Grace Presbyterian Church: Recent Episodes
God has given Israel the land, yet many of them have not claimed it yet. Although, the Lord doesn't promise us an earthly conquest today, yet he has given us the kingdom that is here and is coming. Have you claimed this promise for yourself?
What do we expect God to do for us, between now and when the Lord Jesus returns for us? We often expect him to do one thing in our lives and yet he does another. Instead of always trying to interpret his providence in the present, we ought to be living faithfully for the future coming of his kingdom.
To live faithfully is to live by faith in Christ, identify your purpose (which is to glorify God and enjoy him forever) and fulfill that purpose, only in his strength!
What does it mean to live by faith? We know it is to receive and rest in the finished work of Christ everyday, but what are the fruits of faith? We know that faith follows but who, how, and why? Caleb is a great example of faith that follows.
Think of all that God has provided you. And he has provided you much more than you can imagine when you place your faith in Jesus. You have an inheritance that is unshakable stored up for you in heaven!
Has God been good to you? This is a good conversation starter when we meet someone who rejects his way of salvation. He has been good to us even when we have willfully rebelled against him. And he changes us from 'spiritual Canaanites' to 'true Israelites,' by the Spirit.
Hebrews 4.8 says, 'For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on.' So, we are confronted with a deeper meaning to the text we will consider today. In the face of so much trial and turmoil in life, who will give his people rest?
What does victory look like in the Christian life? ... It is to glorify God and enjoy him forever!
In our text this morning, we see the Lord's Warrior in battle and the Lord's Warrior in prayer, as two important characteristics of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Is the worship of God a priority for you? Worship was the basis of all Israel's victories. What can we learn from this?
When Israel repented of their sin, there was a path forward for them. The Lord would provide all that they needed for life and godliness. How often do we need to be reminded that we need to wait on the Lord?
As a church, do we take sin seriously? There are dire consequences if we do not. Even in the New Covenant we have examples of Acts 5.1-11; 1 Corinthians 5.1-13, 11.30. Likewise, Israel had to deal with their sin in the camp.
We often read the story of Joshua and focus on what Israel did to conquer and capture the promised land. All the while we miss what the Lord had done for them.
Where do spouses meet in the Bible? I know that may sound like a silly question, but in John 4, wedding bells should be ringing as this particular Bride meets her Bridegroom in a peculiar place.
What is worship? Is it just a whole lot of singing? That is not the pattern of Scripture. Israel was to take part in acts of worship as preparation for battle. When the church gathers for worship, have you ever thought about the fact that we are preparing for life in this world and the world to come? Every week we are called to stop and worship the Lord, who fights for us.
What do these stones mean? A repeated question that we would do well to remember the answer. God did this for you! Today, the Lord has set up memorials for us to observe as he had done in the past, and we would do well to remember what he has done for us.
Israel was about to cross over the Jordan and what did the Lord expect from them? Consecration, trust, as they will see and experience the wonders of God's works among them.
This chapter is one of the most scandalous chapters in all the Bible, leaving the moralist confused and the lawless with (false) license. But, in actuality, what we see here is God's complete picture of redemption for all nations in its seed form. God is reversing the curse!
Joshua was, in a way, a minister of God as we consider this section, and throughout the book, how Joshua delegated leadership, transmitted God's word to God's people, and his people responded with faith.
There is a pattern to the Lord's Commission to his people which involves his promises, his commands, and his presence.
As we begin the book of Joshua, we recognize this as a transitional book in a transitional time for Israel. We will consider the death of the old man, the rising up of the new man (with an old plan), and how Joshua points forward to the greater Joshua to come ...
What can we learn from the fellowship of the ministers, whom Paul worked with for the Gospel? We learn there was a concern for encouragement, a concern for maturity, a concern to fulfill the ministry.
What does it mean to be a witness for Christ? Some may not like that term but it is a biblical concept. Paul speaks to it in Colossians 4.2-6 as he alludes to the way Daniel was a light to the nations when he interpreted Nebuchadnezzar's dream.
In this text, we will also consider the misinterpretations of texts such as Leviticus 25, in dealing with the topic of slavery, as well as address the true context of Paul's instructions and how they apply to us today.
This week we will consider how we put on Christ in the home, wives and husbands, parents and children and consider some of the misconceptions of what this means that are out there in the world.
What is the context of putting on Christ in this portion of Colossians? It is in the church and her worship, which flows out into day to day life. The gathering is essential for the Christian life. It should produce love, peace, unity, and gratefulness.
In an age of click baiting and rage baiting, what are the 'ear ticklers' teaching about what we are to do? Does it align with what Paul told the Colossians to do? Let us consider what it means to put on Christ in the church.
Why are we to put sin away? Why are we to reflect Christ in our lives? We must reflect on the gospel of Jesus Christ, who he is and what he has done for us, in order to answer these questions.
What are we living for? Where do we look when things get hard? The Colossians were facing the problem of false teaching and its effects on the church. Paul directs their minds upward.
There are two kinds of religion, self-made and God-revealed. The most common in the world is self-made religion and it is interesting how they're all very similar in practice.
What does Paul mean when he said that we have died to the 'elemental spirits of the world'? There are many layers of meaning to this phrase.
How do we grow spiritually? The false teachers were binding the Colossians to Old Covenant ceremonies and festivals and a form of mysticism as a way to grow and even to experience visions of heavenly worship. Pau says there is only one way and it is to hold fast to the Head, Jesus Christ.
The Old Covenant had laws, ceremonies and festivals that were meant to expire once the fulfillment arrived. This was what the false teachers missed in their teaching.
Where do we find our ultimate victory? It is only in one place won by One Victor. Paul explains here ...
Where does the Christian life come from? What is the basis or foundation of it? This is answered in Colossians 2.13-14.
Circumcision, Baptism, and Resurrection. What do these share in common? What do they all symbolize or anticipate? Throughout Redemptive History, they are all connected and signify the Person and work of Jesus Christ. So, what does this mean for the one who has faith in Jesus?
What does is it mean to be filled in him? What was Paul fighting against in the Colossian context? Human-generated spiritual experiences through works. But Paul wants us to resist this tendency and to be reminded of Christ.
We normally think of the Christian life as beginning with the gospel of Jesus Christ, NOW, tell me what to do, as if we can walk in Christ without grace. The Christian walk is all by grace through faith.
'All you need is love' is the cry of the culture. But how is the church to think of ministry expectations? Where is the place of conviction and truth?
What do we expect from a church's ministry? What is the end goal? Paul struggled so that the Colossians would be knit together ...
The minister's toil is often not what people expect nor what people want. Many believe that they have 'graduated' from the message of the cross. But Paul said 'Him we proclaim ...' for the Christian life.
What is the minister's stewardship? Is it to proclaim the word of God? Yes. But how? And Who? ... All roads of Scripture lead to Christ and him crucified and the hope of glory to all nations.
What was the context of Paul's suffering? Did he rejoice in unjust suffering? Or did he rejoice in his Savior and how he was working in him and his ministry?
What does persevering or remaining in the faith mean? Perfection? Or is it a constant view of Christ and the cross?
Paul addresses the present condition of the believer as the believer is now, reconciled to God through what Jesus has done for him or her.
The Christian believer needs to be reminded of who we are in Christ. And to do that, sometimes, we need to be reminded of what we were without Christ.
What does it mean when Paul said that, 'in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell ...'? What is he alluding to? A common theme in this letter is that Christ is the New Covenant fulfillment of the Old Covenant temple system. Why is this important for us? It is the way that God provided for our redemption.
What does it mean when it says that Christ is the beginning in verse 18b? Is it chronological or is it speaking of his status over the church?
What does it mean when Paul says that Christ is the Head? He is the Source of her life. He unites us to himself and under himself. And he governs his body.
Jesus is who he is. What does that mean for God's people? It is reminiscent of the One who revealed himself in the burning bush to Moses (Ex. 3).
What does 'firstborn' mean in this text? Does it mean first to be 'born'? Let us consider it ...
What does it mean for Christ to be the Image of the invisible God? God of God, Light of Light, begotten, not made? Find out in the sermon ...
