Hopewell Associate Reformed Presbyterian: Recent Episodes
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 65—especially explaining Christ's anointing as our Prophet, Priest, and King. Q65. What are they? The offices of a prophet, of a priest, and of a king. The lesson explains the three anointed offices of Christ as Prophet, Priest, and King, derived from the meaning of the title 'Christ'. It contrasts Jesus's perfect fulfillment of these roles with the incomplete types found in Moses, Aaron, and David. The text highlights how Jesus serves as the ultimate Prophet revealing God's word, the eternal Priest offering a final atoning sacrifice, and the Forever King from David's line. These offices were inaugurated, in His earthly ministry, at His baptism when the Holy Spirit descended upon Him. The central message affirms that Jesus alone fully embodies these roles to redeem His people.
The union of believers is a union of consecration, participation, and growth—a union that is in Christ Himself.
If we are going to see things correctly, we need to look at them eyes for God, as instructed by His Word.
If we are going to see things correctly, we need to look at them eyes for God, as instructed by His Word.
The union of believers is a union of consecration, participation, and growth—a union that is in Christ Himself.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 63—especially explaining how all God-given sacrifices pointed sinners to believe in Christ. Q63. What did these sacrifices represent? Christ, the Lamb of God, Who was to die for sinners. The lesson explores the theological significance of Old Testament sacrifices as pointing to Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. It traces this theme from the first gospel promise in Genesis through Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac, highlighting his faith that God would provide a substitute. The message emphasizes that salvation has always been only through faith in Christ, whether prospective or retrospective, as illustrated by the Passover and affirmed in Revelation. By examining these passages, the teaching reinforces that Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of all God-given sacrifices. This understanding assures believers that redemption is found exclusively through faith in Jesus.
Our Lord Jesus, acknowledging Him to be God in this statement. In the night wherein he was betrayed, instituted the sacrament of his body and blood, called the Lord's Supper.
In order to respond rightly to providence, believers must come, with humility and praise, to consider Whose work it is, and what He has already done, in accordance with His character.
In order to respond rightly to providence, believers must come, with humility and praise, to consider Whose work it is, and what He has already done, in accordance with His character.
How do we have peace with one another? Ephesians 2:14–18 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ Himself is how we have peace with one another. The devotional exposits Ephesians 2:14-18, identifying Jesus as the source of a comprehensive peace that operates in multiple dimensions. It outlines how Christ abolishes the ceremonial law separating Jews and Gentiles, creates a new unified humanity, and removes the enmity between sinful humans and God. The message emphasizes that this reconciliation is applied personally to the conscience through faith, granting believers direct access to the Father via the Holy Spirit. This Trinitarian fellowship establishes a profound bond among believers, transcending ethnic and national divisions. Consequently, the congregation is called to live in harmony with one another, grounded in the reality of the peace Christ has secured.
How does the Lord answer Habakkuk's concerns? Habakkuk 1:5–11 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must remember God Himself, when we consider His providence. This devotional explores the theme of divine providence through Habakkuk's encounter with God regarding the rise of the Chaldeans. Pastor emphasizes that God's ways are beyond human scrutiny, requiring believers to cultivate humility rather than judgment. By examining the wickedness of the Babylonians, the text illustrates how God sovereignly uses even evil nations to accomplish His purposes for discipline and justice. The message encourages trusting in God's character and wisdom despite present hardships, pointing to the cross as the ultimate proof of His goodness. Ultimately, the devotional calls for a posture of faithful submission and confidence in God's control over all circumstances.
What does God do for His people and His anointed? 1Chronicles 14 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these seventeen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God blesses His people, through His blessed anointed one. The devotional notes how 1Chronicles contrasts King David's faithfulness with Saul's unfaithfulness. It emphasizes that while David sinned by multiplying wives, God's mercy and the exaltation of his kingdom point toward the ultimate fulfillment in Christ. The text serves to encourage believers to persevere in loyalty to the Davidic line, recognizing Jesus as the sinless King who intercedes for His people. This theological perspective moves us to live with greater courage and joy under God's sovereign purpose.
How much evidence is enough to resolve unbelief? Mark 8:11–21 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that unbelief is not resolved by more evidence, but by eliminating the unbelief itself. The devotional examines Mark 8:11-21 to find that the root of spiritual blindness is a hardened heart rather than a lack of evidence. The Pharisees' demand for signs results in Jesus's warning against the leaven of unbelief and skepticism. Pastor emphasizes that believers also struggle with doubt, when they judge by external circumstances instead of God's Word, character, and work. True faith requires the Holy Spirit to soften the heart and enable perception. Ultimately, living by faith depends on continual reliance on God's grace to overcome remaining sin.
What hope can a sinner have before God? Job 11 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, though sinners may be tempted to find hope through their repenting, the only true hope that they can have is in God's mercy. The devotional analyzes Zophar's speech in Job 11 to illustrate the danger of relying on theological knowledge without humility or self-awareness. Although Zophar speaks truths about God's sovereignty, his pride and misrepresentation of Job's condition reveal a lack of true understanding. Job contrasts this with the gospel, emphasizing that human righteousness is insufficient for standing before God. Instead, justification comes solely through faith in Christ, not through self-improved behavior or repentance efforts. The message calls believers to cling to Christ alone and seek humility from the Holy Spirit.
Believers must look to the Lord, as they wrestle with the burden of experiences that don't seem to correspond to the gospel.
Believers must look to the Lord, as they wrestle with the burden of experiences that don't seem to correspond to the gospel.
By the right use of this ordinance the grace promised is not only offered, but really exhibited and conferred by the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as that grace belongeth unto, according to the counsel of God's own will, in his appointed time.
What has Christ's reconciliation done? Ephesians 2:11–13 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ's reconciliation has brought us near to a holy God. The devotional expounds on Ephesians 2 to establish a triple foundation for believers to walk in good works. It highlights that Christians are created anew for this purpose, incorporated into the commonwealth of Christ, and bound to God through the new covenant. The text contrasts the former state of Gentiles as aliens from these promises with their current status as brought near by Jesus's blood. This theological framework provides hope and obligation, motivating believers to live out the good works prepared by God. Pastor concludes with a call to remember these truths as a help to walking faithfully.
Whom does Jesus save? Mark 7:25–8:10 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is an abundant Savior for a multitude from all the nations. The devotional explores Jesus's ministry in Gentile territories to demonstrate that He is the Savior for all nations, not just Israel. Through the accounts of the Syrophoenician woman and the healing of the deaf man, the text highlights how Christ fulfills Old Testament prophecies by extending grace and power beyond Jewish boundaries. The feeding of the four thousand further illustrates His abundant provision and the profound spiritual hunger that He gives even Gentile sinners. These events collectively affirm that Jesus does all things well, fulfilling every promise regarding His role as Mediator and Redeemer. Believers are encouraged to trust in His complete sufficiency and prioritize nearness to Him above physical comfort.
What is Job's biggest concern? Job 9:27–10:22 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-one verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Job's biggest concern is that, while he had been hoping for mercy through a Mediator, it does not seem to him that he actually has this with God. The devotional explores Job's desperate transition from addressing his friends to directly pleading with God, highlighting his fear that he is being judged by strict justice rather than grace. It emphasizes Job's longing for a Mediator who can bridge the gap between humanity and the holy and just God, contrasting this need with Bildad's insufficient advice to simply improve one's behavior. Pastor applies Job's anguish to the terror believers may feel when their assurance of salvation is shaken by suffering or doubt. Rather than offering false comfort, the text encourages genuine wrestling with God, pointing to Christ as the ultimate Mediator who lays His hand on both parties. The message concludes with a call to rely on sovereign grace and the finished work of Jesus rather than personal merit or outward appearances of piety.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 61—especially explaining how Jesus is the only Savior that sinners could ever have. Q61. How were pious persons saved before the coming of Christ? By believing in a Savior to come. The lesson clarifies that pious individuals before Christ were saved by faith in a coming Savior, not by animal sacrifices which could not remove sin. It highlights Genesis 15:6 to show that Abraham's righteousness came through belief, establishing a continuity of salvation by faith across both testaments. Pastor explains the early biblical hope found in Genesis 3 and 4, where Adam and Eve anticipated a Descendant who would crush the serpent's head. This expectation underscores the necessity of an eternal Savior Whose atonement matches God's infinite glory. Ultimately, the message affirms that salvation has always been rooted in trusting in Jesus Christ alone as the promised Redeemer.
Why should we watch against laziness? Proverbs 26:13–16 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that laziness is a very deadly folly. This passage exposes the great danger of laziness. Pastor describes how the lazy person fabricates excuses, mimics activity without making real progress, and feels weary simply at the thought of work. A central theme is the delusion of self-wisdom, where the lazy individual considers himself superior to those who act justly. This hardened state of foolishness leaves little hope for deliverance. The message concludes with a call to seek God's mercy and cultivate genuine diligence in life.
God glorifies Himself by justifying us apart from any works of our own, and by producing in us works that could not have come from us.
God glorifies Himself by justifying us apart from any works of our own, and by producing in us works that could not have come from us.
The efficacy of baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein it is administered; yet, notwithstanding, by the right use of this ordinance the grace promised is not only offered, but really exhibited and conferred by the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as that grace belongeth unto, according to the counsel of God's own will, in his appointed time.
Salvation must be entirely by grace, because it takes us from the lowest we could possibly be; and, it must be only by God's own grace, because it takes us as high as we can possibly be.
Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this ordinance, yet grace and salvation are not so inseparably annexed unto it, as that no person can be regenerated or saved without it, or that all that are baptized are undoubtedly regenerated.
Salvation must be entirely by grace, because it takes us from the lowest we could possibly be; and, it must be only by God's own grace, because it takes us as high as we can possibly be.
Not only those that do actually profess faith in and obedience unto Christ, but also the infants of one or both believing parents are to be baptized.
Truly Sweet Friendship [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 27:9] Pastor teaches his family a selection from "the Proverb of the day." In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that truly sweet friendship is friendship that is good for the soul, before God. The devotional explores the biblical concept of friendship as a spiritual discipline rooted in Proverbs 27:9. It argues that true companionship transcends superficial enjoyment and must include hearty counsel that benefits the soul. Believers are called to interact with mutual encouragement that deepens their knowledge of God and the gospel. Such relationships reflect the dignity of having souls rather than merely earthly desires. The message concludes by praying for grace to be and find friends who glorify God together.
What do we do, when we see unfaithfulness in the government and the church? Zephaniah 3:1–8 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the faithful remnant waits upon the Lord's faithfulness. The devotional examines Zephaniah 3:1–8 to highlight Jerusalem's persistent rebellion despite God's numerous privileges and corrective judgments. It contrasts the faithlessness of Israel's leaders with YHWH's unwavering righteousness and justice. The text emphasizes that human failure necessitates a future divine intervention where God will gather the nations for judgment. Believers are urged to remain faithful and not be discouraged by current wickedness, trusting in God's sovereign plan. The message concludes with an exhortation to wait patiently for the Lord's promised day of deliverance and blessing.
How great is the power at work in us? Ephesians 1:20–23 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the power that is at work in us is the power that is at work in Christ. The devotional expounds on Ephesians 1:20-23, emphasizing that the same mighty power which raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at God's right hand is actively at work in believers. This divine strength flows through the profound union between Christ and His Church, establishing believers as members of His body and heirs to His glory. The text contrasts Christ's supreme authority over all spiritual powers with the intimate, marriage relationship He shares with the Church. Understanding this reality dispels doubt and discouragement by revealing that believers share in Christ's victorious life through grace. The devotional concludes with a prayer for spiritual illumination to grasp the depth of this union and the sustaining power available to those who believe.
What may happen to faithful servants? Mark 6:14–29 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these sixteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that faithful servants of Christ may, in this life, find themselves brutally and treacherously murdered. This devotional examines the tragic execution of John the Baptist to illustrate how faithful and holy believers may suffer despite their righteousness. Pastor analyzes King Herod's sinful self-indulgence and rash oath as catalysts for this injustice, emphasizing that such events do not contradict God's sovereign rule. Believers are encouraged to humble themselves before divine providence rather than placing their hope in earthly success or personal plans. The message urges the hearer to maintain confidence in Christ, and remain steadfast in holiness, regardless of external circumstances. Ultimately, hope is placed in God's secret will and the certainty of salvation rather than immediate earthly vindication.
Who will be king? 1Chronicles 9:35–10:14 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that only Christ's kingdom is forever. The devotional contrasts the tragic end of King Saul with the enduring faithfulness of God's covenant promises. It highlights Saul's unfaithfulness, specifically his consultation of a medium and failure to inquire of the Lord, as the cause of his downfall and the transfer of the kingdom. The text emphasizes that merely human kingship is insufficient and points ultimately to Christ, the true King from David's line. Believers are called to reject self-reliance and instead place their hope and submission in Jesus alone. This trust shapes every aspect of life, ensuring a legacy defined by faith rather than unfaithfulness.
What should we do, when we do not feel like God cares? Job 7 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-one verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, even (and especially) when we feel like God does not care, we should pray to Him out of the conviction that He does!
How should we treat our enemies? Proverbs 26:21–22 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should love our enemies and do good to them. This devotional explores the biblical command to show active kindness to enemies by meeting their physical needs, such as hunger and thirst. It explains that this behavior requires genuine observation and empathy, reflecting Christ's love for sinners while leaving ultimate vengeance to God. The text clarifies that such acts do not excuse the enemy's sin but rather highlight its severity through continued rebellion against grace. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's righteous judgment and rely on His grace rather than personal merit when responding to hostility. The central message calls for a transformative attitude of love and service toward those who oppose the faithful.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 58—especially explaining how we can repent and believe only by the Spirit's grace. Q58. Can you repent and believe in Christ by your own power? No; I can do nothing good without the help of God's Holy Spirit. The lesson addresses the theological impossibility of human beings repenting or believing in Christ through their own power due to spiritual death. It emphasizes that these acts are gifts enabled solely by the Holy Spirit, Who provides the necessary strength and goodness found in Jesus. Believers are encouraged to acknowledge their inability and actively pray for divine assistance when they desire to repent or strengthen their faith. This approach shifts the focus from self-effort to reliance on God's grace, mirroring the plea to help unbelief. The central message affirms that all spiritual good originates from God rather than human capability.
Submission to the Lord, and love for the saints, means praying for triune glory, through triune grace, to give us to know triune blessedness.
Submission to the Lord, and love for the saints, means praying for triune glory, through triune grace, to give us to know triune blessedness.
The Lord's dealings with the nations set deliverance, destiny, and danger before us, to drive us to hide in Him.
The Lord's dealings with the nations set deliverance, destiny, and danger before us, to drive us to hide in Him.
Not only those that do actually profess faith in and obedience unto Christ, but also the infants of one or both believing parents are to be baptized.
God has given us a great work in worship, we should do it diligently resting in His work in our lives.
Dipping of the person into the water is not necessary; but baptism is rightly administered by pouring or sprinkling water upon the person.a
What is the ultimate conclusion of our salvation? Ephesians 1:13–14 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the ultimate conclusion of our salvation is our enjoying God forever in Christ, as God is glorified forever in Christ. The devotional centers on the Trinitarian foundation of salvation, that through faith in Christ, believers are sealed by the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of their eternal inheritance—ultimately the very presence of God the Father. It emphasizes that salvation is entirely God's work, received not by human effort, but by trusting in Christ alone, Who is the means by which the Father and Spirit are made known and experienced. The Holy Spirit's indwelling is not merely a future promise but a present reality, establishing intimate union and communion with Christ, adoption as children of God, and the assurance of divine fellowship. This union transforms the Christian life into a daily experience of resting in Christ, enjoying the Father's love, and walking in the Spirit's guidance and comfort. The entire redemptive journey culminates in the glorification of the triune God, Whose glory is displayed in the salvation and eternal inheritance of His people.
How is the church built? 1Chronicles 9:1–34 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the church is built especially through the public worship of God, employing the service of every member of the church. The devotional draws from 1 Chronicles 9:1–34 to emphasize the theological significance of restoration, order, and faithful service in God's renewed people after exile. It highlights the re-establishment of worship in Jerusalem through detailed genealogies of Judah, Benjamin, and other tribes, underscoring God's faithfulness in gathering His people despite their unfaithfulness. The focus shifts to the priestly and Levitical roles—particularly the gatekeepers, treasurers, and musicians—revealing that every function in worship, no matter how seemingly mundane, is divinely appointed and essential to maintaining holiness and order. Rooted in the authority of Moses, Samuel, and David, these roles reflect a sacred continuity and divine oversight, demonstrating that worship is not merely spiritual but deeply structured and communal. The passage calls believers today to recognize the dignity of all service in the church, especially those that support public worship, and to embrace their roles with faithfulness and gratitude as part of Christ's priesthood, where every task contributes to the people of God drawing near to Him in spirit and truth.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from "the Proverb of the day." In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the heart is the thing that must be kept, for the keeping of the life.
What is the true way to comfort? Job 6 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the true way to comfort understands the friend's circumstances, and answers from the foundation of God's grace to sinners. Job's anguish is not rooted in material loss but in the terrifying sense that God, the source of his hope, has turned against him, leaving him spiritually desolate and tormented by the perceived absence of divine favor. He laments that his friends' counsel, though delivered with theological certainty, offers no true comfort because it lacks the gospel of grace, reducing his suffering to a mere moral failure rather than addressing his deep spiritual crisis. Their empty promises are likened to dry riverbeds—offering the illusion of relief but delivering nothing, exposing their failure to show covenant love in his affliction. Job insists that if they truly know his sin, they should specify it, for without such evidence, their accusations are unjust and their advice spiritually barren. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the truth of God's faithfulness, affirming that even in despair, he has not denied the words of the Holy One, and that only the gospel—eternal, life-giving, and unbroken—can sustain the soul in suffering.
