Honoring R.C. Sproul: Living for God's Glory

 

Summary

In our gathering today, we come before God with hearts full of praise and gratitude, acknowledging His eternal sovereignty and grace. We remember our dear brother, R.C. Sproul, who now beholds the glory of God in His presence. We celebrate the profound impact of R.C.'s life and ministry, recognizing the gifts God bestowed upon him and the blessings we have received through his teaching and friendship. Many of us have been transformed by his preaching, and we gather to extol God's greatness for the work He accomplished through R.C.'s life.

As we reflect on the passage from Revelation 5, we are reminded of the worthiness of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, who alone is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals. This vision of heavenly worship calls us to join in the chorus of praise, acknowledging the Lamb who was slain and by whose blood we are redeemed. The scene in Revelation is a powerful reminder of the ultimate victory and reign of Christ, who has made us a kingdom and priests to our God.

We also hear personal testimonies of R.C.'s influence, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the truth of God's Word and his love for people. His life was marked by a deep understanding of theology, a passion for teaching, and a genuine care for others. R.C. was a man who lived coram Deo, in the presence of God, and his legacy challenges us to do the same.

In Isaiah 6, we see the prophet's encounter with the holiness of God, leading to his own deconstruction and subsequent commissioning. This passage serves as a reminder of the transformative power of encountering God's holiness and grace. It is a call to recognize our own sinfulness, receive God's forgiveness, and respond with obedience to His call.

As we honor R.C.'s memory, we are encouraged to live out the truths he taught, to pursue holiness, and to proclaim the gospel with boldness. We are reminded that our lives are to be lived for the glory of God alone, following the example of those who have gone before us in faith.

Key Takeaways:

- God's sovereignty and grace are the foundation of our faith. We are reminded that God has predestined, called, justified, and glorified us, giving us confidence in His eternal plan and presence. [14:13]

- The vision of heavenly worship in Revelation 5 calls us to recognize the worthiness of Christ, the Lamb who was slain, and to join in the eternal chorus of praise, acknowledging His power, wisdom, and glory. [19:29]

- R.C. Sproul's life exemplified a deep commitment to the truth of God's Word and a genuine love for people. His legacy challenges us to live coram Deo, in the presence of God, and to pursue holiness in our own lives. [29:24]

- Isaiah's encounter with God's holiness in Isaiah 6 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of God's presence. It calls us to recognize our sinfulness, receive His forgiveness, and respond with obedience to His call. [51:29]

- Our lives are to be lived for the glory of God alone, following the example of faithful servants like R.C. Sproul. We are encouraged to pursue holiness, proclaim the gospel, and live in obedience to God's call. [06:04]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [13:49] - Praise and Sovereignty of God
- [14:33] - Remembering R.C. Sproul
- [15:52] - Seeking God's Comfort and Strength
- [17:24] - Reading from Revelation 5
- [18:10] - The Worthiness of the Lamb
- [19:29] - Heavenly Worship
- [20:34] - Personal Testimonies of R.C.
- [26:10] - Impact of R.C.'s Ministry
- [29:24] - Living Coram Deo
- [30:19] - R.C.'s Legacy and Influence
- [46:15] - Reading from Isaiah 6
- [51:29] - Encountering God's Holiness
- [55:50] - The Gospel's Transformative Power
- [06:04] - Living for God's Glory Alone

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Revelation 5:1-14
2. Isaiah 6:1-8

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Observation Questions:

1. In Revelation 5, what is the significance of the Lamb being the only one worthy to open the scroll and break its seals? How does this scene depict heavenly worship? [19:29]

2. How does Isaiah's encounter with God's holiness in Isaiah 6 lead to his deconstruction and subsequent commissioning? What elements of this encounter highlight the transformative power of God's presence? [51:29]

3. What personal testimonies were shared about R.C. Sproul's influence, and how did they reflect his commitment to the truth of God's Word and love for people? [20:34]

