Occoquan Bible Church | Sermons: Recent Episodes
Occoquan Bible Church
Sermons preached at Occoquan Bible Church. We are located at 3700 Old Bridge Rd, Woodbridge, VA 22192. Sunday worship services are held at 8:30 and 11:00am. Visit obc.org for more information.
Our Mission: As a family of believers centered on the gospel, Occoquan Bible Church exists to glorify God in life together, by magnifying Christ from all the Scriptures, maturing saints for every good work, making disciples from all nations, and moving out to all places with the good news.
Dear OBC Family, When it comes to the idea of liturgy, you may find yourself thinking that this is something High Church Anglicans or Roman Catholics do, but not Bible Church evangelicals. Equally, the word itself may be new or unfamiliar, even though leitourgeō is used throughout the New Testament. If asked to explain what liturgy is, most who have come to faith in modern evangelical churches might not have an immediate answer. But I guarantee you, if you have been in church for any length of time, you are more familiar with what liturgy is than you realize.
Every Sunday, you are called to worship with Scripture, and on many Sunday’s you have confessed your faith as we have recited the Apostles or the Nicene Creed. Likewise, we have corporately confessed our sins and heard the good words of pardon. And if you are baptized member of our church, you have also partaken of the bread and the cup. So, whether you know it or not, you already have a certain competence to the liturgy. Even more, going beyond the liturgical elements just mentioned, OBC’s Sunday worship has matured too. This has included our song selection, our single-service, and our weekly communion. All of these have changed (for the better) over the last decade.
Put all that together and you have a good foundation for understanding liturgy, even if you weren’t thinking about it. But now, it is time to think about it and to go from doing the right thing to knowing why we are doing the right thing.
For this reason and more, we are beginning a new sermon series entitled, On Earth as it is in Heaven. This sermon title comes from the center of the Lord’s Prayer (Matt. 6:10). But more than that, it is the aim of every Sunday gathering. When we gather on the Lord’s Day, we are not simply coming to enjoy heavenly thoughts while we remain on earth. Rather, as we will see most explicitly this Sunday, we are actually ascending the hill of the Lord to meet with God who comes to meet with us. Truly, if only spiritually, gathered worship is a time where heaven touches earth and God’s saints commune with their Father in heaven.
Still, to see that invisible reality, we need to consider what Scripture says about worship. So, for the next eight Sundays (as the Lord allows), we will focus our time on answering questions like these:
Where are we when we worship?
Who is present when we worship?
What are we doing when we worship?
When are we commanded to worship?
These questions and more will animate our time. And it is my hope and prayer that by means of this sermon series, it will not only purify our worship, but it will mature all of us in our communion with God. For in fact, how we worship is determinative for everything else about us—just read Psalm 115.
So, take time to pray for this sermon series and for your own heart to grow in understanding of what it means to come and worship God. My prayer is that we will all delight more in the liturgy of the Lord’s Day and that over the next eight Sundays, the Lord will purify our praise and glorify his Son in our midst. For this Sunday, take time to read Hebrews 12:18–29. That is where we will begin our time, as we think about where we are when come to church on Sunday. And to see the whole blog on our new series, visit the OBC website.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on the Lord’s Day.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Hebrews 12:18-29
What does liturgy mean? And what churches have a liturgy?
Why does liturgy matter? What does 2 Samuel 6 teach us?
Where are we when we go to church? What does Hebrews 12 say?
How does the Old Testament help us understand the language of Mount Zion?
What is the contrast between Sinai and Zion meant to teach us?
Read Hebrews 12:22–24. Who are the seven different people named? What does that mean?
How does the location of worship (ascending the hill of the Lord) impact you? Your worship? Your preparation for Sunday?
What encouragement is found in considering the unshakable nature of God’s heavenly mountain?
What is shaking in the world today? How does worshiping God (in heaven!) encourage you amidst the shaking?
What else did you learn about God and his instructions for worship?
Are you walking in holiness and honor according to God’s call? This week’s text in 1 Thessalonians is vital for understanding God’s will for your life and for considering your relationship to God, the church, and the world. It is also a word of encouragement for a church that is walking in faithfulness in the midst of Thessalonica’s immorality.
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
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As you look back at this Sunday’s Scripture text and sermon, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?
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What does this text reveal to us about the character and work of our Triune God?
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What is the Thessalonian church doing right that they should do “more and more”?
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What is the nature of Paul’s instructions to them? Consider verses 2 and 8.
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What are the two ways of walking that we see in this text? What does it look like to walk and please God, and to walk properly before outsiders?
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Consider how Paul calls and instructs the church in purity. What does he reveal about the nature of immorality, and the nature of holiness?
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What is it that helps one to walk in holiness?
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What are ways for the church to grow in holiness? How does this reflect one’s relationship to God?
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How would you counsel someone who is apathetic when it comes to pursuing holiness? What are motives for holiness?
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How should we respond to this text?
We know the grief of being separated from loved ones. When distance or circumstances make it impossible to be physically present with those we love, letter writing, phone, or video are no replacement. We know something is wrong if one would prefer to eat Thanksgiving Dinner on a video call instead of at the same table. Zoom calls are no substitute for family reunions. As this age moves away from the physical world and more toward digital connectivity, it is all the more important that we consider the essential nature of face-to-face fellowship in the local church.
This Sunday we will return to 1 Thessalonians and consider God’s purposes for our face-to-face fellowship. I invite you to read 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13 in preparation for worship. We will consider Paul’s separation from the Thessalonians, Timothy’s mission to encourage them, Timothy’s report which encouraged Paul, and Paul’s prayer for reunion with them. Take time to meditate on this text and pray for the work of God’s Word in us as we come to worship Him this Sunday.
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13
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As you look back at this Sunday’s Scripture text and sermon, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?
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What does this text reveal to us about the character and work of our Triune God?
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What does this text teach us about separation and reunion? (2:17-18; 3:11-13)?
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What do we learn about joy and fellowship? (2:19-20; 3:9-10)?
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Describe Paul’s concern for the spiritual welfare of the Thessalonians. What might it look like for you to share in this kind of concern for your brothers and sisters in Christ?
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Consider the nature of afflictions. How did Paul prepare them for affliction? What are temptations of affliction? How does one remain steadfast?
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What does biblical encouragement look like? How does Timothy encourage the Thessalonians? How do they encourage Paul?
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What is irreplaceable about face-to-face fellowship?
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Consider the closing words of this passage (vv. 11-13), and the language connected to the return of the Lord (2:19, 3:13). What should our fellowship lead to?
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How should we respond to this text?
Do you welcome and receive the Word of God for what it truly is? The Bible is the true Word of God. Though we believe this, we need reminders of even the most basic tenets of our faith. Sometimes we can take for granted and undervalue that which should be most dear to us. In 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16 we will see how the Thessalonian church welcomed the Word which is for the salvation of the world, and how this stands in sharp contrast with those who oppose the Word.
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16
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As you look back at this Sunday’s Scripture text and sermon, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?
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What does this text reveal to us about the character and work of our Triune God?
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What is Paul thankful for in the Thessalonian church?
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What does true reception of God’s Word look like? What is evidence of the Thessalonians’ reception of God’s Word (v. 14)?
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What are ways that you are observing the work of God’s Word in the lives of the saints at OBC? In the lives of your family? In your life?
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Consider why Paul describes the persecutions of the church. How is the experience of the Thessalonians similar or different from the churches in Judea?
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What does Paul reveal about the nature of opposition to the gospel?
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Why is the Word of God worth suffering persecution over? How did Paul prepare the Thessalonians for suffering, and what does it look like to prepare ourselves for suffering?
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As we think about the Christian life, we usually think of the imitation of Christ. Here in verse 14, we see the imitation of faithful churches. Why is it important to know of other faithful churches and Christians? How might Christian history and biography help us?
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How should we respond to this text?
Are you walking in a manner worthy of God who has called you into his kingdom and glory? This high and glorious calling has significant bearing on how we conduct ourselves, as we should be seeking to please God who tests our hearts. Moreover, if God has entrusted us with the gospel, what does it look like to be faithful stewards of such a gift? We will be thinking about all of these things and more as we return to 1 Thessalonians and consider Paul’s example for the church in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. Read this text in preparation for worship and prayerfully consider how you might grow in loving the Lord and his church.
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
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As you look back at this Sunday’s Scripture text and sermon, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?
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What does this text reveal to us about the character and work of our Triune God?
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Consider Paul’s example of bold stewardship of the gospel despite suffering and shameful treatment. What temptations arise when facing opposition? What is the root of courage and faithful stewardship of the gospel?
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Notice how Paul speaks more than once of God and the Thessalonian church serving as witnesses of his conduct (vv. 5, 10). Why is this significant?
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What are the common ministry practices and motives of grifters, self-promoters, and false teachers (vv. 3, 5-6)? How do you recognize this?
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How does Paul use parenting to illustrate the work of the gospel? What distinctions do you see between Paul’s examples of mother and father? What does this teach us about gospel ministry? What does this teach us about parenting?
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How might care for a “baby Christian” look different from care for those who can walk?
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What might we learn from Paul’s affection and conduct toward the church? How does this encourage us in stewardship of the gospel and love for the church?
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What characterizes one who walks worthy of God who has called us into his kingdom and glory?
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How should we respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
This Sunday we will also begin a new sermon series in 1 Thessalonians. Though Paul’s other letters (Romans, 1 Corinthians, Galatians, etc.) are better known, this short letter deserves our attention and it is brimming with gospel truth and encouragement. Like Paul, it is right that we would give thanks to the Lord for the Thessalonians’ example of faithfulness. Not only are they known for their imitation of Christ, but they have followed the example of other faithful churches. And as they are walking in the gospel and loving one another, Paul encourages them “to do so more and more.” As we spend the next two months in Thessalonians, we will consider how the gospel changes us, shapes our fellowship, and moves us to walk in holiness as we wait for our Lord’s return.
I encourage you to read the entire book (five chapters) before we gather for worship this Sunday. To learn more about the Thessalonians and get some helpful historical context for this letter, you can read Luke’s account of Paul’s second missionary journey in Acts 17:1-15.
I pray that the Lord would strengthen us by his grace as we walk through 1 Thessalonians. May we grow in our love for the Lord and for one another as we walk together in faith, hope, and love while we await the return of our Lord.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
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As you look back at this Sunday’s sermon and Scripture text, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?
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Sometimes we can gloss over the opening verses of the epistles. What truths should we be noticing in verse 1?
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How does Acts 17:1-15 help us to understand the background to this letter?
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Consider Paul’s prayerful thanksgiving for the church. What is he thankful for? What are some practical ways to grow in praying for the church?
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What does this text reveal to us about the character and work of our Triune God?
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What is the relationship between faith, hope, and love? Where do we see faith, hope, and love in this this morning’s text?
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What is evidence of God’s choosing (or “election”)? What does true reception of the gospel look like?
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How has the gospel changed the Thessalonians? What does transformation look like?
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In what ways should we aspire to imitate the faith, hope, and love of the Thessalonians?
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How should we respond to this text?
Many are the reasons we should be on our knees in prayer. In the fourth stanza of Psalm 119, the psalmist speaks of some of the realities that have moved him to prayer, including his weakness, sorrow, temptation, ignorance, and his great need for the Lord’s grace. We don’t have it all together, but we have wonderful promises in God’s Word. And as the Psalmist prays for the Lord to give life and strength according to the promises of Scripture, so also we should be encouraged to pray.
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 119:25-32
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As you look back at this text and Sunday’s sermon, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?
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What does this text reveal about the character and work of our Triune God?
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What movement can you trace through this stanza? How does the psalmist turn from following his own ways?
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What does the psalmist do in vv. 25-32? What is the Lord doing, or asked to do? Compare and contrast these. What might we learn from this?
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What does this psalm teach us about repentance and faith?
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What does it look like for us to cling to God’s testimonies?
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In the context of this psalm, what does it mean to be “put to shame”? What are the promises of God on this point?
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How does one grow in love for the Lord? How are one’s affections increased? What does this look like?
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What does it look like to read this stanza in the light of Christ’s death and resurrection?
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How should we respond to this text?
Before you listen to this sermon, read Psalm 119:17-24 and pray for the Lord to give grace that you may behold his wonders.
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 119:17-24
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As you look back at this Sunday’s sermon and Psalm 119, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?
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How does this stanza (vv. 17-24) speak about the psalmist’s identity? What is revealed about the psalmist’s spiritual condition? What are his circumstances?
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Consider each pair of verses. What is the psalmist seeking from God?
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What does this stanza reveal about the character and being of God? About the works of God?
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Reflect on the psalmist’s desires and emotions. How does this encourage or challenge you?
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Consider this stanza in light of the gospel. Christ has died, Christ has risen, and Christ will come again. The Spirit has been given to the Church. How should we read this stanza in light of the realities and promises of the New Covenant?
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How might this stanza shape the way you approach the Word of God?
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To what end do you seek the Lord’s blessing? Consider the priorities of the psalmist.
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What are right applications of this text for us today?
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How should we respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
The troubles and worries of the world can sometimes feel overwhelming, even for Christians. What is your refuge? Are you tempted to distraction, or do you refresh your soul by drinking from the river of life? This Sunday we turn again to the Psalms of the Sons of Korah for a reminder of just how present the Lord is in whatever we are walking through.
I invite you to read Psalm 46 in preparation for worship. As you read, pay attention to the reasons why Jesus Christ is the only refuge that can be trusted. I pray the Lord will open the eyes of hearts Sunday to receive what he has prepared for us.
I look forward to worshiping our Lord with you this Sunday.
In Christ,
Pastor Jeff
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 46
Consider Psalm 46. How would you summarize the main idea or theme?
What is the context of verse 10? Note: It’s often used in “Christian” art with serene backdrops. Is this appropriate?
What organization do you notice to the psalm? (Look for repetition of words, phrases, or similar ideas)
Who are the characters in the psalm, and what are their actions?
The circumstances in the psalm appear fearful (vv. 2-3, v. 6a). Why is there an absence of fear?
Consider the river of v.4. What is the psalmist describing? Where else do you see this imagery in Scripture?
What are the imperatives of the psalm? What does God command?
To what end does God bring an end to wars and destroy weapons?
Consider v. 8, and v. 10a, and compare with Exodus 14:13. Considering where we are in redemptive history, what does it look like for us to apply this text?
How should we respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
A President that may or may not have an adequate degree of cognitive ability to lead the country. An opposing candidate who is almost assassinated. A Vice-President who has been rewriting the summary of her official duties for the past almost four years. An Olympics opening ceremony that openly mocks Christians and flaunts sexual depravity. It reminds me of the lyrics to a popular early 1980s song, Mad World.
But God! For us as Christians, there is no occasion for despair or anxiety. Why? Aren’t we supposed to be sober-minded? Doesn’t that mean, as Christians, that we assess the situation realistically and gird ourselves for action? Yes. A thousand times, yes. But what does it mean to view the current state of our country and world with a sober-minded realism?
As we continue our summer study of the Psalms of the Sons of Korah, we find our answer in Psalm 47. Psalm 47 is a jubilant hymn celebrating God's kingship. It is one of the "enthronement psalms" in the Book of Psalms. This psalm of the sons of Korah exuberantly proclaims God's sovereignty over all nations and peoples. The psalm's structure revolves around repeated calls for praise and joyful worship, emphasizing God's role as the supreme ruler of the earth. God has reigned. He presently reigns. And he will reign forever.
This psalm also has a broader prophetic significance, pointing to the future reign of the Messiah over all creation. The fact that God has “gone up” points to Christ's ascension and his ultimate dominion over the world. The psalm's vivid imagery of God "ascending" with shouts of joy and the sound of trumpets is linked to Jesus' ascension into heaven. The central message of Psalm 47 is one of universal worship and recognition of God's kingship. It calls for everyone, regardless of national or ethnic background, to acknowledge and celebrate God's rule with unrestrained joy and praise.
In preparation for our time of worship of this Savior God who reigns, read Psalm 47 and its companion Psalm 46, which Pastor Jeff will preach next week. As you do, reflect on God’s rule over all the earth and Christ’s rule in your life. Also, prepare to clap and shout. I know we are reformed in our theology, but come on—we are celebrating the King who is over all the earth!
For God’s glory and our rejoicing,
Pastor Rod
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 47
Read and consider Psalm 47. What is the main theme?
How is Psalm 47 arranged? What is the progression from section to section?
How does the psalmist speak about the rule and reign of God as King?
What is a right response to God’s kingship? What responses do you see in this psalm?
Does the Kingship of God stir your emotions? Why or why not?
What is the work of God as King? What is the King’s relationship to his people? What does He do for His people?
How do God’s people relate to Him as their King?
Consider Christ’s resurrection, ascension, and enthronement. How do we experience the reign of Christ today?
How should we respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
Does sorrow provoke you to draw near to the Lord, or does suffering tempt your heart to forsake Him? This Sunday we turn again to a lament in the Psalms of the Sons of Korah as the people of God are experiencing great suffering at the hands of their enemies. I invite you to read Psalm 44 in preparation for worship. As you read, pay attention to the faith of the psalmist and his urgent cry for help and redemption. May God’s Word instruct our hearts and direct our eyes to Christ!
I look forward to worshiping our Lord with you this Sunday.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 44
What is the lament of the Psalmist?
How does the Psalmist describe God’s character and work?
Consider the example of the fathers (vv. 1-3) and the faith of their sons (vv. 4-8). What does it look like to imitate this faithfulness?
Look for voice changes in the psalm. Where do you see singular or plural personal pronouns, and how might this psalm have been performed?
How does the Psalmist understand the suffering that Israel is experiencing?
When you experience suffering, how does Scripture guide you to interpret the cause or purpose of your suffering? What presumptuous conclusions must we guard against?
Consider how Psalm 44:22 is used by the apostle Paul in Romans 8. How does Paul use Psalm 44 as he speaks about the sufferings of the church?
How does Christ ultimately answer the prayer of the psalmist?
How should we respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
Looking back to the first century, there were many threats for the early church. False doctrine was being promoted, some had swerved from the truth, and others had shipwrecked their faith.
In 1 Timothy 1, Paul charged Timothy with specific actions he must take in order to care for and protect the Ephesian church.
This Sunday we’re going to take a detour from the book of Genesis and we will consider what 1 Timothy 1 teaches us about doctrinal fidelity. How should we think about faithfulness to the gospel in an age of compromise?
I encourage you to read 1 Timothy 1 in preparation for worship, and I look forward to seeing you this Sunday!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions (1 Timothy 1)
What challenges is the Ephesian church facing, and what is the charge Paul gave to Timothy to care for the church?
What cautions and encouragements do you observe in this chapter?
What is the aim and end result that Paul is seeking for the Ephesian church through Timothy’s ministry?
How might the law be misused, and what is the right use of the law? What is the law’s function toward the lawless? How should God’s law be applied?
Consider how Paul moves from law to gospel. Why do we need both? What happens if you only have one?
How does Paul respond to the mercy of God in the gospel?
Consider how Paul shares his testimony (vv. 12-17). How does he understand his sin in relationship to God’s mercy?
What does it look like to “wage the good warfare” vs making shipwreck of one’s faith?
What should faithful stewardship of the gospel look like?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
When was the last time you saw a rainbow? And what did you think when you saw it? What did you remember?
On Sunday, we will see what God has to say about rainbows and what the meaning of the rainbow is. Indeed, the rainbow is a sign of God’s grace and we should remember the covenant with Noah that is still in effect today.
To prepare for Sunday, read Genesis 9, as well as Isaiah 54. We will be reminded of God’s promise of grace this Sunday and how that promise encourages us to continue to walk confidently with God.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday as we worship God together.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 9:8 – 17)
Consider the text for this week. What stands out to you?
How do you think about the flood? The world that came after it? Is Genesis 1–11 more like a galaxy far, far away? Or does it influence how you think about the world?
How does the rest of the Bible pick up and apply this new beginning?
What are the parts of the world that Genesis 8:20–9:7 describe?
What is the pattern of “world building” that is found here? How does that support your views of the world? How does that invite change?
How is this new beginning after the Flood distinct from the first beginning in Genesis 1-2?
What change did the exaltation of Christ bring to the world? And does that mean for us?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
What is the world like? Is it like the beginning? Or is it completely different after the flood? And what does it matter?
While we are often tempted to simply think about what comes next in our own lives, families, careers, or ministries, we need to slow down and consider the stage on which we live, move, and have our being. We are creatures made in the image of God, and that means we need to know who God is and what he has made. And also, that means we need to know what he has remade after the flood.
This Sunday we will continue to look at Noah. Only now we move from his ark to his altar. And from his salvation to the creation of a new society. In Genesis 8:20–9:7 we will see at least five building blocks to civilization and also a particular order to arrange them.
To prepare, take time to read Genesis 9. Pray that God would give us insight and interest into the world he has made, so that we might see where we fit in his creation and how his salvation in Christ is the only way to see the world put to rights.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday. And this week, I am especially thankful for many of the graces God has given to our church. I wrote them down in a blogpost and I would encourage you to read them—10 Reasons I Am Grateful to God for OBC.
I bless God for the work of grace he has done at our church and I look forward to singing his praises with you, his saints, on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 8:20-9:7)
Consider the text for this week. What stands out to you?
How do you think about the flood? The world that came after it? Is Genesis 1–11 more like a galaxy far, far away? Or does it influence how you think about the world?
How does the rest of the Bible pick up and apply this new beginning?
What are the parts of the world that Genesis 8:20–9:7 describe?
What is the pattern of “world building” that is found here? How does that support your views of the world? How does that invite change?
How is this new beginning after the Flood distinct from the first beginning in Genesis 1-2?
What change did the exaltation of Christ bring to the world? And does that mean for us?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
As we come to Memorial Day weekend, we will take our time remembering that God remembered (Gen. 8:1).
Indeed, in a world awash with sin, sorrow, loss, and longing, we sometimes wonder—aloud or in quiet desperation—does God remember? If God is for us, why does it seem like he is so long in coming, answering prayer, or changing circumstances? Equally, if our sin has resulted in consequences that we cannot fix, we might wonder –will God come and repair the damage?
To all these questions and more, we cannot deny the fact that life in a fallen world is hard. And when we come to God’s Word, we need to remember that God does not forget his promises or his people. Instead, he always comes to save, repair, and restore at just the right time.
This Sunday, we will see just that, as 8 image-bearers on the ark are brought safely through the flood. After nearly a year, God brings Noah, his family, and the animals out of the ark and into a new world. And in this context, God begins again.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Genesis 8–9. This will be our third trip through the story of Noah and this time we will focus on God’s renewal of creation. Please pray for our time together, that we might delight in the God who remembers and who makes all things new.
We also invite you to return in the evening for our screening of Is Genesis History? Mountains After the Flood at 6:00pm.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 8:1-9:7)
Consider the text for this week. What stands out to you?
How long was the ark occupied? Consider the time from the beginning of the flood until they disembarked.
What is Noah’s first action after disembarking? How does relate to Genesis 4? And what does that teach us?
Consider the parallels between Genesis 1 and this morning’s text. What is repeated or modified when you compare God’s blessing and instructions to Adam and then to Noah?
Consider the promise of God (8:21–22). What kind of assurance does this provide?
What is revealed about mankind’s condition? What is affirmed about the image of God?
How is mankind’s relationship with creatures changed?
Where do you see judgment followed by renewal in the Scriptures?
What does renewal for the saints look like today? What does the Scripture promise about judgment and New Creation in the future?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
What does baptism have to do with the flood? Or to reverse it, what does the flood have to do with baptism?
This Sunday, we will discover that baptism is not simply an ordinance that divides churches—do we baptize infants, or only believers? (The answer is believers 😀). In answer to the question, baptism is actually the way God has decided to destroy sin and bring new life.
Baptism is something that every generation of God’s people have experienced. Baptism is also something that Christ himself does today, as he gives the waters of life from heaven when he ‘baptizes’ someone with the Holy Spirit. Churches follow suit with water baptism as they baptize on earth those who have been baptized from heaven.
Indeed, baptism is a major theme that runs through the whole Bible. And on Sunday, we will see how the waters of judgment in Genesis 7 serve as the headwaters for baptism in the Bible and even today.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Genesis 7-8, as well as 1 Peter 3. Notice how Peter looks to Noah to explain salvation with the baptism of Noah’s ark. And pray for God to pour out on us his living water.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and worshiping the One who sits above the floods!
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 7:1–24)
What stands out to you after reading this text and listening to Sunday’s sermon?
What questions do you have?
As you read this text, remember that God is the primary actor here. What is God doing?
Consider the use of “God” (Elohim) and “LORD” (YHWH) in this passage. What do you notice?
What repetition do you notice?
What does this repetition highlight and emphasize in this history of the Flood?
What is the significance of the LORD shutting them into the ark?
Read 1 Peter 3:18–22. Consider the relationship between baptism and the Flood. What is Peter teaching?
Read 2 Peter 3:1–7. What are implications of the Flood for us today?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
At the end of the nineteenth century, Abraham Kuyper, the Dutch polymath who was at various times a pastor, theologian, editor, educator, and Prime Minister of the Netherlands, wrote a volume addressing common grace. Common grace is the doctrine that says God shows varying degrees of kindness to all creation, not just those who trust in Christ.
And importantly, Kuyper shows how common grace is related to Noah and the covenant that God makes with him and through him to all creation. Indeed, as we will see over the next few weeks, this a covenant that continues today, as the rainbow bears witness to God’s promise to never destroy the earth again with water.
Yet, I wonder: when we see a rainbow do we remember Genesis 9 and the grace of God? Or do we think first and foremost about how the sun shown through a water droplet to create the array of colors? Or maybe we think of some legend related to leprechauns and gold?
Whatever we think about, Kuyper is right to call our attention back to God and his Word.
Many people, including pious children of God, behold and admire the rainbow without being aware of the underlying covenant that is so powerfully addressing them. For that reason, we must begin with placing the lofty significance of that Noahic covenant in more radiant light once again. It must come alive for us once again, address us once again, and become for us once again an essential component of the grace of God that sustains us.
Indeed, we need to recover the rainbow, which today has undergone a transformation that this nineteenth century Christian could never have imagined. But more than restoring a proper understanding of the rainbow, we need know what the story of Noah tells us about God, his preservation of the world, and his plan of salvation.
Beginning this Sunday, we will begin to see what the story of Noah is about and how the ark, the flood, the animals, and the rainbow, tell us something about salvation, baptism, creation, and covenant—to name only a few. Indeed, Genesis 1–11 gives us an inspired interpretation of the patterns that God used in the Bible and even today to bring his purposes to effect. And lest we misunderstand the Bible and our own time, we need to see carefully what Scripture says to us about Noah and his ark.
To that end, I would encourage you to read Genesis 6–9 before Sunday and also to read a short article on typology. Typology is something we discussed in Sunday School a few weeks ago and it something that will repeat in the rest of Genesis. By definition, biblical types are historical persons, events, or institutions that are assigned by God to foreshadow later and greater realities that relate to the person and work of Jesus Christ. For us, it is impossible to read about Noah without seeing him as a type of Christ. And so, rehearsing what a type is will be helpful for you as you prepare for Sunday.
In all, pray for God to open our eyes to see his plans of grace in the historical events of Noah. On Sunday we will begin looking at Genesis 6–9. And we will continue to fix our gaze on Christ through him for the next few weeks. As the Lord allows, I look forward to sharing insights with you from Genesis 6–9.
May the Lord be glorified by our time together!
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 6:9 – 7:10)
Compare and contrast the description of Noah and the description of the earth (Gen 6:9-12, 2 Pet 2:5).
What does it mean to walk with God? How does Scripture describe this?
What does it look like for God’s people to walk with Him?
Consider what this looked like (1) before the Flood, (2) in the nation of Israel before Christ, and (3) today.
How does Jesus describe the days of Noah (Matt 24:36-44)?
What should we learn from God pronouncing his judgment (6:13), and providing instructions for the ark (6:41-21)?
What characterizes Noah’s obedience (6:22-7:5)?
What is righteousness? How is Noah righteous? (See Gen 7:1; Heb 11:7).
What does this narrative teach us about the justice and mercy of God?
Do we live with a sense of the coming judgment of God? Why or why not?
How should we respond to this text?
As a reminder, if you’d like to know more about the biblical idea of giants, you can pick up a copy of Giants: The Sons of the Gods on the bookshelf.
Dear OBC Family,
On Sunday, we take the first step toward understanding the history of the flood—its causes, its characters, and its covenant.
In particular, we will spend time looking at the strange statements found in Genesis 6:1–4. Who were the sons of God? Who were the daughters of man? Who were the Nephilim? How do they relate to one another? And how do they relate to us today? Those questions require care and attention, and we should pray for wisdom as we come to worship on Sunday.
Indeed, it is easy to gloss over these verses as strange relics of a by-gone era, but as we will see there are important aspects of this story that we need to know. To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Genesis 6. You may also find help reading 2 Peter 2 and Jude. These two books look back at Genesis 6 and help us better understand how to read the Old Testament.
Additionally, if you are interested in thinking more about how the New Testament reads the Old and how we should engage with extra-biblical passages, you may find this article helpful.
For all of us, let us pray that the Lord who rules over all creation will pour out his mercy upon us as we gather in his name on Sunday. I look forward to seeing you there, as the Lord allows.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 6:1-8)
What questions do you have after reading this text?
The following questions are largely related to the “sons of God” and giants:
What are the predominant views of the identity of the “sons of God”?
How does the Old Testament use this phrase? (Consider who is in view in Deuteronomy 32:8; Job 1:6; Job 2:1; Job 38:7).
