Addressing the Moral and Spiritual Crisis of Our Nation

 

Summary

In addressing the current state of our nation, it is crucial to recognize the profound moral and spiritual crisis we face. This crisis is not new, but it has reached a level of severity that demands our attention. The morality gap, as noted by historians and scientists alike, is wider than ever before, and the world is becoming increasingly dehumanized. This is not merely a matter of disobedience but a denial of moral principles and the very concept of law itself.

Historically, the state of the church has often determined the state of the nation. When the church is vibrant and alive, the nation thrives. However, when the church falters, the nation suffers. The church's influence on the state is indirect, yet profound, as it offers a deeper understanding of the human condition and the only true remedy available. The church must not merely describe the situation but seek to understand and address the root causes of our predicament.

The current crisis is the culmination of a long process, beginning with a reaction against Victorianism and the influence of novelists and intellectuals who have trivialized and undermined moral standards. The church, too, bears responsibility for this decline, as ecclesiastical politics and hypocrisy have led many to cynicism and disbelief. The ultimate cause of our troubles is theological, rooted in a rejection of divine revelation and an overreliance on human reason and science.

The church must proclaim the gospel with authority, emphasizing that true morality cannot exist without godliness. We must remind the world of the reality of God, the nature of man as a special creation, and the certainty of judgment. The gospel offers hope and salvation, promising new life and power through the Spirit of God. The church's mission is to produce more Christians, who will, in turn, influence society for the better.

Key Takeaways:

1. The morality gap today is greater than ever before, as noted by historians and scientists. This crisis is not just about disobedience but a denial of moral principles and law itself. The church must address this by understanding the root causes and offering a profound remedy. [00:44]

2. Historically, the state of the church has determined the state of the nation. A vibrant church leads to a thriving nation, while a faltering church results in national decline. The church's influence is indirect but profound, offering a deeper understanding of the human condition. [09:28]

3. The current crisis is the result of a long process, beginning with a reaction against Victorianism and the influence of novelists and intellectuals. The church bears responsibility for this decline, as ecclesiastical politics and hypocrisy have led many to cynicism and disbelief. [12:34]

4. The ultimate cause of our troubles is theological, rooted in a rejection of divine revelation and an overreliance on human reason and science. The church must proclaim the gospel with authority, emphasizing that true morality cannot exist without godliness. [24:08]

5. The gospel offers hope and salvation, promising new life and power through the Spirit of God. The church's mission is to produce more Christians, who will, in turn, influence society for the better. This is the only hope for our nation and the world. [54:49]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:11] - State of the Nation
[00:28] - Morality Gap
[01:07] - Dehumanization of the World
[02:04] - Humanist Perspectives
[03:53] - Historical Context
[04:56] - New Element of Crisis
[05:47] - Medical Analogy
[07:29] - Poison in the System
[09:28] - Church and Nation
[12:34] - Victorian Reaction
[24:08] - Theological Troubles
[38:29] - Loss of Human Greatness
[46:46] - Hope in the Gospel
[54:49] - Mission of the Church

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Psalm 11:3 - "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" ([05:30])
2. Romans 1:18 - "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness." ([55:50])
3. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 - "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God." ([04:50])

Observation Questions:
1. What does the sermon suggest is the relationship between the state of the church and the state of the nation? ([09:28])
2. According to the sermon, what historical factors contributed to the current moral and spiritual crisis? ([12:34])
3. How does the sermon describe the role of the church in addressing the moral crisis of today? ([24:08])
4. What is the ultimate hope offered by the gospel according to the sermon? ([54:49])

Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the sermon interpret the phrase "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" in the context of today's moral crisis? ([05:30])
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the church has failed in its mission, and what are the consequences of this failure? ([23:54])
3. How does the sermon connect the rejection of divine revelation to the current state of society? ([24:08])
4. What does the sermon imply about the relationship between morality and godliness? ([55:50])

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on the current state of the church you attend. In what ways do you see it influencing the community or nation positively or negatively? How can you contribute to its positive influence? ([09:28])
2. The sermon mentions a long process leading to the current crisis. What are some cultural or intellectual influences in your life that might be undermining your moral or spiritual foundations? ([12:34])
3. How can you personally proclaim the gospel with authority in your daily life, emphasizing the connection between morality and godliness? ([24:08])
4. The sermon calls for the church to produce more Christians. What steps can you take to share your faith with others and help them grow spiritually? ([54:49])
5. Consider the role of divine revelation in your life. How can you deepen your understanding and reliance on God's word amidst a culture that often prioritizes human reason and science? ([24:08])
6. The sermon highlights the importance of compassion and hope in the church's message. How can you demonstrate these qualities in your interactions with others, especially those who may be struggling with moral or spiritual issues? ([53:30])
7. Reflect on the idea that true morality cannot exist without godliness. How can you ensure that your moral decisions are rooted in your relationship with God? ([55:50])

Devotional

Day 1: The Widening Morality Gap
The morality gap in our society today is more pronounced than ever before, as noted by historians and scientists. This crisis is not merely about disobedience but represents a fundamental denial of moral principles and the very concept of law itself. The church is called to address this by understanding the root causes and offering a profound remedy. The challenge is not just to describe the situation but to delve deeper into the underlying issues that have led to this moral decline. The church must offer a solution that is both spiritually and morally grounded, reminding society of the importance of adhering to divine principles. [00:44]

Isaiah 5:20-21 (ESV): "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and shrewd in their own sight!"

Reflection: In what ways have you observed the morality gap in your own community, and how can you actively participate in bridging this gap through your actions and words today?


