EBC Elkhorn: Recent Episodes
Emmanuel Baptist Church
Wisdom is fundamental to creation, indispensable to God, and life-giving to mankind. Since wisdom is the key to all success, we must choose righteousness and wisdom above all, giving up pride, self-determination, and the desire for worldly wealth and fame.
Wisdom gives herself to any and all who seek her, rewarding the godly with blessings. Since wisdom is the key to all success, we must choose righteousness and wisdom above all, giving up pride, self-determination, and the desire for worldly wealth and fame.
Young men are particularly vulnerable to sexual temptation, but wisdom will protect them. Since sexual immorality leads to death and personal destruction, we must give ourselves wholly to wisdom as our prized possession, fearing Yahweh above all to guard us from evil.
Wisdom will protect you from harm, but the fool stupidly destroys his own life. Pride makes us odious to God and subject to society’s ridicule, therefore we must humbly accept rebuke and keep our parents’ commandments to escape sin’s devastating end.
Wisdom calls the young man to sexual fidelity by avoiding the house of immorality. Since God intended sex to bring satisfaction and refreshing in the covenant bond of marriage, we must value wisdom and discretion above momentary pleasures.
The father wisely appeals to his son to choose the way of the righteous, which is a path of light and life instead of the way of evil, which is shrouded in deep darkness and leads to death.
We all need something to live for, and wisdom presents itself as a worthwhile pursuit. She does not give herself up for anything less than our entire lives, but she offers the promise of the good life to anyone who receives her.
Wisdom is available to all but yields its benefits only through a lifetime of diligent pursuit. Since wisdom is God's gift to his holy ones, we must humbly approach him in submission to receive the abundant store of protective insight.
Wisdom is available to any who hear and submit to correction while there is still time. Since our hearts are naturally sinful and stubborn, we must humble ourselves and choose to fear the Lord or we will taste the fruit of sin and its self-destructive consequences.
The fear of Yahweh is the basis for the pursuit of wisdom,discipline, and insight. Since wisdom presupposes a heart-attitude of submission and obedience to the Lord, we must humble ourselves and come to him in faith to understand the way his world works.
God is glorified by his Son’s obedience and his disciples’perseverance in faith and love. Since Jesus has returned to his former glory and sent his disciples to the world in his place, we must live as those who are convinced of his authority, love, and truthfulness.
Jesus’ coming death and resurrection signal the coming of a new era of joy and peace. Since Jesus has conquered the world by his death and resurrection, we should believe in him to enjoy true fellowship with God, knowledge of the truth, and peace in troubled times.
The Spirit has come in Jesus’ place to complete his work in the disciples and the world. Since Jesus is no longer physically present with his disciples, we must yield to the work of the Spirit who fulfills all that Christ said he would do.
Disciples receive life from the Son, bear fruit through suffering, and share in God’s glory. Since Jesus is our life as believers, we must constantly depend on him for to love one another and accept rejection and hatred as his spokesmen to this lost and dying world.
Believers must live in dependence on the Son for life and fruitfulness to bring God glory. Since Jesus is the only source of spiritual vitality, we must continue to rely on him for life and strength to obey his command to love other believers.
Jesus declared his divine authority and promised his lasting presence with his disciples. By submitting to his authority and obeying his will in making disciples, we find and fulfill life's true purpose.
Jesus answered his disciples’ questions with promises of fellowship with the Father. Since Jesus promised that his disciples will share in fellowship with the Father, we ought to rejoice in his finished work and the peace which he gives by his Holy Spirit.
Jesus answered his disciples’ questions with promises of fellowship with the Father. Since Jesus is one with the Father and the Spirit, we should pray confidently, believing that he will hear and answer by giving us a fuller experience of his presence and power.
In the face of his betrayer and soon approaching death, Christ comforts his disciples. Since Jesus is the sovereign Lord, the model of loving service, and has promised to return for his disciples, we ought to rest in hope and confidence rather than fear.
Jesus humbled himself to save and serve his disciples, teaching them to do the same. Since Jesus came as a servant, his disciples must become servants who have received cleansing from our sins and be regularly washed from the filth of this world.
Jacob had to wait in faith while Esau enjoyed immediate blessings and favor. Since the Lord works his purposes according to his own time, we must learn to look in faith and not judge by outward appearances of success.
The history of Isaac comes to an end with Jacob’s dedication to God in spite of difficulties. Since the Lord is holy and righteous, we must commit ourselves to pure and loyal worship out of true devotion and trust him to keep his promises.
Jacob’s failure to obey God put his family at risk and created a legacy of evil. To love the world is to be an enemy of God, so we must warn the simple about its dangers and learn from those who have failed to walk in the grace of the Lord.
Jacob and Esau were reconciled by grace in spite of Jacob’s weak and faltering faith. Since the Lord has proven himself faithful, we must rest on his grace instead of trying to take care of things for ourselves, knowing that he will do what he has promised.
With his brother coming in force and resources exhausted, Jacob is forced to cling to God. Since God may only be approached through his gracious self-disclosure and never via religious gifts or acts of service, we must come humbly to receive his merciful blessing.
Jacob and Laban go their separate ways, overseen by God’s power and purpose. Since the Lord by providence guides and guards his chosen ones, we must learn to trust him and respond in faith to his promises rather than depend on our own cunning.
God’s people sing his praises for destroying the oppressors and delivering the oppressed. Since Christ has come and finished his work on the cross, believers know that he will fulfill all the Father has said, and so we must wait in fear, joy, and hope.
Jacob’s house is blessed with wealth in spite of Laban’s trickery and Jacob’s self-reliance. Since the Lord rules over the world and gives material blessings as he pleases, we must learn to trust him and act in good faith rather than using devious means to gain the advantage.
God, faithful to his promise at Bethel, gave many sons to Jacob’s dysfunctional home. Since the Lord is gracious, we must keep confidence in him to fulfill his word in spite of our weaknesses and failings, while we seek to build our homes in biblical truth and wisdom.
Godliness flows from a true confession about the person and work of Jesus Christ. Since we cannot become godly by mere effort or adopting a new ethical standard, we must confess Jesus as Lord and proclaim the good news of his grace to all nations.
Christians must live as members of one body, an impossible task if not for God’s grace. Since we have received God’s grace so abundantly, the indwelling Spirit, and the body of faith, we must learn to walk in new life in light of our shared identity in Christ.
Jacob found family at Padan Aram and was made to face the consequences of his sin. Since the Lord upholds the law of sowing and reaping, both in the natural and the spiritual realms, we must seek his grace and receive discipline, believing it is for our good.
The Lord appears to Jacob in a dream affirming covenant promises to come only by grace. Since God’s covenant plan operates on the basis of grace rather than works, we must learn to trust his word and depend on his strength to do all he has said.
Isaac’s family tried their best to circumvent God’s plan, yet he graciously overruled. Since the Lord will accomplish his purpose in our lives, we ought to surrender to him rather than oppose him and suffer the negative effects of our rebellion.
God is light without any darkness; we can have fellowship with him only through his Son. Since the Lord is pure and holy, we cannot have fellowship with him if we deny our sin and need of salvation through the blood of Jesus.
Isaac’s family sought to secure God’s blessing by their ownmeans, but the Lord overruled. Since God guarantees his plans and purposes in this world, we must learn to trust him to overcome our own sinful failures and the hatred and opposition of others.
Isaac had to learn the lessons of his father to become the pilgrimGod had called him to be. Since the Lord is gracious and kind to bring his children on to maturity, we must yield to his guiding hand as he uses crises to free us from dependence on the world.
Isaac and Rebekah had faith in God’s provision, while their sonstrusted in themselves. Since the Lord is sovereign, wise, and faithful, we must rely on him in prayer instead of taking matters into our own hands and making decisions based on what our eyes can see.
Baptism and the Supper display the inward realities of faith andfellowship in Christ. Since Jesus is the Christ of God we must believe on him and receive his Spirit, identifying with him in baptism and the ongoing fellowship of the body including the Lord’s Supper.
Abraham left a legacy of faith for all his sons who saw God’s wordmeticulously fulfilled. Since the Lord is faithful and true to his word, we must rely on his promises more than ourselves and seek to leave a legacy of hope in his word to our children and beyond.
God provided a wife for Isaac to fulfill his covenant oath and show kindness to Abraham. Since the Lord is sovereign and good, we must trust him not to turn back but to give guidance as we follow him in submission and worship.
Abraham mourned Sarah, yet clung to hope in God’s promise of theland of Canaan. Since we, like Sarah and Abraham, have received promises which are left unfulfilled at the end of this life, we must trust God in mourning and as we face our own expected end.
Noah believed the warning of judgment and gave evidence by obeying God’s command. Since God has promised judgment to come for the whole world, we must repent and believe, seeking to be holy, consider God’s mercy, and guard ourselves from falling away.
Abraham offered his son Isaac as a burnt offering until the Lord gave a ram as a substitute. Since the Lord is good and faithful, we must be willing to sacrifice those things most precious to us including loved ones, trusting him to do good and keep his promises.
God is most glorified when believers pray and love in light of Christ’s soon appearing. Since the end which God has promised is fast approaching, we must commit to faithful prayer and fervent love, demonstrated by our hospitality and service to one another, in order to bring glory to God through Christ.
Abraham sent Ishmael away to protect the covenant promises for Isaac, yet the Lord blessed him on account of his father.
Christians ought to encourage each other in the face of death with the hope of eternal life. Since God raised up Jesus from the dead and has promised to raise all believers at his coming, we should be hopeful and share comfort as we wait for the day to arrive.
God accepts and forgives repentant sinners and expects us to be reconciled together. Since the Lord receives sinners who confess their sins and cry out with broken hearts, we should receive them also, seeking to be reconciled ourselves when we have sinned.
Romans 6:1-11 & 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Believers are to consider themselves alive with Christ and ambassadors to the world. Since we were united with Christ in his death and resurrection, we should live apart from sin and unto God and serve as his ambassadors to the world, pleading with men to be saved.
Believers must seek to be unified by thinking of others with a humble attitude. Since God has brought us salvation by his grace and wisdom, we ought to renew our minds by focusing on others in the body of Christ and cultivating a spirit of humility.
To follow Christ means yielding our very selves to him and hoping in his coming in grace. Since the Christian hope is found in our Lord’s return in power, we must look with longing for the day of the redemption of our bodies not demand affirmation of our brokenness.
The apostle Paul warns the Corinthians believers that all who cling to their sins instead of turning to Christ will be excluded from God's kingdom.
Instead of believing God and accepting his good order, man has exchanged God's glory for idolatry and the natural order of sexual relations for unnatural ones.
God punished wicked Sodom but rescued Lot, through he took Sodom’s values with him. Since the world is headed for judgment, we must guard our affections from evil influences and pattern ourselves and our families after righteousness.
The Lord revealed to Abraham his plan to judge Sodom in righteousness and mercy. Since God is the righteous Judge we can trust him to justly separate the upright and the wicked and teach others to fear and obey him, while we intercede with him for mercy.