As we look to Scripture to interpret Scripture, how does Jude 1:5-7 compare angels that sinned with Sodom and Gomorrah?
What does Mark 12:25 teach us about angels and the saints in heaven?
How does this apply (or nor apply) to Genesis 6?
What giants do you see in Scripture? Consider the Nephilim (Genesis 6:4; Numbers 13:33) and the “sons of Anak” (Deuteronomy 1:28; 2:10; 9:2; Joshua 14:12-15; 15:13), and the Rephaim or Emim (Deuteronomy 3:11-13). Consider also Goliath (1 Samuel 17), his relatives, and their descendants (1 Chron 20:4-6; 2 Samuel 21:5-17). What repeated themes do you see?
What do you find challenging about these texts, and why?
As we read Genesis 6:1-8, what are the ways in which we observe God’s judgment? Looking at the text, what provokes these judgments?
How do these judgements change humanity?
What characterizes man’s heart, and why?
What is the Bible’s consistent message when it comes to mankind’s condition?
How should we understand the language of God seeing (Gen 6:5) and having regret (Gen 6:6)?
How do we rightly interpret this text without denying the omniscience (Ps 139; Heb 4:12-13; 1 John 3:20) and immutability of God (Num 23:19; Mal 3:6; James 1:17)?
How is Noah distinct from the rest of mankind?
How can one find favor with God? Consider Noah (Heb 11:7; 2 Pet 2:5).
What does this passage teach about God’s world? God’s son? Our salvation?
What questions are left unresolved?
On Sunday, we return to our study of Genesis. And for those who have been waiting to hear about the Nephilim in Genesis 6, you’ll have to wait one more week.
For this Sunday, we have a genealogy to journey. And I say journey, because the names and events related to this list of figures is anything but boring. Indeed, from Seth to Enoch to Noah, we will see an important history that connects Adam to his faithful sons, on the way to a story of giants being destroyed by a global flood. That’s next week (see more below).
As we saw three Sunday’s ago, the sons of Cain pursued all manner of wickedness in Genesis 4. But now, as the sons of Seth begin to call upon the name of the Lord, there is great hope that those who die in faith will be received by the Lord. Or at least, that is the situation for one man by the name of Enoch.
Among the fathers named in Genesis 5, Enoch stands out as a turning point in the story. And more his ascension to heaven, as I will argue, promises mankind that death is not the only option. Instead, there is way of life that comes by walking with God. Yet, walking with God requires more than a daily quiet time, it requires spiritual warfare.
For, as we will see, the generations before Noah are wicked and rebellious, much like our own generation. And thus, from the fighting faith of these fathers, we will see what it looks like to trust God amidst a generation who doesn’t.
To prepare for Sunday, read Genesis 5. But don’t stop there. You will also be helped by reading Jude and Matthew 1. And for the more studious, you would be helped by reading 1 Enoch 6–16. As I mentioned three weeks ago, this passage is not found in the biblical canon, and I don’t treat it as inspired by God and authoritative for doctrine. Nevertheless, this book clearly contributed to the worldview of the Jews in Jesus' day and was quoted by Jude (1 Enoch 1:9 = Jude 14–15). So knowing its contents will help you better understand Genesis 5:1–6:8, as well as the message of Christ’s conquest over the powers and principalities.
Furthermore, as we prepare to tackle giants next week, you might be helped by picking up a copy of Giants: The Sons of the Gods from the bookshelf. Or you can listen to Haunted Cosmos on Giants (Part 1, Part 2). Next week is going to be gigantic . . . and not just because of the Nephilim.
This week and next we will see more clearly how great our risen Christ is! And so, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday as we come and worship our king, the one who reigns over all things in creation—things visible and things invisible too!
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 5)
When you read a genealogy in the Bible, what are you looking for?
What are they used for?
And how can you over-read them?
Or under-read them?
What comes before the genealogy in Genesis 5 and what comes after?
How does the genealogy help us understand both sections? And vice versa?
There are four key figures in the genealogy (Adam, Enoch, Lamech, Noah). What does the passage tell us about each? How does these vignettes add to our understanding of the passage?
There are also minor figures (Seth, Jared, Methuselah). What do we know about them? What role do the names of these men play?
What is the recurring theme in Genesis 5?
What does death teach about God and his world?
And how does the theme of death highlight Enoch’s ascension?
What is the relationship between the sons of Cain (Gen 4:17–24) and the sons of Seth (Gen. 5)?
Look especially at the seventh generation. Cf. Jude 14–15.
What connections does Genesis 5 have with the New Testament?
Cf. Matthew 1:1–17; Hebrews 11:1–7; Jude 14–15.
What do these connections tell us? What does it mean that Christ is a new Enoch?
What other questions do you have?
Are you ready to talk about giants (Nephilim) next week?
In Acts 13:1–3, the church in Antioch gathered to worship the Lord. And as they worshiped, the Holy Spirit identified Barnabas and Saul for missionary service. In response, the church continued to fast and pray, and then they laid hands on the newfound missionaries and sent them out.
Ever since, faithful churches have followed a similar pattern. They have recognized men called by God preach the Word (see 1 Tim. 4:14), and they have commissioned them to serve as elders locally or missionaries globally.
On Sunday, we have the chance to participate in this missionary drama too. For the last 13 years the Comoglio family have been faithful members of our church. During that time, Ron has served as an elder for nearly a decade. However, in the last year, the Lord has made it clear that he is calling Ron to a ministry of evangelism and encouragement to the public servants in Alabama.
After much prayer and counsel, Ron received a call to go with a ministry called Capitol Commission, and next month he is moving to Alabama to begin that work. As he goes, our church will be one of many that support him. In this way, we participate in the great work of recognizing ministers of the gospel and sending them out into the highways and hedges to share the message of Christ with those who need to hear the gospel.
In celebration and commemoration of this commissioning (which will officially take place in May), Brad Harbaugh, president of Capitol Commission, is coming to bring the Word. He will preach from Psalm 2 and its message that Christ rules over all the governors who rage against God.
In our day, this is a needed message. And one that fits with the ministry that Ron is being sent to fulfill, and one that we need to support as well. So as we prepare for Sunday, let us pray for our gathering and for God to raise up laborers in our church and from our nation to go and speak truth to those in power. On Sunday, that is the message we will hear, and as the Lord allows, I look forward to joining you to worship our risen and reigning Lord.
We are also starting a new Sunday School series this week and invite you to read our blog on Simeon Trust's First Principles for Bible Reading.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Psalm 2)
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What do we know about Psalm 2—in its relationship to the Psalter? And the rest of the Bible?
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Acts 4:25 tells us that David is the author. How does that truth inform our reading of Psalm 2?
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What is the condition of the nations (Psalm 2:1–3)? How did they get that way?
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What is God’s response to the rage of the nations (Psalm 2:4–6)? What is his planned response?
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What is the promise of sonship? And when is this fulfilled? See Acts 13:33; Matthew 28:18.
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What confidence does the Lordship of Christ give to us today? How does that impact our relation to the nations?
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How does the authority of Christ impact the Great Commission? Do we need earthly authorization to preach Christ?
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What is our response to the risen Christ?
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In light of Christ’s Lordship, what is our calling?
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Take time to pray for our nation, the nations, and the gathering of God’s holy nation (the elect from every nation).
Dear OBC Family,
There's an old adage that goes something like this: "In order to get strong, you have to pick up something heavy." Lifting weights builds muscle, and resistance shapes our bodies and makes us stronger. The weight of God's glory likewise shapes us and strengthens us in ways that we can't do ourselves.
This Sunday, we'll take a brief detour from our series on Genesis to ponder how the glory of God affects us and shapes us. We'll look at Exodus 33:12-34:9, and see how Moses encountered God's glory (or some of it) in the wake of his people seeking glory elsewhere. God's glory is foundational for any covenant relationship with him, and it's also foundational in shaping us from the image of ourselves into the image of Christ.
This week we will be having a time of corporate confession. To help you prepare, we are sharingthis Sunday's corporate confession in advance.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor Jared
Discussion & Response Questions (Exodus 33:12 – 34:9)
What have been your previous perceptions about glory?
In Exodus 33, Moses asks the Lord to show him his glory? Why was this an impossible question?
The Lord answers the Moses's plea, but not in the way that Moses expected. How did Yahweh's answer (Ex. 33:19) suit Moses better than what he asked for?
What are some ways that the weight of sin and the weight of the world compete with God's glory?
What are some things that cause us to be short sighted in recognizing God's glory?
What are some ways that we often push against the "resistance training effect" that God's glory has upon us?
What are a few tangible ways that the glory of God can shape how we live?
Because of sin, we're ultimately incapable of truly seeing God's glory on our own. How does the grace of God in the person of Christ help us in this respect?
Worship is why we are here.
When God made us, he created us in his image to worship him. Yet, fallen in Adam, we will not worship God rightly unless God makes us worship him rightly.
Indeed, this is a major point in Genesis 4. The chapter begins with worship, as Adam’s children bring sacrifices to God. And the chapter ends with worship, as Seth calls upon the name of the Lord. And in between, the story of Cain’s family line is also about worship . . . if we have eyes to see.
This Sunday, we will see how Cain’s city-building project is one that exalts the glory of man, not the glory of God. Likewise, the music that fills Genesis 4:17–24 is a testimony to the way humans will sing praise to what they love most. And unless and until God intervenes and gives them a new song, they will sing praises to themselves about themselves.
Even for the church of Jesus Christ, we need the grace of God and the truth of his Spirit to lead us to worship God rightly and righteously. And more, we need the Word of God to teach how we are to worship God. Wonderfully, we have already been taught that worship centers on Jesus Christ and is empowered by the Spirit of Truth. Because Father has given us the Son and the Spirit, we can gather in confidence that our praises will be accepted and pleasing to him. And in that confidence, we will gather for worship on Sunday.
To prepare for Sunday, please read Genesis 4, Psalm 33, and John 4. These passages come together to teach how to worship God truly. And on Sunday, as the Lord allows, I will look forward to gathering with you to do just that.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 4:17 – 26)
What have we seen so far in Genesis 4? How does the place of the story inform the context? What about the people (i.e., the two seeds)?
Where does Genesis 4:17–24 take place? How does that inform our understanding of the passage?
What does the building of a city indicate? In Scripture, who is renowned for building cities (see Gen. 10:11; 11:4–8; Exod. 1:11; Num. 13:22)? Who is renowned for building altars (Gen. 8:20; Gen. 12:7–8; 22:9; 26:5; 35:7; Exod. 17:5; 24:4)?
If city-building is an evidence of unbelief, what do we discover about the other products invented / created in Genesis 4?
What does the building of a city suggest about the people in Cain’s family? What do their names indicate?
What is the story of Lamech? In what ways does this serve as a warning to us?
Compare the teaching of Jesus in relationship to Lamech (Matt 18:21-22). What do you notice?
What is the Christian ethic when it comes to revenge and justice? Consider Romans 12:17-13:4.
The passage finishes with a return to Adam, Eve, and Seth. What does it mean to call upon the name of the Lord? And how does the wickedness of Lamech relate?
What do we learn about worship in Genesis 4? And how should we prioritize our lives accordingly?
What are you building? And where are you putting your trust?
He is risen!
Well actually, depending on when you read this, as you remember Christ’s holy week, it is probable that you will read this before his resurrection on the first day of the week.
Today, as we celebrate Good Friday, we remember the seven sayings of Jesus from the cross. And tonight, we will come to the final statement, where Jesus entrusts himself to his father and he prepares to give up his life. Accordingly, if you read this email today, it might serve you best to ponder what it means that Christ died for our sins and what his seven statements mean to us today. To help with that you might find this short article helpful.
Tomorrow, on Saturday, if you read this email, it will correspond to Holy Saturday—the day when Jesus' body remained dead and buried. Or, as the Apostle’s Creed declares, he descended to the dead (to sheol). In our English language, we often confuse hades (the realm of the dead) with hell (gehenna). But in fact, hades is not the same thing as hell, and Jesus and the apostles knew this. In fact, tonight and on Sunday, we will take some time to think about it too.
It matters where Jesus was when he died. And it matters than the eternal Son of God in his divine nature was not dead, even when he offered his body as a sacrifice for sins. It matters that Christ went and proclaimed victory over the spirits. And it matters that he led a procession of saints from Sheol to Glory in his resurrection. In fact, that is one of the important lessons that comes from Matthew 27:51–54, the passage we will consider Sunday.
On Sunday, we will proclaim that "Jesus Christ is risen indeed!” And we will consider the earth-shaking events of his death and resurrection. To prepare, take time to read Ezekiel 37. It will help give some background to the remarkable fact that dead men rose from their graves to walk around Jerusalem when Jesus Christ rose again. Sunday, we will consider this passage and what it means for Christ and for us.
Until then, plan to join us tonight at 7:00pm, as we gather to celebrate Good Friday. Then, pray for Sunday. Invite friends. And plan to come early to find a seat and welcome visitors. We will only have one service on Sunday at 10:00am. This service will be inside, with overflow seats available as needed. Sunday School will resume next week.
For now, let us pray for Christ to be magnified as we gather tonight and Sunday. For the truth remains the same, that Jesus Christ is risen.
He is risen indeed!
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Matthew 27:51-54)
At easter this year, what is most hope-giving about the resurrection of Christ?
In Matthew’s Gospel, what are the points that he stresses at Christ’s resurrection?
What are some of the ‘earth-shaking’ signs that accompany the death of Christ? What does this indicate?
How does the Old Testament help us understand this passage? Especially Ezekiel 37?
When did the saints rise from the dead? When they enter the city? Why do both of these incidents matter?
What did Christ do when he died and before he was raised from the dead? How did the world change as a result of Christ’s death and resurrection?
What became of these resurrected bodies? What hope does this give to us? What does it say of Christ’s resurrection?
What comfort, encourage, strength does this give you today? Why does death sting “less” today then before Christ’s death and resurrection?
What hope does the promise of Christ’s resurrection give you going forward?
Dear OBC Family,
Last Sunday we saw in Genesis 4:1-7 how God offered grace to Cain when his sacrifice was not accepted. In that sermon, we learned a great deal about the way God expects us to worship him.
This Sunday, we pick up in Genesis 4:8-16 where we will see how Cain’s refusal to worship God in truth and to receive his offer of grace results in a deadly to decision to sacrifice his brother in place of God’s provision of a sin offering.
Again, this passage written down long ago has much to teach us today. We are still a people who worship and what we worship will determine how we live. If we worship God rightly, it leads to living honorably before him, but when we live dishonorably it is because there is something amiss with our worship of God.
On Sunday, we will explore the connection between right worship and right living. And to prepare, let me encourage you to read again Genesis 4. But also take time to look at Psalm 115 and 1 John 3-4. These will help you to see some of the connections between Genesis 4 and ourselves today.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. Let us continue to pray that God would lift our eyes to him, so that we would walk in truth and love, not lies and hate.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 4:8 – 16)
Contrast how Cain responds to God’s questions versus how his parents responded to God’s questions in Genesis 3. What differences do you notice?
Notice how Abel’s blood cries out from the ground. Why is the connection of bloodshed and the land significant?
How does Cain’s curse (4:11-12) build upon the curse of Genesis 3?
Consider the justice and mercy of God in Genesis 4.
How does the New Testament speak about Cain? (Heb 11:4; 1 John 3:11-15; Jude 11)
What is the purpose of the mark of Cain? Is it a curse? A mercy? Historically, how has this idea been abused?
As we consider the unbearable nature of sin and its consequences, what does this teach us?
Abel was a righteous shepherd who was slain for his obedience to God. How does this connect to Zechariah and lead us to Christ? (Matt 23:35, Heb 11:4, 12:24)?
Do you see yourself as your brother’s keeper? Why or why not? What should brotherly love look like?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
For the last six months we have spent our time learning about God’s creation and covenant in Genesis 1–3. This Sunday, we enter a new sermon series on God's salvation and judgment which is seen in the earliest generations of humanity.
From Genesis 4–11, we find that that the mercy and justice of God, first seen in Genesis 3:14–19, is going to continue as it responds to Abel and Cain, Noah and the Nephilim, and Shem and the citizens of Shinar. To begin in Genesis 4:1–7, we will look at the contrasting sacrifices offered by Adam’s first two sons. In one son, faith led to an acceptable sacrifice, while in the other self-reliance invited God’s judgment. From this, we will learn much about God’s grace, God’s law, and God’s gospel.
To prepare for Sunday, therefore, read Genesis 4, Hebrews 11:1-6, and Hebrews 12:18-29. Both passages in the New Testament give us important truths about Cain and Abel, and make connections on how this story from long ago has ongoing relevance for us today.
Let’s pray that as we gather on Sunday, God will give us ears to hear his voice and turn from self-reliance to a faith that receives his salvation. As the Lord allows, I will look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 4:1 – 7)
What does Genesis 4 reveal to us about Adam? Eve? Cain and Abel? God?
What do we learn about humanity? What is the division?
What are the signs of difference between Cain and Abel? What does this have to do with their sacrifice?
What are the details of the sacrifice? Where was it offered? When? Why? How would they know what to do?
How do the specific details of the sacrificial system (see Leviticus) inform the way we think about Genesis 4?
Where do we see the grace of God? The law of God? The gospel of God?
Why is it best to see Genesis 4:7 as an invitation and provision of a sin offering?
What does this passage teach us about worshiping God? And living in fellowship with others?
Dear OBC Family,
If I had to outline Genesis 3, it would fall under the following headings.
Genesis 3:1–6: The Fall.
Genesis 3:7–13: The Fallout.
Genesis 3:14–24: The Way Out.
In these three steps, we get a sense of what happens to the first man and woman. First, seeking to be wise, they became fools. They broke God’s law, ate of the fruit, and invited judgment. Yet, before death came, God came. He entered the garden to find the fallout of sin. And then, after questioning the couple, he pronounced a judgment.
That judgment led to Adam and Eve’s removal from the Garden. Yet, in that good judgment, the Lord God also pronounced good news. In Genesis 3:15 he declared that salvation was coming through the woman’s seed. Next week, we’ll see that promise in full.
But this Sunday we must consider the fallout of Adam’s sin and Eve’s deception. And by looking square in the face of wreckage, it will reveal much about our own sin and its effects. Wonderfully, we can approach this Garden with the full knowledge of Jesus Christ. Yet, we still need to learn afresh how heinous sin is.
And so, as you prepare for Sunday, pray for God to see our sin and to hate our sin. For truly, sin is the source of all death, despair, and destruction. And yet, because we are born in Adam, we do not hate sin—our sin!—as we ought. And that is our aim for Sunday.
To prepare, go ahead and read Genesis 3. You may also find it helpful if you read Matthew 6, which will be connected to Genesis 3 on Sunday.
As the Lord allows, I hope to see you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 3:7 – 13)
What does 3:8 reveal about the fellowship with God that existed prior to sin?
What does this text reveal about the effects of sin upon mankind’s relationship to God?
Consider Adam and Eve’s response to their shame. What is the effect of their clothing? Does clothing allow them to walk with God?
God knows all things. Consider then the significance God’s questions for Adam and Eve in verses 9, 10, and 13. Why does God ask questions?
In what ways do we seek to hide because of our sin? What happens when we hide? What happens when our sin is exposed?
Instead of taking responsibility for sin, consider the blaming that takes place. Who is blamed?
Does blaming another remove one’s responsibility? Why or why not?
How does God deal with our guilt and shame in the Gospel?
What does the Bible teach us about clothing? (Consider how Scripture speaks about clothing from Genesis to Revelation).
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
Without a proper understanding of Genesis 3, it is impossible to understand the world and our place in it.
Accordingly, we will take the next three weeks to examine this important chapter. Beginning with the Serpent entering the garden (v. 1), we will see what happens as Eve is deceived, Adam rebels, both hide, and God comes down to speak to his creation.
Today, the very good world that God made is no longer good. It is now cursed, and it is cursed because of what happened in Genesis 3. And yet, in that cursing there is the promise of salvation—a son who will come from the woman to save the world and destroy the devil (Gen. 3:15). This first gospel promise sets in place the whole story of redemption.
Before getting to the unfolding of that good news, however, we need to understand who the Serpent is, what the Serpent said, and why we should capitalize Serpent. Indeed, the woman and the man were not just approached by the most crafty beast, but as the rest of Scripture indicates, it was the devil himself who approached the pair and invited them to rebel.
This Sunday, we will consider what the devil said and what that teaches us about the world. Even more, though, we will see what it means to be faithful to God as temptations to sin come. And what it means that Christ our Lord did not sin when he was tempted by the devil.
So, to prepare, take time to read Genesis 3, Matthew 4:1–11, and Revelation 12. As you read, pray that God will help us to see Christ and the way he can save us from the schemes of the devil. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:25 – 3:7)
Why is this text crucial for our understanding of the Bible and the doctrine of salvation?
Why is eating from one specific tree a capital offense? What is deficient in our understanding if we minimizing the sin recorded in this text?
Consider Adam’s role and responsibility in this situation. How does Scripture speak about Adam when it comes to the fall of mankind?
Compare God’s directions about the trees in Genesis 2 with this conversation in Genesis 3. What differences do you notice? Why is this significant?
What do we observe about the nature of temptation?
How ought one to respond to the lies of Satan?
Compare Gen 2:25 and 3:7. How does sin fundamentally change humanity?
What are the consequences of the first sin? Consider the vastness of the implications of this passage.
How does this text reveal our need for Christ?
How should we respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
In 3 John, we move from the universal church of 1 John, to the local church of 2 John, to an individual Christian by the name of Gaius. Interestingly, if we titled 3 John the way we title 1–2 Timothy and Titus, this letter would actually be called Gaius, not 3 John. And though I don’t think we need to rename this letter, recognizing this name change helps us see how personal this letter is. In fact, across its 15 verses, there are four individuals named (the Elder, Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius), plus a group of traveling missionaries who serve as faithful reporters that promp John’s letter.
Long story short, this letter is filled with personal relationships. And as we think about fellowship, it is necessary to get into the specific details of such relationships. For in truth, not all relationships are equally good, healthy, or true.
Just the same, with fellowship focused on the Lord and his church, there are questions that Christians must ask about the relationships they form. How do we decide who to spend time with? What is a healthy relationship? What is harmful? And how can you tell the difference?
Those questions and more will be addressed this Sunday, as we take one more walk through our sermon miniseries “Restoring the Right Hand of Fellowship.”
To prepare for Sunday, please read over 3 John and pray for our time together. I will look forward to seeing you, as the Lord allows.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (3 John )
What are main themes/ideas of 3 John?
What might we learn about Gaius and his ministry? (vv. 1-8)
What does vv. 5-8 teach us about partnership in the gospel? What does this look like at OBC? How might we participate in this?
What is Diotrephes doing? What does the Scripture teach us about authority, receiving members, and removing members?
What is the right relationship to John’s authority?
What do we know about Demetrius? Why does John write about him?
Consider John’s relationship to Gaius. What is John seeking from Gaius? What are application points for Gaius?
Consider the reports and commendations (vv. 3, 6, 12). Why is this important?
Why does John rejoice in this letter? Does your heart rejoice in these things? How might our affections be oriented to rejoice in this way?
How ought we to respond to this short letter?
Dear OBC Family,
Join us on Sunday as we move from 1 John to 2 John.
In pursuit of learning what true fellowship looks like, we are going to consider the short epistle of 2 John. Only 13 verses long, this letter is filled with instructions for standing in the truth and loving one another in obedience to God’s truth.
As Scripture teaches, the only fellowship that lasts is one committed to the truth. And in this letter, we learn a little about what that truth is and how to pursue love when truth is compromised. Indeed, elect ladies (local churches), their sisters (other churches), and their children (individual members)—you’ll find these terms in 2 John—as well as church elders all play a part in protecting the church from error and pursuing love in truth. And in 2 John we will find help in all of these things.
So take time to read 2 John. While you are at it, read 3 John too. We will look at that next week, Lord wiling. Pray for our gathering together and that God would continue to sanctify Occoquan Bible Church as we look to him and worship Christ our Lord.
God is good and I look forward, as God wills, to joining you on Sunday to worship our good God.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (2 John 1:1 – 13)
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What is the big idea of 2 John? What are the key words or ideas?
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Who is John writing to? And how does the corporate (elect lady) and individual (and her children) addressees inform our understanding of the church?
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What role does truth play in the command to love one another? How does a church member or an elder demonstrate their love?
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What is the problem he is addressing? How does he begin to resolve that problem?
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What is the false teaching that is happening here? Is this the only kind of false teaching that churches should address?
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Read Romans 16:17–20; Titus 3:10–11; 1 Timothy 6:1–10. What does this passage say about false teaching? What role does the church have in responding to falsehood? Falsehood that is not the full denial of Christ, his humanity, or his deity?
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What house is John talking about in verse 10? What applications does this have for the church?
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Why does John want to see his audience in person? What does that teach us today?
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Paul speaks of another local church (your elect sister). How should local churches relate to one another? Do local churches have any part to play in serving or protecting other local churches?
Dear OBC Family,
As we come to Sunday, there are at least three things to know about as you prepare for worship.
First, we will again be taking time to offer a prayer of confession as a congregation. These times of corporate confession are meant to provoke us to see sin where we would not see it unassisted. It is not meant to accuse any individual of a given sin; it rather helps us all to recognize the unity of spiritual poverty, even as we turn from confession to pardon and thanksgiving for the forgiveness that Christ secured for us.
To help you prepare for that prayer time, we are sharing the prayer ahead of time. You can find a link here.
Second, Sunday School begins afresh in 2024. And for the month of January we will be revisiting the importance of personal, spiritual disciplines. Ben Purves will take time to teach about Scripture reading (1/14), prayer (1/21), and fellowship (1/28). In February, we will also begin a study on a book called The Peacemaker. If you want to begin reading that early, you can find that book on the bookshelf.
Third, we will take another step in our sermon miniseries: Restoring the Right Hand of Fellowship. If you didn’t hear last week’s message, you can find it here. This week we will return to 1 John 3–4, where we will think about the command to love one another. To prepare for Sunday, take time to read those two chapters, and pray that God would produce in us a love for him and a love for one another. Truly, God alone can give us his love, and wonderfully that is why Christ died on Calvary.
So, on Sunday, we have a full line-up to fill our hearts with thanksgiving for his grace. Let us trust that God is working mightily in our midst to purify our hearts, our fellowship, and our hope.
I look forward to seeing on the Lord’s Day, as the Lord orders our steps to be there.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (1 John 3:11-4:12 )
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What is the message that John refers to in 1 John 3:11? How does this relate to the 1 John 1:5–3:10?
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What does he say about the command: Love One Another?
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Who are we to be like? Who are we not to be like?
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What is the connection between love and the cross? Love and forgiveness? Love and the truth?
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How do we discern the Spirit of Truth from the Spirit of Error?
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How can you grow in love? How can our church grow in love? What you do to help our church grow in love?
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In what is our confidence for seeing fellowship restored to the body of Christ?
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Take time to pray for the church.
Dear OBC Family,
As we know all too well, sin always separates. And thus, when fellowship breaks, there is, lurking somewhere, sin unconfessed. In those times, it is tempting to fix the problem(s) with our own wisdom and to work overtime to recreate the fellowship that was had before. Yet, in times when fellowship is lost, we must remember that God alone can “fix” it. And accordingly we should seek him first and all his righteousness.
To put it seasonally, before the Lord gives his church spring rains, he often makes us feel the bitterness of winter’s cold. This coldness may have known sources, or its chilling drafts may strike us without ever revealing the source of their cold. Yet, whatever the source of winter, we should remember that God is working, and that spring is coming. As Hosea 6:1–3 tells us, we must remember that the Lord is the one who breaks us, so that he can bind us. And from this fact, we are invited to return to know the Lord.
This is the promise: God will sanctify his people, and he will bring them to confess their sins. And until sin is confessed, joy will be withheld. Yet, when we seek his light and see our darkness, it will prompt true confession, repentance, forgiveness, and grace. And this grace will bring a new season of fellowship, all provided by the Lord.
In the meantime, as we wait for spring, we can learn from Scripture what fellowship truly is. And for the next four Sundays, that is what we are going to do.
Most January’s we take time to consider the spiritual disciplines of Scripture reading, prayer, church membership, and the like. We have also taken time in January to stand for truth in public (as in opposing the horrors of abortion). Yet, this year, we will take those messages to our Sunday School hour.
In service, we will consider 1–3 John and 1 Corinthians 5–6. From those passages, we will see what God has to say to us about himself, his people, his church, and our fellowship with him and one another. Fellowship that begins with having our sins forgiven by Christ.
On Sunday, that is what we will see in 1 John 1–2. To prepare, take time to read those two chapters and pray that God grants us light to walk in his light.
With a new year, we can pray that God gives us new mercies. To that end, and as the Lord allows, I will look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (1 John 1 & 2 )
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How have you understood fellowship in the past? What are your expectations for church fellowship?
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Why should we begin thinking about fellowship with one another by focusing on our fellowship with God?
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How did our fellowship with God begin? What does it depend on?
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How does our fellowship with one another depend upon our fellowship with God?
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What causes fellowship to break? What can you do to repair that fellowship? (Hint: nothing apart from God)
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What does John say about sin (1:5–10)? What does confessing sin look like?
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Why is John writing his letter (2:1)? What should we do if we sin?
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What does John say about Jesus (2:2)?
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What encouragement do you find in knowing that Christ is an advocate?
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What commands do you need to obey right now in order to pursue fellowship?
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Take time to pray 1 John 1:5–2:6.
December 31 is a day unlike any other. As the final day of our calendar hits, it makes us look back on our last year and consider what God did, what we did, and what we might do going forward.
