Dwell in the Word: Recent Episodes
Pastor Mark Groen
Consider these questions while you dwell in Psalm 20:1. How does Psalm 20:7 challenge our tendency to trust in worldly powers and resources, and how can we practically shift our trust to the Lord in our daily lives?2. What does it mean to align our desires with the will of God, as mentioned in Psalm 20, and how can we discern and pursue God's will more faithfully in our personal plans and goals?3. In what ways does the victory of Jesus Christ, as the anointed one of God, provide us with confidence and hope in the face of life's challenges and uncertainties?
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
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Weekly Virtual Bulletin:http://updates.efrc.me
First Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Think about these questions as you dwell in Psalm 19:1. How does Psalm 19 demonstrate the concept of general revelation through creation, and why is this significant for our understanding of God?2. In what ways does special revelation, as described in Psalm 19, differ from general revelation, and what specific truths about God does it reveal to us?3. Why is it important for believers to desire God's law more than gold and to view it as sweeter than honey, as emphasized in Psalm 19?Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.orgPastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.meDwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.meSermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.meInstagram: http://efrc.me/instaFacebook: http://efrc.me/facebookYouTube: http://efrc.me/youtubeWeekly Virtual Bulletin: http://updates.efrc.meFirst Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Contemplate these questions as you dwell in Psalm 18:33-50:1. How does David's acknowledgment of God as his rock and fortress in Psalm 18 emphasize the importance of relying on God's strength rather than our own in times of conflict and peril?2. In Psalm 18:33-50, David contrasts gentleness and humility with the necessity of pursuing and overcoming his enemies. How does this juxtaposition help us understand the balance between trusting in God's strength and taking action in our battles?3. How does the protection and victory that God grants David in Psalm 18 foreshadow the ultimate victory of Jesus Christ over death, hell, and the devil, and what does this signify for believers today?Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.orgPastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.meDwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.meSermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.meInstagram: http://efrc.me/instaFacebook: http://efrc.me/facebookYouTube: http://efrc.me/youtubeWeekly Virtual Bulletin: http://updates.efrc.meFirst Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Think on these questions as you dwell in Psalm 18:20-32:
- How does David’s claim of righteousness and clean hands in Psalm 18:20-32 differ from a claim of sinlessness, and what context supports his assertion?2. What does Psalm 18:25-27 reveal about the character of God in relation to how He deals with the merciful, the blameless, the purified, and the crooked?3. How does David's declaration of God's unique sovereignty and power in Psalm 18:31-32 serve as a foundation for believers' confidence and strength in times of adversity?Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.orgPastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.meDwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.meSermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.meInstagram: http://efrc.me/instaFacebook: http://efrc.me/facebookYouTube: http://efrc.me/youtubeWeekly Virtual Bulletin: http://updates.efrc.meFirst Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Contemplate these questions as you dwell in Psalm 18:4-19:
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In Psalm 18:4-19, how does David describe the severity of his situation, and what emotions might these descriptions evoke in us?
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How does the imagery of God's powerful response to David's cries for help in Psalm 18 illustrate His role as a divine warrior and protector?
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How can we apply the message of Psalm 18:4-19 to our own lives, particularly in understanding the significance of Jesus' victory over death and the new life He offers us?
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta
Facebook: http://efrc.me/facebook
YouTube: http://efrc.me/youtube
Weekly Virtual Bulletin:http://updates.efrc.me
First Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Consider these questions as you dwell in Psalm 18:1-3:
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How does David's emphasis on the LORD as his source of strength and security in Psalm 18:1-3 reflect his experiences while being pursued by Saul?
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In what ways does Psalm 18:1-3 point us to the saving work of Jesus Christ, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?
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Why is it significant that the headings in Psalm 18, particularly the information above verse one, are translated from Hebrew, and what does this detail contribute to our understanding of the Psalm's context and message?
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta
Facebook: http://efrc.me/facebook
YouTube: http://efrc.me/youtube
Weekly Virtual Bulletin:http://updates.efrc.me
First Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Contemplate these questions as you dwell in Psalm 17:
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How does Psalm 17 reflect the psalmist’s confidence in God’s protection and steadfast love amidst unjust accusations and distress?
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In what ways does David’s understanding of God’s covenant faithfulness provide hope and assurance for future generations, as seen in Psalm 17?
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How does the fulfillment of God’s covenant faithfulness through Jesus Christ deepen our understanding and application of Psalm 17 in our own lives?
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta
Facebook: http://efrc.me/facebook
YouTube: http://efrc.me/youtube
Weekly Virtual Bulletin:http://updates.efrc.me
First Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Contemplate these questions as you dwell in Psalm 16:
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How does the imagery of God as a refuge in Psalm 16 provide comfort and assurance in times of trouble?
