever
1.This is the desire of every true saint.
2.Christ alone deserves all glory.
3.Amen — let it be so.

CONCLUSION

The introduction to Revelation gives us the source of the book, the purpose of the book, the blessing attached to the book, and a vision of Christ that should fill every Christian with hope.May we approach this series with reverence and eagerness, for a special blessing is promised to all who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy.

Sermon 257

SERMON 257 — GOD’S JUDGMENT UPON SPIRITUAL APOSTASY

Text: Amos 8:1–14
Approx. Date: Late 1940s–early 1950s
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

The prophet Amos brings a solemn warning of coming judgment upon Israel.Their sins, especially their rejection of God’s Word, would lead to national ruin.This passage teaches the danger of spiritual apostasy and the certainty of God’s judgment upon it.

SUBJECT: GOD’S JUDGMENT UPON SPIRITUAL APOSTASY

I. THE CAUSE OF GOD’S JUDGMENT

A. Israel’s religious corruption
1.Their worship was man-made, centered in Bethel and Dan.
2.They blended true religion with false religion.
3.They performed outward ceremonies without heart devotion.
4.Their religion was convenient, comfortable, and corrupt.

B. Their moral corruption
1.Dishonesty in business — false balances, deceitful measures.
2.Oppression of the poor.
3.Greed disguised as piety: When will the Sabbath be over so we may sell grain?
4.Their lives contradicted the worship they professed.

C. Their spiritual apostasy
1.They rejected the prophets.
2.They silenced the voice of God.
3.They substituted human ideas for divine truth.
When the Word of God is despised, judgment becomes inevitable.

II. THE NATURE OF GOD’S JUDGMENT

A. God swears by the excellency of Jacob
1.His judgment is certain.
2.It will not be reversed.
3.The nation has crossed a moral line.

B. National calamities
1.Earthquakes.
2.Darkness at noon.
3.Mourning throughout the land.
4.Joy turned to lamentation.

C. Personal tragedies
1.The strong will faint.
2.The young will perish.
3.Families will be broken.
Sin brings sorrow, and apostasy brings destruction.

III. THE MOST TERRIBLE JUDGMENT OF ALL

A. A famine of hearing the Word of the Lord
1.Not food, not water, but God’s voice withdrawn.
2.The most dreadful punishment possible.
3.Without God’s Word, all hope dies.

B. The people will seek a word from God, but not find it
1.They will run from sea to sea.
2.They will wander north and east.
3.They will search everywhere for a message from heaven.
4.But it will be too late.

C. The youth will faint for thirst
1.They suffer because their fathers rejected the Word.
2.When one generation despises Scripture, the next generation perishes from spiritual starvation.

D. They will fall at the feet of idols
1.Idols cannot save.
2.Idols cannot speak.
3.Idols cannot answer in the day of judgment.

CONCLUSION

The message of Amos speaks powerfully to our present day.When God’s Word is rejected, judgment follows.When Scripture is silenced, nations fall.When truth is despised, the youth faint for lack of it.The only remedy is repentance and a return to the Word of God.Let us heed the warning.Let us cling to Scripture.Let us turn from apostasy before famine comes.

Sermon 256

SERMON 256 — READING GOD’S WORD AND KEEPING IT

Text: Revelation 1:1–3
Approx. Date: Early 1950s
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Revelation begins by emphasizing the origin, purpose, and urgency of the prophecy.The Lord pronounces a special blessing upon those who read, hear, and keep the words of this book.This passage teaches us the importance of Scripture in the life of the believer and the life of the church.

SUBJECT: READING GOD’S WORD AND KEEPING IT

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF READING GOD’S WORD

A. God gave this revelation for His servants
1.It comes from Jesus Christ, through the angel, to John.
2.It concerns things that must shortly come to pass.
3.It is given for the instruction and comfort of believers.

B. A blessing is pronounced upon the reader
1.In early churches Scripture was read aloud to the congregation.
2.The public reader is specially encouraged — a difficult book requires courage and clarity.
3.God promises that reading His Word is profitable and spiritually rewarding.

C. This applies to all Scripture
1.All Scripture is given by inspiration of God.
2.All of it is profitable — doctrine, reproof, correction, instruction.
3.Revelation simply highlights this truth with a direct promise.

II. THE IMPORTANCE OF HEARING GOD’S WORD

A. Hearing requires attention and reverence
1.Many hear sounds without receiving truth.
2.Christ repeatedly says, He that hath an ear, let him hear.
3.The blessing falls upon those who truly take the message to heart.

B. Hearing with faith
1.Faith comes by hearing the Word of God.
2.The Holy Spirit uses the preached Word to open hearts.
3.The early Christians listened with eagerness and expectation.

C. Hearing involves responsibility
1.To ignore the message increases guilt.
2.To misuse or twist Scripture invites judgment.
3.To receive it humbly brings blessing.

III. THE IMPORTANCE OF KEEPING GOD’S WORD

A. Not hearers only, but doers
1.The blessing is for those who keep the things written.
2.Keeping means believing, obeying, applying, and living according to the teaching.

B. This book contains warnings and promises
1.Warnings against unbelief, apostasy, compromise, worldliness.
2.Promises of comfort, victory, and eternal hope.

C. The time is at hand
1.This gives urgency to obedience.
2.The events foretold begin immediately and continue until Christ returns.
3.Every generation must be ready.

CONCLUSION

What a blessing and what a responsibility to have God’s Word.Read it with reverence.Hear it with faith.Keep it with obedience.Then the promise of Revelation 1:3 becomes yours: Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.

Sermon 255

SERMON 255 — A FAMINE OF HEARING THE WORD OF THE LORD

Text: Amos 8:11–14 (Read 1–14)
Approx. Date: Late 1940s
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Amos speaks of a terrible coming judgment: a famine — not of bread or water, but of hearing the Word of the Lord.This famine is the direct result of rejecting God’s Word.It happened to Israel.It nearly happened to Europe before the Reformation.It threatens our own nation today.

SUBJECT: A FAMINE OF HEARING THE WORD OF THE LORD

I. THE ROOT OF THE COMING FAMINE

A. Israel forsook God’s Word
1.They abandoned the place of true worship.
2.They rejected God’s prophets.
3.They invented a religion of their own making.
4.Their doctrine no longer agreed with truth.
5.False prophets multiplied.
6.They trusted in ceremonies instead of obedience and faith.Departing from God’s Word always leads to famine.