What is the Source of our hope and comfort? What is the foundation of our spiritual life and maturity? It is found in this 'Christ hymn of Colossae.'
Pastor Stark preaches from Mark 9:14–29, where a father brings his afflicted son to Jesus after the disciples fail to help. The focus is on the father's honest, raw plea: "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief." Pastor Stark emphasizes that real faith isn't perfect, it's genuine. This father had doubts, but he still came to Jesus, and that was enough. The sermon encourages us to stop measuring our faith by its strength and instead ask whether it's real. Because even weak, struggling faith, if it's in Christ, is met with compassion and power.
In Pastor David Stark's Acts 6 Bible study, he explains how the early Jerusalem church handled conflict when Greek-speaking believers complained their widows were overlooked during food distribution. The apostles asked the church to pick seven trusted men to manage this work while they focused on prayer and teaching. The church chose seven men with Greek names, showing unity between Hebrew and Greek believers. This peaceful solution helped the church grow significantly. Pastor Stark also discussed Stephen, one of these deacons, whose powerful ministry led to false accusations and his arrest.
Pastor Stark preaches on the story from Mark 7 where Jesus heals a man who couldn't hear or speak. He points out the unique, personal care Jesus took, pulling the man aside and healing him through physical touch rather than just words. Pastor Stark connects this act to a deeper spiritual reality, our own struggle to truly hear God's voice and use our speech wisely. He challenges us to examine our hearts and turn to Christ, who alone can open our spiritual ears and help us speak in ways that honor God and bless others
In his teaching on Ecclesiastes, Jonathan Harris shows that this book isn't about depression but finding purpose in life's temporary nature. Solomon calls us to "cast your bread upon the waters" - taking meaningful action despite uncertain outcomes. Jonathan points out that even when our efforts don't succeed, God remembers work done with the right heart. The message is clear: rather than being paralyzed by life's unpredictability, we should "double down on doing good" while we still have time, finding joy in living purposefully before God.
Alex Holt's exhortation on Psalm 8 reminded us of God's majesty and His care for us. Though He created the vast heavens, He is still mindful of us and showed His love through Christ's redemption. This should stir us to gratitude, awe, and a desire to proclaim His greatness: 'O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Your name in all the earth!
In his sermon on Matthew 15:21–28, Pastor David Stark explores the story of the Canaanite woman who refuses to give up when Jesus initially seems to ignore her plea for her daughter's healing. By humbly accepting her own unworthiness yet still clinging to God's mercy, she reveals what persistent faith looks like. Moved by her determination, Jesus praises her trust and heals her daughter. We're reminded that genuine faith endures even when we feel overlooked, relies completely on God's grace, and ultimately finds that the Lord answers in His own perfect way.
How do we normally react when we hear someone has fallen into sin-- Paul calls on the church to live in step with the Spirit. How does that look like within the church context or in our own personal lives--
The fruit of the Spirit is produced in us by God, not by us. The means that God has provided to cultivate this fruit is the word and Spirit -Jn. 15.3-4-. It is the fruit -not fruits- of the Spirit. One fruit with nine characteristics. The sixth is goodness.
The fruit of the Spirit is produced in us by God, not by us. The means that God has provided to cultivate this fruit is the word and Spirit -Jn. 15.3-4-. It is the fruit -not fruits- of the Spirit. One fruit with nine characteristics. The fifth is kindness.
The fruit of the Spirit is produced in us by God, not by us. The means that God has provided to cultivate this fruit is the word and Spirit -Jn. 15.3-4-. It is the fruit -not fruits- of the Spirit. One fruit with nine characteristics. The third is peace.
The fruit of the Spirit is produced in us by God, not by us. The means that God has provided to cultivate this fruit is the word and Spirit -Jn. 15.3-4-. It is the fruit -not fruits- of the Spirit. One fruit with nine characteristics. The second is joy.
As we consider the first characteristic of the fruit of the Spirit we will consider the definition of love, the origin of love, and the practice of love.
Instead of a to-do list, the fruit of the Spirit is the work of God's grace in the believer producing fruit. God does it. We don't. So, let us consider the Biblical origins of the works of the flesh versus the fruit of the Spirit.
We are all heading in one direction or another. What is the evidence that you are of God and that you are heading to be with him in heaven-- One way to know is to compare the works of the flesh versus the fruit of the Spirit.
We are all heading in one direction or another. What is the evidence that you are of God and that you are heading to be with him in heaven-- One way to know is to compare the works of the flesh versus the fruit of the Spirit.
To summarize this portion of Scripture would be to say, 'Don't forget the Source- Don't forget the Holy Spirit-'
As Christians, what have we been liberated from-- What have we been liberated to do-- It is not what most people would agree with ...
In light of all the false teaching that surrounds and infiltrates the church, we are to have a concern for the truth, confidence in the Lord, and we are to bear the offense of the cross.
Where does your faith lead you-- Does it lead you to presume on God's grace or does it work through love--
What is the difference between believers and unbelievers-- Sometimes they are hard to tell apart. They look the same when it comes to morality. But the question is what or who is behind the motivation-- Listen to the allegory that Paul makes between children of the slave woman and the children of the free woman.
What are some basic principles for a pastor-to-congregation relationship-- I believe it is summed up in our Westminster Larger Catechism Questions 159-160- Question- How is the Word of God to be preached by those that are called thereunto-- Answer- They that are called to labor in the ministry of the word, are to preach sound doctrine, diligently, in season and out of season- plainly, not in the enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power- faithfully, making known the whole counsel of God- wisely, applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers- zealously, with fervent love to God and the souls of his people- sincerely, aiming at his glory, and their conversion, edification, and salvation.-Question- What is required of those that hear the word preached-- Answer- It is required of those that hear the word preached, that they attend upon it with diligence, preparation, and prayer- examine what they hear by the Scriptures- receive the truth with faith, love, meekness, and readiness of mind, as the Word of God- meditate, and confer of it- hide it in their hearts, and bring forth the fruit of it in their lives.
Have you ever wondered what it was like to be in the early church, when Paul was a missionary pastor, writing his letters to the various churches that had problems-- Just imagine trying to be a peacemaker trying to make peace between Jewish and Gentile believers in such a hard transition from the nation of Israel to the church, without a nation on earth. The Judaizers wanted the Gentiles to celebrate the feast days of the Old Testament but Paul would turn to them and say, don't turn back rather celebrate Christ- He has fulfilled it all-
Have you ever thought of the wonder and grace of God that he has chosen to call us sons, children of God, in Jesus Christ-- We are unworthy of such a status. Let us consider what this means for us ...
Since we are one in Christ, which means, although we are not all the same, yet we are all part of the body of Christ, and every member is important to Christ.
How do we obtain the inheritance given to us by God's promises-- Is it by works of the law-- Is it because of our family upbringing or ethnicity-- No. It is only through Christ.
As he continues to contrast the promise -the gospel- and the law, Paul explains the purpose of the law, the extent -or limit- of the law, the nature of the law, and the role of the law to answer the questions, why then the law-- And is the law contrary to the promise--
To know the difference between the promise of Abraham and the law of Moses, Paul distinguishes them in time, in history, as to say that the law was not a NEW way of salvation. The promise of salvation remained and still remains for us today.
The law is not of faith. Without making too many qualifications for what Paul meant by this, we need to ask, what is the context-- He quotes four Old Testament passages and refers to a promise found throughout the Bible. What did Paul mean-- Did he mean that the law is our enemy-- Or was he saying that, for a sinner, law-keeping is not the way of salvation--
What did Abraham do to be counted righteous-- Nothing. Believing is not doing but receiving and resting in God's promises. This is what it means to be a son of Abraham.
Machen's Chapter on the Church is not an appendix to the book. It is a necessary doctrine for the true Christian. We should take heed of his warnings because they are just as applicable today.
How is someone saved-- How do we remain saved and grow in our faith-- Is it based on anything we do--
Machen's Chapter on the Church is not an appendix to the book. It is a necessary doctrine for the true Christian. We should take heed of his warnings because they are just as applicable today.