Looking into the rear view gives us a chance to give thanks to God for his faithfulness, to lament over various sins and sorrows, to learn from mistakes, and to seek fresh grace to walk more faithfully in 2024.
Indeed, looking back at 2023 is only good if we learn more how to walk more faithfully in 2024. And that is how we plan to spend our time together this Sunday.
As we gather for worship one more time in 2023, we come as a church family with a host of mixed emotions. But most importantly, we come to December 31 trusting that the God who saved us from our sins as individuals can sanctify us together as brothers and sisters in Christ.
To that end, we are going to look at Psalm 102 on Sunday. If you read the title, it is a song for the afflicted. And if you read the whole the thing, the affliction is something like a Mid-Life Crisis.
In the life of our church, we are also facing something similar, as questions of past, present, and future arise. Who are we? Where are we going? How are we going to get there?
While we wait on the Lord to answer some of those questions, we are going to look to the Lord from where our help comes from. And as we do, we need to learn a few things from Psalm 102.
With that in mind, let us pray for our gathering together and ask God to teach us how to look to him when we feel afflicted by the grinding days of life.
I am grateful to God for the family of faith at OBC. And I am hopeful for what the Lord will teach us in the last days of 2023 and all the days of 2024. God does not let anything happen by accident and there are many reasons to trust him as we move from this year to next. Let us gather then with hope on Sunday, for he who has brought us safe thus far will surely bring us safely home.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Psalm 102)
How would you summarize Psalms 102? What are main themes? What is the progression of the psalm from beginning to end?
What is the psalmist’s condition, and the psalmist’s future hope?
What does this psalm reveal about God’s character and attributes?
To what end does God create and save?
How does the psalmist contrast himself with God in regards to time? What might we learn from this?
What are the implications of the immutability of God?
How does this psalm speak about how God relates to His people and their prayers?
What truths in this psalm might you use to counsel someone who is discouraged?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
Few days on the calendar are more hopeful or joy-giving than Christmas Eve. Yet, what often brings comfort and unites family can be extra difficult when families are separated or the sirens of war ring out. Indeed, Christmas is supposed to be a time of peace and well-being, but sometimes its not.
Nevertheless, instead of letting the challenges of life ruin Christmasc, the hard realities of life actually remind us why Christmas matters and what the birth of Christ is for. As the Prince of Peace, Jesus did not come to enjoy the peace we make. Instead, to a world at war, where sinners sin and suffer the consequences, he came to make peace by his life, death, and resurrection. Remembering this gospel truth keeps our eyes fixed on our Lord and the good news of his birth.
On Sunday, Christmas Eve, we will take time in the morning to remember what Jesus’s birth means. Then, in the evening (at 6:00pm) we will recall the cast of characters found at Christ’s birth. To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Luke 1 and Matthew 1. As we gather to celebrate the birth of Christ these will be our two passages for meditation: Luke 1:39–56 and Matthew 1:18–25.
I look forward to sharing God’s Word with you and to enjoying the promises of peace that God gives to us as children who struggle to make peace. What a wonderful truth, that Jesus Christ, our Immanuel, has come to be with us and to bring us peace. That is our hope this Christmas. And, as the Lord allows, I look forward to being with you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Luke 1:39–56)
What is happening in the life of Israel, Mary, Elizabeth, when the birth announcement of Jesus comes?
Read Hannah’s song in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. How does this compare with Mary’s song? How are they related?
What kind of joy is recounted in Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, and Mary’s song? What do you typically find joy in?
What are the main themes (or repeating themes) in Mary’s song?
What does Mary’s song reveal about her knowledge of God in Scripture?
What do we learn about God in this passage? About the birth of Christ? About praise?
As we celebrate the birth of Christ, how does the warfare theme of the Bible encourage us? Challenge us? Strengthen our faith?
Dear OBC Family,
Over these past weeks we have celebrated the birth of several children in our congregation, and this is a wonderful thing. Every child is a gift of God’s grace. As parents we pray for our children, and for what kind of people they will grow up to become.
This Sunday, we will look at a birth announcement of John the Baptist, as given from Gabriel to Zechariah in Luke 1:5-25. And this is not simply their son, but their son would grow up to be the forerunner of the Messiah. This is good news for Zechariah and Elizabeth, miraculous news, hard-to-believe news. Not only for them, but for all of God’s people as they have waited through the ages for the coming of Christ.
And it is good news for us today, as we see the faithfulness of God who keeps his promises and brings his Word to pass. This is good and wonderful news for God’s people. I invite you to read ahead and think about Luke 1:5-25 in advance of this Sunday.
I look forward to worshiping our Great God and Savior with you on this Lord’s Day!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions (Luke 1:5-25)
What does this text reveal to us about God?
Was Elizabeth’s barrenness God’s judgment against her? What promises are given about barrenness in the Old Covenant? How should we understand barrenness in the New Covenant today?
What does this text teach us about God’s providence?
Consider Elizabeth’s reversal from barrenness to life. Where else do we see this in Scripture? Why is this significant?
Why is Zechariah's mouth closed? Contrast this with Isaiah 6:1-7 and Mary’s faith in Luke 1:34.
How should Zechariah’s heart and words have responded to this announcement? Where else does the Scripture speak about God closing mouths?
What is the mission of their promised son? How will John be set apart, and how will he prepare the way for the coming of the Lord?
Consider how Paul picks up the idea of Luke 1:15 and contrasts drunkenness with being filled by the Spirit (Eph 5:15-20; Gal 5:14-24).
What does preparation for the second coming of our Lord look like today? (Matt 28:18-20)
How ought we to respond to this text?
Sermon Introduction
Will the package arrive on time? As we approach Christmas, it's a question we often find ourselves asking. No matter how much free 2-day shipping is promised, nothing is certain in a season of short supplies and busy distribution. As we take a break from our sermon series on Genesis to focus on the season of Advent, we'll be looking at Luke's prologue (Luke 1:1-4). It has nothing to do with Christmas…or does it? This Sunday, we'll look at how Luke's short introduction to his gospel gives us certainty of what the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus means for us in an age of uncertainty.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor Jared
As a reminder, the Montclair Community Group will be in overflow this Sunday.
Discussion & Response Questions (Luke 1:1-4)
Why does Luke's position as an outsider (non-apostle, non-eyewitness) matter?
What are the "things that have been accomplished among us?"
Why did Luke see it necessary to compile another account?
In what ways does continued exposure to the gospel underscore our certainty?
Why is the Christmas story inseparable from the full story of the gospel?
What are some practical ways we can keep this in mind during the Christmas season?
What are some ways we can boost our certainty during uncertain times?
On Sunday we come to the last part of Genesis 2. Early this year, we spent some time in this section of Scripture when we looked at the Business of Is-Ness: Ontology 101. In that series we considered the nature of humanity, male and female, marriage and more.
In so many ways, the ethical problems of our day (e.g., transgenderism, so-called same sex marriage, abortion, the breakdown of the family, the rise of minor-attracted persons, etc.) pass through Genesis 2:18–25. Indeed, we could spend multiple weeks on these verses alone in order address the problems of our day. But instead of doing that, I would point you to the previous sermon series, Michael Clary’s recent book God’s Good Design (soon to be on the bookshelf), and Sunday’s sermon.
This Sunday, we will see the goodness of God’s plan to make his image male and female and the goodness of bringing them together in marriage. To prepare for Sunday, read Genesis 1-2 and Ephesians 5:15–33. Then pray that God would give us ears to hear what his Word says. I am persuaded that all of us are inclined to resist what Genesis 2:18–25 says. The deck is stacked against us today, as every form of education and entertainment teach us to think of ourselves as autonomous and self-directed individuals. Yet, Genesis 2:18–25 teaches something else. So, by God’s grace, let us come to Scripture seeking to see what it says.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday and worshiping together our great triune God.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
As a reminder, the Manassas Community Group will be in overflow this Sunday.
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:18–25)
What does this passage add to the creation story?
Who is the author / definer of marriage? What is the purpose of marriage?
Consider Genesis 2:18. What does it mean that man’s aloneness is “not good”? How does this relate to God’s statement of creation being “very good” (1:31)?
What kind of help should be understood in 2:18? Who is called “helper”? Why does this matter?
How should we understand the significance of man being formed first, and then woman being formed from man? This work of creation is different from all other creatures. Why?
How does the creation of man and woman inform men and women today? What does the covenant between the man and woman tell us about men and women today?
How does marriage point us to Christ and the church? Consider Ephesians 5.
Consider Genesis 2:21-23 and John 19:34. What parallels do you observe between Adam and Christ?
How do the moral imperatives of Ephesians 5:22-33 restore the pattern of marriage in creation?
What does this passage teach singles? Married? Christians? Unbelievers?
On this Black Friday, I hope you are finding a few good deals and remembering God’s good news—that we who live in the land of ephemeral abundance are promised a great abundant life in Christ.
On Sunday, we will begin this season of Advent by seeing the way Genesis 2:15–17 explains the gospel to us. While salvation is promised to all those who truly believe on Christ, the Word of God says more. It explains to us how God the Son Incarnate can take the place of another in death, so that by union with him we have assurance of eternal life. Yet, understanding the logic gospel requires a basic knowledge of biblical covenants. And that is what Genesis 2 gives.
So far in Genesis 1–2, our focus has been on creation. Yet, this Sunday we will turn to the idea of covenant. Indeed, our salvation comes by way of Christ’s new covenant. But we can only understand how this covenant of grace “works” if we go back to the beginning to God’s covenant of works with Adam. To that end, we will begin this season of Advent in Genesis 2.
This Sunday we will look at Genesis 2:15–17. Next Sunday we will consider Genesis 2:18–25 before turning to Luke 1 for the rest of December.
To prepare for Sunday, pray for our gathering and read Genesis 2, as well as Romans 5. You may also find reading Numbers 3:1–13 helpful, as it provides the key to understanding the commands to Adam—"to work and keep" or “to serve and guard.” In all, we have much to celebrate this holiday season, and this begins by marveling at the way God makes and keeps covenants with sinners like us.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:15–17)
What is the main point of Genesis 2:15–17?
How do we know that Adam is a priest? That Eden is a Sacred Garden? That these verses a covenant?
What is a covenant?
Do you need to understand covenants to be saved? (Hint: no) Then why does understanding covenants matter?
What is the covenant of works? (Also called the covenant with creation, or covenant with Adam)
What is the relationship between creation and covenant?
What is the relationship between covenant of works and the new covenant (covenant of grace)?
How does understanding Genesis 1–2 in covenant terms help us understand the gospel?
What else do we learn in Genesis 2:15–17 about God? Mankind? And God’s relationship with humanity?
Has your reading of the Bible changed since beginning this series in Genesis? If so, how? What do you see now that, perhaps, you didn’t before?
How do “new eyes” help you walk more carefully before the Lord?
We are dust. It’s not an inspiring reality, but it’s one that should humble us. We have come from the dust, and because of sin, we will return to the dust. The dust reminds us that we are mortal and our days our fleeting. Yet for all who are in Christ, we have great hope beyond the dust. The creation of Adam (Gen 2) points us forward to the resurrection of the second Adam (1 Cor 15), and the coming of the New Creation (Rev 21-22).
As we approach this Sunday, take some time to read Genesis 2:4-14 and consider what this text reveals about God and man, and think about how the words and themes introduced in this passage are threaded throughout the Scriptures.
May the Lord bless our fellowship this Lord’s Day as we gather to worship Him!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
As a reminder, the Dale City Community Group will be in overflow this Sunday.
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:4–14)
How does Genesis 2:4–14 function in relationship to the Creation Week (Gen 1:1–2:3)?
How is Genesis 2:4–14 organized?
What should we notice when we read “LORD God” (YHWH Elohim) instead of “God” (Elohim)?
What do you observe about God’s attributes and works in Genesis 2:4–14? Compare and contrast with creation and mankind.
What is unique to the antediluvian (pre-Flood) world?
How is the creation of man unique from the creation of everything else?
Consider the significance of dust throughout the Scriptures. What are practical implications of being of the dust, and returning to the dust?
How does man receive life? What is significant about this? How is this theme threaded throughout the Scriptures?
What might be observed about the rivers, gold, and precious stones mentioned in Genesis 2? Compare and contrast with the Tabernacle, Temple, and New Creation.
How ought we to respond to this text?
On Sunday, we come to the Lord’s Day, a day that many have termed the Christian Sabbath. Going back to the time of Constantine, the Sabbath has been treated as a day of physical rest. In fact, our own country established it as day of rest, complete with blue laws, to honor the Sabbath and keep it holy. Yet, is that what Genesis 2:1–3 means when God says that he blessed the seventh day and made it holy? On Sunday, we are going to consider those very things.
In Genesis, the seventh day should be something assigned to the opening prologue (Genesis 1:1–31). As Genesis goes, the book of the generations of the heavens and the earth begins in Genesis 2:4 and goes through Genesis 4:26. In Genesis, the whole book is built around ten statements of the generations. But before that Genesis 1:1–2:3 is a section that introduces the whole of creation in seven days.
As I will try to show on Sunday, man was created on Day 6 for Day 7. That means that Day 6 was not the pinnacle of creation, Day 7 was. But what was Day 7 for? That is what we will consider on Sunday as we consider how this final day of the creation week culminated God’s very good creation. Even more, we will see how this day promises rest for all those who find Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Sabbath.
Truly, if you are feeling weary and heavy laden, if the burdens of life and sin are plaguing you, this message about God’s gift of rest is something you will want to hear. To prepare for Sunday, take time to Read Genesis 1:1–2:4. But also read Psalm 92 and Hebrews 4 and pray that the Lord would give you rest in Christ, who is bringing new creation glory to all those who are being remade in his image. This is what holiness looks like and it is something we will consider in detail on Sunday.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you this Lord’s Day.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
As a reminder, the County Center Community Group is in our overflow downstairs this Sunday.
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:1-3)
Discussion Questions for Genesis 2:1–3
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How do these verses connect to Genesis 1:1–31 and what comes next in Genesis 2:4 and following?
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What is unique about this passage? What are the key ideas expressed in the passage?
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Are there any commands in this passage? Any direction for keeping Sabbath as a weekly pattern?
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What does it mean that God rested? How does this day of rest relate to the other six days of creation?
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What does it mean that he blessed this day and made it holy?
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How does a comparison of this passage to other uses of the word ‘holy’ inform the meaning of this day?
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How did the Sabbath operate in Israel? Did Jesus change that weekly pattern? How? See Matthew 11:28–12:6.
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What does it mean to find rest today? How does the Sabbath relate to the temple and to the church?
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Where can you find rest today? What does that actually look like?
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How does Genesis 2:1–3 make you long for heaven?
This Sunday we come to the sixth day of the creation week as God fills the earth with life. This text is foundational for understanding who we are as human beings, and for understanding the role God has given to mankind on the earth. We will consider the significance of being created in the image of God, and how this sets humanity apart from all other creatures. In addition, as we see the first Adam’s dominion over the earth, and how this points us forward to the glory of the second Adam.
In preparation for worship this Sunday, I invite you to read Genesis 1:24-31 and our statement on the doctrine of man (Section III) in our Statement of Faith. Our doctrines of creation, race and ethnicity, the sanctity of life, gender, marriage, sexuality, and family are all undergirded by this foundational text in Genesis 1.
In addition, we also invite you to pray for our Men’s Retreat as we are currently retreating with the men of Arlington Baptist and Jefferson Park Baptist at Rapidan Baptist Camp. Pray that the Lord would bless our fellowship with one another and our time in 2 Peter. We will return on Saturday afternoon, and I look forward to our whole church family being together this Lord's Day.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 1:24-31)
What does Genesis 1:24-31 reveal about God as Creator?
Read through Genesis 1:24-31 and Section II (the doctrine of man) in our Statement of Faith. What doctrines are undergirded by Genesis 1:24-31?
What is the image of God? What is the significance of the image of God?
What are the ethical implications of bearing the divine image?
Consider the commands of verse 28. What is the purpose of these commands?
What does the presence of work in creation reveal about the role of mankind in the world before the fall?
As descendants of Adam, what is our relationship to the commands given to Adam in Genesis 1?
How does God order relationships between mankind, creatures, and the earth? What is the purpose of God's Creation?
How does the first Adam lead us to the second Adam? Consider Psalm 8, Romans 5:12-14; and 1 Corinthians 15.
What parallels and contrasts do you observe between Genesis 1 and Revelation 21-22?
Sermon Introduction
Dinosaurs. Dragons. Demons. And the Day of Judgment. On the fifth day of creation, all of these biblical—yes, biblical—realities come into view.
As we will see on Sunday, God made a world filled with creatures in the sea, in the air, and on the land. This he established so that his world would be filled with life and lessons for creatures made in his image (humans). Yet, in the creation week, we have not arrived at the formation of mankind. That will come in Day 6. For now, on Day 5, we need to know something of the world God was preparing for his people. And this world includes giant sea creatures (Leviathan) and dinosaurs (Behemoth).
In our day, a child’s interest in Dinosaurs is often the gateway to believing that the world is millions or billions of years old. And some will say that the world as we see it points towards such large numbers, or even that God has “deceived” mankind with the apparent age built into the universe. Yet, all such charges of deception evaporate when we remember that God wrote a book that tells of his creation. God has not deceived us by things that he has made. Rather, seeking to be wise ourselves, we are enslaved to the deceiver until God rescues us. At the same time, God does not owe sinful humanity an explanation of the creation that we have bowed to worship (Romans 1:18–32). Yet, God has made a way of light, for those who are willing to turn away from their own lights.
God's mercies to sinful humanity begin with the way he gave us Genesis 1, with its revelation of creation. And this Sunday, we will look at Genesis 1:20–23 which brings us up close and personal to all that Scripture says about the great beasts we call dinosaurs. Equally, as we trace the storyline of Scripture, we will discover how God is going to defeat the beasts of the earth, especially that most crafty, twisting serpent, the devil.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Genesis 1 with Job 40–41, as well as Isaiah 27. We will spend time in each chapter this Sunday, as we consider the ways in which God made the world good, and how he is now making a fallen world good again. As we have seen throughout Genesis 1, God’s first creation points to his new creation in Christ.
Let’s pray that our Lord would give us insight into his Word and his world, as we gather on Sunday. I will look forward to seeing you, as the Lord allows.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:20 – 23
What does the creation of life in all parts of the earth reveal about God?
What does the nature of plants and animals teach us about God? His Word, the Bible? Mankind?
How do you look at animals? Through the lens of science (dissecting) or Scripture (didactic)?
What does the command “be fruitful and multiply” tell us about the world God has made? How does that compare to our current ’talking heads’?
Where are three places that God ‘created' (Heb. Bara) found in Genesis 1? And what does this word tell us?
How does the rest of Scripture inform our understanding of the great sea creatures (tannin)?
How do Psalm 104:24–26 and Isaiah 27:1 help us read Genesis 1:20–23?
How does Job 41 speak of the Leviathan? What do we learn about God’s creation here?
What promise does Isaiah 27 make for us? How does it connect creation to new creation?
What does the fifth day of creation reveal to us about God’s new creation in Christ?
Christ rose from the dead on the third day, according to the Scriptures. But according to the Scriptures, what happened on the “fourth day”?
On Sunday, we are going to take up that question and look at Genesis 1:14–19, which tells us that the lights in the heavens were made on the fourth day. And taking our cues from the rest of the Bible, we are going to see what this day of creation tells us about the world and the One who made the world.
Indeed, as the world shakes around us, we need to see that God rules over all things. On Day 4, he created the greater and lesser lights to rule the day and the night. And we need to see how the Creator of light is also the Ruler of rulers. Indeed, this is evident in Genesis 1, but in the fulness of time it is even more apparent as we behold Christ seated at God’s right hand. Indeed, as I will argue, the fourth day leads us to see Christ’s ascension and rule over all creation.
Yet, to understand how that works, we will need to look carefully at Genesis 1, as well as the books of Isaiah, Joel, Luke and Acts. To prepare for Sunday, take time to pray for God to shine his light on us. Read Genesis 1and if you have time, read Genesis 37, Isaiah 13, and Joel 2. Keep an eye out for the sun, moon, and stars, and ask––how does Genesis 1 inform the rest of redemptive history? This Sunday we will consider that very point.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to worshiping God with you on Sunday. It was a joy to bring greetings to Arlington Baptist Church last week, but it will be better to be home again. I hope to see you at OBC on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:14–19
How does Day 4 (Gen. 1:14–19) fit with the rest of Genesis 1?
What is the relationship between God’s light, the light in the heavens, and the lights created on Day 4?
What are the lights on Day 4 for?
Have you noticed their purpose before? How many things do we overlook in Scripture?
Is there any significance to the fact that the sun, moon, and stars are not mentioned in Genesis 1:14–19? How might this reinforce our understanding of the world before the Flood?
Where do we see the lights of heaven mentioned in Scripture? Think: Genesis 15:5; 37:5–11.
How do the Prophets speak of the sun, moon, and stars? (See Isaiah 13:9–13; Ezekiel 32:7–8; Joel 2:28–32). How does Genesis 1 help us understand those passages?
What is the connection between Day 4 and Jesus? (See Malachi 4:2; Mark 13:24–25; Luke 21:24–26; Hebrews 12:26).
If Day 3 is tied to the resurrection, and Day 4 is related to Christ's ascension (see Acts 2), what comes next for Christ? What comes next for the new creation? (Lord willing, we will see this next week).
How does knowing that Christ is ruling over all powers and principalities cause you to stand? How does his Lordship over the nations encourage you today?
What is the hope for the Christian? (See Daniel 12:1-3; Philippians 2:15).
For the last week, OBC has hosted the Simeon Trust workshop. And during that time close to a dozen OBC members taught, led small groups, learned, ran sound, prepared food, cleaned up trash, and blessed men from close to 20 churches across Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Illinois, and Florida. In short, the work done at OBC this week to study the book of 2 Timothy and to help current and future pastors will bear fruit both now and for generations, even for eternity.
So, thank you for all who served, who prayed, and who encouraged the work going on. It was a true joy! And one of the abiding joys is that Sunday we get to hear from one of the participants of the week, Mike Law.
We have often mentioned Mike, his church, and his labors in the Southern Baptist Convention. He is the pastor, from Arlington Baptist Church, who initiated a resolution to help the SBC hold fast to the Bible and its statement of faith (The Baptist Faith and Message 2000) and to only have qualified men serving as pastors in the SBC. This is our conviction too and we have, through the ministry of Christ Over All, sought to help stand for biblical faith and practice in the SBC.
All of this serves as background for Mike Law joining us on Sunday to bring a message from Genesis 22. Like our church, ABC has been going through the book of Genesis—though, they are at nearing the end. For us, Pastor Mike is going to encourage us and challenge us with a word from the story of God providing a lamb to save the life of Isaac.
To prepare for Sunday, read Genesis 22 and Hebrews 11 which reflects on this passage. Then, pray for Mike as he comes and preaches and for me as I go to Arlington Baptist Church to bring a message of resurrection hope from Genesis 1.
The Lord has been very gracious to us. In many places, the people of God go hungry for God’s Word. But this week I was reminded, and am reminding all of us, how good God has been to plant us in a place where the Word of God is bountiful. May we eat and be full, so that we might be conformed into the image of Christ, who is the Bread of Life.
Additionally, pray for the youth who are at camp this weekend. May the preachers and teachers there equip our teens with truth about what God says about humanity, manhood, womanhood, and everything related to these important subjects.
I am praying for OBC this Sunday and I look forward, Lord willing, to joining you again next Sunday. Until then be sure to welcome Mike Law and pray for him as he brings the Word to our family of believers.
For God’s Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
As a reminder, the Bristow Community group is in our overflow downstairs this Sunday.
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 22
What does the “after these things” in Genesis 22:1 refer to? How does it point back to God’s faithfulness with what came before?
What is the connection between God’s command for Abraham to go in Genesis 22:2 and God’s command to Abraham in Genesis 12:1? How does this connection encourage Abraham to trust God?
Why is God testing Abraham?
Considering Genesis 22:3-5, Genesis 15:5, and James 2:18-22, how does faith respond to God’s commands?
What language is repeated in Genesis 22:6 and 8? What is the point of slowing down the narrative at this point? What does Abraham believe God will do?
Considering Genesis 22:9-10, and Hebrews 11:17-19, what does faith believe God is able to do? What day did this take place on (see Genesis 22:4)?
Considering Genesis 22:11-12 what does it mean to fear God? How does Abraham demonstrate his fear of God?
Read Genesis 22:13-14. What is substitution? Where does faith finally rest?
How does Isaac point forward to Jesus? How does he fall short? How does all of this connect to Romans 8:32
How does the ram point forward to Jesus? How is this related to the teaching we find in Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 5:21, and 1 John 4:10?
In light of Genesis 22:15-19, what does faith believe about God and his promises?
What is the purpose of the list of names in Genesis 22:20-24? How is it linked to what went before and what comes after?
How ought we to respond to these truths? How have you been encouraged or challenged by Genesis 22?
How would you share the gospel of Jesus Christ from this passage with an unbelieving friend?
What can you pray for from this passage?
For those who are wondering: I am not a flat-earther.
After last week’s sermon, one precocious church member asked if a three-story reading of Genesis 1 suggests a flat earth. In a word, my answer is “no.” (Although, I may say something about the relative flatness of the Dry Land in Gen. 1:10).
Understanding the world as God’s cosmic temple does not replace scientific inquiry or oppose a heliocentric view of the cosmos. Rather, it gives us a sacred understanding of this world and how our planet, which hangs on nothing in space and orbits the sun each year, is more than a natural product of chance. Earth, as we know it, is the place that God made for humanity to live, so that God can dwell with us. In that way, it is a cosmic temple (see Psalm 104).
By nature, we can observe, study, and make hypotheses about his creation. But before that, we must know something about why God made the world. The why is never found in nature alone and can only be found in God’s revelation. And that is why we let Scripture speak to us about creation.
This Sunday, we take one more step to see how God made the Land and the Sea, and how this third day creation will play a role in redemptive history. Indeed, the third day not only tells us something about creation. It also prepares for the new creation and the resurrection of Christ on the third day.
So to prepare for Sunday take time to read Genesis 1, as well as, 1 Corinthians 15. Together, these two texts will help us to see what God made in the beginning and how it prepares the way for the end (Isa. 46:10).
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and to marveling at the God who made plans for his new creation even from the beginning.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:9–13
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What are the main features of Genesis 1:9–13?
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How do the events of Day 3 compare to Days 1 and 2? What is the same? What is different?
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How may the original creation be similar to / different from the world after the flood? How can we know?
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What does the planting of grains and fruit trees without the sun mean for creation?
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How does understanding the events of Day 3 compare to the rest of the Bible, especially redemptive history?
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How do later parts of Scripture speak of the Third Day? How does Paul connect resurrection to the third day / new creation?
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What do we learn about God and the Bible by reading Day 3 in light of the New Creation?
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What else does Genesis 1:9–13 teach us about God’s creation and plan for salvation?
Heaven is a place like earth. Have you heard that (sung) before? In some ways, it is exactly right. God made man for the earth, and one day, when death is dead and sin is no more, he will remake the heavens and the earth, so that we spend eternity with him on a glorified earth.
At the same time, earth is a place like heaven. Or it should be. God made the world to reflect the glory of heaven, and redemptive history was always aimed to bring God’s image bearers into his heavenly presence. Think Moses, Isaiah, and Paul. Each of them were given visions of heaven—a reflection of what is to come!
In Christ, a man would finally come into God’s heavenly throne room. And more incredible: He would stay!
Going back to the beginning, God had always came down from heaven to the earth. But finally, in Christ, God raised a man—the God-man—into his presence when he ascended in Acts 1:9-11. Indeed, the whole Bible tells a story of heaven and earth. And this Sunday we are going to begin to look at that story as we study Genesis 1:6–8.
In these three verses, we find the separation of heaven and earth, a separation that sets the context for the story of joining heaven and earth in Christ. Indeed, this is what we will see on Sunday.
To prepare for this message, take time to read Genesis 1:6–8 and then think about all the places in Scripture where heaven is discussed. Consider what the heavens look like and spend time in Job 36–37 reading about what God says about his heavens. Too often we ignore God’s testimony about the heavens we see, and on Sunday we are, by God’s grace, going to learn about what God says about the heavens that stand above our heads and under God’s feet.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:6–8
What is heaven? And where is it?
What is the difference between heaven (where God dwells) and the heavens (what we see)? Is the word different, or the idea?
What is the relationship between God’s heaven and the heavens above us? Cf. Jeremiah 10:11-13; Isaiah 40:21-23; Psalm 102:25–27; Psalm 104:1–5; Job 37:1–14.
How do these passages change the way you think of heaven and the heavens?
Could you explain how the cosmos is a three-story house? Where does Scripture explain this?
What is the relationship between heaven, the temple, and the cloud? Where do we see the cloud of God coming to earth?
What do the clouds represent? How does understanding the glory of heaven inform your understanding of the world?
How does a proper understanding of heaven and the heavens inform scientific inquiry?
What does the creation of the heavens do in the story of salvation?
What does this study of Genesis 1:6–8 teach us about God? About the Bible? About how to see the world God has made?
And God said, “Let there be light,” . . . and there was light!
Have you ever thought about how remarkable that sentence is? God spoke a word and light exploded into being. In that word, light covered the darkness and the darkness has not been able to conquer the light.