B. History repeats itself before the Reformation
1.The Bible was a forbidden and closed book.
2.The Church substituted man’s doctrine for God’s.
3.Human merit replaced Christ’s righteousness.
4.Salvation was commercialized — indulgences for sale.
5.Scripture was no longer the rule of faith and conduct.Reformation became necessary or famine would fall on Europe.

C. Today the same conditions exist
1.The Bible is ignored or despised.
2.People base salvation on human goodness or vague spirituality.
3.Many rely on contributions rather than conversion.
4.God’s Word is disregarded in political, social, and moral issues.Unless there is Reformation, the same famine will come again.

II. THE NATURE OF THE FAMINE

A. Not a famine of food or water
Israel had known such famines before.This famine is far worse.

B. A famine of hearing the Word of the Lord
1.God withdraws His voice.
2.No answer from heaven — even when people desperately seek one.
3.Like a wartime radio blackout — silence, no message, only static.
4.The Word may still be read aloud, but God’s voice is absent.Man cannot live without God’s Word.When it is gone, the soul starves.

C. The tragic results
1.People roam from sea to sea seeking a Word from God — too late.
2.Youth faint from spiritual starvation because their fathers rejected Scripture.
3.They collapse at the feet of their idols.
4.They perish without hope.

III. THE PRESENT THREAT

A. God’s Word is ignored today
1.In the nation, in the schools, in politics, and daily life.
2.In churches where the Bible is no longer preached.
3.In homes where Scripture is not read.

B. Without repentance, famine is inevitable
1.No nation can survive without God’s Word.
2.No church can live without it.
3.No family can thrive in darkness.
4.No soul can be saved apart from it.

CONCLUSION

The Reformation saved Europe from famine because people returned to God’s Word.If our generation refuses, the same famine will come upon us.The darkness deepens, hope dies, and souls perish when the Word of God is removed.Let us return to Scripture — or we will surely face the famine Amos foretold.

Sermon 254

SERMON 254 — THE NATURE OF THE REFORMATION NEEDED

Text: Amos 8:11–14 (Read 1–14)
Date: October 30, 1949
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Tomorrow we celebrate Reformation Day, recalling the great revival of biblical truth in the 16th century under Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli.This Scripture confronts us with a solemn warning — a famine is coming.Not a famine of food or water, but a famine of hearing the Word of the Lord.This famine fell on Israel when she forsook God’s Word.It threatened Europe before the Reformation.It threatens America today.

SUBJECT: THE NATURE OF THE REFORMATION NEEDED

I. THE NATURE OF THE REFORMATION NEEDED

A. Israel had forsaken the Word of God
1.They abandoned Jerusalem as the center of worship.
2.They worshiped at Dan and Bethel according to their own ideas.
3.They rejected the Word of God and the prophets.
4.Their views of God and salvation were corrupted.
5.False prophets flourished.
6.They trusted in ceremonies and sacrifices rather than repentance.
7.Their religion was outward, man-made, and spiritually empty.The forsaking of God’s Word was the root of all their religious and social evils.

B. Before the 16th-century Reformation
1.Scripture was a closed book.
2.Human traditions replaced biblical authority.
3.The teachings of salvation were corrupted:
  a.Works replaced grace.
  b.Human merit replaced Christ’s merit.
  c.Indulgences replaced repentance.
4.The Bible needed to be restored as the final rule of faith and life.The Reformers cried: “Back to the Word of God!”Unlike Israel, the people of Europe heeded the call.

C. Today — the same departure occurs
1.Churches again forsake Scripture.
2.Many base salvation on:
  a.personal goodness,
  b.vague ideas of God’s kindness apart from Christ,
  c.financial contributions rather than repentance and faith.
3.God’s Word is excluded from daily life, education, morality, and public life.
4.God calls again: Return to the Word.

II. THE FAMINE TO BE AVOIDED

A. A famine of hearing God’s Word
1.Not a famine of bread or water.
2.A famine of hearing the Word of the Lord.
3.God withdrawing His voice — the most dreadful judgment.
4.Like wartime radio blackouts — the radio is on, but no message comes.
5.People listen, but cannot hear God’s Word.
Why is this terrible?
  a.Man shall not live by bread alone.
  b.Without the Word of God, spiritual life dies.
  c.Saul experienced this famine when God no longer answered him.
  d.Where God’s Word is withdrawn, the people perish.

B. The consequences
1.People search desperately for a word from God, but too late.
2.Youth faint from spiritual starvation because their fathers rejected God’s Word.
3.They collapse at the feet of dumb idols of their own making.
4.There they perish.

C. Its present threat
1.God’s Word is despised today.
2.Unless America returns to Scripture, it will spiritually perish.
3.Unless the church faithfully preaches Scripture, it also will perish.

CONCLUSION

The Reformation saved Europe from famine because people returned to Scripture.Imagine the darkness if they had not listened.Imagine the darkness if we do not.When God’s Word is removed: darkness deepens, morality collapses, youth perish, hope dies, confusion reigns.Reformation or famine — this is still the choice before us.

Sermon 253

SERMON 253 — A LIVING CHURCH

Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Date: October 12, 1947 (also preached 1950 and 1964)
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

1.The founding of the church at Thessalonica.
2.The time and place of Paul’s writing.
3.The remarkable nature of this congregation.

SUBJECT: A LIVING CHURCH

I. A LIVING CHURCH IS REMEMBERED WITH GRATITUDE

A. By the men who labored among her
1.This is seen in Paul’s heartfelt salutation.
2.They knew her as being in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3.They desired grace and peace for her.

B. Remembered in prayer and thanksgiving
1.God is thanked for her, for she owes her life to Him.
2.She is remembered for her work of faith, her labor of love, and her patience of hope.

II. A LIVING CHURCH IS KNOWN TO BE AN ELECT CHURCH

A. Paul declares he knows their election
1.Not a man-made congregation but God-formed.
2.Composed of men, women, and children chosen by God.
3.Every truly living church is an elect church.

B. How can this be known?
It is not learned by special revelation, but by:

1.The way the gospel came to them
a.Paul sensed while preaching that his words reached their hearts.
b.He felt the working of the Holy Spirit as he preached.
c.The gospel came in power and in the Holy Spirit.
d.Both Paul and the Thessalonians were given assurance.

