New Hope Reformed Church: Recent Episodes
The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the Prophets:"Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,Who will prepare Your way before You." "The voice of one crying in the wilderness:'Prepare the way of the LORD;Make His paths straight.' "
This small Psalm provides a picturesque description of the blessings and hope that accompany unity within Christ's church. How pleasant and good is it when brothers dwell together in unity. Unfortunately when that unity is absent or false unity that don't have the peace and purity of the church alongside, that pleasantness and goodness are absent. Pray for the peace, unity and purity of Christ's church for His glory.
Romans 5-5-Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Psalm 65-4-Blessed is the man You choose,-And cause to approach You,-That he may dwell in Your courts.-We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house,-Of Your holy temple.
Romans 4-20-25-He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. And therefore -it was accounted to him for righteousness.--Now it was not written for his sake alone that it was imputed to him, but also for us. It shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.
Romans 4-11-12-And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while still uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they are uncircumcised, that righteousness might be imputed to them also, and the father of circumcision to those who not only are of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of the faith which our father Abraham had while still uncircumcised.
Romans 4-5-8-But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness, just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works-----Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven,---And whose sins are covered----Blessed is the man to whom the LORD shall not impute sin.-
Romans 4-1-3-What then shall we say that Abraham our father has found according to the flesh-- For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say-- -Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.
Romans 14-1, 5-Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things...One person esteems one day above another- another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind.
In Acts 2, on Pentecost, Peter gave an exegetical sermon on the resurrection quoting from Joel as well as Psalm 110 and Psalm 16. He demonstrates that the Old Testament provides hope for the resurrection and points to the final hope-the resurrection of the true King of Israel. Christ is risen- He is risen indeed-
Psalm 11-1, 7-In the LORD I put my trust--How can you say to my soul,--Flee as a bird to your mountain----For the LORD is righteous,-He loves righteousness--His countenance beholds the upright.
Romans 3-21-22-But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe.
Romans 3-20-Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight- for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Romans 1-16-19-For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith- as it is written, -The just shall live by faith.--For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.
Romans 1-9-17 -For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you. For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established- that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.- -Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you -but was hindered until now-, that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles. I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also.--For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith- as it is written, -The just shall live by faith.-
Romans 1-1-7-Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name, among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ----To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints----Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 2-1-2- 14-17-Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle -in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder-, that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior,--Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless- and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation-as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
Psalm 20-To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.-1 May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble----May the name of the God of Jacob defend you--2 --May He send you help from the sanctuary,---And strengthen you out of Zion--3 --May He remember all your offerings,---And accept your burnt sacrifice.Selah---4 --May He grant you according to your heart's desire,---And fulfill all your purpose.-5 --We will rejoice in your salvation,---And in the name of our God we will set up our banners----May the LORD fulfill all your petitions.---6 --Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed----He will answer him from His holy heaven---With the saving strength of His right hand.---7 --Some trust in chariots, and some in horses----But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.-8 --They have bowed down and fallen----But we have risen and stand upright.---9 --Save, LORD----May the King answer us when we call.
How does Christ's message to the church at Pergamos in Revelation 2 speak to the idea of attending a gay wedding or other ceremonies that celebrate sinful practices. How do we actively live as Christ is Lord in a pluralistic society-even in an environment where Antipas could be killed -or made unemployed or called unloving---
2 Peter 3-7-13-But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.--But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.--But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat- both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat-- Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
2 Peter 3-1-2-Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle -in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder-, that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior,
2 Peter 2-18-For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error.
Psalm 36-10-12-Oh, continue Your lovingkindness to those who know You,---And Your righteousness to the upright in heart.---Let not the foot of pride come against me,---And let not the hand of the wicked drive me away.-There the workers of iniquity have fallen----They have been cast down and are not able to rise.
1 John 5-7-8 -NKJV--For there are three that bear witness in heaven- the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit- and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness on earth- the Spirit, the water, and the blood- and these three agree as one.
Psalm 8--O LORD, our Lord,---How excellent is Your name in all the earth,---Who have set Your glory above the heavens------Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants---You have ordained strength,---Because of Your enemies,---That You may silence the enemy and the avenger.-----When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers,---The moon and the stars, which You have ordained,---What is man that You are mindful of him,---And the son of man that You visit him-----For You have made him a little lower than the angels,---And You have crowned him with glory and honor.-----You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands----You have put all things under his feet,---All sheep and oxen----Even the beasts of the field,-The birds of the air,---And the fish of the sea---That pass through the paths of the seas.---O LORD, our Lord,---How excellent is Your name in all the earth-
2 Peter 1-16-21-For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory- -This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.- And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.-And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts- knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
2 Peter 1-11-15-...for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.--For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, though you know and are established in the present truth. Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you, knowing that shortly I must put off my tent, just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. Moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my decease.