The gospel confronts and corrects religious hypocrisy in placing everyone under sin and granting eternal life by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
Why was Paul so adamant in his defense of the gospel-- Because the truth and freedom of the gospel was at stake. It was one Lord who worked through Paul and the other apostles to preach the one gospel to all nations. So, this means there was one fellowship among the disciples in building the one final temple, the church.
When we replace the gospel with the teachings of men- when we seek to please people rather than God- and when we add works to our salvation, it leads us away from the true purpose of the gospel. The gospel is a message of faith not works. The gospel transforms man. The gospel is meant to go out to the world, so that the whole world would worship God. This is the purpose of the gospel.
Liberalism wanted to use Christianity as a means to an end- for change or transformation and it became something other than Christianity. Instead Christians are called to be heavenly minded even as we live in the world and go about our daily business.
Paul warned the Galatians that they were deserting God who called them in the grace of Christ if they were accepting a 'different' gospel. How easy it is for any one of us to abandon what God has said for the sake of something new and -for us- more urgent.
Liberalism wanted to use Christianity as a means to an end- for change or transformation and it became something other than Christianity.
The letter to the Galatians opens up with a similar greeting as many of Paul's letters, but this letter is different. The tone of the letter much more serious than his other letters. Let us understand why.
If 'Christian' Liberalism teaches a different doctrine of God and man, the Bible, and Christ, then we must conclude that they will have a different doctrine of salvation. To summarize this chapter- liberalism finds salvation in man, while Christianity finds salvation in an act of God.
How do we read the final eleven verses of the book of Job-- We can easily turn the gospel in the Old Testament into the prosperity gospel as is believed by many today. But the truth is, just as the rest of the Old Testament Scriptures, we must read it through the lens of New Testament fulfillment in Christ and how James interpreted Job's experience -James 5.7-11-.
If 'Christian' Liberalism teaches a different doctrine of God and man, the Bible, and Christ, then we must conclude that they will have a different doctrine of salvation. To summarize this chapter- liberalism finds salvation in man, while Christianity finds salvation in an act of God.
God created all things, even the creatures of darkness and evil that we tend to fear. But who should we fear-- The evil creatures or the God who created them--
The liberal theologian- preacher has a different conception of who Christ is. To him he is the 'fairest flower of humanity,' and an example of faith but he is not the object of faith. They deny that he is a supernatural person and they have a different definition of what the term 'God' means.
Job's arrogance peaked in chapters 29-31. After listening to Elihu's rebuke, Job would get what he wanted -23.3-, but it would be the Lord who would put Job on trial and ask him a few questions of his own.
The liberal theologian- preacher has a different conception of who Christ is. To him he is the 'fairest flower of humanity,' and an example of faith but he is not the object of faith. The questions we should ask is, who was Jesus to Paul-- Who was Jesus to the disciples-- And who was Jesus to himself--
Job and his friends thought they had God all figured out. They both made incorrect conclusions. So, Elihu seeks to correct Job and declare that God is incomprehensible. What ought to be our response to this--
Is God just-- For many people, this would depend on their circumstances. The answer to this question depended on Job's situation. But does God's justice depend on what is happening around us or to us-- Or must we consider his whole perfect plan--
Although the doctrines of God and man are fundamental doctrines to get wrong, liberals have also erred in their doctrine of the Holy Scriptures. Machen argued that the Bible is Special Revelation, historical, inspired, and authoritative.
Job and others who have gone through similar trials, often conclude that God is silent about their situation. But the truth is God does speak. Sometimes he speaks to us through our hardship and all of our trials are to be considered for the good of his children.
Although the doctrines of God and man are fundamental doctrines to get wrong, liberals have also erred in their doctrine of the Holy Scriptures. Machen argued that the Bible is Special Revelation, historical, inspired, and authoritative.
In liberalism, you lose the distinction between God and man. This is why liberalism tends to make the Christian life all about man and what he wants and less about God. You end up with a humanized God and a deified man. Man becomes the object of worship rather than God.
As we are introduced to a new character, Elihu, we first notice that he is full of zeal for God and his truth. So, what we can ask of this text and of ourselves is, where does this zeal come from--
Did Paul teach that doctrine was unimportant-- Like Machen, we must compare the letter to the Philippians with the letter to the Galatians. Both letters were dealing with bad teachers. But Paul came down on one harder than the other. Did Jesus teach that doctrine was unimportant-- He spent his entire ministry revealing who he was and the way of salvation. Every argument from Scripture that we could think of that would suggest that doctrine is unimportant to the Christian life, such as 1 Corinthians 13, would be to rip the Scripture out of context and misapply the word of God.
Job uses covenant language throughout chapter 31 in his final appeal. He declared that he had kept the terms of the covenant but he doesn't understand why he is suffering as if he sinned. Now, this foreshadows One who will indeed keep the terms of the covenant, perfectly, who will die in our stead. Let us hear the good news from Job.
Who is Jesus-- This was and still is the most relevant question when trying to identify Christianity. Is Christianity just a lifestyle-- Or is it a lifestyle founded on doctrine-- Our Guest Preacher Rev. Danny Olinger brings the word of truth and what the Scriptures principally teach about who Jesus is and what that means for our Christian lives.
In Job's final speech -ch. 29-31-, we have come to his lament, where he laments his present condition. He is like a man who is under the judgment of God, even though he is innocent. And what he has been through foreshadows one who was completely innocent. Sometimes the Christian will go through various trials, but through those trials God always has a good plan for his children.
The old saying, 'Doctrine divides but love unites,' is not true. Because once you ask the question, 'what is love--' The answer to that question is doctrine. Many have gone to the love verses of 1 Corinthians 13.1-13 to argue that doctrine is unimportant, which would be to miss the point entirely and how doctrine undergirded the whole passage. Doctrine is the foundation of Christian love and practice as it is laid out in all of the Bible, especially 1 Corinthians.
In this sermon, we will cover the last three of the six principles of Presbyterianism, as found in the famous work of Thomas Witherow, 'The Apostolic Church,' as drawn from Acts 13, 15, 16 and others. IV. Ordination is the acts of the Presbytery or a plurality of elders in the local church. V. The privilege of appeal to the assembly of elders and their right to govern in their corporate character. VI. Christ alone is the head of the church.
Before we get into chapter 2, I wanted to summarize what we have gone through so far in situating Machen historically, politically, and theologically. Where does the tradition of the OPC come from-- Did we come from Revivalism-- Or traditional and confessional Presbyterianism-- In the Bible, is being born again just an experience-- Or is it grounded in doctrine--
What we long for says a lot about who we are. Job longed for friendship with God, for dignity, and for glory. Although, in this world, we do not experience these in fullness, they are all promised to the Christian.
Man has the ability to accomplish great things. But can he find wisdom-- Or does wisdom find him--
In this sermon, we will cover the first three principles of Presbyterianism, as found in the famous work of Thomas Witherow, 'The Apostolic Church,' as drawn from various texts from Holy Scripture -Titus 1- Acts 1, 6, 14, 20- Ja. 5.14- Phil. 1.1- Heb. 13.17- 1 Pet. 5.2-3-. I. Officers Are Chosen By The People. II. The Offices of Bishop and Elder are Identical. III. In Each Church There Ought To Be A Plurality of Elders.
Job's friends questioned Job's identity and status much like Satan questioned Jesus' identity and status in the wilderness. And he continues to do the same today. His voice is heard through many 'channels' yet we have an indestructible weapon to defeat him- the blood of Jesus. We are victorious in Christ and the enemy's voice will soon be silenced.
One thing that is evident throughout the book of Job is that Job's friends weren't as wise as they thought they were. Job will begin to redirect their minds to the wisdom that only comes from God.
Machen continues in his introduction in comparing naturalism to materialism -the belief that this world is all that there is-. And he warns of the dangers of tyrannical systems such as socialism and utilitarianism -believing that one's actions are right only if it benefits the majority-. This same attitude can and has infiltrated Christianity and the church.
These are the last few words from Job's friends. Again, much of what he says is true. Bildad speaks of God's dominion and power over all creation but it is still lacking the words of hope that every child of God needs to hear. The words of hope that are founded in God's dominion and power.
After my long-winded Introduction to the Book, we have come to the actual Introduction to the book, but not before another long-winded introduction.