2.The way they received the gospel
Their believing, obeying, and embracing of the truth confirmed their election.

III. A LIVING CHURCH IS A WITNESSING CHURCH

A. They showed the transforming power of the gospel
1.They became followers of Paul and of the Lord.
2.They received the Word with joy amid suffering.
3.Their changed lives were known throughout Macedonia and Achaia.

B. They broadcast the Word of the Lord
1.They sounded it forth and could not be silent.
2.Their witness was so strong that Paul needed not add anything; their lives proclaimed the gospel.

C. Their witness showed a powerful transformation
1.They turned from idols to God.
2.They turned from dead worship to the living God.
3.They served God actively and faithfully.

IV. A LIVING CHURCH AWAITS JESUS’ RETURN

A. A mark of a living church
1.She keeps her eyes on heaven.
2.She looks forward to Christ’s coming.
3.Her faith rests in the living Christ who shall return.

B. The secret of her power
1.This hope inspires faithfulness.
2.It promotes self-denial.
3.It fuels missionary zeal.
4.It encourages godly living.

CONCLUSION

Is it not a glorious distinction to be called a living church.Are we alive.Let us pray and labor that God may regard us also as a living, Christ-expecting congregation.Remember: a living church requires living members.A dead membership can never form a living church.Dead branches cannot make a living tree.

Sermon 252

SERMON 252 — THE NATURE OF THE COMING FAMINE

Text: Amos 8:11–14 (Read 1–14)
Date: late 1940s
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

The prophet Amos warns Israel of a coming famine, not of bread nor of water, but of hearing the words of the Lord.This warning connects directly to the meaning of Reformation: when the Word of God is rejected, famine follows.

SUBJECT: THE NATURE OF THE COMING FAMINE

I. THE NATURE OF THE REFORMATION NEEDED

A. The ten tribes had forsaken the Word of God
1.They left Jerusalem to worship at Dan and Bethel.
2.They created a religion contrary to God’s revealed will.
3.They rejected God’s prophets.
4.Their doctrines and worship no longer agreed with truth.
5.They were destroyed for lack of knowledge.
6.Salvation was sought in outward forms rather than repentance.
7.Their religion was man-made and spiritually empty.
Forsaking the Word of God was the root of all their evils.

B. Before the Reformation of the 1500s
1.Scripture was closed and forbidden.
2.Human authority replaced divine authority.
3.Salvation truths were buried under tradition.
4.Self-righteousness replaced Christ’s righteousness.
5.Indulgences replaced repentance.
6.People were taught salvation could be purchased.
The Reformers cried, Back to the Word of God, and many listened.

C. Today the same departure occurs
1.Churches drift from the Bible.
2.People base salvation on goodness or vague kindness instead of Christ.
3.Some treat church contributions as a substitute for faith and repentance.
4.Scripture is excluded from education, politics, and moral issues.
5.God again calls us back to His Word.

II. THE FAMINE TO BE AVOIDED

A. A definite warning
1.Israel rejected God’s Word; famine came.
2.Europe rejected Scripture; darkness spread until the Reformation.
3.When Scripture is rejected, famine always follows.

B. The famine itself
1.Not a famine of food.
2.A famine of hearing the Word of the Lord.
3.People will listen but not hear God’s voice.
4.Like wartime radio blackouts with only static.
5.This is terrible because man shall not live by bread alone but by every word from God.
6.Saul experienced this famine when God no longer answered him.
7.Where the Word is withheld, spiritual death results.

C. The tragic consequences
1.People wander desperately seeking a word from God, but too late.
2.Young people faint spiritually because their fathers rejected Scripture.
3.They fall before dumb idols they created.
4.There they perish.

D. The present danger
1.God’s Word is despised or ignored today.
2.If America does not return to Scripture, it will perish.
3.If churches do not preach the Bible faithfully, they will die.

CONCLUSION

In the Reformation, returning to the Word of God prevented famine.Had people refused, Europe would be in deep darkness today.Imagine how dark our nation will be if we do not return.When the Word of God is removed, darkness spreads, families crumble, hope dies, souls perish.Reformation or famine.The choice remains.

Sermon 251

SERMON 251 — REFORMATION OR FAMINE

Text: Amos 8:11–14 (Read 1–14)
Date: October 30, 1949
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Tomorrow is Reformation Day.We commemorate the 16th-century Reformation under Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli.Our text from Amos warns of a coming famine, not of bread, but of hearing the Word of the Lord.This warning shows both the importance of the Reformation and the need for a new Reformation today.

SUBJECT: REFORMATION OR FAMINE

I. THE NATURE OF THE REFORMATION NEEDED

A. In the days of the ten tribes of Israel
1. They forsook God’s Word.
2. They established their own forms of worship at Dan and Bethel.
3. They rejected the teachings of Scripture.
4. Their views of God and salvation no longer agreed with truth.
5. God said, My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
6. False prophets flourished.
7. They sought salvation in ceremonies and sacrifices rather than repentance and faith.
Forsaking the Word of God was the root of Israel’s religious and social evils.

B. Before the 16th-century Reformation
1. The Bible was closed and not the rule of faith and life.
2. Human authority replaced Scripture.
3. Rome forsook biblical teaching about salvation:
  a. Works instead of grace
  b. Self-righteousness instead of Christ’s righteousness
  c. Money for indulgences instead of Christ’s finished work
4. A return to the Bible was necessary.The Reformers’ cry was: Back to the Word of God.

C. Today
1. Churches again depart from Scripture.
2. People base hope of salvation on their own goodness, vague ideas of God’s kindness, or church dues.
3. Scripture is ignored in moral and social issues.
4. God calls us again to return to His Word.

II. THE FAMINE TO BE AVOIDED

A. The choice: Reformation or famine
1. This was Israel’s choice in Amos’s day.
2. It was Europe’s choice in the 1500s.
3. It is America’s choice today.

B. The nature of the famine
1. Not bread or water.
2. A famine of hearing the Word of the Lord.
3. Like a blackout where all stations are silent.
4. People hear words, but not God’s Word.
This is frightening.Without the Word, spiritual life dies.Saul experienced this famine when God no longer spoke to him.