On Sunday, this will be our meditation as we look at Day 1 of the creation week. In Genesis 1:3–5, God speaks light into existence and separates it from the darkness. And from that one word, we discover an entire theology of light. On Sunday, that is what we will look at, as we begin in Genesis 1 and trace how the Bible speaks of God’s light, God’s day, and God’s rule over the darkness.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Genesis 1 and then read John 1 too. Both chapters testify to God’s good creation and call us to marvel at the only one who is light.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday, when we will gather together to behold the God who haas revealed to us his unapproachable light.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:3-5
In Genesis 1:3–5 we enter Day 1 of God’s creation of the earth. Why should we see verse 3, not verse 1–2, as beginning the creation week?
What is the relationship of God’s light (God is light) to the light of heaven and to the light of the earth?
Is it possible (or conceivable in your mind) to see a world with light, but without a Sun or stars (created on Day 4)? Compare Revelation 21:25; 22:5.
How does that final creation (i.e., the new creation) inform the way you think about the creation of the earth?
There are four actions verbs in Genesis 1:3–5. What are they and what do we learn from each?
How does Genesis 1:5 define “day”? Why does that definition matter?
What does the light of Day 1 have to do with the Day of the LORD?
What hope of salvation do you find in Day 1 of creation? Compare 2 Corinthians 4:6.
What else does this passage teach you: About God? About God’s Word? About the world?
Getting into the book of Genesis is like going on a long journey: It’s takes time to get there.
Equally, to make sure that we are going in the right direction, it is important to set our compasses the right way. And to do that, we are going to take another week to look at one verse. Genesis 1:2. This verse gives us the condition of the earth before the Lord speaks and it invites us to consider what the Lord is about to say in Genesis 1:3. Even more, when read this verse with the rest of the Bible, it suggests to us that when God speaks “Light” and everything else into existence, he is speaking from the place of his divine throne—namely, from heaven.
Indeed, heaven is a created place too. But it is one that is not detailed in Genesis 1. That said, there are some biblical truths we need to know about God, his heavenly temple, his angels, and his creative designs before we can go farther in Genesis 1. These are found by reading Genesis 1 with other passages like Psalm 104 and Job 38, which is what we will do on Sunday.
Therefore, to prepare for Sunday, take time to read these three chapters. On Sunday we will take another step in Genesis 1, as we continue to consider the creation and our Creator. Pray for our time together and that the light of God’s Word and the life of his Spirit would strengthen our faith as we gather together.
As the Lord the allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:2
What creation is in view in vv. 2–31, beginning with v. 2?
Why doesn’t vv. 2–31 tell us about heaven? Does that mean God is silent about heaven?
What does the rest of Scripture tell us about God’s dwelling place?
What part do angels play in creation? Job 38:7.
How does verse 2 relate to verses 1 and 3?
What are the three pre-conditions of creation in v. 2? How do these three pre-conditions inform vv. 2–31?
How does v. 2 preview / prefigure the temple that God is going to build in creation?
What are the non-negotiables we must hold for an orthodox view of creation? What is second-tier?
What do we learn about God and his Spirit in v. 2? What hope does this give you in your life?
What role does the Spirit play in your new creation?
Genesis 1:1 is arguably the most important verse in the Bible. As we saw earlier this summer in our series on ontology, The Business of Is-ness, how one reads this verse will largely determine how you understand the rest of the Bible, the rest of history, and the rest of creation—even the rest you are looking for in creation.
Indeed, if what you think about God is the most important thing about you (A.W. Tozer), then what you think about God’s creation stands at the top of your thoughts about God. And until December, we are going to plant ourselves in Genesis 1–3 to better understand God’s creation and the covenant he made with Adam in the beginning.
In fact, because there are so many questions about history, science, Scripture, salvation, and the sovereignty of God wrapped up in our reading of Genesis 1–3, we are going to spend one sermon looking at each day in the creation week in Genesis 1:1–2:3. We will take ample time looking at the covenant that God makes with humanity in Genesis 2:4–25. And we will then see how the introduction of sin into the world changed everything (Gen. 3:1–24).
Still, before entering into the history of God’s creation and covenant, we need to answer some questions about Genesis 1–3. Are these chapters history? Or are they myth? Do they have anything to say to the age of the earth? Or does that not matter? What about origins of humanity, society, and salvation? Do we learn anything about Christ in these chapters? And while we are at it, what did Jesus and the Apostles think about Genesis 1–3?
These are just some of the questions we need to answer and this Sunday, as we take our first step into Genesis, we will run some diagnostic tests from the rest of Scripture to consider this question: What is Genesis 1? And how should we read it? Read more on OBC’s blog.
Indeed, pray that God would reveal himself to us and give us a clear understanding of himself through his Word. Even more, may God help us to see what he did in creation, when he spoke the world into existence. Truly, there is no good news about God’s new creation in Christ (2 Cor. 4:6; 5:17), unless we rightly understand what he has said about his first creation (Gen. 1:1–2:3).
So that is our aim—to rightly understand Genesis 1:1–2:3, so that we can better know, love, and worship our Creator. May God help us and may the Spirit that brought the world into being, form us into the image of Christ.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and bringing you a message from Genesis 1.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1
Why is Genesis 1:1 (one of) the most important verses in the Bible?
In Genesis 1:1, there are at least four truths to consider. What are they and why do they matter?
How do you weigh these four truths? How do they relate to your understanding of God’s Word and God’s world?
How do you understand the age of the earth? How does that make a difference in your life?
How should we read Genesis 1? What is problematic, if we read it as myth? As non-literal? As symbolic?
How does a literal reading of the text best explain what we find in Genesis 1? What impact does approach have on the rest of the Bible?
How do Jesus and the Apostles read Genesis 1? Why does that matter?
When did Christians begin to argue for an old earth? What does the novelty of that approach tell you about its validity?
How does Genesis 1:1 inform the rest of the Bible? The authority and clarity of the Bible? And the storyline of the Bible which leads to Christ?
What questions remain for you about how to approach Genesis 1?
On Sunday, we look forward to turning our attention from Titus to the glorious Song of the Sea, the victory song of Moses in Exodus 15. In the Bible, God’s plan of salvation always includes judgment. And those who sing most passionately, do so because their sins have been forgiven and the judgment of God has passed. Indeed, in Christ Jesus this is our hope and our song.
And in looking at the lyrics of Moses’s Song, we will see more clearly who God is and what he has done—and is still doing—for his people. If you feel afflicted, discouraged, and defeated, this song of victory will be a great help. And wonderfully, it will be brought to us by Dr. Derek Bass.
Derek and his wife, Elizabeth, are friends from Southern Seminary. Derek has been teaching Old Testament at the Tyndale Theological Seminary for years. And before returning to Amsterdam for the Fall semester, he and his family are joining us on Sunday.
Also, on Saturday evening, at 6:00pm, we will be hosting a dinner for them and they will be sharing about their work, which trains pastors for service all over the world. Please sign up here before the day is over :-)
To prepare for Sunday, take time to Read Exodus 14–15. Chapter 14 gives you the historical account. Chapter 15 gives us the poetry of praise. Both are needed to understand the historical reality of this event, as well as the typological nature of the event. That is, Exodus 15 foreshadows the salvation that we find in Christ. So read those chapters and pray for Christ to be magnified as we gather on Sunday.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing at 10:00am for worship. If you are coming for youth and children’s training, that will happen at 9:00am.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Exodus 15
Why do Moses and Miriam sing? Do you think about your singing in this way?
What do these songs emphasize about who God is? About what God has done?
How do God’s enemies compare to Him?
What is the arc of Moses’ song?
Notice the shift from singing (vv. 1-21) to grumbling (vv. 22-24). What does this reveal about Israel, and about God?
What is significant about this instruction (vv. 25-26) following Israel’s redemption from Egypt?
How would you describe the work of God in this text?
How does this text point forward to New Covenant realities?
How ought we to respond to this text?
There's no shortage in the Bible of urging God's people to do good works. In the letter to Titus alone, we've seen the theme of good works applied to the church, the household, and as we will see this Sunday -- the outside world. But so often our good works leave us asking "What have we accomplished?" Perhaps we're asking the wrong question.
The simple message of Titus 3:1-8 unveils to us that the foundation of our work is not rooted at all in our accomplishments, but in what God's goodness and love for mankind has done. Read and meditate on Titus 3:1-8 in preparation to be reminded of the good news that makes our work good.
For His glory and your growth in grace,
Pastor Jared
Discussion & Response Questions: Titus 3:1-8
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Consider the seven reminders for the saints in 3:1-2. How does the gospel and God’s grace motivate us in these good works?
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Why does Paul provide the reminder of who they used to be (3:3)?
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Consider the relationship between the reminders in 3:1-2 and the believer’s past identity in 3:3.
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What are the many ways that God is described in this text?
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What does 3:4-7 teach us about the basis of our salvation?
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What is the “washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit”? What are the implications of this reality?
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What is the basis of our justification? What does justification make possible?
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Why emphasize that a “saying is trustworthy”? How should we understand this in Scripture?
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What does devotion to good works look like?
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What is the relationship between our salvation and our good works?
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How does the fact that our works are established by God's work in our lives change the way we think about obedience?
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How should we respond to this text?
This Sunday we’ll continue in our sermon series in Titus and consider how God's Word brings order to the church for faithfulness and fruitfulness. Specifically, we're going to look at Titus 1:10-16 and consider how rebuke can bring bring us to soundness of faith. By way of reminder, the Mapledale Community Group will be in overflow downstairs this Sunday.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Jeff Dionise
Discussion & Response Questions Titus 1:10-16
As you read these verses (vv. 10-16), how would you describe the disorder that’s present in the churches of Crete?
What is the desired outcome from Titus’ ministry in addressing these situations?
What are the marks of false teachers in this text?
Practically speaking, how are false teachers to be silenced?
How do the elders’ qualifications (vv. 5-9) equip him for the tasks that are required (vv. 10-16)?
What are the consequences of failing to rebuke? What emboldens one to rebuke?
What kind of works flow from unbelief? (vv. 15-16)
What should be brought about from true knowledge of God?
After seeing all the negative examples in this text, how ought the churches of Crete to look? Positively, what vision for church health are we given if all these negatives are reversed to positive realities?
What practical applications might you draw from this text for ordinary church members?
Dear OBC Family,
Did you ever watch one of those reality tv shows where a nanny or “parenting expert” enters a chaotic household and works to bring order to the chaos? As painful as those scenarios can be, there were some parallels with the churches in Crete.
This Sunday we will begin a new sermon series in the book of Titus, and much like these dysfunctional homes, the churches of Crete were in need of significant attention. False teachers and the influence of Cretan culture were harming churches, and there was a lack of the fruitfulness of good works which follows faith.
Paul’s letter to Titus provides a template for ordering the Cretan churches so that they might be more faithful and fruitful, and these words have great importance for us today as faithfulness to the truth brings about fruitfulness in God’s church. I invite you to read all of Paul’s letter to Titus, and come join us this Sunday as we begin this new series.
I look forward to gathering with you to worship our Lord this Sunday!
As a reminder, the County Center Community Group is in overflow this Sunday.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions Titus 1:1-4
Who is Titus? What is his background with Paul? (Search for other appearances of Titus in the New Testament)
What does verse 1a teach us about Paul and his authority? How should we respond to this?
To what end is Paul preaching and serving? (vv. 1-3)
What should we understand when we read “God’s elect”?
What is the relationship between knowledge of the truth and godliness? What goes wrong when these are decoupled from one another?
What does Paul teach about “the hope of eternal life” being promised and manifested? How does Paul speak about God in relationship to time?
Why state that God “never lies”? Consider the context of Crete with 1:10-16.
How is the “grace and peace” extended in this greeting from Paul to Titus more than ordinary?
How does Paul provide a template for us for the preaching of the gospel and ministry to fellow believers?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Sermon Introduction
Go, therefore, into all the earth and make disciples of all nations.
In Matthew 28:19, Jesus gives what we call The Great Commission. In the closing scene of the first Gospel, Matthew records Jesus's final words to his disciples. As Matthew tells it, Jesus commands his disciples to go make more disciples. And when these disciples are made, by preaching the gospel of the kingdom to the whole world (Matt. 24:14), these converts to Christ are to be baptized and taught all that Christ commanded.
Significantly, however, Jesus does not simply give a command “to make disciples"; he gives a command based upon the newfound authority he has received from the Father. This is why the Great Commission begins with the word “therefore.” Indeed, only after his perfect obedience on the cross, can the resurrected God-man send his disciples into the world with the message of the gospel; only after he has received authority over all nations can the mission go from Jerusalem to Juneau, AK. And importantly, this authority is royal authority which begins to identify the nature of the church as a royal assembly of God’s New Covenant people.
Indeed, for all that The Great Commission does in telling the church what to do, it also tells us what the church is. And this Sunday, that is the last question to answer in our series on ontology, what we have called "The Business of Is-ness." Over the last 8 weeks, we have attempted to discern what God says about various aspects of creation (e.g. humanity, the human body, men and women, marriage, etc.), but this Sunday, we respond to all these aspects of creation with the message of the new creation and the people formed by Christ’s resurrection—namely, the church of Jesus Christ.
Indeed, to all the problems we have addressed over this series, to all the intractable complications that we have highlighted, the answer to those problems is not simply trying to go back in time and make the world a better place. Rather, our hope goes in the other direction, where the new creation brought by Christ is the solution to the problems of this creation.
Even as we must know something of the way God made the world, we also need to know how God has begun to effect his new creation in the world. And thus, in our final sermon in this series, we will look at the new creation reality of the church. We will attempt to answer the question: What is the Church? And by answering this question, it should help us to see a clear path forward in a world filled with dead ends—figuratively and literally speaking.
So to prepare for Sunday, re-read Matthew 28:16-20. For background, read Daniel 7:13–14; 2 Chronicles 36:23–24; and Joshua 14:6–15. Each of these Old Testament passages plays a role in understanding Matthew 28:19-20, which in turn informs our understanding of the church today.
Additionally, if you are able, be sure to join us for Sunday School, where I will take some time to apply the Sunday School lesson to the sermon series and answer questions from some of the last few messages. Questions like: What does the pastor think about women voting? (Hint: Wendy and I voted on Tuesday 😀)
I am deeply thankful for the feedback I have received on this sermon series. And I am grateful to God for a church that loves to press into the Word of God and applies it to all of life. Bereans make the best kind of Christians, and our church is filled with such Bereans. To God be the glory!
As we approach Sunday, let us pray that God would give us a greater confidence in the work he is doing in his church today. And let us pray for God to continue manifesting his presence among us, as we gather on Sunday.
As the Lord wills, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
As a reminder, the River Ridge Community Group is in overflow this Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions
What is the Church?
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What has been most influential in your understanding of the church? What time have you spent studying the doctrine of the church in Scripture?
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Why should churches teach about the church? What happens when someone seeks a church without knowing what a church should be?
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The church is one, holy, catholic (universal), apostolic: What are the strengths and weaknesses of this definition?
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What are the key metaphors in Scripture that identify the church? What do these reveal?
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Why is it important to see the church in royal terms? Hint: Read Matthew 24:14; Acts 8:12; Acts 28:30–31.
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What is the relationship between the universal church and the local church? How does Matthew’s Gospel relate the two (read Matthew 16:18 and Matthew 18:15–20).
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Is the Great Commission for individuals or the church? The universal church or local churches? What difference does this make?
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What do we learn about the nature of the church in the Great Commission? How does a church covenant help us be the church?
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What is the chief mission of the gathered church? What are Christians called to / free to do when they enter the world?
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How does a proper understanding of the church help us address all the other issues we have seen in this sermon series?
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What is most encouraging or challenging about being the church? What can you do to reinforce the nature of your local church? In reverse, what are you doing to “de-nature” the local church?
What is a woman?
Answering this question is not difficult, unless you live in America, where over the last decade common sense has become all too uncommon. Except for those who hold fast to the realities of biology and the Bible, the simple question, “What is a woman?” has stumped Supreme Court nominees, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at Johns Hopkins, and countless others who were interviewed by Matt Walsh in his recent documentary, What is a Woman? (If you haven’t seen it yet, you should).
On Sunday, we will take time to answer this question and we will go one step further. We will also answer the question, What is a man?
While our culture teaches us to think in parts and pieces, tidbits and talking points, we will attempt to look at something bigger—namely, what the whole Bible and nature itself says about men and women. Critically, we will see that women cannot be defined without men, nor men without women. Just read 1 Corinthians 11:8–9.
8 For man was not made from woman, but woman from man.
9 Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man.
When God made mankind in his image, he made them male and female (Gen. 1:27). And in that creation, he gave humanity one nature in two forms. And only in relationship to one another can the nature of each be fully understood. So, while it is appropriate to ask, What is a woman? Any answer that ignores men, will be shortsighted. And the same is true in reverse.
Sadly, our world has become so atomized, we don’t think like this. Even Matt Walsh’s eye-opening documentary doesn’t think like this. But by God’s grace, when we open up God’s Word, we will see men and women from the perspective of God himself. And I will warn you, what you may find may challenge how you think about men and women.
As we saw last week, God did not create individuals as individuals, he created image-bearers who are born into families. This means, the basic building block of society is not the single man or woman, it is the family. And individual men and women learn who they are not by looking within, but by looking without—at the mothers who nurse them and the fathers who discipline them. This is how God designed it.
And actually, the absence of family only proves the point. While the sins of abortion, divorce, and abandonment have often fractured these family bonds, they haven’t change the way God ordered his world. They have only marred that order. Likewise, as mad scientists are trying to create life without human parents, they are not changing the nature of humanity, they are only attempting to kill, steal, and destroy that nature—all in the name of research and design. Still, these experiments will end, but God’s nature created order remains. And so does God’s message of redemption.
Therefore, as we stand in the gap to pray for and plead that our neighbors would repent of their sins and to submit to their Maker, we must be able to confidently answer the question: What are men and women? What makes them similar? What makes them different? And why does this matter? Those are some of the questions we will answer on Sunday as we gather to worship.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Numbers 30, Proverbs 31, and 1 Peter 3. On this Father’s Day, those will be just a few of the passages we consider. And to press you to think more closely on this subject, take time to consider how much our culture (and the church!) has changed since the 1950s or the 1850s, when the practices of Numbers 30 were largely still in effect. Ask yourself, has the dissolution of Numbers 30 really served the cause of families, churches, women, and children? Or has it opened the door to all sorts of harm to women, men, and the children of God?
As the Lord allows, I will look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
As a reminder, the Bristow Community Group is in overflow this Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions
What are men and women?
Where did confusion about this question come from? How did feminism contribute to the confusion? How have you seen confusion manifest itself?
In what ways does individualism contribute to confusion about men and women? What about technology?
Why should we start with the human body? What role does anatomy play in defining male and female?
Is gender a social construct? Assigned by doctors or parents? Or is gender defined by God and the sex of the human? Why does this need to be addressed?
Can we say that men and women have behaviors? Or is that being stereotypical? Are stereotypes wrong? How does the Bible speak?
What evidence does the history of civilizations do to help answer the questions about men and women?
Why must we define men and women in relation to one another? See Genesis 1:27; Numbers 30; Proverbs 31; 1 Corinthians 11:8–9.
What direction does the Bible give to us? Is the Bible patriarchal (i.e., families led by and organized around the man)? Why or why not?
What does Numbers 30 teach? Is this only for the Old Testament? Or does it give instruction for today (see 2 Timothy 3:16–17)? If it applies today, how so?
Why is it important to recover a biblical understanding of manliness and womanliness? And how would you begin to do that?
In 2023, few things are more important or more endangered than the family.
Whether we look at divorce rates, or birth rates, or stores celebrating the destruction of the family with transgender bathing suits and binders, from all sides the family is in peril. And if Mary Eberstadt is correct (in her book How the West Really Lost God), the downfall of the family also means the downfall of Christianity.
Indeed, when God made mankind in his image (Gen. 1:26), he made them male and female (Gen. 1:27), so that in marriage they could be fruitful and multiply (Gen. 1:28). Indeed, image-bearing is inseparably connected to the family. And so, if the family is destroyed, so is the image of God, as well as the God who gives shape to our image and likeness. Long story short, it is impossible to have strong families without God, and it is impossible to have God without strong families.
On Sunday, we will see this point in fuller detail. But more than simply lamenting the loss of family values, we will see what Scripture says about the family, so that we can answer the question: What is the family? And from Scripture we will see that a family is not whatever want to make it. Rather, the family, like marriage, is divinely designed by God. And Christians, in all stages of life, need to know what the family is and isn’t.
To that end, you can prepare for Sunday by praying for families in our church and by reading Psalm 127–128. The family is supposed to be a place of blessing, yet it is under great threat and often feels more like a place of cursing. That is what we need to address on Sunday with the hope of the gospel and the promise that God is making a new family of faith, even as his plans in creation continue to inform our own homes and families.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday and worshiping our God and Father, the one who redeems us and brings us into his family by means of his Beloved Son.
As a reminder, the Montclair Community Group is in overflow this Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions
What is the Family?
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In what ways has your family shaped you? Your faith? Your approach to God?
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In what ways have you seen the family hurt over the last few decades? What has been most harmful?
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What do we learn about the family from a survey of the Bible? In creation, fall, redemption, new creation?
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What happens when deny or change the nuclear family (one father, one mother, children) into some other order?
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How does the family provide stability for individual identity? What happens when an individual defines themselves outside the family?
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What roles do men and women play in the family? (More on this next week).
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Why do we need to make the family the basic building block of society? What happens if individuals are the basic building block?
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What are you doing to lead your family to follow the model given in Scripture? What are the greatest threats?
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What is your ultimate hope for your family? How do Jesus’s words about his family (Mark 3) inform your views on the family?
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Take time to pray for your family and others.
‘Marriage … is what brings us … together …today’
This famous line from The Princess Bride reminds us just how many love stories—on screen, or in print, or in the Bible—center on a wedding, a marriage, and the union of a man and a woman. In Scripture too, the Bible begins and ends with a marriage. And along the way, the union of man and woman, plus the children God gives them, stands at the center of what God is doing in the world.
That being the case, we might think that the world would naturally understand what marriage is. And honestly, until "yesterday", the people made in God’s image did know what marriage was and is. That’s not to say that sexual sin was unknown in Corinth or homosexuality was not present in Rome. What it means is that marriage was a God-given institution that men and women entered into; it was not a plastic accessory to be made however one chose.
Yet today, marriage has become an expression of self rather than a shared union between a husband and wife. And accordingly, we need to define again what marriage is. As God created marriage, God’s Word is up for the task of defining marriage.
And so, this Sunday God’s Word about marriage is what brings us together. Indeed, the whole Bible gives us a picture of marriage but we will devote our time to Genesis 2.
To prepare for Sunday, please read that chapter and pray for God to be glorified as we set our minds on his plan for marriage—not just what we do in marriage, but what it is and what it is for. Pray for our time and for the marriages in our congregation. May the Lord continue to sanctify his bride as we gather to worship him.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
As a reminder, the Manassas Community Group is in overflow this Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Genesis 2
What is Marriage?Who taught you about marriage is? What impact did your family
(If married and had pre-marriage counseling): What did you learn in pre-marriage counseling? Was it what marriage was? Or was it how to do have a good marriage?
What is missing if we try to improve marriage (think: 7 tips for a better communications) without understanding the nature of marriage?
What do we learn about marriage in Genesis 1–3? Why do we need to go back before the Fall (Gen 3) to define marriage?
Relatedly: How does Jesus answer questions about marriage (see Matthew 19)?
What changes about our understanding of marriage if we begin with God? If he creates marriage, what implications does that have?
What is marriage for? What is the relationship between the image of God, dominion over the earth, and marriage?
What happens when marriage is disconnected from having children? How might procreation be a truth we rehabilitate in the church?
How do you handle discussions about marriage, homosexuality, so called same sex marriage? How does a better grasp of Genesis 2 help you with that discussion?
Ultimately, why does this matter so much? What is the connection between marriage and the gospel? How is standing for marriage related to the gospel?
Yesterday, Elon Musk made news, not for anything related to Twitter, Tesla, or teasing a new presidential candidate, but for getting the FDA to approve testing for an in-human brain implant. Neuralink is the name of his company, and in the days to come he hopes to help the paralyzed to be able to walk by means of this brain chip. Paralysis and other neurological problems are some of the things he hopes to cure by his technology.
This sounds great, doesn’t it? By means of human innovation, the deaf might hear, the lame might walk, and the blind might see. Indeed, it is truly miraculous. It is also messianic.
When Jesus was asked by John if he was the expected messiah, Jesus turned to the prophesies of Isaiah and said to John. “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me” (Matt. 11:4–6).
By comparison, Elon Musk hopes to do what Jesus did—to heal the sick. Meanwhile, the innovators at Google hope to raise the dead, or at least, to find the key to eternal life. In these ways, such real-life Tony Starks (the wizard scientist in Marvel’s Iron Man) are pushing the boundaries of life and as I will argue on Sunday, they are pushing to change what the human body is.
Just how many modifications can be performed on a human being before that human becomes inhumane? How much Artificial Intelligence can be added to our world, or to our bodies (in the forms of microchips or blood serums), before the basic forms of humanity are changed? If we are made in the image of God, and Satan is working to erase the image of God, what might science and technology—with all of its benefits—do to confuse or change the way we think about human bodies? And in a world of constant change, where we ‘need' to keep up with others, what should our position be on the human body?
In so many ways, these questions require more study and specifics than we can handle in a Sunday sermon. But on Sunday, we will look at this question: Why the human body? What is it for? And what does Scripture say>
Our bodies are not incidental, accidental, or occasional elements of our existence. They are instead essential to who we are and how we experience God and his world. Accordingly, we need to know what God’s Word says about human bodies, so that when technologies allow us to treat the lame, we do not treat Elon Musk or anyone besides Christ as a newfound messiah. Even more, we need to know what God’s intentions for the body is, so that we can glorify God with our bodies.
To this end, we will look at 1 Corinthians 6:13–20 on Sunday. To prepare, take time to read this chapter. Ask yourself what it means to glorify God in your body, and come prepared to hear why your body is not a temple, but is instead a sacrifice to be offered to God. Pray that God would give us wisdom and that we who know Christ would not be offended if and when he calls us to do things with our bodies that others do not.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you—with real bodily presence—on Sunday.
As a reminder, the Dale City Community Group is in overflow this Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
What is the Body For?
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What does the Bible say about the body?
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How does biblical theology (Creation - Fall - Redemption - New Creation) give us a framework for the body?
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How have the arts and sciences challenged our understanding of the body?
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In what ways have a wrong view of sex, marriage, gender, etc., impacted our view of the body?
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Why should we avoid thinking of our bodies as temples? What does it mean that the church body is part of the temple?
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How should we think of the human body? See Romans 12:1–2.
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If our bodies are living sacrifices, what changes does that make for how we live, move, and have our being?
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Anticipating the next sermon or two—how does the nature of the body inform sex, marriage, gender, as well as biblical masculinity and femininity? Are these ethical matters tied to nature or to some choice of the will or the desires of the heart?
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How does a better understanding of the body help you navigate present and future decisions about technology?
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In what ways do you need to help your children navigate the challenges of technology that imposes (and erases?) human nature?
When I watched the reruns of Star Trek as a kid, Captain James T. Kirk would talk to the computer like it was a real person and get all kind of information about the mission he was on. At that time, when Star Trek began in 1966, smartphones, artificial intelligence, not to mention personal computers were science fiction. Today, however, they are all scientific fact!
The fact of the matter is that our world is increasingly automated, computerized, and embodied by artificial intelligence. But if you are paying attention, an embodied computer is but a facsimile of a human. And if today, Siri, or ChatGPT, or Google Bard, or whatever—or is it whoever?—are your conversation partners at work, or home, or on the go, what will it be like in 6, 16 or 60 years?
If it has not been apparent that the sexual revolution and transgenderism movement have endangered the nature and nurture of humanity, then the rise of Artificial Intelligence should make it absolutely clear. In a day when children are given AI, it won’t be long before those children prefer AI to real friends. Likewise, if finding a spouse is difficult today, and the prospect of a good match is running low on the latest dating app, what would keep a man, tutored by AI, to seek a mate who was manufactured at Brides R Us? As odd as that sounds, considering where our world is going, what was science fiction yesterday, is fact today. And what is science fiction today, may not be fiction tomorrow.
Truly, with the increasing likelihood of a world populated by "non-human persons," we need to secure our understanding of humanity. Years ago, I wrote an article calling for a Sixth Sola (Solus Humanus). I would encourage you to read that article this weekend as we prepare for Sunday. Read and think about what God is doing in the world. Then pray over Psalm 8, which will be our passage this Sunday.
As we ask the question, What is Humanity?, we will see what Scripture says as we take another step to better understand the world that God has made. Pray for our time together and rejoice in the chance to gather with the body of Christ. John said that he longed to see the saints face-to-face, and so should we. We are embodied souls and bodily gathering is a gift that God gives us. On Sunday, we will begin to think about what it means to be human. And I pray, as the Lord allows, you will join us.
As a reminder, the Mapledale Community Group is in the overflow this Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 8
What does it mean to be human? Before Sunday how would you answer?
Where have you gotten most of your views on humanity? What needs reconsideration?
What does it mean to be the Image of God? What does Psalm 8 teach us?
How does Psalm 8 point to creation? To the new creation?
Where are the places that the image of God / humanity is under threat today?
What does the incarnation teach us? What errors does the incarnation help us avoid?
How should Christians think about technology? Artificial Intelligence? Automation?
What is our hope—in this life and in the life to come?
What other questions do you have about humanity today?
Where are we?
This is an important question, especially if you have been dropped off in a place you don't know. Or, you are visiting somewhere for the first time.