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In what ways does David's choice to seek refuge in God rather than in worldly things challenge our own daily decisions and priorities?
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How does the promise of the resurrection in Psalm 16 and its fulfillment in Jesus Christ influence our understanding of eternal hope and security?
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta
Facebook: http://efrc.me/facebook
YouTube: http://efrc.me/youtube
Weekly Virtual Bulletin:http://updates.efrc.me
First Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Contemplate these questions as you dwell in Psalm 15:
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According to Psalm 15, what characteristics must a person exhibit to dwell in the presence of the LORD, and how do these characteristics highlight our need for Jesus?
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How does Psalm 15's list of offenses we must avoid (such as slandering, doing evil to a neighbor, and taking a bribe) reflect the challenges of living a blameless life?
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In light of the human condition described in Psalm 14 and Psalm 15, how does Jesus’ perfect life and sacrifice provide us with the assurance of dwelling in God's presence?
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta
Facebook: http://efrc.me/facebook
YouTube: http://efrc.me/youtube
Weekly Virtual Bulletin:http://updates.efrc.me
First Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Contemplate these questions as you dwell in Psalm 14:
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According to Psalm 14, what does the term "fool" signify, and how does this apply to both philosophical and practical atheism?
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How does the psalmist in Psalm 14 describe the state of humanity in verses 2 and 3, and what theological truth is being highlighted by these verses?
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What is the psalmist's hope in the final verse of Psalm 14, and how does Jesus Christ fulfill this hope for God's people?
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta
Facebook: http://efrc.me/facebook
YouTube: http://efrc.me/youtube
Weekly Virtual Bulletin:http://updates.efrc.me
First Reformed is a congregation in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Psalm 13 portrays David's desperate cry to God amid difficult circumstances. Feeling forgotten and abandoned, he questions the delay of God's help. Yet, David's faith prevails, acknowledging God's steadfast love and past blessings. As we face uncertainties, we can find solace in this psalm, knowing that God's love endures. Rejoicing in our salvation through Christ, we sing praises, trusting that God is working all things together for our good and His glory.
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta
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YouTube: http://efrc.me/youtube
Weekly Virtual Bulletin: http://updates.efrc.me
Psalm 12 reveals the psalmist's distress over a world filled with deceit and lies. David seeks rescue from Yahweh, longing for the godly to prevail. He laments the prevalence of flattering lips and deception, praying for God to stop the wicked. God's response assures safety for the oppressed, for His words are pure and trustworthy. Though vileness surrounds, we must seek God's pure word to be safeguarded from the world's deception and remain faithful to Him.
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me
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Weekly Virtual Bulletin: http://updates.efrc.me
Psalm 11, attributed to David, portrays his trust in God amidst turmoil. Advised to flee by his advisors, David declares that the Lord is his refuge, questioning why he should run. As king, he faces real threats. He ponders what the righteous can do if the foundations are destroyed, affirming that God sees all. The people's response to the test is crucial. David prays for divine judgment on the wicked, believing in God's righteousness and rewards for the upright. Through Jesus, we find refuge and righteousness, secure in His salvation. Let us seek Him and trust in His promises.
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
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Weekly Virtual Bulletin: http://updates.efrc.me
Psalm 10 raises the question of why God seems distant and hidden during difficult times. The psalmist observes the wicked prospering while disregarding God's existence and oppressing the helpless. Although the psalmist believes in God's eventual judgment, it seems distant and unrelated to earthly prosperity. The psalmist prays for God to arise, bring justice, and rescue the afflicted. The psalm acknowledges God's power to save and His eternal reign, trusting that He will execute justice for the oppressed. In our present day, Jesus unlocks the psalm's meaning, assuring us that God secures salvation for the weak. We rely on Christ's throne and trust in His coming judgment to bring justice and end evil. We find comfort, knowing that God will fulfill His perfect will for our good and His glory.
Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
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Weekly Virtual Bulletin: http://updates.efrc.me
The connection between praise and God's deeds is evident in Psalm 9. David recounts the wonderful acts of the LORD, acknowledging His faithfulness not only to him as king but to the people of God. David focuses on God's judgment, as enemies stumble and perish in His presence, their names blotted out forever. In contrast, the LORD sits enthroned forever, ruling with justice and righteousness. God is a stronghold for the oppressed, unlike human rulers who oppress the weak. Therefore, praises are to be sung, serving as a witness to the nations about the LORD's deeds. David acknowledges his need for God's help and calls for justice and protection. He appeals for the nations to be humbled, recognizing their inferiority before God. This psalm reminds us of our place, surrendering control to God, who acts righteously and justly. With Jesus seated on the throne, having conquered sin and death, we can have confidence in His righteous judgment. He is our stronghold and does not forsake those who trust in Him.