C. Its tragic consequences
1. People seek a word from God, but too late.
2. Youth faint from spiritual starvation because their fathers rejected God’s Word.
3. They fall before dumb idols.
4. There they perish.

D. A real threat today
1. God’s Word is despised or neglected.
2. If America does not return to Scripture, it will perish.
3. If churches do not preach the Bible, they will die.

CONCLUSION

In the Reformation, returning to the Word prevented famine.Had people refused, Europe would be in darkness today.Imagine how dark our nation will become if we do not turn back.When the Word is removed, civilization collapses, darkness spreads, hope dies, confusion reigns.Reformation or famine.The choice remains.

Sermon 250

SERMON 250 — THE LORD AT THE CLOSED DOOR

Text: Revelation 3:20–22
Date: October 18, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

This passage continues the Lord’s message to the lukewarm church of Laodicea.It reveals the astonishing love of Christ for a church that has shut Him out.Laodicea thinks everything is well.She enjoys her feasting, wealth, and worship, and feels she lacks nothing.Yet worldliness has shut Christ out, and He now stands outside the closed door of her heart and congregation.Let us behold that solemn scene.

SUBJECT: THE LORD AT THE CLOSED DOOR

I. WHERE HE STANDS

A. He stands at the door of the church of Laodicea
1. This is a church where Christ is no longer inside.
2. A tragic condition — a church without Christ.

B. He stands at the door of each lukewarm Christian
1. They imagine Christ is near and their religion alive.
2. Yet Christ is outside, excluded from their heart and life.
3. They feel certain they lack nothing, yet Christ is not with them.

C. He stands seeking entrance
1. He desires to enter — not because He needs them, but because they need Him.
2. Their closed door shows what they have done through pride, carelessness, and worldliness.
3. He deals with them as rational beings; He will not force the door.

II. WHAT HE DOES THERE

A. He stands — showing patience and longing
1. He does not turn away at once.
2. He waits for repentance.

B. He knocks
1. Making known His desire to enter.
2. His knock may be chastisement, warning, providence, or the preached Word.

C. He calls out at the door
1. Asking to be admitted.
2. Warning of danger if He is not received.
3. The gospel message is His voice.

D. The question
Will His voice be heard above the noise of worldly feasting and Christless worship inside?

III. WHAT HE OFFERS TO THOSE WHO OPEN THE DOOR

Though He pleads like a beggar, He is the One who possesses everything they need.They feast on emptiness; He brings true riches.

A. He seeks nothing from them
1. They have nothing to offer.
2. He comes entirely for their well-being.

B. “I will come in to him”
1. He Himself enters, bringing forgiveness, life, and strength.
2. The favor is His, not theirs.

C. “And will sup with him, and he with Me”
1. Restored fellowship — the sweetest communion.
2. He is the Host, not the guest.
3. His feast far surpasses the empty table inside.

D. He will exalt those who open the door
1. Opening the door is victory over sin and self.
2. He will seat them with Him on His throne, as He overcame and sat down with His Father.

CONCLUSION

Next Sunday is the Lord’s Supper.Will Christ be present with you.You may sit in church, yet Christ may still be outside your heart.Open the door.Call upon Him.Turn to Him in repentance and faith.He still stands and knocks.

Sermon 249

SERMON 249 — THE INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF REVELATION

Text: Revelation 1:1–8 (Read 1–11)
Dates referenced: June 28, 1970; January 8, 1950; February 16, 1964
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

This is the first sermon of a series based on Revelation chapters 1–3.Tonight we meditate on the introduction to this great book.

SUBJECT: THE INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF REVELATION

I. THE INFORMATION IT GIVES ABOUT THE CONTENT

A. The title: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
1. It comes from Him and concerns Him.
2. It is prophecy.
3. It is given by God, the Triune God.
4. It is given to Christ’s servants, the believers.
5. It is revealed through an angel.
6. It was shown to John, who faithfully bore witness to the Word of God.

B. It tells of things which must shortly come to pass
1. Must indicates that nothing can prevent their fulfillment.
2. Shortly means events would begin immediately; we are in the last hour.
3. These events unfold according to God’s plan in history.

II. IT OFFERS ENCOURAGEMENT TO THOSE WHO STUDY IT

A. It contains the first of seven beatitudes in Revelation
1. A blessing is pronounced.
2. Promised by God Himself.
3. Study of this prophecy will be spiritually profitable.

B. A blessing to the reader
1. The one who read the book aloud to the congregation.
2. The preacher who expounds it.
3. Given the difficulty of Revelation, this encouragement is necessary.

C. A blessing to the hearers
1. Those who truly listen.
2. Especially those who keep the words of this prophecy.
3. This blessing is worth more than discovering a rich uranium source.

III. IT BRINGS THE SALUTATION OF JOHN

A. He greets the seven churches of Asia Minor
1. Representative of the Church Universal.
2. Though addressed to specific congregations, the greeting applies to all believers.

B. The blessing of Grace and Peace
1. Grace: God’s unmerited favor in Christ.
2. Peace: reconciliation with God through Christ.

C. From the Triune God
1. The Eternal One: Who was, and is, and is to come.
2. The Seven Spirits: the fullness of the Holy Spirit.
3. Jesus Christ:
  The faithful witness,
  The firstborn of the dead,
  The ruler of the kings of the earth.

IV. IT RAISES A SONG OF PRAISE TO CHRIST

A. Unto Him who loves us
1. John knows this love personally.
2. Us includes all believers.
3. Every child of God may say, Jesus loves me.

B. Who loosed us from our sins by His blood
1. Freed us from the power of sin.
2. Delivered us from sin’s curse.
3. Did so by shedding His own blood.

C. Who made us a kingdom and priests
1. Christ is our King.
2. We are His subjects.
3. We are priests to serve His God and Father.

D. To Him be glory and dominion forever
1. This is the desire of every believer.
2. All glory belongs to Christ.
3. All dominion is His.

Sermon 248

SERMON 248 — A LIVING CHURCH

Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Date: October 12, 1947
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

1. The founding of the church.
2. The time and place of writing.
3. The peculiar nature of this church.

SUBJECT: A LIVING CHURCH

I. A LIVING CHURCH IS REMEMBERED WITH GRATITUDE

A. By the men who labored there
1. This gratitude is revealed in the salutation.
2. They knew her as being in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3. They desired grace and peace for her.

