The Footsteps Of The Flock #5
Stephen emphasizes the importance of following the true footsteps of the Lord as revealed through His word, Spirit, and the example of the early church. He begins by referencing Song of Songs, illustrating a longing for the Lord amidst confusion caused by many companions and flocks that are not with Him. The key to finding the Lord is a sincere, singular love and a heart fully committed to Him. Stephen highlights that the footsteps of the flock are found in the Bible, the gospel, and the acts of the apostles, which serve as guides for believers today. He stresses that the Holy Spirit within us teaches and leads us to the Lord, and that a heart genuinely longing for Him will naturally follow His footsteps. The church at Ephesus exemplifies this, with a strong foundation in the living word and a love for the Lord that remains undying. However, Stephen warns that over time, love can diminish, and external doctrines or pride can cause believers to lose their first love. He recounts the history of the church, including the challenges faced by Paul and John, and urges believers to return to their first love, rooted in genuine devotion and humility. He concludes with a prayer for mercy, asking the Lord to restore love and guide us back to His footsteps.
Outline of Main Points
- Importance of following the true footsteps of the Lord through His word, Spirit, and example
- Song of Songs illustrates a longing for the Lord amidst confusion and many companions not with Him
- First love is pure, singular, and undying; essential for spiritual guidance
- The footsteps of the flock are found in the Bible, gospel, and acts of the apostles
- The Holy Spirit within believers teaches and guides toward the Lord
- The church at Ephesus exemplifies a strong foundation in the living word and love for the Lord
- Warning against losing the first love due to pride, external doctrines, or complacency
- Historical recount of challenges faced by early churches, including Paul and John
- Call to return to the first love, humility, and genuine devotion to Christ
- Prayer for mercy and restoration of love, guiding believers back to the Lord’s footsteps
16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