In truth, lostness is a part of life. When God created the world, he made it big, with large stretches of land and sea. Then, when he brought Noah and his family through the flood, he added mountains and valleys, languages and cultures. As a result, all humans have experienced the paralyzing effects of not knowing where we are and not knowing (for a short time or a long time) how to find our bearings.
Thinking about this, we realize that “finding ourselves” in this world requires more than a good GPS. While we may know our coordinates on the planet, we may be equally confused about how to think about the planet itself. That is to say, while we may have a map on our phones, if we are interpreting the world around us by the tools given to us by a secular and secularizing world, we may not have any idea that God dwells in heaven and we are on earth, in the place that we are (Acts 17:25), because he put us here and defined our boundaries.
Moreover, without the right tools for interpretation, we may try to find ourselves in ways entirely at odds with our Creator. Such is the condition of postmodern humanity. For all the technological know-how that we have acquired, we have lost something valuable in our world—namely, a right understanding of the cosmos. After all, what is the world?
Even for those who have grown up in church, the stories of Creation and the Flood must contend with Darwin and his disciples. The miracles of Jesus must overcome our modern commitment to natural causation. And our belief in Jesus's virgin birth and third day resurrection must be treated as facts of history, not not just ethical fictions like Aesop’s Fables or the tales of Harry Potter. And those are a just a few of the ideas that contend for space in our world and elevate the question: Where are we?
To help us get our bearings, we began a sermon series last week called “The Business of Is-ness,” which introduces us to something called Ontology (the study of the way things are). If you missed it, you should go listen to the first message. It will pave the way for this week’s message on Cosmology. Cosmology is a study of the universe. And Sunday, we will look at Psalm 104 to see the world God has made. Indeed, to understand our place in the world requires a right understanding of God’s Three-Story Universe. Yes, the world has three stories, and if that doesn’t make sense, then it’s likely you are working with a cosmology taught in public high schools instead of God’s Word.
Again, this is why we need to study Ontology.
To prepare for worship, take time to read Psalm 104. As best you can, take note of the seven days of creation in that Psalm. On Sunday, we will walk through the seven days of creation to understand the universe and our place in it. Indeed, for all of us living in a secular world, we need to embrace a sacred view of creation. And Sunday, by God’s grace, we can take a first step.
Please pray for our time together and for the Lord to continue to shed his light upon us as we seek the light of his glory in the face of Jesus Christ. As a reminder, the County Center Community Group is in the overflow this Sunday. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 104
In what ways do you think about the world in which you live? What has influenced that understanding?
What is a biblical cosmology? How is that similar too or different than a scientific understanding?
What does it mean to have a sacred view of the world? How could that go wrong? What does that redeem?
What is the relationship between Genesis 1 and Psalm 104? Have you seen that before? Why do we struggle to see those connections?
What does it mean that God clothed himself with light?
What are the three stories of the universe? How does the concept of a three-tier universe reform your thinking about the world?
How does Psalm 104 incorporate the story of salvation? For instance, what do we learn about the flood? About beasts, man, and Satan?
What is the goal of creation? How does Psalm 107 communicate that hope?
What else did you learn about the world? What questions remain?
It depends on what the meaning of ‘is’ is.”
Those infamous words, uttered by Bill Clinton in 1998 should have told us that the world and everything in it was already succumbing to the deconstructive forces of postmodernism. Postmodernism claims that meaning is no longer found in what a human author intends or what the Author of life declares. Rather, meaning is decided by individuals or local groups interpreting, or in most cases reinterpreting the words others.
In college after college, postmodern ideas have sprung to life from the 1960s on, and by 1998 such revisions of meaning were emerging in the public square. Bill Clinton’s elusive response to a question about his relations with Monica Lewinsky were not abnormal for a culture celebrated for transgression (think: the Hippies of the 1960s), raised on MTV (think: the teens of the 1980s), or enslaved to self-expression instead of submission to the truth (every American born since WWII).
Fast forward 25 years, add two decades of social media, a handful of contested elections, one global pandemic, and endless woke crusades in public schools and city streets, and it is not just language that has come under assault, it is everything that God upholds by the word of his power. To be certain, Christ the Lord reigns in heaven. But on earth, all is not well. And in our day, we can’t even figure out what a man is, why women’s sports should only include women, or why children should not be exposed to Drag Queens in public library.
In a word, the world has gone mad. And its insanity began when words could mean anything, or nothing, or something at one time and not another.
Many have rightly claimed that those who define the terms, decide the turf. And this means that in our day, we are at war for the dictionary. As Adam was charged to name the animals, so we are watching Adam’s heirs renaming everything. Only instead of naming the world as it is, we are like Adam trying to remake the world in our own image. Instead of receiving God’s world and giving thanks, we are trying to create new worlds. And don’t think that a few old fashion pronouns can get in the way. This is our world!
As Christians, called to salvation and commissioned to bring the light of the gospel to all nations, we cannot sit back and watch. Instead, we must take up our Bibles and hack to pieces the lies that are destroying our neighbors and sending people to hell. We must learn afresh what Scripture means when it says, God made us in his image and he made us male and female. We must learn what this world is, what humans are, and why it matters.
To this end, we will spend the next 7 weeks looking at the dictionary. And that means, we will open our Bibles to define some terms. Instead of just looking at the Bible to see what works (pragmatism). We will be looking at the Bible to see what is (ontology). Ontology is the “study of being,” and in May and June, it is our task to learn something about what is, and what is not.
Thus, beginning this Sunday, we will begin with one single verse—Genesis 1:1. This verse is arguably the most decisive verse in the Bible today. And so we will begin this new series, Ontology: The Business of Is-Ness, with an extended meditation on this verse and what it means for us today.
So to prepare for Sunday, take time to read that verse. Then take time to look up any other verses that you might think relate to that verse. Take time to consider what that verse says about God, about the world, and about the way things are. That is what we will do Sunday, as we pray for God to give us light so that we can be light in the world.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday as we open the Scriptures to see the light of the glory of God in his creation and in his Son, Jesus Christ, As a reminder, the Springwoods Community Group is in the overflow this Sunday.
For His Glory and for your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Genesis 1:1
What does the word ontology mean? Why does it matter?
Where do you see the meaning of words being assaulted today? How do you respond to that?
In what ways do Christians need to learn (or relearn) the doctrine of creation?
What do you learn about God in Genesis 1:1? What do you learn about creation?
Have you taken the time to study what Scripture says about humanity, gender, marriage, family, nations, or the church? What are you hoping to learn?
How does Exodus 16, the story of manna help us apply Genesis 1:1 today?
How should you respond to God as creator?
What is your responsibility to your neighbors in declaring the message of Creation?
If you joined us on Good Friday, you heard the good news that "It is finished" is a reference to the temple. On the cross, Jesus finished his temple building. Like God in Genesis 2, Moses in Exodus 40, and Hezekiah in 2 Chronicles 31, Jesus‘s words harken back to the completion of a temple.
But if the cross finished the temple, what does that mean for us now? Where do we see the temple? And how does the finished work of Christ relate to the resurrection, the outpouring of the Spirit, and the formation of Spirit-filled temples (i.e., local churches)?
To those questions, we will find answers this Sunday. In John 20:19–31, we will see the way that Jesus brings peace to his disciples, pours out his Spirit upon them, and begins to grant life to them. John even says that this is the purpose of his book. And so, as we draw to another meditation on Christ’s resurrection, we will see how the word of Christ, and the Spirit of God, and the word of Scripture bring life to all those who are made a part of Christ’s living and growing temple.
As you have time, read over John 20, as well as, Acts 2. Sunday we will see the way that the Spirit of Truth begins to assemble the finished work of Christ.
As you come, please pray for our church. Last Sunday, we had the joy of hosting more than 350 people at OBC. We continue to rejoice in those who are coming, even as we feel the stewardship of caring for all who join us.
As a reminder, the Community Group scheduled for our overflow seating is the Montclair Community Group.
If our parking lot is filled to maximum capacity, we encourage you to take advantage of the overflow parking along the shoulder of Springwoods Drive, and also at Old Bridge Veterinary Hospital.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday and worshiping our resurrected Christ.
As we said last week and should say every Lord’s Day: He is risen. He is risen indeed.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 20:19 – 31
How does Jesus greet his disciples (vv. 19, 21, 26). Why do you think he greets them in this way? (Cf. John 14:27; 16:33)
How does the breathing of the Spirit relate to John’s Gospel? What is the significance to the number 10 — ten disciples receive the Spirit. So what?
Consider the connection between the commissioning of the disciples and Jesus breathing on them. How do we understand this text about the Spirit in relationship to Pentecost?
How would you explain what Jesus is teaching about forgiveness? How does the context shape our understanding of this?
How does the church pronounce forgiveness today? By what authority does the church make this proclamation? Is it an authority given to individuals or churches?
Why did John write his gospel? How does the Gospel give life today? Think about what just happened in vv. 19–29.
Considering the thesis for John’s gospel, how does the drama of this book reach its height with Thomas?
What have you believed about Jesus? Why have you believed?
What is the encouragement for those who have not seen Jesus?
What is the promise for all who believe?
How should we respond to the Gospel of John?
If you have never heard S.M. Lockridge’s famous exclamation of “Sunday’s Coming,” today is the day. It’s the best way to spend four minutes today.
And hearing Shadrach Meshach Lockridge proclaim Christ is a perfect way to prepare for our service tonight at 7:00pm where we will gather to consider Jesus’s sixth word: It is Finished!
Truly, our hope rests in the finished work of Christ and the resurrection of Christ from the dead. In the cross, Jesus paid the penalty for our sins and in his resurrection he was raised for our justification—a justification granted to us by grace through faith.
Then on Sunday, John 20:1-18 will be our Easter passage, where we will see Peter and John running to the empty tomb and Mary Magdalene meeting Jesus, the firstborn of a new creation.
In preparation for tonight and Sunday, I would encourage you to read John 19–20. Additionally, pray for the Word to go forward to grant life and invite friends and family to join us for these two celebrations of life. I look forward to seeing you tonight and Sunday, as the Lord allows.
May Christ be magnified this weekend. And may we rejoice in the grace of his cross and resurrection.
For Christ’s Glory and your joy in him,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 20:1 – 18
In looking at the narrative of John, when does it pivot from Jesus’ body being missing to bearing witness about the resurrection?
What is believed in v. 8? How does John’s commentary help (v. 9)?
Who is the first witness to our risen Lord? Would this testimony be valued or devalued in the first century?
Consider the repeated question of verses 13 and 15. How does the resurrection change everything?
Contrast this garden scene with Genesis 3. What similarities or differences do you notice? (i.e. angels in the garden, God present with his people, Adam being sought, sorrow being introduced and removed, etc.).
Why does John include Aramaic phrases at different points in his Gospel?
What is Jesus teaching about his ascension? (v. 17). How should we understand this?
How does Jesus speak of the disciples and the Father? What is unique here?
How should we respond to the resurrection of Jesus?
On Sunday, we enter Holy Week. Beginning with Palm Sunday, we are called to remember all that Christ did, said, and suffered on the way to his cross.
If you want to reflect on these pivotal days, you can use this PDF to see the key events in each Gospel. It is a 40-Day reading plan that is keyed to Andreas Köstenberger and Justin Taylor’s The Final Days of Jesus. Even if you can’t cram 40-days into a week ;-), you can use the OT selections to see the backdrop of the events, especially those reference in John 19.
John 19:16-42 is the place where we will spend our Sunday. Over the course of these 27 verses, we will see seven snapshots from the cross of Christ. In each, they will help us to know Christ and the meaning of his cross. As you have time, read these verses and pray for the cross of Christ to be a word of hope for all of us, but especially for those who do not yet know Christ as their Savior.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday. I missed being at OBC last week and it is my greatest joy to return home to worship Christ with our family of faith. We have so many things to celebrate every Sunday, but especially during Holy Week. May the Lord be praised in our gathering, and as we approach Easter, may we prayerfully consider who to invite to hear the good news of Christ’s death and resurrection.
As a reminder, the Community Group scheduled for our overflow seating is the Manassas Community Group.
If our parking lot is filled to maximum capacity, we encourage you to take advantage of the overflow parking along the shoulder of Springwoods Drive, and also at Old Bridge Veterinary Hospital.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 19:17 – 27
How is John presenting Jesus to us in John 19? How does the location of the crucifixion inform our understanding?
What might we observe about Jesus’ kingship? His priesthood? His sacrifice?
Consider the “behold” statements of verses 26-27.
What reason does John give for this testimony about Jesus’ crucifixion? (See verse 35)
Notice the repetition about fulfilling the Scriptures (vv. 24, 28, 36, 37).
What does this passage reveal about Jesus? What Scriptures have been fulfilled? Consider the following texts:
Ps 22:18
Ps 69:21
Ex 12:46; Num 9:12
Zech 12:10
In what ways is Jesus our Passover Lamb? (See also 1 Cor 5:7)
How should John 10:17-18 shape how we understand John 19:30?
What do you think is significant about the water and the blood in verse 34?
How might the temple theme in John’s Gospel, as well as Genesis 2:21–23 inform our reading?
How should we respond to this text?
Dear OBC Family,
This Sunday we will continue in our series in the Gospel of John, and I invite you to read John 19:1-16 in preparation for worship. This is a difficult text as we behold the world’s greatest injustice in the mistreatment and sufferings of our Lord, and the unjust sentence of execution by crucifixion. As we gather this Sunday and in the weeks ahead, may we fix our eyes on Jesus and behold the sufferings of our Savior. May we rejoice in the salvation we have been given in his finished work!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions for John 19:1 – 16
What might we learn from the ironies of the farcical worship (vv. 1-3) and the charge brought by the Jews (v. 7)?
Consider the thorns, the cross, the innocence of Jesus, and Pilate’s pronouncement “Behold the man!” Theologically, how do these observations add up? (Consider the following texts: Gen 3:17-19; Deut 21:18-21; Rom 5:15-21; Gal 3:10-14).
Notice how Pilate and the chief priests both act contrary to their beliefs. Pilate, against his knowledge of the innocence of Jesus, and the chief priests in claiming loyalty to Caesar (Deut 17:14-15). How would you explain this? What conclusions should we draw from this?
What does Jesus teach Pilate about his authority? Consider also John 10:18. How should this frame our understanding of the events that are unfolding in our text?
Consider Pilate’s pronouncement “Behold your King!” and the crowd’s rejection of Jesus (vv. 6, 12, 15) in light of John 1:9-13.
How should we respond to Christ’s kingship? (See Psalm 2; Rev 19:11-16).
Consider the lyrics to Isaac Watt’s hymn “Joy to the World.” What does he present as implications of Christ’s kingship?
As we consider Jesus in John 19:1-16, how ought we to respond to this text?
From priesthood to kingship, the trial of Jesus unveils many facets of who Christ is. And this week, as the two high priests (Annas and Caiaphas) bring Jesus to Pilate, we will see a debate about who is truly on the throne.
Indeed, in John 18:28–40, we will take the next step in the account of Jesus’s trial. Yet, as with all of John, we are not simply looking to consider historical details. Those are given. What John is showing us in this account is the way that Jesus Christ is the king who lays down his life for his kingdom. That’s what we will see on Sunday.
As you have time, please read John 18:28–40 and Deuteronomy 16:18–17:13. This passage in Deuteronomy will help us understand what is going on, and what is going wrong, in the trial of Jesus.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday and to worshiping our great king who gave his life to pay for our sins, so that we could be forgiven and brought into his kingdom. As a reminder the County Center Community Group is in the overflow this Sunday. And all of us will gather for worship at 10:00am.
For His Glory and your joy in the Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 18:28 – 40
What does the movement of John 18–19 tell us about the events?
How does Deuteronomy 16:18–17:13 provide interpretive light for the trials of Jesus?
What is ironic about the priests’ pursuit of holiness in v. 28?
How does Jesus describe his kingdom and his kingship?
What can be learned about Pilate from his questions?
What does Pilate conclude about Jesus? What does that say about the priests?
What is the contrast between Jesus and Barabbas? What does this illustrate for us?
What do we learn about Jesus’s kingdom? Is that kingdom present, future, or both?
What attributes of Christ does this passage highlight?
How should we respond to this text?
Peter, do you love me? You know I do.
Peter, do you love me? You know I do.
Peter, do you love me? You know I do.
In John 21, Simon Peter is asked three times to confess his love for Jesus. Why three times? Because in John 18—the passage before us this Sunday—Peter denied Jesus three times, just like Jesus said he would in John 13.
Wonderfully, Jesus forgave and restored Peter as they ate fish on the side of the lake. But until then, the three denials of Christ devastated Peter and brought everything into question.
Today, we are given chances to stand for Christ too. And the question we must ask ourselves is this: How will we fare differently than Peter? What caused this disciple to deny Christ? And what will keep us from doing the same?
Even more, who is the Christ we are confessing? And how does that knowledge empower us to declare our allegiance when the world around us threatens those who confess Christ. These questions and more will be addressed this Sunday as we look at John 18:12–27.
To prepare for Sunday, read John 18–19. Pray that God would open our eyes to see who Christ is and that the Spirit might open our eyes to see ways we are trusting in ourselves and are compromised in our allegiance to Christ.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. As a reminder the Springwood's Community Group is in the overflow this Sunday. And all of us will gather for worship at 10:00am.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 18:15 – 27
How did Jesus prepare his disciples for this event? Read John 13:36-38, and consider in light of John 18:15-27.
Notice how Peter fights (John 18:10-11) and follows (John 18:15-16), and the discontinuity with his denials. How should we understand this?
In what way does Scripture speak about denying Christ? (Matt 10:32-33)
What does this scene reveal about Jesus? (Luke 22:31-32; 2 Tim 2:11-13)
In what ways are we tempted to disassociate ourselves with Christ today? What are the motives (idols) with this kind of temptation?
What does the scene in the high priest’s home reveal about Jesus? (vv. 19-24)
What does this scene reveal about the legal process that is unfolding?
As we look at Peter’s three denials, is there hope for those who deny Christ? Why or why not?
How ought we to respond to this text?
Spend time praying that the Lord would give us boldness to confess faith in Christ in the midst of a hostile world.
A number of years ago, I heard a sermon entitled “I Am Not, But I Know I Am.”
That’s a good way to think about life. God is at the center and we are not. We do not live for ourselves, but for God alone. And this Sunday, we are going to see a passage of Scripture that maintains that same perspective.
Or better, by God’s grace, it is a place in John 18 that may grant us that perspective.
Indeed, to deny ourselves and put Christ at the center of our lives, is not something we can do for ourselves. It takes God, his Word, and his Spirit to give us life from above. And this life from above is what gives us a longing to see Christ first and most.
Indeed, when the question is asked: Who are you? Or, in our day, What are your pronouns? We would do well to respond, I am NOT, but I know I AM.
On Sunday, we will see Jesus identifying himself as the I AM. And by listening carefully to his words, and watching the scene unfold in his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, we will learn much about who he is and who we are too.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 18:1–14. And if you have time, read all of John 18–19. Take note of the way this whole scene begins and ends in a garden. Indeed, Jesus's death on the cross is the beginning of a new creation. And starting tomorrow and going until Easter Sunday, we will see how new creation dawns.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on the Lord’s Day.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 18:1-14Read John 18:1-14.
How would you describe Jesus from this text?
What repetition do you see? What does this reveal is central to this text? How does the chiastic structure of the text help that central point stand out?
Consider the “I am” statements in John. How does this text speak of Jesus? How do they respond when Jesus speaks in verse 6? How should this shape our understanding of this event and what follows?
Consider the initiative and authority of Jesus’ words in this passage. When you think of Jesus’ arrest, do you usually think of his majesty and authority, or do you think of him more as a victim? How does John present him? Who is in charge?
What is the cup that Jesus will drink? How does Scripture speak of this cup? (Cp. Matt 20:22; 26:39-42; Isa 51:22)
In Genesis 3, God seeks Adam and Eve in the garden. Here in John 18, Jesus is sought in the garden. How would you compare/contrast these events?
Did you see any temple or sacrifice imagery in John 18? What might we notice?
From this passage, what do we learn about Judas and Peter? And how do their responses inform our own response to Christ?
As we behold Christ in this passage, how ought we to respond to this text?
Paul instructs us that "we have the mind of Christ" (1 Cor 2:16), but too often our minds are too far from his. John 17 affords us one of the rare opportunities to eavesdrop on the mind of Christ as he prays to the Father for himself, for his disciples, and for those of us who would follow. In this intimate portrait of Jesus -- before he goes willingly to die -- we begin to see the glory of God in a way that Moses never imagined when he asked God for that same privilege generations before. Read John 17, and let the prayer of Jesus move you toward him as we gather together this Lord's Day.
Pastor Jared
Discussion & Response Questions for John 17
Looking at Jesus’ prayer in John 17, how is it organized? What are the main themes of this prayer?
How is the Father described in this prayer? How does Jesus speak of himself?
What does Jesus pray for himself?
What does Jesus pray for his disciples?
What does Jesus pray for those who do not yet believe?
Look through this chapter and identify the verses where Jesus talks about glory and glorification. What does this prayer teach us about the glory of God?
Consider what it looks like for Jesus’ prayer to be answered. As the Father answers the prayer of the Son, what will be true for the church?
Jesus prays for the unity of the church. What does this look like, and how is it achieved?
How ought we to live in response to these truths?
Few places in the Bible are more glorious than the prayer of Jesus in John 17. Not only does it show us how Jesus prays for his disciples and us!! But it also reveals the relationship between the Father and the Son.
On Sunday, we will take the first pass through this chapter as we consider the the glory, grace, and gospel of our Triune God. As you have time, read John 17 and then read it again. It’s that good!
Also, as we prepare for Sunday please pray for the youth who are “retreating” in the mountains and for all of us as we gather to worship the Lord.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday as we see the glories of the gospel in John 17.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 17
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What is the context of John 17? And how does it fit with what Jesus said in John 13-16?
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In Jesus’s prayer, what do we learn about the Father, Son, and Spirit?
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What do we learn about Jesus’s mission on earth? How does this relate to eternity past?
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What is the glory of God revealed in this passage, and how does the work of Christ glorify the Father? And reciprocally, how does the Father glorify the Son?
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What are somethings that we learn about grace in this passage? Think: Who? When? What? Why? How?
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What is the relationship between this prayer and the ongoing ministry of the Spirit and the church?
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How does this prayer fuel the gospel? And how does the gospel glorify the grace of God?
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What else did you learn about God in this passage? And how does that knowledge build faith and motivate your own prayer?
Whether it is the time for the test, time for the wedding, or time for the big game, there is something exhilarating and terrifying about these two words:
It’s time!
When the time comes, all pretense, all preparation, all patience is over, and now the event—however important or trivial—is here. This is true in life, in death, and everywhere in between.
God made his world to run on time. And that means, when he spun the planets around the sun and turned the earth on it axis, he created time and a world filled with hours and days. Time is not something that confines God, nor defines God, for he is outside of the time he created. Still, in his world, there is a beginning, a middle, and an end. And in these moments of time, God has worked a plan of redemption.
Not surprisingly, in making everything in his world to glorify his name, God centered his son in the middle of time. In a sense, all time turns around the cross of Christ and this climactic moment in history. And in John’s Gospel, the “hour” for which Christ came is now here.
On Sunday, we come to the moment when Jesus says, “It’s time.” In John 16:16–33, the references to time are intense. In fact, when you look at the verses, it looks like looking at the wall of a clock store—imagining that a such store still exists. it seems, the time for clock stores seem to have passed. But imagining what a clock store might look like, John 16 gives us the literary equivalent. And on Sunday it will be time to look at how Jesus prepares for his time on the cross.
To prepare for Sunday, please read John 16. We will finish this chapter on Sunday as contemplate the sacrifice of Christ, which gave birth to his church. Please pray for our time and for our hearts to not take our time for granted.
As the Lord allows, I will look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 16:16 – 33
How does Jesus interact with the disciples questions, and how does their understanding grow in this text?
What examples does Jesus give to illustrate the “little while” of sorrow, which will be replaced by joy? What do these figures of speech reveal?
Consider the movement of the disciples from sorrow to joy, in contrast to the world’s joy (vv. 20-24).
How does Jesus characterize the joy that is coming?
How would you explain what Jesus is about prayer?
What is “that day” that Jesus speaks of? What characterizes it?
What are the hours that Jesus describes? Are they identical or different? Do they apply to the apostles only, or also to the saints today?
How does Jesus bring the disciples from bad news (v. 32) to peace (v. 33)?
How does Jesus intend for his disciples to “take heart”? What does it look like for us to “take heart” today?
How ought we to respond to these truths?
Who can stand before his cold?
This is a question that the Psalmist asks in Psalm 147:17. And it is a meditation that Job offers as well. A couple years ago, we even contemplated this point, when snow kept us from gathering.
This Sunday, we will gather (DV), as no snow is forecasted. But we will feel the cold a bit more. As we have mentioned, the central heating in our church is being repaired and the parts needed are coming from some supply chain, somewhere. The Lord knows, but we do not. They tell us it will be a couple more weeks. And we should pray for that to be the case—or shorter.
Until then, with colder temperatures coming this weekend, our sanctuary might feel a little cooler than normal. That said, let such mild discomfort remind us of why we worship—to bring a sacrifice of praise. At the same time, may we give thanks for the increasing number of warm bodies filling our sanctuary. God has been remarkably kind to us. And this Sunday, we will remember that kindness and sing praises to his greatness, as we gather for worship.
To prepare, put on an extra layer and pray that the warmth of God’s love would kindle our hearts. As we look at John 16 on Sunday, may we marvel with the Psalmist at God’s creation and more the new creation which comes by the Spirit.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday—blankets and stocking caps accepted :-)
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 16:1 – 15
What are “these things” from 16:1? Review Jesus’ prior teaching before this passage.
How is Jesus protecting his disciples by his teaching? What is he protecting them from?
Consider how being treated as apostate by the synagogues would challenge the disciples. Why is it so important for the disciples to keep these things in mind (vv. 3-4)?
Notice Jesus’ timing for his words (vv. 4, 12). What does this reveal to us about Him?
How should one understand 16:5?
Do you believe that it is to your advantage that Jesus has gone away? (v. 7)
If one has difficulty trusting Jesus’ words in verse 7, how might their understanding of the Spirit need to grow?
How is the work of the Spirit described by Jesus? (vv. 7-15)
How is the Spirit’s work related to the Father and Son?
How ought we to respond to this text? How should we then live in light of these truths?
Last Sunday we considered the vital union between Christ and his people. As the Vine gives life to his branches, so we his branches must abide in the Vine to glorify God and love one another.
With such attention to God’s love, it might seem that the more a church or a Christian loves God and loves others, the more the world will love him. After all, love begets love. Right?
Well, as we will see this week, the world does not love those who love God. Just the opposite. The more we abide in the vine and commit ourselves to God and his love, the more the world hates us. And lest we be shocked and dismayed by this response, Jesus tells us in John 15:18–16:4 to expect such hatred, opposition, and persecution. On Sunday, we will consider his words and how they apply to our lives today.
As you have time, read John 15 to prepare for Sunday’s worship. Additionally, bake your cakes or pick up your cookies, because on Sunday night at 6:00pm, we will have our new years members meeting with desserts (!!) which kicks off the new year. You won’t want to miss the elders report and the announcements of what we are doing in 2023.
For both gatherings, please pray. As John 15 tells us, we can do nothing apart from Christ. And so let us pray that Christ would bless us with the Spirit as we assemble on Sunday.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 15:18–16:4
As you read John 15:18–16:4, how is the world compared and contrasted with Jesus’ disciples?
What do you observe about Father, Son, and Spirit in this text?
What defines the world’s relationship to Christ and his disciples? What explanation does Jesus provide for why this is the case?
What is the relationship between Jesus’ coming, his speaking to the world, and his works, and the guilt of the world? What wrong conclusions should we guard against?
When you think of “culture wars,” how does this text inform the Christian’s engagement in society?
How is the Spirit described? What is the Spirit’s work? What is not the Spirit’s work?
How is the disciples’ work connected to the Spirit’s work?
How might persecuted and suffering Christians be encouraged by this passage?
How ought we to respond to this text?
"By this my father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples."
If you have spent a fair amount of time in a church that worships Jesus, you may have heard a lot of references to being fruitful and "bearing fruit". My memories of this actually are somewhat negative as the way I learned about what fruit was focused solely on the salvation of souls, and how we were responsible for this to happen. The takeaway therefore was along the lines of "you better get busy, follower of Christ, or you won't have any fruit to show"! The effect of that emphasis produced in me stressors and undue pressure to get people saved. Then, if someone I witnessed to didn't respond, I felt I was failing the King of Heaven!
Having a desire for people's salvation is of course a desired outcome of all our ministry efforts, but those misplaced pressures on us to effect such a salvation is incorrect. We are powerless to give life to anything when we think about it, why would we ever assume we can give eternal life? As his name implies ("YWHW saves"), Jesus alone has the power to save us from our sins. It is his work (2 Tim 1:9) and he is faithful to complete it (Phil 1:6).
Join us on Sunday as we study John 15:1-17, the familiar account of Jesus identifying himself as the vine, and us as the branches. The Father addresses our fruitfulness as he tends the vine, as only he can. Let us together discover that fruit has a variety of applications but the key to growing it and sustaining it is abiding in Christ. Then we really just need to trust Christ to grow this in us all.
Lord willing, I look forward to seeing you this Sunday!
To the praise of his glory, in gratitude for our joy,
Pastor Ron
Discussion & Response Questions for John 15:1–17How does Jesus' declaration of being the "true vine" tie him back to historical Israel?