The Lord came to fellowship with Abraham and to call Sarah to personal faith in his oath. Since the Lord desires to commune with his people, and nothing he wills to do is beyond his power or wisdom, we ought to believe his word, no matter how extraordinary it is.
Abram and Sarai schemed and brought themselves much grief, but God is faithful. Since the Lord is faithful, we must learn to trust him when the answer is not forthcoming, and reject the world’s ways which lead to pain and sorrow.
Jesus’ resurrection ushered in the last days, displayed God’s power, and gave us the Spirit. Since Jesus’ resurrection is the watershed moment of history, we ought to live today with a sense of expectation, hope in heaven’s power, and intentional submission to the Spirit.
Yahweh demonstrates that he can be trusted by swearing an oath to Abram to do all he has promised.
Having won a great victory, Abram faced the temptation to embrace worldly rewards instead of trusting God for heavenly ones.
The ministry of counseling is for all believers as they grow in spiritual maturity and grace.
Abram demonstrated faith in God's promises, while Lot judged only by what he could see and chose foolishly.
Abram & Sarai faced the challenge of a famine in the land of Canaan, but fear drove them to rely on deception rather than the God who had promised them a posterity.
A panel composed of David & Casey Stertz, Jeremy & Amber Shaeffer, and Paul & Pauletta Vawter discussing adoption, foster care, and associated ministries at the 2023 WFBC Pastors and Wives Retreat.
It is one thing to publicly proclaim the Lordship of Jesus Christ, but it is another to follow him and value the glory of God above even one's own life.
Paul addressed the Corinthians' lack of concern for others, especially slaves and the poor.
When Jesus found his friend Lazarus was sick and dying, he recognized it as an opportunity to strengthen his disciples' faith.
When confronted by the unbelieving Pharisees, Jesus revealed that they did not believe, because they were not his sheep.
Jesus healed a blind man, exposing the spiritual blindness and self-deception of the Pharisees.
Jesus confounded the Pharisees with his statements about himself, climaxing in the revelation of his eternal existence as God.
The Jewish leaders saw Jesus as a threat to their influence and position, while the crowds were confused about his claims. While some believed he was the Christ, others had expectations of Messiah which Jesus failed to meet, and as a result were disappointed.
When Jesus went to Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles his encounters with the Jews revealed the insincerity of their judgment and search for the truth.
The gospel presents us with unique temptations to turn away from Jesus. We must keep our eyes on him so that we do not fall away.
Speaker: Nathan Harris The purpose and mission of the church help us understand our responsibility toward one another.
Jesus is the bread of life. All who believe on him have eternal life, and those who reject him do not have life but come under God's judgment.
Jesus fed the multitude then walked on water to comfort his disciples, yet all the crowds could think about was the bread he multiplied. Since Jesus' works demonstrate that he is indeed the Son of God sent down from heaven, we ought to believe on him for eternal life rather than looking for material and present blessings.
Jesus not only claimed to be the Son of God sent down from heaven, he provided evidence to verify his identity. Since God's word demonstrates conclusively that Jesus is the Messiah, we must commit ourselves to him, believing that he is who he claimed to be and that he does indeed give life to all who trust in him.
Special Guest: Pastor Jim Stevens from Faith Baptist of Oconomowoc, WI shares how God's word is able to set you free from addiction and besetting sin.
This is part 3 of a 3-part series.
Special Guest: Pastor Jim Stevens from Faith Baptist of Oconomowoc, WI shares how God's word is able to set you free from addiction and besetting sin.
This is part 2 of a 3-part series.
Special Guest: Pastor Jim Stevens from Faith Baptist of Oconomowoc, WI shares how God's word is able to set you free from addiction and besetting sin.
This is part 1 of a 3-part series.
Jesus' mission to Samaria went beyond just the woman at the well to include the entire town of Sychar.
Jesus recognized a Samaritan woman's spiritual thirst and offered her life if she trusted in him. Since our souls are made to thirst for something greater than what we find in this world, we must come to recognize the depth of our need and the abundance of God's gracious supply, come to Jesus in faith, and receive living water.
John’s testimony was meant to point to Jesus, so that all would believe him and his words. Since Jesus is the One who came down from heaven and testifies the truth concerning God the Father, we must believe on him by heeding his words to have eternal life.
Jesus distinguished sincere faith from insincere by its spiritual source and power. Since genuine saving faith is a spiritual rather than merely intellectual experience, we must believe on Jesus, confess our true selves to him, and be born by his Spirit.
Jesus cleansed the Court of the Gentiles in the Temple in Jerusalem, proving he was Messiah, then he promised a greater sign to follow. Since Jesus has been revealed as the promised OT Messiah, King, and Savior, we must believe the Scriptures and his testimony with all our hearts, even if we do not yet fully understand all things.
Jesus' sign at the Cana wedding confirmed his Messianic claims and inspired faith. Since Jesus is the one who fulfills all Old Testament expectations and more besides, we ought to recognize his glory and believe on him.
John testified that Jesus was the sin-bearing Lamb so they we would believe and follow him. Since Jesus is the only One who could bear our sins away through his bloody death, we must come to him, believing the witness to the truth, and receive new life by his Spirit.
John testified that Jesus was the sin-bearing Lamb so that we would believe and follow him. Since Jesus is the only one who could bear our sins away through his bloody death, we must bear witness of him to others, patiently and humbly inviting others to meet Jesus.
The Word in flesh reveals the Father's glory to men who will receive him. Since the Word has come in the flesh in the person of Jesus, we must recognize the glory of Almighty God and humble ourselves or fail to achieve our purpose.
Jesus is eternally God, the Creator of all things, the Source of life and light, who was rejected by men. However, anyone who believes on him may become a child of God.
In Shem's genealogy Yahweh guided history to fulfill his purpose and promised end. Since mankind is totally rebellious and unreformable, it rests solely on God to bring about salvation through redemption, and we must trust him and wait for his timing and will.
At Babel mankind arrogantly resisted God and was divided by his judgment. Since pride is a constant temptation to all men, we must humble ourselves before God, recognizing his past judgments and his preventing mercy.
Jesus is the one-of-a-kind subject of the gospel, the Savior and Redeemer of mankind. Since Jesus is unique, the only God-man, the only one whose body and blood could serve as a sacrificial substitute for our sins, we must trust him for forgiveness and eternal life.
Jesus is the Holy Creator and King who deserves our worship, devotion, and praise. Since Jesus demonstrated his royal authority in the triumphal entry on Palm Sunday, we ought to bow our hearts to him in humble submission and trust him to lead us to the Father.
The actions of Noah’s family after the flood prove that nothing but Christ can truly save. Since even the most grievous form of judgment cannot remove sin from the human heart, we must seek Christ and his saving grace to deliver us from ourselves.
Following the great devastation of life in the flood, God reasserts his ownership of all life. Since all life belongs to God, and he has made his covenant with all living things, we must seek to preserve and value life, trusting in the Lord to preserve the creation.
God gave rest to Noah and his family after the flood and then to the whole earth. Since true and lasting rest is available only in relationship with God, we must seek to have fellowship with him and worship him, trusting him to be faithful to keep his promises.
Noah and his family were delivered inside the ark, while all outside were destroyed. Since salvation is offered to all who will trust in God’s word about sin and judgment, we must rely on his gracious provision and care.
God’s grace was evident in Noah’s life, leading him to obey God’s word and save life. Since grace alone saves, we must seek God’s favor to separate us from the unbelieving world, hear his warning of judgment, and obey his commands which result in salvation.
Lamech’s hope for relief is met by Yahweh’s righteous wrath at the pervasive evil in man. Since sin has spread to every corner of mankind and touches every part of us, we must find grace in God’s sight in order to escape the terrible but necessary judgment to come.
All of Adam’s generations died except one who receives God’s grace. Since death is certain apart from divine intervention, we ought to seek to walk in fellowship with God and find hope in the promise of future deliverance for us and for the world.
Apart from God man achieves some measure of success, but it always tends to corruption. Since the pursuit of human progress in a godless society leads to perversion and violence, we must rightly orient our priorities by calling on the name of Yahweh.
Cain, choosing to lean on his own self, exposed himself to and became the servant of sin. Since sin is ever-seeking to enslave us, we must heed the warning voice of God’s word and receive his grace to forgive, rather than go our own way leading to destruction.
Cain, choosing to lean on his own self, exposed himself to and became the servant of sin. Since sin is ever seeking to enslave us, we must heed the warning voice of God’s word and receive his grace to forgive, rather than go our own way leading to destruction.
The promise of a serpent-crushing Seed is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Since we are helpless to fix the mess that sin has caused in ourselves and the world, we must trust in God’s promise of a Savior who is the Seed of the woman.
Man’s rebellion and sin brings devastating consequences on his posterity and all creation. Since God demonstrates mercy even in judgment, we must humble ourselves and seek his way of repentance and forgiveness rather than our own.
The Son of God suffered throughout his incarnation making him a perfect high priest. Since Jesus experienced humiliation and the whole gamut of suffering and temptation, we ought to come boldly to God for comfort and grace from one who understands our need.
The Son of God suffered throughout his incarnation making him a perfect high priest. Since Jesus experienced humiliation and the whole gamut of suffering and temptation, we ought to come boldly to God for comfort and grace from one who understands our need.
The Son of God suffered throughout his incarnation making him a perfect high priest. Since Jesus experienced humiliation and the whole gamut of suffering and temptation, we ought to come boldly to God for comfort and grace from one who understands our need.
The Son of God suffered throughout his incarnation making him a perfect high priest. Since Jesus experienced humiliation and the whole gamut of suffering and temptation, we ought to come boldly to God for comfort and grace from one who understands our need.
The Son of God suffered throughout his incarnation making him a perfect high priest. Since Jesus experienced humiliation and the whole gamut of suffering and temptation, we ought to come boldly to God for comfort and grace from one who understands our need.
The Son of God suffered throughout his incarnation making him a perfect high priest. Since Jesus experienced humiliation and the whole gamut of suffering and temptation, we ought to come boldly to God for comfort and grace from one who understands our need.
It is not fitting for a believer to be always at odds with others and envious of their success. Since we have crucified our flesh when we trusted in Christ, we must live according to that truth, keeping in step with the Spirit and refusing abrasive arrogance.
God rules over ordinary human affairs to comfort sufferers and accomplish his plan. Since the Lord works in every circumstances through human means, we must trust his good wisdom and care and seek to follow him in obedience and wise choices.
Daniel suffered greatly, yet found God’s grace abounding throughout his time of captivity. Since the Lord remains in control of our lives and world events, we must trust ourselves to his care, depend on him through prayer, and boldly speak the truth no matter the cost.
Being slaves of one another is Christian freedom and fulfills our whole obligation to God. Since Jesus has set us free from sin’s bondage, we must not return to slavery to our flesh by making self-serving demands of others and attacking those who disagree but serve in love.
For Christians suffering is always purposeful, according to God’s will rather than chance. Since suffering and affliction are always refining rather than ruinous for the believer, we must continually commit our souls to God for safekeeping and keep on doing good.