2 Peter 1-2-4-Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
1 Peter 5-10-But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.-1 Peter 4-19
The creation account in Genesis 1-1-2-3 establishes several truths---1. God exists-2. God is all powerful -3. God is the creator -4. God is a moral being-5. Death, decay and suffering is not intrinsic to goodness or the created order-6. God is the owner-definer of essence -7. God is the initator of the Suzerain Covenant-8. Man Is lower than God but is higher than all other created creatures-9. Man has a given purpose
1 Peter 4-7-8-But the end of all things is at hand- therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for -love will cover a multitude of sins.-
Psalm 19-1, 7-The heavens declare the glory of God--And the firmament shows His handiwork.--The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul--The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple-
1 Peter 4-1-6-Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles-when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you. They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
Proverbs 23-17-18-Do not let your heart envy sinners,---But be zealous for the fear of the LORD all the day--For surely there is a hereafter,---And your hope will not be cut off.
1 Peter 3-15-16-But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear- having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
1 Peter 3-8-12-Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another- love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous- not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. For------He who would love life---And see good days,---Let him refrain his tongue from evil,---And his lips from speaking deceit.-Let him turn away from evil and do good----Let him seek peace and pursue it.---For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,---And His ears are open to their prayers----But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.
Psalm 66-16-20---Come and hear, all you who fear God,---And I will declare what He has done for my soul.---I cried to Him with my mouth,---And He was extolled with my tongue.---If I regard iniquity in my heart,---The Lord will not hear.---But certainly God has heard me----He has attended to the voice of my prayer.--Blessed be God,---Who has not turned away my prayer,---Nor His mercy from me-
1 Peter 3-1-7 --Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. Do not let your adornment be merely outward-arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel- rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.--Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
1 Peter 2-18-25-Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently-- But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps-----Who committed no sin,---Nor was deceit found in His mouth-----who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return- when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously- who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness-by whose stripes you were healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
1 Peter 2-19-25-For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently-- But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps-------Who committed no sin,---Nor was deceit found in His mouth-----who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return- when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously- who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness-by whose stripes you were healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
-From birth, we are taught that SLAVERY is the greatest of all sins.-There can be no nuance- all forms of slavery must be viewed the same. There can be no discussion of the matter. The Evangelical church acts just as the Liberal- yet claims to hold to Biblical inerrancy-So- how do they deal with such texts as 1 Peter 2-18- Servants -actually slaves is the better translation of the Greek word doulos-, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh--
Thinking of Christians and politics-- Pondering thoughts on Christian Nationalism-- In chapter 2 of his first epistle Peter addresses our sojourning in this world and how we are to honor kings and rulers and how we are to fear our High King.
1 Peter 2-11-12-Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
1 Peter 2-1-10-Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.--Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture,------Behold, I lay in Zion---A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,---And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.----Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious- but to those who are disobedient,------The stone which the builders rejected---Has become the chief cornerstone,----and------A stone of stumbling---And a rock of offense.----They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.-But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light- who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
Psalm 48-1, 14 --Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised-In the city of our God,-In His holy mountain.--For this is God,-Our God forever and ever--He will be our guide-Even to death.
Psalm 84 is a pilgrim Psalm that describes God's peoples travels through the Valley of Bacca or Weeping. God reminds us that His mercies can redeem our weeping and turn it into places of refreshment.
The actions of the people of God are measured by the moral actions of the law. It is how you love Christ. It is how you love God. It is how you love each other. And so Peter says this is the work of God, that you love the brethren. That would be a popular sermon in many church today-heard as -Go out and have a warm feeling about people.- And that is not actually what love is. Love is obey God's commandments in regards to other people, in regards to God Himself, in regards to Christ. This is love enacted and this is what love does under the gospel. Peter calls us to work the works of God-to love the brethren. Gird up your minds to do the work God has called you to do which is to love the brethren. And this is not the easy, worldly way some use this word. It means to obey God's law and Word concerning them.
In both Deuteronomy and the Gospels we hear that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord our God with all our soul, with all our heart and with all our mind. In today' text, Peter explains how we are to take our mind captive, to gird up the loins of our minds to make us fit for service to God's glory.
1 Peter 1-7b-12 -Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith-the salvation of your souls.-Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. To them it was revealed that, not to themselves, but to us they were ministering the things which now have been reported to you through those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven-things which angels desire to look into.
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ--Grace to you and peace be multiplied.-Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.-In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith-the salvation of your souls.-Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. To them it was revealed that, not to themselves, but to us they were ministering the things which now have been reported to through those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 5-23-24-Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely- and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.
Psalm 146-Praise the LORD------Praise the LORD, O my soul----While I live I will praise the LORD----I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.-----Do not put your trust in princes,---Nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.---His spirit departs, he returns to his earth----In that very day his plans perish.-----Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,---Whose hope is in the LORD his God,---Who made heaven and earth,---The sea, and all that is in them----Who keeps truth forever,---Who executes justice for the oppressed,---Who gives food to the hungry.---The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners.-----The LORD opens the eyes of the blind----The LORD raises those who are bowed down----The LORD loves the righteous.---The LORD watches over the strangers----He relieves the fatherless and widow----But the way of the wicked He turns upside down.-----The LORD shall reign forever----Your God, O Zion, to all generations.-----Praise the LORD-
1 Thessalonians 5-12-13-And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. Be at peace among yourselves.
Proverbs 4-18- But the path of the just is like the shining sun,-That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.--1 Thessalonians 5-8-11 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.-Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.