B. Remembered in prayer and thanksgiving
1. God is thanked for her, because she owes her life to Him.
2. Remembered for her faithfulness:
  Her work of faith,
  Her labor of love,
  Her patience of hope.
  Beautiful remarks indeed.

II. A LIVING CHURCH IS KNOWN TO BE AN ELECT CHURCH

A. Paul declares he knows their election
1. Not a mere outward, man-made church, but God-ordained.
2. Made up of men, women, and children chosen of God.
3. A living church is always an elect church.

B. How can this be known
Not by a voice from heaven, nor by special revelation, but in the same way we may know our own election.

1. By the way the gospel came to them
  a. Paul sensed while preaching that the words were reaching deeper than the ears.
  b. He felt the operation of the Holy Spirit in the preaching.
  c. It was not a matter of mere words — the gospel came in power and in the Holy Spirit.
  d. They were blessed with assurance.

2. By the way they received the gospel
  Their response — taking it to heart, trusting in it — proved their election.

III. A LIVING CHURCH IS A WITNESSING CHURCH

A. Her members demonstrated the transforming power of the gospel
1. They became imitators of Paul and of the Lord.
2. They received the Word with joy even in affliction.
3. Their testimony became known throughout Macedonia and Achaia.

B. They broadcast the Word of the Lord
1. They sounded it forth.
2. Their witness was so clear that Paul needed not speak — they advertised the gospel by their transformed lives.

C. Their witness showed a tremendous transformation
1. They turned from idols to God.
2. From dead idol-worship to serving the living God.
3. They served Him actively and faithfully.

IV. A LIVING CHURCH AWAITS JESUS’ RETURN

A. This is a mark of a living church
1. She keeps her eyes on heaven.
2. She looks forward to Christ’s second coming.
3. Her faith is centered on the living Christ who shall come again.

B. This expectation is the secret of her power
1. It inspires faithfulness.
2. It inspires self-denial.
3. It inspires missionary zeal.
4. It inspires a godly life.

CONCLUSION

Is it not wonderful to be known as a living church.Are we alive.Let us pray and work that, in God’s eyes, we too may be known as a living, Christ-expecting church.Remember: a living church implies living members.A group of dead members can never form a living church.Dead branches will never make a living tree.

Sermon 247

SERMON 247 — REFORMATION OR FAMINE

Text: Amos 8:11–14 (Read 1–14)
Date: October 30, 1949
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Tomorrow is Reformation Day, when we commemorate the beginning of the great religious Reformation of the 16th century under Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli.From Amos’s warning of a coming famine in Israel, we see the meaning and necessity of Reformation — for Israel, for the 16th century, and for today.

SUBJECT: REFORMATION OR FAMINE

I. THE NATURE OF THE REFORMATION NEEDED

A. Israel (the Ten Tribes) had forsaken the Word of God
1. They had separated themselves from Jerusalem and established worship elsewhere (Dan, Bethel).
2. They rejected the Word of God and worshiped according to their own ideas.
3. Their views of God and salvation no longer agreed with the truth.
4. God said, My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
5. False prophets multiplied.
6. They sought salvation in outward forms, sacrifices, and ceremonies — not in true repentance and faith.Thus the forsaking of God’s Word was the root of their religious and social evils.

B. Before the 16th-century Reformation, the Roman Catholic Church also departed from the Word of God
1. The Bible was closed and hidden.It was not the rule of faith and conduct.Church councils and popes substituted their authority.
2. They forsook Bible teaching on salvation and replaced it with human doctrines:
  Salvation by works,
  Self-righteousness instead of Christ’s righteousness,
  Indulgences purchased with money,
  Rituals instead of repentance and heart-renewal.
3. The Word of God needed to be reinstated as the final rule of faith.The Reformers cried, Back to the Word of God.Back to salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone.Back to the truth that salvation cannot be bought or earned.Unlike Israel, the people of Europe heeded the call — and Reformation came.

C. Today, the same need exists
1. Churches again are departing from the Word of God.
2. Many base their hope of salvation on what Scripture does not teach:
  Their own goodness,
  The vague goodness of God apart from Christ,
  Their financial contributions to the church.
3. Many today suppress or disregard Scripture in solving social problems.God’s law is mocked, rejected, ignored.
4. Again God calls the nation and the church: Back to the Word of God.

II. THE FAMINE TO BE AVOIDED

Either Reformation — or famine.

A. This was true in Amos’s day, in the 16th century, and it is true now
Israel refused Reformation — and famine came.

B. The nature of the famine
1. Not food or water.
2. A famine of hearing the Word of the Lord.
3. Like a wartime blackout — you turn on the radio and hear only static.
4. People will listen for the Word, but will not hear it.A terrible experience indeed.

Why is it terrible
1. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord.
2. Consider King Saul: when God no longer answered him, he was driven in despair to the witch of Endor.
3. When God’s Word is withdrawn, the people perish.
4. This is exactly what happened to Israel.

C. Its tragic consequences
1. The people search desperately for a Word from God — but it is too late.
2. Young people faint for lack of spiritual nourishment — because their fathers rejected God’s Word.
3. They collapse before the dumb idols they built when they turned from God.
4. In these idols they perish — exactly as God warned.

D. Its present threat
1. God’s Word is being suppressed today — in schools, homes, public life, and even in churches.
2. Unless America reforms and returns to God’s Word, the nation will perish spiritually.
3. Unless churches return to Scripture, preaching the Bible as God’s Word, the church will perish.
4. We face the same alternative as Israel: Reformation or famine.

CONCLUSION

During the Reformation, people returned to the Word of God — and famine was prevented.Imagine how dark Europe would be today had men not called the people back to Scripture — and had the people refused.Imagine how dark our nation will become if no Reformation takes place.When the light of God’s Word goes out, darkness deepens, civilization decays, hope dies, confusion reigns.How tragic that America, claiming to be a Christian nation, has removed God’s Word from public schools — and many even condemn the schools that still teach children to obey the one and only true God.Reformation or famine. The choice remains.

Sermon 246

SERMON 246 — A LIVING CHURCH

Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Date: October 12, 1947
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

1 Thessalonians is addressed to one of the outstanding churches of the New Testament.This sermon reviews the founding of the church, the time and place of Paul’s writing, and the peculiar nature and spiritual vitality of this congregation.