For the Christian suffering is God’s appointed means of training in righteousness. Since we know that God intends suffering to discipline us for good and not evil, we must endure it patiently, seeking to grow in righteousness and true holiness.
God gives comfort equal to his servants’ afflictions for his own glory and their good. Since suffering is always accompanied by divine comfort, we ought to share comfort with others, and embrace suffering as a way to learn to trust in God and minister in prayer.
Suffering teaches us to hope for future glory and rely on the saving love of our Lord Jesus. Since we will suffer before we are glorified with Christ, we must learn to wait patiently for our redemption, make use of the Spirit’s help, and trust in the loving wisdom of God.
God introduced suffering as judgment for sin and will eradicate all suffering for believers. Since suffering in the present time is just punishment for mankind’s rebellion, we ought to turn to the Lord for mercy and grace to endure and give meaning to our pain.
People are often untrustworthy, yet the Lord remains faithful to death and beyond. Since the Lord is to be trusted to judge the wicked and reward the faithful, we must strive to be faithful, show mercy to those who fail, and love our fellow servants of Christ.
The mission is not finished until our lives are completely poured out for Christ. Since God’s word is sufficient to equip us for life and ministry, we must use it to complete the task that Christ has given without regard for difficulties, hoping for his reward.
As the professing church embraces worldliness, God’s people cling to his enduring word. Since the Scriptures are breathed out by God and able to equip us for full obedience, we must hold firmly to them in the face of the increasing apostasy that abounds in our day.
United in Christ believers can withstand persecution and suffering for the gospel’s sake. Since we enjoy the benefits of union with Christ, we ought to act accordingly, living together with single-minded devotion to the mission of truth and selfless service to one another.
Satan opposes evangelism and discipleship, but God’s sovereign plan will still succeed. Since the Lord warns us concerning the devil’s attacks, we must prepare to face them by his grace by separating ourselves from evil influences and pursuing godliness with his people.
Timothy must expect to suffer for the gospel and focus on taking the gospel to God’s elect. Since the gospel must be preached for God’s chosen ones to be saved, we must embrace suffering as the means to fulfill our commission and receive our hoped-for reward.
The gospel is a treasure best guarded by being passed to men of courage and faithfulness. Since the gospel is worth suffering for, we must make it our goal to remain faithful to it by God’s grace, following the example of others who are not ashamed of Christ.
Genuine faith leads us to rely on God’s grace for our salvation and service. Since we are saved by grace alone revealed in the work of Christ alone, we should not be ashamed but rather embrace suffering to preach the gospel.
Ministry to others requires attention to their specific needs and commitment to their good. Since we are brothers and sisters in Christ, we must seek to benefit one another at all times, reject retaliation, and address our service to their actual needs.
Earthly riches must be invested for eternity, and heavenly riches guarded with diligence. Since God is the giver, we ought to trust in him rather than his gifts, make use of wealth for his glory and others’ good, and keep holding on to the true riches found in the gospel.
The true believer must be everything that the apostate is not. Since apostasy is a very real threat, we must pursue righteousness and true holiness by God’s grace as we wait for the return of Christ in victory.
Those who abandon the faith share certain characteristics and a common end, destruction. Since destruction and sorrow are the expectation of those who fall away, we must commit ourselves to humility, sound doctrine, and true godliness with contentment.
Christian slaves must honor and serve their masters for the sake of Christ and the gospel. Since the gospel delivers us from sin and bondage, we ought to freely and joyfully serve one another, forgoing our own rights in order to guard the gospel and love the brothers.
A church must honor its elders, holding them accountable in light of the coming judgment. Since the Lord himself is watching over the church, we must exercise caution in appointing elders, hold them accountable for righteousness, and support them with honor.
Through his entire crucifixion ordeal and beyond, Jesus remained in complete control. Since none of the events surrounding his crucifixion were accidental but were under Jesus’ direct and immediate control, we must trust him for salvation and direction through life.
The church guards its ministry resources by teaching families to care for those in need. Since the Lord cares for the poor and widows, the church must plan to minister to those truly in need, while teaching Christians to care for those who depend on them.
Gospel ministry requires that we focus on what is primary in the church and its leaders. Since God uses the church and Christian servants to minister salvation, we all must faithfully persevere in our own faith and the word and love for the family of God.
The goal of being a good servant of Christ requires godliness instead of self-righteousness. Since the drive toward external discipline is demonic in origin, we must all pursue true godliness by regularly meditating on Scripture and actively trusting in God’s grace.
Order is necessary in God’s house to guard the gospel and withstand demonic opposition. Since Christ’s ministry is central to the identity and work of the church, we must hold firmly to our confession of faith in the face of spiritual attack.
Servants in the church who are faithful believers will earn great rewards from the Lord. Since God has promised to honor and strengthen those who serve faithfully in the body, every Christian ought to live out their faith through selfless servitude to God’s people.
Pastors must be men of godly character and reputation at home, in the church and world. Since God’s good design is the basis for church leadership, those who aspire to lead must live by his standard as examples to the flock and also the unsaved world.
In worship, men lead in prayer and women excel in good works under male authority. Since the gospel is of paramount importance, we must order the church according to God’s design for his glory and our benefit.
Believers’ prayers ought to reflect the heart of God for sinners in need of a Savior. Since God’s salvation is offered to all without prejudice, the church ought to pray for all men and seek their redemption through faith in the finished work of Christ.
The call to serve equips God’s minister to persevere and avoid spiritual disaster. Since the Lord has called us to be ministers, we must remain faithful and exercise discipline in order to avoid the fate of those who have rejected the truth.
Paul himself is proof that only grace can overcome sin and save even the vilest sinner. Since God’s grace super-abounds to save sinners, we must proclaim it rightly to those who may still repent and believe on Christ, so that they may be saved.
The pursuit of novelty leads away from truth and its end, a life transformed by grace. Since the gospel reveals God’s glory, we must choose to be satisfied with good doctrine and reject those who would turn aside to novelty and insincerity.
Yahweh deserves to be praised in all places by all creatures with exuberant skill. Since the Lord is worthy of the accumulated praise of every living being, we must begin to praise him in anticipation of the day when all the rest will join in worshiping our God.
Yahweh is praised for his salvation, even as his people look for his coming kingdom. Since the Lord has saved us and made great promises of future deliverance and judgment, we ought to rejoice in what he has done and anticipate the fulfillment of his word.
Yahweh deserves praise for his creation and care, but especially for the election of Israel. Since the Lord has made all things and rules over all things, we ought to praise and honor him, especially as the recipients of his saving grace.
God is worthy of praise for his great power and wisdom shown best by his tender care. Since Yahweh is high above all the things he has made and yet cares for all of them, we ought to revere him is Lord and trust in his faithful love.
As our Creator and King, Yahweh alone is worthy of our trust expressed through praise. Since there is no hope in trusting men, we must rely on God alone for salvation and help, hope in his goodness, and praise him as long as we live.
Yahweh, the true and rightful King, is glorious in majesty, goodness, grace, and mercy. Since Yahweh is the true King over and above all earthly kings, we ought to praise and worship him, broadcast the greatness of his kingdom, and revere him with sincere love.
David looks forward to a future full of hope, because of the faithfulness of his God. Since the people whose God is Yahweh will enjoy great blessings under the Davidic king, we ought to look forward in anticipation of that day and seek to enter into it by faith.
David looks forward to a future full of hope, because of the faithfulness of his God. Since the people whose God is Yahweh will enjoy great blessings under the Davidic king, we ought to look forward in anticipation of that day and seek to enter into it by faith.
The psalmist cries out for deliverance and guidance from God’s Spirit in a righteous way. Since we are unrighteous and unworthy of salvation, we must depend on the Lord to teach us how to live, show us his will, and guide us to obedient service.
In desperation David cries out loud to Yahweh and maintains hope in the promises of God. Since the Lord knows the believer’s path and trials, we can pray in the hope that he knows the depth of our need and will keep his promises.
The psalmist prays for sanctifying grace as well as justice and commits himself to God. Since we are sinfully inclined, we must pray for grace to turn our hearts toward good so that we are not condemned along with the wicked.
The psalmist prays for sanctifying grace as well as justice and commits himself to God. Since we are sinfully inclined, we must pray for grace to turn our hearts toward good so that we are not condemned along with the wicked.
David prayed for divine intervention to bring justice in the midst of this fallen world. Since true justice means the destruction of the faithless and the reward of the faithful, we must seek to know God and receive his grace as we depend on him to make things right.
David exults in his relationship with the infinite God, his wise Creator and merciful Judge. Since the Lord knows us intimately, is present with us constantly, created us skillfully, and judges us with equity, we must yield ourselves to him humbly and trust in his grace.
The psalmist puts his hope in divine justice and the promises of future grace in Jerusalem. Since the Lord has promised to save his people, establish his kingdom, and execute justice for sin, we ought to trust him and remember his word even in the midst of exile.
Yahweh rules over all to provide for and save his people he has made for his own glory. Since the Lord created all things and rules over them to perfectly accomplish his will, we ought to trust him for salvation and the provision of all our needs and give him thanks.
Yahweh is the one, true God who gloriously rules over all and deserves our sincere praise. Since the Scriptures reveal to us who God is and what he does, they must be our source for the ideas and the terms of our praise and worship of the Lord.
The songs of ascent conclude with a call to worship Yahweh and receive his blessing. Since the Lord is the Creator of all, we must learn to honor and extol him as we regularly gather with his people, to acknowledge our dependence on him, and to seek his favor.
Genuine fellowship is a gift of divine grace which blesses the whole congregation. Since true communion is only accomplished by a work of God, we must seek his face above all in obedience and worship, so that we may enjoy the unity of the body of Christ.
Yahweh answered the oath of David with an oath of his own, fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Since Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant, we ought to trust him today and look for his coming to establish his kingdom in righteousness and glory.
David’s concern for God’s presence led him to restore the ark to Jerusalem. Since we need to worship Yahweh and know that our sins are forgiven and our prayers are heard, we must seek his presence with sincerity, determination, and joy.
The psalmist has learned waiting as a lifestyle in humble confidence in God’s presence. Since the Lord is always present with his people, we ought to embrace humility and calm our spirits as we rest in his tender care both now and forever.
All Israel is invited to seek forgiveness from Yahweh who is full of mercy and redemption. Since the Lord is the source of all true salvation, we must confess the depth of our sin and repent sincerely and with our whole hearts.
History shows God’s loyalty to his people and that the judgment of the wicked is assured. Since the Lord has proven himself throughout history and promised to judge evil, we ought to remember past deliverances and take confidence that the ungodly will not prevail.
The blessedness of the nation, the family, and the individual is based on obedient faith. Since all that is good comes from God, we must fear him and walk in his ways in order to experience his gracious blessings.
Without Yahweh’s help, all human efforts are in vain, but he blesses those who honor him. Since the Lord is faithful to fulfill his promises, we must learn to trust in and depend on God in every are of life, knowing that all success is ultimately his.