One of the chief ways that we conduct ourselves as good citizens is by speaking (and hearing) well, for the good of our neighbors and authorities.
One of the chief ways that we conduct ourselves as good citizens is by speaking (and hearing) well, for the good of our neighbors and authorities.
The outward element to be used in this sacrament is water, wherewith the party is to be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, by a minister of the gospel lawfully called thereunto. Dipping of the person into the water is not necessary; but baptism is rightly administered by pouring or sprinkling water upon the person.
What third tribe does the Chronicler especially honor? 1Chronicles 8 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these forty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, in addition to royal Judah, and priestly Levi, the Chronicler honored faithful Benjamin. The passage from 1 Chronicles 8 highlights the faithful continuity of the tribe of Benjamin, emphasizing their unwavering allegiance to Judah and the Davidic line, particularly through their settlement in Jerusalem. While Judah and Levi are also prominently featured for their roles in the royal and priestly offices, Benjamin's significance lies in their loyalty during the nation's division, symbolizing steadfast commitment to God's chosen center of worship. The chronicler uses geography—tracing movements from Geba and Gath to Jerusalem—to underscore this faithfulness, culminating in the statement that these leaders dwelt in Jerusalem, alongside their relatives, affirming their dedication to God's presence. This genealogical emphasis ultimately points to Christ, the eternal King and High Priest, while affirming that faithfulness in the midst of spiritual decline is honorable before God. The devotional calls believers to remain loyal to Christ and His ordained means of access, even when the broader church strays, honoring the quiet faithfulness of those who cling to Jesus alone.
How should we seek the Lord? Zephaniah 2:1–3 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should seek the Lord humbly, urgently, and dependently.
What is the danger in being half right? Job 4–5 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these forty-eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we may be half right, yet all wrong. The devotional explores Eliphaz's flawed response to Job's suffering, highlighting how even well-intentioned theological truths can lead to harmful conclusions when divorced from grace and empathy. Though Eliphaz correctly affirms God's sovereignty, justice, and the reality of human frailty, he misapplies these truths by assuming Job's suffering is due to hidden sin and moral failure, ignoring Job's genuine righteousness and the depth of his anguish. Pastor underscores the danger of spiritual pride, the limits of human understanding, and the necessity of humility in both suffering and comforting others. Ultimately, the message calls for trust in God's incomprehensible wisdom, rejecting simplistic explanations of suffering while embracing the grace that sustains the righteous even in affliction.
What does Jesus offer? Mark 5:21–43 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus offers to us to be as His own dear children.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 55—especially explaining how only those to whom God genuinely gives salvation will be saved. Q54. Who will be saved? Only those who repent of sin, believe in Christ, and lead holy lives. Salvation is a complete work of God that begins with repentance and faith in Christ, resulting in justification and adoption into His family, and culminates in full glorification and eternal fellowship with Him. The process of salvation is not partial but holistic, involving the ongoing production of holiness through divine discipline, as seen in Hebrews 12, where believers are called to pursue peace and holiness, for without holiness no one will see the Lord. Though believers are already children of God, as affirmed in 1 John 3, the full realization of their salvation—being made like Christ—remains future, and this hope compels them to purify themselves as Christ is pure. Thus, true salvation is evidenced by a life marked by repentance, faith, and holy living, not merely by religious activity or heritage. The final state of salvation is not merely forgiveness but transformation into Christ's likeness, which only those who walk in obedience and holiness will attain.
God's judgment comes especially upon those with more responsibility, but it comes upon everyone, individually.
God's judgment comes especially upon those with more responsibility, but it comes upon everyone, individually.
What must our speech be like? Proverbs 25:11–15 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our speech should be fitting, faithful, and forbearing. This devotional draws from Proverbs 25:11–15 to emphasize the transformative power of godly speech, highlighting three essential qualities: fitting words that are appropriate to context and relationship, faithful words marked by truth, sincerity, and integrity, and forbearing words that exercise patience and self-control. It underscores that effective communication is not merely about content but also about timing, humility, and the heart's posture—whether in giving rebuke, making promises, or addressing authority. Pastor calls for both the skillful use, and the humble reception, of speech, warning against empty boasts and manipulative language, while affirming that only through Christ's grace can the tongue be truly mastered. The tone is both instructive and pastoral, inviting believers to pursue wisdom, integrity, and self-discipline in their words as a reflection of their spiritual life.
What drives predestination? Ephesians 1:9–10 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's own, internal pleasure drives predestination. The central message of the devotional is that God's eternal purpose, revealed in the mystery of His will, is the glorification of Jesus Christ in all things—both in heaven and on earth. Rooted in divine sovereignty and eternal pleasure, this purpose was established not for human benefit alone, but for the exaltation of Christ as the unifying center of all creation. The sermon emphasizes that predestination and election are not about individual favoritism, but about Christ's supremacy, in Whom all things are gathered together and through whom every aspect of reality finds its ultimate meaning and fulfillment. This cosmic vision of redemption includes not only redeemed humanity, but also the entire created order, which will be liberated from decay and restored to glory. Pastor calls for his family to align their hearts with God's eternal design by glorifying Christ in all things, recognizing their own salvation as a special expression of His glory.
What is the day of YHWH like? Zephaniah 1:14–18 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the day of YHWH is coming fast, covenantally faithful, crushingly furious, and completely final. The passage from Zephaniah 1:14–18 presents the Day of Yahweh as a sudden, covenantally faithful, and utterly final judgment, marked by divine fury, cosmic terror, and complete destruction. Though the people of Judah, even amid Josiah's reforms, presumed the day was distant, the text warns that God's wrath comes swiftly and without mercy, rendering wealth, strength, and human pride powerless. The imagery of darkness, trumpets, and blind men echoes Sinai and other covenants, underscoring God's unwavering commitment to holiness, even when humanity fails. Yet this terrifying day is also transformed into a wonder through Christ, who bore the full fury of God's wrath on the cross, making salvation final and complete for all who believe. The passage thus serves as both a sobering warning of impending judgment and a profound declaration of the gospel's triumph, where Christ's sacrifice fulfills divine justice and secures eternal redemption.
How do we keep the first commandment? Deuteronomy 9:1–11:32 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eighty-three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we keep the first commandment by loving Him Who first loved us, through His Word by which He communicates Himself. The central message of the devotional is that true obedience to God is rooted not in human righteousness but in divine grace, as Israel's inheritance of the Promised Land was not due to their virtue but to God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Pastor emphasizes that Israel's repeated rebellions—especially at Horeb with the golden calf—reveal their persistent sinfulness, yet God, in His mercy, repeatedly intercedes, renews the covenant, and restores His people, demonstrating that His love precedes and enables their love in return. This divine love, most fully revealed in Christ's sacrifice, is the foundation for genuine love to Him: fearing God, walking in His ways, serving Him with all the heart and soul, and keeping His commandments out of gratitude and affection. The devotional calls believers to internalize God's Word as the operating system of life—meditating on it, speaking it, and living it out in daily routines, so that love for God becomes a holistic, transformative way of life. Ultimately, obedience is not a transactional effort to earn favor but a response to God's prior love, and covenant blessings are contingent upon faithful, covenantal love, which remains relevant today in the church's corporate, covenantal blessings.
What is Micah about? Micah 7:8–20 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Micah is about the praise of our incomparable, compassionate God. The devotional centers on the enduring hope and confidence of God's people amid suffering, drawing from Micah 7:8–20 to affirm that even in divine discipline, God remains faithful, merciful, and sovereign. It highlights the tension between judgment and grace, showing how God's righteous chastening is not abandonment but a means to restore His people, who are called to trust in His ultimate justice and compassion. The passage culminates in a profound doxology that exalts God as uniquely merciful—forgiving iniquity, delighting in steadfast love, and casting sins into the depths of the sea—thereby affirming His unchanging character and covenant faithfulness. This truth is both a comfort to the afflicted and a warning to the proud, as the nations will be humbled before the living God, while His remnant will be restored and exalted. The tone is deeply pastoral and worshipful, inviting believers to rest in God's goodness even during seasons of trial, knowing that His mercy is not earned but rooted in His very nature.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 21—especially explaining how God created us happy and holy, into which He brings us back when He redeems us. Q21. In what condition did God make Adam and Eve? He made them holy and happy. God created Adam and Eve in a state of holiness and happiness, reflecting His righteous and holy nature, as revealed in Scripture such as Ecclesiastes 7:29 and Ephesians 4:24, where humanity was made upright and in God's image. Their condition was one of divine communion, with God Himself as their ultimate joy, providing all that was good and necessary for their flourishing in the Garden. This original state of grace is restored in the new man through Christ, the Last Adam, who renews believers in true righteousness and holiness, reestablishing the happiness that comes from fellowship with God. Though the first Adam fell into sin and misery, the redemptive work of Christ restores what was lost, ensuring that all things work together for good for those called according to God's purpose. God's design for humanity was that they would be happy and holy.
How do we get joy? Ecclesiastes 5:18–20 looks forward to the call to worship in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that joy is a gift that God adds to His other gifts. The devotional draws from Ecclesiastes 5:18–20 to affirm that life's joys—eating, drinking, and labor—are not meaningless but truly good and meaningful when received as gifts from God. It emphasizes that even in a short, toilsome life shaped by the fall, God's goodness in ordinary experiences is a sacred blessing. The passage teaches us to receive wealth and labor, not as achievements of human effort, but as gifts from God. True joy arises from recognizing our good things as our portions from Him, and the joy itself is its own, separate gift. This frees believers from anxiety over life's brevity, as God sustains them with joy, preventing undue dwelling on mortality. Ultimately, the message calls for a life lived in continual gratitude, where every good thing is received in worship and delight, reflecting a heart transformed by grace and anchored in eternal hope.
Why should we watch against overzealousness in discipline and instruction? Proverbs 17:26–28 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that proper response to others demands that we be sparing with our words and cool in our spirit. The devotional centers on the wisdom of restraint, emphasizing that punishing the righteous or rebuking those who act with integrity is contrary to God's design, and that true understanding is marked by a calm spirit and sparing of words. Drawing from Proverbs 17:26–28, it highlights the importance of discernment in responding to authority and virtue, urging believers to be slow to speak and quick to listen, especially when recognizing God's work in others. The passage teaches that silence is a foundational step toward wisdom, as even a fool begins to grow in understanding by holding his peace and refraining from folly. The lesson calls for a Christlike character marked by self-control, humility, and patience, inviting the hearer to cultivate a cool, thoughtful spirit that reflects the fruit of the Spirit.
Unless they come into the last Adam, children of the first Adam do not escape hell by their religion, but earn it more.
Unless they come into the last Adam, children of the first Adam do not escape hell by their religion, but earn it more.
What does a Pharisee need? Matthew 23:13–33 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-one verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the children of the first Adam need a new nature from, union with, and to be conformed to the last Adam. The devotional lesson delivers a sobering indictment of religious hypocrisy, drawing from Jesus' scathing critique of the scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23:13–33. It exposes the anatomy of a condemned person: one who outwardly appears righteous yet is inwardly corrupt, prioritizing ritualistic obedience over justice, mercy, and faith, while exploiting the vulnerable and manipulating religious practices for self-gain. The passage emphasizes that true righteousness is not achieved through external conformity or impressive displays of piety, but through inner transformation—cleansing the heart by union with Christ, the last Adam, and receiving a new nature by the Holy Spirit. The warning is clear: even the most active, doctrinally sound, and outwardly righteous individuals can be headed toward hell if they remain in themselves and dead in sin. The ultimate call is to repentance, faith in Christ, and a radical inward renewal that reorients all religious life around relationship with God, not merely outward displays.
Why is disobeying God's Word called forgetting Him? Deuteronomy 8:11–20 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that disobeying God's Word is personal, proud, praising (wrongly), and pernicious (leading to destruction). Pastor's devotional centers on the solemn warning in Deuteronomy 8:11–20 to never forget YHWH God, especially in times of prosperity, as prosperity breeds pride and spiritual amnesia. It emphasizes that forgetting God is not merely a failure of memory but a personal, proud rejection of His identity as Creator, Redeemer, and Provider, who sustains His people through trials and blessings. The passage exposes the danger of attributing one's success to personal strength rather than recognizing that all wealth and provision come from God's faithful covenant-keeping character. This spiritual forgetfulness leads to idolatry, as people begin to worship the fruits of their labor instead of the Giver, placing themselves under divine judgment and the same fate as the nations destroyed for their unfaithfulness. The devotional calls for continual dependence on God's grace through Christ, not only for forgiveness of disobedience but for the transformative power to remain faithful, thankful, and ever-remembering of God's sovereign goodness.
How does the Bible conclude? Revelation 22:18–21 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Bible concludes with an emphasis upon Christ's gracious use of the Bible. The final words of the Bible, found in Revelation 22:18–21, underscore the divine authority, completeness, and finality of Scripture, warning against adding to or subtracting from its message while emphasizing that God's revelation is fully given in the written word. The passage reveals that the ultimate emphasis of God's self-revelation is not in mystical experiences or visions, but in the faithful hearing and obedience to the written Word, which is the means by which Christ draws near and applies His salvation. Jesus, who testifies to these things, declares His imminent return not as a distant future event, but as a present, ongoing work of grace through the proclamation and reception of Scripture. The response of the Church—'Even so, come, Lord Jesus'—is not a plea for personal deliverance alone, but a humble embrace of Christ's grace, which empowers believers to live in accordance with His Word. The closing benediction, 'The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all,' affirms that obedience is not earned, but sustained by divine generosity, strength in weakness, and the Spirit's work in the heart of the believer. Thus, the final message of Scripture is both a solemn warning and a gracious invitation to trust in Christ's finished work, received through the hearing of His Word.
What can be a hindrance to humility in worship? Ecclesiastes 5:8–17 looks forward to the call to worship in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that earthly position and earthly possessions threaten to hinder humility before God. Pastor's devotional draws from Ecclesiastes 5:8–17 to expose the humiliation of power and wealth, emphasizing that both kings and the rich are ultimately subject to God's sovereignty and the impermanence of earthly things. It highlights that oppression and injustice are not signs of divine abandonment but are subject to a divine order where even the highest authorities are accountable, and where true wisdom lies in recognizing one's creaturely dependence on God. The text warns that the pursuit of wealth brings not satisfaction but anxiety, sleeplessness, and spiritual emptiness, as material abundance increases responsibility and fosters fear, sorrow, and anger, while ultimately yielding nothing at death. Pastor urges us to humility before God—rooted in worship and reinforced by the reality that all come into the world naked and leave the same way—urging believers to live not for status or possessions, but for God's glory, which endures beyond death. This humility, cultivated in worship, becomes the antidote to pride and greed, transforming life from a pursuit of vanities into a life of lasting meaning and peace.
What is it like for the faithful during wicked times? Micah 7:1–7 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, during wicked times, the faithful despair of men but trust in the Lord. Pastor's devotional draws from Micah 7:1–7 to illuminate the profound suffering of the godly in a corrupt world, where faithfulness is met with loneliness, oppression, and familial strife, as even those in positions of authority and kinship betray trust. It emphasizes that the godly person, though isolated and surrounded by deceit, is not without hope, for the true response to such pain is not retreat but a steadfast turn to Yahweh in faith, patience, and confident hope. The passage reveals that divine salvation is not found in human loyalty but in the sovereign, faithful God who hears and delivers, even in the darkest seasons. The passage calls believers to embrace the cost of holiness, recognizing that suffering for righteousness is not a sign of failure but a mark of faithful witness, and that ultimate comfort lies in waiting upon the God who saves. This message is both a sobering reality check and a sustaining encouragement, rooted in the certainty of God's presence and promise.
To rescue us and our children from the misery of our folly, the Lord has brought His Word near us.
To rescue us and our children from the misery of our folly, the Lord has brought His Word near us.
What grieves a parent to death? Proverbs 17:21–25 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the unchecked folly of a child grieves a parent to death. Pastor's devotional lesson explores the profound connection between parental joy and a child's spiritual well-being, drawing heavily from Proverbs 17:21-25. It emphasizes the importance of parents providing biblical discipline and instruction, trusting God to remove folly from their children, while simultaneously urging children to seek wisdom and avoid behaviors that bring grief to their parents and ultimately, to themselves. The message underscores that a joyful heart, rooted in obedience to God's word, is a source of life and healing, contrasting sharply with the grief and death associated with foolishness and disobedience, ultimately calling for a commitment to both parental responsibility and a child's receptive heart.
Only God is exalted in Himself, and when He became a Man, He exalted Himself by humility, so we must do what Christ does and desire what He desires.
Only God is exalted in Himself, and when He became a Man, He exalted Himself by humility, so we must do what Christ does and desire what He desires.
What are believers to remember about God as they obey His commandments? Deuteronomy 8:1–10 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, as they obey God's commandments, believers are to remember His purposes toward them in those commandments, His preparation of them by bringing them through that obedience, and His praise from them which that obedience will produce. Pastor's devotional emphasizes the importance of remembering God's past actions and purposes as a foundation for obedience and blessing, drawing from Deuteronomy 8. It highlights that remembering God's provision in the wilderness, including both miraculous care and challenging trials, prepares individuals to trust Him and understand His fatherly discipline. Ultimately, the message encourages a life of grateful praise and faithful obedience, recognizing that true blessing stems not from personal achievement but from God's gracious promises and the steadfast pursuit of His will, mirroring the example of Jesus.