SUBJECT: A LIVING CHURCH

I. A LIVING CHURCH IS REMEMBERED WITH GRATITUDE

A. By the men who labored there
1. This is revealed in the salutation of Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy.
2. They knew the Thessalonian church as being in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ.
3. They seek grace and peace for her — a sign of affection and thanksgiving.

B. Remembered in prayer and thanksgiving
1. They thank God for her — for she owes her life and existence to God alone.
2. She is remembered for her faithfulness: her work of faith, her labor of love, her patience of hope.These are beautiful and unmistakable marks of spiritual life.

II. A LIVING CHURCH IS KNOWN TO BE AN ELECT CHURCH

A. Paul states he knows their election
1. Not a man-made church, but one established by God.
2. Made up of people chosen of God.
3. Election is always behind a truly living church.

B. How can such election be known
1. Not by revelation from heaven.
2. Not by a special sign.
3. But in the same way a believer knows his own election — by how the gospel comes to him and how he responds to it.

C. Paul explains the evidence
1. The way the gospel came to them
a. It was more than words — it came in power.
b. Paul could sense the Holy Spirit applying the Word as he preached.
c. It penetrated beyond their ears — it reached their hearts.
d. They experienced assurance through the Holy Spirit.

2. The way they received the gospel
a. They embraced it wholeheartedly.
b. Their response revealed the inner working of God.

D. When we take the gospel to heart, and put our trust in it, this too is evidence of election

III. A LIVING CHURCH IS A WITNESSING CHURCH

A. By revealing the power of the gospel in daily life
1. They became imitators of Paul and of the Lord — Christlike in conduct.
2. They received the Word with joy, even in affliction.
3. Their faith was noticeable throughout Macedonia and Achaia.

B. They broadcast the Word of the Lord
1. They sounded it forth — could not keep silent about Christ.
2. They spread the gospel so effectively that Paul needed to add nothing — their testimony advertised both Paul and Christ.

C. They gave clear witness of a tremendous transformation
1. They turned from idols to God.
2. From dead idol worship to serving the living and true God.
3. They became active servants of God.

IV. A LIVING CHURCH AWAITS JESUS’ RETURN

A. A characteristic of a truly living church
1. She keeps her eyes on heaven.
2. She looks forward to Christ’s second coming.
3. Her faith is anchored in the living Christ who is to return.

B. This expectation is the secret of her spiritual power
1. It inspires faithfulness.
2. It motivates self-denial.
3. It fuels missionary zeal.
4. It cultivates a godly life.

CONCLUSION

Is it not wonderful to be known as a living church.But remember: a living church requires living members.A congregation of dead church members can never form a living church.Dead branches never make a living tree.Are you alive.

Sermon 245

SERMON 245 — THE LORD AT THE CLOSED DOOR

Text: Revelation 3:20–22
Date: October 18, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

This passage continues Christ’s message to the lukewarm church of Laodicea.It continues to reveal her tragedy — yet also Christ’s astonishing mercy.Even though their condition is nauseating to Him, and even though He has warned that He may “spew” them out, Christ still stands outside the door, pleading for entrance.This pictures the wonderful mercy of God, who has no pleasure in the death of sinners, but that they repent and live.Let us consider the scene:

SUBJECT: THE LORD AT THE CLOSED DOOR

I. WHERE HE STANDS

A. He stands at the door of the church
1. A tragic picture — Christ outside His own church.
2. The church thinks all is well: services, sacraments, worship — assuming Christ is present.
3. Yet worldliness has shut Him out.
4. They do not realize He is no longer in their midst.

B. He stands at the door of the individual Christian
1. A professing Christian may shut Christ out of his life.
2. He imagines Christ is near because he attends worship outwardly.
3. Yet Christ may be outside his heart entirely.

C. He stands deliberately
1. To show them what they have done — they shut Him out.
2. He desires repentance and conversion.
3. He deals with them reasonably, appealing to will and conscience.

II. WHAT HE DOES AT THE DOOR

A. He stands pressing upon the door
His posture shows longing, desire, and persistence.

B. He knocks
1. Making His presence known.
2. His knock may come through chastisement, warnings, preaching, providence, conscience.
3. All reminding: “Christ is near — open the door.”

C. He calls
1. “If any man hear My voice…”
2. His voice is the gospel.
3. He pleads with sinners.
4. Yet will His voice rise above the noise of pleasure, self-satisfaction, and empty worship?

D. He waits
Though shut out and ignored — He still waits.

III. WHAT HE OFFERS TO THOSE WHO OPEN THE DOOR

A. He seeks nothing from them
1. Though appearing as a beggar, He needs nothing.
2. They are the beggars — poor, blind, naked.
3. Christ brings all they lack.

B. “I will come in to him”
1. He promises personal fellowship.
2. He is eager to enter.
3. The favor is entirely His, not the sinner’s.

C. “I will sup with him, and he with Me”
1. Supper means intimate fellowship.
2. Christ becomes the Host.
3. He brings the feast: forgiveness, peace, joy, strength, life.
4. Without Christ the table is empty; with Him the feast begins.

D. “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne”
1. Opening the door is victory — conquering sin and darkness.
2. Christ will exalt such a believer.
3. As He was exalted after conquering sin and death, the believer shares His glory.

CONCLUSION

Next Sunday the Lord’s Supper will be celebrated.Will the Lord be present with you.If lukewarm, you may come outwardly — yet Christ may still be outside your heart.What a tragedy.Repent.Open the door.Call upon the Lord in faith and repentance.Christ is still standing, knocking, calling.

Sermon 244

SERMON 244 — KIND ADVICE FOR THE LUKEWARM CHURCH

Text: Revelation 3:18–19
Date: October 4, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

The tragic condition of the lukewarm church — and the Lord’s terrible threat: “I will spue thee out of My mouth.”At first this seems final, as though the Lord were finished with her forever.Her condition is unbearable, and the saddest part is that she is unaware of her own spiritual misery.Yet, to our surprise, the Lord has not forsaken this church.He comes with kind advice — counsel that, if followed, will restore her and save her from destruction.Once more He shows that He has no pleasure in the death of sinners, but that they repent and live.