Past joys experienced by believers give reason to hope in present and future joy from God. Since the Lord has delivered us from bondage, it is right to sing and rejoice, but we must also trust him to complete his saving work in his own time and through our obedience.
Yahweh limits temptations to reveal believers’ faith and make-believers’ lack thereof. Since the Lord protects his people, we ought to rely on him and obey his word, even if this means facing persecution, while we pray for divine justice to sort the evil from the good.
Regardless of circumstances, the Lord provides protection and safety to his people. Since the Lord has promised to protect and provide for his people, we must reject any other object of trust and learn to rely on God alone at all times and for all seasons of life.
With the Lord on their side, his people can never be overcome by the enemy or destroyed. Since God is ever on the side of his people, we must confess our need of him, praise his name with joy, and trust him completely to deliver us from all our enemies.
Fed up with the derision of unbelievers, the psalmist looks steadfastly to heaven for grace. Since the Lord Jesus is seated in the heavens, we ought to cry out to him for help and keep our eyes turned toward heaven no matter how dark our present circumstances.
With great joy the psalmist expects to gather to worship the Lord and hopes for true peace. Since we desire to worship the Lord together, we ought to pray for peace and seek the good of our own city, even while we look for his coming and future reign in Jerusalem.
Yahweh is the Creator and the ever-vigilant guardian of all who trust in him. Since the Lord made everything there is, we must learn to trust his watchful care in every circumstance, both now and into eternity.
In the face of dishonest opponents, the psalmist seeks peace through prayer to Yahweh. Since we live in a world of deceit and hostility to the truth, we must expect to endure opposition and seek peace without compromise by relying on our fellowship with God in Christ.
Life-long commitments to God and his word reinforce the need for grace to the very end. Since the Lord has proven himself faithful through the ups and downs of life, we must continue to rely on him in prayer and by loving his word.
Choosing to follow God’s word means leaving behind sinners, but it is worth the reward. Since the Lord calls us to follow his word and reject every false way, we must turn from sin and sinners, considering the reward of obedience greater than the pleasures of sin.
Yahweh’s word is backed up by his loyal love, giving true wisdom for life to the psalmist. Since the Lord establishes his word by his own faithfulness, we must trust him to endure difficult trials with patience and seek wisdom for life and righteousness in his word.
The psalmist learned to trust the Lord and his gracious word through his own past failures. Since the Lord is merciful and gracious to us when we humble ourselves and repent, we ought to turn to him quickly when we have gone astray and seek to follow his voice.
The blessed man follows God’s path by loving, living, and leaning on the Scriptures. Since the Lord has revealed his way to us through his word, we must study to know it, commit to obey it, reject the temptation to abandon it, and seek divine grace to keep it.
The blessed man follows God’s path by loving, living, and leaning on the Scriptures. Since the Lord has revealed his way to us through his word, we must study to know it, commit to obey it, reject the temptation to abandon it, and seek divine grace to keep it.
A procession of praise enters the city and leads to the altar to give thanks for salvation. Since Christ, like the king in this psalm, entered into the sanctuary to offer himself for our salvation, we ought to trust in the Lord and give him thanks continually.
All peoples ought to praise Yahweh, because what he is to Israel, he is to the world. Since the Lord is faithful and true in his covenants with Israel, he is the source of hope and blessing to all people everywhere who come to him in faith.
The psalmist confesses his love for God because he hears and answers prayer. Since the Lord hears his people and delivers us from death, we must pray diligently, rest in his grace, enjoy his presence, and serve him as long as we live.
Contrary to the gods, Yahweh rules from heaven to guard and bless all who trust in him. Since our God has demonstrated his love and faithfulness, we ought to rely on him for protection, expect future blessings from his hand, and praise him while we have life.
The Exodus was the greatest event of OT history to display God’s transforming power. Since the God of Jacob comes to deliver his people from bondage and to dwell with them, we ought to tremble in reverence and awe even as we trust his loving grace.
Yahweh deserves praise in all places and at all times from the mouths of his devoted ones. Since the Lord is both majestic and merciful, we ought to praise his name regardless of our present circumstances.
The man who fears Yahweh and delights in his law will be divinely blessed. Since the Lord promises blessing on those who fear him and love his word, we must commit ourselves to knowing God and delighting in obeying his word.
Men who are wise will praise God for his great works and obey his faithful words. Since we have been redeemed by God’s grace and joined to him by a covenant oath, we ought to praise the Lord, recount his glories, and honor him by keeping his commands.
The psalmist reveals that by a divine oath Messiah will be an eternal and universal priest. Since Jesus Christ is our rightful King and great High Priest by whom we are forgiven and granted access to God, we must come to him in faith and trust in his work on our behalf.
David extols the future kingly reign of Messiah and reveals his priestly ministry. Since Christ is divinely empowered to rule on the earth, we can trust him to judge righteously; since he is an eternal priest, we can trust him to mediate between us and the Lord.
The psalmist is praying for righteous judgment at God’s hand and in God’s time. Since the Lord is coming to judge the world, we ought to pray for justice to be done to the wicked, for the establishment of Christ’s kingdom, and for mercy toward those who repent.
The psalmist prays for justice on his unrepentant accusers and mercy on those in need. Since the Lord is faithful and sovereign, we must learn to pray in response to our enemies, trust God to deal justly with all men and to be merciful to those who seek him.
The Lord remains faithful and trustworthy in every situation and through all generations. Since God continues to be holy and true, we must learn to trust him to glorify himself and to keep his covenant promises to his people forever.
The Lord uses circumstances to demonstrate his faithful love and to turn us to himself. Since everything that happens in life is governed by God’s gentle providence, we must learn to depend on him in prayer and thank and praise him for his mercy and kindness.
The gospel forces us to choose between loving God or loving the world. Since we have turned from sin and self to trust in Jesus Christ for salvation, we must not love the world, instead we must seek to know and do the will of God.
Our speech is powerful, dangerous, and reveals our true spiritual condition. Since our tongues have such great influence on ourselves and others, we must seek heart-transformation by God’s grace that we might learn self-control in our speech.
The sins of envy and jealousy are futile, destructive, and contrary to faith in God. Since believers are those who trust in the Lord, we must rid ourselves of the sins of rivalry by looking to God and trusting his wisdom rather than sinfully comparing ourselves.
We who are servants of Christ are not to judge but to be judged by our Lord and King. Since Christ died and rose again to become Master of the living and the dead, we must not judge each other but receive one another, leaving all judgment up to God.
Anger, rightly employed, leads to reconciliation instead of conflict and greater temptation. Since anger is not inherently sinful, we must learn to let anger move us toward resolving conflicts and sin in order to prevent the devil from using it to tempt us to sin.
Bitterness and related sins occur when we suppress anger rather than treat it biblically. Since Christ has died to give us peace with God and one another, we must turn from bitterness to forgive, trusting in the sovereign grace of God.
Sinful anger is foolish and dangerous, the product of pride and a lack of self-control. Since anger has such a destructive potential, we must confess outbursts as sin, turn from wrong thinking, and seek to direct our anger toward its rightful object.
We have been called to endure wrongs with patience and hope in God’s love and mercy. Since God has called us to patience, we must repent of our self-interest, seek to be accountable to others, and learn to love others by faith in the Lord.
Self-control is the by-product of wise living by the power of God’s grace. Since we cannot live with self-control apart from divine grace, we must learn to be wise from God’s word so that we can exercise this spiritual discipline in Christ.
The lack of self-control is an overlooked sin which exposes us to greater temptation. Since we have received God’s saving grace, we ought to grow in self-control and righteous obedience as we submit to Christ and do battle with our flesh.
Self-love is opposed to the love of others and of God and often leads to other sins. Since the Lord Jesus Christ gave himself for us, we must seek to serve God and others by denying our selfish impulses and focusing on the needs and interests of others.
The sin of pride comes in many forms, but each destroys faith in God and love for others. Since we are often tempted by pride, we must search out the seeds of pride and destroy them by actively humbling ourselves before the Lord Jesus Christ.
The sin of pride comes in many forms, but each destroys faith in God and love for others. Since we are often tempted by pride, we must search out the seeds of pride and destroy them by actively humbling ourselves before the Lord Jesus Christ.
Unthankfulness is a danger at all times, but especially when God has prospered us. Since everything we have comes from the Lord, we ought to be habitually grateful, confessing his goodness and grace which we receive on a daily basis.
Eve was tempted because her heart questioned God’s goodness, nature, and wisdom. Since the sin of discontentment is caused by a failure to trust God, we must believe his word and trust in the power of Jesus Christ to give our hearts rest.
Jesus commands his disciples not to worry, but to follow him in faith and obedience. Since worry is a demonstration of ignorance, faithlessness, and unbelief, we must seek to grow in relation to Christ, trusting our heavenly Father to supply all our needs.
Ungodliness is a serious threat and the root of a variety of other more obvious sins. Since the Lord is present in every area of life, we must learn to think, speak, and act in ways that show we are mindful of him.
Israel’s history reveals the stubbornness of sin which drives the psalmist to pray for mercy. Since the Lord is unchanging and merciful, we ought to confess our sins openly and thoroughly, hoping only in his grace to forgive and restore.
Yahweh’s sovereignty in history calls us to respond in faith, dependence, and worship. Since the Lord governs the earth by his own word we ought to seek to know him and his word, to fellowship with him, and to proclaim his greatness to others.
The Lord’s covenant faithfulness causes his people to honor him with praise and holiness. Since the Lord has proven his trustworthiness in salvation history, we ought to pursue holy living by remembering his works, proclaiming his greatness, and praising his name.
Yahweh is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and is therefore to be worshiped by all. Since the Lord has made the heavens and the earth and takes pleasure in the things he has made, we ought to praise and worship him as long as we live.
Yahweh’s love is displayed in his loyalty and compassion toward those who honor him. Since God’s love is not merely feel-good emotionalism but an expression of his covenant relationship with his people, we ought to join with everything he has made in a song of praise.
While he does not understand his trial, the psalmist rests in the eternal grace of Yahweh. Since we know the promises of the Lord for future glory and grace, we must focus on his eternal nature and plan rather than our weakness and circumstances.
David’s commitment to integrity starts at home and extends throughout his rule as king. Since we are ambassadors of Christ, we must live out integrity publicly by guarding our eyes, hearts, and close relationships by ruthlessly cutting off sin and its influences.
David declares his commitment to a blameless life and rule as Israel’s king. In light of the mercy and justice displayed at the cross, we ought to live consistently in public as in private, loving what God loves and hating what God hates.
Holiness is displayed in Yahweh’s reign, his judgments, and his acts of forgiveness. Since the Lord himself is holy, we must praise his name; since his judgments are holy, we must revere and exalt him; since his forgiveness is holy, we must know and love him.
Having been saved by God’s grace, his people sing in the hope of his glorious coming. Since the Lord has saved his people, we ought to sing in preparation for his coming when all the earth will join in praising the King.