What is Jesus's message to us? Revelation 22:12–17 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus's message to us is to come to Him for life. Pastor's devotional emphasizes the imminent return of Jesus, portraying Him as the eternal, rewarding, redeeming, sanctifying, returning, and welcoming God. Drawing from Revelation 22, the message highlights the promise of reward for those who obey His commandments, entering into a holy union with Him and gaining access to eternal life. It underscores the importance of personal holiness, urging listeners to come to Chris for forgiveness and escape from practices and ideologies that oppose God, and to actively participate in welcoming others to Christ, ultimately joining the chorus of the Spirit and the Bride in anticipating His return and freely receiving the water of life.
Why is wickedness dangerous for God's people? Micah 6:9–16 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wickedness is dangerous for God's people because God is faithful to Himself and His covenant warnings. Pastor's devotional centers on God's unwavering holiness and faithfulness, particularly as demonstrated through Micah's warning to Judah regarding their persistent wickedness. It emphasizes that God's judgment, symbolized by the "rod," is not arbitrary but a consequence of covenant violations and a reflection of His righteous character, refusing to overlook deceit and injustice. The message underscores the heightened danger of sin for God's people, who are in a special covenant relationship with Him, and calls for repentance, faith, and a recognition of God's attributes to avoid the devastating consequences of covenant curses and ultimately, to experience peace by His grace.
If we are going to love truly, then we need to avoid having an incompetent heart, or a crooked heart, by avoiding the unteachable heart.
If we are going to love truly, then we need to avoid having an incompetent heart, or a crooked heart, by avoiding the unteachable heart.
How should we worship? Ecclesiastes 5:1–7 looks forward to the call to worship in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should worship with obedient actions, humble attitude, and life-application. Pastor's devotional emphasizes the importance of approaching worship with reverence and intentionality, highlighting that true worship involves not only the right actions and attitudes but also a commitment to follow through on vows and promises made to God. Drawing from Ecclesiastes, the message cautions against rash words and hasty commitments, asserting that genuine worship involves mindful engagement with God's Word, a reserved and receptive heart, and a willingness to apply spiritual truths to daily life, ultimately fearing God and recognizing that His works endure while fleeting pursuits prove vain.
Why isn't love enough? Proverbs 17:16–20 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that love, without wisdom, isn't even loving. Pastor's devotional explores the critical importance of a teachable heart, contrasting it with the folly of those who possess an unteachable, incompetent, and crooked heart. Drawing from Proverbs 17, it argues that true love and genuine help stem from a heart shaped by wisdom and fear of the Lord, rather than self-proclaimed understanding or prideful attempts to elevate oneself. The message cautions against defining love through personal desires or offering assistance that enables sin, emphasizing that a righteous character, humility, and adherence to God's law are essential for fostering genuine love and avoiding strife and destruction.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 19—especially explaining how we have eternal souls because of our relation to the first Adam, and the state of those souls is determined by our relation to the last Adam. Q19. Have you a soul as well as a body? Yes; I have a soul that can never die. The catechism lesson emphasizes the profound significance of the human soul, asserting its eternal and indestructible nature, and connects it directly to the theological concept of federal representation. Drawing from the creation narrative of Adam, it explains that humanity shares a unified relationship with Adam, inheriting his status and consequences through covenantal ties. This understanding is then contrasted with the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the 'last Adam,' who offers a path to conformity with his resurrected body and holy soul. Ultimately, the message underscores the critical choice facing every individual: to remain in the first Adam, facing eternal suffering, or to embrace the grace of the last Adam, in Whom there is everlasting favor and blessing from God.
Confidence from remembering YHWH combats the fear that is the enemy of faith and obedience
Confidence from remembering YHWH combats the fear that is the enemy of faith and obedience.
What is the Lord Jesus doing right now? Revelation 22:6–11 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord Jesus is doing everything necessary for His soon return, and urging us to respond to His Bible in repentance and faith. Pastor's devotional emphasizes the urgency of engaging with Scripture as a direct response to the imminent return of Jesus, highlighting that His "coming quickly" is not a future event but already in process by His sovereign rule. It stresses the importance of actively hearing, reading, and applying God's Word, rather than seeking novel revelations or relying on personal feelings, as the written Word is Jesus's revelation to us. The message underscores the finality of one's spiritual condition at the time of Christ's return, urging listeners to embrace Christ for righteousness and holiness now, lest they remain unrighteous and filthy, under wrath, forever.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 18—especially explaining how God has created man with an eternal soul. Q18. What did God give Adam and Eve besides bodies? He gave them souls that could never die. The lesson explores the profound significance of the human soul, asserting that it is a unique creation of God, distinct from the spirit of beasts and possessing eternal life. Drawing from Genesis, 1 Corinthians, and Ecclesiastes, it argues that God's act of breathing into Adam's nostrils signifies the infusion of an immortal soul, guaranteeing both resurrection for the righteous, conformed to Christ, and a terrifying judgment for the unrepentant. Ultimately, the lesson emphasizes that the existence of this eternal soul underscores the paramount importance of caring for one's soul as the most vital responsibility entrusted by God, rooted in His covenantal purposes and the promise of redemption.
How should we repay God for all His goodness? Micah 6:1–8 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that believers should repay God for His goodness in the way that He says to in His Word. Pastor's devotional explores God's indictment of Israel, highlighting the contrast between divine grace and the people's unfaithfulness, ultimately revealing that true worship isn't what man comes up with, but what God has shown. Drawing parallels to Christ's redemptive work, the message emphasizes that God desires the people themselves, urging listeners to recognize God's goodness and respond with imaging Him, loving Him, and fellowship with Him.
God requires obedience that is covenantal, commitment, complete, comprehensive, and consequential.
God requires obedience that is covenantal, commitment, complete, comprehensive, and consequential.
Why is covenant faithfulness necessary? Deuteronomy 7:12–16 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that covenant faithfulness is necessary for covenant blessing. Pastor's devotional explores the intertwined concepts of unconditional election and covenant faithfulness, drawing from Deuteronomy 7 to illuminate God's character as both a gracious giver of blessings and a just sustainer of covenant relationships. It emphasizes that while God's love and promises are freely given, obedience is not meritorious but a necessary response to His grace, enabling the enjoyment of His goodness and preventing spiritual corruption. The sevenfold blessing detailed in the passage represents complete divine favor, highlighting that true blessing lies not merely in material prosperity but in enjoying the goodness of God Himself, ultimately fulfilled through the faithful covenant head, Jesus Christ.
What is glory? Revelation 22:1–5 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that glory is God's people's experience of Him. Pastor's devotional lesson explores the vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21-5, presenting it not as a physical city, but as a representation of the glorified church. Drawing parallels to the Garden of Eden and the tabernacle, it emphasizes the central role of God's presence and the continual flow of the Holy Spirit from the Father and the Son, offering life, healing, and fellowship. The ultimate reality is an experience of God's glory, marked by eternal reign and the absence of darkness, where believers will enjoy a perfected fellowship with Him, shaping their experience of the new heavens and the new earth and fulfilling God's ultimate design for redemption.
How is love of money so evil? Ecclesiastes 4:7–12 looks forward to the call to worship in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that love of money rejects both the fellowship of God and the fellowship of man. The family devotional lesson explores the vanity and misfortune of pursuing labor solely for personal gain, emphasizing the necessity of fellowship with God and with others for a meaningful life. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 4, it argues that true purpose and strength are found not in isolated striving but in relationships—both human and divine—where mutual support and God's presence provide comfort, resilience, and lasting significance. Ultimately, the message underscores that God's presence is the essential third strand that binds human connections, transforming individual efforts into a source of shared blessing and enduring purpose.
What does the Messiah do for His people? Micah 5:5–15 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Messiah brings true peace to His remnant from all the nations. The devotional explores the nature of peace and security under the reign of King Jesus, moving beyond reliance on earthly defenses like chariots and strongholds. It emphasizes that the Messiah delivers His people from false security, false knowledge (including sorcery and false teaching), and false worship, ultimately leading them to true understanding and pure worship. The church, empowered by Christ, becomes a source of refreshing grace for the redeemed like dew and showers, while simultaneously acting as a formidable force against the unrepentant, like a lion among sheep, trusting in the ultimate execution of divine vengeance on those who reject God's message. Thus, Christ ushers in a new era of glory for the nations gathered into His kingdom.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 17—especially explaining how God humbles us, honors us, and gives us hope by the stuff of which He made us. Q17. Of what were our first parents made? God made the body of Adam out of the ground, and formed Eve from the body of Adam. The lesson explores the theological significance of humanity's creation, contrasting our earthly origins – formed from the ground like animals – with the unique gift of a spirit breathed into Adam, distinguishing us from the beasts and connecting us to God. It emphasizes the inherent dignity and eventual destiny of humanity, particularly through Christ's resurrection, where our bodies will be conformed to his glorified form, experiencing a transformation from earthly, decaying vessels to spiritual, immortal bodies devoted to God in the new heavens and new earth, ultimately offering hope and a call to live in anticipation of this glorious future.
We must choose between the world that hates God and will get us destroyed, and the God Who has chosen His people in love.
Every part of Scripture must be understood in the context of the message of the whole, centering upon Christ.
We must choose between the world that hates God and will get us destroyed, and the God Who has chosen His people in love.
Every part of Scripture must be understood in the context of the message of the whole, centering upon Christ.
Why are the Sadducees deceived? Matthew 22:23–33 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Sadducees are deceived because of their own ignorance of God and His Word. The devotional lesson addresses the Sadducees' challenge regarding the resurrection, using their hypothetical scenario of seven brothers and one wife to highlight their flawed understanding of Scripture and God's power. It argues that their meticulous focus on minor details of the law obscures the grand narrative of God as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—a living God who redeems and covenants with humanity. Pastor emphasizes that true theological understanding requires recognizing the entirety of Scripture, particularly the overarching themes of God's election, covenant, and redemption, ultimately calling for a marveling at Christ as Himself the God-Man Who has revealed Himself and His gospel in the Bible.
Why should God's people choose Him? Deuteronomy 7:1–11 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's people choose Him, because He has chosen them in love. The devotional lesson emphasizes the critical importance of unwavering devotion to God, warning against any compromise or covenant with the world, particularly those who oppose Him. Drawing from Deuteronomy 7, it highlights that Israel's election is not based on merit but on God's sovereign love and faithfulness to His promises, demanding complete eradication of false religions and a rejection of worldly entanglements that could lead to idolatry. Ultimately, the message underscores that true safety and blessing lie not in covenant membership alone, but in a grace-given, faithful love and obedience to God, recognizing His faithfulness and the consequences of rejecting Him.
What is the glory of the church? Revelation 21:9–27 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nineteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the glory of the church is her glorious God. The devotional presents the vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:9–27 reveals the glorified Church as the perfected bride of Christ, a divine city not of earthly dimensions but of eternal, spiritual reality, symbolizing the complete and glorious union of God's redeemed people. Rooted in God's eternal plan and built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, this city reflects the radiant glory of God and the Lamb, whose presence eliminates the need for sun or moon, as divine light now illuminates all. The imagery of precious stones, pure gold, and unshuttered gates signifies a community refined by divine grace—where only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life enter, and all that defiles, abominates, or lies is excluded. This vision calls believers to live with holy urgency, rejecting anything incompatible with God's holiness, while trusting in the certainty that every true glory of every nation will be gathered and transformed into eternal splendor. The ultimate hope is not a physical place, but the perfect, incorruptible fellowship of God's elect, fully sanctified and reflecting His infinite glory.
A wisely lived life is glorious, and gives instruction and hope for future generations of glory.
A wisely lived life is glorious, and gives instruction and hope for future generations of glory.
What else makes godless life vain? Ecclesiastes 4:4–6 looks forward to the call to worship in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that fallen labor makes godless life vain. The devotional lesson explores the futility of labor and achievement apart from a relationship with God, drawing from Ecclesiastes 4 and Psalm 73. It highlights how striving and skillful work often lead to envy and ultimately prove unsatisfying, while neglecting work results in a destructive laziness. The central message emphasizes that true contentment and peace—a "handful with quietness"—are found not in worldly pursuits but in knowing and worshipping God, allowing His grace to shape our work, and provide lasting fulfillment rather than grasping for fleeting, ultimately unattainable goals.
We must respond rightly to who our authorities are, by submitting to them; to who you are, by living for the glory and enjoyment of God, and to Who Jesus is, by worshiping Him and living by His Word.
We must respond rightly to who our authorities are, by submitting to them; to who you are, by living for the glory and enjoyment of God, and to Who Jesus is, by worshiping Him and living by His Word.
Whose glory and authority should we honor? Matthew 22:15–22 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we honor all glory and authority, and therefore especially Christ's glory and authority as God Himself. The devotional explores the Pharisees' attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar, revealing a deeper theological challenge regarding allegiance and identity. Jesus, recognizing their hypocrisy, redirects the inquiry, asserting that while earthly authorities like Caesar deserve what is due them, ultimate devotion belongs to God, Who communicates Himself supremely in Jesus Christ. The message transcends a simple political answer, urging listeners to consider their own creation in God's image, to heed God's inscription through Scripture, and ultimately to worship and obey Jesus as the definitive revelation of God Himself.
How are we to teach our children God's law? Deuteronomy 6:20–25 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should teach our children the law in the context of the gospel. The devotional emphasizes the importance of Christian families understanding and conveying God's law within the framework of the gospel. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6:20-25, it argues that answering children's questions about commandments should begin with acknowledging God's redemption, power, and faithfulness to His promises. Obedience to God's law isn't presented as a means of earning favor, but as a vital component of a covenant relationship, a means by which God faithfully brings about His promises and preserves life, ultimately fostering a vibrant fellowship between believers and their Creator.
What will glory be like? Revelation 21:1–8 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that glory will be free, full, and forever fellowship with God. This devotional explores the promise of a restored creation and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive work in Christ, drawing heavily from Revelation 21. It emphasizes that Jesus's completed work, signified by the phrase "it is done," anticipates a future where God dwells with His people in a new heaven and a new earth, a glorious city descending from heaven. The message underscores the individual and profound relationship believers will have with God as son, contrasting this with the stark reality of eternal judgment for those who reject Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for believers to embrace the transformative power of grace, to overcome sin, and to eagerly anticipate the day when all things are made new and the promise of eternal life is fully realized.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 15—especially explaining how God used men to write His exact words. Q15. Who wrote the Bible? Holy men who were taught by the Holy Spirit. The lesson explores the origin of the Bible, asserting that it is not authored by human will but is a product of divine inspiration. Drawing on passages from 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and 2 Timothy, it emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding holy men as they recorded scripture, highlighting that every word is breathed out by God. The message underscores the authority and immutability of scripture, affirming that even the smallest details are part of God's intended message and are therefore of utmost importance.
Prosperity brings with it the danger of forgetting the glorious God Who has been so good to us.
What do the powerful do? Ecclesiastes 4:1–3 looks forward to the call to worship in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, under the sun, the powerful oppress. The devotional grapples with the painful reality of oppression and injustice observed under the sun, acknowledging the seemingly unanswered suffering of the oppressed and the power wielded by their oppressors. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 4 and Psalm 73, it emphasizes that true comfort and resolution to this difficulty are found not in earthly circumstances, but in a relationship with God through worship. The speaker ultimately offers hope, asserting that while oppression is a grievous evil, it is not the final word because God is a comforter and redeemer, offering a solution that transcends the limitations of this world and urging listeners to hate oppression without despairing, knowing that God reigns and will ultimately destroy wickedness.
God uses preaching to summon and suit chosen sinners for the wedding of His Son, to be not only guests, but members of His bride.
God uses preaching to summon and suit chosen sinners for the wedding of His Son, to be not only guests, but members of His bride.
Prosperity brings with it the danger of forgetting the glorious God Who has been so good to us.
What danger does prosperity pose? Deuteronomy 6:10–19 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that prosperity poses the danger of being forgetful of God. This family worship devotional warns against the danger of forgetting God, particularly when experiencing comfort, security, and prosperity, urging intentional gratitude and habitual worship as safeguards. Remembering God involves fearing Him, serving Him, swearing oaths in His name, diligently keeping His commandments and testimonies, and ultimately, doing what is right and good in His sight. The devotional emphasizes that while God promises blessings—possessing the land, casting out enemies—these are received through obedience to His Word, not as a means of earning them, and serves as a reminder of God's zeal for His own glory and love.
What will happen in the last day? Revelation 20:11–15 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that each one of us will be resurrected in the last day to stand before Christ and be judged according to whether the book of our own life is cross-referenced with His Book of Life. This family worship devotional explores the sobering reality of final judgment, drawing from Revelation 20 and connecting it to Ecclesiastes' reflection on the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits. It emphasizes that Christ sits on the throne, and individuals will stand before Him naked and exposed, their lives represented as books of deeds. The central message underscores the comfort for believers, who are interceded for by Christ and whose names are written in the Book of Life, contrasted with the dreadful fate of the unbeliever facing eternal condemnation. Ultimately, the sermon calls for immediate faith in Christ and a life dedicated to deeds done in union with Him, looking forward to a future of blessing and glory rather than eternal fire.
The one who finds YHWH's speech sweet will have the privilege of sweetening the lives of others.