SUBJECT: KIND ADVICE FOR THE LUKEWARM CHURCH

I. IT IS THE LORD’S KIND ADVICE

A. He makes clear that He is the One speaking
1. The One they claim to love and trust.
2. He repeatedly says “I…”
3. Advice from One utterly reliable — the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness.
4. The same One who diagnosed their condition now gives the remedy.

B. It is gracious advice — undeserved
1. She deserved immediate rejection.
2. Grace moves Christ to seek her salvation.
3. “I counsel thee…” reveals mercy and tenderness.
4. There is still hope for her.
5. Christ comes as a helper, pointing out obstacles to salvation.
6. Though she has fallen, He has not abandoned her.

II. IT KINDLY OFFERS TO SATISFY ALL HER NEEDS

A. It shows what she lacks
1. What she thinks she possesses, she does not.
2. She is spiritually poor — she needs true riches.
3. She is spiritually naked — she needs white raiment.
4. She is spiritually blind — she needs eye-salve.

B. It shows where these blessings are found
1. “Of Me.”
2. Christ alone possesses what she lacks.
3. Her “wealth” was counterfeit.
4. His storehouse contains:
  a. Gold tried in the fire — true riches.
  b. White garments — righteousness.
  c. Eye-salve — spiritual understanding.

C. It shows how to obtain them
1. “Buy of Me…”
2. Like Isaiah 55 — buy without money.
3. To “buy” is to receive by faith.
4. All is a free gift of grace.

III. IT INDICATES THE LORD’S KIND INTEREST IN THEIR WELL-BEING

A. Love motivates His actions
1. Not hatred or indifference.
2. Love moves Him to speak, warn, and counsel.
3. Like a surgeon who cuts to heal.

B. Love moves Him to reprove
1. If He hated them, He would ignore them.
2. His rebuke is proof of His love.

C. Love moves Him to chastise
1. The form is unspecified, but discipline will come.
2. His purpose is correction and restoration.

D. Love moves Him to urge repentance
1. “Be zealous therefore…” — renewed spiritual earnestness.
2. “And repent.”Turn from lukewarmness, self-confidence, false security, and return to Christ.

CONCLUSION

Are you lukewarm.Here is Christ’s sound and kind advice — the only advice worth accepting.Notice the love of Christ: He warns, He counsels, He offers all spiritual riches, He disciplines, He urges repentance.But remember:This advice must be followed — or the threat will be carried out.

Sermon 243

SERMON 243 — THE LUKEWARM CHURCH

Text: Revelation 3:14–17
Date: September 27, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Laodicea was a prosperous city, located near both Mount Whitney and Death Valley—regions of extreme contrasts.The church there reflected a similar contrast: outward prosperity but inward spiritual poverty.This is the church about which the Lord says nothing good.The outstanding fact that strikes us is that the Lord calls her lukewarm.

SUBJECT: THE LUKEWARM CHURCH

I. THE LORD’S SELF-INTRODUCTION TO THIS CHURCH

A. He calls Himself “The Amen”
The One who is true, dependable, final — the One in whom all God’s promises are verified.

B. “The Faithful and True Witness”
The One who speaks truth perfectly and reveals the real condition of this church.

C. “The Beginning of the Creation of God”
Not the first created being, but the source and ruler of creation — the One with full authority over the church.

II. WHAT HER WORKS REVEAL

A. Works are the thermometer of spiritual life
1. The Lord judges a person or church by their works.
2. He reads these works perfectly; He is never deceived.
3. In each of the seven letters He evaluates by works.

B. They show she is not hot
1. No real love or active faith.
2. No zeal for the Lord.
3. Not diligent in doing what pleases God.Her spiritual life had no force or movement.

C. But she is not cold
1. Not totally ignorant of truth.
2. Not openly rejecting God.
3. Not fully heathen.
4. She has not abandoned worship altogether.

D. She is lukewarm
1. Lukewarm water is undrinkable and nauseating; so is lukewarm religion.
2. A condition of hypocrisy — pretending but not possessing.
3. Christ says He will spue her out — a graphic picture of disgust.
4. Her condition is revolting, pleasing in no way.

III. HER VAIN BOASTING

A. She has a very good opinion of herself
1. She does not feel lukewarm.
2. She is pleased with herself.
3. She thinks she is very good and faithful.
4. She feels spiritually safe and well.

B. She boasts of her riches
1. Likely a prosperous congregation with wealthy members.
2. She assumes her riches give her spiritual privileges.
3. She relies on material prosperity as proof of spiritual health.

C. She claims she lacks nothing
But this reveals she does not know her true condition.

D. Christ declares her real state
1. Wretched — like one unaware of danger.
2. Miserable — far from happy.
3. Poor — spiritually bankrupt.
4. Blind — unable to see sin or danger.
5. Naked — spiritually exposed while thinking she is well-clothed.

E. This makes her condition tragic
To think one is rich while being poor,clothed while naked,alive while dead —this is Laodicea’s tragedy.

CONCLUSION

Is not this church in a sad condition.Is it not terrible to believe you are rich, only to be told you are poor.How tragic to think you need nothing, yet to be in utter poverty.How about us.Are we lukewarm.Are we self-satisfied.Does prosperity blind our eyes.Christ’s diagnosis is honest and searching; may we hear it.

Sermon 242

SERMON 242 — THE BLESSED MISSIONARY CHURCH

Text: Revelation 3:9–13
Date: September 20, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

The outstanding remark made about the church at Philadelphia was that she was faithful in her calling to confess Christ before the world. The Lord’s first reward for this faithfulness was the opening of a door, offering the church opportunity to do successful missionary work.The remainder of the letter continues to show how blessed this church is. Therefore the subject is:

SUBJECT: THE BLESSED MISSIONARY CHURCH — GEZEGENDE ZENDINGSKERK

I. SHE IS BLESSED WITH FRUIT UPON HER LABORS — GEZEGEND MET VRUCHT OP HAAR ARBEID

A. Fruit is the most encouraging thing a laborer receives
1. This is true in farming: fruit rewards labor.
2. This is true spiritually: missionaries, ministers, and all who work in the Kingdom rejoice to see fruit upon their labors.

B. This fruit is a gift of Christ
1. Only Christ can give the increase; He promises to give it to this church.
2. He must have the praise for all successful mission work.
3. The remarkable promise here is this:
  a. Not only Gentiles,
  b. But even those of the synagogue of Satan — hostile Jews — will come repentant.
  c. The Lord Himself will turn their hearts.