Yahweh’s reign is characterized by righteousness in which his people rejoice and live. Since the Lord’s coming is with power and judgment on idolators, we ought to love righteousness and hate evil.
The fact of Christ’s coming kingdom reign is the ultimate basis for our praise and worship. Since Christ is coming to judge the world, we ought to sing, give glory, and rejoice in hopeful anticipation of his righteous rule.
The families of the earth are invited to worship the Lord by giving appropriate gifts. Since the Lord is all glorious, we ought to bring him tribute worthy of his name, acknowledging our great debt of honor to Lord who reigns.
The people of the King are to sing a new song expressing joy in fellowship with the Lord. Since the Lord Jesus Christ is both our Savior and Creator, we ought to be awestruck daily by his grace and proclaim his glory to all the world.
God’s people are welcomed to extol the Lord and warned about the dangers of failure. Since Yahweh is King, Creator, and Shepherd, we must worship him with jubilant praise and be wary of the failures of past generations who hardened their hearts against him.
True justice belongs to the Lord who will judge the oppressor and comfort the oppressed. Since judgment belongs to God, we must learn to trust him and depend on him in prayer rather than seek justice for ourselves, even when it appears to be delayed.
The Lord is our authority, whether we like it or not. We must learn to submit to his rule rather than resist him by believing his word, trusting his word, and obeying his word.
Yahweh rules in majesty making his word sure and adorning his house with holiness. Since God sits enthroned in heaven ruling over the earth as its Creator and Lord, we ought to trust his faithful word and pursue the holiness which beautifies heaven.
The godly can enjoy fruitful life for all their days, because they worship the Lord always. Since God is the standard by which all things are measured, we must believe what he has revealed in Scripture concerning himself and develop a habit of regular worship and praise.
The promises of Psalm 91 are intended to stir up divine delight in our hearts. Since the Lord himself guarantees the promises of his word, we ought to delight in him, to seek him and find him fully satisfying.
The believer calls on the Lord in times of trouble because he knows and trusts in him. Since we have the promise of his protection, we ought to love God, to know his nature and name, and call on him in prayer.
Our life is brief and subject to wrath, but the wise man seeks mercy and grace from God. Since this life will soon be past, we must seek wisdom to use the days that have been given to us and trust in God’s mercy and grace to bring lasting joy and purpose to our days.
In light of the failure of the line of David, God’s people must trust in the Lord alone. Since we cannot rely on the strength or moral character of men, we must learn to trust in the Lord and express our hope through the praise and worship of Yahweh.
There remains hope that the faithful God will keep his covenant, though he seems to delay. Since our God is faithful and true, we can and must trust him to keep his word and fulfill his covenant.
God’s covenant rests on his sovereign rule displayed in creation and among his people. Since God’s kingdom is founded on his righteous judgment, mercy, and truth, his people are blessed and rejoice as they live in the light of his diffused glory.
Sin and death are crushing weights that drive God’s children to pray and trust in him. Since no happily ever after is promised, we must trust in hope though all hope seems lost, and grieve over the terrible cost of sin as we await our final redemption.
God’s people hope in his glorious promises of a future kingdom and rejoice in redemption. Since Yahweh has promised to establish his city and fill it with redeemed nations, we ought to trust him and rejoice that he has chosen and adopted us.
The psalmist prays to God, his master, to give him grace to be wholly devoted to his Lord. Since we cannot be faithful with hearts that are divided and wavering, we must pray in faith for divine grace to heal our hearts and teach us to walk in righteousness for his glory.
The psalmist prays to God, his master, to give him grace to be wholly devoted to his Lord. Since we cannot be faithful with hearts that are divided and wavering, we must pray in faith for divine grace to heal our hearts and teach us to walk in righteousness for his glory.
To combat spiritual lethargy the psalmist reminds Israel of their need for repentant grace. Since we cannot grow in faith apart from God’s grace, we must remember our past redemption, pray for present mercy, and live in hopeful obedience.
The atonement for sin must uphold Yahweh’s mercy, truth, peace, and righteousness. Since God has offered up Jesus as our atoning sacrifice, we can enjoy mercy and pardon, though we are guilty sinners, without jeopardizing God’s perfect righteousness.
God grants favor to those who desire his presence, rely on his strength, and trust his name. Since there is a blessing associated with seeking the Lord, we ought to long for close fellowship with him, renew our strength as we journey in faith, and live in obedience and trust.
God’s people pray for him to rise up against his enemies and glorify himself before men. Since the Lord is the Most High over the whole earth, and all sin is rebellion against his rule, we ought to humble ourselves and submit to his powerful name.
God as Judge calls the leaders of his people to repentance and faithfulness. Since the Lord judges the whole earth, we all must submit to his rule and humbly turn from sin to be saved.
History reveals the sad truth that our trouble is a stubborn heart in need of repentance. Since we are all sinners like Israel and stubborn of heart, we ought to turn to the Lord in repentance and faith, trusting him to satisfy as we follow his commands.
Israel’s failures have led to a dead end only God’s gracious favor can overcome. Since we, like Israel, have ruined any hope of pleasing God ourselves, we must pray for him to grant repentance and grant us favor through Christ whom he sent as our mediator.
God’s unchanging loyalty to his people gives us cause to hope in mercy and give thanks. Since we are often unfaithful, the chastening of God is necessary, but we should respond with repentance and trust in his mercy that leads to thanksgiving and praise.
The choice of David as Israel’s king was based on God’s promises, not their obedience. Since God has proven himself faithful in the past, we must not trust in our strength to remain faithful to him but in his ever-present mercy and grace to keep his word.
Yahweh remained compassionate toward the exodus generation in spite of their unbelief. Since we share the same human frailty as the fathers of Israel, we must not rely on our own devotion or strength or experience but on the abundance of God’s mercy to keep hold of us.
Faith in God is based on his record of works, not our efforts or experiences. Since committing ourselves to prayer and to relive past experiences may prove insufficient in the face of genuine despair, we must trust God on the basis of his revealed truth.
God has revealed himself by his great works, and he will be worshiped by all mankind. Since God is the Lord over all the earth, we ought to submit to him and worship him as Master and King before we are compelled to do so on the day of judgment.
God will humble the proud and exalt the lowly in his appointed time. Since we know that God will righteously judge the wicked, we ought to trust him, to declare his suspended judgment, and to praise his name.
Suffering inspires difficult questions, yet the believer trusts in and submits to God as King. Since the Lord has done great works of redemption in the past, we must remember them and trust his commitment to his own glory.
Suffering inspires difficult questions, yet the believer trusts in and submits to God as King. Since the Lord has done great works of redemption in the past, we must trust in his justice, mercy, and commitment to his own glory.
Divine wisdom reveals the true value of the life of faith and the constancy of God’s grace. Since the struggle with sin can only be understood from God’s perspective, we ought to seek to enter his presence and remember his faithfulness in life and eternity.
Diligence in good works and supporting ministry assures Christian fruitfulness. Since we have the benefit of God’s grace, we ought to care for the needs of others, especially fellow believers and ministers of the gospel.
The focus of the church, set right, is to be on the gospel and its outworking in our lives. Since the gospel of God’s grace is what transforms the lives of believers, we must stay focused on its preaching and teaching and reject any distractions.
The triune God has saved us by his mercy resulting in our full inheritance of his glory. Since we are saved by God’s mercy and not our own righteous works, we ought to glory in Christ and live in godliness, seeking the salvation of those still enslaved to sin.
Paul says we need to remember how to live, because God’s grace transforms us completely, and we need to remember how we used to live, because we all can forget just how rebellious we were, enslaved to our sinful passions, and filled with hate for ourselves and others.
The grace of God saves, sanctifies, and secures all those who believe on Jesus Christ. Since we have received the grace of God by believing the gospel, we ought to live righteously in this present age and watch for the glory of the age to come when Christ appears.
Christian slaves were responsible for behavior which would support the gospel message. Since we all are under authority, we ought to conduct ourselves in humble submission focusing on the ministry of the gospel over the expression of our rights.
Younger women must learn from the older how to live consistently at home and in public. Since the world will judge the Christian scriptures based largely on Christians’ character, we ought to obey conscientiously and consistently in our public and private lives.
Like the older men, older women are to be examples of appropriate attitudes and behavior. Since they have greater life experience and spiritual maturity, older Christian women ought to set an example of grace and godliness to cultivate influence with the younger women.
Older men must set an example for the younger of healthy faith, love, and perseverance. Since men face unique challenges and temptations, we must pursue godly steadfastness so that we do not give the enemy an opportunity to slander the Christian faith.
Godly leaders are necessary to protect the church from the ever-present false teachers. Since there are always men ready to lead the church away from the truth, we must commit the gospel to faithful men who may rebuke the ungodly and turn them to repentance.
Church leaders must be chosen whose godliness proves the power of their gospel message. Since pastors must be examples of godliness, we ought to rejoice in the power of the gospel to overcome their sin and our own, pray for them, and strive to follow their example.
The hope of salvation is rooted in faith, knowledge, and obedience to the gospel message. Since our confidence of salvation is rooted in our response to the gospel, we must believe the promise of God to save all who know and obey the truth.
Messiah’s reign will be righteous, compassionate, and glorious beyond measure. Since the Lord has promised to establish Christ as king over the whole earth, we ought to submit to him, honor him, and worship him now.
Yahweh can be trusted in every stage of life. Since aging is an inevitable process of life and brings with it unique challenges, we must learn to rely on God’s grace and trust his purpose for us until the end.
The urgency of the psalmist’s need translates into the fervency of his prayer. While God is eternal and timeless, we live in time and face urgent needs which ought to move us to pray fervently for mercy, justice, and ultimately God’s glory.
Believers pray for rescue and justice while trusting and praising God’s faithfulness. Since the Lord is merciful and gracious toward his people and angry with the wicked, his people ought to pray for help in the face of suffering and persecution.
God’s victory march began in the past, continues in the present, and culminates in the future kingdom. Since God’s victory is already assured, we ought to worship him as Lord today, looking forward to the day when he ascends to his throne.
The praise of God’s people is a powerful platform for the good news of salvation. Since God has blessed us with redemption, forgiveness, wisdom, knowledge, and an inheritance in Christ, we ought to praise him and proclaim his righteous rule to all peoples.
God’s glory is displayed by saving, purifying, and caring for his people. We must glorify the one who saved and sanctified us by bearing witness to his awesome works, his faithfulness in times of trial, and his constant care.
God’s providence in earthly things proves his power and faithfulness in spiritual things. Since the world practically sings the glory of God’s provision and blessing, we ought to trust in divine atonement and provision as we seek others to join in the worship of God.
The blessings of providence prove God’s grace in salvation and future restoration. Since the world practically sings the glory of God’s provision and blessing, we ought to pray for mercy and forgiveness and hope for the faithful fulfillment of all of God’s promises.
The plots of unseen enemies are known to God, who will guard and keep his servant. Since the hearts of men are unsearchable, at least to us as men, we must trust in Yahweh to protect us and repent of our foolish pride which causes us to think we are wiser than God.