1 Thessalonians 4-1-Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God-
1 Thessalonians 3-11-13-Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you. And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you, so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.
1 Thessalonians 2 answers several questions about the faith including those about the nature of Christian leadership, and how the church-Christianity has survived over the centuries.
1 Thessalonians 1-5--For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.
Hebrews 2-5-9-5 For He has not put the world to come, of which we speak, in subjection to angels. 6 But one testified in a certain place, saying-------What is man that You are mindful of him,---Or the son of man that You take care of him---7 --You have made him a little lower than the angels----You have crowned him with glory and honor,-fn----And set him over the works of Your hands.-8 --You have put all things in subjection under his feet.--fn----For in that He put all in subjection under him, He left nothing that is not put under him. But now we do not yet see all things put under him. 9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone.
The world says do not judge and says God's Word makes this demand. In today's text Jesus tells the crowds following Him to judge Him and in doing so teaches us what it means to judge, whom to judge and what standard we are to use. A much needed message for today.
Philippians 4-1-7-Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved.--I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.-Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice--Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.-Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God- and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Psalm 33-3-5-Sing to Him a new song----Play skillfully with a shout of joy.-----For the word of the LORD is right,---And all His work is done in truth.---He loves righteousness and justice----The earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.
2 Timothy 3-16-17-All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
John 6-63- -It is the Spirit who gives life- the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.-
-This is the bread which came down from heaven-not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever.- John 6-58
Want to find God-- He will be with Christ. You will not find God without Christ. The Son will be next to Him The Son has cried out to the Father, -Give Me My heart's desire- and God has said to Him, -Yes, go do that.- He is the delight of the Father. He is what God is doing. Christ and His kingdom are what the Father is about. If you would find God, you will find His King and He is in His kingdom. That is where blessing is. We have the source of eternal blessing because if we are given by the Father to Christ we are in this kingdom. That is utterly assured and the fount of blessing is in Him.
The Son will not lose any that have been given to Him by the Father. Those of us who have been made alive will be made even more alive at the resurrection. Such is the promise of God.
Psalm 64-9-10--All men shall fear,---And shall declare the work of God----For they shall wisely consider His doing.---The righteous shall be glad in the LORD, and trust in Him.---And all the upright in heart shall glory.
Do you have troubles and sorrows this day-- Are there things that bother you deeply-- Well, join the club. We still live in a world of tears and sorrow but God has included us. He has brought us into His presence in Christ. None of the sorrows or troubles you are working with can compare to the grace He has given. Let us be thankful to God with no change in our outer experience at all because we do not need it. God has blessed us with Himself in Christ. He has opened His temple and brought us to Himself. Everything else pales in comparison that that. Now we find God good and we find God gracious. We take our troubles and sorrows to Him in prayer -and I encourage you to do so- but if not one of your prayers this day is answered as you would have it be thankful and grateful anyway. God has brought you to Himself in Christ. There is no greater blessing beyond.
Today's passage from John 5 centers us on the truths that Jesus is truly divine and truly our sovereign King.
The book of Ruth is set during the time of Israel's judges and is a character study of three people living in those perilous and interesting times. This sermon focuses on a fourth 'character', the primary focus of the book, God Himself. The question arises, what does the book of Ruth tell us about who God is and how He interacts in the lives and circumstances of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. in 4 short chapters there are 11 direct references to the Lord that show His action and providence in building and forwarding His covenant plan.
Our Lord, in His time on earth, not only commanded us to evangelize the world, showed us how by example. In John 4, we see several points that can inspire and aid us as we seek to follow Christ's example.-1. Opportunities for evangelism come via divine appointment.-2. God foreshadowed His message throughout covenant history. -3. Evangelism puts out the fires of Balkanization.-4. Evangelism is strictly about Jesus Christ. -5. The lost may know they have a need but they do not know what they need.-6. The gospel is like cool refreshing water for tired souls crawling through the desert. -7. When God gives water to the lost, it lasts forever. -8. God cares about doctrine.-9. The stinger of the evangelistic message is Christ saying, -I am He-. -10. Evangelism is the Lord using His servants to reveal Himself.