What hope is there for those in intense or justly deserved pain? Micah 4:9–10 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God is pleased to redeem sinners right from the midst of the pain that they deserve. This devotional explores the prophetic message of Micah 4, highlighting Israel's desperate cries amidst impending judgment and exile to Babylon. It challenges the nation's reliance on earthly kings and self-serving prophets, exposing the futility of seeking deliverance through human power and manipulated counsel. Ultimately, the passage reveals that God's plan, even through affliction and painful circumstances, is to redeem His elect remnant, demonstrating His grace and shattering false dependencies, offering a parallel application for individual believers to find redemption through trusting solely in Him.
How should we make application of the reality of our death? Ecclesiastes 3:16–22 looks forward to the call to worship in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should live as those who will be judged by God, and as those who receive our life as a portion from God. This family worship devotional grapples with the apparent injustices of the world, particularly the presence of wickedness in positions of authority, and explores the comfort found in God's ultimate judgment and sovereignty. Drawing from Ecclesiastes and Psalm 11, it asserts that while earthly suffering and death may seem to level humanity with animals, they ultimately serve to humble individuals and remind them of their dependence on God. The central message emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in one's work as a divinely appointed portion, finding joy not in the lasting impact of actions but in the knowledge of God's purpose and the promise of eternal union with Him, ultimately offering solace and direction in a world marked by suffering and impermanence.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 14—especially explaining how we respond with love to God's communication of Himself, and with obedience to God's communication of His will. Q14. Where do you learn how to love and obey God? In the Bible alone. The lesson emphasizes that the primary source for learning to love and obey God is the Bible alone. It explores how God reveals Himself through His Word, not merely as a collection of mental concepts but as a communication of His very being, drawing a connection between the divine name, the teachings of Scripture, and ultimately, the person of Jesus Christ as the definitive Word of God. The sermon highlights that through this verbal communication of truth, instruction, and promises, God communicates both Himself and His will, fostering love and obedience in those who receive and respond to His message.
God has given Himself fully to us, especially in His Word (His Son, by His Spirit!), by which He makes us to give ourselves fully to Him.
God has given Himself fully to us, especially in His Word (His Son, by His Spirit!), by which He makes us to give ourselves fully to Him.
What are the prerequisites for godly speech? Proverbs 16:16–19 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom, uprightness, and humility are the prerequisites for godly speech. The devotional emphasizes that godly, beneficial speech stems from a heart cultivated through wisdom, uprightness, and humility, rather than material wealth or association with the proud. Drawing from Proverbs 16, the message clarifies that true wisdom and understanding, gained through fellowship with God, are far more valuable than gold or silver, while departing from evil requires a steadfast commitment to righteousness and a humble spirit content in God's provision. Ultimately, the speaker underscores that conforming to the example of Christ—who embodies wisdom, righteousness, and humility—is the path to cultivating a heart that overflows with good and godly speech.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 13—especially explaining how God isn't just able to, but actually does, do all His holy will. Q13. Can God do all things? Yes; God can do all His holy will. This lesson affirms God's absolute sovereignty, emphasizing that He not only can do all things but actively does all His holy will, drawing heavily from Ephesians 1:11. It cautions against questioning God's immutability or posing illogical paradoxes that undermine His divine nature, highlighting the inherent impossibility of God diminishing His own being. The message underscores God's unchanging power and eternal character, particularly in relation to the incarnation of Jesus Christ, and ultimately encourages a confident affirmation of God's complete control and purposeful action in all things.
God reveals His greatness not only in His power, but especially in His grace, and most so in Christ.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 120—especially explaining how we should always be praying for our sanctification. Q120. What is the sixth petition? And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For what does the Lord institute baptism? Matthew 28:16–20 prepares us for the sermon in the morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord institutes baptism as a sign of Christ's authority and power in His gathering church.
What do we learn from the account of Sarai's name change? Genesis 17:15–27 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Sarai's name change points us to the unique significance of Christ, which is the only hope for anyone to walk before God—the very hope to which the covenant sign points us.
What do believers who have been stumbling along in their own strength need? Genesis 17:1–8 looks forward to the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that believers need to be turned away from themselves to the Lord Who covenants them to Himself—and Himself to them.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 119—especially explaining how asking to be forgiven of our debts, and to forgive our debtors, is a comprehensive request against our sin and its effects. Q119. What do we pray for in the fifth petition? That God would pardon our sins for Christ's sake, and enable us to forgive those who have injured us.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 58—especially explaining how we keep God's day as holy, which also means not treating common days as holy. Q58. What is required in the fourth commandment? The fourth commandment requireth the keeping holy to God such set times as He hath appointed in His Word; expressly one whole day in seven, to be a holy sabbath to Himself.
Why is hearing so important? Proverbs 5:7–14 looks forward to the sermon in this week's midweek meeting. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the humility to hear can spare us the horror of wasting our life in contradiction to God's design and Word.
Deacons are prescribed by Christ to support the ministry of the Word, by which He works powerfully in His church
The way that Christ commands His church to operate is a foundational doctrine, together with basic doctrines of God and salvation.
What does God want, and use, deacons to do? Acts 5:42–6:7 helps us prepare to hear 6:1–7 proclaimed in the morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God wants deacons to facilitate the worship, discipleship, and evangelism of the church, and He blesses their faithful service unto the spread of the gospel.
How great is the power that is at work in believers? Acts 5:17–41 helps us prepare to hear 6:1–7 proclaimed in the morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God works by His own almighty power in the church.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 118—especially explaining how we must ask God, not just for our littlest needs, but even and especially for our greatest needs: deliverance from sin's guilt, power, and presence. Q118. What is the fifth petition? And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
When trials and storms come your way, where is your focus? Only Christ can help you weather all storms!
How does grace prepare the "faith" part of our salvation? Ephesians 2:1–7 helps us prepare to hear 2:1–5 proclaimed in the morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that there is a resurrection that must come before faith.
What should believers pray to grow in? Ephesians 1:15–19 helps us prepare to hear 2:1–5 proclaimed in the morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that one thing that believers should pray that they would grow in is their theological understanding of God and His gospel.
What is God doing? Ephesians 1:3–14 helps us prepare to hear 2:1–5 proclaimed in the morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God does all things, to bring us into our inheritance with Christ, unto the praise of His glorious grace.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 117—especially explaining how the Hallowed King attends to our smallest (and greatest) needs, and teaches us to ask Him for them. Q117. What do we pray for in the fourth petition? That God would give us all things needful for our bodies and souls.
What does Ephesians teach? Ephesians 1:1–2 helps us prepare to hear 2:1–5 proclaimed in the morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Ephesians, the gospel, the Bible, and the whole of reality, are all about Jesus.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 56—especially explaining how the ultimate way of taking God's Name lightly is to reject the Son in Whom He has fully declared Himself, and is an unforgivable sin; so, God places a special emphasis upon punishing all blasphemies. Q56. What is the reason annexed to the third commandment? The reason annexed to the third commandment is that however the breakers of this commandment may escape punishment from men, yet the Lord our God will not suffer them to escape his righteous judgment.
We continue studying through the Scriptural doctrine that our congregation confesses. This week, we continued Westminster Confession chapter 20—considering Article 2's biblical doctrine of God alone being Lord of the conscience.
The God of redeeming grace offers Himself to us, while warning against those sins that are a rejection of Him.
The necessary evidence of a changed heart is a mouth that is full of good things about Jesus.
What is so significant about our words? Matthew 12:33–37 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our words show what's in our heart, which shows what we truly are.
What are we to learn from Israel's second census? Numbers 26 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these sixty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord highlights His sovereign grace, while warning us against sin, and presenting Himself as our inheritance.
One way that wisdom saves us from the path to death and hell is by alerting us to the deceptive sweetness and comfort of romance with someone other than your wife.
How are we supposed to apply this letter? Jude v20–23 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we apply the book of Jude by pursuing growth first for ourselves, and then for others.
How should we respond to difficult or shocking providence? Amos 4 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God gives difficult and shocking providence as an opportunity for repentance.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 55—especially explaining how we must neither abuse nor treat as common any of God's communication to us of Himself. Q55. What is forbidden in the third commandment? The third commandment forbiddeth all profaning or abusing of anything whereby God maketh Himself known.
What's the harm in a little romance? Proverbs 5:1–6 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that uncovenanted romance is a path to death.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 116—especially explaining how going from immense petitions about God to tiny petitions about ourselves teaches us that we are to pray to God about everything, big and small. Q116. What is the fourth petition? That men on earth may serve God as the angels do in heaven.
What does slander do? Psalm 120 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that slander hurts brethren and provokes God's wrath.
As the Holy Spirit presents Christ to you in the gospel, harden not your heart, but come to Him and find the rest of forgiveness for your soul.
We continue studying through the Scriptural doctrine that our congregation confesses. This week, we continue Westminster Confession chapter 20—Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience. We continue Article 1, considering UNTO what Christ has liberated believers
God's grace isn't for those who are good, but for those whom He must save from wrath-deserving sin.
What is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit? Matthew 12:22–32 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is the rejection of His testimony to Who Christ is.
What provokes and stops God's wrath? Numbers 25 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eighteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that sin provokes God's wrath, but Christ turns it away.
What sorts of people should we be watching against in the church? Jude v12–19 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should not share our life with those who give evidence of not having the Spirit.
How should we respond to calamity? Amos 3 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must respond to the Lord's "roaring" in calamity by evaluating and acting according to His Word.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 54—especially explaining how we are to conduct ourselves in the holy fear of God in His worship, and in our lives. Q54. What is required in the third commandment? The third commandment requireth the holy and reverent use of God's names, titles, attributes, ordinances, word and works.
What does trouble provide an opportunity for? Psalm 119:169–176 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that trouble provides, among other things, an opportunity to praise the Word and faithfulness of the God Who saves us out of it.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 115—especially explaining how submission to God's will includes submission both to His providence and to His commandments. Q115. What do we pray for in the third petition? That men on earth may serve God as the angels do in heaven.
You are either with Christ, or against Him; this is the choice between eternal life and eternal death.
Christ, the almighty Victor, distinguishes Himself by gentleness and humility that gives life and joy to His people.
We continue studying through the Scriptural doctrine that our congregation confesses. This week, we come to Westminster Confession chapter 20—Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience. We began Article 1, considering from what Christ has liberated believers.
What is the way to life? Proverbs 4:10–27 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these eighteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the way to blessedness is directed and guarded by the Word of God.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from "the Proverb of the day." In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all sin has pride at its root and self-destruction as its fruit.
What is Jesus like, as He victoriously brings forth His kingdom in almighty strength? Matthew 12:9–21 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our mighty, victorious Lord is gentle and humble.
How can God's enemies survive? Numbers 22:36–24:25 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these sixty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the only way to survive death and the last day is through faith in Christ.
What does dreamer-religion cause? Jude v8–11 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that religion that is not bounded by Scripture results in men running off into their own destruction.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from "the Proverb of the day." In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom's loud, clear call means that we should be thankful to God for it, and humbled that we don't heed it more.
What nations are accountable to God for what they do with His law? Amos 1:3–2:16 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all nations are accountable to God for what they do with His law.
How should we respond to God's Word? Psalm 119:161–168 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our affections toward God ought to be expressed toward His Word by which He communicates Himself to us.
Where does being an everlasting king begin? Proverbs 4:1–9 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that becoming everlasting royalty begins with taking God's Word to heart, even as a newborn.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 53—especially explaining how our reverence in worship and life is so important that it is the third commandment. Q53. Which is the third commandment? The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His Name in vain.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 114—especially explaining how the third petition concludes the first half of the Lord's Prayer. Q114. What is the third petition? Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Our most basic faculties depend upon the Lord, Who sees and judges our hearts in all that we do.
The Sabbath has always been about finding rest with Jesus and in Jesus, because Jesus is YHWH, Who draws us near to Himself and conforms us to Himself.
The WCF chapter on the law concludes with the fact that the law and the gospel agree with one another about how the promise is obtained and what it looks like in the life of a believer.
What is the point of the Sabbath? Matthew 12:1–8 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus, and resting in Him, is the point of the Sabbath.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from "the Proverb of the day." In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must live according to God's view not ours, by God's righteousness not ours, and by God's wisdom not ours.
What do we learn from a talking donkey? Numbers 22:13–40 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord opens the mouth, opens the eyes, and sees the heart.
How does God remind us of the urgency of obeying Jesus as our Lord-- Jude v5-7 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those who do not obey Jesus as their Lord will suffer under His wrath forever.
How does God address His people's sin-- Amos 1-1-2 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God Himself addresses His people with a powerful, redeeming Word, even through unimpressive men.
With what arguments can believers plead to be revived-- Psalm 119-153-160 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that believers can plead with God to be revived upon the basis of the gracious work that He has begun in them, and upon the basis of the abundance of His perfections which can never change.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 52-especially explaining how the God presents worshiping Him only in His way as the litmus test for genuinely loving Him. --Q52. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment-- The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God's sovereignty over us, His propriety in us, and the zeal He hath to His own worship.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 113-especially explaining how the kingdom is coming through the gospel and its effects. --Q113. What do we pray for in the second petition-- That the gospel may be preached in all the world, and believed and obeyed by us and all men.
How can God's enemies prevail against His people-- Numbers 22-1-12 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's enemies cannot prevail against His people.
What could be more important than enriching one another in our common salvation-- Jude v1-4 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must contend earnestly for faith in a Jesus Who is our Master, both as our God and as our King.
How do all things end-- Isaiah 66-18-24 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all things end with redeemed believers from all nations enjoying the glory of God in Christ, while remembering that what they actually deserved is an everlasting Hell.
Jesus is God from all eternity, Who became man in order to bring us into His own knowledge of, and delight in, God Himself.
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we learned, from WCF 19.5, about how the gospel makes us more obligated to the moral law, not less
Christ gives us to hold onto Him together by holding onto His truth together, especially in the public worship that strengthens our faith and stirs up our love.
After centuries of drifting from drawing near to God in a way that actually honors God, the Reformed churches must return to coming to God genuinely through Christ Himself in those things which He has not only commanded but actually leads from glory.
Fake Christianity is plagued by harboring an attitude of treating religion as a burden and by playing to an audience of man's esteem. A God-given solution for both of these is a well-kept Sabbath, the Lord's Day.
A recovery of godly husbandhood and fatherhood is essential to that repentant Christian life by which believers are light in the midst of the darkness.
Families are God's original plan for humanity, for the church, and for society. He calls them to family worship, morning and evening, and to have His Word as their primary fellowship and identity.
How do we combat the nearness of the wicked-- Psalm 119-145-152 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we are to seek the nearness of the Lord by prayer and the ministry of the Word.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 51-especially explaining how the second commandment forbids coming up with our ways of thinking about God, drawing near to Him, or gaining spiritual knowledge or power. --Q51. What is forbidden in the second commandment-- The second commandment forbiddeth the worshiping of God by images, or any other way not appointed in His Word.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 112-especially explaining how God has been pleased to hallow His Name by bringing His kingdom. --Q112. What is the second petition-- -Thy kingdom come.-
How can we be happy-- Proverbs 3-13-18 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that happiness is in God Himself, through His Word.
What is the story of the conquest-- Numbers 21-21-35 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the big story of the conquest of the land is the character of God.
How should believers relate toward one another-- 3John v13-14 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that believers should love to be face to face and delight in one another.
How can we have joy forever-- Psalm 119-137-144 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that eternal joy comes from the righteous Lord and His communication of Himself by His Word.
What is the last day like-- Isaiah 66-14-17 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the last day is joy for those who have loved the Lord and anguish for those hateful enemies who worshiped their own way.
Jesus gives to us to thank God as He does- for His character and His pleasure in judging, but especially in saving.
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we learned, from WCF 19.4, about how the civil law no longer obligates any nation, but is rich with applications of God's moral law that applies to all nations, over all of which Christ Himself is now King.
Why does God address believers as children-- Proverbs 3-1-12 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God addresses believers as His children, because that is what He is making them, in Christ.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 50-especially explaining how treating God as God means drawing near to Him only in the way that He says to. --Q50. What is required in the second commandment-- The second commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in His Word.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 111-especially explaining how hallowing God's Name means receiving His communication of Himself to us and loving and honoring Him. --Q111. What do we pray for in the first petition-- That God's Name may be honored by us and all men.
How should we respond to ordinary faithfulness in believers' lives-- Numbers 21-10-20 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that ordinary faithfulness is produced by extraordinary grace, for which we must sing God's praise.
Apply your heart to wisdom, and come into the path and pleasure that God will use to deliver you from death
What do believers need if they are to be godly-- 3John v9-12 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that believers need awareness of who is a spiritual or theological threat, and of who is properly qualified and ordained, as part of God's means in making them godly.
How important is the church-- Isaiah 66-5-13 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the church is God's beloved, to which and through which He gives life, joy, and comfort.
Because there is nothing good in ourselves, we must be born again, and God has raised up His Son so that those dying of their own wickedness may turn away from themselves, to look to Him instead, and live-
Playing at -Christianity- is childish, arrogant, and wicked unbelief. But grace can make us humble, submissive children.
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we learned, from WCF 19.2-3, about how the moral law has a special place in the covenant of grace, and therefore the Christian life- but that the ceremonial law was given for other prophethood, priesthood, and kingship, and has been abrogated under Christ.
What does a life of worship look like-- Psalm 119-129-136 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a life of worship sees the truth about God, and about ourselves, forming longing for Him by His Word.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 49-especially explaining how the first part of having God as our God is thinking about Him and worshiping Him only in the ways that He has given us to do so.- -Q49. Which is the second commandment-- The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth- thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them- for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me- and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My commandments.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 110-especially explaining how the hallowing of God's Name is the end unto which all of the other petitions aim. --Q110. What is the first petition-- Hallowed be Thy Name.