Edgerton First Reformed
Pastor Mark Groen
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Psalm 8 is a familiar and beloved psalm of praise that expresses awe and wonder at the glory of God. The psalmist acknowledges the majesty of God's name and the splendor of His creation. The phrase "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth" is a statement of praise and recognition of God's greatness. The psalmist contemplates the vastness of the heavens and the insignificance of humanity in comparison. Yet, despite our smallness, God has bestowed glory and honor upon humans, crowning them with dignity. This psalm reminds us of our purpose to bring glory to God and enjoy a relationship with Him forever. Through Christ's sacrifice, we find our significance and value, as we are rescued and redeemed to glorify God and delight in Him eternally. As we go out into the world, may Psalm 8 resonate in our hearts, proclaiming the majesty and glory of almighty God.
Edgerton First Reformed: https://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: https://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: https://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
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In Psalm 7, David declares his refuge in the LORD amidst the challenges he faces as the anointed king of Israel. Rather than relying on earthly armies and military strength, David puts his trust in God. He recognizes God as his fortress and the one who will deliver him from the various difficulties he encounters. David vividly portrays the seriousness of the situation, fearing that if God does not shelter him, he will be torn apart by his enemies. However, David asserts his innocence and appeals to God's righteous judgment. He acknowledges that God is the ultimate arbiter of guilt and confidently places his fate in God's hands. David acknowledges God as his shield and praises Him for His righteousness. The psalm contrasts the justice God brings with the wickedness of those who accuse David. Ultimately, David gives thanks and sings praises to the LORD. As Christians, we know Jesus as the ultimate source of defense and righteousness for us today. In Christ, we find refuge and assurance, knowing that He defends us and provides us with His perfect righteousness.
Edgerton First Reformed: https://edgertonfrc.org
Pastor Mark Groen: https://markgroen.me
Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: https://dwellpodcast.efrc.me
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In Psalm 6, the writer finds themselves in a desperate and troubled state. They express their anguish and plead for God's grace and deliverance. The psalmist wonders how long their suffering will continue, feeling deep physical and emotional pain. They implore God to turn back towards them, reminding Him of His steadfast love and promises to His people. Grief consumes the psalmist, causing tears and weariness. However, amidst the sorrow, the psalmist expresses confidence that God has heard their pleas and will answer. They believe that their enemies will be put to shame, for God is faithful and will show favor to His people. The psalmist's trust in God's steadfast love remains unwavering. As believers, we can also approach God with confidence, knowing that our prayers are heard through the intercession of Christ. We can find peace in His answers and trust in His sovereign will.
Edgerton First Reformed
Pastor Mark Groen
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In this episode, we explore Psalm 5 and its themes of crying out to God, seeking justice, and finding refuge in Him. While the book of Psalms is known for its praises, it also contains heartfelt pleas and prayers. Here in Psalm 5 we see David express his dependence on God and he contrasts himself with his wicked enemies. David calls for justice to be done according to God's standards, acknowledging that the righteous find refuge in God's protection. We close up connecting these themes to the person of Christ, highlighting his perfect righteousness and the victory he has won. Through faith in Christ, believers can experience the covering of their sins and find refuge in Him. As God’s servants we are to serve God in humility and faith, recognizing Christ as the key to understanding and applying the Psalms.
Edgerton First Reformed
Pastor Mark Groen
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We dive into the fourth chapter of the Psalter, where the Psalmist once again cries out for help from God. The Psalmist acknowledges that God is the source of his righteousness and has answered his prayers in the past. There is a plea for God's grace and an understanding that God listens to the prayers of His people, despite their unworthiness. The Psalmist recognizes that God sets apart his people, making them holy, and he cares for them. Instead of responding with anger or taking matters into our own hands, this Psalm encourages viewers to trust in God and seek peace. As believers we trust God's sovereignty and find safety in Him alone. As application for us today, we close with the peace that faith in Christ offers to us. Through Him, believers find eternal safety and can trust in God's protection.
Edgerton First Reformed
Pastor Mark Groen
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Psalm 3 presents a different tone compared to the previous psalms. David, facing difficult circumstances, cries out to God when he fled from his son Absalom. Despite the opposition and mocking from his foes, David places his hope and trust in God. He recognizes that God is his shield, protector, and the lifter of his head. David finds solace in God's ability to rescue and sustain him, even in the midst of adversity. He demonstrates unwavering faith, refusing to believe the accusations of his enemies. Instead, he relies on God's promises and character. David's trust in God allows him to rest and sleep peacefully. He acknowledges God's sovereignty and protection, declaring that he will not fear the multitude of people against him. He calls on God to save him, knowing that God has the power to defeat his enemies. David concludes by acknowledging that salvation belongs to the Lord and that his blessing is upon his people. As believers in Christ, we can also find comfort and assurance in God's victory over sin and the challenges we face. We can trust in God's protection, rest in His sustaining power, and confidently proclaim that salvation belongs to the Lord.