Who is the audience for this section of the discourse? How does this help us understand verses like verse 6?
What are the scriptural references to fruit? What can we learn from these examples?
Notice the recurring themes in these verses: what does "remaining in me" imply?
How are the spiritual disciplines of prayer, immersion in scripture, and fellowship illustrated in this text?
What does Jesus promise if we keep his commands? Compare with earlier promises from 13:15-16, & 23.
What is significant about how Jesus moves from calling his disciples branches to his friends?
"I will never leave you, nor forsake you."
These are some of the most comforting words in the Bible. They were first spoken to Joshua and later applied to all those who trust in Jesus Christ, the greater Joshua (Heb. 13:6). And they are very similar to words we find in John 14:18, "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." Together, these verses are ones we should commit to memory or meditate on with regularity.
Still, a question should be asked: How do we know that these words are true? Have not all of us faced relationships where the promiser broke his word? Have we not experienced times with God when it felt like his promise was uncertain? Or that his plans led to greater harm than good?
Indeed, experience is wonderful teacher, but a terrible master. And yet, we are prone to trust our experiences more than God’s promise. And when that happens, we lose all manner of peace and the knowledge of God’s love.
This Sunday we will address this very thing and as we look at Jon 14:15–31. In the second half of this chapter, we will see how the Son’s unbreakable union with the Father is the foundation of the promise of God’s unbreakable grace to us—that is, to those who trust him and believe his Word.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 14. It is filled with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. From our triune Creator, we find a message of sustaining grace and love. And on Sunday, we will dive into this glorious chapter. Pray for our time in the Word and for those who join us.
Last Sunday, we had the added joy of an 70 people — at least by comparison to the previous week. This reminds us all to look for ways to keep open seats “open,” and hospitality as a gracious priority.
In all, let us look with anticipation to gathering for worship on Sunday and remembering why we can trust God and his unbreakable promise of love and peace.
As the Lord allows, I hope to see you on Sunday.
For God’s glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 14:15-31
Jesus continues to teach about his departure. What does he emphasize in this section of teaching?
What are the three sections of John 14:15–31? How does seeing this arrangement help make sense of these verses?
Across these three sections, love is a key theme. What do we learn about loving Jesus? (See v. 15, 21, 23-24, 28).
How does Jesus comfort their troubled hearts again? (See v. 27, and look back to v. 1).
What does Jesus reveal about the Holy Spirit? How do they know him?
As Jesus speaks about his departure, what does he promise to the disciples?
What distinctions does Jesus draw between the world and his disciples? What role does the Word play in this distinction?
What important differences should we note between the Father and Son’s unity, and the union that is shared between Jesus’ disciples and himself? How can we avoid error when speaking about God? (Hint: All language about God is analogical).
Who will send the Spirit? Why will the Spirit be sent? What will the Spirit do?
What is Jesus seeking to accomplish in his disciples by this instruction?
How ought we to respond to these truths?
We often face questions, and if you are a parent, it’s likely you hear some of these more often. Where are you going? Why can’t I go with you? Can I come with you now? How do we get there?
This Sunday we will return to the Gospel of John and we will examine a conversation between Jesus and his disciples as he teaches them about his departure and responds to their questions.
Our text places us back in the Upper Room as Jesus teaches his disciples during his final hours before his betrayal and arrest. I invite you to read John 13:36-14:14 and meditate on Jesus who is the way, the truth, and the life as you prepare your heart for worship.
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday as we gather to worship our Lord!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions for John 13:36-14:14
In the sermon’s text, there’s three exchanges between Jesus and his disciples. What similarities or differences do you observe between these conversations?
Jesus promises that his disciples will follow him afterward (13:36). How does this series of conversations explain how this will happen?
What does this teaching reveal about the nature of Jesus’ relationship to the Father? Why is this crucial? (vv. 9-11)
What might we learn from Peter’s correction? How is that connected to 14:1-4?
What does Jesus command his disciples in 14:1 and 14:11? What is Jesus seeking to bring about in his disciples through this instruction?
John 14:6 is an exclusive statement, declaring that salvation is found in Christ alone. Does this make you uncomfortable, or do you see it as revealing the glory of Christ?
How do you navigate conversations with those outside of Christianity when it comes to the truth that salvation is only found in Christ?
What encouragement does Jesus offer to those who believe? (vv. 12-14)
How might we guard against misapplying this text on prayer?
How ought we to respond to this week’s text?
At the end of the year, we often find ourselves tying up loose ends. Maybe it's taking the last of your vacation days, finishing up a 2022 project, or checking in to see if you completed your New Years Resolutions—you know, the one from January 1, 2022. For us, at OBC, we will finish the year (and start the new year) by looking at the last part of Isaiah.
Since November, we’ve been seeing how the Lord promised to bring salvation to the world, and in the birth of Christ we have celebrated Salvation’s arrival. Now, as we come to the first day of the new year (Sunday is January 1), we will finish Isaiah and its promise of a new creation. Indeed, Sunday we will start the new year with a focus on the new creation.
In doing this, we will tie up some loose ends from Isaiah, showing how the whole book fits together and leads us to Christ and the New Jerusalem. What better way to begin 2023?
To prepare for our last look at Isaiah, take time to read Isaiah 65–66. That’s where we will be going on Sunday. As you ring in the new year, check out those chapters (or all of Isaiah 55–66) and pray that God would bless us as we gather to bless his holy name. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
May the Lord be glorified as we begin the new year worshiping him.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 55 – 66
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What has been eye-opening in reading / studying Isaiah?
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What has been the most difficult part to grasp?
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The next time you read Isaiah, how will you read it differently? (Why can’t you read Isaiah like John or Paul?)
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What is the main point of Isaiah 55–66? How does it relate to Isaiah 49–54? And the beginning of Isaiah?
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Who is the Spirit-anointed Savior? How do these “Spirit songs” anticipate the coming of Christ?
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What does Isaiah 55–66 teach you about God? About humanity? About God’s plans for salvation and judgment?
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What is final vision for humanity—for Israel and the nations? How does Zion play a part of that vision?
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How is the church already experiencing Zion? See Hebrews 12:22–24.
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What is the new creation? Is the new creation present? Future? Or both?
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As you approach the new year, what promises of God are you hoping in?
Sermon Introduction
At Christmas, and throughout the rest of the year, we celebrate Jesus Christ as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). But this week, as we take our next step in Isaiah, we will see how the promised messiah brings peace as a servant-king who lays down his life for the sins of his people.
Indeed, the entire book of Isaiah has been awaiting the birth of the son, on whom the kingdom of God could be built. But now in Isaiah 49–54, we find out who this royal heir is and how he will bring peace to the earth.
If you are looking for peace this Christmas, look no further than Isaiah. In Isaiah 48:22, we start with the sad and sober assessment that sin denies lasting peace. Yet, by Isaiah 54:10, we discover something called the covenant of peace, which cannot be removed. Wonderfully, Isaiah 49–54 tells us how this transition occurs and how the person and work of Christ stands at the center. This is what we are going to see on Sunday, as the Lord allows us to gather together.
To prepare for worship, let me encourage you to read these six chapters (Isaiah 49–54) and pray for our time of worship. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday, and to marveling with you at the God of peace, who makes peace with sinners, who do not deserve his peace. For truly, this is grace and the good news that we celebrate at Christmas and throughout the rest of the year too.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 49 – 54
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What is the problem that Isaiah 49-54 solves? Where do we see that (hint: Isaiah 48:22)?
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Who is the servant? Why is it important to see the servant as national and individual?
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Which passages describe the servant? What do we learn?
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Jerusalem is described throughout these chapters. Why is she likened to a Mother? What is God going to do for Mother Zion?
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How does these chapters tell the story of salvation? What do you learn about God as a Savior?
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What is the central point of these five sections? How does that emphasize the message?
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How does Isaiah 52:13–53:12 fit in this story? What does the Suffering Servant do?
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What does reading Isaiah 53–54 together teach us? How does the sacrifice of the servant create a new covenant?
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How does the New Testament apply Isaiah 53 to Jesus? See Matthew 20:28; 26:28; Acts 8:26–40; 1 Peter 2:24–25; 3:18. Others?
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Where do we find good news in these chapters? What is most encouraging to you?
Sermon Introduction
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
These words in Isaiah 40:1 are some of the most striking in all of the Bible, as they touch off twenty-seven of the most hope-giving, gospel-promising, Christ-centered chapters in the Bible.
Indeed, in Isaiah 1–39, the prophet is tasked with bringing a word of judgment to Israel, a nation obstinate and rebellious. Isaiah 6 gives his commission and it includes preaching to a people who cannot see, hear, or believe.
In Isaiah 40, however, all of that changes. Isaiah is “recommissioned” and sent on a mission to bring the good news to the people of God exiled throughout the world. This time they will hear, as the message of the Suffering Servant initiates a new covenant and offers a new salvation. Beginning this Sunday, we will see in more full detail the promise of this coming servant, who is none other than the Son of God.
To prepare for our time in Isaiah 40–48, take time to read as much of these chapters as you can. On Sunday, we will hit the highlights of those nine chapters, especially as they relate to the greatness of God and the folly of idols. So pray for our time as we gather to worship the only true God, by way of the Servant who died in our place for sins.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 40 – 48
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Isaiah 40–48 marks a great difference in tone and content. Why is that? What is the historical and eschatological context of these chapters?
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In Isaiah 40, there is a remarkable description of God. What do we learn about him? How does this lead you to trust him more?
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In Isaiah 42, we are introduced to the Servant. Who is he? What do vv. 1–9 say? Where else is the servant described?
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What is the relationship between the Servant (an individual) and the Servant (the nation of Israel)?
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Isaiah 43 describes salvation in terms of the exodus. How so? And why does this “type” of salvation matter for our understanding of Christ. See Luke 9:31.
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Isaiah 44 is the center of this section. What is it about? Why does that matter?
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Where do we struggle with idol making today?
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Who is Cyrus (Isa 45:1)? And what role does he play in history and in Isaiah?
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What is the final condition of Babylon? How does this compare with Zion? (Take note of how this section begins and ends)
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What else do you learn about God? Salvation? Yourself? The coming of Christ?
In Isaiah, the middle of the book presents us with a series of question: Will you trust God when you are under threat? Will you turn to God when your life is in peril? Will you see God’s discipline as an act of love? And will you celebrate when you escape harm, but your children do not?
Truly, the book of Isaiah is not only one that foretells the coming of the messiah. It is also one that calls us to trust in the God who promised to send his Son as our messiah. In the events of Hezekiah’s life, which take center stage in Isaiah 36-39, we find an example of how one man trusted God and then failed to trust God. Indeed, Isaiah 36–39 is both a living parable for believers and a series of historical events that moves the story along in Isaiah’s long book.
This Sunday we will examine these four chapters to learn how to have faith, hope, and love in the midst of hard times. And we will see how the promises of a righteous king are momentarily visible in Hezekiah before they are not. Again, the whole book of Isaiah is moving towards the birth of Christ. And this Sunday, we will see how that is true and how the story of God’s salvation invites us to trust more deeply in the God who brought us salvation in Jesus.
To prepare for Sunday, please read these four chapters and pray that God would show himself to us as we come to him for all of our needs. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you this Lord’s Day.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 36 – 39
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Now that we have come to the middle of Isaiah, what have been some of the big take aways so far?
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In these historical chapters, what are some of the key events that have taken place? Why might these chapters not follow historical chronology?
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How do these chapters transition the book from first half of Isaiah to the second? (Hint: What countries are mentioned?)
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What do we learn about trusting God in Isaiah 36?
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What are the ways Satan tempts us to doubt God? Do these schemes ever change?
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What do we learn about prayer in Isaiah 37? How does Hezekiah’s prayer motivate you to pray?
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What do we learn about God’s love in Isaiah 38?
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When you pray for healing, how should you pray? Compare Isaiah 38 to 3 John 2.
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What is the problem in Isaiah 39? What does this teach us about Hezekiah?
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How do these chapters prepare us for the coming of Christ?
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What else do these chapters teach us about God? Man? Salvation?
Thanksgiving is a good reminder of how many good gifts God has given us and how many gifts we need. From the necessities of life to the manifold blessings of spiritual life, we are a needy people. Each day we need food, water, oxygen, sleep, shelter, transportation, and a host of other physical needs. Just the same, we need the Son to uphold the universe, the Spirit to give us personal grace, and the Father to ordain it all. Indeed, the more that we think about it the more foolish self-reliance looks. Nonetheless, self-reliance continues to threaten all that we have and all that we are.
On Sunday, we will come face to face with the way Israel relied on themselves and their political alliances. In Isaiah 28–35, God issues a warning for Israel to not seek refuge in Egypt. Instead, they must look to him in order to find strength.
Simple as this command is, they do not well receive or obey the command. So too, today. The command to trust and obey is not as easy of the song suggests (Trust and Obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey). Indeed, how often do we find ourselves trusting in other things, or invited to add levels of security to all that God promises us? Indeed, in a world where human plight and spiritual needs are manifold, this is common temptation. And in our study of Isaiah, we will see how our needs are met in the Lord and how the promises of God lead us to Christ and his daily grace.
To prepare for Sunday, take time read Isaiah 28–35. If time is short, be sure to read the centerpiece of this section, Isaiah 30:18–33. On Sunday, we will again over view this whole section and see how God warns of trusting other saviors, so that we can trust in him alone. Indeed, such trust in the Lord is how the Lord proves who his children are and who they are not. May the Lord continue to give us faith as we seek him, and may he pour out his grace on us as we gather Sunday.
As the Lord allows, I will look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 28 – 35
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As we come to the third section of Isaiah, are you starting to see some of the big themes of this book? What are they?
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You’ve read Isaiah, what has been most helpful or illuminating for you?
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In Isaiah 28–35, what are some of the key words or themes that hold this passage together? (Why do we read these chapters together?)
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Read Isaiah 30:18–33 again. What is the center message? How does that impact your reading of this section?
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What threat does Egypt pose for Israel? How does that translate today? Where are the places you are tempted put your faith?
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Except for Isaiah 28, every chapter ends with good news. What does this tell you about the message of God? What does this teach us about sharing the faith?
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Of the messages of hope, which is most encouraging? Why?
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How do these chapters relate to other parts of Scripture? For instance, compare 32:9–14 with 3:16–4:1, 32:15–20 with 11:1–5; 42:1–4; 61:1–4. How does these connection help you read Isaiah?
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In these chapters, what do you learn about God? God’s plan of salvation? Mankind’s condition? And the nature of faith?
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What else stands out from these chapters?
Has the Bible ever made you mad? Have you ever stopped reading the Bible because you couldn’t understand it? Are there parts of the Bible that you avoid because they are too difficult to comprehend? I have.
A number of years ago Isaiah 13–27 was one of those places. Or rather, it was somewhere in Isaiah 13-19. Reading those chapters, with their endless judgments against ancient foreign powers, I put the Bible away, because it made no sense. After all, what does Moab have to do with me?
Fast forward two decades, and I can say that these chapters are some of the most exhilarating chapters in the Bible, if only we take the time to read all of them. On Sunday, we will do just that. Or actually, we won’t read them all, but we will look at them all.
Isaiah 13–27 is a single unit, broken into three main sections, maybe four (13-19 / 20 / 21-23 + 24-27). On Sunday, we will look at each major section, to see the way that God in his perfect righteousness judges sin and saves sinners. This is the theme of the whole book, and it is the good news for the whole world.
Take time to read or listen to as much as you can of Isaiah 13–27 before Sunday. We will be moving quickly again, but I trust it will be an exhilarating ride. Let’s pray that God would continue to show us his mercy as we study the whole canon of scripture.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 13 – 27Have you read Isaiah 13–27 before? How have you read it – chapter by chapter, or as one total unit? How does reading strategy help us (mis)understand the Bible?What is the big picture of Isaiah 13–27? Water evidence is for the big picture?In Isaiah, salvation and judgment or two inseparable themes. Where do we see that in these chapters?There are two sets of five oracles, Isaiah 13–19 and Isaiah 21–23. What is similar about these lists? What is different?What is the purpose of Isaiah 20? What do we learn from this chapter that applies today? Or doesn’t apply!Isaiah 24–27 is filled with good news. What did those chapters teach you about your salvation? What is personally encouraging?What was the most difficult thing to understand in these chapters? What would you like to look at more in the future?What have you learned about God in this series so far? What have you learned about man? Salvation? Jesus Christ?
This Sunday we begin our new Advent series, The Seed of the Woman: The Story of Isaiah’s Immanuel. If you haven’t begun the reading plan, it’s not too late. You can find an explanation and a daily reading schedule here. Additionally, you can find a host of resources on my blog to help you get the most of Isaiah.
Yet before jumping to Isaiah, you might be asking, Why Isaiah? The answer is simple: Isaiah is the Fifth Gospel which prepares the way for the good news of Jesus Christ. Indeed, long before Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, the Holy Spirit inspired Isaiah to pen one of the most glorious depictions of the coming Christ. And for the next six weeks, we are going to follow Isaiah’s message until we come to celebrate the birth of Christ.
This Sunday we will begin that journey as we look at Isaiah 1–12. To help you see what is in the passage, you may find this blog helpful. In the weeks ahead, it is my hope to keep providing some resources as we read Isaiah together. We will link to those in upcoming Friday emails.
As for this Sunday, please pray for our time. May God give us a fresh sense of his grace and glory as we gather together. In preparation, take a look (or a listen) at Isaiah 1–12. It will help you as we take a look at these introductory chapters. On Sunday, I won’t read everything in these chapters. Instead, like a tour guide, I will show the main points and draw some connections to Christ and ourselves. So, the more you read ahead, the more you will catch the turns in Isaiah’s Gospel.
That is our plan. And Lord willing, I will see you on Sunday as we journey together from the beginning of Isaiah to the one who existed before the beginning and yet who entered in time, when he was born in Bethlehem.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 1 – 12
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When you think of Isaiah what comes to mind? What verses, truths, or questions?
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What’s the difference between knowing verses from Isaiah and knowing the message of Isaiah?
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Why does knowing the message of Isaiah, and not just parts or portions of the book, matter?
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What’s the first step in discerning the message of Isaiah? How can you learn the structure of a book?
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What is the basic arrangement of Isaiah? How do the first 12 chapters help find the book’s message?
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When is Isaiah written (1:1)? What is going on in Israel / Judah at that time? What is the role of a prophet in Israel?
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Where does the prophesy begin (1:2–20)? What are the problems in Israel?
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What is the solution to the problem? What is Isaiah’s role?
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Where do we find hope in Isaiah 1–12? How do the visions of glory (2:1–5; 4:2–6) fit together with the promise of a coming messiah (7:14; 9:6-7; 11:1-5)?
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How does the theme of offspring hold the chapters together (see 6:13; 7:14; 9:6–7; 11:1-5)?
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What do we learn about God and his plan of salvation?
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How does this approach to Isaiah encourage or challenge you in reading Isaiah and the rest of Scripture?
This week we will continue in the Gospel of John, and we will look at Jesus’ opening words of instruction as he begins to teach his disciples in the Upper Room.
In this short section (John 13:31-35), we will consider the glory of Jesus, his impending departure, and the new commandment he gives to his disciples. I invite you to read the text in advance, and pray that the Lord would give us eyes to understand how we have been loved by Jesus, and how we then are to go and love one another.
With many of our sisters away at OBC’s Women’s Retreat, here are a few things to note for this Saturday and Sunday:
The Men’s Breakfast has been moved to Sat, Nov 12. There will be no Sunday School this Sunday, but we will gather for worship at 10:00am as usual. On an unrelated note, please remember to change your clocks and “fall back” one hour as Daylight Savings Time ends this Saturday.
I look forward to gathering with you to worship the Lord this Sunday!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Discussion & Response Questions for John 13:31-35 What is the context of this teaching by Jesus? What is the glory of God? How would you explain the glory of the Son of Man? How does Jesus glorify the Father, and how will he be glorified by the Father? Where is the command to love found in the Bible? What is new and unique about this command by Jesus? How have you seen this command distorted? Why is it essential that the Scripture (and not our cultural context) gives us our definitions? How would you describe the love of Jesus? What does this love look like in the church as we rightly love one another? What is the effect of the church loving one another rightly? How might you grow in knowing the love of Christ? How do you think you might grow in loving your church family?
Perhaps you have seen the meme of the man falling down the up-escalator. If not, you are missing a powerful illustration of Christian sanctification.
While we may falter, fall, and fail, Jesus never does. And in John 13 this week, we will see how Jesus lifts up Peter amidst a battery of wrong answers. At the same time, we will see what Jesus says to Judas as he exposes his darkness.
In this entry into the last part of John’s Gospel, Jesus is doing more than just removing dirt from miry feet. Though he is doing that. He is giving a parable of his coming cross and a living picture of the life he wants his followers to live.
This Sunday we will look at how Jesus washes his disciples' feet, and more than that we will see the heart of Jesus to love his own. To prepare for that good news, take time to read the chapter in its entirety. As you read, please pray that God would secure us in his love and in the confidence that he gives us more than an example to follow. He is the King who loves us and makes us clean, one step at a time.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 13:1-30 What sort of love does Jesus have for his own? Why does Jesus wash his disciples’ feet? What does this event teach us about Jesus? What does this reveal? Do you wash feet? How should we move from the first century to today? What does humble service in obedience to Christ look like? Do you serve without receiving the love of God first? Why is it important to receive love before giving service? How does Judas fit into this narrative? Does Jesus wash Judas’ feet? What is different about Judas? How does the time of day relate to the condition of Judas (v. 30)? How is Jesus laying the groundwork for future faith and understanding with his disciples? What do we learn about God’s love? Our faith? Christ’s cross? What does this passage call you to do? (Or not do?)
When writing a paper, the textbooks advise that you should say what you are going to say, say it, and then say what you said.
If that’s good writing, then John is in full agreement. In his Gospel, he begins in John 1:1-18 with an introduction that introduces to Jesus. For the last twelve chapters, we have seen have he has been saying about Jesus (1:19–12:36), and now as he closes this first half of his Gospel, he is going to summarize his arguments and repeat what he’s said (John 12:37–50).
Indeed, in John’s Gospel we have two parts. John 1–12 is called the Book of Signs. And John 13–21 is the Book of Glory. And this Sunday we come to the end of the first book, which will prepare the way for his second. Importantly, this concluding section rehearses all that Jesus has said in John 1–12 and it calls us to faith, even as it explains why many remain in unbelief.
In preparation for Sunday, take time to read John 12 and then pray that God would have mercy on us and give us faith.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and worshiping our Great King with you.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 12:37–50 As we look at the signs of Jesus throughout the Gospel of John, some believe, and others do not believe. What commentary does John offer to explain why many do not believe? Consider how Isaiah 53:1 is used in John 12, and also in Romans 10. Why are they unable to believe? (v. 39) Consider also John’s use of Isaiah 6:10 in verse 40. What does John 12:41 reveal about Isaiah 6? What does private/unconfessed faith reveal about one’s loves? (vv. 41-43) What does it look like to publicly confess faith today? What does Jesus’ teaching in verses 44-50 reveal about his relationship with the Father and his mission in the incarnation? How is the commandment of the Father (vv. 49-50) eternal life? How ought we to respond to these truths?
Prophet. Priest. King.
Somewhere in the 1990s, I was introduced to Christ’s “triple office.” Providentially, it was not a pastor or a theologian (John Calvin made much of Christ’s triple office) who told me that Christ was and is a prophet, priest, and king. Rather, it was by a Christian rock band, whose ministry continues today. That band was and is The Smalltown Poets.
In their song, by the same title, they lamented the fact that the presidents and potentates of this world gave them little interest. As with most of us, the children of God do not text with tycoons or golf with governors. But what we lack with the world, we recover in the Word Incarnate. As the Smalltown Poets sang, “My closet's a shrine to an old friend of mine, here I talk all the time with a prophet priest.” And again, when “misperceived by some head of state, hey, that’s great.” Why?
'Cause I talk to a prophet who tells me the truth And I dine with a king at my home in Duluth [GA] Better yet I'm in touch with a much needed friend Who hears my confessions and pardons my sin.
Indeed, what a wonderful comfort that Christ is our prophet, priest, and king. And this Sunday, we will see Jesus in all of his prophetic, priestly, and royal glory.
In John 12:12–36, Jesus comes to Jerusalem as a king, but instead of reigning, he prophesies that he will offer the final sacrifice. Marvelously, he is the long expected prophet, priest, and king.
This Sunday, we will consider each of those offices and how Jesus fulfills them all.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 12. Pray that God would magnify Christ in our our midst, and that as he is lifted up, we would be drawn to him.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and worshiping our prophet, priest, and king.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 12:12 – 36 Are you familiar with Christ’s triple office — prophet, priest, and king? How does this triple office help us know Christ? Where do we see these attributes in the Bible? In John? In John 12? Why is the structure of John 12:12–36 hard to find? Why should we read these verses together? What stands out in John 12:12–19? What is the festival context for Jesus’ “triumphal entry” on Palm Sunday? How is the Old Testament being used in this event? What is significant about the crowd’s use of Psalm 118? What are the implications of Zechariah 9:9’s fulfillment? How do the Pharisees characterize the situation (v. 19)? How does this relate to the previous chapter? What is the main point of John 12:20–36? How does the impending death of Christ reform our understanding of kingship? What does Jesus say about his death? What do we learn about the cross in these verses? What truths do we observe about Christ from this text? How ought we to respond to these truths?
Sermon Introduction
Do you ever feel like you are outnumbered? Like those who are against Christ are more than those who are for Christ? Or that those who are for Christ are few and far between?
Perhaps it feels that way, looks that way, and is that way on the narrow path of life. But when it is all said and done, and the redeemed of the Lord are gathered around God’s eternal throne, we have great reason to believe that those who are in Christ will outnumber those who are not. And what is that reason?
Well, among other Scriptures, John 11:45–12:11 tells us that many (11:45), many (11:55), many (12:11) were going away and believing in Jesus. Yes, these verses speak only of the circumstances in and around Jerusalem in the days before Christ was arrested and crucified. But as we will see on Sunday, these verses tell us more than just what happened in the weeks leading up to Christ’s death. Indeed, they show how God in Christ is separating the faithful from the foolish and proving the supremacy of Christ over all things.
On Sunday, we will see again who Jesus is and what it means to believe on him. In preparation, take time to read John 11–12. You may also find help by reading Ezekiel 37 and Isaiah 53. As you read, please pray that God would give us confidence in his gospel, his grace, and his goodness. God will bring to faith all those whom the Father gave the Son before the foundation of the world. And gloriously, this multitude will be beyond counting—unless you are the infinite God.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 11:45 – 12:11 What are the consequences of Lazarus’ resurrection? How is Jesus accomplishing his purposes? What does Caiaphas unwittingly prophesy? How does John describe what Jesus will accomplish? (vv. 49-52) Consider Mary’s anointing of Jesus’ feet. What is the value of it? Is anything wasted on Jesus? Why or why not? Consider Judas’ guise of generosity toward the poor, and his dishonesty. Why reveal this here? How would you compare and contrast Mary and Judas? How do you weigh the value of Christ? Is Jesus’ response to Judas related to his false motives, or something else? What is the basis of his defense for Mary? What does this text teach us about God’s purposes? How ought we to respond to these truths?
Sermon Introduction
John’s Gospel is written so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. And in John’s Gospel there are many ways we see witnesses testifying to Christ and followers of Jesus growing in faith. In fact, John 11, which we will look at Sunday, is one of the key places where believers are pressed to believe and to believe more deeply.
Such is the case for all of us. The faith that God has given us for today will not carry us tomorrow or for the next ten years. Rather, we need our faith to grow. And wonderfully, this is what God does. He who gives us faith in the new birth also gives us daily grace to grow our faith. And this Sunday we will see how faith is grown in the lives of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, so that we may also see how faith grows in our lives too.
To prepare for Sunday, please read John 11. On Sunday, we will consider the rest of the chapter and how the resurrection of Lazarus points to the resurrection of Christ and to our resurrection in Christ. Please pray for the Word to go forward on Sunday and to give us fresh faith. Indeed, we are desperate for God to grant faith, but we are also confident that God delights to give faith.
So with that confidence, let us please pray for God to grow our faith as we gather on the Lord’s Day.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 11:17 – 54 Consider Martha’s conversation with Jesus. What is Martha’s initial understanding of the resurrection? Consider Jesus’ “I am” statement in vv. 25-26. What does this reveal about Jesus? In what different senses is Jesus speaking about life and death? As Jesus is working to bring about faith (v. 15), and asking about faith (v. 26), how might this reframe your understanding of illness and death? Consider Martha’s confession in verse 27. What does this reveal about her faith? What repetitions do you see in this narrative? What is being emphasized? Why does Jesus pray before raising Lazarus? What are the consequences of Lazarus’ resurrection? How should Caiaphas’ “prophecy” be understood? What does this text teach us about God’s purposes? How ought we to respond to these truths?
This Sunday we return to the book of John. After a summer break in the Psalms, we will pick up in John 11.
When we left off in John 10, we saw that Jesus’s ministry of the Word resulted in some who received Christ by faith and others who rejected Christ in anger. As we begin John again, we will see Jesus’s loving care for those who believed. Strikingly, Jesus's followers need their faith strengthened, stretched, and supported. Like all of us, the faith that begins to follow Christ is not sufficient to keep us to the end. But thanks be to God, the resurrection power of Christ is what will grow and guard our faith.