4. How does the sermon describe the concept of living "coram Deo," and how did R.C. Sproul exemplify this in his life? [29:24]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. What does the vision of heavenly worship in Revelation 5 teach us about the worthiness of Christ and our response to His sacrifice? How does this vision challenge our current worship practices? [19:29]

2. In what ways does Isaiah's experience in Isaiah 6 serve as a model for recognizing our sinfulness and responding to God's call? How can this passage inform our understanding of personal transformation? [51:29]

3. How did R.C. Sproul's life and ministry challenge others to live in the presence of God and pursue holiness? What aspects of his legacy are most impactful for believers today? [29:24]

4. How does the sermon emphasize the importance of living for the glory of God alone, and what practical steps can believers take to align their lives with this purpose? [06:04]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on the vision of heavenly worship in Revelation 5. How can you incorporate a greater sense of awe and reverence in your personal worship and prayer life? [19:29]

2. Isaiah's encounter with God's holiness led to a profound transformation. Can you recall a time when you experienced a similar encounter with God's presence? How did it change you, and how can you seek such encounters more regularly? [51:29]

3. R.C. Sproul lived "coram Deo," in the presence of God. What does living in the presence of God mean to you, and how can you cultivate this awareness in your daily life? [29:24]

4. The sermon highlights the importance of pursuing holiness. Identify one area in your life where you feel called to pursue greater holiness. What specific actions can you take to grow in this area? [06:04]

5. R.C. Sproul's commitment to the truth of God's Word was evident in his teaching and relationships. How can you deepen your commitment to studying and living out God's Word in your own life? [20:34]

6. The sermon encourages believers to proclaim the gospel with boldness. Who in your life needs to hear the gospel, and what steps can you take to share it with them this week? [06:04]

7. Reflect on the legacy of R.C. Sproul and other faithful servants of God. How can their examples inspire you to live a life that glorifies God and impacts others for His kingdom? [29:24]

Devotional

Day 1: Confidence in God's Eternal Plan
God's sovereignty and grace are the bedrock of our faith, providing us with assurance and confidence in His eternal plan. We are reminded that God has predestined, called, justified, and glorified us, which gives us a profound sense of security in His presence. This understanding of God's sovereignty is not just a theological concept but a reality that shapes our daily lives. It calls us to trust in His wisdom and timing, even when circumstances seem uncertain or challenging. As we reflect on this truth, we are encouraged to rest in the knowledge that God is in control and that His purposes will ultimately prevail. [14:13]

"For the LORD of hosts has purposed, and who will annul it? His hand is stretched out, and who will turn it back?" (Isaiah 14:27, ESV)

Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to trust God's sovereignty more fully today? How can you actively surrender this area to Him?


Day 2: Joining the Eternal Chorus of Praise
The vision of heavenly worship in Revelation 5 invites us to recognize the worthiness of Christ, the Lamb who was slain, and to join in the eternal chorus of praise. This scene is a powerful reminder of the ultimate victory and reign of Christ, who has redeemed us by His blood and made us a kingdom and priests to our God. As we meditate on this vision, we are called to lift our voices in worship, acknowledging His power, wisdom, and glory. This act of worship is not confined to a specific time or place but is a continual response to the greatness of our Savior. [19:29]

"And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, 'To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!'" (Revelation 5:13, ESV)

Reflection: How can you incorporate moments of worship into your daily routine, acknowledging Christ's worthiness and reign in your life?


Day 3: Living Coram Deo
R.C. Sproul's life exemplified a deep commitment to the truth of God's Word and a genuine love for people. His legacy challenges us to live coram Deo, in the presence of God, and to pursue holiness in our own lives. This means living with an awareness of God's presence in every aspect of our lives, seeking to honor Him in our thoughts, words, and actions. It is a call to live authentically and transparently before God, recognizing that our lives are a reflection of His grace and truth. As we strive to live coram Deo, we are encouraged to follow the example of faithful servants like R.C. Sproul, who lived for the glory of God alone. [29:24]

"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." (Proverbs 10:9, ESV)

Reflection: What does living coram Deo look like in your daily life? Identify one specific area where you can be more intentional about living in God's presence.