Today we celebrated Christ's Incarnation and celebrated Christmas In July. Matthew's gospel presents 3 kings -not just the 3 Magi depicted in the famous carol- but three kings, 2 earthly, human and spiritual and 1 divine, holy and true. Only one of these Kings is the Lord of Lords, the true King of all kings. Matthew calls us to see the power and humanity of the world and to follow our one true King. Christ is King---Revelation 11-15-18--hen the seventh angel sounded- And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, -The kingdoms-fn- of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever-- 16 And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, 17 saying-------We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty,---The One who is and who was and who is to come,-fn----Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.-18 --The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come,---And the time of the dead, that they should be judged,---And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints,---And those who fear Your name, small and great,---And should destroy those who destroy the earth.-
Psalm 116 presents the life of a simple man -one who willingly and rebelliously lives apart from God in ignorance- -I know I don't know and I don't want to know--. This simple man was led into despair and need and called on God in his desperation. The Psalm illustrates how God's graciousness and righteousness co-mingle and create mercy. That mercy, shown to the simple saves and brings godly effects---1. The no longer simple man loves the Lord with his whole heart.-2. He will seek God and depend on Him always. -3. He will fulfill His vows-he will do the good works that God has predestined and prepared for him to walk in-4. Even death will be transformed by God's mercy-5. The no longer simple man will have freedom from fear both in this life and for eternity. --Psalm 116-5-7-Gracious is the LORD, and righteous----Yes, our God is merciful.-The LORD preserves the simple----I was brought low, and He saved me.-Return to your rest, O my soul,---For the LORD has dealt bountifully with you.
Augustine spoke, -I believe that I may understand-, a truth that can be drawn from Psalm 131. The Psalmist describes those whose wills have risen before understanding but have had their will broken. Not broken by cruelty or negligent. Instead, the will has been broken by care and love and promised of better and greater sustenance. As believers, we are like a weaned child, calm and quiet, who has come to trust their parent and will come to understand. In that trust we can obey the Psalmist who says -Hope in the Lord-- Hope looks forward on the basis of faith knowing what has already happened and been promised. Faith is the beginning of real, knowledgeable life.
What is the essence of substitutionary atonement-- Christ is the wrath of God for the world but the grace of God for those who have been given faith.
Psalm 148 commands and calls, Let EVERYTHING glorify God and enjoy Him forever. God will glorify Himself. He will establish the horn of Israel. The Psalmist calls upon all creation to glorify Him. Separation of church and state-- Maybe, but there's no separation of Christ and state. No separation of Christ and culture. No separation of Christ and school. No separation of Christ and politeness. No separation of Christ from any aspect of creation. He made it all and the person who knows he's called to glorify God and enjoy Him forever can't rest until ALL creation is praising Him.
Absalom's story of usurping power includes offering to be the savior of his nation. It serves as a reminder that no -ism or -ocracy can save. Our salvation comes from God alone.
Psalm 147- 8-9-God reigns over the nations----God sits on His holy throne.---The princes of the people have gathered together,---The people of the God of Abraham.---For the shields of the earth belong to God----He is greatly exalted.
From the account of the cleansing of the temple recorded in John 2, we learn several lessons---1. God's worship is to come only from God's plans.-2. God desires worship from a converted heart, not from pretty aesthetics.-3. God sees and knows the difference-what is in a man, his motivations, reasons and reasoning. God HATES hypocrisy. -4. True religion is about the true temple-Jesus.
Christ's engagement at the wedding in Cana provides us some interesting truths---1. an understanding of covenants and sacraments-2. how Christians can participate in societal joy-3. what constitutes a miracle, a sign and a wonder-what they are and how they relate to each other-4. What the message and true significance of Christ's first sign is
Today's commenting on our Old Testament reading reminds of our own failures, weaknesses and moral evil. It also reminds us of God's faithful working of His own plan, despite and even through our sins.
Over the centuries the eras of the Church have been defined by essential questions. The early church wrestled with the question, -Who and what is God--- They answered that in the Apostles', Nicene and Athanasius Creeds. The church of the Middle Ages entering the modern world asked, -What is salvation.- and the creeds and confessions of the Reformation framed those answers. Today's church wrestles with the basic question, -By what authority do we do speak--- or -Who or what is our final authority.- Today's text, Psalm 110-1, answers that question telling us who our Overseer, our Bishop, our Elder is and how he governs us.
This, our first sermon from the Gospel of John, explores what a gospel and what THE gospel is. --1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. -John 1-1-5-
Light has glorious meaning throughout Scriptures. Light is- knowledge, purity, safety, goodness, life. - This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.- 1 John 1-5-7
This Psalm -Psalm 87- is about the victory of the kingdom of God. It is a Psalm of the victory of Christ. The eternal God is glorified in Egypt, in Babylon, in Philistia-where even now that is not the case, but the gospel is permeating into the deepest enemies of Christ -where even in North Korea you have a growing number of elect of God being born again-... The gospel is going forth throughout the world and no enemy of the gospel can stand.
Daniel 12, the final prophecy of the prophet's book, is full of promise of the Messiah and the salvation of God's people. Daniel saw and heard but did not understand the vision. The comfort he was given was that had hidden the meaning until it was fulfilled -see v. 4-. When we don't understand God's timing, when we can't see the end of a matter, when simply are not sure, we, like Daniel, can trust hearing the words of the last verse of his book- --But you, go your way till the end- for you shall rest, and will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days.-
Daniel's prophecy in chapters 11 and 12 are the pinnacle of his book and show history which, for Daniel, would have been about 300 years in his future. The vision he saw was of darkness, intrigue, war and horror. This darkness was used by God to lay the foundation for the coming of not just light, but the Light of the World. --Daniel 12-1 --At that time Michael shall stand up,-The great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people--And there shall be a time of trouble,-Such as never was since there was a nation,-Even to that time.-And at that time your people shall be delivered,-Every one who is found written in the book.