There are times in the life of the Christian when we will cry out to God, 'How long, O Lord--' We see that this world is opposed to righteousness and we do not see the kingdom of God. This is what Job is going through as he was seeking God, as he was seeking him to vindicate the righteous and to punish the wicked.
Who is your hope of deliverance-- What are the promises of God to those who have put their faith in their only hope of deliverance--
Is it true that the righteous always prosper and the wicked always suffer in this world-- Or is it the other way around-- Or better, is there such thing as God's common grace for both the righteous and the wicked--
Zophar responds to Job with another 'sermon' on hell. Just like Bildad before him, much of what he says is true, although he misapplies it to Job. He ignored Job's context. Yet there is much that we can learn from what he says.
The mindset of being moderate for the sake of influence goes back to controversies in American Presbyterianism specifically in the Old Side vs New Side Debates of the 1700's and the Old School vs New School Debates of the 1800's.
Job goes back and forth between hope and hopelessness, yet he understands that the most important question you could ever ask yourself is, 'am I right with God--' What or who are you relying on for the answer to that question--
Celebrating 100 years since the publication of Christianity - Liberalism by J. Gresham Machen -1881-1937-. Machen was known as a leading voice for the Fundamentalists in the Fundamentalist- Modernist Controversy in the 1920's - 30's, but was he a Fundamentalist himself-- Or was he a Calvinist Presbyterian--
Bildad 'preaches' to Job out of resentment and this leads him to draw some drastic conclusions about Job's state. But at the same time, his words do warn us of the destiny of the wicked if they do not turn to the Lord.
Psalm 73.25 says, -Whom have I in heaven but you-- And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.-
Many people ask themselves, what happens when I die-- Shall I live again-- Job asks a similar question, given the hopelessness of this life. The answer is found in God.
You can hear the voice of Satan in the accusations of Job's friends. Some of what they say is true concerning unbelievers, but as we consider the context and consider the fact that Job is a child of God, their words are unwarranted.
The wisdom of Job's friends is a failure to Job. Where will he turn-- Where do we turn when we realize there is no hope in the wisdom of the world--
The cruel religious system of Job's friends continues to show itself in Zophar's speech. The doctrine of the incomprehensibility of God ought to be a comfort for the believer. But Zophar's speech would lead Job into further despair.
Based solely on our experiences and our trials, we can come to erroneous conclusions regarding God's character. This is when we must be reminded of God's promises in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The religions of the world are often made of simple systems that claim to have answers. A system similar to that of Bildad. But this system lacks grace, redemptive suffering and so it would lack the redemptive suffering of Christ on the cross for our sins.
In Job's first response, he is on a defensive strike against the faulty assumptions of his friends. As a sinner saved by grace, he gets a lot right but he also gets a lot wrong, yet he will be proven to be a true worshiper of God as he is refined and purified by his trials. Listen to where his help, comfort, and hope come from as we all grapple with our own suffering.
In Eliphaz's first speech to counter Job's lament, he preaches a four-point 'sermon' that will help only in leading Job into deeper despair. And the deception is that most of what he says about God is true but he leaves out some key points. This will be the pattern of all the speeches presented by Job's friends.
We often ask why do the righteous suffer in this world-- Is there any hope-- We must often be reminded of the hope we have in the gospel.
Suffering leads to loneliness. And the greatest comfort we can receive is from God our Father. Do you know this comfort--
God is to be worshiped. Not only when things are good but also when everything is bad. God is worthy of worship even if he saved no one.
In this sermon, we will consider who is the enemy of our souls, his purpose and how powerful he is.
The book of Job can be easily misread as a manual for suffering. We can falsely turn to Job as the hero of the story. Though Job does point forward to our ultimate hero who comes in the flesh, the story of Job is first and foremost about God's faithfulness to his people and how he has a chosen seed who will defeat the enemy. Let us consider who this righteous man is.
He is risen- The gospel of the resurrection of Christ is proclaimed directly from the throne of God. This points to the truth that Christ's work of atonement for our sins was received by God and we are forgiven. And one day we will be raised just as he was raised. Let us live in light of the truth of the resurrection.
The point of the gospel of Mark was to answer the question, 'Who is Jesus--' Throughout the letter, there are many responses, and we have arrived at one of the final responses. A secret disciple comes out of the shadows and seeks to honor his Lord.
'And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom.' -other texts to consider- Genesis 3.22-24 - Exodus 26.31-33-
What does it mean that Jesus was forsaken on the cross-- And should the Christian expect to be forsaken in the same way--
A guilty sinner is released, while the Innocent is condemned. Sound familiar-- It should. Praise God for his amazing grace in Christ Jesus our Lord.
As Jesus faces a false trial, laced with false accusations, there is another trial going on at the same time. And the outcomes are total opposites. This ought to help us to realize two things. The frailty of human sinners and the reliability of Christ. He is a faithful Savior, even when his servants are not so faithful.
Isaiah 53.3-5 speaks of our Lord Jesus Christ, 'He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief- and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows- yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions- he was crushed for our iniquities- upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.'
In the Lord's Supper, Christ makes a pledge to his disciples that he will go before them to die and rise for them and he will fulfill the conditions of the covenant. This is why it is considered a sign and seal of the covenant of grace -unmerited favor-.
-And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, -Take- this is my body.- And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. And he said to them, -This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.-
-For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed- It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.-
-Then Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve, went to the chief priests in order to betray him to them ... And as they were reclining at table and eating, Jesus said, -Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.-
Jesus said ... 'For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me.' The church has always struggled with 'priorities.' What is the priority of the church today--
What is the point of Jesus giving us signs of his coming-- In his own words, 'Stay awake.'
Jesus will return. When-- How will we know-- These are common questions. Listen to Jesus' response.
How we measure devotion may not be the way God measures devotion. Here Jesus distinguishes between false devotion and true devotion.
What will we do with this-- ... -How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David-- David himself, in the Holy Spirit, declared, -'The Lord said to my Lord,-Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet.-' David himself calls him Lord. So how is he his son---
For those surrounded by legalistic commands and blatant immorality, a question may come to mind, what is the most important commandment-- And who is Jesus in relation to that commandment--
There are key doctrines of the Christian faith that must be believed in order to claim to be true believers. One of these doctrines is the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead at the end of time when Christ returns. Jesus makes that clear to those who were questioning him.
A common question is, how are Christians to deal with corruption in high places of government-- There are many ways you can answer that question. As Christians, we are to remember that we have a dual citizenship -Acts 22-22-29- Phil. 3.20- and a responsibility to both. Now, Jesus' enemies tried to trap him with this sort of question and he responds to his interlocutors in this same manner to expose their hypocrisy and how they had forgotten their most important duty. God is King of all kings and he is the priority.
Everyone builds their lives on something -or someone-. The religious leaders of Jesus' day have rejected Jesus not knowing that in their rejection he has become the cornerstone. He becomes the stone of offense and the rock of stumbling for them and the cornerstone of God's building project, the Church. Who is your most important stone in the building project of your life-- You'll know by answering, how do you respond to God's word-- Acceptance or rejection.
The religious leaders of Jesus' day were questioning his authority after he cleansed the temple. His response would answer two questions, where did he receive his authority-- And where did he come from-- And this has significance for all of our lives. Have we accepted or rejected Jesus' authority over us--
When Jesus entered the temple, he noticed that the people of God were lacking in fruit. This week we want to answer what are the fruits of faith-- Jesus gives us two. Prayer and forgiveness and it begins with a true faith in God. And this is not a generic god or a god that we have made up. But it is the true God in Jesus Christ.
When Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem, he goes directly to the temple. And the question that he will be asking is, 'Will I find faith--' Well, how can you find faith when you can't see it-- By the fruit that one bears. Do you see fruit on your fig tree--
Whenever we read about the Triumphal Entry of Jesus, we tend to forget about Jesus' destination and the purpose of his entry into Jerusalem. Let us revisit this passage to see what is his ultimate will.
'Son of David, have mercy on me-' ought to be the cry of every Christian, because just like this man in Mark 10-46-52, we too, are beggars.