How does wisdom save-- Proverbs 2-10-22 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom brings us into the perfect path and perfect pleasure- God Himself as our purpose and blessedness.
What should we say about an unbelieving generation-- Matthew 11-16-24 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those who hear the gospel but don't repent are childishly arrogant and wickedly resistant.
How can entrenched sinners be forgiven and saved-- Numbers 21-4-9 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God shows great grace to great sinners by giving them to look to His Son for salvation.
Why should we help ministers and missionaries-- 3John v5-8 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that funding the work of missionaries and ministers is an act of love to which we are called by God.
When is worship offensive to God-- Isaiah 66-1-4 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that getting worship wrong is a consequence of getting God wrong and getting ourselves wrong.
How should we respond, when we see others breaking God's law-- Psalm 119-121-128 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we ought to plead with God, as those who belong to Him, and desire Him to conform us to His Word, in consistency with His own character.
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we learned, from WCF 19.1, about how God gave the moral law in the covenant of works.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 48-especially explaining how all of life is lived before God's face, and therefore must be unto God's glory, according to God's law, and in relationship with Him. --Q48. What are we specially taught by these words before Me in the first commandment-- These words before Me in the first commandment teach us that God, who seeth all things, taketh notice of, and is much displeased with, the sin of having any other god.
How should we respond, when we see others breaking God's law? Psalm 119:121–128 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we ought to plead with God, as those who belong to Him, and desire Him to conform us to His Word, in consistency with His own character.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 109—especially explaining how the Lord's Prayer gives us all the categories that need to be included in our prayer. Q109. How many petitions are there in the Lord's Prayer? Six.
How ought we respond to wisdom's invitation? Proverbs 2:1–9 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these fourteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when we seek wisdom truly, we seek God Himself, Who gives Himself to us, along with the understanding that we need.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 48—especially explaining how all of life is lived before God's face, and therefore must be unto God's glory, according to God's law, and in relationship with Him. Q48. What are we specially taught by these words before Me in the first commandment? These words before Me in the first commandment teach us that God, who seeth all things, taketh notice of, and is much displeased with, the sin of having any other god.
Why did John need help? Matthew 11:7–15 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that every believer in this life still needs help from Christ, because the path to glory is a battle that requires zeal and strength and perseverance.
If God has already determined what will happen, what should we do? Numbers 20:14–21:3 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these nineteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must trust God to do His own almighty work, while sustaining us by His grace in the duties that He has assigned to us.
What should be one of the greatest joys in the Christian life? 3John v1–4 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that loving others well, and loving the truth well, makes other believers' walking in that truth one of the greatest joys in the Christian life.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 47—especially explaining how it is a rejection of the Lord to fail to acknowledge and identify with the Lord, or to put anything else into His place. Q47. What is forbidden in the first commandment? The first commandment forbiddeth the denying, or not worshiping and glorifying the true God as God, and our God; and the giving of that worship and glory to any other, which is due to Him alone.
What will make the trouble of the creation be forgotten? Isaiah 65:17–25 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God will make a new creation that causes the former one to be forgotten.
What's at stake in our choice of the companions in our life? Psalm 119:113–120 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must choose between the Lord Himself and those whose companionship would hinder us from loving and obeying Him.
How can we keep from being enticed in the way of the world? Proverbs 1:20–33 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these fourteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom itself entices us, as an alternative to the self-destroying enticements of sin.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 108—especially explaining how the Lord's Prayer shapes us and our priorities in prayer. Q108. Repeat the Lord's Prayer. Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we learned, from WCF 18.4.r, about how believers can be sustained in the midst of those times when their assurance is diminished or intermitted.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from "the Proverb of the day." In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God sees and punishes all sin and has a special care for the fatherless.
How can faith in Christ be strengthened in hard circumstances? Matthew 11:1–6 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ strengthens us in hard circumstances through the preaching of His Word.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's giving us His world and word obligates us to live wisely in light of both.
Why is the truth about Jesus so important-- 2John v7-13 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the truth about Jesus is crucial, because lies about Jesus will keep you from having Jesus Himself.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 43-especially explaining how God puts His own law into context for His people. --Q43. What is the preface to the ten commandments-- The preface to the ten commandments is in these words, I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 104-especially explaining how Jesus uses His law to teach us rightly about ourselves and Himself. --Q104. Of what use are the ten commandments to us-- They teach us our duty, and show our need of a Savior.
How does idolatry progress, and how does God respond to it-- Isaiah 65-11-16 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that idolatry doesn't just add to God but turns us against Him, so that He is right to judge the idolaters among His people and make them into a warning for others.
What is the role of the Word in the believer's life-- Psalm 119-105-112 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Word of God is not just a tool for the believer but a means by which God Himself is our guide, God Himself is our companion, and God Himself is our treasure and joy.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 46-especially explaining how the first commandment requires holding to the doctrine of the Trinity and believing in Christ. --Q46. What is required in the first commandment-- The first commandment requireth us to know and acknowledge God to be the only true God, and our God- and to worship and glorify Him accordingly.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 107-especially explaining how Jesus gave us a form of prayer to teach us prayer as worship of God and fellowship with Father in the Son by the Spirit. --Q107. What has Christ given us to teach us how to pray-- The Lord's Prayer.
How can we escape self-destruction-- Proverbs 1-8-19 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that heeding good counsel and watching against the companionship of the worldly are means by which we may escape self-destruction.
What difference does Christ make-- Matthew 10-34-42 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ brings great cost into the Christian's life, but greater reward.
Wisdom is found especially in a being, the triune God and especially in His Son, the Logos-Christ
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a wife has great power to build or destroy, based upon whether or not she fears the Lord.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 45-especially explaining how the placement of the first commandment indicates that our relation to God is foundational to every other part of our existence and morality. --Q45. Which is the first commandment-- The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 106-especially explaining how prayer is worship that draws near to God, and Jesus is the only way to do that. --Q106. In Whose Name should we pray-- Only in the Name of Christ.
Who loves the church-- 2John v1-6 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all in whom Christ abides love the church.
To whom does the Lord give Himself-- Isaiah 65-1-10 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord gives Himself, by sovereign grace, to sinners from all nations.
What is the best-- Psalm 119-97-104 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's Word, by which God works, is the best.
The bigger that God is to you, the smaller other fearful things will be to you, in many different ways
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we learned, from WCF 18.4.p, about how difficult providence or sudden temptation can diminish or intermit our assurance of faith.
What is the purpose of Proverbs-- Proverbs 1-1-7 looks forward to the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Proverbs conforms our minds and lives to Christ's.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ is true wealth, and that we should be content to have Him and diligent to increase in Him.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is the wisdom of God from all eternity, the Person Who made us and saves us, apart from Whom we suffer everlasting destruction.
How can we resist fear of man-- Matthew 10-24-33 looks forward to the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that fear of God cures fear of man.
The chief end of the gospel is God's glory in Christ, Who is glorified in strengthened Christians from all nations.
What is the purpose and privilege of the priesthood-- Numbers 18 looks forward to the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the priesthood exists to save the lives of God's people, and obtains the high privilege of having God Himself as their portion.
What do we know-- 1John 5-20-21 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God is triune, and Jesus is God.
What hope is there for those whose sins carry them away like the wind-- Isaiah 63-15-64-12 looks forward to the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seventeen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the only hope for sinners is the love and zeal and power of the Lord, their Redeemer.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 44-especially explaining how the ten commandments, while obligatory to God from all creatures, are only possible for and especially obligatory upon His covenant people. --Q44. What doth the preface to the ten commandments teach us-- The preface to the ten commandments teacheth us that because God is the Lord, and our God, and Redeemer, therefore we are bound to keep all His commandments.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 105-especially explaining how true praying is praying according to God's own will and Word. --Q105. What is prayer-- Prayer is asking God for things which He has promised to give.
Where can true and lasting delight be found-- Psalm 119-89-96 looks forward to opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true and lasting delight can only be found in the Lord, by means of His Word.
Because we know the character of God and the place that He has given His Word, even at the end of his rope, the believer must persist in crying out to God for the life that he needs to keep searching God's Word and keeping the testimonies of God's mouth
The Spirit identifies true Christians by their Christ-like character, by their beliefs about Christ, and by their recognition of Christ's Word
When we know that we have eternal life, and indeed the Son of God Himself, prayer becomes a sweet fellowship with Christ, Who hears us.
In His saving work, King Jesus is glorified as the majestic King Who delivers His people with a zeal and power and justice that are fueled by His magnificent love.
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we learned from WCF 18.3o about how assurance combats sin.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true friendship gives us the help that we need, and God is the truest Friend of all.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true honor has a purpose that is blessed by God.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true nobility is to live by wisdom from the Lord and surround oneself with those who are wise.
Honoring others increases the encouragement that we may have from them-especially honoring Christ, Who is God, but has given Himself both for us and to us.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that it is knowledge of the Lord that must be the foundation for the thriving of our homes, and especially of our households.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that if we haven't been assigned to talk, and the Lord Himself means little to someone, we mustn't spend wise words on them.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 103-especially explaining how the remaining of the dead, former self within the believer means that even he does not keep God's commandments perfectly in this life. --Q103. Can any man keep these ten commandments perfectly-- No mere man, since the fall of Adam, ever did or can keep the ten commandments perfectly.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 42-especially explaining how loving God with one's whole being is the purpose of our existence, and the only true way to love oneself, which demands that we also desire the same for our neighbor. --Q42. What is the sum of the ten commandments-- The sum of the ten commandments is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind- and our neighbor as ourselves.
God puts a sign of the High Priest's mediation between Himself and His people, because for His sake, He spares them from death.
WCF 18.3 details the benefits of assurance of faith in these words- -that thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, in love and thankfulness to God, and in strength and cheerfulness in the duties of obedience, the proper fruits of this assurance-
What can a believer do when he is at the end of his rope-- Psalm 119-81-88 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, even at the end of his rope, the believer must persist in crying out to God for the life he needs to keep searching God's Word and keeping the testimonies of God's mouth.
How can Christians be more encouraged-- Romans 16-21-24 prepares us for the midweek sermon in the prayer meeting. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christians can gain encouragement by honoring those who encourage them, and especially by receiving Christ's own grace.
Who can come near the Lord-- Numbers 17 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord alone chooses who may come near Him.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the true poverty isn't simple food but sinful living.
What is the great battle-- 1John 5-18-19 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, whether in our heart or the whole world, the great battle is between what is from God and what is under the sway of the devil.
Jesus, the Lord of the harvest and the great Shepherd, sends laborers to harvest His sheep by preaching in His authority, attended by His power.
Sabbath School class, working carefully through the Westminster Confession of Faith by way of the proof texts, and coming this week to 18.3m- -And therefore it is the duty of everyone to give all diligence to make his calling and election sure,- by way of 2Peter 1-5-11.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 102-especially explaining how being happy with the Lord Himself is at the heart of the law. --Q102. What does the tenth commandment teach us-- To be content with our lot.
With what does prayer for help and revival begin-- Isaiah 63-7-14 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that prayer for help and revival begins with the Lord's own character and commitment.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 41-especially explaining how the Ten Commandments are a wondrous summary of all morality. --Q41. Where is the moral law summarily comprehended-- The moral law is summarily comprehended in the ten commandments.
What do saints want-- Psalm 119-73-80 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that saints want to bless each other.
Must Christians welcome all-- Romans 16-17-20 prepares us for the midweek sermon in the prayer meeting. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we are to note and to shun causers of division and stumbling.
What is the gospel ministry-- Matthew 10-1-15 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus sends preachers to gather His sheep.
What can be done for our hardening, blinding sin, and the wrath that it deserves-- Numbers 16-41-50 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ humbled Himself and suffered the wrath due to our sin to deliver us from it and glorify Himself.
What should we do, when we see a brother sinning-- 1John 5-16-17 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when we see a brother sin, we should pray to God to give Him life.
Why and how do Christians greet one another-- Romans 16-3-16 prepares us for the midweek sermon in the prayer meeting. In these fourteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christians delight in one another and honor one another, glorifying the Christ Who has brought them together and used them in one another's lives
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 40-especially explaining how Adam was given the moral law from the beginning. --Q40. What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience-- The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience was the moral law.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 101-especially explaining how the tenth commandment bookends with the first, sums up the second table, and shows how the whole law addresses the heart. --Q101. What is the tenth commandment-- The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the wisdom of God gives a clear and open invitation to all, and that Christ Himself is the wisdom of God.
Whom do the watchers and the bride see coming-- Isaiah 63-1-6 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord Jesus is the kingly and divine Speaker, Justifier, Savior, Avenger, and Redeemer.
What is good for us-- Psalm 119-65-72 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that whatever our good God gives us is good for us.
Jesus has prepared a harvest of people whom He redeems through preaching in response to prayer.
How does Jesus respond to seeing the cursed humanity-- Matthew 9-35-38 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus responds to cursed humanity with compassion in which He sends preachers and commands prayer for them.
What do envy and idolatry have in common-- Numbers 16-1-40 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these forty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that envy and idolatry both reject the Lord.
How can we pray confidently-- 1John 5-14-15 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that assurance of faith makes us sure that God hears us and answers us.
God's holy day is especially for His holy people to rejoice in the holiness of their God.
The Holy Spirit is the Giver of assurance of faith to believers- -yet, being enabled by the Spirit to know the things which are freely given him of God-
What is the result of the King-Servant's work and prayers-- Isaiah 62-8-12 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord Jesus works and prays to reverse the curse and take to Himself a bride to bless and love forever.
How does the Lord come to be our portion, and what is it like when He is-- Psalm 119-57-64 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when the Lord is our portion, certainty that we have Him and His faithfulness to His Word frees us to see His love everywhere and trustingly do our duty.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 39-especially explaining how our duty includes not only obedience to God's law but attendance upon Him in the means of His grace in order to keep His law. --Q39. What is the duty which God requireth of man-- The duty which God requireth of man is obedience to His revealed will.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 100-especially explaining how we must only speak what's true- helpful, important, necessary, and kind. --Q100. What does the ninth commandment teach us-- To tell the truth.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 38-especially explaining how at the resurrection, the Lord brings us to our chief end of glorifying and enjoying Him. --Q38. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the resurrection-- At the resurrection, believers, being raised up in glory, shall be openly acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment, and made perfectly blessed in the full enjoying of God to all eternity.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 99-especially explaining how names are valuable as our neighbor's most precious earthly possession, and words are valuable as being created to worship God and image Him in serving others. --Q99. What is the ninth commandment-- The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
Why should we serve each other-- Romans 16-1-2 prepares us for the midweek sermon in the prayer meeting. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that saints have multiple reasons for serving each other.
What are we to see about Jesus-- Matthew 9-27-34 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that faith sees Jesus's Kingship, mercy, power, and devil-defeating glory.
Praying biblically for ministry conforms unto Christ our thoughts and feelings about ministry.
Why is Sabbath breaking so bad-- Numbers 15-32-41 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must be holy because we belong to our Creator and Redeemer.
What does faith get for us-- 1John 5-12-13 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that faith in Christ gets us life in Christ Himself, God Himself.
How is Zion's desolation turned to delight-- Isaiah 61-10-62-7 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ rejoices in the Lord, Who clothes Him with righteousness and joy for Christ's Zion.
What is it like to hope in God's Word-- Psalm 119-49-56 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that hoping in God's Word gives us God Himself as our constant companion.
This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the essence of faith, but that a true believer may wait long, and conflict with many difficulties, before he be partaker of it
The Lord provides atonement for sin, both for the visible church and for individuals, but He does not tolerate sin in either of them.
Jesus combines tender love and death-destroying power as He Himself saves His people through faith in Him Himself.
By what means doe the Lord bring His love and salvation into our lives-- Psalm 119-41-48 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord brings His love and salvation into our lives especially by means of His Word.
What does Jesus do to believers-- Matthew 9-18-26 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus saves believers from death in divine power and Fatherly love.
What must God's people do about sin-- Numbers 15-22-31 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God gives His people procedures by which to take sin, atonement, and forgiveness seriously.
We should love to serve, and to see other believers serve, because believers' service is Christ's fruit unto Christ's glory.
What has God testified-- 1John 5-6-11 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God has testified that God has given us eternal life in His Son, Jesus.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true wealth is to possess the Lord Himself, and it is obtained by true wisdom- living before the Lord in the light of His own character.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 98-especially explaining how material things are a good gift from God, when obtained -and employed- in the good ways that God has given us to do so. --Q98. What does the eighth commandment teach us-- To be honest and industrious.
What effect does Christ's preaching have-- Isaiah 61-4-9 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that His preaching brings His own into eternal joy.
The Lord's forgiveness of His people is so great, that He continues His promises to them, His pleasure in them, and His purposes for them in this world.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 37-especially explaining how the greatest benefit that believers get from Christ is Christ Himself. --Q37. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death-- The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness, and do immediately pass into glory- and their bodies, being still united to Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection.
Why does Paul want to come to Rome-- Romans 15-23-28 is an important passage for our current cultural moment. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Paul wants to go to Rome in order to bear spiritual fruit.
The Lord is as He says He is and does as He says He will. If you do not trust this by His grace, then you will suffer the truth of it under His wrath.
Jesus came to be our righteousness and to give us a repentance that we could never give ourselves.
