A Deliverance Definitively Divine - Benedict Allmand-Smith

Date: Sunday 2nd March 2025

Location: Trinity Baptist Church Charlesworth

Title: A Deliverance Definitively Divine

Text: 2 Kings 3

Please listen to the audio of Benedict's sermon below:

https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermons/3325111020120

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A Deliverance Definitely Divine: A Sunday Sermon in Charlesworth

Last Sunday, at Trinity Baptist Church in Charlesworth, this message of deliverance was preached, focusing on how God’s intervention for the Israelites was not only miraculous but definitive. Drawing from biblical passages, the sermon highlighted two critical deliverances: first, from thirst, and second, from the enemy, with powerful connections to Christians' own spiritual journey in Christ. This post aims to share key insights from the sermon for all readers, but particularly for readers in Charlesworth, Glossop and the Derbyshire area.

The concept of deliverance in the Bible often stands as a clear and unmistakable act of God. It is evident that the Israelites’ deliverance in 2 Kings 3:15-27 was not simply a natural occurrence but a miracle—a gift of God. The sermon equates this miraculous act of physical deliverance to the spiritual deliverance Christians experience through the work of God.

Deliverance from Thirst: A Picture of Regeneration

In the narrative, the Israelites were parched, with no apparent source of water. Yet, in verses 16-17 (NKJV), they were told to dig ditches, and water would flow without wind or rain. This unexpected provision speaks to God's definitive action. It mirrors the spiritual deliverance believers experience when they are born again. Just as the water appeared where there was no natural source, the Holy Spirit gives new life to believers, allowing them to see the truth and receive salvation.

In John 3:5-8, Jesus speaks of the need to be born again—an act that is solely the work of the Holy Spirit. Just as the Israelites couldn’t manufacture their own salvation from thirst, Christians cannot earn their salvation. As the Spirit opens a person’s eyes to the truth, that person believes in Christ and receives eternal life. For any who have yet to experience this, they are urged to seek God’s grace in prayer.

Deliverance from the Enemy: Victory over the Devil

The second part of the deliverance narrative in the sermon speaks of the Israelites' victory over the Moabites, which was orchestrated entirely by God. In verses 22-24, the Moabites were deceived into thinking they were witnessing the Israelites’ defeat, but in reality, it was the sign which would lead to their own destruction. This deception mirrors how Satan believed he had won when Jesus was crucified, yet the cross was, in fact, the ultimate victory for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Just as God defeated the Moabites for Israel, He has defeated the devil for Christians in Jesus. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, He has broken the power of sin and the devil over believers' lives. They are no longer in bondage to the enemy. The Bible calls this victory a deliverance from captivity, freeing Christians from the grasp of the devil and bringing them into God's kingdom of light.

Three Points of Application for Charlesworth and Glossop

1. Do Not ‘Let Go and Let God’

The sermon rejected the passive mindset of "let go and let God." God’s sovereignty doesn’t excuse inaction; Christians must work in faith. Just as the Israelites dug ditches in faith that God would provide water, believers are called to act in faith, trusting God but also striving to live according to His will. Their deliverance doesn’t make them idle; it calls them to engage actively in the work God is doing in their lives.

2. Kill All Pride

Pride is a direct rebellion against God's grace. The Bible teaches that salvation is by grace alone, and there is no room for boasting in anyone's deeds. Just as the Israelites could not boast about their own efforts in battle, Christians cannot take pride in their own righteousness. It is only by God’s grace that anyone is saved.

3. Trust in the Lord and Praise His Name

Finally, the sermon encouraged Christians to trust in God through all circumstances. Whether in times of trial or triumph, believers are called to place their trust in God’s sovereignty and care. He will never let them fall, and their deliverance is secured in Christ. In moments of doubt or difficulty, they are reminded that just as God carried the Israelites, He will carry them.

In conclusion, the deliverance God provided for the Israelites is a powerful reminder of His definitive and miraculous work in Christians' lives. Whether in Charlesworth, Glossop, or beyond, believers are to trust in God's sovereignty, reject pride and actively work in faith, recognising their need of his grace.