C. This is victory — overcoming
1. Mission work is spiritual warfare: every convert is a loss to Satan and a victory for Christ’s church.
2. These hostile, lying Jews (Jews according to the flesh but not truly in spirit) will be defeated by the power of the gospel.
3. They shall come and worship before thy feet.
  a. Not idolatry,
  b. But symbolic of being humbled, conquered by God’s Word, and entering true worship.
  c. They shall be saved.

D. Her former enemies shall know that this church is loved by the Lord
1. These Jews had boasted that they were the loved people of God, despising Christians.
2. Christ will open their eyes — they shall know they were wrong.
3. They shall see that the church is indeed God’s people and will seek to share that love.

II. SHE IS BLESSED WITH PROMISED PROTECTION — GEZEGEND MET BELOOFDE BEWARING

A. This is the special reward for her faithfulness to the word of My patience
1. She held fast to the gospel.
2. She did not deny Christ crucified.
3. She would not depart from the truth.

B. Christ promises to keep her from the hour of trial
1. A trial that shall come upon all the world.
2. But she shall not experience it — she will be protected.
3. She does not need this trial; therefore Christ will spare her.
4. This teaches that all trials come under God’s providence and are fully controlled by Him.

C. But this does not mean her struggle is over
1. She cannot relax now as if already in heaven.
2. She has a crown within reach but must hold fast.
3. Christ comforts her: I come quickly.
  a. A threat to the ungodly,
  b. But sweet comfort to the faithful,
  c. Here, a promise of timely help and salvation.

III. SHE IS BLESSED WITH A PERMANENT PLACE IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD — GEZEGEND MET EEN BLIJVENDE PLAATS IN GODS TEMPEL

A. This blessing is for each individual member
1. He that overcometh.
2. Each must personally win his battle.
  a. No one can repent for you.
  b. No one can believe for you.
  c. No one can carry your responsibility or fight your struggle.

B. They shall be pillars in God’s temple
1. A thing of strength and beauty, yet not merely ornamental — eternally useful.
2. He shall go no more out.
  a. Permanent security,
  b. Everlasting nearness to God,
  c. Never removed.
3. As they were pillars in the church on earth, they shall be pillars forever.

IV. SHE IS BLESSED WITH WONDERFUL NAMES — GEZEGEND MET HEERLIJKE NAMEN

A. Christ Himself will write these names upon them
1. His writing cannot be erased.
2. He ensures it is done and authentic.

B. The name of My God
1. Indicating they belong to God — the God of Jesus Christ.
2. They are known of Him and know Him.

C. The name of the City of My God — the New Jerusalem
1. They belong to the eternal city.
2. They dwell in it forever.

D. The name of Christ — My new name
1. The name of the glorified Christ.
2. The name of the Lord of lords.
3. The seal of victory and everlasting honor.

CONCLUSION

What could be more blessed than this.Will we share these blessings.Will you, personally, share them.

Sermon 241

SERMON 241 — THE CHURCH WITH AN OPENED DOOR

Text: Revelation 3:7–8
Date: September 13, 1942
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

The sixth letter is addressed to the church at Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love. This too was a worldly heathen city. That its name was Philadelphia was not due to any actual spirit of brotherly love found there, but because it was named in honor of a ruler who had shown great love for his brother.The church in Philadelphia is like the church in Smyrna in that the Lord finds no fault in her, but only mentions her virtues. The outstanding virtue of this church seems to be her love for missions — she is a mission-minded church. She is active in the work the Lord has given His church to do. Let us hear what the Lord has to say about her.

SUBJECT: THE CHURCH WITH AN OPENED DOOR

I. WHAT IS MEANT BY THE OPENED DOOR

A. Not simply a door open to all who would enter
1. It is true that all who desire to hear what the Spirit says are welcome.
2. And all who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ are welcome to membership.
3. But this is not the meaning of the open door here.

B. Neither does it refer to Christ as the Door
1. Christ is the Door to God.
2. But that applies to every congregation, not uniquely to this one.

C. It is the open door spoken of by Paul (2 Corinthians 2:12; Colossians 4:3; Acts 14:27)
1. The opportunity to preach the gospel, to do missionary work.
2. The opening of hearts so they become receptive to the gospel.
3. This church has a special chance to do mission work in her own community.
  a. That is her first duty.
  b. Not only to bring the gospel afar, but to shine where God placed her.
  c. What good does a lamp do if it gives no light in the room where it is located.

II. WHO HAS GIVEN HER AN OPENED DOOR

A. The opportunity for mission work is a gift
1. The desire to do the work is a gift — it is not natural to us.
2. The opportunity to do mission work is also a gift.
3. The willingness of others to receive the gospel is a gift, as in the case of Lydia.Hearts are naturally closed to grace until God opens them.

B. Christ makes clear that He has given this open door
1. He is the Holy One, the true Messiah, the Son of David, who has the key.
2. He has the power to open and shut, and no man can hinder Him.
3. He has given this church an open door — a special favor.
  a. We often act as if we are doing Christ a favor by doing mission work.
  b. But there could be no success if Christ Himself did not open the door.
4. Christ is giving this church an even wider door than before.

III. IT IS A SPECIAL REWARD FOR THE CHURCH

A. A reward received in this life
1. A reward of grace, not merit.
2. A special favor granted to her.
3. She has been found worthy — capable of receiving this responsibility.

B. The Lord has taken notice of her works
1. He finds she is ready for a greater task.
2. She is being promoted.

C. This little church has been faithful over a little
1. She was weak, small in size, not rich, not powerful, not especially educated.
2. She kept the Lord’s Word.
  a. She held fast to the truth.
  b. She did not forsake Christ’s law.
3. She did not deny Christ’s Name.
4. She let her light shine in the darkness.
5. She faithfully witnessed for Christ — therefore Christ gives her even greater opportunity.
6. Her faithfulness is rewarded.

CONCLUSION

Do we have an opened door.Are we making use of the opening we have.Have we been found worthy of greater responsibility.Are we faithful.We do not have a little power — we have much.Few congregations of our size in our denomination have been blessed with such resources.Few communities have so much work needing to be done.Has Christ set before us an open door.If so — what will we do with it.