Wherever he finds himself, the man of faith can have total satisfaction in God’s presence. Since God’s grace is sufficient for every circumstance, we ought to rejoice in him and bless his name, trusting in him for mercy and justice.
While man altogether is lighter than air, God is weighty and stable, a trustworthy Savior. Since trials are the expectation of God’s people, we ought to rest quietly in his care, reminding ourselves, other believers, and even ungodly rebels of his power and faithful love.
God’s faithfulness inspires the believer’s habitual prayer, rest, and worship. Since experience agrees with God’s word, we ought to know the power of prayer and rest in God’s promises as we worship him and offer praises.
God faithfully keeps his word to his beloved people by his own great might. Since God is sovereign over all kingdoms and nations of men, we ought to trust him to fulfill his promises in love even when we fall short of full obedience.
The loving God can be trusted to rescue his people and repay those who trouble them. Since Yahweh is indeed watching over his people, we ought to pray for mercy and grace, confident that he will hear and respond and judge in perfect righteousness.
God’s judgment rewards the righteous and reveals his greatness on the earth. Since judgment is certain for all who reject righteousness, we ought to repent for sin and rejoice in God’s goodness toward those he preserves.
God’s kingdom will mean justice for his people and glory and honor in all the earth. Since the Lord’s coming is promised, we ought to pray for his kingdom to come, trust him to deliver his people, and worship him in anticipation.
True worship includes keeping commitments by and giving thanks for God’s grace. Since God has graciously delivered us and helped us, we ought to give him thanks and walk before him in obedience.
Trust is built on the foundation of God’s word which produces hope in response to fear. Since God’s word reveals his faithfulness and care, we ought to trust in him when threatened by human opposition and give thanks in response to his deliverance.
The solution to our trials is not flight but trusting in the Lord. Since God is faithful to hear the cries of his peoples and judge the ungodly for their sin, we ought to cast our burdens on him and trust in him.
The Lord is a faithful helper, even in the common and recurring trials of life. Since God is trustworthy and loving, we must turn to him for help whenever we are in any need, as often as that need arises, knowing that he will support and protect us.
All who live as though God were not are doomed to perish when his people are restored. Since the judgment of God is already determined, we ought to humble ourselves rather than foolishly live as practical atheists, and hope for his promised kingdom.
Those who repent of sin will be preserved, while those who refuse will be destroyed. Since the wicked’s judgment is sure, we should trust in God’s mercy and praise him publicly for his faithfulness while we wait for his deliverance.
David sings of righteousness as one whose guilt could only be removed by divine action. Since the guilt of our sin can only be taken away by the offering of a divine sacrifice, we must cast ourselves upon God’s mercy and sing praise out of a broken heart.
The sinner who owns his guilt and seeks mercy will find God graciously cleanses his sin. Since the Lord is full of compassion and love, we must confess our sin and its root in a sinful heart to receive washing and experience renewed fellowship with God and his people.
To worship God rightly we must know him accurately, on this basis we will be judged. Since the Lord does not suffer rebels, we must obey all his commands.
To worship God rightly we must know him accurately, on this basis we will be judged. Since God does not depend on our offerings, we must give them with our whole hearts.
It is impossible for man to redeem man, but the Lord will receive those who trust in him. Since wealth and its influence cannot prevent or pass through death, we should not trust in money but in the Lord who is able to deliver us from the power of the grave.
God exalts himself and brings all people under his rule. Since the Lord is exalted in the earth, we ought to praise and worship him in anticipation of his reign and seek to model the unity and fellowship that will come under his rule.
The Lord will exalt himself by demonstrating his faithfulness to his people. Since God has committed himself to being near to help his people, we must trust in him and live confidently in the hope of his faithfulness and the pursuit of his own glory.
The bride is counseled in wisdom and clothed in grace to meet her King. Since Christ has chosen the church for his bride, we ought to embrace our role of submission and worship even as we enjoy the pleasure of his love and the dignity it brings.
Messiah is beautiful and glorious in power as he awaits his beautifully adorned bride. Since Jesus is the rightful King and victor over the enemies of God, we ought to bow before him and sing praise to his name.
God allows even the righteous to suffer, yet he is still worthy of our loyalty and devotion. Since our relationship with God is built on the foundation of his grace, we ought to trust him and worship him, even when we endure suffering as faithful followers of Christ.
In times of loneliness and despair, believers can rely on God's light and truth to give hope. Since God's light and truth will guide us into fellowship with him, we ought to have confidence in the face of mocking unbelievers and painful memories.
The sons of Korah are trophies of God's grace which overcomes our past failures. Since the Lord used the sons of Korah in such tremendous ways, even after their father's rebellion, we ought to look forward to the future living in the grace of God.
EBC Core Value #6
The gifts of God are to be used by every believer for his glory in the local church. Since all glory belongs to God through Christ, we must serve him as faithful stewards by using his gracious gifts to minister to one another.
EBC Core Value #5
True love is to be exercised with energy, generosity, and a cheerful disposition. Since Christ's return is imminent, we ought to love one another in the church intentionally, selflessly, and sacrificially.
EBC Core Value #4
Prayer is both the right response to and natural product of faith in Christ's return. Since Christ's coming is immanent, you ought to pray often, practicing self-control and vigilance.
EBC Core Value #3
The Scriptures are God's word to give life and abundance to all who receive them by faith. Since the Bible is God's word, sent to accomplish his work of redemption and transformation, we ought to love it, meditate on it, and cherish it as individuals and as a church.
EBC Core Value #2
The old man and new man cannot coexist peacefully, but war within the child of God. Since we would seek to please God, we must walk in the Spirit to deny the works of the flesh, recognizing that our flesh was crucified with Christ.
EBC Core Value #1
God alone is worthy of our honor and religious service. Since we are instructed to worship only the Lord, we ought to serve him in holiness through prayer and praise.
Sincere worship and devotion are the primary values that flow from knowing the Lord. Since worship and devotion are the necessary and proper response of faithful souls, we ought to test the fruits of our values to see that our values match those taught by Jesus.
Praise is an acceptable sacrifice for all who know the LORD. Since the LORD is great and worthy of praise, it is only right that his people should praise him at all times and in all circumstances.
The faithful may claim God's grace in times of trouble and trust in his favor. We must be doers of the word and not hearers only, then God will extend his grace to us to sustain us in times of trouble and grief as we depend on him.
The Lord himself is our Redeemer and is worthy of our trust, obedience, and praise. Since the Lord has redeemed us by his righteousness and faithfulness, and with great mercy and compassion, we ought to trust in him, to serve him, and pray for his help in the future.
The Lord himself is our Redeemer and is worthy of our trust, obedience, and praise. Since the Lord has done wonderful works in the past, we should trust in him. Since he has shown compassion and mercy, we should pray for future help. Since he is righteous and faithful, we ought to serve him with humility.
The hard realities of life are best viewed against its brief and shallow nature. Since life is a brief sojourn and its pursuits shallow, we ought to wait for and hope in the Lord.
When harmed by sin, sickness, and sorrow, the believer comforts himself in the Lord. We must respond to sin, sickness, and sorrow with confession, prayer, and patience as we wait on the Lord for deliverance.
Living by faith and obeying God’s word help us avoid needless worry and anger. Since the Lord will judge rightly, and he promises help to those who trust in him, we ought to do good instead of evil to those who are against us.
God's magnificent mercy and glorious grace are man's only hope. Since men are corrupt and deserving of judgment, we must trust in the lovingkindness and favor of God, which are able to save our souls.
As followers of God we must expect to be hated for his sake and trust him to help us love our enemies. Since Jesus told us to expect mistreatment at the hands of unbelievers, we ought to bring our complaints to God, praying for his help and succor, even as we seek to do good to our enemies.
True worship involves God's people making much of him so that others will trust in him. Since the Lord is great, all believers ought to make his name great so that the afflicted will hear of him and trust in him.
God's goodness is available to all who will drink deeply of him, fear him, and trust in him. Since the Lord is faithful, we ought to hope in his redemption, seek peace with God and others, and magnify the Lord before all men.
Yahweh is the God of creation, of providence, and of grace. Since the Lord has made all things, controls all things, and shows mercy to the humble, we ought to worship him and tune our hearts to his.
Sin brings great distress and anguish, but confession and repentance bring pardon and joy. Since we have the promise of forgiveness by faith, we ought to be honest about our guilt and seek the Lord’s gentle guidance and care.
To trust in the Lord means to live intentionally by his will and ways and not our own. Since the Lord is merciful, our great Redeemer, and the only true God whose name is at stake, we can commit our souls and lives to his hand.
Praise the LORD for hearing my cry and granting me mercy and forgiveness. Since the LORD is the source of our strength and hope, we ought to praise him and give thanks for his patience when we foolishly boast in ourselves.
All things in heaven and earth are made to worship the Lord, the great King. Since the Lord sits as King over the heavens and the earth, we ought to give glory to him, even as we enjoy the strength and peace he gives his people.
For the believer, prayer is the means of finding comfort in our Great Shepherd. Since the Lord is a righteous Judge and the strength of his people, we ought to commit ourselves to diligent and persistent prayer.
Faith leads us to cast ourselves on God for help and to strengthen ourselves in him. Since the LORD is more dependable than men, we ought to pray that he would hear and respond to our needs and renew our hopes in his goodness.
Faith in the Lord is bold and exuberant, and it sustains us in times of trouble. Since the Lord is our Deliverer, we ought to be confident in his salvation and commit ourselves to draw near to him and commune with him.
The true worshiper of Christ is confident in his faith, his righteousness, and his Lord. Since we have been made righteous by God through faith in Jesus, we ought to praise and exalt him with bold confidence as children of the heavenly King.
Believers can enjoy the companionship of God, if they conform to his will and way. Since God offers help and comfort along the path of faith, we ought to humble ourselves in awe of his greatness and renew ourselves in his mercy and forgiveness.
The believer gives himself wholly to the Lord, trusting in his strength, guidance, and love. Since the Lord rewards faith with the assurance of his help, guidance, and forgiveness, we ought to choose to cast ourselves upon his faithfulness.
Christ our King is coming back, and all men must prepare to meet him. Since our King is returning in power and glory, we ought to humble ourselves and worship him with pure hearts and hands.
The Lord pursues us with his mercy to forgive and his grace to bless us abundantly. Since God pours out unearned blessings on us, we ought to worship him with our whole lives.
The presence of the Lord in times of trials leads his people to trust him without fear. Since the Lord, like a good shepherd, accompanies us through the times of trouble, we ought to continue on with boldness in the protective comfort of his word.
The Lord who is our shepherd, loves and cares for his sheep with wisdom and compassion. Since our shepherd loves us so, in spite of our weakness and tendency to sin, we ought to trust in his grace and guidance.
As the Shepherd of the sheep, God always provides for our needs in the appropriate way and time. Since the Lord provides faithfully, we must learn to be content with whatever he has given us.
Messiah won great fame because he trusted in his faithful Father, even through death on the cross. Since Christ died for us and is glorified by God's great power, we ought to believe on him, worship him, and serve him.