Why is perversion of marriage so abominable and alarming-- Romans 1-24-32 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that perversion of marriage is abominable and alarming because being given over to this sin, and its celebration, is a display of being under God's righteous wrath for refusing to know Him.
Whom does Jesus call-- Matthew 9-9-13 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus calls sinners to repentance.
What should we -spy- about our circumstances-- Numbers 13-14 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these seventy-eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the great thing that we should see in every circumstance is the Lord Himself, what He is like, and what He has promised to do.
Proper Christian boasting glories in Christ's past work to stir up desire and confidence in Christ's future work.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that marriage is like water for our spiritual life and must be kept pure.
How good are God's commandments-- 1John 4-21-5-3 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's commandments are such blessings as are designed to foster assurance that we are His.
What does the coming of the Servant usher in-- Isaiah 60 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these twenty-two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ's coming has initiated a restoration of Israel that is of an international and spiritual Israel that ultimately belongs to an altogether new, glorious, and eternal creation.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those who belong to the light must be watchful against the least step toward the way of the wicked.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that living by God's Word is more than memorization or even obedience- it is a life lived by knowing God.
We continue to study the Scriptures behind the sound and sweet doctrine of our church's Confession of Faith. This week, we come to WCF 18.2h and the Spirit's work in giving believers assurance of faith.
The Lord will vindicate His own, which liberates them from fear to pray for their enemies
Who is to praise YHWH, in what manner, in the last day-- Psalm 98 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that in Day of Judgment, believers from all nations will sing and shout joyfully over the Lord, together with a liberated creation.
Our greatest need -forgiveness of sins- becomes Christ's greatest miracle, by which He shows that He is God Who came into the world to save us from our sins.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 96-especially explaining how God's greatest earthly gift shows us a great need for purity, which applies to all of His gifts. --Q96. What does the seventh commandment teach us-- To be pure in heart, language, and conduct.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 34-especially explaining how God works to make us more and more fit for glory. --Q35. What is sanctification-- Sanctification is the work of God's free grace, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and live unto righteousness.
How is the apostle's boasting proper-- Romans 15-17-22 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that proper boasting rejoices over Christ, worships Him, and looks for more of His glorious grace.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christians should speak up for those who can't do so, both as citizens and as magistrates.
What deliverance did Jesus come to give us-- Matthew 9-1-8 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus came to give us the deliverance of the forgiveness of sins.
God's intention toward believers is to fill them with joy, peace, faith, hope, goodness, knowledge, and holiness unto God's glory.
Why is humility so important-- Numbers 12 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these sixteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that humility keeps us from provoking God's anger on the one hand, and also from failing, by trying to vindicate ourselves, to leave room for that anger.
What can we see, that will give us boldness for the judgment-- 1John 4-12-20 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we can see one another, and the perfecting of God's own love in our loving one another, which is the work of His Spirit, Whom He has given with His Son.
What hope is there for sinners-- Isaiah 59 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these twenty-one verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the triune God, Himself, is the only hope for sinners.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us how letting sin tyrannize our hearts leads to being tyrannized by others.
How can those returning to dust live forever-- Psalm 119-25-32 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that dead sinners come to live forever by the Lord Himself, using His Word, to bring us into and keep us in the way of life.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us the great harm that is done by foolish wrath and jealousy.
We ought to be content to have the Lord Himself, and we ought to have confidence in His Spirit
We must trust in Jesus alone to save us, because He is true and living God- and, we must welcome whatever difference He makes in our lives as our Savior.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 34-especially explaining what happens when a sinner is adopted through faith in Christ. --Q34. What is adoption-- Adoption is an act of God's free grace, whereby we are received into the number, and have a right to all the privileges of, the sons of God.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 95-especially explaining how the placement of the seventh commandment urges upon us the weightiness of marriage. --Q95. What is the seventh commandment-- The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Why has the apostle written so boldly to the Roman church-- Romans 15-13-16 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God the Holy Spirit is sustaining and blessing the work of consecrating believers for the worship of God in Christ.
Who is Jesus-- Matthew 8-23-34 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is God, the Lord over all.
When we welcome one another in order to see all God's elect brought to worship Him, we are participating in that purpose for all things that is Christ's own aim.
What is Israel like, as God's chosen people-- Numbers 11 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these thirty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Israel, God's chosen people, are wrath-deserving sinners like Egypt and the rest of the world.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the prudent hide themselves in Christ, humbling themselves before the Lord and fearing Him.
Why must Christians love one another-- 1John 4-7-11 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christians must love one another because God reveals Himself in loving us and reveals who His children are by their loving with that love.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that living acceptably to God is not only in the externals but especially in the conforming of the heart to God's character and the righteousness of the man and his actions through faith in Christ.
What peace does a true prophet proclaim-- Isaiah 58 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these fourteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a true prophet proclaims the peace of true religion, finding God in Christ to be the great good and the great delight, Who has given us a day to train us in delighting in Him.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 33-especially explaining how God makes sinners right with Him. --Q33. What is justification-- Justification is an act of God's free grace, wherein He pardoneth all our sins, and accepteth us as righteous in His sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 94-especially explaining what the Bible teaches about how to avoid angry passions to keep the sixth commandment. --Q94. What does the sixth commandment teach us-- To avoid angry passions.
What comfort does a believer have in his troubles-- Psalm 119-17-24 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the believer's great comfort is God Himself, especially by means of His Word.
Following Christ can only be done by His grace, because following-Christ costs us everything
How did the church come to have the strong and the weak in it together-- Romans 15-8-12 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the weak and the strong are together in Christ's church, so that He might be glorified in each, and in how they welcome one another for His sake.
What can get in the way of true discipleship-- Matthew 8-18-22 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that pride and half-heartedness are two obstacles to true discipleship.
Christians must delight most of all in God and His glory, leading them to prefer their brothers to themselves, just as Christ did.
What does the Lord provide His church for her task in this world-- Numbers 10-11-36 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these twenty-six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, among other things, the Lord provides His church with order and leadership, expertise, and His own power and presence.
How can we test for true Christianity-- 1John 3-24-4-6 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we may test for true Christianity by righteousness and love, by the doctrine of a true incarnation of Christ, and by adherence to the teaching of the apostles.
What sinner can find peace-- Isaiah 56-9-57-21 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these twenty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the only sinners who find peace are those whom the Lord heals and brings from the family of idolatry into His own family.
What can cleanse a sinner from sinning-- Psalm 119-9-16 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that only God Himself cleanses sinners from sinning, which He has appointed to do via His Word as the means of His grace.
Because of His ability, authority, and atonement, Jesus alone can be -and is perfectly-entirely- our Savior
WCF 18.1a-b presents the biblical teaching that false assurance is a real, and terrible, danger.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that being a wise son is training so that we don't end up in the position of advanced folly called the -scoffer.-
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 32-especially explaining how union with Christ has brought us into inestimable benefits already, now, in this life. --Q32. What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this life-- They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 93-especially explaining how the sixth commandment connects loving God with loving those whom He created in His own image. --Q93. What is the sixth commandment-- The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.
For what sort of uniformity should believers immediately strive-- Romans 15-1-7 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that believers should immediately strive for the uniformity of conformity to Christ in praise and love.
How did Jesus attest to Himself-- Matthew 8-1-17 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus attested to Himself by miraculous healings.
How will the Lord's people know when to do what-- Numbers 10-1-10 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God gives His people the distinct soundings of His call so that they will properly prepare for action.
Those who have gained liberty by a biblically informed conscience should employ it in love, seeking the same for their brethren.
How important is sacrificial love-- 1John 3-16-23 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that sacrificial love in our hearts is used by God to assure us , even before Him.
What do those looking forward to salvation do-- Isaiah 56-1-8 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those who look forward to salvation do righteousness, especially that of not defiling the Sabbath, but keeping it with God's people.
Hope only in Christ for forgiveness, and devote yourself entirely to Christ in holiness
As we come to hear about the delight in the law of the Lord, what does the first stanza of this great Psalm emphasize-- Psalm 119-1-8 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the first stanza of this great Psalm emphasizes to us that God's Word is God's own Word.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the actions of the wicked overflow from a heart that God sees and that God will Judge.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 92-especially explaining what difference honoring makes in our submitting to and obeying authorities. --Q92. What does the fifth commandment teach us-- To love and obey our parents and teachers.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 31-especially explaining what the Spirit must do -and does- to bring the elect into Christ by Faith. --Q31. What is effectual calling-- Effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit, whereby, convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing our wills, he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the gospel.
How should the strong act-- Romans 14-10-23 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these fourteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the strong should use liberty for building up the weak.
Of what must we beware-- Matthew 7-15-29 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must beware of false prophets and false hope of salvation.
Why does the Lord describe again, here, the cloud and its role-- Numbers 9-15-23 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the promise-keeping Lord leads His people through their callings in this world.
Those who live and die unto the Lord must show it by receiving the Lord's people in the Lord's way.
How can we distinguish the children of God from the children of the devil-- 1John 3-10-15 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that one clear way to distinguish the children of God from the children of the devil is whether they love the brethren.
Who are brought into the salvation of the Servant-- Isaiah 55 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all of the needy, who are given repentance by God's Word, are brought into the glorious salvation of the Servant.
The Lord is the same throughout His dealings with His people, and if we don't come to Him as He has commanded and in the way that He has commanded, then we will perish.
There are exactly two ways to live, and yours is either headed to destruction or to life.
This perseverance of the saints depends upon -...- the nature of the covenant of grace.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 91-especially explaining how honoring parents is the school in which we learn to love God, honor all authorities, and love our neighbors. --Q91. What is the fifth commandment-- The fifth commandment is, Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 30-especially explaining how the Spirit's application to us of Christ's redemption occurs by His bringing us into union with Christ. --Q30. How doth the Spirit apply to us the redemption purchased by Christ-- The Spirit applieth to us the redemption purchased by Christ, by working faith in us, and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual calling.
How should we praise and pray-- Psalm 118-19-29 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we ought to praise and pray as those who are united to Christ.
What is the great choice of our existence-- Matthew 7-13-14 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that there are only two ways to live-one that leads to life, and one that leads to destruction.
Christians should begin living now, already, our heavenly life, which we are enabled to do by putting on Christ.
Why does God remind them about the Passover-- Numbers 9-1-14 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these fourteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the God of the first Passover is the God of the second, and He requires that it be kept, and that it be kept correctly, by all of His church and only His church.
What's the big deal about sin-- 1John 3-4-10 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that sin is a big deal because it is opposed to God, opposed to Christ, and opposed to the new life and identity of the believer.
What does the Servant secure for the church-- Isaiah 54 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these seventeen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Servant secures for the church an age in which He Himself is her Head, and the Lord deals with her accordingly.
What does a righteous home sound like-- Psalm 118-15-18 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a righteous home is loud with the sound of rejoicing over Jesus.
In Christ, our High Priest, all of His saints are designated by God for service as living sacrifices.
Progress in holiness comes through fellowship with Father, Who even uses us in our brothers' lives.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 29-especially explaining how just as God has accomplished our redemption in Christ, so also it is God Who applies to us our redemption by His Spirit. --Q29. How are we made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ-- We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual application of it to us by His Holy Spirit.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 90-especially explaining how the whole Lord's Day is to be spent in the acts of God's worship --Q90. How should the Sabbath be spent-- In prayer and praise, in hearing and reading God's Word, and in doing good to our fellow men.
How can Christians shake off complacency in their lives-- Romans 13-11-14 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christians combat complacency by consideration of what has begun in them, and Who He is that is doing it.
What is progressing in holiness like-- Matthew 7-7-12 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that progressing in holiness comes through fellowship with a good Father, Who even uses us in our brothers' lives.
What are we to see in the ordination and work of the Levites-- Numbers 8-5-26 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these twenty-two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that in Christ, our High Priest, all of His saints are designated by God for priestly service as living sacrifices.
What do God's children do-- 1John 2-28-3-3 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's children abide in Christ and purify themselves as He is pure.
For the people who know that the great thing about them is their God, their great God insists that they know His great grace to them in favor and fellowship.
How did the Servant bring many sons to glory-- Isaiah 52-13-53-12 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that it was by His suffering that the Servant brought many sons to glory.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 28-especially explaining how Christ is exalted both as a divine Person and as the glorious true Man over the new creation. --Q28. Wherein consisteth Christ's exaltation-- Christ's exaltation consisteth in His rising again from the dead on the third day, in ascending up into heaven, in sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and in coming to judge the world at the last day.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 89-especially explaining how it is from the Lord Himself that we learn to call the first-day-Sabbath -The Lord's Day.- --Q89. Why is it called the Lord's Day-- Because on that day Christ rose from the dead.
What does the life of the redeemed look like-- Psalm 118-1-14 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these fourteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the life of the redeemed is one of thankfulness, trust, and triumph.
What debt may a Christian conscientiously leave outstanding-- Romans 13-8-10 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the only debt that we should leave outstanding is the debt of love.
How does treasuring holiness shape our relationships-- Matthew 7-1-6 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that treasuring our own holiness humbles us and sweetens us to be helpful to others who are treasuring holiness.
God, Who rules in all authority, rules over and through each individual authority, demanding that we do good-both in authority and under it.
How does arranging a lamp connect to 12 days of offering collection-- Numbers 7-89-8-4 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that every one of the Lord's people ultimately enjoy the shining of His favor and the sharing of His fellowship in Christ.
What does the Spirit do for believers-- 1John 2-18-27 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Spirit keeps believers from becoming antichrists by confirming Scripture and biblical teaching to them, so that they abide in God by abiding in Christ.
How will the return from exile anticipate ultimate redemption-- Isaiah 51-17-52-12 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these nineteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the return from exile anticipates ultimate redemption by displaying God's glory in saving us.
Who should praise YHWH and why-- Psalm 117 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that all nations and all peoples should praise and magnify YHWH, especially for His covenant love and faithfulness.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 88-especially explaining how the Sabbath became the first day of the week by God's self-revelation in Christ. --Q88. What day of the week is the Christian Sabbath-- The first day of the week, called the Lord's Day.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 27-especially explaining how Christ was both infinitely humiliated to become a man and greatly humiliated even as a man. --Q27. Wherein did Christ's humiliation consist-- Christ's humiliation consisted in His being born, and that in a low condition, made under the law, undergoing the miseries of this life, the wrath of God, and the cursed death of the cross- in being buried, and continuing under the power of death for a time.
On account of trusting and treasuring God as Father in Christ, worrying is excluded from any rightful place in the life of a Christian.
What difference does treasuring God make in daily life-- Matthew 6-25-34 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that treasuring God demolishes worrying.
Beyond their mutual love unto one another in the Lord, believers are to treat all other men well for the Lord.
How does the Scripture prepare us to hear about departure from Sinai -ch 9-10--- Numbers 7 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these eighty-eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Scripture prepares us to hear about departure from Sinai by reemphasizing the preparation of the tabernacle service.
What can a saint give to God-- Psalm 116-10-19 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that saints -give- God the worship in which it is God Who blesses them.
What mustn't a Christian love-- 1John 2-15-17 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a Christian must not love the world.
What must faith do-- Isaiah 51-1-16 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these sixteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that faith listens to Christ.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 26-especially explaining how Christ is King over us in every needful way. --Q26. How doth Christ execute the office of a king-- Christ executeth the office of a king, in subduing us to Himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all His and our enemies.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 87-especially explaining how the Lord commands us to delight in Him above all created things. --Q87. What does the fourth commandment teach us-- To keep the Sabbath holy.
The Lord's appointed worship leader pronounces God's Name upon His gathered people, because God Himself comes to them and blesses them.
Christians must count God Himself as their treasure, which means not living for anything else.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that only God's pure words give us true knowledge of Him in Whom we trust.
What difference does God's secret and open reward make-- Matthew 6-19-24 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that if we learn, by grace, to treasure God in secret -and openly- both now and forever, it will transform our whole self, our whole life.
True love among believers is a law-defined, grace-sustained, providence-arranged life together.
What is the priest commanded to do to the people in the worship-- Numbers 6-22-27 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord's appointed worship leader must pronounce the Name of God upon His gathered people, because He Himself will come to them and bless them.
Who are the great ones on the earth-- 1John 2-12-14 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christians are the great ones on the earth, whom we should love with a special love.
What is the solution to Zion's lack of faith-- Isaiah 49-14-50-11 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these twenty-four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God answers His people's lack of faith with His own faithfulness and the perfect faith of the Servant, their Substitute.
What do we learn from desperate situations-- Psalm 116-1-9 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that desperate situations train us to live in love with the Lord.
Not only the corporately, but each individually, saints are separated unto God as those who delight in Him, and in whom He delights, especially in-for worship.
Christians must habitually turn to God as their only Happiness and their only Help, by which He trains our hearts to see and know that this is so in all other happiness or help that He gives us.
Scripture teaches us that, as citizens, we have several responsibilities to the magistrate-particularly as those who know the kingship of Christ over all things.
By the gospel, the God of glorious mind and mercy transforms sinners from the perversion of their self-willed self-service into members of Christ who sacrifice themselves for other members' good. He gives gifts TO us that are FROM Him and FOR His church.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 86-especially explaining how the placement of the fourth commandment indicates the importance of keeping God's appointed worship times. --Q86. What is the fourth commandment-- The fourth commandment is, Remember the sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work, but the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God- in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates- for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day- wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 25-especially explaining how Christ is our effective and eternal Priest. --Q25. How doth Christ execute the office of a priest-- Christ executeth the office of a priest, in His once offering up of Himself a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, and reconcile us to God- and in making continual intercession for us.