Today's sermon was a topical one on Baptism-we visited Vlad the Rus in 988 AD to see how today's Russian Ukraine War has a distinct connection to baptism and looked at the true Biblical doctrine of baptism ending with 1 Peter 3-21, noting that this baptism that saves is a based on the pledge of a good conscience made by God Himself.
God is the creator, the builder, the former, the architect. Part of being made in his image is that we are called to build, to create, to rule justly, to prosper. Do not link arms with a fool, do not be unequally yoked with one who hates God or lacks wisdom. Build wisely to the glory of God.
Psalm 75-10- -All the horns of the wicked I will also cut off,-But the horns of the righteous shall be exalted.---The horns symbolize wicked leaders' power, oppressiveness, and their rule. God says, -As time goes on all the horns of the wicked I will also cut off, but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted.- What does that look like- It looks like a Prime Minister who wants to be a Communist dictator who can't deal with a bunch of truckers. It looks like the greatest army on earth charging into Russia when God decides to send the worst winter of the 20th century on them. They get frustrated because God's hand brings them down in time. It is a shadow of things to come. No despot, no king can grab hold of the world and rule it. God is the ruler. And so He is going to bring things to judgment. Even now we have His promise that no Kim Jong-un or any other despot will have the final say. God will have the final say-God will be the King over the despots, He will not suffer them to succeed. God will rule. He will hold the universe in His hand for His purposes.He will set the end. He will protect the righteous. This is all our Lord Jesus Christ. It is the Christian who can rest in the comfort of Psalm 75 knowing even if the world feels like it's melting, even if he feels like he's melting, Jesus will be Lord. That is an amazing blessing. And what can the church say but -We give thanks to you, O Lord, we give thanks to you- -Psalm 75-1-.
In the events and prophecy that are recorded in the last 3 chapters of Daniel we see a man discouraged, frightened and disheartened. In the midst of his despair Malach Yahweh comes with a message that strengthens Daniel. He shows him history, clearly and specifically. History that will, in the midst of and even using men's evil prepare the way for deliverance-true deliverance in the Messiah, the promise of Israel. --At this moment I can't think of a more encouraging message from God. The diabolical powers that have run the nations have not exactly gotten mellow in their old age. Every nation has demonic spirits that run it. If there was a prince of Persia, there is a prince of America. It's a demonic entity and it's designed to do demonic things. It does them and like John the Apostle tells us, -Beloved, the entire world is in the hands of the devil-. But then he goes on to say, -Christ has overcome the world-. This is where we're at. We are at a spot where evil things are happening. If we consider them we will join Daniel in his mourning and we will won't be wrong to do it. To fast, to pray, to cry out to God because of the wrong in the world. That's a godly thing to do. That's what we ought to do. We ought to have our hearts broken for the wickedness that we are literally drowning in. But God will answer and the answer will be, -History will glorify Me.- The prince of Persia will not stop me. I will defeat him. The prince of any nation will not stop me. I will defeat them. Your people will be delivered. My hand will be supreme. Evil will not reign. That's the simple message of this passage. Jesus brings us history to say, -I will deliver and it won't be stopped.-
The ultimate transgression of human sin is that it walks on the name of God. Daniel doesn't pray about our righteousness. He doesn't pray -Lord, now we've got everything together and please let other people be like us.- He prays, -Lord we are sinning this very moment just like we did under Jehoakim before the disaster. We are a rebellious people but remember Your name. Glorify Yourself before the world. Show Your goodness by being merciful to us. Restore us. Sanctify us. Forgive us. For Your name's sake.- Can you pray for the church at this moment and say, -Lord, We have sinned. We have rebelled. We are doing it this very minute and we need to repent and I am part of that.- Yeah, you can do that. You need to define sin by God's Word. You need to understand that this about God's grace and God's name. You need to walk in a holy, reverent fear before God. You need to absolutely not be coercive of men because that makes you god. Real repentance is when we turn to God. It's not about the issue of the hour. It's about the holiness and goodness of God, defined by the Word of God and taught by the Word of God in flesh. That's what corporate repentance is.
Amos 3-1-8-Hear this word that the LORD has spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying----2 ---You only have I known of all the families of the earth----Therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.----3 --Can two walk together, unless they are agreed--4 --Will a lion roar in the forest, when he has no prey----Will a young lion cry out of his den, if he has caught nothing--5 --Will a bird fall into a snare on the earth, where there is no trap for it----Will a snare spring up from the earth, if it has caught nothing at all--6 --If a trumpet is blown in a city, will not the people be afraid----If there is calamity in a city, will not the LORD have done it----7 --Surely the Lord GOD does nothing,---Unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets.-8 --A lion has roared----Who will not fear----The Lord GOD has spoken-
Daniel 7-13-14---I was watching in the night visions,---And behold, One like the Son of Man,---Coming with the clouds of heaven----He came to the Ancient of Days,---And they brought Him near before Him.-14 --Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom,---That all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him.---His dominion is an everlasting dominion,---Which shall not pass away,---And His kingdom the one---Which shall not be destroyed.