-This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.- 1 John 1.5
In the Transfiguration, there is a revelation of who God is, who the Son is and where he is taking his people. He reveals that he will fulfill what Moses could not and make a transfigured people for himself.
There is a cost to being the Son of Man and to being a disciple of the Son of Man. Have we counted that cost-
Disciples do not often see -or understand- clearly. Jesus is the patient Teacher who leads his disciples into the truth of who he is and there is a breakthrough in Peter's confession. Who is Jesus- Who is Jesus to you-
Every physical saving act -healing- of Jesus was a teaching point for everyone to learn that we all need a Savior both physically and spiritually. What can we learn from this miracle healing- We learn that we have a good Savior and Creator who does all things well.
Jesus moves out of Jewish territory and makes his way into Gentile 'enemy' territory. And there he finds faith in one of the most unlikely places.
What is the source of the human problem- In our day and age, many Christians have become practical materialists believing that the problem is outside of us rather than within. Jesus' answer is counter-cultural and reveals our dire need of a change that comes from God. And the actions we take must be what God has prescribed and provided for us.
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
Having traditions is not a problem, until it rises to the level it should not. When it is exalted to the same level of importance as the word of God and his law or when we make our traditions a matter of salvation, which causes a barrier in our fellowship with one another, we would be resembling the Pharisees. Jesus says of these, -This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me ...- Where is your heart- Near or far from God-
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God- How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways- - Romans 11.33
Jesus demonstrates himself to be the 100- perfect man, set apart from everyone else and he demonstrates himself to be 100- God, set apart from everything else and this establishes our faith. In him, we have every reason to take heart and not fear.
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
Our God is described in Scripture as a Shepherd -Ps. 23- and as a Shepherd he guides his sheep with teaching and he provides for their daily needs even when living in our modern day wilderness. And he will guide his sheep in a New Exodus through Jesus Christ.
We come to the story of the beheading of John the Baptist. What was the reason for his beheading and how do we see this same hatred and bitterness in the world against the church- This was a precursor of the type of persecution the church would later face and is still facing today. And we don't want to ignore the same signs of sin running its course in our lives as well.
In her mission, how does the church tend to respond to rejection- As Christians, we tend to let it fester and we eventually become embittered. How does Jesus teach us to approach our mission of spreading the gospel- And what does he call each individual to do-
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
The questions of ultimate authority and man's purpose for existence are declared by God in these opening verses of the Bible. The Creator has rights over His creation. We testify to this in our copyright and patent laws. Therefore God has rights over His creation, hence He is the final authority for everything. How does man fit in- Genesis tells us very clearly- man was made by God for God. There could be no higher purpose. God's goodness and His love for men is clearly demonstrated in the step by step care He takes preparing a world for Adam. This is analogour to Jesus teaching His disciples in John 14, that He was going away to prepare a place for them and would come back to take them there.
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
What does it look like to live for the glory of God- Micah 6.8 says, -He has told you, O man, what is good- and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God-- That is, in a way, what Paul is communicating to this Corinthian church.
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
How do we communicate to God- How does God communicate to us- There is only one way. Through a Mediator. Who is that Mediator- The man Christ Jesus.
In summary, let me say it another way. Consider Job. He wanted to teach God a thing or three, Job 33-8-12. But then God gave him a lesson on creation and providence, Job 38-1-18. Then Job shut his mouth and was ready to listen to God's words, Job 42-1-6. This is the precise purpose of the Holy Spirit in Genesis One. To stop your mouth and mine. To get us by the heart and by the ear so that we will shut up and listen to God's Word, Isaiah 66-2.-For My hand made all these things, Thus all these things came into being,- declares the LORD. -But to this one I will look, To him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word.-
How do we attain salvation- How do we have life eternal and be restored to God- How will we ever stand in the presence of God and be considered righteous- Paul answers all of these questions in this famous passage which drove the Reformation into full gear. It is a reminder and something the Church needs to be reminded of today.
This audio has been uploaded for those who are seeking to become full-communicant members of Grace OPC in Lisbon, NY and who were not able to attend.
Humans are prideful people. We want to take credit for all of our accomplishments and never recognize them as gifts from God. This is how we can view our own salvation as well. We must be reminded every day that salvation is by grace and not works.
Apologetics is the practice of defending the faith from false teaching. This is what Peter is practicing here as he defends the identity of the Son of God, the Holy Scriptures as the word of God and seeks to establish the Christian's life in that Holy word. The Holy Bible is the word of God and a lamp to guide us in this dark world. Are you paying attention to it-
Familiarity breeds contempt. Some may be so familiar with Jesus that they pride themselves in thinking they know all there is to know about him. This group of people from his hometown didn't know him as they thought.
Unlike the false gods of false religions of the world, our God reveals himself as a God of compassion and sympathy. Jesus is our Almighty God and Savior.
With this third sign recorded by John, Jesus -signs- that He is God. The Jewish teachers understood His claim and rejected Him. Jesus also confronted the teachers with their lack of understanding the Law of God. When accused of working on the Sabbath in violation of the Fourth Commandment He replied His Father is working.
Demon-possession can become a taboo. Something that is spoken of in front of a camp-fire for the thrills of the story. But when we encounter demon-possession in the New Testament, the stories are never disconnected from the revelation of our Lord. For he is Lord over all, including the demons, and it reveals that his mercy reigns over the oppressed.
Jesus leads his disciples toward 'troubled waters' and when they cried to him for help, he delivered them -see Psalm 107-. This is our great God.
We hear much about the Kingdom of God in Mark. But we seldom ask what is the Kingdom and what is the Kingdom like- It comes from her King. And how does it grow- Jesus tells us.
Jesus begins to teach in parables. What are parables- What are they meant to explain- And how does Jesus use them- This is a hard teaching to accept in our all-inclusive society. But his followers are called to listen and accept it.
Jesus is being sought out by his family in order to seize him because they think that he has lost his mind. But according to Jesus they were thinking and acting very worldly and he clarifies for them what it means to be truly part of God's family. So we are to ask, what are the traits or characteristics of those who belong to God and who follow Jesus-
In 1897 R. L. Dabney, a Presbyterian theologian, wrote, -... You may deem it a strange prophecy, but I predict that the time will come in this once free America when the battle for religious liberty will have to be fought over again, and will probably be lost, because the people are already ignorant of its true basis and conditions.- Jesus said that the Truth will set you free. Today truth has fallen and the Lie prevails, so we see slavery and death in our nation.
Doctrine and knowledge are important. But it cannot be alone. There must be faith. Doctrine identifies who we have placed our faith in. Doctrine identifies the source of our faith. Faith and knowledge cannot be separated as the Holy Spirit works in us. In our text, there is a grave misunderstanding and it is rooted in unbelief. They were not believing in the one true God and it led to the -unforgivable sin.-
The heart of the gospel is the work of Jesus Christ on the cross. The ground of your hope is Christ crucified. Your assurance and your exultation in God is absolutely dependent upon the work of Christ on the cross. It is essential that the cross work of Jesus not be vacated of its Biblical meaning-
At this point in the gospel of St. Mark, Jesus is still at war with disease and the demonic forces that seek to defeat him and his mission. Though they try hard to distract him, our Lord will accomplish what he came to accomplish and establish his Kingdom. The Apostles are chosen which would lay the foundation of the rest of the house -the Church-. Praise the Lord for his faithfulness-
There is much confusion over the Fourth Commandment. It has the longest explanation yet we often ask what is the Sabbath day all about- We are called to keep it holy and spend our day worshipping God. But what is permissible and what is considered to be -work- has often caused disagreement. Jesus helps us to understand what the Sabbath is for and what it is not for.
What is worse than being a sinner- A sinner who doesn't believe that he is a sinner. What is worse than someone who doesn't believe he is a sinner yet believes that he will be saved by the law of God- Someone who adds to the law of God.
As we survey our lives, there is much that we think we need. But often we miss what we truly need. Jesus gives a paralytic what his soul truly needs first and foremost before he gives him what his body needs.
This story is not just about a leper. It is not just about a healing. It is about the character of the One who reveals himself and what he calls us to do.
Jesus leads his disciples and reveals to them his compassion, his power - authority, and his ultimate purpose as to why he has come to earth. And this is how he leads his church today.