This Sunday we will see how God’s love supplies and amplifies our faith. To prepare, take time to read John 11. Pray that God would use this word to encourage and build up the saints. This is what God is doing in our world today—granting and growing the faith of the people he loves. May we be on the lookout for his good works and join him in those works as his Spirit leads.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday, as the Lord allows.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 11:1-27 How are God’s purposes introduced in the beginning of this narrative (vv. 1-4)? How should one understand the purposes of God when it comes to the experience of illness? Notice the repeated emphasis on the love of Jesus (v. 3, v. 5). Why do you think this is repeated? Consider Jesus’ gladness at his absence (v. 15). What is the intent behind his absence, and Lazarus’ death? Consider Martha’s conversation with Jesus. What is Martha’s initial understanding of the resurrection? Consider Jesus’ “I am” statement in vv. 25-26. What does this reveal about Jesus? In what different senses is Jesus speaking about life and death? (vv. 25-26) As Jesus is working to bring about faith (v. 15), and asking about faith (v. 26), how might this reframe your understanding of illness and death? Consider Martha’s confession in verse 27. What does this reveal about her faith? What does this text teach us about God’s purposes? What does this text reveal about who Jesus is? How ought we to respond to these truths?
In our late summer series on the Psalms, we’ve saved the hardest psalm for last. Or at least, this Sunday we come to two verses (Psalm 137:8–9), when taken by themselves, that are likely to be a stumbling block for those looking to question the Bible. Indeed, how can we say that someone is blessed for dashing children against the rocks? Do we not stand up against those seeking do that very thing in abortion mills all over the country?
These are hard questions. And Psalm 137 is a hard psalm. But hard psalms have their purpose. Because we live in a hard world, we need hard words—words that will steel our faith, so that Satan does not steal our hope.
On Sunday, we will be gathering on the 21st Anniversary of 9/11—a day indelibly etched in our memory banks. Burning towers, smoking buildings, falling bodies, and courageous firefighters are just some of the images that capture the horror of that day. When Islamic terrorists turned four airplanes into human-guided missiles they incarnated evil in ways that are not suitable television.
Yet, such evil is exactly what prompted the words of Psalm 137. And as long as we live in a world where evil can terrorize, then we need to come to passages like Psalm 137 with open hearts willing to listen and learn. Indeed, unless we learn how this Psalm works, we may not be prepared to respond in faith when evil strikes our country, our church, or our children.
So, with sober awareness of the pain caused by September 11 and a host of other evils, let us pray that God might use this Psalm in the way his Spirit intends. We need strong words of comfort when evil breaks, and I believe that is why Psalm 137 is in the Bible. Please pray for our time on Sunday, and that God’s Spirit might apply this Psalm to the areas of pain in our life caused by untold evil.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: Psalm 137 What was your response to the lament and imprecations of Psalm 137? Is your response consistent with what you believe about Scripture? While we may feel the pressure to immediately engage with verse 9, let’s consider the context of the Psalm first: What is the historical context? What did Edom and Babylon do to Israel? What is the literary shape of the psalm? How is it organized? How does the Psalmist speak of God? What kind of “blessing” is being pronounced upon those who destroy Babylon? What are the different interpretive views of this? Which interpretation do you find most persuasive, and why? Looking at the griefs and joys of the psalmist, do these resonate with you? Why or why not? As New Covenant saints, how should we read this Psalm? How should we consider these things through the lens of the New Covenant and the work of Christ? As New Covenant saints, do you consider yourself to be in exile? Why or why not? What does the Scripture teach about our status? How should we respond to this Psalm today?
Dear Church Family,
“Praise the Lord!” “God is good!” We might hear and even make these statements often. They’re good sentiments, but what do they mean? True praise needs content. We should have a zeal for God, but that zeal must be “according to knowledge.” (see Romans 10:2)
Psalm 136 calls us to praise God, but this praise has content. In every verse, the author masterfully calls us to praise as he calls our attention to the works of God. In a sweeping move from creation to the life of the Psalmist, we see the works of a loving, faithful God who acts on behalf of His people. The Psalmist knows he has ample reason to praise God, and he calls us not only to praise God but to know why we’re praising Him.
Bruce Forsee
Discussion & Response Questions: Psalm 136 What is significant about the shape of Psalm 136? Why repeatedly echo “for his steadfast love endures forever” like this? How should we understand “steadfast love” or hesed? As you read through Psalm 136, would you usually understand what’s mentioned in each line from vv. 4-25 as an expression of God’s steadfast love? As you look at the works of God in vv. 4-25, are these things for which you think of giving thanks? Why or why not? What is it that tempts you to doubt the love of God, or tempts you to be thankless? On this side of the cross, and as members of the New Covenant, how should we consider Psalm 136? Consider the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55). What themes from Psalm 136 does Mary reflect in her song and why? How ought we to respond to this text? How does this Psalm direct its audience? How did God encourage you through His Word as you listened to or thought about the sermon? What did God convict you about? Are there truths that came out in the sermon that would help you in your walk with God?
It happens all too often.
Someone tells us that they'll do something, and for whatever reason -- good or bad -- they never seem to follow through. And it's not only politicians who pepper their speech with empty words. All too often our loved ones, friends, and community are found lacking in this.
But as we'll see in Psalm 138 this Sunday, we serve a God who has done what he said, is doing what he said, and will do what he said. In a time where most of us are half doing things, we can take comfort with our whole heart in a God who fully does what he says. Join us this Lord's Day for worship as we look at Psalm 138.
Pastor Jared
Discussion & Response Questions: Psalm 138 What reasons does David give for praising God? What is the root of David’s thanksgiving? What does this Psalm teach about God’s Word? Notice how David moves back and forth between prayer to God, and proclamation of truths about God. Why do you think he is doing this? How does David describe his confidence in the Lord? What is the basis of his confidence? What is the basis of your confidence in the Lord? Notice how David moves from himself (vv. 1-3), to kings (vv. 4-6), and back to himself (vv. 7-8). What is David doing? Consider David’s petition at the end (v. 8). Why do you think the Psalm ends like this? What attributes of God does David emphasize? How should we respond to this Psalm?
Dear OBC Family,
This Sunday we will continue in our summer in the Psalms, and we will turn to David’s meditation on the omnipresence and omniscience of God in Psalm 139.
As David beheld God, he confessed that “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.” It is right that as we behold God, we are awed by His greatness and sense our smallness. While we are unable to fully comprehend our wonderfully infinite God, it is our joy to behold Him in Scripture.
I invite you to read Psalm 139 in advance of Sunday, and pray that the Lord would give us grace to know Him more. I look forward to gathering together with you to worship our great God!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions: Psalm 139 Notice how David characterizes his pursuit of knowing God (v. 6). How should we respond to this? How does this Psalm describe the knowledge and presence of God? As we meditate on the absolute knowledge and immensity of God in Psalm 139, how should we understand language like God “searching” or having hands and eyes? How ought we to we understand language of being near to or far from God? Does David want to escape from God’s presence? Why or why not? As we look at how God has formed life in the womb, so also he has formed our days. How ought we to respond to this? After this meditation on God (vv. 1-18), how should one understand David’s response (vv. 19-24)? How should we be zealous for God? When is God’s presence and knowledge a threat, and when is it a comfort? What makes the difference? After the fall of mankind in Genesis 3, how is it possible one to enjoy God’s all-encompassing knowledge and presence? What does it look like to apply the doctrines of God’s omniscience and omnipresence? What does it look like to live life Coram Deo, that is, before the face of God?
Dear OBC Family,
Why do we worship God? As we turn to the Psalms for the next several weeks, I invite you to read Psalm 135 in advance for Sunday worship, and consider the psalmist’s argument as he calls us to worship.
As we look to Psalm 135, we will consider the absolute sovereignty of God who does whatever He pleases, why this is grounds for our comfort and hope, and why this should provoke us all the more to praise Him.
I look forward to gathering with you this Lord’s Day to worship our Great God.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions: Psalm 135 How is this Psalm organized? What reasons for praising God does the Psalmist provide? What does it mean to say that “God is absolute”? If someone says that “God can do anything,” how would you qualify that statement? How ought God’s people to respond to the absoluteness of God? As we look at this text, what is God pleased to do? How do you see God’s workings recounted in these verses? How does Psalm 135 serve as a warning against idolatry? What repetition do you see in the Psalm? What is the psalmist emphasizing? To what New Covenant realities do these shadows point? How ought we to respond to this text?
This Sunday we pause our study of John to celebrate a special moment in the life of OBC.
As 1 Peter 5, 1 Timothy 3, and Titus 1 indicate, elders/overseers/pastors (three terms for the same office) play a crucial role in the life of the church. This is why multiple books in the Bible give elder qualifications—so that local churches can properly recognize and install biblical elders.
In our case, OBC has enjoyed the service of our seven current elders for the last seven years. For some of these elders, the service goes back much longer. But since Pastor David came to OBC in 2015, we have not recognized or added a new elder.
This Sunday, by God’s grace, that will change, as we recognize and install Sean Oxford to the role of elder at OBC. For those who know Sean, you know he has already been ‘shepherding.’ In our children’s ministry and in many other aspects of OBC life, Sean has demonstrated the qualities of overseer, and in so doing he has blessed our church and built up the saints.
This is what elders do. They equip the saints for the work of service (Eph. 4:12), they oversee the flock (1 Pet. 5:1–4), and they multiply ministry (Eph. 4:11–16). And this Sunday we will consider both the role that elders play in the life of the church and the way that healthy churches recognize and install elders. To do that we will look at Titus 1:5–9.
In these five verses we find qualifications for elders. Yet, these verses are not for elders only, but for the whole church. As we will see, churches must know the qualifications of an elder, because local churches play the role of appointing elders to service. Moreover, as elders playing the role of modeling the faith, local churches need godly examples of faith. To that end, we will consider the wisdom and goodness of God in having local church appoint elders.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Titus 1–3. Pray for our service and for Sean as he prepares to receive the call to be an elder at OBC. We, the elders, are thankful to God for him and for all the faithful servants of Christ who call OBC their home. God has been exceedingly good to our church. And on Sunday we look forward to giving him praise and receiving from him the gift of this elder.
In prayer for Sunday, The Elders of OBC
Discussion & Response Questions: Titus 1:5-9 In reading Titus 1:5-9, what reasons are given for these elder qualifications? Why are these qualities prerequisite for being appointed to the office of elder, and essential for those who serve as elders? To what end do these character qualifications serve? What happens to a congregation when these qualities are absent? How are elders made and unmade? Are these character qualities that should be unique to elders? Should members seek these qualities? Why or why not? What is it that sets an elder apart from the rest of the congregation? What is the relationship between the titles of pastor, elder, and overseer? What are an elder’s duties to the congregation? What does the Bible and our Statement of Faith teach? What are the congregation’s duties to the elders? How does the wisdom of God’s design for the church serve the ministry of the gospel? How ought we to respond to these truths?
On Sunday we will finish John 10 as we come to a climactic moment in John’s Gospel, where Jesus enters the temple once more only to find that all the sheep are gone.
Last week, we discovered that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. And as the Good Shepherd he is calling his sheep to follow him. This week, we will see that when he enters Solomon’s Colonnade that he is confronted by a group of unbelievers challenging his words and his works.
Unlike John 5 where Jesus entered the Colonnade to bring salvation to the invalid, now he finds only opponents who seek to stone him and then arrest him. Once more, then, the themes of salvation and judgment run through this chapter. And importantly they show us what it means to be a sheep and what it means that Jesus is the Son of God.
On Sunday we will look at John 10:22–42, as we finish up this section of John. As you have time, read John 10 again, as well as Ezekiel 8–10 and Psalm 82. These two Old Testament passages give some context for John 10 and will help understand and apply this important chapter.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and worshiping the King who walks among his sheep.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 10:22-42
- John 10:22 begins a new “season.” But how does this passage relate to John 8:12–10:21?
- What is the Feast of Dedication (v. 22)? What difference does that timing make?
- Does the location of this conversation matter?
- What have you learned in John about place and time? How does that apply today? (Hint: All Scripture is fulfilled in Christ).
- When Jesus is asked to speak plainly (v. 24), what does he say? Why doesn’t he do more to explain himself?
- What do we learn about sheep (John 10:27–29)?
- What does the salvation of the sheep reveal about God?
- Jesus’s final words cite Psalm 82:6. What does this Psalm say? How does it help us read John 10?
- What does John 10 teach us about salvation? Who is saved? How are they saved? Who has ears to hear?
- How does John 10 motivate us to evangelism?
- Where do the people believe (see v. 42)? Why does this location matter?
- What other observations or questions do you have from John 10?
Few truths about Christ are as precious as this: Jesus is the Good Shepherd.
This Sunday we will dig into the passage where Jesus makes this glorious announcement. In John 10:1–21, we will learn the context of this statement, what it meant to the original hearers, and what it means to us.
Indeed, in a world filled with wolves, snakes, and goats, we need a true shepherd to lead us. And more than that, we need a shepherd who will lay down his life for us. Many are the hired hands that serve themselves in the church, in the state, and in the world. But Christ is better than all others. He proves his status as being a good shepherd by laying down his life for his sheep. And in the same moment, he proves his divine nature, by laying down his life and taking it back up again. As we will discover, Jesus was not merely killed by others on the cross. He laid his life down as a true sacrifice. And as a true priest, he took it back up again.
These are just a few of the rich truths we will see in John 10 this week. To prepare for Sunday take time to read John 10. You can also read Ezekiel 34 and this blog post. Pray that God would grant us faith to trust Christ as our good shepherd and that he would continue to show himself faithful to his sheep.
As the Lord allows, I will see you on Sunday morning.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 10:1-21 What does this text reveal about the person and work of Jesus as the Good Shepherd? What are the characteristics of Jesus’ sheep? How does the second explanation (vv. 7-18) clarify the first (vv. 1-5)? Notice how this moves the crowd from confusion to division. What repetition and parallels do you see in this text? What is the proper emphasis of this text? (Is it “abundant life”?) Why or why not? How might the setting of the first century Temple and Jesus’ opponents shape our understanding of what Jesus is saying? What contrasts do you see between Jesus and the hired hand? What does this reveal about the authority of Jesus, and how should it inform our understanding of the cross and resurrection? How ought we to respond to these truths?
In the Bible, we find a series of ironic reversals that move the story of salvation from the Garden of Eden to the Garden of Gethsemane to the Garden City of Zion.
For instance, when Haman was hung on his own gallows, on the very day when that enemy of God sought to destroy the Jews, there entered the story, a great and ironic reversal (see the Book of Esther). And this is but one instance of a last second, game-winning touchdown. Come from behind wins and victories over giants becomes a common feature of God’s salvation. Accordingly, God’s people begin to trust that God will bring light in moments of darkness. And more, God delights to make the dark darker before bringing such moments of light-giving salvation.
So great is this pattern of salvation, that Mary could praise God for his promise to raise up the humble and knock down the proud, even as she faced a life of hardship (see Luke 1:46–56). Steeped in the Old Testament, the mother of Jesus prayed to God like Hannah (1 Samuel 2), and David (Psalm 18), and prophets (see e.g., Isaiah 60). And not surprisingly, this pattern of ironic reversals culminates in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Killed at the hands of wicked men, it appeared as though all hope was lost. Holy Saturday was a dark day. But on the third day, Jesus rose from the grave, proving that the dark is not dark to God (Ps. 139:1–6).
Indeed, the promise of light shining in the dark is a theme that runs through John’s Gospel and it is one that comes to a high point in John 9. Following the pattern of ironic reversals, we will see how the man born in darkness (i.e., born blind) is brought to the light. Meanwhile, those who lit the torches in the temple and proclaimed to have the light, would be consigned to darkness. And why the difference? Well, that is what John 9 will reveal.
As we continue our study of John this Sunday, we will see again that Jesus is the light of the world. And more, we will see that his light is what resets the world. To those who think they have power and authority to rule by their own wisdom, he withdraws his light. But to those who walk in darkness crying out for light, he delights to come and save. This is the great reversal that stands at the center of the world. And this Sunday, we will see what Christ’s light has to say to us, in a world seeking salvation by a Great Reset.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 9. To get a sense of the chapter, you may find this outline helpful. Pray that God would shine his light in our hearts and that we would hear his voice and follow him. As the Lord allows, I will look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 9 How does this passage fit in the flow of John 7–9? Notice the repetition of John 8:12, “I am the light of the world,” in John 9:5. Does it matter that John 9 appears to be continuing from the last day of the Feast of Booths? Why or why not? What is the disciples' understanding of sin and suffering? How does Jesus correct his disciples’ misunderstanding of suffering? What explanation does this narrative provide for the purpose of this man’s suffering? How does this passage address the prosperity gospel claims of illness always being a result of sin, and healing as a result of faith? How do the responses to the man’s healing reflect Jesus as the Light of the World? What do we learn about the man, as he is questioned? What does this teach about being a true disciple? How do the leaders of Jerusalem respond to this healing? In what ways are we tempted to respond like them? In John 9:34, the man is cast out of the temple. How does this relate to his previous condition? To his likeness to Christ? To the suffering followers of Christ will face? Cf. John 6:37. How does Jesus minister to the man cast out from the temple? How might Jesus’s identity as the True Temple comfort this man, and us when we are “cancelled”? How does the chapter end? Why does this final note of judgment matter for the book of John? What else does John 9 say about God? Christ? Salvation? The World? The Church?
On Sunday, we will finish John 8, as the four-part trial of Jesus concludes in verses 48–59.
In review of the earlier proceedings, the first stage of the trial initiated a legal debate about Jesus’s claim to be the light of the world (8:12–20). This was followed by a second debate about the departure of that light and the coming of Christ’s cross (8:21–30). After this, Jesus confronted the false faith of his opponents (8:31–47), and now in the last section of the chapter, Jesus will be questioned again about his true identity (8:48–59).
This last section wraps up the whole chapter and shows how trials reveal the character of those involved. In Jesus’s case, we will see that he is not just the messiah, but God the Son eternal. And in his light, we will see more clearly the darkness of those who oppose him. Indeed, in John 8 the contrast between light and darkness is pronounced. And it helps us to discern the light and darkness around us and in our own hearts.
To prepare for Sunday, therefore, take time to read John 8. You may also find this blogpost about John 8 and this short YouTube mediation from N. D. Wilson helpful as you prepare for Sunday. Finally, pray that God would continue to shine his light upon us. We are a people immersed in darkness, within and without, and we need God’s gracious light.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday, as the Lord allows, and to worshiping the One who died and rose again to give us his eternal life and light.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 8:48 - 59 What is this discussion about between Jesus and the Jews? What does it mean that “if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death”? How are Abraham and the prophets’ deaths used as evidence against Jesus? How does Jesus counter this? How does Abraham see Jesus’ day (v. 56)? What does Jesus’ teaching reveal about the Father and Son? How are the Jews incorrect in their understanding of Abraham as their father, and God as their father? What does the shift from their “belief” (v. 31) to their words and actions in vv. 48-59 reveal about the crowd? What do we learn about Jesus in this trial? What do we learn about ourselves? In this discussion, there are many responses to Jesus. What are the responses that you observe? How ought we to respond to Jesus?
In the context of a court case, God’s children and God’s enemies debate liberty, the source of life, and their implications for living.
This week in America, this description well-fits the much prayed for decision to overturn Roe v Wade. For that decision, we give thanks to God and we consider now, what further steps can be taken to protect life in our county, our state, and our country.
At the same time, this description of a courtroom debate over liberty fits the debate between God’s Son and the children of Satan who oppose his life-giving message. In John 8, Jesus sifts the “believers” to find out who they really are. Are they children of God? Or are they children of the devil?
Indeed, going back to the beginning, there has been a cosmic battle between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent. And in John 8:31–47 Jesus gives the definitive explanation of this reality. That is to say, he will tell us how to know if we are children of God or not.
Even more, Jesus words in John 8 will give us light to understand the darkness around us. When advocates of abortion threaten death and destruction to those who are standing for life, we need to know that something more than a courtroom decision is prompting such rage. There are spiritual forces at work. The devil and his lies are animating such hostility. And this Sunday, we will see from Scripture why this is and what Jesus says about it.
Today, let us pray for the peace of our nation, the protection of churches and pregnancy care centers who have been threatened, and let us come to Sunday expectant that the words of Christ will give us the life and liberty we need to know how to walk in a world filled with violence.
Jesus says to his true disciples, “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” This is the life and liberty which God promises his people. And we need to pray that his infallible promise will continue to uphold his church, no matter what happens in the world around us.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday, as we worship Christ and learn from him.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 8:31 - 47 When Jesus speaks about freedom and slavery, he is speaking on the last day of the Feast of Booths, which follows the Day of Atonement, which kicks off the year of Jubilee? How do those OT festivals inform Jesus’s words? How does Jesus speak about and contrast freedom and slavery? What is the truth that sets one free? How does one receive this freedom? What is the relationship between identity and one’s actions? God is Father, Abraham is a father, and the devil is a father. How are these contrasted in this discussion? What does this reveal about the world, the church, and the children whom God gives us? What does Jesus teach about his relationship to the Father? How should this discussion impact our self-understanding? What do we observe about who Jesus is? How ought we to respond to this text?
During the Feast of Booths, the final festival on the Levitical calendar (see Lev. 23), there were two ceremonies. The first was as water pouring ceremony where waters were poured out from the temple and allowed to flow down hill. The second was a court lighting ceremony, where one of the temple precincts was lit up all night.
In John 7, we saw how Jesus spoke on the last day of the festival and decreed that the Spirit he would send would fulfill the water pouring ceremony. Now, still on the last day of the festival, Jesus addresses the Pharisees and he says that he is the light of the world. This too matches the Feast of Booths and sets up a lengthy discussion about judgment, sin, and salvation.
On Sunday, we will dig into this debate and with the light of Zechariah 14, we will see how Jesus, as the long awaited king, has come to bring light to the world. But instead of defining light however we choose, we will see that this light has a particular design—namely, judgment and salvation.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Zechariah 14 and John 8. Remember, John 8:12 is best understood as coming immediately after John 7:52, which puts these two declarations about water (John 7:37-39) and light (John 8:12; cf. John 9:5) on the same day. As we will see, this is not accidental and it helps know more of Christ and how his light give us light for life, decision-making, and rendering judgment about matters that require discernment.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday, when we will also begin two new Sunday School classes—one on parenting (in the sanctuary) and another on engaging culture (downstairs in Room 4).
For His Glory and your joy in Jesus, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 8:12 - 30 1. How well do you do in making judgments? Why is it important that we have a perfect judge? 2. How does John 8:12 (“I am the light of the world”) relate to the theme of judgment that fills John 8:12–30? 3. How does the Feast of Booths provide a helpful background for John 8? 4. What were the Jews looking for, expecting, hoping for when they celebrated the festival with lights? See Zechariah 14 (esp. vv. 6–9). 5. How does Jesus bring light? What does his light do? 6. In what ways does John 8:12–8:30 continue the courtroom motif in John’s Gospel? 7. How does Jesus bear witness about himself? Why does it matter that there are two witnesses (v. 17)? 8. How does this announcement of his death (vv. 21, 28) relate to his kingship? 9. How does that light help us make decisions and judgments today? 10. How can you walk in Christ’s light? What will walking in that light produce?
Reading the Bible can be difficult. It is even more difficult when our English translations say something like this: The earliest manuscripts do not include John 7:53–8:11.
Have you ever noticed this editorial remark? Or given thought to what it means? Have you read what the Preface to the Bible says about this kind of thing? Or noticed other places in the Bible where manuscript questions arise?
On Sunday, we will consider this passage, its absence in earlier manuscripts, and its presence in our Bibles. In our time, we will learn a little of how we got the Bible, how we can have confidence in the Bibles we hold, and what this passage in particular illustrates about Jesus Christ. To be sure, Sunday will require an extra shot of caffeine to understand some of the background information to our Bibles, something called textual criticism, but it will help us all know more about God’s word and how God brought us his Word.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 7–8, and if you have time, I would encourage you to read one or many of these articles on John 7:53–8:11 Timothy Miller, an article outlining different approaches to John 7:53–8:11 Daniel Wallace, “My Favorite Passage Not in the Bible" John Piper, a sermon John 7:53–8:11 Pastor David, a blogpost on this passage May the Lord open our eyes to see who he is and how he has revealed himself to us.
As the Lord allows, I hope to see you Sunday.
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 7:53 - 8:11 1. What is textual criticism? And how does it relate to John 7:53–8:11? 2. Does textual criticism strengthen or weaken our confidence in the Bible? 3. What are reasons you can trust your Bible? 4. How can we approach John 7:53–8:11? How should we treat those who disagree with us, or hold a different view? 5. Moving the text, what is the main point of John 7–9? Of John’s Gospel? Hint: See John 1:12 and 20:31. 6. How does John 7:53–8:11 illustrate key truths from John’s Gospel? 7. By this story what do we learn about God? What others truths in Scripture reinforce this picture of God in Christ? 8. What else do we learn from John 7:53–8:11 and the Gospel of John?
This Sunday we continue our study of John 7. We considered last week the way Christ divides. The person and the work of Christ continue to divide humanity. Questions of who he is and whether he is who he claims to be, the Messiah, the Savior, the perfect God-man, are prominent themes in John 7 and today.
The setting for John 7 is the last day, the great day of the Feast of Tabernacles. This feast, also known as the Feast of Ingathering or Booths, lasted eight days. All through the first seven days water from the Pool of Siloam was carried in a golden pitcher and poured out at the altar in the temple to remind everyone of the water God miraculously provided for a thirsty Israel in the wilderness. It seems that on the eighth day there was no pouring of water – only prayers for water – to remind them that they came into the Promised Land. They lived in temporary shelters, booths, for seven days to remind them of their wilderness sojourn, but the eighth day was a holy convocation to the Lord. (See Lev 23:33—44; Deut 16:13—17.)
It is on this last day, the great day of the feast, when there was no pouring of the water, that Jesus stands in the temple area and cries out that if anyone thirsts, they should come to him and drink. He is the source of living water, and he will make living water flow from the hearts of those who come and drink of him. The celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles emphasized how God provided water to Israel in the wilderness on their way to Canaan. Jesus boldly called people to Himself to drink and satisfy their deepest thirst, their spiritual thirst. In preparation for our time together, read John 7. Notice how Christ divides, but how his division is both a source of comfort and anguish depending upon one’s thirst.
Pray for our time together that we would thirst for the living water of Christ the living Word, and his written Word. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday and drinking deeply of the living water that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ so abundantly provides.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor Rod
Discussion & Response Questions: John 7:37-39 As the crowds dispute with one another, what does this reveal about their understanding of Jesus’ identity? How do we know that what Jesus was about to say was of great importance? (v. 37) What is Important about where he said it? What is important about when he said it? What is important about how he said it? (Contrast this to Isaiah 42:2 and the general tone of his ministry.) What does it mean for one to go to Jesus and drink? How are we to do this? What does it mean for rivers of living water to flow from someone? Do rivers of living water flow from you? How does this connect to Ezekiel 47? How does reading Ezekiel 47 and Zechariah 4 and 14 with John 7 help us understand Jesus’s teaching in John 7? How does John’s explanation in verse 39 help us understand Jesus’ invitation in verses 37-38? How is the tension resolved between Prophet vs Christ (vv. 40-41), and Galilee vs. Bethlehem (vv. 41-42)? How do the Pharisees view the crowds in their thinking? Why? (vv. 45-52) What does this text reveal to us about Jesus? How should we respond to these truths?
If John’s Gospel is a testimony that calls readers to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, it should not surprise us to find witnesses, judgments, trials, and the need for the reader to make a decision: Who do you say Christ is?
In the other three Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), the climactic moments of Jesus’s earthly life result in a trial that sentences Christ to the cross. In John’s Gospel, the same trial is recorded, but in actuality, that trial spans the whole book.
In John 3, Nicodemus comes to question Jesus. In John 4, it is the Samaritan woman. In John 5, it is the Jewish leaders. In John 6, it is the crowds whom Jesus fed. And now in John 7, it is Jesus’s brothers and the crowds in Jerusalem who question Jesus. Not surprisingly, the life and works of Jesus divide the people, even as the person and work of Christ continue to divide humanity. Who is Jesus? Is he good or evil? Lord or lunatic? Savior or imposter? These are questions that continue to have weight today, even as they did in the days of Christ.
On Sunday, we will face these questions head on, to see again that Jesus is the Son who is bringing light into the world. Indeed, such light produces different results, but it is light that we must all come to see and render a verdict on. For in fact, his light is actually exposing our hearts and testing our faith.
In preparation for Sunday, take time to read John 7. Notice how it begins with Jesus’s brothers and ends with Nicodemus. Clearly, John is showing us how he is bringing people into the light. And for those of us who live in a world of darkness, we need to see how.
Take time to pray for our service and for those who come. May God shine his light upon us, as we gather to gaze at his grace and glory.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 7:1-36 How do the characters in these verses respond to Jesus? (his brothers, the crowds, the people of Jerusalem, the chief priests and Pharisees) How does the structure of John 7 help us understand the message? Why does Jesus decline to go to the feast with his brothers? Is he lying? Or is something else going on? How do the people see Jesus? (vv. 11-12) What does Jesus reveal about his teaching? What does this reveal about the mission of the Son? As many are misjudging Jesus, what does Jesus rightly judge about them? What do we learn about our own standing before Jesus? What is the crowds’ misunderstanding of the Messiah’s identity? (vv. 24-27) What is this passage revealing about Jesus’ hour? From what we see of Jesus in these verses, how should we respond to Him? What does the triad of Sabbath, Circumcision, and the Law teach us about the gospel and our response to God in Christ?
If the gospel is defined as the good news about Jesus Christ, the message of his death and resurrection should be confused with "soft” news.