Our two Scripture readings today were Psalm 127 and 2 Samuel. The two texts dovetail together perfectly so this audio contains the commenting on the 2nd Samuel reading as well as the sermon on Psalm 127. --Solomon, the author of Psalm 127, reminds us that unless the Lord builds the house they labor in vain who build and toil. He then describes the foundation God uses to build His kingdom.--In the 2nd Samuel reading, we hear God's Word to David, via the prophet Nathan, telling that David will not build a house for the Lord -a house the Lord hasn't even asked for-. The physical building will be done by David's son, Solomon. For a spiritual, true house and kingdom it is God who builds and grows. He is the builder, giving protection and a kingdom family for His beloved people.
Today we celebrated and remembered the Incarnation and God's Covenant. Through nine scripture readings and responsive carols we saw that God's design through history was to claim for Himself a people and to give His Son an inheritance of the nations for His glory.--How do we worship, hear God's Word, sing and pray- In a manner that honors God's Word, and does not add to or take away from the Word. We hear this from our Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 35---Q. 96 What does God require in the second commandment---A. That we in no way make any image of God, nor worship Him in any other way than He has commanded us in His Word.--97. May we not make any image at all---A. God may not and cannot be imaged in any way- as for creatures, though they may indeed be imaged, yet God forbids the making or keeping of any likeness of them, either to worship them or to serve God by them.--98. But may not pictures be tolerated in churches as books for the people---A. No, for we should not be wiser than God, who will not have His people taught by dumb idols, but by the lively preaching of His Word.
Habakkuk 2-12-14---Woe to him who builds a town with bloodshed,---Who establishes a city by iniquity----Behold, is it not of the LORD of hosts---That the peoples labor to feed the fire,---And nations weary themselves in vain----For the earth will be filled---With the knowledge of the glory of the LORD,---As the waters cover the sea.
This is the hope you have. Your King has been blessed by God, He has walked ahead of you in the life of faith. He has become blessing for you and you can celebrate His strength.
Psalm 37-37-38-Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright----For the future of that man is peace.---But the transgressors shall be destroyed together----The future of the wicked shall be cut off.
Daniel 4-17-'-This decision is by the decree of the watchers,---And the sentence by the word of the holy ones,---In order that the living may know---That the Most High rules in the kingdom of men,---Gives it to whomever He will,---And sets over it the lowest of men.'
Daniel 3-16-18-Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, -O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.-
Daniel 2-20-22--Blessed be the name of God forever and ever,---For wisdom and might are His.-And He changes the times and the seasons----He removes kings and raises up kings----He gives wisdom to the wise---And knowledge to those who have understanding.--He reveals deep and secret things----He knows what is in the darkness,---And light dwells with Him.
Daniel 1- 8 -But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself.--Romans 12-1-2 -With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers, as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies, as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him. Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold, but let God re-mold your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.
Galatians 6-16-And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
Galatians 6-1-5-Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load.
Galatians 5-13-For you, brethren, have been called to liberty- only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
Blessed is the man---Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,---Nor stands in the path of sinners,---Nor sits in the seat of the scornful--2 --But his delight is in the law of the LORD,---And in His law he meditates day and night.-3 --He shall be like a tree---Planted by the rivers of water,---That brings forth its fruit in its season,---Whose leaf also shall not wither----And whatever he does shall prosper.---4 --The ungodly are not so,---But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.-5 --Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,---Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.---6 --For the LORD knows the way of the righteous,---But the way of the ungodly shall perish.
To the Chief Musician. With stringed instruments. On an eight-stringed harp. A Psalm of David.-1 O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your anger,---Nor chasten me in Your hot displeasure.-2 --Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am weak----O LORD, heal me, for my bones are troubled.-3 --My soul also is greatly troubled----But You, O LORD-how long----4 --Return, O LORD, deliver me----Oh, save me for Your mercies' sake--5 --For in death there is no remembrance of You----In the grave who will give You thanks----6 --I am weary with my groaning----All night I make my bed swim----I drench my couch with my tears.-7 --My eye wastes away because of grief----It grows old because of all my enemies.---8 --Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity----For the LORD has heard the voice of my weeping.-9 --The LORD has heard my supplication----The LORD will receive my prayer.-10 --Let all my enemies be ashamed and greatly troubled----Let them turn back and be ashamed suddenly.
Galatians 5-7-9-You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth- This persuasion does not come from Him who calls you. A little leaven leavens the whole lump.