Christ won the victory on the cross and will complete his triumph at his second coming. Since our king is victorious we ought to rejoice and give thanks for his great power and faithful love.
Our victory and glory are found in Christ alone, and in the Lord alone do we trust. Since Christ is our King, the one who goes out to war for us, we ought to pray that his work will succeed and trust in the Lord's strength rather than our own.
The invisible God has revealed himself in creation, his word, and ultimately, his Son. Since the Lord has revealed himself to us, we ought to worship the Creator and Author who is also our Redeemer.
The Lord's presence and power are tested and proven resources available to each of his children. It is not enough to just read about God's constancy, we must experience it in the trials and challenges of life and praise God for his steady support and deliverance.
We must strive to live above reproach, seeking God's face and to be made in his likeness. Since the likeness of God is the goal, we must live in obedience and faith.
When we truly seek the Lord as our prize, then we will be fully satisfied with his gifts. Since the Lord has promised to lead us into life, satisfy us with his joy, and bless us with eternal delights, we must seek him as our highest prize.
We come to the Lord as refugees and find that we become heirs. Since the Lord is our portion, we must learn to walk by faith in his wisdom and strength and the hope of eternal life.
Only those who are perfectly righteous may worship the Lord, but as sinners we come by way of his great grace. Since we cannot worship the Lord on our own merits, we must rely on his grace which cleanses us from sin, empowers us to do right, and ushers us into the presence of God.
Foolish men live as if God did not exist, but the wise long for his return. Since the Lord is in heaven, looking down to judge the affairs of men, we ought to love righteousness, reject immorality, and pray for his coming.
When we focus on God and his word, we can praise him in the middle of trials. Since God's faithfulness and grace are ever-flowing toward us, we ought to rejoice in our hearts and sing with our lips to the Lord who answers our prayers.
Men distort the truth, but God's word can always be trusted. Since God's words can always be trusted, we ought to believe him when he says that words matter, that he is our rightful Lord, and that his grace brings hope to a lost world.
God uses trials to refine his people, proving our character, and to destroy unbelievers. Since God is just and loves the righteous, we ought to trust him rather than follow human wisdom to protect ourselves from danger.
The success of sinners is only an illusion, but God's authority and justice are very real. Since we can be fooled by our eyes, we must believe God's word, trusting him to judge rightly and seeking to obey his commands.
God's wisdom is displayed powerfully in the humiliation and exaltation of man. Since the Lord is infinitely greater than man in power and wisdom, we ought to humbly praise him and submit to him as the true governor of all things.
God's wisdom is displayed powerfully in the humiliation and exaltation of man. Since the Lord is infinitely greater than man in power and wisdom, we ought to humbly praise him and submit to him as the true governor of all things.
It is better to suffer unjustly than to join the wicked in their sin, because the Lord will judge rightly. Since God is the omniscient and omnipotent Judge, we ought to trust him to defend us when we are accused falsely.
Sin's crushing guilt ought to drive us to fall at God's feet pleading for his mercy. Since the Lord is abundantly merciful, we can and should turn to him for healing and forgiveness when we have sinned, believing that he will hear and respond with favor.
Mercy and grace are the foundation of fellowship with the Lord and lead to thanksgiving. Since the Lord forgives and guides us in obedience, we ought to sing out praise to him loudly and publicly.
There are only two ways to live, one which leads to life and the other to destruction. If we desire to be wise, we must live as the righteous man, not as the wicked.
Who is Jesus Really?
Jesus is the sacrificial substitute who bore the sins of the whole world and made atonement for them once-for-all. Since Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, we ought to humble ourselves & worship him and preach him to others.
Who is Jesus Really?
Jesus is the great I Am of Israel, the faithful One who keeps his covenant with his people. We must recognize Jesus as Yahweh, the great I Am, and trust him to keep his promise of salvation, just as he has through all of history.
Who is Jesus Really?
Because of his unique position as the Son, Jesus is able to reveal the Father to man and fill us with his grace. Since Christ has revealed the Father, we must come to God by believing on the name of Jesus Christ, and since he fills believers with his grace, we must extend that grace to others.
Who is Jesus Really?
Jesus Christ spanned the infinite gulf between God and men in the incarnation. Since the Word has become flesh, we ought to recognize his glory and receive his grace, knowing that he is full of truth.
Who is Jesus Really?
John was not Jesus. He was only a man, but a man who was a witness for Christ both in word and deed. If we have met Jesus Christ, we ought to give testimony in our lives and by our lips of who he is and what he has done.
Who is Jesus Really?
Christ has revealed the blindness of men, who must either hate the truth or be healed by it. Since the light of the gospel shines on us here and now, we must have our sight restored in Christ rather than continue in darkness.
Who is Jesus Really?
All real life comes from Christ, and he gives it those who believe on him. Since true life comes from Christ, we ought to consider ourselves to see whether we have taken hold of that life by faith in Christ Jesus as Lord.
Who is Jesus Really?
Jesus Christ is the unmade Maker of all things that came to be. Since Christ created all things that ever came to be we ought to give thanks for the way he has made us, be satisfied with what he has given us, and commit to live for his pleasure.
Who Is Jesus Really?
Jesus Christ is the eternally-existing, divine-yet-distinct, Word of God. We ought to believe on Christ as the Son of God and receive life by his name.
The Christian life involves ministering the gospel to those who are still lost in sin and encouraging Christian brothers and sisters to obey every word of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Those who hear the gospel must believe or else they risk a hardened heart and eternal condemnation. Since we all hear the gospel today, we must repent and believe in Christ who promises divine healing from the scourge of sin to those with tender hearts.
Staying focused on our service to the Lord and the needs of the lost will keep us from becoming bitter. Since every Christian has been called to be a minister of the gospel, we ought to remain focused on serving the Lord rather than on offenses that have been done to us.
Fellowship with other believers is a primary source of courage and strength for Christians. Since we both give and receive strength through fellowship, we ought to pursue fellowship with our Christian brothers at every opportunity.
The Lord provides for his people as they are faithful to love and serve others for his sake. Since God always provides for our needs, we ought to be focused on serving those in need and reaching others for Christ rather than on fulfilling our own desires.
In our trials, God displays his power, truth, wisdom, glory, faithfulness, love, and care. Since God shows his own nature in the midst of our trials, we ought to focus our eyes on him, learning to depend on him.
There are many ways to fall short but only one way to receive the forgiveness of sins and the hope of heaven. Since Christ is the only way to the Father, we must believe on him by faith to forgive our sins, make us holy, and give us an eternal inheritance.
The believer must live without offense to others if his witness is to be effective. Since we are to live above reproach, we must take great care in all our actions, thinking of others and submitting to our God-given authorities.
We must repent and trust in Christ to be delivered from the judgment for our sin. Since we are all guilty of unrighteousness, we must turn from our sin to the Savior before the appointed time of judgment.
God uses all men and events to take care of his people and to further spread the gospel. Since God is in control, using even the sinful actions of others to bring about his will, we can rest in peace and full faith in the Lord.
True fellowship and community are demonstrated by sacrificial love for the sake of Christ. Even within the church, we must care more for each other than for ourselves if we want to experience true fellowship and unity.
Paul's example for the Ephesian elders was to preach the whole Scriptures and serve sacrificially, trusting in the grace of God to complete the work. Since God's grace is able to both strengthen and preserve the church, we must depend on it rather than ourselves in the work of the ministry.
Paul's singular focus was the ministry of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Since we have been given only this life in which to serve the Lord, we ought to make gospel ministry our priority over our own comfort and safety.
Believers ought to be committed to worship together in the local church. Since our gatherings are a celebration of the resurrected Christ and an opportunity to hear the precious word of God, we ought to make them a priority.
Giving is an indication of the spiritual condition of the believer. Believers ought to give out of joy for the gospel, gratitude for those who minister it to them, and praise to the Lord who supplies.
Giving is an indication of the spiritual condition of the believer. Believers ought to give out of joy for the gospel, gratitude for those who minister it to them, and praise to the Lord who supplies.
Paul seized the opportunity to preach and endured persecution to make many disciples. We must learn to see the lost with eyes of faith, taking advantage of the open doors around us, willing to endure opposition in order to minister the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Genuine faith in Christ is demonstrated by believer baptism and the Spirit's presence. Those who profess faith in Christ ought to examine themselves as to whether the Holy Spirit is present within and follow the Lord in baptism.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: Jesus Loves Me
True Christians love the way God loves. Since God displayed his love in the incarnation of Christ and paid the great price of love at Calvary, we ought to love others out of a grateful heart.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: I Run to Christ
The Lord is the believer's strength and his place of safety, and worthy of praise. We ought to trust the Lord for he never fails to support and protect his own, and our praise must be directed to him.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: Jesus Loves Even Me
God deserves to be praised before others by his people, even in the midst of trying and uncertain circumstances. Since God has proven himself trustworthy, we ought to magnify God before others, anticipating his goodness and grace even when it is not obviously present.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: Almost Persuaded
Everyone who hears the gospel must either accept or reject it. Since the gospel of Christ is both reasonable and true, we ought to repent and believe, living out faith in Jesus Christ our Savior.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: Depth of Mercy
God shows mercy to all who humbly and honestly confess their sin. We ought to humble ourselves before the Lord, owning up to our own sin and obeying the Lord who mercifully forgives and disciplines us.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: O Church Arise
We learn patience through trials and the examples of the OT saints, but especially Christ. Since we have so many examples of godly faith, we ought to focus only on Christ, setting aside any distraction and sin to live for him.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: For the Sake of His Name
Service for the Lord will receive a promised reward both now and in eternity. Though it may seem that faithful service is unrewarded, we must trust God in faith that our efforts are not wasted in light of the resurrection promise.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: When He Cometh
The Lord will return, bringing reward to his people and judgment to his enemies. As we wait for Jesus' return, we ought to adopt a heavenly value system, knowing that judgment will come with reward for those who love him.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: Rejoice, the Lord is King
Jesus Christ is Lord over all and the object of our joyful hope. Since Jesus reigns supreme, we ought to delight in him and rejoice at all times.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: The Power of the Cross
We have nothing to glory in except the cross of Jesus Christ our Savior. Since it is impossible for us to be acceptable to God apart from Christ, we ought to praise him for his atoning work on the cross and share the good news with others.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: O Come, All Ye Faithful
The incarnation of God in the person of Jesus is one of the greatest miracles of all time. Since God took upon himself human flesh, entering into his own creation and sharing in our frailty and weakness, he alone can offer salvation, and he alone deserves our adoration.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
True peace is only found in the Prince of Peace, whose Spirit is present within believers now, and who will return to earth to establish his kingdom in righteousness and peace. Our personal desire for peace will only be satisfied when we receive Christ as our Lord and Savior, and the only hope for peace on earth is his 2nd coming for which we must watch and pray.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing
God's divine attributes are pictured in the splendor of the natural world, making him worthy of all our praise. Since God's creative power and wisdom are on display in the physical world, we ought to marvel in wonder at all he has made and glorify his name with our whole being.