Day 2: The Church's Influence on the Nation
Historically, the state of the church has had a profound impact on the state of the nation. A vibrant and alive church leads to a thriving nation, while a faltering church results in national decline. The church's influence is indirect but significant, offering a deeper understanding of the human condition and the only true remedy available. It is crucial for the church to remain steadfast in its mission, as its vitality directly correlates with the well-being of the nation. By nurturing a strong spiritual foundation, the church can inspire positive change and growth within society. [09:28]

2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV): "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."

Reflection: How can you contribute to the vibrancy of your church community, and in what ways can this impact the broader society around you?


Day 3: The Long Process of Moral Decline
The current crisis is the culmination of a long process, beginning with a reaction against Victorianism and the influence of novelists and intellectuals who have trivialized and undermined moral standards. The church bears responsibility for this decline, as ecclesiastical politics and hypocrisy have led many to cynicism and disbelief. It is essential to recognize the historical context of this moral decline and understand the role the church has played in it. By acknowledging past mistakes, the church can work towards rebuilding trust and credibility, offering a renewed commitment to uphold moral and spiritual values. [12:34]

Jeremiah 6:16 (ESV): "Thus says the Lord: 'Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’"

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you witnessed hypocrisy within a religious context. How can you personally strive to embody authenticity and integrity in your faith journey?


Day 4: Theological Roots of Our Troubles
The ultimate cause of our troubles is theological, rooted in a rejection of divine revelation and an overreliance on human reason and science. The church must proclaim the gospel with authority, emphasizing that true morality cannot exist without godliness. It is vital to recognize that human wisdom alone is insufficient to address the complexities of the human condition. By returning to the foundational truths of the gospel, the church can offer a message of hope and transformation, reminding society of the necessity of divine guidance in achieving true moral and spiritual renewal. [24:08]

1 Corinthians 1:25 (ESV): "For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men."

Reflection: In what areas of your life have you relied too heavily on human wisdom? How can you begin to seek divine guidance and wisdom in those areas today?


Day 5: The Gospel as the Only Hope
The gospel offers hope and salvation, promising new life and power through the Spirit of God. The church's mission is to produce more Christians, who will, in turn, influence society for the better. This is the only hope for our nation and the world. By embracing the transformative power of the gospel, individuals can experience a renewed sense of purpose and direction, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society as a whole. The church is called to be a beacon of hope, guiding others towards the light of Christ and the promise of eternal life. [54:49]

Titus 3:4-7 (ESV): "But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life."

Reflection: How can you actively share the hope of the gospel with someone in your life today, and what steps can you take to live out this hope in your daily interactions?

Quotes



The morality Gap today is greater than ever before he says the world is being dehumanized now there you have a great historian who is not a Christian you but that is his verdict on the present situation let me quote you another professor s John Eckles an Australian possibly the greatest neuroscientist or if you like a brain scientist in the world today. [00:01:19]

The state of the church has generally determined the state of the nation that's why it was right to deal with the state of the church last night and the state of the nation tonight because the state of the church has generally determined the state of the nation I could easily prove that you from history I haven't the time to do so. [00:09:35]

The ultimate cause of our troubles is theological whether you like it or not my friends our present troubles are ultimately theological troubles and they can't be understood nor explained in any other Manner and here aless one has to say it again the church has self has been mainly responsible for this. [00:24:09]

The church is not concerned as many others are simply to describe the situation that can be done fairly easily and it's in a sense popular but it's too superficial we can't afford merely to describe the position our business is to try to understand it so we must start inevitably by trying to discover what is the cause of this present spit which we all be. [00:10:57]

The church must never be L become or even give the appearance of being a protest movement when the church is regarded as a protest movement she's become a Tristy of herself the church is not a Bren of the establishment the church is not here to preserve the status quo the church is never meant to be the bullwark of respectability and decency. [00:51:36]

The church is not here to suggest or to say that on the whole she thinks this or the results of later scholarship oh no no thus s the Lord if the church confronts the world without Authority or in their own might and intellect and understanding she's doomed to failure and she has failed we are here to proclaim the word and the message of God. [00:55:19]

You can never have morality true morality without godliness that's been the fallacy of the last century I remember hearing a distinguished legal luminary interviewed on the television he'd been a late preacher in his early days and he was asked the question you still believe that kind of thing oh well he said of course I still hold on to the ethic. [00:56:50]

The gospel offers hope and salvation, promising new life and power through the Spirit of God. The church's mission is to produce more Christians, who will, in turn, influence society for the better. This is the only hope for our nation and the world. [00:54:49]

The church is not to denounce The Sinner and to walk on the other side of the street holding up holy hands that's fym my friends no the church like her Lord and Master is to show compassion she Us's to look out upon these people as sheep without a Shepherd mared by Rous dogs and beasts she's to have pity upon them. [00:53:55]

The church is not here to preserve the status quo the church is never meant to be the bullwark of respectability and decency the business of the church is not to improve Society all that is the business of the state and the tragedy of the past Century has been that the church has given the impression that she's just on the side of the establishment. [00:51:36]

The church is not here to suggest or to say that on the whole she thinks this or the results of later scholarship oh no no thus s the Lord if the church confronts the world without Authority or in their own might and intellect and understanding she's doomed to failure and she has failed we are here to proclaim the word and the message of God. [00:55:19]

The church's mission is to produce more Christians, who will, in turn, influence society for the better. This is the only hope for our nation and the world. [00:54:49]

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Transcript
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