Galatians 5-5-6--For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.-
Galatians 4-31-5-1-So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman but of the free .Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
-Note- this sermon has a short blank portion-scroll to 1-10 to start listening-.--Psalm 101, a Psalm of David, are the vows of a holy king. David, as King of Israel, served not as a high king but a vassal to the true King. This song was his pledges before the Lord God Almighty.--How does this apply to us as servants of God. Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 12 tells us of the meaning of Christ being God's anointed, the Christ. Then in the 2nd part of the Lord's Day we ask why we are called Christians. The answer reminds us that, in faith, we are members of Christ and partake of His anointing. As such, through faith, David's vows in Psalm 101 should also be ours, to serve our true high King. --I will sing of mercy and justice----To You, O LORD, I will sing praises.----I will behave wisely in a perfect way.---Oh, when will You come to me----I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.---I will set nothing wicked before my eyes----I hate the work of those who fall away----It shall not cling to me.---A perverse heart shall depart from me----I will not know wickedness.---Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor,---Him I will destroy----The one who has a haughty look and a proud heart,---Him I will not endure.---My eyes shall be on the faithful of the land,---That they may dwell with me----He who walks in a perfect way,---He shall serve me.---He who works deceit shall not dwell within my house----He who tells lies shall not continue in my presence.---Early I will destroy all the wicked of the land,---That I may cut off all the evildoers from the city of the LORD.
Galatians 4-23-26- But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and he of the freewoman through promise, which things are symbolic. For these are the two covenants- the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar-for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children-but the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all.--Hebrews 11-13-16 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them,embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.
Galatians 4-9-But now after you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn again to the weak and beggarly elements, to which you desire again to be in bondage-
Galatians 4-6-7-And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, -Abba, Father-- Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
This sermon from Galatians 3 reviews the place of the law in the first and second covenants and tackles these three vital questions---1. What happened in our spiritual lives -before faith came---2. What positive role did the Law play in our lives before this coming of faith--3. What is is significant that Moses -and occasionally- angels stood -as a Mediator--
Praise the LORD------Praise, O servants of the LORD,---Praise the name of the LORD--Blessed be the name of the LORD---From this time forth and forevermore----From the rising of the sun to its going down---The LORD's name is to be praised.-----The LORD is high above all nations,---His glory above the heavens.---Who is like the LORD our God,---Who dwells on high,---Who humbles Himself to behold---The things that are in the heavens and in the earth------He raises the poor out of the dust,---And lifts the needy out of the ash heap,---That He may seat him with princes----With the princes of His people.---He grants the barren woman a home,---Like a joyful mother of children.-----Praise the LORD-
The law is really holy, righteous and good-it really is. If you were holy, righteous and good your every thought, word and deed would match this law. And it doesn't. The law existed before God laid it out for you -in Exodus 20-. And when he shows it to you you turn to Christ. And the promise of Christ is before the giving the law. The law doesn't annul that. The law drives you to that and that is an utter grace. The law is not grace but the law is a fire to burn your feet and fry your back until you run to grace and cry for the water that will quench the fiery burning of your imperfection.
Praise the LORD------Blessed is the man who fears the LORD,---Who delights greatly in His commandments.--Following this Psalm's command to praise the Lord we see the definition and the state of the man who fears the Lord, of the one who delights greatly in God's commands.
Galatians 2- 20-21--I have been crucified with Christ- it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me- and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. -I do not set aside the grace of God- for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.-
Psalm 19 provides us with understanding of two of the manners in which God speaks to us-through His creation and through His revealed Word. In 1 John 4 we are reminded of God's third -book of revelation-, His Son who is the Word.
This topical sermon taken primarily from Galatians 1 and 2 explores the heresy in the church in Galatia-a false gospel claiming that to follow Christ one must be tied to and dependent on the law rather than faith. This false gospel leads Paul to exclaim- -You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law- you have fallen from grace.- -Galatians 5-4-. He calls us to -stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free,and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.- -Galatians 5-1-
The proof is in the pudding. Jesus Christ blesses men, makes them different. He makes them walk according to the counsel of God. Galatians 1-24- -And they glorified God in me.-
Psalm 147-19-He declares His word to Jacob,---His statutes and His judgments to Israel.-He has not dealt thus with any nation----And as for His judgments, they have not known them.-----Praise the LORD-
Oh, give thanks to the LORD----Call upon His name----Make known His deeds among the peoples----Sing to Him, sing psalms to Him----Talk of all His wondrous works----Glory in His holy name----Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the LORD--Seek the LORD and His strength----Seek His face evermore-
We've heard these themes as we have trekked through Ephesians- 1. We have every blessing in Christ, 2. Gentiles in Christ are united in the true Israel with covenant believing Jews, 3, living a life worthy of the calling we have received, 4 the Biblical family. Today we heard the next theme- the reality of the spiritual we are called to be equipped for and fight.
The brief message was a commenting on today's Old Testament Scripture reading, 1 Samuel 13. In the grip of fear, fear of the people and a supposed fear of God Almighty, Saul offers a sacrifice with out Samuel being present. Listen to hear God's concerns about our roles in His kingdom, discerning God's Spirit from my emotions and what happens to a man who acts rashly while in the grip of fear.
