Exploring Christ's Salvation and Church Vitality

 

Summary

In this engaging session of Ask Ligonier, we explored a wide range of theological and practical questions with Dr. Sinclair Ferguson. The discussion began with a reflection on the purpose and history of Ask Ligonier, emphasizing its role in providing trusted biblical answers to Christians worldwide. Dr. Ferguson, a seasoned theologian and preacher, shared insights on various topics, from the significance of Puritan literature to the complexities of church leadership and the essence of true worship.

One of the key themes was the multifaceted nature of Christ's salvation, which delivers us from sin, death, hell, and God's wrath. This underscores the profound power and depth of Christ's work on the cross. Dr. Ferguson also addressed the challenges facing the modern church, particularly in the West, highlighting the dangers of prayerlessness and the need for genuine spiritual vitality.

The conversation touched on the importance of personal and corporate witness, encouraging believers to engage their communities with the gospel in meaningful ways. Dr. Ferguson emphasized the need for courage in the face of societal changes and the importance of maintaining biblical fidelity in church practices, including the roles of women in ministry and the use of biblical language.

Throughout the session, Dr. Ferguson provided practical advice for young Christians, urging them to find a solid church community, engage in regular Bible reading and prayer, and hold fast to the promises of God. He also highlighted the beauty of Christ as seen in the Gospels, encouraging believers to focus on who Jesus is and how He draws people to Himself.

Key Takeaways:

- The Depth of Christ's Salvation: Christ's work on the cross is comprehensive, saving us from sin, death, hell, and God's wrath. This multifaceted salvation highlights the immense power and grace of Jesus, inviting us to trust fully in His redemptive work. [03:43]

- The Challenge of Prayerlessness: In the modern church, especially in the West, there is a tendency to accomplish much with little prayer. This lack of dependence on God can lead to spiritual shallowness. True spiritual vitality requires a commitment to prayer and reliance on God's power. [06:09]

- Engaging the Community: Effective evangelism involves building bridges with the community, allowing them to experience the life of the church. This corporate witness can be a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the gospel. [24:20]

- The Beauty of Christ: The Gospels reveal the beauty of Christ in His compassion, patience, and willingness to engage with those society overlooks. By focusing on who Jesus is, we can better understand how He draws people to Himself and transforms lives. [01:00:40]

- Assurance of Salvation: Assurance comes from seeing the evidence of salvation in our lives, such as a desire for holiness, love for God's people, and a new relationship with sin. These changes reflect the work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. [01:01:45]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:13] - Introduction to Ask Ligonier
- [01:03] - Guest Introduction: Dr. Sinclair Ferguson
- [01:38] - Lightning Round Begins
- [02:35] - Influential Puritan Books
- [03:24] - Christ's Salvation: From Hell and God's Wrath
- [04:12] - Marriage and Pastoral Calling
- [05:28] - Challenges in the Modern Church
- [06:38] - Differences Between Churches in Scotland and the US
- [07:39] - Understanding Romans 1: God Giving Them Up
- [09:06] - Assurance of Salvation
- [11:03] - Marks of a True Church
- [12:02] - Assessing Spiritual Fruit and Repentance
- [13:06] - Everything Happens for a Reason?
- [15:19] - Expansion of Ask Ligonier: The Podcast
- [16:20] - Elementary Principles of the World in Galatians
- [19:43] - Baptism and Covenant Signs
- [23:16] - Evangelism Strategies for Local Churches
- [28:59] - Concerns for the Church's Future
- [29:48] - Women in Pastoral Roles
- [35:17] - Learning Humility from Herman Bavinck
- [38:13] - Advice for New Christians
- [41:57] - Worshiping in Spirit and Truth
- [45:09] - Obscure Figures in Church History
- [46:50] - Responding to Skepticism About the Bible
- [49:14] - Lightning Round Continues
- [58:30] - Attributes of Christ That Draw Sinners
- [01:01:45] - Knowing If You're Saved
- [01:02:54] - Closing Remarks

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Romans 1:18-32
2. James 4:8
3. John 4:23-24

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Observation Questions:

1. What are some of the multifaceted aspects of Christ's salvation as discussed by Dr. Ferguson? How does this reflect the power of Jesus' work on the cross? [03:43]

2. According to Dr. Ferguson, what is a significant problem facing the modern church, particularly in the West, and how does it relate to prayer? [06:09]

3. How does Dr. Ferguson suggest believers should engage with their communities to effectively share the gospel? [24:20]

4. What attributes of Christ, as revealed in the Gospels, are highlighted by Dr. Ferguson as drawing people to Him? [01:00:40]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. In Romans 1:18-32, Paul describes God giving people up to their desires. How does Dr. Ferguson interpret this passage, and what implications does it have for understanding God's judgment? [08:35]

