False Christian teachings, trends….
Thomas Smyth’s sermon identifies symptoms of spiritual backsliding; how to discern these and what to do about this state. He also looks at nominal professing Christians, clarifying this condition and its dangers. In the process, he states the characteristics of true believers. [I found it to be a great sermon to enable one to see his own backsliding, his cool affections for Christ; the sermon also offers encouragement and direction about how to return.]
The beauty of Jesus, the excellencies and wonderfulness of Jesus – Jesus is excellent because He is able to save: He is fully God and Man in the same person –
Since He is both divine and human, He is able to bridge the gap between us and God which sin created – An excellency of Jesus is that He has the power to endear Himself to us that we might turn from lesser things and pursue Him – We have many needs (genuine needs, not wants): His life, His strength and salvation – Go to Him now and pray that He might reveal Himself to you – if / when He does, you will mourn for having neglecting Him – He fully satisfies the souls who truly know Him – Pray for the grace to believe and to see His beauty: by grace through faith you can come to know satisfaction of soul that has previously eluded you