How should we approach relationships in the church-- Romans 12-9-16 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should consider our relationship with each other member of the church to be a Christ-given relationship.
What is the point of a Nazirite vow-- Numbers 6-1-21 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these twenty-one verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, all of God's people must be consecrated to Him as holy, finding in Him their happiness and their fellowship.
What does walking in the light look like-- 1John 2-3-11 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that walking in the light looks like loving the brethren.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 85-especially explaining how the way that we speak, hear, and live must respect the weightiness of God's Name. --Q85. What does the third commandment teach us-- To reverence God's Name, Word, and works.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 24-especially explaining how Christ has been our glorious Prophet from the beginning, during His earthly life, in the apostolic period of the church, and ever since. --Q24. How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet-- Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in revealing to us, by His Word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation.
The fasting that Jesus warned against was the same as the God-hating fasting of those who have not learned the principle of the Sabbath.
What is the greatness of God's salvation-- Isaiah 49-1-13 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord makes His salvation great in quality and in quantity because He is employing it to glorify His chosen Servant.
What is Christian fasting-- Matthew 6-16-18 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christian fasting is a period of not eating in order to enjoy God as all of our delight and the One upon Whom we entirely depend.
How do the instructions in this chapter fit together-- Numbers 5 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these thirty-one verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, as those among whom God dwells, Christians must conscientiously maintain their holiness, relationships, and hearts.
Being truly Reformed means overflowing with praise about and unto God with the lip and the life.
What difference does fellowship God make in our daily living-- 1John 1-5-2-2 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when we have fellowship with God, we walk in His light as those being cleansed by Christ.
The Levites had a great priestly work to do, which points us to the greater-ness of Christ's priestly work, and even a greater-ness in our own priesthood.
Prayer is a means of God's grace by which He gives us to embrace His will in submission, and to learn His will as we pray according to Scripture.
This perseverance of the saints depends, not upon their own free will, but upon -...- the abiding of the Spirit and of the seed of God within them -...-
What makes the difference between the fate of sinful Babylon and sinful Israel-- Isaiah 47-48 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these thirty-seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that for the sake of His Name and praise, which the Lord has invested in them, the Lord delivers Israel.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 84-especially explaining how the placement of the third commandment teaches us that God's Name is infinitely weighty. --Q84. What is the third commandment-- The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain- for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His Name in vain.
Why are believers brought low -- Psalm 115-1-8 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when believers are brought low, it is for the glory of God.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 23-especially explaining how Christ redeems us by executing particular offices. --Q23. What offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer-- Christ, as our Redeemer, executeth the offices of a prophet, of a priest, and of a king, both in His estate of humiliation and exaltation.
How should we respond to the doctrine of God's sovereign grace-- Romans 11-33-36 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should respond to the doctrine of God's sovereign grace with wonder, worship, and humility.
God ordains that all whom He is saving would be shut up in disobedience so that He might have mercy upon all.
How should we pray to a Father Who knows what we need-- Matthew 6-7-15 prepares us for the morning sermon on the Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when you pray to a Father Who knows what you need, prayer is an embracing of His will.
Why did the Levites have to be numbered again-- Numbers 4 prepares us for the evening sermon on the Lord's Day. In these forty-nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the second numbering of the Levites emphasizes the greatness of the work of the priesthood.
Why must we have a proper Christology-- 1John 1-1-4 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must believe the right things about Jesus, because we cannot have life, fellowship, and joy in a figment of our imagination.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the sin of sexual immorality easily ensnares church members, ruining their souls and generations of their household.
Why mustn't we question God's providence-- Isaiah 45-9-46-13 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the Lord's Day. In these thirty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the only God Who can save is that unquestionable God Who carries us, and not the other way 'round.
In Christ, we are elected- and, in Him our substitute, we are redeemed as His possession
We must pray as children coming to an all-good, all-wise, all-powerful Father. Prayer as worship is a fellowship of communing with Him and a means of grace for bringing us into submission to Him.
This perseverance of the saints depends, not upon their own free will, but upon --- the efficacy of the merit and intercession of Jesus Christ.
Pastor teaches his family a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom is the companion who will never forsake you, more valuable than anything else that we can obtain.
How does the Lord most display His greatness-- Psalm 114 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the Lord's Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord most displays His greatness in saving His people.
Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 83-especially explaining how we must have grace in order to worship with the actions and attitudes required for the right worship of God. --Q83. What does the second commandment teach us-- To worship God in a proper manner, and to avoid idolatry.
Pastor walks his children through Westminster Shorter Catechism question 22-especially explaining how God the Son became the God-Man. --Q22. How did Christ, being the Son of God, become man-- Christ, the Son of God, became man, by taking to Himself a true body and a reasonable soul, being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the virgin Mary, and born of her, yet without sin.
Why have even elect Israelites been hardened-- Romans 11-28-32 prepares us for the sermon in the midweek prayer meeting. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God ordains that all whom He is saving would be shut up in disobedience so that He might have mercy upon all.
Why did Ananias and Sapphira die that day- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Acts 4-36-5-11 prepares us for the morning sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when God the Holy Spirit is working savingly and fruitfully in the church, we are in danger of trying to fake His work for the eyes of men, rather than seeking Him to produce fruit in us that brings Him praise. But, He Himself is a sure help in the face of this danger.
What are we to take away from the first battle with Amalek- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 17-8-16 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that while God's rod upon Himself was His solution to the problem of our sin against Him, God's rod against our enemies is the solution to the problem of their sin against us. In both cases, it is He Whom we must trust to use whatever means He has appointed to do this.
Jesus is a King so great that His bride and offspring owe Him all allegiance and love, and receive unfathomable honor and glory in their bond to Him.
Why was the apostle so urgent to send Timothy back to Thessalonica- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Thessalonians 2-17-3-2 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that as believers increase in love for Christ and one another, the prospect of seeing one another glorified in Him at His return stirs us up to fervent affection and diligent action.
What takes the Queen of Sheba's breath away- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 10 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's love for His people gives them a wise, wealthy, and righteous king. In these, Solomon far exceeded the other kings of the earth, but was infinitely exceeded by King Jesus. How infinitely happy are the subjects of King Jesus-
How does Jesus teach His disciples to pray- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Matthew 6-5-15 prepares us for the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ's followers pray not for man's eyes and ears but God's-as children of heaven rather than sons of Hell. Trusting Him, we pray for His priorities, His provision, and His protection, unto His praise.
We deserve wrath, but God who sought us out to save us struck Himself with the rod of His wrath, in order justly to give us life in the place of death.
-How Should the Sovereignty of God Strengthen Me- in the RHB series, -Cultivating Biblical Godliness.--2 of 2
God's power has always been His people's help and God's praise has always been His people's hope, and this holds true even in the most painful and inexplicable events of providence.
How does God keep His promise to establish Solomon's throne- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 9-10-28 prepares us for the second serial reading in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nineteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's establishing of Solomon's throne meant granting Israel political power, religious purity -or at least outward orthodoxy-, and economic prosperity.
We must live in remembrance and response to God's salvation, and we must rest in and rejoice over how He personally portions out to each of us what we need for each day.
-How Should the Sovereignty of God Strengthen Me- in the RHB series, -Cultivating Biblical Godliness.--1 of 2
The Lord emboldens His servants to speak in Jesus's Name by God's prophecies and promises, God's purpose and plan, and God's powerful providence.
How does God answer the apostolic church's request for boldness- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Acts 4-23-31 prepares us for the morning sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that some of what God uses to embolden His people to speak in Jesus's Name are- God's prophecies and promises, God's purpose and plan, God's providential power, and God's hearing and answering prayer.
What does the vocabulary of the passage about the jar of manna teach us- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 16-31-36 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us to live in remembrance and response to God's salvation, and especially to rest in and rejoice over how He personally portions out to each of us what we need for each day.
Because of all the blessed ways in which our God relates to us, we are able to come to Him in the midst of great trouble and grief and find safety and joy that shall last forever.
What actions showed the Thessalonians that Paul, Silas, and Timothy's ministry was authentic- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Thessalonians 2-8-12 prepares us for the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that biblical ministers and elders love deeply, are never -off the clock,- think about the good of the church in everything they do, and minister in every helpful way to each member personally in addition their public ministries.
What does Yahweh's second appearance to Solomon have in common with the first- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 9-1-9 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the timing of God's appearances to Solomon show forth His grace to sinners, and that the justness and holiness of God require us to hope not in a king like Solomon but in the only perfect King, Jesus.
What gets the Lord Jesus talking about sending the disciples to harvest- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. John 4-34-42 prepares us for the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that for the sake of the Father Who sent Him and of those whom He came to save, the Lord Jesus was eager to gather in a harvest of redeemed sinners. And we should reflect that eagerness both for our part in it and His.
Jesus's power conquers all, so let us have it as the power that gives and grows our spiritual life-
We must remember God's miraculous and infinitely generous response to our sin in Jesus Christ. Daily grace demands our daily trust in Him, and the weekly grace of the Sabbath compels our delight in Him.
How does the LORD respond to Israel's wickedness in this passage- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 16-8-30 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us to see God's miraculous and infinitely generous response to our sin in Jesus Christ, and how daily grace demands our daily trust in Him, and the weekly grace of the Sabbath compels our delight in Him.
Pastor leads his family in a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wisdom's obviousness shows just how stubborn our foolishness is in our wicked and rebellious, original state- but, wisdom's urgency shows the greatness of God's mercy to us.
God's face is the only help for the believer's face when we long for Him and His presence.
How could the Thessalonians see in the apostle's life that the apostle's preaching was powerful- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Thessalonians 2-1-7 prepares us for the opening section of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that spiritually seasoned teachers will be earnest, courageous, sincere, content, generous, and gentle.
What great benediction does Solomon pronounce, and what blessing do the people enjoy- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 8-54-66 prepares us for the first serial reading in public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord's people find their blessing in His infinite blessedness, which will require a new, eternal heaven and earth in which to enjoy Him.
How can we stop worrying- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Matthew 6-19-34 prepares us for the opening section of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these sixteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that seeing the Lord's goodness in everything solves not just the problem of worrying but also the sinful tendency to live for earthly things.
How we respond to God's providence reveals whether we consider God Himself the best part of His providence. Our choices are between God's fury and God's favor.
Jesus came to give all families of the earth the blessing of being turned from their iniquities
-How Can I Do All Things for God's Glory- in the RHB series, -Cultivating Biblical Godliness.--1 of 2
Pastor leads his family in a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when we sin, we are always seen, we are always caught, and it is always punished.
What does Peter have to offer at the temple gate- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Acts 3 prepares us for the morning sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-six verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our greatest crippling -sinfulness- can be cured by the strength and soundness that is in Jesus's Name not only to give us repentance, conversion, and forgiveness, but that turning from our iniquities which is necessary for living according to all that Christ has commanded.
What do our responses to Providence show about us- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 16-1-7 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that trials can expose whether we have hearts that grumble against God, and the way we respond to His good gifts -especially the Sabbath- will show whether we primarily enjoy the goodness of the gift or the goodness of the Giver.
The Lord is the great Considerer of the poor, and makes that poor one himself into a blessed considerer of the poor.
What are some ways that we may be an example to others of a true work of the Spirit- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Thessalonians 1-8-10 prepares us for the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those whom the Holy Spirit is displaying as an example to others will live lives that reverberate with the Word, will be unashamed and glad slaves of the true God, and will be characterized by eagerness for the return of Christ.
For what is Solomon praying at the temple dedication- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 8-22-53 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-two verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Solomon's prayer for the ultimate Davidic King, for the near-dwelling of God, for forgiveness, and for repentance, would all be answered fully and gloriously only in Jesus Himself.
How does God produce generations of faithful believers- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Psalm 78-1-8 prepares us for the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God produces obedience in individuals, and generations, through displaying to them the glory of His character and work-in public and family worship.
God offers them Egypt or Elim-Eden, Perishing or Paradise-and the choice hinges upon whether they are willing to desire Him above all.
When God grants repentance to people, He reorients their mindset, and reorders their life priorities, financial priorities, time priorities, and heart priorities.
Pastor leads his family in a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that fools bring misery upon those beneath them, those who entrust things to them, and especially upon themselves. In Christ, God offers forgiveness and repentance from folly, but a proud fool is being hardened to a state that becomes utterly hopeless.
What is so significant about the conduct of this first congregation of the gospel church- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Acts 2-40-47 prepares us for the morning sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the though the first congregation of the gospel church was composed so largely of those who had murdered Christ, the repentance that Christ gave them by His Spirit reordered their life priorities, financial priorities, time priorities, and heart priorities. Thus may all who come to Christ rest upon Him to do to them and in them-
The Lord Jesus perfectly responds to God, proclaiming His glory and the necessity of our responding to God with praise and proclamation.
What is so significant about this event that Psalm 95 and Hebrews 3-4 look to it as a warning of the choice between heaven and hell- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 15-22-27 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord presented His people with the perishing that they deserved -as Egypt had perished- but also with the paradise that He offered them -as Elim exemplified-.
Why is the apostle so thankful and encouraged as he prays for the Thessalonians and writes to them- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Thessalonians 1-1-7 prepares us for the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when the marks of Spirit-given faith, hope, and love appear in our lives or others' lives, we may take encouragement from a work of the Spirit that was purposed from eternity and will be fulfilled in glory-
What does God show about Himself at the inauguration of the temple- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 8-1-21 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-one verses, the Holy Spirit displays to us our God's holiness, mercy, glory, faithfulness, and nearness-
How does God bring His people into the blessing for which He has redeemed them- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Deuteronomy 6-1-9 prepares us for the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord brings us into full blessedness by making us knowers and lovers of Him. This He does by penetrating our hearts with His Word, via saturating our lives with His Word.
After displaying Himself in Israel's salvation, Yahweh gave Israel a song about it in which their hearts might be penetrated with the knowledge of Who Yahweh is-not only to Israel corporately but also to each Israelite individually.
Man's hope depends not upon his own profession, but upon God's promise, the sign of which is baptism.
What are we to make of this part of the making of the temple- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 7-13-51 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-nine verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that He sustains and superintends the building not only of Solomon's great, strong, beautiful, detailed, and costly temple-but also of that eternal temple of which even such a temple as Solomon's was a mere shadow of a hint.
How are we to stand against Satan- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Ephesians 6-10-18 prepares us for the first portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that thought the devil wars ferociously against us, yet we can stand in God's strength by His Spirit's use of His Word and prayer.
Israel failed to respond to the Lord in faith in the wilderness. They didn't recognize all that the Lord was giving them in their troubles, responding instead in unbelief. So, what should we seek from the Spirit to be enabled to see the Lord giving us in our troubles- We desire to see Him giving us His prescriptions, His presence, His power, and His praise.
Meek-hearted hearing, active repentance, and passive baptism are duties, but also gifts-granted to us upon Jesus's authority, in Jesus's power, by Jesus's Spirit.
Q-A through -Why Should We Sing Psalms,- in the RHB series, -Cultivating Biblical Godliness.-
Rebuking-chastising providence prompts us- to consider our wickedness and weakness and to cry out to God for forgiveness and help.
How are we at spiritual war- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Revelation 12 prepares us for the first portion of morning public worship on the previous Lord's Day. In these seventeen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a defeated devil has made war on every Christian, and we are to wage and win that war by the blood of the Lamb and the Word of His testimony.
God has His people right where He wants them -with regard for their weakness, -with regard for their enemies' wickedness, -with regard for their own wickedness, and -with regard for His worship.
You must come to the Lord for aid because He is ever-willing to give you His aid, because He is ever-able to provide you the right sort of aid, and He is ever-offering the promise of His Holy Spirit.
Q-A through the rest of -How Should We Develop Biblical Friendships,- in the RHB series, -Cultivating Biblical Godliness.-
How does Jesus teach us to pray- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 11-1-13 follows up on the sermon from morning public worship on the previous Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus's way for us to pray is as worshipers who offer prayer to God, as weaklings who come to an almighty God, and as the wicked who come to the God of forgiving and sanctifying grace.
Because the family is the root of all other societies, Christian fathers participate and strengthen the society first by doing their duty in the home. But they who lead in the home must also then take the lead in all of other societies that God has instituted.
As God's representative in and over the home, the Christian father must fulfill his role as God has given it to him, and do so in a manner that reflects the God who gave it.
God's fatherly goodness -and other perfect, fatherly attributes- establish and enable the reflection of those attributes as the standard for earthly fathers.
All of history is about God forming and gathering to Himself the children whom He has chosen in the Son, by the work of the Spirit of adoption, that they might know, show, and enjoy His glory.
Three instructions for living happily forever- depart from evil, wait on the Lord, and mark the blameless man. These are three ways by which the Lord keeps those whom He is saving in the righteous path of blessedness.
What are we to take away from these details about the temple construction- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 6 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-eight verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the history of all things is the history of God coming to dwell with His people in favor and fellowship through Jesus Christ.
The Lord gave all Israel both the sacrifice-redemption of the firstborn and the Passover to impress upon them and remind them that they ought to see and do everything as those whom He has saved from wrath by a substitute to live lives devoted unto Him.
The Spirit's coming at Pentecost proved that Jesus-Who had risen and ascended as Scriptures prophesied and the apostles witnessed-had taken His seat on the throne as both Lord and Christ, as the Scriptures prophesied.
Q-A through the first few pages of -How Should We Develop Biblical Friendships,- in the RHB series, -Cultivating Biblical Godliness.-
What is true freedom- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Romans 6-12-19 prepares us for the beginning portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eight verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true freedom isn't to be welcome to continue to be enslaved by what we feel like but rather liberated to be able to master every part of who we are in the holy and infinitely blessed service of God.
