Brother Sparks emphasizes that the phrase "controversy of Zion" from Hebrews 12:22 holds significant meaning for Christians. He explains that Zion represents the pinnacle of all that Jerusalem stood for, and just as Jerusalem was a place of conflict, so too is the spiritual Zion. This controversy, Brother Sparks argues, exists on three levels: between God and the nations, within Christianity itself, and within the ministry of Zion. He posits that God is at work in the world, and the turmoil among nations is related to God's purpose for his people. This purpose, Brother Sparks argues, involves establishing a testimony in the nations, a testimony that provokes jealousy and ultimately results in judgment. He further suggests that this testimony will be a source of conflict, as the world rejects what is of God. Within Christianity, Brother Sparks observes a similar controversy, fueled by human ambition, jealousy, and a lack of spiritual understanding. He argues that many Christians are unable to discern between genuine spiritual life and mere religious activity, leading to confusion and compromise. This confusion, he argues, hinders the true testimony of Zion. Finally, Brother Sparks addresses the controversy surrounding the ministry of Zion. He emphasizes that true ministry is not self-appointed but rather a result of God’s sovereign choice. He argues that those called to this ministry are set apart from birth and undergo a drastic, transformative work by God. This work, Brother Sparks suggests, results in a unique understanding and ability to minister the truth, which in turn makes them targets of spiritual opposition.

Outline of Main Points

The Controversy of Zion: Found in Hebrews 12:22, representing the ultimate conflict surrounding God’s full purpose.
Three Levels of Controversy:
1. God's controversy with the nations.
2. Conflict within Christianity.
3. Controversy surrounding the ministry of Zion.
God's Work in the Nations:
1. God is at work among the nations, even amidst turmoil.
2. He aims to establish a testimony that provokes jealousy and leads to judgment.
3. This testimony will face opposition and rejection from the world.
Controversy Within Christianity:
1. Fueled by human ambition, jealousy, and lack of understanding.
2. Confusion between spiritual life and religious activity hinders true testimony.
The Ministry of Zion:
1. Sovereignly chosen and governed by God.
2. Requires a drastic and deep work in the vessel.
3. Distinct in nature and faces intense spiritual opposition.

Messages from Isaiah 34