2. Dr. Ferguson emphasizes the importance of holding onto God's promises. How does James 4:8 support this idea, and what does it mean to draw near to God? [09:38]

3. In John 4:23-24, Jesus speaks about worshiping in spirit and truth. How does Dr. Ferguson explain this concept, and what does it mean for our worship practices today? [42:30]

4. Dr. Ferguson discusses the assurance of salvation. What evidence does he suggest indicates a person is saved, and how does this relate to the work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life? [01:01:45]

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Application Questions:

1. Dr. Ferguson warns about the challenge of prayerlessness in the church. Reflect on your personal prayer life. What steps can you take to deepen your reliance on God through prayer this week? [06:09]

2. Consider the multifaceted nature of Christ's salvation. How does understanding the depth of what Jesus accomplished on the cross impact your trust in Him? What specific area of your life can you surrender more fully to His redemptive work? [03:43]

3. Dr. Ferguson encourages believers to engage their communities with the gospel. Identify one way you can build a bridge with someone in your community this week to share the love of Christ. [24:20]

4. Reflect on the beauty of Christ as described by Dr. Ferguson. How can focusing on Jesus' attributes, such as His compassion and patience, transform your interactions with others? [01:00:40]

5. Assurance of salvation is linked to changes in our desires and relationships. What evidence of salvation do you see in your life, and how can you cultivate a deeper love for God's people and a new relationship with sin? [01:01:45]

6. Dr. Ferguson speaks about the importance of finding a solid church community. How can you contribute to the spiritual vitality of your church, and what role can you play in encouraging others in their faith journey? [38:13]

7. Worshiping in spirit and truth involves the Holy Spirit's power. How can you invite the Holy Spirit to guide your worship and daily life, ensuring that your actions align with God's truth? [42:30]

Devotional

Day 1: The Comprehensive Nature of Christ's Salvation
Christ's salvation is not just a rescue from sin but a deliverance from death, hell, and God's wrath. This multifaceted salvation underscores the immense power and grace of Jesus, inviting believers to trust fully in His redemptive work. The depth of Christ's work on the cross is a profound testament to His love and sacrifice, offering a complete and eternal salvation. As you reflect on this, consider how this comprehensive salvation impacts your daily life and relationship with God. [03:43]

"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (Colossians 1:13-14, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you deepen your trust in the comprehensive salvation offered by Christ today?


Day 2: The Vital Role of Prayer in Spiritual Life
In the modern church, especially in the West, there is a tendency to accomplish much with little prayer. This lack of dependence on God can lead to spiritual shallowness. True spiritual vitality requires a commitment to prayer and reliance on God's power. Prayer is not just a ritual but a lifeline that connects us to the divine, enabling us to draw strength and guidance from God. Reflect on your prayer life and consider how you can cultivate a deeper reliance on God through prayer. [06:09]

"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving." (Colossians 4:2, ESV)

Reflection: What specific steps can you take to prioritize prayer in your daily routine, ensuring it becomes a source of strength and guidance?


Day 3: Building Bridges Through Community Engagement
Effective evangelism involves building bridges with the community, allowing them to experience the life of the church. This corporate witness can be a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the gospel. Engaging with the community in meaningful ways opens doors for sharing the love and message of Christ, demonstrating the impact of faith in action. Consider how you can be an active participant in your community, reflecting the light of Christ to those around you. [24:20]

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16, ESV)

Reflection: Identify one way you can actively engage with your community this week to demonstrate the love and message of Christ.


Day 4: The Transformative Beauty of Christ
The Gospels reveal the beauty of Christ in His compassion, patience, and willingness to engage with those society overlooks. By focusing on who Jesus is, we can better understand how He draws people to Himself and transforms lives. The beauty of Christ is not just in His actions but in His very nature, inviting us to reflect His character in our own lives. As you meditate on the Gospels, consider how the beauty of Christ can inspire and transform your own journey of faith. [01:00:40]

"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

Reflection: How can you reflect the beauty of Christ in your interactions with others today, especially those who may feel overlooked?


Day 5: Assurance of Salvation Through Evident Transformation
Assurance comes from seeing the evidence of salvation in our lives, such as a desire for holiness, love for God's people, and a new relationship with sin. These changes reflect the work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. Assurance is not just a feeling but a recognition of the transformative work of God within us. As you examine your life, look for the fruits of the Spirit that testify to your salvation and relationship with God. [01:01:45]

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV)

Reflection: What evidence of transformation do you see in your life that assures you of your salvation, and how can you nurture these changes further?