Do unto others as you would have them do to you. Today we considered this radical teaching of Jesus as it relates to the holocaust of abortion. Consider what it is, how we should act, how we should pray and how we should teach. Listen, be encouraged and do.
Psalm 146-3-4-Do not put your trust in princes,---Nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.-His spirit departs, he returns to his earth----In that very day his plans perish.
Ephesians 4-1-6- I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling- one Lord, one faith, one baptism- one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you in all.
Ephesians 2-14-16--For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity.---Christ is our peace and has, as the Apostle Paul describes above, broken down the wall of separation, -the enmity that is the law of commandments contained in the ordinances.- The ceremonial sacrifices and ordinances of the first covenant are taken away in Christ. What of, however, the two ordinances given to God's people that are said to be everlasting-circumcision and the Passover. If they are everlasting, where are they in the second covenant- How do we interact with them in Christ. How do they they relate -and they do- to baptism and the Lord's Supper. Today's topical sermon addresses those questions pointing us to the origin and meaning of our two sacraments and who is to be brought to or come to them.
The gospel summarized in two words. -But God-- two of the most beautiful and powerful words in the Bible. - BUT GOD, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ -by grace you have been saved-, and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.- Ephesians 2-4-6
Ephesians 1-15-16, -15 Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.---Galatians 5-6, -For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.-
Psalm 53-6 Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come out of Zion- -When God brings back the captivity of His people,-Let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad.--Ephesians 1-3-6 - Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.
In Joel 3, the prophet declares the coming judgment of God on the whole earth- And what is the reason for that judgment- God's love for His own people- And what happens after the judgement- ---So you shall know that I am the LORD your God,---Dwelling in Zion My holy mountain.---Then Jerusalem shall be holy,---And no aliens shall ever pass through her again.----And it will come to pass in that day---That the mountains shall drip with new wine,---The hills shall flow with milk,---And all the brooks of Judah shall be flooded with water----A fountain shall flow from the house of the LORD---And water the Valley of Acacias.-----Egypt shall be a desolation,---And Edom a desolate wilderness,---Because of violence against the people of Judah,---For they have shed innocent blood in their land.-But Judah shall abide forever, And Jerusalem from generation to generation. For I will acquit them of the guilt of bloodshed, whom I had not acquitted- --For the LORD dwells in Zion.--Joel 3-17-21
The book of Joel is one of the later prophets and his prophecies concern and challenge not idolatry but the cynicism and nihilism that riddled Israel after the return from captivity. The 2nd chapter tells of a coming time, a real event that would happen to real people-the gracious outpouring of God's Spirit in full measure. In addition to Joel's prophecy, this morning we also heard from Acts 2-the account that Joel was telling of. We also sang Psalm 110 and Psalm 16, both of which are quoted by Peter in his sermon on Pentecost. Give thanks to our God for pouring out His Spirit and that His Spirit lives with us and in us in full measure.
This topical sermon addresses the question, -What do our children need to know and believe when making a public profession of their faith.- It's purpose is to answer that question and provide guidance to parents in teaching and training their children in truth and helping to guide and assess their spiritual walks. A listening-note guide is attached.
Colossians 3-8-11 -J.B.Phillips---But now, put all these things behind you. No more evil temper or furious rage- no more evil thoughts or words about others, no more evil thoughts or words about God, and no more filthy conversation. Don't tell each other lies any more, for you have finished with the old man and all he did and have begun life as the new man, who is out to learn what he ought to be, according to the plan of God. In this new man of God's design there is no distinction between Greek and Hebrew, Jew or Gentile, foreigner or savage, slave or free man. Christ is all that matters for Christ lives in them all.
Colossians 2-13-15, -And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, 14 having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.-
-Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily- and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.- Colossians 2-8-10
Our second sermon from this Lord's Day allowed us to continue hearing from Colossians chapter 1. The apostle encourages us with the wonderful truth of the gospel-that by God's grace we have been transformed and transferred.
Paul begins his letter to Colossae with the trio of virtues, faith, hope and love and tells how the build on each other, with faith and love being built upon hope. He expounds on prayer teaching us how to pray for our spiritually healthy brethren who need frequent, fervent and specific prayer.
Psalm 101 is a perfect example of a Suzerain vow. Is it attainable- Could David or any mere human fulfill the vows made in this Psalm- David must make these vows because they are the vows of king. They are a shadow, a type of the Greater David, Jesus Christ. Christ is the King under His Father and He makes these vows before His Father. He will keep them perfectly, faithfully. He, as our King, destroys all evil and keeps the world, the flesh and the devil from breaching the kingdom walls and destroying us.
Our sermon from Luke 12-54-13-9 is below. In addition to this main text in which Christ calls those in the visible church to discern the times and their spiritual estates, we opened the following Scriptures---Luke 12-54-13-9-Ecclesiastes 9-11-12-Ecclesiastes 12-13-14-Titus 2-11-14-Titus 1-15-16-Galatians 5-6--Discern the times- judge the times- come to peace with your adversary- bear fruit.