Hymns Every Christian Should Know: I Sing the Mighty Power of God
God's divine attributes are pictured in the splendor of the natural world, making him worthy of all our praise. Since God's creative power and wisdom are on display in the physical world, we ought to marvel in wonder at all he has made and glorify his name with our whole being.
Paul traveled to Antioch and through Galatia because he was committed to the local church in his entire life and ministry. Since Paul demonstrated submission to the authority of the local church and a desire to minister in and through the local church, we ought to be committed to our local church as the center of our Christian life.
Paul received God's promise of protection and fruit in Corinth which gave him courage to preach the gospel boldly to all men. We ought to take courage from the knowledge of God's sovereignty both in our protection and the salvation of the lost.
Paul received God's promise of protection and fruit in Corinth which gave him courage to preach the gospel boldly to all men. We ought to take courage from the knowledge of God's sovereignty both in our protection and the salvation of the lost.
God providentially supplied all of Paul's needs through people both known to him and unknown. We must trust God to supply every need and commit ourselves and our resources to his wise hand.
True worship involves humbling ourselves before the Almighty and exalting Him. We ought to repent from our sin and to our Savior because God is unmatched in glory and because we are powerless even to see God apart from His divine revelation.
God has appointed a day of judgment, but offers hope to all who will repent. We must declare God's mercy and long-suffering toward sinners which ought to lead everyone to repentance and faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ.
Though God has been and continues to be actively involved in the affairs of men, his role has largely been ignored by men, and it must be declared to them. We must proclaim God's providential hand over the human race and in the events of history so that men will see the One whom they have blindly missed.
Unbelievers are, by necessity, enslaved in the worship of false gods, and our duty is to expose the truth of their bondage and the hope of Christ. Since those who are lost are bound in sin and enslaved by their desires, we must be moved to declare both the majesty and liberty of God in Christ.
God's word, when it is considered, is powerful to overcome any objection and bring sinners to the Savior. Since God's word is essential to our witness, we must know it and believe it, and persuade unbelievers to read it. We must be people of the Book.
Becoming a Christian means being a follower of Christ and an example to others. If we are truly saved we ought to follow the godly example of those who are also following Christ, and grow to become such an example to others.
True evangelism requires a commitment to the Holy Spirit's power instead of our own. We must commit to preaching the power of God in salvation – it is his doing.
Election to salvation can only be known by the response of faith, hope, and love. We ought to evaluate ourselves to make sure that our response to the gospel reflects genuine faith, produces real love, and results in our hope in Christ.
The church is God's design for the discipleship of believers and the evangelism of the lost. We must be committed as a church to obedience to the truth, maintaining a godly testimony, and following the godly leaders He has appointed.
God chooses to work through the suffering of his people to bring others to Christ. We must be committed to suffer for the sake of the lost to bring them to Christ.
Satan opposes the work of the gospel by substituting a counterfeit to deceive those who are unaware of the truth. We must guard ourselves from counterfeit Christianity by a commitment to the true gospel, and we must be prepared to oppose those who preach falsely to protect the unwary.
All evangelistic efforts will only be effective as they are led and empowered by the Holy Spirit of God. We must follow the Spirit's guidance, taking every opportunity to proclaim the gospel and trust the Spirit to open the eyes of the blind.
We ought to be willing to do whatever is in our power to reach the lost with the gospel. In order to be ministers of the gospel, we must first be disciples of Christ, second, faithful in the church, and third, willing to sacrifice for the sake of the lost.
Unity does not require uniformity, but it does require humility and self-sacrifice. We ought to submit to one another in love rather than allow disagreements to divide us.
The Holy Spirit leads through wisdom, unity and most importantly the Word of God. To discern God's will for the church we should pursue godly wisdom, Christian unity, and Biblical truth.
True Christian unity is derived from a commitment to the word of God and love for others. Since fellowship cannot occur where there is no commitment to obedience and love, we must join with one another in submission to the word of God and mutual love for one another.
The gospel is the basis for our salvation and our fellowship. We ought to oppose those who deny the true gospel by adding a requirement of works and pursue unity with those who affirm allegiance to the truth.
The ministry of the gospel can only be accomplished by God's grace for God's glory. Since our ministry can only be done by God's grace, we must commend one another to God's grace through prayer and glorify God for his blessing in completing the work.
Making disciples who can withstand persecution and trials is the mission to which Christ has called the church. Since trials are a necessary part of the Christian life, it is imperative that we train up disciples who can continue on in the faith and who can train others.
Those who are lost are blinded by their sin, yet the gospel gives light and life. Since we have been entrusted with the gospel of Jesus Christ, we ought to have pity on those who are in bondage to sin and proclaim the true God, who is the living Creator, patient Judge, and sovereign Lord.
Our focus in ministry ought to be on our mission, not the opposition. Since God empowers His word to change hearts and minds, let us preach the word faithfully and serve others continually no matter what kind of opposition we face.
The gospel message must be received by faith. Since the preaching of the gospel has been ordained by God, and the hope of the resurrection has been given by God, we must respond to the gospel, by faith unto eternal life, or by unbelief unto judgment.
God's providential control of history is displayed in His establishing Israel as a nation and raising up the Messiah from David's line. Since God sovereignly controls the events of history, including the preaching of the gospel, we ought to recognize the divine opportunity that is present whenever the gospel is presented.
The Spirit leads our mission, providing the necessary wisdom and power to overcome every hindrance to preaching and receiving the gospel. Since the Holy Spirit sends us out as missionaries, we must trust that He will supply power and wisdom, and we must stand against false teachers as we proclaim the truth.
A true NT church is believers, baptized, joined and hence, a church. Since we are a local, NT church, we ought to strive to obey the Holy Spirit's leading always, fulfilling our discipleship mandate, and bringing glory to God.
Every Christian is called to minister to others through relationships. Since we are all called to serve others, we need to build relationships for discipleship, encouragement, and comfort.
Pride leads to violence, unbelief, and destruction. Since pride leads to self-worship it is contrary to the nature of a true disciple, and we ought to confess it, forsake it, and pursue humility as God's servants.
Prayer is the vital response of God's people when faced with any sort of need. If God truly responds to prayer, then we ought to pray as individuals and as a church for God's will to be done in every situation.
True salvation transforms weakness into strength and fear into courage. If we truly know Christ, we ought to recognize the transforming power of God's grace in our lives, and if we have not experienced that transformation, we may not know God's grace.
Each believer is to give willingly and generously when faced with another's need, showing brotherly love and wisdom. We ought to identify needs which we are able to meet and move deliberately to do whatever is in our power to meet them.
We ought to seek out opportunities to encourage others in their spiritual growth and service for God. In order to be ministers of encouragement, we must spur others on toward spiritual maturity, seeing the potential that others overlook, and elevating others while humbling ourselves.
God determines the means and method of our salvation and entrance into his church. Since God rules over all, we must repent of our sin and trust Christ in accordance with the revealed Word and enter into the church by believer's baptism.
Every man needs the gospel, whether pagan or religious, Jew or Gentile. Since even the religious and moral man needs the gospel, we must be willing to share it with all men without prejudice.
The same power Christ used on earth is found in the church, which carries the powerful message of salvation. We have God's promise of the saving power of the gospel confirmed by his miraculous works through his disciples.
True disciples demonstrate a changed lifestyle and a bold witness for Christ. If we have truly received Christ, others ought to see the change in our lives and hear it from our own lips.
Humble service to God is confident in his will and obedient to his Word. Since God has given us abundant instruction in his Word, we ought to trust that he will work out his will in his way and simply obey what we know to do.
Repentance and faith lead to a complete transformation. True salvation will change the way we view the truth, our own works, and the wisdom and power of the gospel. If we have been truly saved, we will receive God's truth willingly, trust his strength implicitly, and share his message with urgency.
The account of Philip and the Eunuch shows that the gospel brings outcasts into fellowship with God. We must take the message of restoration and hope to the outsiders and outcasts, showing them that fellowship with God is possible if they will believe and are baptized as followers of Christ.
As the gospel spreads to the city of Samaria, the account of a sorcerer named Simon reveals that saving faith always includes repentance, and repentance-less faith cannot not save.
The persecution experienced by the early church revealed the true nature of the faith. We must cultivate a genuine commitment to evangelism and truth while we enjoy peace, because when trouble comes, our priorities will be revealed, not formed.
When they rose up to stone him, Stephen's opponents proved they rejected Christ just as their ancestors had done. We must trust in God's deliverer, Christ, who is the image of the invisible God and whose presence continues through the Spirit in the hearts of believers.
The life of Joseph, as told by Stephen, demonstrates that God is faithful even when we are not, and that he can be trusted to bless those who trust his word and humble those who rebel against his will.
Stephen begins to speak to the angry mob which opposed him of Abraham, and how he exemplified faith in and obedience to God's Word. Following Abraham's example, we ought to believe God's Word alone and obey his commands, even when their end is incomprehensible to us.
Stephen, a servant of the church at Jerusalem, presents a model of service in the church and the reward of faithfulness. As disciples and servants of Christ, we ought to be faithful to the church of God and available to serve the people of God, then we will know the power of God and reflect the glory of God.
When internal conflict arose in the church at Jerusalem, the apostles proposed a solution which the church body enacted. Disunity is a problem, but we must maintain right priorities even in seeking unity.
The apostles of Jesus and the Jewish leaders measured success in very different ways: visible and measurable results are not a true measure of success, instead it is faithfulness to the truth that God has revealed.
After discipline is practiced in the church, the lost were attracted to its unclouded message. We ought to practice discipline personally by judging ourselves before judging others, and corporately by removing unrepentant sin from the church.
Devotion to Christ results in devotion to the church, but duplicity is borne out of Satan's destructive influence in our lives and in the church.
Christ is the only person capable and qualified to save, and we have a moral obligation to respond to His person and work as revealed in Peter's sermons. Jesus' name alone has the authority to forgive sins as well as heal the sick and lame, and we are responsible to trust in him.
Peter and John manifested the power of Christ on earth by healing a man who was lame. Like them, we ought to bear witness to Christ and his power to forgive sins of all who believe.
The first church was committed to Biblical teaching, fellowship, and prayer. If today's church is to enjoy growth, peace, and joy, we must commit ourselves to these same things.
Peter's sermon at Pentecost demonstrates how urgently we need to proclaim the gospel and how important it is for the lost to respond.
We learn about how the early Christians sought God's will. In order to have wisdom to discern God's direction we must depend on Him in prayer, obey His revealed Word, submit to His Spirit's guidance, and trust Him to protect us from error.
Ministry requires perseverance, unity and prayerful dependence on God's power and provision. The apostles give an example we should follow as believers and as a church: commit to faithfully gather, put aside our differences and preferences, and pray for God's work to be done by His Spirit.
Jesus offered several promises to his disciples to enable them to give testimony of the things they had seen and heard concerning him. These include the indwelling Holy Spirit, the power to be witnesses, and the assurance of Christ's return.