Quotes


FERGUSON: He saves us from both and more. He saves us from sin and death and hell, as one of the hymns teaches us. Saves us from Satan. What He accomplished in His death and resurrection is multiplex, really, because our situation and sin has got various layers and dimensions to it. So it's a very helpful thing, I think, for us as Christians to realize just how much power there is in the work of Jesus Christ. [00:03:35]

FERGUSON: Well, it depends where you are in the world, I think, Nathan. I think one of the problems we obviously face in the West is that we have too much and that we…I think very much we have our vision often clouded in the West by what we seem to have managed to accomplish without prayer, although we say that we believe in prayer. I think one of the things I've noticed in my own lifetime, serving the Lord in the United States is whenever I've been given a worship bulletin, when I've been visiting a church, I've always looked to see how this church tells me what it really is, and often, therefore, I've looked to see how does this church tell me that as a church it really prays. [00:05:06]

FERGUSON: I think the important thing always is, and this is been the counsel of I think the great masters of the spiritual life, you know, one of them put it this way, "Make sure for every look you take at yourself and you need, take ten looks at Christ," because at the end of the day we don't find the grounds of our salvation or our assurance in ourselves or in our own experience but in Jesus Christ. [00:09:09]

FERGUSON: Well, the…I would…you know, I could appeal to what, for example, the Reformers said, which would've been the preaching of the Word and the right administration of the sacraments. I think a mark of a true church, you know, an easy way to identify a true church is, I think, is often by first of all what happens in the pulpit. Is the Word of God being faithfully expounded there? And the second thing would be, so what is that doing to the congregation? Is it producing the fruit of the Spirit in the congregation? [00:10:49]

FERGUSON: You know, I think this is a situation in which circumstances alter cases. There are some churches that don't seem to be in any locality, and I think increasingly in the twentieth century more and more churches were built, almost deliberately built that way. And I think with foresight, certainly with hindsight, I think it would have been plain that that was a disastrous methodology, because it dislocated the Christian community from the community around about it. [00:23:16]

FERGUSON: Well, first and foremost, find a church where God's Word will be ministered and where there are people who will nourish you…who welcome you and nourish you. And usually the fact that if there is a solid ministry of the Word, if they welcome you it usually is a good sign that that's somewhere that you will find Christians who will nurture and nourish you. The second thing I think I would say is, do try to build in the regular discipline of reading the Scriptures and praying. [00:38:13]

FERGUSON: In that context, it probably does mean worshiping in the power of the Holy Spirit. Now, it would take a long time to explain fully what that means. But Jesus is looking forward to the fulfillment of His work. He's speaking to the woman at the well in John chapter 4 and He says, "The time is coming when you will no longer worship on this mountain nor will you worship on the mountain of God," and He's saying that the internationalization of the people of God that takes place on the day of Pentecost means that place becomes irrelevant in worshiping God. [00:41:57]

FERGUSON: So, maybe I can try to answer that question by saying, "How would you go about answering the question?" And the way you would go about it would be by reading the Gospels and seeing what was it about Jesus that drew this person to Him. That actually would be a wonderful study, it would be for some people a revolutionary study, because I have this suspicion that many people read the Gospels trying to find themselves there, and this would help reverse that tendency to help them to see all of the focus on the Gospels is not on the people Jesus met, but who Jesus was to the people He met. [00:58:30]

FERGUSON: Well, you know if you're saved because salvation begins to appear in your life. You desire new and different things. The law of God that you regarded as an enemy and an irritation becomes a friend, and you want to keep it. You want to please Christ rather than let Him down. You know all of these, they're very simple things. You begin to love the people who love the Lord Jesus, and these are the kind of things that 1 John speaks about. [01:01:45]

FERGUSON: I think the simple answer is that you have repented enough of your sin when you want Christ more than you want the sin, because the whole purpose of repentance is turning away from our sin to Christ. So that is a more important thing than how deeply miserable do I feel. God is not in the business of simply wanting His children to feel deeply miserable, but if necessary, He wants them to feel miserable enough to turn to Him and to trust in Him. [00:12:02]

FERGUSON: And the answer is, yes, we can learn humility from Herman Bavinck, for a couple of reasons. One is that one of his great sayings is that, you know, if you're going to think about God, you need to realize that you're dealing here with mystery, and mystery recognized produces humility. And the other thing he actually says is that humility is the cardinal virtue of the theologian. Why is that? Because what we are doing as theologians is talking about God, and we are not God. [00:35:17]

FERGUSON: So, I think, always think along corporate and not just individual lines. In, you know, in the church I served in Scotland we used a number of evangelistic style Bible studies that actually were surrounded by meals in which members of the congregation served so that it wasn't just Bible, it was Bible plus the people in whom you could see that the Bible had come to life by their disposition towards you as a non-Christian and by their relationship with one another. [00:28:59]

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Transcript
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