Edgerton First Reformed
Pastor Mark Groen
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In this episode we delve into the profound insights of Psalm 2, building upon what we saw in Psalm 1. There we found that the blessed one spoken of in Psalm 1, ultimately points to Jesus and is Jesus who unlocks the deeper meaning of the Psalms for us.
Psalm 2 raises the question of why nations and people conspire against God and His anointed one, challenging their opposition to the Messiah. We explore the futility of plotting against God, emphasizing His unrivaled power and victory. We also see that the Hebrew word for "plot," which echoes the word "meditate" in Psalm 1, suggests that deliberate contemplation of God's word is essential. Psalm 2 unveils a messianic prophecy, revealing Jesus as the Anointed One who reigns over all nations. It emphasizes the universal reach of God's salvation, encompassing both Hebrews and Gentiles. Pastor Mark concludes with an exhortation to serve God, find refuge in Jesus, and live according to His word, avoiding opposition and embracing blessings through faith in the Savior, the Blessed One who won victory for his people.
Edgerton First Reformed
Pastor Mark Groen
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In Psalm 1, the blessed man is described as one who avoids the counsel of the wicked, the path of sinners, and the company of scoffers. However, there is also an active element to his blessedness. He delights in God's law and meditates on it day and night. Biblical meditation is not passive, but rather intentional and immersive. The result of this active engagement with God's word is depicted as a flourishing tree planted by streams of water, bearing fruit and never withering. In contrast, the wicked are like worthless chaff blown away by the wind. The psalmist emphasizes that the wicked will not stand in judgment or among the righteous, while the Lord knows the way of the righteous. The psalm points to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the blessed man, who accomplished what we cannot on our own. Through faith in Jesus, we can live in freedom, knowing that he has rescued us and given us the gift of salvation. By looking to Jesus and delighting in God's law, we can live a life that brings glory to God.
Edgerton First Reformed
Pastor Mark Groen
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The passage today is Isaiah 66:15-24.
Reminder this is our last episode until we start up in the Psalms on May 31.
Today's passage for Dwell in the Word is Isaiah 65:17-25.
Starting May 31 we will be returning to the Psalms. Don't miss out on your chance to win an ESV Scripture Journal of the Psalms. Check our Facebook feed for how to win this fantastic resource!
The passage for today is Isaiah 65:1-16.
Due to the Presbytery meeting there will not be another Dwell in the Word until next week. See you then!
With much improved audio, Dwell in the Word returns as we take a look at Isaiah 21:1-17.
After a few weeks off we come back to the book of Isaiah and we are taking a look at Isaiah 18:1-7.
The reading for today is Jonah 3:1-10.
Note: There will be no Dwell in the Word next week due to Mark being gone on the mission trip.
Today we begin Paul's letter to the churches in Galatia by taking a look at Galatians 1:1-10.
Today on Dwell in the Word we finish up the 15th chapter of Acts as we dig into Acts 15:22-41.
Today we finish up 1 Corinthians with chapter 16. We will move to the book of Acts on Monday.
The passage for today’s Dwell in the Word is 1 Corinthians 2:6-16. For more information on Edgerton First Reformed go to our website.
The reading for today’s Dwell in the Word is Mark 5:1-20. Thank you for listening to the audio version. You can watch the video version at our Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.
The reading for today is Mark 4:30-34. For more information on Dwell in the Word and Edgerton First Reformed check out our website.
The reading for today’s Dwell in the Word is from chapter 4 verses 10-20 of the Gospel of Mark. Thank you for listening.
The reading for today’s Dwell in the Word is from Mark 4:1-9. Thank you for listening. You can find more information about Edgerton First Reformed at our website.
The reading for today’s Dwell in the Word is from Mark 3:22-30. Thank you for listening. For more information on Edgerton First Reformed navigate your web browser to our website.
The reading for today’s Dwell in the Word is Mark 3:13-21. You can find more information about First Reformed Edgerton at our website. Thank you for listening.
The reading today’s Dwell in the Word is from Mark 3:1-12. You can find more information about Edgerton First Reformed Church at our website. Thank you for listening.
The reading for today is from Mark 1:40-45. For more information on Dwell in the Word and First Reformed Church in Edgerton, visit our website.
Welcome to Dwell in the Word. New episodes will be posted every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday starting on January 25, 2021.