In our day, people do not want to submit to authority. Our sinful nature wants to be the authority. But there is only One who possesses the authority that we think we have. And he has authority in his teaching, over darkness, - in battle.
The King has come. So, this means the Kingdom follows him. What is the call of the Kingdom- What is the goal of the Kingdom- And what is the cost of the Kingdom- We consider all three in this passage.
-Is not it nonsense to command a dead man to live-- If the sinner is unable to respond to the gospel then it is foolish to preach the gospel- Further, how can the sinner be condemned for his unbelief when he is unable to believe- Is not God then responsible for all the unbelief in the world- Such are the rationalist complaints. But consider what Jesus teaches Nicodemus about the necessity of the Holy Spirit's work on the unbeliever.
We often read the temptations in Matthew and Luke as guides to defeat temptation. Though methods may be useful in avoiding temptation, there is more to it than that. There is something other-worldly happening here. There is something more about the temptation of Jesus in that it is the temptation of Jesus- Why was he tempted- And what is the difference between his temptation and ours- Because that helps us to answer, how do I have victory over temptation-
Israel witnessed the coming of the Lord, without knowing it. The only One who is baptized, anointed and declared the beloved Son of the Father. God has anointed many throughout the Scriptures but not in the same exact way. Here, God our Savior is revealed.
In the four days which John the Apostle records in this first chapter you see the growth of the distinctly Christian Church. Here you see how God grows His Church, the method and the messengers of which He approves. Our text is full of hope and encouragement.
Though all of Scripture is about Jesus, not all of prophecy is about Jesus. We see the entrance of a great prophet sent from God for preparing the way for God. And his message is not about himself but about One who is coming to grant newness of life. He is the Mightier One. So, it is really about Jesus ...
God is the Savior of his people. God is the One who calls his people to himself as our Good Shepherd -John 10-. But he uses imperfect vessels of clay to bring the one who is straying back to the truth. This has eternal significance.
The Christian has one of the greatest privileges. And that is we can talk to God in prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord. We have access to the greatest source of power that anyone can have that far surpasses any earthly power and we are called to pray for ourselves and for others.
We are living in perilous times. The church is surrounded by danger and sometimes it may be coming from within the church walls. We may have torn relationships due to our sin. We are becoming impatient with one another. We may have tried everything to mend those relationships but to no avail. What do we do now- And what do we do when the entire world has turned against us- Wait ...
Like many of our great creeds and confessions, what do they say about what we believe- And how does it impact our thinking about life and how precious life is- But life is not life without fellowship with God. And the good news is that Jesus has been risen from the dead and he grants us that life once we believe.
Justice is a word that gets thrown around too quickly and rashly without investigation. True justice comes from God and his law. If we sin against a brother there are consequences. James describes the consequences of those who refuse to repent and this is a comfort for Christians who may have been wronged in this life.
True arrogance is found in those who try to live independently of God. By trying to live independently of God, we can only bear rotten fruits. What does it look like to live a life confident in God and his will-
Who is the true Lawgiver and Judge- Many would want to self-elevate to this position but only one is worthy of such a role. We are called to judge good from evil in this life, so what type of judging is he referring to-
We live in a society that is desensitizing sin in our own lives. But how does God feel about sin- And what should our response be- Humility or pride- Do we become defensive when we are confronted with our own sin and how much God actually hates sin- This is what makes God's grace so amazing.
There is unending grace for the believer to live the Christian life. In Jesus Christ, grace abounds- PLEASE NOTE- This sermon is missing the first few seconds. It begins, -The basic story that is found in the Scriptures is that God created all things and he created man. And he created man upright ...-
We have read so far that our tongues are set on fire by hell and that worldly wisdom is demonic. So, where does the quarreling and fighting begin- Can we blame it all on the devil- Or does it come from each individual's desires and grows up into conflict- What is the solution to the conflict that exists within us all-
In a time of unrest and widespread rebellion, where is our peace- Is it in the world- Where is the wisdom that can help to guide us toward peace- Is it from the world- We can see that is not helping. So, the answer to these questions is the answer the church ought to seek when the unrest 'out there' peeks its head in 'here.'
What are the consequences of the truths of the gospel- If Jesus is the propitiatory sacrifice, the sacrifice which satisfies God's wrath against the sinner, then what conclusions ought we to draw- This is precisely what Paul answers in the end of Romans Chapter Three. This is the same truth which John declares when he identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God, in John 1-29.
Small fires burn down large forests. In this passage, that small fire is our own tongue. What destruction are tongues leave behind- This marks our sinful nature. So how can this be turned around-
One of the great accomplishments of the Reformation was the recovery of the doctrine of justification by faith alone. Faith is the means or vehicle of our justification and our justification is based on what Christ has done on our behalf. But what does James mean when he says that we are also justified by works- Does he mean that we are saved by what we do- Or is he speaking of our temporal experience as our faith becomes visible-
Showing favoritism in the Church can be damaging to the fellowship of believers. Not only that but it would be to deny the gospel itself.
What is religion- We often think of religion as something that is overbearing with a list of do's and don'ts. But truly, religion is putting our faith into practice. It is the wonderful truths of our faith as it works out in our lives. So, what does true religion look like when it is practiced- What should our solid foundation of doctrine lead us to-
What is the purpose of our gathering during this season- What is the underlying reason for our celebration- Is it about our own expectations- Or the worship of our Lord-
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is vital and foundational for doing what God calls us to do. In this passage James says that the one who continues to look into the perfect law and perseveres will be blessed. But doesn't the law kill- Knowing who you are is vital to understand what James is speaking about.
Our surrounding culture prides itself on belligerent and quick speech. To us it is a characteristic of being genuine. But James goes against the tide of what is common around us and common to our nature and he gets at the root problem. Not only that but he gives us a solution. Someone is speaking who we ought to listen to.
John the Baptist was not the Light but the -newspaper boy- who brought the headlines about the Light. Jesus is the Light, both in general revelation and now in His special revelation as he teaches and preaches in person. We learn in these verses how much God esteems the Church's ministry of the Word through its preachers. God did not appoint angels to preach but men, former sinners who were regenerated by the Holy Spirit. We ought to listen to sound Biblical preachers, though always checking them by the Written Word of God, the Bible.
As Christians, we ought to be amazed at the glorious work of creation. What is more amazing is the God who created it. And he created it for, not only his own glory, but for us, human beings. If he is good toward his creation in this way, think of how good he is toward his own children. In fact, his will is only good for his children, even if it doesn't seem all that good to us in the moment. And in the end it is to make us more like his Son, the firstfruits of his creatures.
We've all heard the common saying, -the devil made me do it.- No doubt there is some truth to that, especially when we consider Satan as our tempter. But James would like to remind us that our temptation to sin comes from within as well as it comes from without. It comes from our desires and our desires give birth to total destruction. How can we be delivered from this devastating end-
The letter written by James is considered to be wisdom literature. He continues to present heavenly wisdom in seeking the things above, rather than the things below. He just described how the rich man will perish but then he goes on to describe what will not perish. The eternal life or the crown of life that God gives us.
In this final sermon on Paul's prayer for the church in Ephesians we see how he prayed for the church to know God's love better, and how we should pray this for one another.
This is the first of three sermons on Paul's prayers for the church in Ephesus. In this sermon on Eph. 1-15-20, we look at how Paul asked God to help the Church better understand the hope, riches, and power they have in Christ, and how we can pray the same for one another.
In this final sermon on famous gospel texts, we look at Christ's parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15-11-32, and the joy in heaven when a sinner repents and turns back to God.
David, learning through God's Law and by the sacrifices, that no mere man was worthy to live with the Holy God, meditates upon the character of One who was worthy. He reveals to you the character of Jesus Christ, but also the character of all those who have faith in Jesus Christ. His perfect righteousness is credited to each one who believes in this One who is natively worthy to dwell with the Holy God, He who is God.
In this sermon on Romans 3-19-31 we look at how a sinner can obtain a right standing with God through faith in Christ.