The contrast in character between the wicked and the righteous genuinely corresponds to the contrast in destiny between the wicked and the righteous
What are we to make of these extensive preparations- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 5 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eighteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord kept His promise to Solomon to give him wisdom, but especially His promise to David to give him a king-son who would build the temple. While that was true in a small way of Solomon, it is true in the grandest ways of Christ, Who is glorified in the building of His church upon the foundation of Himself.
What showed that the Lord was with Isaac- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Genesis 26-12-25 prepares us for the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these fourteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that much more even than Isaac's earthly prosperity, the Lord's being with Isaac was seen in his diligence, peaceability, and humble praise-and that all of these together formed a life filled with praise.
The Lord had multiplied Israel, gathered a multitude into them from all the nations, and identified them with Himself.
The Holy Spirit comes to confront sinners with the undeniable reality of Jesus Christ, risen and reigning, and redeeming sinners until He returns.
An overview and application of Joel Beeke's booklet, -How Should Teens Read the Bible,- in the RHB series, -Cultivating Biblical Godliness.-
What did -will-- life look like under the wisest king- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 4 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-four verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the display of Solomon's wisdom showed the blessedness of being under a wise king, especially pointing forward to the everlasting reign of our infinitely wise King Jesus.
Why are the Israelites called -the armies of Yahweh- here- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 12-37-51 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God has kept His covenant promises to multiply Abraham's seed, to bless all nations through him, and especially to be his covenant God and to take him as His covenant people.
What is the -Potter and Clay- illustration about- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Jeremiah 18-1-11 prepares us for the opening portion of Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that because God, the Potter, offers us repentance, we have no right either to complain against Him or to consider repenting hopeless.
God uses our persecutors to remind us of what we deserved, to give us ultimate victory, and to provide all things as our rightful inheritance.
While believers wait for Christ, they express their neediness and desire in prayer, live out their dependence by following His Word, and trust that He is ruling and overruling all things perfectly.
Unbelievers' inability to do good works is no excuse for their neglecting to do good works, and every sin increases their guilt before God.
God tells us about Himself so that we will perceive His goodness to us and love Him Who first loved us.
For what, and how, can believers strengthen their hearts- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. James 5-7-11 prepares us for the opening portion of Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that until Jesus comes, part of the misery through which we will need to be patient is our brethren's sin and weakness. But remembering that this comes in the providence of our greatly compassionate and merciful God is how to strengthen our hearts so that we can be forgiving, rather than grumbling or bitter.
The Lord established the Israelite New Year as a commemoration of His salvation, so that they would teach that salvation to their children and live their whole lives in response to it.
The Triune God who planned our salvation from outside of time, and promised that salvation in the prophets, and accomplished that salvation in Christ, and announced that salvation by His Spirit in the apostles, is still the One applying that salvation through the apostolic witness.
Unbelievers' works cannot please God precisely because they are unbelievers. And, they cannot make them more fit for grace, because their works all deserve wrath.
Some mouths want to boast over evil, and others want to boast in the Lord, and the Lord will speak out in order to silence the former and fulfill the desires of the latter.
Just how generous was God's offer to Solomon- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 3-1-15 prepares us for the first serial reading in Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God chose to meet Solomon in the midst of the one thing in which He said that Solomon was NOT--- loving Him. Not only did God heap up gifts in addition to wisdom, but the first part of the wisdom that He gave Solomon was in granting him repentance from the manmade worship at Gibeon.
By the plagues and the exodus, the LORD showed Himself generous, faithful, honoring, personal, dreadful, distinction-making, and powerful.
As the salvation of Jesus Christ continues to be applied to all for whom He died, it is still Jesus Who is working and teaching by His Spirit.
How does the Lord support the simple, blessed command to -Fear Not-- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Isaiah 43-1-7 prepares us for the opening portion of Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us to dwell upon the Lord's creating us for Himself, calling us to Himself, companionship to us Himself, and completing His work in us.
Good works cannot be meritorious, but they are done in Christ, and rewarded for His own worthiness
The main point of our praise unto God ought to be His promised and fulfilled salvation through Christ.
At what do the neighbors marvel, and at what does Spirit-filled Zacharias marvel- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 1-57-80 prepares us for the sermon in Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-four verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us to marvel at our God's faithfulness in making and keeping promises of salvation, power in reversing all of the work of the enemy, and tender love in saving us by coming Himself and taking us for Himself.
How should believers respond, when their new life in Christ makes an uncomfortable contrast with those around them- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Ephesians 5-8-14 prepares us for the second reading in Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the LORD hasn't just brought us from darkness into light but transformed us from being darkness into being light. This makes for tension with those who are still darkness, so let us seek what is acceptable to the Lord Who is our Life, and find increasingly comfortable our increasing fellowship with Him. Then we will not be distressed by the tension that exposes the darkness around us and will increasingly hope that He uses us to increase His light in the world.
How can those who enjoy created things more than the Creator be trained to delight in Him- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Isaiah 58-13-14 prepares us for the opening portion of Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these two verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the LORD has given His holy day as a gift by which He trains our hearts to delight in Him Himself above all. He reserves for Himself the honor of making a day holy or making a day honorable- and, He reserves for Himself the prerogative of deciding what we should find enjoyable on that day- because, He alone has the ability to train our hearts to delight in Him. And this enjoyment of Him is the greatest gift any of us can ever receive-which we gift we reject if we dishonor Him by altering His design for the day or coming up with our own religious days.
Pastor leads his family in a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those whose hearts are closed to the poor have the ears of God closed to their prayers. Pastor teaches his children why this is so- believers have been brought to God to know that their own purpose, and the purpose of all that they have, is the service and enjoyment of God Himself. Since Christ Himself in our place is the only reason our prayers can be favorably heard, if we bear symptoms of being outside of Christ, we should expect that our prayers are not favorably heard-however much God's providence might correspond to what we wanted.
God's purpose for Israel's prolonged persecution was that they might know Him and tell their children of His great salvation. So also, for believers, in all our prolonged troubles the Lord is making us more to know Him and to tell our children His greatness and the greatness of His salvation.
Good works cannot be meritorious, but they are done in Christ, and rewarded for His own worthiness
The God Who loves us to forgive us and produce His character in us will vindicate that love for us and that godly character in us by turning our mourning into joy and avenging us.
Because our hope is in a resurrected, ascended, returning Christ, it cannot be lost or reduced.
What did the Scriptures say were necessary- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 24-44-53 prepares us for the sermon in Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twelve verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that just as necessary as Jesus's suffering and rising again from the dead is Jesus's making repentance and forgiveness to be preached in His Name to all nations.
What others intend for evil, the LORD fully repays, not only to them by subjecting them to corresponding punishment but also to us, by intending it for the greatest possible good, and accomplishing for us the greatest possible good- enjoyment of Himself
Why does King David need a human hot water bottle- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 1Kings 1-1-27 prepares us for the first serial reading in Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-seven verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that even when the kingdom is threatened from within by great weakness such as David's, or threatened from without by such strong wickedness as Adonijah's, it is invincibly preserved by God's will through God's Word.
God's hand was against Christ for our sake, to pay the infinite cost of our atonement, and Christ's sacrifice was accepted for us.
Why the extended interaction and negotiation about the site and the sacrifice- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 2Samuel 24-17-25 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God's hand was against Christ on account of our sin, that God paid an infinite cost for this sacrifice, and that God has accepted this sacrifice to remove from us our guilt and punishment and to listen to our prayers.
When a chastened sinner receives God's Word, that's grace. God provokes David to make a request known to Him about which kind of chastening to receive- so also we are urged to come with confidence to His throne of grace. Finally, God's gracious mercy relents even in the midst of chastening-something which we may hope for under any chastening, because this is the sort of God Who has taken us for Himself.
Christ, Who so desires that we would see His glory, accomplished that desire in His life by suffering and death and resurrection, and accomplishes that desire in our life by His Word, sacrament, and Spirit.
Even if good works are not used of God to silence our enemies through conversion now, they will especially shame and silence our enemies in their condemnation on the last day.
Our omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent God is always near and will always completely deliver those who are righteous before Him through faith in Christ.
What we need is to see Jesus's glory, to depend upon Jesus's glory, and for Jesus to express and exert His glory.
What is the message of the transfiguration- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 9-27-36 prepares us for the sermon in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ displays His divine glory especially in accomplishing His death and in addressing us with His Word.
Pastor leads his family in a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a great part of righteousness and godliness is preparing and disseminating wisdom for our speaking.
How do we keep from being ashamed in the last day- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 9-18-26 prepares us for the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that by living in light of the glory of Christ on the last day, we will cling to Him more than to life itself and not be ashamed of Him or His Word.
For what purpose is God -testing- Abraham- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Genesis 22-1-19 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nineteen verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God tests the faith that He has given us in order to show the fruit of it, in order to generously reward us for works His grace has given, and to use us and our works in His ongoing work.
What does it mean to -sing a new song-- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Psalm 98 prepares us for the first portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these nine verses, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we are not to sing God's songs as dead repetition, but as genuine interactions with Him, as He advances His work in redemption. In this way, His songs are new as Christ comes, and ascends, and the gospel goes forth to all the nations-even unto the last and great day, in which the creation itself will rejoice with the children of God -cf. Romans 8-18-26-.
We all deserve God's wrath-including to be given over to our sin, to be stubborn against correction, and to ignore our conscience. But God, was establishing the location of the temple and sacrifice that would look forward to the atonement of Christ.
The main thing in Christianity is not what we do but what the Lord does, and the great thing that He has done is to die for our sins, according to the Scriptures, and to be buried and to rise again the third day, according to the Scriptures.
Believers ought to be telling the gospel to others, and when they do, their good works should affirm the goodness and beauty of the gospel that they are telling.
What don't and do the Galilean women find- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 24-1-12 prepares us for the morning sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that -a- our service to the Lord often turns out to be quite different than we thought, -b- the main thing is not what we do but what the Lord does, -c- the great thing that the Lord has done is His death and resurrection, and -d- His resurrection is such a glorious work that those who begin to realize it respond with wonder and worship.
In vv1-7, David enlists help praising the Lord, recounting what the Lord has done for him.-In vv8-14, David urges other saints to trust in the Lord as he has.-In vv15-22, David assures them that his own experience has been according to the Lord's enduring character.--This week, we're considering how in addition to urging us to praise the Lord with him, David urges us to trust the Lord like he did.
What does it look like when God judges people- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 2Samuel 24-1-10 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we all deserve God's wrath-including to be given over to our sin, to be stubborn against correction, and to ignore your conscience. But God, Who was establishing the location of the temple and sacrifice that would look forward to the atonement of Christ.
For what is the apostle willing to suffer and labor so much- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Colossians 2-4-10 prepares us for the second serial reading in Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us Jesus is God- in Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge- in Him all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily- He is the head of all principality and power. Because there are false hopes for knowledge and power that threaten to divert believers' attention from Christ, he is willing endure much in order to see them steadfastly walking by faith in the same One Whom they have received as Lord.
Pastor leads his family in a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Proverbs gives us wisdom, to which we are to respond with humility and submission, in fear of the Lord.
What does Yahweh make known about Himself in the fourth plague- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 8-20-32 prepares us for the opening portion of Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our God is a God of distinctions-especially in sovereign, electing mercy.
From the women who had loved and followed Jesus all the way from Galilee, we learn that a life that is an honoring response to the crucified Christ will exhibit, among other things, perseverance, diligence, generosity, and obedience.
When good works are done by those who start out poor in spirit, it points to their Father and encourages the rest of His children. These children encourage one another by their good works precisely because they know that one another's good works come not from them but from their Father.
Why may believers rejoice in tribulation- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Romans 5-1-11 prepares us for the opening portion of Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that since our hope is in enjoying God's glory and reflecting God's glory, we must be weaned from delighting in earthly glory or reflecting earthly glory. And we rejoice in the sure love of our God even, and especially, when He uses troubles to do it.
In vv1-7, David enlists help praising the Lord, recounting what the Lord has done for him. In vv8-14, David urges other saints to trust in the Lord as he has. In vv15-22, David assures them that his own experience has been according to the Lord's enduring character. This week, we're considering the first seven verses. Believers are gladdened by praising the LORD- believers are gladdened by praying to the LORD- and, believers are gladdened by the presence of the LORD.
What are some of the benefits of the apostle's having come to know God as Triune in Christ- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Colossians 2-1-3 prepares us for the second serial reading in Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us treasuring Christ frees us to care despite the pain that comes with it, treasuring Christ knits our hearts together in love for Christ, and treasuring Christ forms the foundation of all true wisdom or knowledge.
What big lessons are there in this little account of a plague- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 8-16-19 prepares us for the first serial reading in Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us the justness of God's wrath against sin, the enormity of God's wrath against sin, the humiliation that we ought to experience over our weakness and wickedness, and the danger of being hardened by our encounters with God rather than softened by them.
The LORD Himself is the great Hero among the mighty men. His worship is our highest honor. He honors us according to His grace. And His forgiveness is our only hope
God honored Christ's crucifixion by producing a drastic change in how He was treated generally, and an outpouring of love by those who were His already, by faith, specifically. How have you responded to the crucified Christ-
Good works are produced by and in those who already possess a priceless righteousness before God in Jesus Christ. This is because they come through knowing Him, from our union with Him. In Him alone, we have everything that pertains to godliness.
What was the difference between Jesus's praying and John's- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 11-1-13 prepares us for the opening portion of Morning Public Worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us to pray in light of the fact that Christ has come, making us to know God as Father, and pouring out His Holy Spirit, so that we may be sure of the consummate fulfillment of that kingdom that has come in Him.
What does the list of David's mighty men tell us about Israel's heroes- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 2Samuel 23-8-39 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Yahweh Himself is the only true Hero of Israel, that worshiping Him is the highest of our duties, that He is gracious to honor His servants, and that His mercy and forgiveness are our only hope.
What does Christ's glory have to do with our suffering, our calling, our learning, and our effort- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Colossians 1-24-29 prepares us for the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us how Christ's exaltation in glory marvelously connects to the nitty gritty details of believers' everyday lives on earth.
In inescapable justice, the LORD sees all the wicked, and in inescapable mercy, the LORD sees all those hoping in Him.
Why a plague of frogs- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 8-1-15 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord bends all sinners' knees to Himself by humiliating them, but it is a saving mercy when behind the bent knee is a grace-softened heart that acknowledges that we ultimately belong to Him and must serve Him in all things and depend upon Him for all fruitfulness.
David's last words point us to the every-word-God's-very-own nature of the Scripture, the light-after-darkness and life-after-death reign of Christ, and the perfectly timed and executed utter burning of the wicked.
What can stave off discouragement in the sufferings of our callings- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 2Timothy 1-8-12 prepares us for the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the God Who predestined our salvation and our calling will carry us through whatever suffering He has ordained along the way. We know Him and His ability- He will keep us.
While others doubted Him because He wasn't saving Himself, Jesus was actually displaying Himself precisely by not saving Himself- By not saving Himself, He purchased and liberated an innumerable multitude of sinners who would come to saving knowledge of Him as the Christ, King, God, and Lord Who suffered the due penalty of their sins in order to bring them home to His Paradise.
In this Sabbath School class, we continued the second paragraph of WCF 16, here examining Psalm 116 and 1Peter 2 in order to understand that with good works being according to God's commandments, the best work is to obey the first Great Commandment. This means, especially, the public worship of God. How do we show thanksgiving for His mercy- By good works, and especially by the best work.
How can you go to Paradise- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Luke 23-35-46 prepares us for the morning sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that what the mockery in Luke's account all had in common was -Save Yourself.- But Jesus was showing Himself to be the Christ, the Chosen One, the King, the God and Savior- precisely by not saving Himself from the cross. To this the criminal, Christ, and the creation itself all testified.
Upon what do David's brief last words focus- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. 2Samuel 23-1-7 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us the importance of dwelling upon the divine nature of the Spirit-inspired Scriptures- the light-giving, life-giving, perfectly planned, perfectly sure, and everlastingly increasing reign of Christ- and, the sure and complete wrath of God upon the wicked.
Of all creatures, redeemed sinners have most cause to praise the Lord. He has exerted His creation-power in creating them new in Christ, and His providence rules and overrules all events for their good.
Pastor leads his family in a selection from -the Proverb of the day.- In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that what blessings the righteous have in this life bring joy because they participate in the everlasting and infinite blessedness that they have in Christ, but whatever blessing the wicked have is not even enjoyed well now, though it be the only glimmer they will ever have before going to unimaginable and unending torment.
How is Christ exalted in our lives as the redeeming God-Man- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Colossians 1-21-23 prepares us for the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is exalted in the past of our reconciliation by ending the enmity toward Him in our hearts and minds, and in the present of our reconciliation by our love for Him and pursuit of holiness, and in the future of our reconciliation by bringing us to final glory-ever and always by faith and hope in Him.
What is the LORD showing about Himself in the plague of turning water to blood- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Exodus 7-14-25 prepares us for the first serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the LORD was exalting Himself over the idols of Egypt, judging Pharaoh with perfect justness, and displaying the effectiveness of His grace in Moses.
What do cross and trial do for believers- Pastor leads his family in today's -Hopewell -Home- passage. Romans 8-18-39 prepares us for the beginning part of morning public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these twenty-two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that present sufferings keep us groaning toward that glory for which God has predestined us in love, and which He is accomplishing in that very love through even the troubles and trials.