Day 4: Encountering God's Holiness
Isaiah's encounter with God's holiness in Isaiah 6 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of God's presence. This encounter led to Isaiah's own deconstruction and subsequent commissioning, highlighting the process of recognizing our sinfulness, receiving God's forgiveness, and responding with obedience to His call. As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of the importance of encountering God's holiness and allowing it to transform us from the inside out. It is a call to humility and repentance, acknowledging our need for God's grace and allowing His holiness to shape our lives. [51:29]

"And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. And I said: 'Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!'" (Isaiah 6:4-5, ESV)

Reflection: When was the last time you truly encountered God's holiness? How did it impact your life, and how can you seek such encounters more regularly?


Day 5: Living for God's Glory Alone
Our lives are to be lived for the glory of God alone, following the example of faithful servants like R.C. Sproul. We are encouraged to pursue holiness, proclaim the gospel, and live in obedience to God's call. This means prioritizing God's glory above all else, seeking to honor Him in every aspect of our lives. It is a call to live with purpose and intentionality, recognizing that our lives are a reflection of God's grace and truth. As we strive to live for God's glory, we are reminded of the importance of being faithful stewards of the gifts and opportunities He has given us. [06:04]

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31, ESV)

Reflection: What is one specific way you can live for God's glory today? Consider how you can align your actions and decisions with this purpose.

Quotes


We praise you, Father, that those whom you foreknew you have predestined, and those whom you have predestined you have called, and those whom you have called you have justified, and those whom you have justified you have glorified. And we come this day with great confidence knowing that our brother in the faith, R.C. Sproul, is now in your very presence, beholding the greatness and the grandeur and the glory that belongs to you alone. [00:13:16]

Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth. [00:19:05]

R.C. was a man who lived coram Deo, in the presence of God, and his legacy challenges us to do the same. As he walked up the steps of this pulpit Sunday after Sunday, he confessed to some of us the truth that he took encouragement from something that Spurgeon would pray as he ascended his own pulpit those many years ago. [00:49:24]

Isaiah's encounter with God's holiness in Isaiah 6 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of God's presence. It calls us to recognize our sinfulness, receive His forgiveness, and respond with obedience to His call. [00:51:29]

RC knew that without the sovereign grace of God at work in the proclamation of the gospel, all of our efforts are in vain. Revelation 14:13 says, "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them." [00:50:06]

This was RC who never condemned anyone or acted condescending, who loved people. I can't recall all the guys who had come to him with personal or spiritual problems, and he provided for them. I started another Bible study at a new club about seven years ago, and this was RC who enjoyed coming. [00:22:42]

He stands in that great American heritage from Jonathan Edwards to Charles Hodge to BB Warfield to J. Gresham Machen to John Gerstner—great theologians, great because they were biblical, great because they were faithful, great because they were balanced, great because they were profound, great because they were clear. [00:34:06]

This was RC who was a family friend, teacher, and spiritual father, who was so real that he admitted to being a sinner and never gave the impression he was righteous himself, whose actions and attitude always showed that he truly believed the expression "at the same time just and sinner." [00:24:12]

This was RC who gave patient explanations with a consistent logic, even when I asked the same question different ways to the point I almost annoyed myself. He never called me an idiot or just plain stupid until much later after we had become friends. [00:21:48]

This was RC who enjoyed being with the guys, playing cards, hunting, golfing, enjoyed laughing and joking, teasing and being teased, but whose actions never betrayed his convictions. [00:22:27]

RC was steadfast, RC was immovable, RC was abounding in the Lord's work, and by God's grace, RC's labors were done in the Lord, and they were not done in vain. Soli Deo Gloria—to God alone be the glory. [00:50:30]

He was the learning of Jonathan Edwards combined with the communication skills of George Whitefield. If this were not a serious occasion, I would say he had the profound learning of BB Warfield combined with the communication skills of Amy Semple McPherson. [00:34:58]

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Transcript
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