In this sermon on Titus 2-11-15, we look at the goal that God's grace is accomplishing in our lives through the work of Christ. -- Note- this audio is poor quality due to being recorded at an outdoor service.
Paul warn Timothy about false teachers who will imply insufficiencies in the Bible. This attack upon God's Word is not new, Satan used it in the garden. Are there 66 books in the Bible- Without the Old Testament God's people have little to say to the civil culture. As Christ rules the heavens and the earth His law applies to all cultures, kingdoms and men upon this earth. All 66 books reveal God's will for individuals, families, churches, and civil governments. We must return to God's Word to save our society from self-destruction.
When judgment comes from God He protects His righteous ones. Isaiah told this to the saints in the midst of his prophesy of destruction and judgment. So it is today.
In this sermon on 1 John 4-8-10 we see the nature of God's love and how he ultimately shows that love to us through sending his Son to be our Savior.
This is the second sermon in a series of famous gospel texts we will be studying through the summer. Today, we will look at John 3-1-8, and how Jesus said we must be -born again-. Also included are the earlier Scripture readings from Ezekiel 36-22-36 and Ephesians 2-1-10.
Twenty-seven people named by the Apostle Paul. What a witness to the world regarding the liberty and power of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ- Christians with such social and financial inequalities love one another, worship together, and serve one another most willingly from their heart. Little of the divisiveness and hate caused by envy and covetousness. Socialism is the antithesis of the gospel with a false diagnosis, false treatment, and a false prognosis.
This is the first sermon in a series of famous gospel texts we will be studying through the summer. Today, we will look at John 3-14-21, and how Christ is the only Savior God has provided for lost sinners. Also included are the earlier Scripture readings from Numbers 21-4-9 and 1 John 5-1-13.
This is sermon -6 in the series on -Repentance unto Life-. In this sermon on Luke 17-3-4, we look at the role forgiveness plays in the process of repentance. Earlier Scripture readings are also included- Micah 4-1-7, Matthew 18-21-35.
How Sovereign is God's grace to the sinner- How safe is the man, woman, or child set apart by God for God- David exhorts Absalom to repent, warning him that he, David, is God's. So also you, if you have pledged allegiance to the King of Kings.
This is sermon -5 in the series on -Repentance unto Life-. In this sermon on Matthew 18-15-18 we look at how God called the Church to be a community which nurtures and promotes individual repentance, and also how the church may be called to corporate repentance when needed. Earlier Scripture readings are also included- Ezekiel 14-1-11, Revelation 2-1-17.
God imputes guilt to the soul that sins, not the sinners children nor grandchildren. Not knowing this truth allows civil government to manipulate -guilty- subjects so as to enslave them. Current events are such a social engineering project to destroy liberty.
This is the first Sunday back to public worship after the Covid 19 lock-down. In this sermon on 1 Peter 2-12-12 we look at how we should understand our Christian identity and life in this present world as God's people.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 107-1-3, Exodus 19-1-8, and Colossians 1-1-14. The sermon is based upon 1 Peter 2-9-10, looking at our identity and mission as God's redeemed people in the world.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 86-8-12, Psalm 15, and 1 John 2-1-17. The sermon is based upon Ephesians 4-25, looking at how we are called to put away falsehood and speak truthfully in all our interactions as the people of God.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- 1 Peter 2-9-12, Psalm 26-1-12, and Colossians 3-1-17. The sermon is based upon Ephesians 4-17-24, looking at how we are called to pursue purity in the way we think and live as those who are united to Christ and his Church.
The Psalms have been universally loved by the church ever since they were written. There is good reason for this. They are real life experience. They take you by the hand and lead you into knowing God. Every possible Christian experience is expressed in the Psalms. They have a peculiar ability to move from the mind into the affections and out to the will. Psalm 34 shows you David in trouble, and David exalting in the LORD, and David exhorting you to fear God and gain life. David is still a fugitive running from King Saul when he writes this psalm.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Hebrews 10-23-25, Psalm 133, and Romans 12. The sermon is based upon Ephesians 4-13-16, looking at how the Church grows when each part of the body does it's part.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 47-1-2, Psalm 68, and Philippians 2-1-11. The sermon is based upon Ephesians 4-7-12, looking at how the risen and reigning Christ gives gifts to his Church to help them grow in unity and maturity.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 108-3-5,Ezekiel 37-15-28, and John 17. The sermon is based upon Ephesians 4-1-6, looking at what it means to walk in unity and build unity as Christ's Church, especially as a local congregation.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 124-8, Numbers 14-1-37, and Psalm 95. The sermon is based upon Hebrews 3-7-19, looking at the warning God gave to the Church not to harden their hearts under their trials and turn away from God, like Israel did in the wilderness.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 91-1-4, Psalm 102, and Hebrews 11-1-16. The sermon is based upon Romans 8-18-25, looking at the hope for Christians and the creation as we groan through suffering in this life.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 116-5-9, Isaiah 53, and Romans 6-1-14. The sermon is based upon Matthew 28-1-15, looking at the resurrection of Jesus and its implications for us today.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 118-26-29, Psalm 95, and Philippians 2-1-11. The sermon is based upon Matthew 21-1-11, looking at the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and its implications for us.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Psalm 27-15, Malachi 3-1-7, and 2 Corinthians 4-1-18. The sermon is based upon James 1-1-8, looking at how the Lord can give us joy in our various trials as we remember who he is and what he is doing for us through them.
This is an online devotional service offered during the corona virus quarantine, since we cannot gather for public worship. There are three Scripture readings- Hosea 6-1-3, Psalm 46, and Luke 12-22-34. The sermon is based upon Proverbs 18-10-11, looking at how the Lord is our strong tower in times of trouble, rather than our wealth or power.
In this fourth sermon on repentance unto life, we look at how Jesus called us to a life of ongoing repentance for the rest of our lives, as we prepare for glory.
In this third sermon on repentance unto life, we see the fruits of repentance after you have experienced godly sorrow and confession. You identify and turn from specific sins in your life and make restitution for wrongs you have done as far as possible.
In this second sermon on repentance, we look at how true repentance begins in the heart with a godly grief over our sin that leads to confession of our sins as we turn back to God.
What did Jesus mean when he called us to -Repent-- In this sermon, we will study the necessity and definition of repentance. This is an introduction to the topic, and the first sermon in a short series.
In this sermon on Genesis 50, we see how the promises of God shaped Joseph's understanding of providence, forgiveness, and his hope when facing death.
In this sermon on Genesis 49, we see how Jacob offered prophetic blessings and warnings on his sons and the tribes who would come from them, as well as the faith Jacob showed as he faced death.
In this sermon on Genesis 48 we see how God orchestrated the incorporation of Ephraim and Manasseh into the tribal structure of Israel, and how we can appreciate the sovereignty of God in the way he gives gifts to his people according to his will.
In this sermon on Genesis 47, we see how God worked through Joseph to provide for Israel, Egypt, and Jacob, and ultimately how God faithfully keeps his covenant and promises to his people.
In this sermon on Genesis 46, we see how God promised to go with Israel down to Egypt and be with them, and how God used Joseph to prepare a suitable home for them.
In the two days comprising the -Galilean Crisis- John writes to you about the miracle, the storm, the sermon, and the response of Jesus to the Jews response to His teaching. It is Jesus' response which we examine presently. He explains the salvation of dead sinners by the saving work of the Holy Spirit. Put simply, 'No Spirit, No Christian'.
Dead men do not cooperate. Salvation can not be by the hand of man but it is by the hand of God. God effectually calls the dead to life and He does this through His Word and His Spirit as is so well taught in Ezekiel's Vision of the Dry Bones -CH37-. Because this is God's work there is hope for every sinner who comes to Jesus.
In this sermon on Genesis 44-45, we see how Joseph finished testing his brothers, how Joseph revealed his identity to them, and how they reconciled.
In this sermon on Genesis 42-43 we see how God used the famine to bring Joseph and his brothers back together, and how Joseph began to test to their character to see if they had in fact become -honest men-.
In this sermon on Genesis 41, we see how God used the dreams of Pharaoh to elevate Joseph as a ruler in Egypt, strategically placing him in a position to save many lives, especially his family, from the coming famine, and fulfill his promises made long before to the patriarchs.
God's kingdom is for the son's of love. Here they are protected, guided, loved, and made holy.
What are your duties which flow out of the redeeming love which God has for you who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ- As you know, Paul has been explaining this since 12-1-2. You and I are to offer our lives up, including our physical bodies, as a sacrifice to God. This sacrifice we offer to God in large part through our interaction with one another in the body of Christ. As the Apostle exhorts us in our text, this sacrifice of ourselves to God, means that we sacrifice our pleasures in order to please our neighbor. How do we do this- What does this mean in our behavior toward our neighbor-
The kingdom of God is righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. These ought to be the characteristics of Christians gathered in worship, fellowship, and work. Yet, these things and the strengthening, uplifting association which ought to occur when Christians are together at not always experienced. Only the Holy Spirit can produce such a community of believers who forbear with one another.
As you come to the Lord's Table the Holy Spirit will be doing many things to you. He is administering God's grace to you as you eat and drink with faith in Jesus. There is a multifaceted glory to this sacramental supper. Consider this facet - your cleansing from former sins. This is the truth about you and me of which we must never lose sight.
Materialists strenuously oppose the resurrection of Jesus for it is the vital contradiction to their faith and worldview. All of Man's Utopian schemes are staked through the heart by the bodily resurrection of Christ. Two-thousand years ago Jesus' body was resurrected, leaving the tomb empty, and it is this historical fact that sets Christianity apart from all other religions whose founders are dead.
Genesis reveals to us the God who loving sinners, seeks the lost. The first eleven chapters of Genesis are the foundation of all the Bible- the necessity of the republication of the Law at Sinai, the establishment of the ceremonial law, the possession of the land under Joshua, the dynasty of King David, the praises and petitions of the Psalms, the legal indictments of the prophets against covenant breakers, the incarnation of Jesus, His crucifixion, death, resurrection and session on the throne at His Father's right hand, the preaching of the apostles, and the final consummation of history in Revelation 21-22. All this presupposes the space-time history of Genesis. Genesis is structured around people and thereby God begins His self-revelation with the facts of Creation, Fall and Redemption- He being the loving One who seeks out the lost to save them.
We must handle the Bible the way the Bible itself handles it. How did the Apostle Paul read Genesis- Though we could answer this question from Acts or any of Paul's epistles, we will look at Romans.
That the Triune God created all that has come into existence has been the uniform confession of God's people through all time. It is the fundamental assertion of the Bible upon which all else rests. Matter abundantly declares, through entropy, that it's existence is dependent. Its cause is not to be found within itself. No wonder then, that this foundational doctrine is the focus of attack by unbelief. How should you read Genesis-
Baptism, why do it- It is a blessing which is commanded by God. The Gospel promise made to Abraham and both signed and sealed in circumcision at that time but now in baptism, has not changed. Throughout the whole Bible the gospel promise is summarized as -I will be your God, and you will be My people-. Why the change in sign- Because after Jesus came the promise was opened up to all no longer just to Jews. So the sign is more inclusive.
Does your alarm have a snooze button on it- Every use it- When you do so are you thinking why should I wake up now- Paul knows that you are thinking about hitting the snooze button regarding the ethical implications of your receiving God's grace, so in these last four verses of Chapter 13 he tells you why you must not do so, why you must wake up and get serious about walking with Jesus.
You have seen it in the movies. Some of you have experienced it first hand playing team sports. The coach has given you pointed instructions, -Stay tight on Roger he is their favorite receiver and most of the passes will come his way. Don't let Tommy get past you for he is powerful, and fast and their runner of choice.- He has finished his instructions, then every team member joins hands, repeats some memorized chant, and everyone shouts, -Let's go do it and show everyone who knows how to play football.- Then the players run onto the field taking their positions ready for action. This is what the Apostle does in these verses.
You who believe the Bible to be the Word of God understand that God has defined certain primary social structures- self, family, church, and state. Yet, as one looks around, particularly at the church, one sees such a variety of forms and of functions that he wonders if God has failed to give clear instruction regarding the church. But is this confusion to be identified with God speaking equivocally, or with men, even professing Christian men, not listening clearly to God- Joshua was a man who listened to God, who trembled at His word.
Should judgment ever be administered- Is not love incompatible with judgment- The enemies of Christianity make use of such sentiments to discredit Christians. They could even point to the final verses of chapter 12, attempting to support their lie. Toleration is not the greatest virtue but godliness is. False preachers have told their subjects that the Apostle Paul rules out all judgment. The lie has presently won. The civil government has been established by God to exercise the ministry of justice under God's law.
How did God conquer you- Did He not subdue you to Himself, winning your love for Him by doing good to you even though you were His enemy- These mercies of God toward you and me, who were doing Him evil, are the story of the Gospel. This is how God behaves toward you, and how you ought to behave toward others. Evil is conquered by doing good.
The present reigning morality is that of pragmatism. 'Do whatever it takes to accomplish your determined goal or outcome.' If what you do helps you achieve your desire then it was good and wise. These final verses of Romans 12 are a direct rebuke of the current thinking in our culture. Once again you are brought face to face with the antithesis of Christian life to the world. Ever had evil done to you- Did you want to return evil, to get even- The Holy Spirit says you must not do so.
Paul is expounding the love that is without hypocrisy in this verse 16. This sincere love shows itself in the unity and one mindedness of the saints. He warns you against two mindsets that erode unity, and commands one activity which builds up one mindedness.
What is Truth- Does it exist- Our culture denies the reality of objective, unchanging truth. Culture has replaced God as the source of truth, however culture's truth is evolving, changing. Being of one mind presupposes unchanging truth which can be known because the God who knows all things has revealed some things to us without error. He has done this with the Bible composed of 66 books. Without this there can not be one mindedness among His saints.
So now that you are a Christian, how then ought you to live- To the Thessalonians Paul wrote, -... dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.- The Apostle, from chapter 12, verse 1, has been working out the meaning of -obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus-. You, enjoying the empathy of the Lord Jesus,must model your living after Him and thus also empathize with others.
The Apostle begins in verse 14, a new section of his application of the mercies of God in the life of the Christian. He had been dealing with Christian respecting Christians, but now he begins teaching Christians how to behave toward their enemies. It is in the treatment of enemies that Christianity demonstrates its supernaturalism and its superiority to all man-made religion.
-And indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.- Paul's exhortations to you in verse 12, were to you as being persecuted. In verse 13, these exhortations are to you in your ministry to other saints who are being persecuted. The Christian may become discouraged because his needs are not being met, so you come alongside and meet his needs. Or the Christian my be struggling because he is alone, then you come to him and love this Christian whom you previous did not know. You keep the saints strong by bearing their burdens.
How prone are you to pray- How often did you pray yesterday- Our Christian Fathers would frequently speak of one's prayers as the thermometer of their love for God. They were very wise in their understanding. Paul's simple exhortation to you and to me is -To prayer devoted-. He commands us to be devoted to communion with God through prayer. How great, how consistent is your devotion to prayer-
That Jesus is seeking and saving those who are lost is not something new in the New Testament. Here in the third chapter of Genesis, immediately following the first sin of man, we find Jesus seeking the sinners, Adam and Eve. The hope of redemption and the reality of God's mercy are historically demonstrated by Jesus walking in the Garden of Eden.
Depression, despair, and degradation are all around us in the world. Major West Coast cities are overwhelmed with used needles and human feces on their sidewalks. People are disfiguring their own bodies in the pursuit of being noticed and being accepted. Sin seems to be running along unchecked, and even professing Christians are largely ignorant of the Bible. How do you keep pressing on in the midst of such sin and its dehumanizing effect- What does Jesus require of you respecting your view of this world and your life in it- Paul knows what you are facing and he tells you how he lived in the midst of sin's degradation and the threat of his life for teaching about the glorious Savior Jesus Christ.
In 2 Chronicles 16-9, we are told that God is searching for one whose heart is completely His. How do you become one of these whom God may strongly support, whose heart is completely His- King Solomon answers in Proverbs 4-23, -Watch over your heart for from it flow the springs of life.- You must keep watch or you will fail the exhortation in Romans 12-11.