In other words, the goodness of the gospel is not like K-Love's positive, encouraging new stories. Instead, the good news of God is a message that must deal with the hardness of the human heart and the depravity of the human race. Addressing men and women in such perilous conditions, it is not surprising that Jesus offers words that are hard. Hardened sinners need strong medicine, and Jesus words give us just what we need.
Indeed, John 6 might include some of the hardest sayings of Jesus, as many of his disciples say (v. 60). As a result, many of his disciples leave (v. 66). And yet, when they leave, Jesus does not bat an eye or change his approach. Instead, he offers an off ramp to his Twelve too.
What is he doing? What kind of Savior is Jesus that he is so willing to let his followers depart? What does it say about God and man that his words come across as so hard?
Such questions are the ones that either push people away from Jesus and draw them close. And this Sunday we will consider these kinds of questions. From John 6:60–71, we will learn that the words of Jesus are hard. But in their firmness we will find a solid foundation on which to build our lives. Truly, in a hard world, we need something harder on which to stand. And Jesus gives us that firm foundation.
If you want to walk with Jesus for all of eternity, therefore, John 6:60–69 is a passage with which you must come to grips. And this Sunday we will look at it together to bolster our faith.
In preparation for Sunday, take time to read John 6 again and pray that God would give us an unswerving commitment to follow Christ, hard sayings and all.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 6:60-71 What does this text reveal about the words of Jesus? What does this teach us about belief and unbelief? About the Spirit and flesh? What distinctions would you make between the disciples who left Jesus, and the twelve? Why would Jesus teach “hard sayings” knowing that some would turn away and no longer walk with him? Many will decry giving offense, seeing anything that causes division negatively. Some will soften messages to keep people together, rather than addressing different issues. Biblically, how should we consider these things? What does biblical fidelity look like? When is division necessary, and when should unity be preserved? Consider Peter’s confession (vv. 68-69), and your confession. How did the Lord work to bring you to faith in Christ? Compare and contrast the disciples’ question in verse 60, with Peter’s question in verse 68. What makes the difference between them? How is it that Peter is able to confess these things? How do we see Father, Son, and Spirit working in this text? How would you describe Jesus from this text? How should we respond to these truths?
Cannibalism. Vampirism. And plain old weird-ism.
Any one of these -isms could be applied to Jesus’s words in John 6:53–54, which read
“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day."
What does this verse mean? Is it literal? Are the ancient accusations that Christians are cannibals true? Or are Jesus’s words mere metaphor? And if metaphorical, what is the meaning behind the metaphor?
This Sunday, we will answer those questions, to show that Jesus is not inviting vampirism (a concern that I recently heard from a Lyft driver), nor is he calling for his followers to be Cannibals. Instead, he is explaining how his followers must come to him and believe in him and the death he died on the cross.
Truly, if anyone wants to be in Christ and to have Christ in him, they must “eat” his flesh and “drink” his blood. This visceral teaching indicates how close our spiritual union with Christ is, and how our spiritual with Christ depends upon the blood of his cross.
To prepare for Sunday, read John 6. You may also find Numbers 9 and Isaiah 54 two important chapters for understanding Jesus’s words. Let’s pray that God gives us an appetite for Christ, because in fact, our Heavenly Father has prepared a banqueting table in the death and resurrection of his Son. May all who are hungry come and feed on him—the Bread of Life.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 6:41-59 Why do the Jews grumble? What does this reveal about their understanding of who Jesus is? (vv. 41-42) Consider Jesus’ instruction in verses 41-51. How does Jesus address their grumbling? What argument is Jesus making from the Old Testament? What is he revealing about himself? Notice how grumbling turns to arguing (v. 52). How will this question be answered? Consider Jesus’ words in verses 53-58. What does he repeat from earlier? What does Jesus emphasize in this teaching? What do these teachings reveal about who Jesus is? What do they reveal about his mission? What do they reveal about the Son’s relationship to the Father in regard to his mission? Why is Jesus called the living bread? How does the Father’s relationship to the Son connect with Jesus being living bread? What does it mean to feed on Jesus’ flesh and drink his blood? How does this go sideways with the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation? How should we respond to Jesus? What do we learn about our own radical dependence on God’s grace? What do we learn about the gospel and its defense today?
Hunger is a universal experience. So is thirst. And so is seeking to find food and drink in times of need.
Importantly, God made us creatures who need food and drink. And he did this not only because that is how organisms live, but that’s how God works. In other words, by giving us thirst, hunger, and the experience of seeking physical satisfaction, God is teaching us something about himself.
God is our spiritual food! In John 6, this comes to the forefront as seekers cross the Sea of Galilee to find Jesus and fill their stomachs. Only in this case, Jesus exposes their errant seeking and he in turn leads them to seek food that will not perish.
Indeed, so many of our sins, follies, frustrations, and setbacks are caused by not knowing how to live on Christ, to feed on Christ, and to delight ourselves in Christ. But on Sunday, we will learn from Jesus how to come to Jesus and how to find food and drink for our souls.
So read John 6 to prepare for Sunday and don’t forget Sunday is also Mother’s Day. So do something nice for your mom and come to church to worship Christ.
As the Lord allows, I will see you Sunday!
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 6:22-40 Why are the crowds seeking Jesus? (vv. 22-26) What is the food that does not perish? (See also Isaiah 55:1-2) What is the work of God? (vv. 28-29) Evaluate the request for a sign, and the crowd’s use of Scripture (vv. 30-31). How does Jesus correct them? How does this mirror the conversation with the Samaritan woman in John 4? Consider Jesus’ teaching in verses 35-40. How does this parallel what Jesus taught Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman? What is Jesus revealing about himself? How should we respond to Jesus? How can we respond to Jesus? Does this teaching give us more or less confidence in evangelism? What else do we learn about God and our salvation in John 6?
It’s not easy being a sheep. You are not in charge of your own life. You are in constant need of protection. You don’t always know where your next meal will come from. And you are easily injured, downcast, or exploited by others.
Such is the life of a sheep.
And yet, here we are. In the Bible, God’s people are sheep. Not mustangs. Nor dolphins. Nor canines. But sheep.
We are not the fastest, nor the smartest, nor the best friend of man. Instead, we are people desperately in need of a Shepherd to lead, feed, guide, and protect us. And thankfully, in Christ, we have such a Good Shepherd.
This Sunday, we will pick up this Shepherd theme again in John 6. Even more, as we watch the disciples struggle in the storm before Jesus walks on the water, we will dig deep into what it means to be a follower of Christ.
As you have time, read John 6. And if you want to see some of the background texts for John 6:16–24 take a look at Isaiah 43 and Psalm 107.
I am hopeful that Sunday’s message will help make sense of many struggles in our lives and will offer us much grace to embrace our sheepiness as we follow the Good Shepherd.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions: John 6:16-24
- How does knowing the background of the Exodus (Exodus-Numbers) play a key role in understanding John 6?
- What does this background teach us about Christ? What is the main point of the chapter?
- John 6:16–24 functions as more than a transition from one place to the next. What do we learn in these verses?
- How does John 6:1–15 relate to John 6:16–24 and vice versa? In what ways is Jesus like Moses? In what ways is he not like Moses?
- If Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10), how does John 6 teach us to follow him?
- In your own life, how have you seen God lead you into danger, only to rescue you?
- Why is it important to understand that part of God’s good shepherding includes danger, affliction, and scarcity?
- What have you learned about God through your various dangers, toils, and snares?
- If and when you don’t feel God’s presence, what should you do?
- What other questions or encouragements does John 6 give you?
Have you ever sat down to dinner, and when you were finished, there was more leftovers at the end than food at the beginning?
This Sunday as we continue in the Gospel of John we will see the great sufficiency of Jesus as he feeds the 5,000. While familiar to many, this sign performed by Jesus should fill us with awe and cause us to marvel at the great all-sufficiency of our Lord. I invite you to read John 6:1-15 in advance, and pay attention to the details.
I look forward to gathering with you this Sunday as we gather to worship our risen Lord!
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions John 6:1-15 Why does Jesus withdraw from the crowds (vv. 1-3, 15)? Why do you think Jesus tests his disciples? How do they respond to this test? Notice the details: Why would John mention the Passover? The amount of grass? How does this event compare with the feeding of Israel in the wilderness following the Exodus? See Ex 16; Num 11; Ps 78; Ps 105. Given the miraculous provision for the crowd, why would Jesus care about the leftovers? How does the crowd respond to this sign (vv. 14-15)? How does this compare to 5:46-47? Why does Jesus reject the crowd’s attempt at king-making? What truths about Christ does this event reveal? How ought we to respond to these truths?
He is Risen. He is Risen Indeed!
On Sunday we will take our service, our songs, and our celebration outside to rejoice in the resurrection of Christ. Come join us at 10:00am, as we gather in our parking lot to declare to the world that Jesus reigns and that our Lord saves.
On Sunday, we will return to John 5:25–29 to consider the three resurrections you need, and the one resurrection you don’t. If you know someone who needs to hear the gospel message, this Sunday would be a great time to invite them.
Come early. Dress warm. And bring your camping chair. We look forward to worshiping the risen Christ with you on Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions John 5:25-29 What kind of resurrection does Jesus identify as already happening (i.e. the “hour . . . is now here”)? What is the relationship between hearing and resurrection? What has John revealed about eternal life so far? (John 3:15-16; 3:36; 4:14; 4:36; 5:24) What does verse 26 teach us about the life of the Son? How else have we see the Son’s life in the Gospel of John? (See John 1:4, 5:21) What kind of resurrection does Jesus identify as future (i.e. “an hour is coming”)? How is Jesus’ resurrection essential to all these realities? How should we respond to these truths?
Who do you listen to? And how well do you listen?
An honest answer to those questions will tell you a lot about who you are and who you will be in five, ten, or fifty (thousand) years.
Few things are more important than the voices that we will listen to. And few gifts are more precious than men and women who testify to the grace of God in the gospel. If you are listening to others who speak of Christ, point to Christ, and help you follow Christ, you can know these are not just good friends, they are gifts from God.
This Sunday, we will consider a similar line of thought as we listen to five “witnesses” who all tell us something about Christ. At a time when Jesus' identity was in question and his actions were inviting opposition, Jesus turns to a host of witnesses who declare that he is the true Son of God, to whom we should listen and obey.
Just the same, if we listen to these witnesses today, we will be in a good position to learn who Christ is and how to follow him. On Sunday’s that’s exactly what we will consider.
To get ready, take time to read John 5, especially verses 30–47. And pray that God would give us hearts to receive Christ and believe on him.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions John 5:30-47 How does Jesus describe his relationship with the Father? Does Jesus bear witness about himself? How is one’s testimony validated? What should we learn from these witnesses who bear testimony about Jesus? a. John (vv. 33-35) b. Jesus’ Works (v. 36) c. The Father (vv. 37-38) d. The Scriptures (vv. 39) e. Moses (vv. 45-47) How did they respond to these witnesses? What is Jesus communicating about his glory (vv. 41-44)? How should we respond to these witnesses?
Sermon Introduction
There’s a reason that serial TV shows start out by saying, “Previously on ….” It’s been a week since you saw the last episode, but in order to follow the plot, you need to remember what happened at that warehouse, what was said at that table in the restaurant, and that Max made a significant discovery. If you don’t remember these things, tonight’s episode won’t make any sense.
I don’t want to compare Scripture to a TV series, but I do want to point out the importance of following the story line of Scripture. As we study through the gospel of John on Sunday mornings, we see why it is good to “binge,” to simply read a book of the Bible in one sitting. When you read a book in one sitting, it’s easier to remember what has happened and relate it to what you’re currently reading. It’s easier to follow the story or the argument.
As we think about John 5:19-29, we can remember that John starts his gospel by showing that the Son of God was sent by the Father into the world to bring life and light. The One who was promised long ago has finally come. Jesus then begins to gather His people; He chooses His disciples. They attend a wedding, where Jesus performs a miracle and presents Himself as the perfect, sufficient bridegroom. This bridegroom imagery is picked up in John 3 and comes to fruition at the well in Samaria (John 4). Throughout, Jesus has been illustrating the insufficiency of the OT cleansing rituals and even worship in the Temple as He emphasizes that these don’t bring life, but Jesus does. Jesus shows His magnificent life-giving power by healing the nearly dead son of an official and then healing a man who had been sick for 38 years. Moreover, by healing him on the Sabbath, Jesus highlights not only the Pharisees’ toxic legalism but also the fact that He is “lord of the Sabbath” (Luke 6:5). In John 5:19ff, it’s time in John’s gospel to hear from Jesus a fuller explanation of who He is and what it is that He’s doing.
We look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we look into these magnificent words of Jesus that not only highlight His life-giving power but also give us amazing insights into the nature of God Himself!
May God bless our time together as we seek a greater knowledge of our Lord.
Bruce Forsee
Discussion & Response Questions John 5:18-29 How does Jesus describe his relationship to the Father? Why does the Father show the Son what he is doing? How ought we to respond to these works? What does Jesus teach about life, judgment, and honor? What is the relationship between life and judgment? Notice that Jesus says “an hour is coming, and is now here” (v. 25). Do you remember this from John 4:23? What is Jesus communicating by saying this? How is the hour that is now here (v. 25) different from the hour to come (v. 28)? What is different between the “hearing” in verses 24-25, and the “hearing” in verses 28-29? What is the significance of the title "Son of Man" in verse 27, and why does Jesus use this title here? What does Jesus teach about the relationship between his words and life? How ought we to respond to these truths about the Father and Son?
Sermon Introduction
Where do you find rest?
On the couch? At the beach? On the Sabbath? Or someplace else?
This Sunday we will consider what Sabbath rest means and how to find it. Even more we will see how the healing and rebuking of a lame man promises true rest for each of us.
As with all the promises of the Old Testament, they all lead us to Christ. And so we will see how Jesus is our Sabbath rest this Sunday—and everyday!
Take time to read John 5 and Jeremiah 17, and pray that God might open our hearts to receive his Word this Lord’s Day.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions John 5:1-17 What are the feasts of the Jews? What do Jesus’ words to the invalid reveal about the situation? Is faith and repentance necessary for healing? Does this man know and trust in Jesus before he is healed? Should this passage be used to argue that illness is a result of sin? How does Scripture speak about this? How does Jesus call this man to repentance? How should we understand the Sabbath controversy of this story and Jesus’ response in verse 17? What should we learn from the events of vv. 1-17? What truths do these verses reveal to us about Jesus? How should we respond to these truths?
Sermon Introduction From Cana . . . to Cana. This is how the Gospel of John begins and ends chapters 2–4.
In John 2, we are brought to a wedding in Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine and performed his first sign. Now, as John 4 returns to Cana, John concludes his three chapters that all show us how Jesus is replacing the old order with the new. That is, after passing through Galilee to Jerusalem to Samaria, and back through Galilee, we arrive in Cana to see Jesus raise the (nearly) dead to life, and to fulfill all we have seen in John 2–4.
In this healing of the royal official's son (John 4:43–54), we find the second sign of Jesus, one that points to his final sign—his resurrection from the dead. Indeed, in John’s Gospel there are seven signs, and the eighth, the one that begins a new week (i.e., a new creation) is his resurrection. Putting the whole thing together, John 2–4 explains to us how Jesus can raise the dead to life, how he is making a new bride, and how he is giving faith to those who were once dead in their trespasses and sins.
If you want to see how faith comes to life, join us on Sunday, as we look at the work of Jesus raising the dead and granting faith to the living. As we have seen throughout John 2–4, John is doing more than just introducing us to Jesus, he is showing how the Son of God has come to earth to fulfill all the promises of the Old Testament and to bring us eternal life. If that sounds like something you need to hear—and it is something we all need to hear—join us Sunday as we set our gaze on Jesus.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 2–4 and pray that God would give us life. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and for your joy in Jesus, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions John 4:43 - 54 Why is the location of Cana significant to this narrative? What did Jesus do at the feast? (See John 2:23) What is the relationship in this passage between signs and wonders and faith? How is the official’s faith in verse 50 different from his faith in verse 53? How do you see God use this son’s illness for his glory? How does the prosperity gospel and faith healing movement distort texts like this? How do we guard against such interpretations? How does Scripture speak about God’s purposes in illness? Is healing guaranteed if one has faith? What is the purpose these signs in the Gospel of John? How ought we to respond to these truths?
This Sunday we come to the third and final section of Jesus’s encounter with the Samaritan woman.
Already we have seen what Jesus has to say about a new (marriage) covenant and a new (mountaintop) place of worship. And now, we will see what it means that Jesus is the Messiah (v. 25–26) and how the Spirit given to him creates life in all those to whom he gives the Spirit.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 4. And if you want to see some of the background, take time to look at Ezekiel 16–17. In John’s Gospel, Ezekiel often shows up, and John 4 is no different. In bringing a harvest of salvation to Samaria, Jesus is fulfilling the end-times prophecies of Ezekiel. And this Sunday, we will see how God’s long-awaited promise of salvation has come to the world.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and marveling at the God who is our Savior.
For His Glory and your joy in Christ,
Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions John 4:27 - 42 What have you learned about John 4, as you have studied this passage? How does John 4:27–42 bring Jesus’s encounter with the woman at the well to a close? Consider the way Jesus promised living water (v. 14) and the woman leaving her water jar behind (v. 28). Is John 4 an example of evangelism for us to imitate? Or is it a message of promises fulfilled? How does that difference impact our reading / applying John 4? How does the context of Samaria (vv. 24-42) shape this instruction on the harvest? What is the harvest? How does Jesus’ conversation with the disciples about food parallel his conversation with the Samaritan woman about water? What is Jesus seeking to impart to his disciples as he instructs them in verses 31-38? Who is sowing and reaping? What is the disciples’ role? How does the Samaritans’ reception of Jesus in John 4 differ from Nicodemus in John 3? Why do the Samaritans believe? Consider what we have read in John 3–4. What is the significance of location for the statement "Jesus is the Savior of the World” (John 4:42)? How does this inform John 3:16? What applications might we appropriately draw from this text? How should we respond to this text?
Sermon Introduction
Baptisms and Bridegrooms and Beliefs, oh my.
This Sunday, we will see all of these things in action, as we take another look at John 3.
In verses 22–36, we will find another priestly figure in Israel who has to make a decision about Jesus. Only this time the response will be different. Whereas Nicodemus came to the Lord in the darkness of night, John the Baptist will see Jesus by the light of the day. And in the light of day, Jesus is seen baptizing. That is to say, he is doing what John has been doing. And recognizing the turf war that is about to take place, John’s disciples go to their teacher concerned about John’s future.
Yet, instead of resisting Jesus, fighting for his ministry and his baptism, John submits himself to the Lord and demonstrates what true and humble faith looks like. Not only does John’s obedient faith stand in contrast to Nicodemus’s false faith, but it invites us to consider how we respond to Jesus, when he takes away our place of ministry and prominence.
Can we say with gladness that I must decrease in order for Jesus to increase?
Sunday, we will look carefully at the two baptisms of Jesus and John, as well as the way the friend of the bridegroom points to the groom. To prepare for Sunday, read over John 3 and pray for God to lead us out of darkness and into the light. If you are looking to better understand John 2–4, this blogpost might be helpful. And if baptism, especially baptism by immersion, is still a question for you, this blogpost on John 3 may also help.
Studying John has been a deep joy for me, and I look forward to sharing the gospel goodness of John 3 on Sunday. May the Lord grant us grace to gather and to see the glory of his Son.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions 1. How does seeing the parallelism between Nicodemus (3:1–21) and John (3:22–36) help us understand John’s message? 2. What is the main point of the passage? 3. How might this passage inform our understanding of the doctrine of baptism? 4. How is John’s baptism different from Christian baptism? 5. How does baptism relate to the new birth? Water baptism relate to baptism in the Spirit? 6. What might we learn from John’s response to his disciples about the departure of his followers? 7. Why is John joyful in his diminishment? 8. Who is being contrasted in verses 31-36? What is the composite picture of each person? 9. What truths does this text reveal about our Triune God and the working of Father, Son, and Spirit in accomplishing salvation? 10. What does it mean to obey the Son in verse 36? (See also Romans 1:1-6 and 16:25-27). 11. How ought we to respond to these truths?
Sermon Introduction Flex and obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to flex and obey.
Years ago, when I worked as a church janitor, this was a song I learned from my supervisor. And it’s happy revision of the faithful song, “Trust and Obey,” comes to mind as I think about this last week.
As Christians, we always submit ourselves to the sovereign plans of God (Prov. 16:1, 9), and when we do we give grace to the Lord when he confirms the work of our hands (Ps. 90:17). Last Sunday, the Lord was kind to OBC in numerous ways. Not only did he permit our church to gather, in person, with singing, and Scripture, but he permitted us to hear the entire book of Hebrews. Even more, as I have heard from so many, it really was a unique, encouraging, and Christ-exalting sermon. Hallelujah!
At the same time that OBC was gathering, I was being treated for the throat condition that prevented me from gathering with you and preaching. Should you want to hear how all that played out and how God answered your prayers, you can read the blog here. It also reflects on the goodness of having multiple pastors, reading Scripture in service, and trusting in the sufficiency of God’s Word.
Additionally, last week’s single gathering previewed what we will begin in earnest this week. If you haven’t read the email (sent on Wednesday night), please check out the details for Sunday’s service. For the foreseeable future, we plan to have one service on Sunday mornings. This week, we will gather for Sunday School at 9:00AM, followed by service at 10:00AM. Again, all the details are in the previous email, including a few logistical keys—like helping new families and others to find places to sit.
Finally, as we prepare for Sunday, please pray for the youth who leave for their retreat today. And pray that we get to start John 3. I am planning to preach and I am excited to do so. Still, am reminded afresh at how our plans are always in the Lord’s hands. So let us prayer with earnestness to hear his Word Sunday, and that he would grant us the chance to hear John 3.
Until then, thank you for all of your prayers for me and for your grace in being flexible and following your elders as we seek to follow Christ.
With gratefulness to God for the body of Christ at OBC, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions What does it mean for one to be born again (or born from above)? See also John 1:13, and 1 Peter 1:3-5. What truths from the Old Testament should Nicodemus understand, which should shape his understanding of what it means to be born again? How should we understand the water in John 3:5? How should we not understand it? See John 4:14; 7:38; Ezek 36:25-27. What spiritual realities are communicated in v. 8 as the Holy Spirit’s work is compared to the wind? Review Numbers 21 and the story of the bronze serpent. How should this inform Nicodemus and our understanding of being born again? How does the story of the bronze serpent shape our understanding of John 3:16-21? How should we understand John 3:19-21? See also John 1:13. How should we respond to this text? For those who believe, how might we respond? For those who do not believe, how would you encourage them to respond?
When John Calvin returned to Geneva, after being exiled from the city for three years, he picked up where he left off. Rather than preaching some preacher-centered ‘I’m Back” message, he simply preached the next verse in the Bible. So great was Calvin’s commitment to verse-by-verse exposition, that he made no fanfare for his return to the pulpit. Rather, he preached the Word and pointed people to Christ.
This week, we do something similar. In March 2020, we were forced to stop gathering for two months. And though we continued to preach the Bible, verse-by-verse through Psalms, Joel, Daniel, and other scriptures, we did put the Gospel of John down for a later time. And by God’s grace, that time is now.
Starting Sunday, we pick up where we left off—or more exactly—we will overview John 1–2 to remember what those chapters said. In seven portraits from those two chapters, we will see a beautiful picture of Christ. And to prepare for this week’s sermon, I encourage you to read those two chapters. As you have time, you should also (re)listen to sermons on those two chapters—if not before Sunday, in the coming weeks. You can find those sermons here, plus other resources on John’s Gospel here.
As we return to John, let us give thanks to God for his grace. He is the one who numbers our days, and we should pray that he might permit us to study this book together. As we have been reminded too many times in the last two years, our lives are a vapor and tomorrow is a gift. Thus, with hope for God’s grace in this day and this Sunday, let us pray for his blessing as we begin this new series.
As the Lord allows, I will look forward to seeing you Sunday as we behold Christ in the Gospel of John.
For His matchless glory and your eternal joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions When was the last time you read John? What comes to mind when you read it? What are you excited about in studying this book? What is the big picture of the gospel? What role does John 1:1-18 play in introducing the book? How does John organize the first two chapters? How does seeing that structure help us understand his message? What do the first two chapters teach us about Jesus? Take time to look at each section: John 1:1–18 — The Word of God made Flesh John 1:19–28 — The Lord is Here John 1:29–35 – The Son of God who is the Lamb John 1:35–42 – The Lamb of God who is the Messiah John 1:43–51 — The King to Whom the Law and Prophets Point John 2:1–12 — The Bridegroom Who Brings a New Covenant John 2:13–23 – The True Temple of God is Here What do we learn about ourselves in John 1–2? How do these chapters prepare us for John 3? What do we learn about the salvation promised to us in John’s Gospel? What else stands out from these two chapters? What questions remain?
Dear Church Family,
As we come upon yet another anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we cannot help but grieve at the destruction of innumerable little ones. This great evil stands in stark opposition to the sanctity of life as upheld in God’s Word. This Sunday we mark as Sanctity of Life Sunday and we will turn our attention to the foundation of this doctrine in Genesis 1 as God creates humanity in his image.
I invite you to read Genesis 1:24-31 in preparation for worship, and to come gather with us this Sunday as we worship the God who has formed and made each one of us.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
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Discussion and Response Questions
- When you think of abortion/infanticide, do you think of this issue merely in terms of Roe v. Wade, or have you also thought about it globally and historically? How might considering it in those ways help reframe this issue?
- If Roe v. Wade is overturned, does this have any impact the responsibility of the saints in relationship to the sanctity of life?
- What is the significance of mankind being created in the image of God? What is the significance of the image of God for understanding mankind’s responsibilities in creation?
- What are implications of the image of God for how we relate to other image-bearers?
- What happens to the image of God in the fall?
- What does it mean that Jesus is the true image of God? (2 Cor 4:4; Col 1:15; Heb 1:3)
- What impact does the gospel and our salvation have on our identity as image-bearers? (Col 3:10; 2 Cor 3:18)
- How should we respond to God’s creation of us as image-bearers? (Gen 1, Ps 139)
- What are some practical ways that you might uphold the sanctity of life?
We live in a culture filled with the noise of competing voices. Facts are not self-interpreting and even “news sources” seem to have an agenda. We hear statements like “just follow the science,” but the course of action seems to defy all facts and logic. The solutions to problems that so-called experts advance seem to confuse more than clarify at best, and at worst they are wicked and ungodly courses of action. As Christians, how do we speak truth to one another, give counsel, and share the hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? How do we know how to answer the questions that confront us?
The answer provided in God’s Word is the discipline of spiritual discernment. Have you thought of discernment as a discipline? Do you take seriously the call to be mature as believers? What does that mean and how do you begin to practice the discipline of spiritual discernment? These are questions that we will consider this Sunday. Our text will be 1 Corinthians 2:6-16. Read and meditate on that passage in preparation for our time together.
May the Lord bless our time together as we seek to glorify him through growing in the discipline of spiritual discernment.
Pastor Rod
Discussion & Response Questions What is spiritual maturity? How do we sometimes define it? How do we see it defined in 1 Cor 2? What is wisdom? How is it different than knowledge? What Scripture would you refer to in order to explain the difference? What is the connection between Spiritual maturity and love? Why is love a better indicator than knowledge of maturity? Why is knowledge necessary for love? (cf Phil 1:9) How would you define discernment? What is the difference between knowledge and discernment? What is the relationship between the two? What are some marks of discernment? What are marks of a lack of discernment? Why is it important for all believers to grow in maturity and discernment? How do you practice growing in spiritual discernment? Where are you strong in spiritual discernment? Where are you tempted to lack discernment and think like a “natural person”? What steps will you take to improve Scripture intake for the purpose of speaking with godly wisdom and discernment?
Why is it so hard to pray? In our age of constant distraction, the things that are seen draw our attention away from a God whom we can't see. The Bible is full of passages revealing that prayer is foundational to our walk with God, but what are the foundations of prayer? This Sunday we'll look in an unlikely place (Genesis 3:8-13) to see some foundational questions that will help us posture ourselves for prayer.
Discussion & Response Questions If prayer is talking with God, how does Genesis 3 help you to think about prayer? What are some foundational questions that might help us posture ourselves for prayer? Consider Matthew 6:5-13. How is Jesus teaching his disciples to pray? Consider John Bunyan’s definition of prayer: “Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the heart or soul to God, through Christ, in the strength and assistance of the Holy Spirit, for such things as God hath promised, or according to the Word, for the good of the church, with submission, in faith, to the will of God.” What do you find helpful in this definition? What do you find helpful when you pray? What do you find difficult when you pray?
"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away.” (Job 1:21)
And the Word of God says: "Blessed be the name of the Lord.”
As I write this email on the last day of the year, I am reminded that many families in our church have have lost loved ones in 2021. And just this week, our church body has been tossed and torn as the Lord took Tracy Dugan home to be with him.
In moments like this, where the specter of death overshadows us and the pain of loss afflicts us, words are not sufficient. But neither is silence. And thus, we come to the Word of God and find confessions like this: "My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!” and "My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!”
When our words fail us, the Word of God does not. And this Sunday we will gather to hear that Word and to meditate on Psalm 119:25–32.
While January will be a month where we focus on spiritual disciplines, personal and public, the first Sunday of the year will be spent considering how the Word of God gives grace when death afflicts.
As you have time read Psalm 119---its the long one, so give yourself time to soak it in—and pray for our gathering. Please pray for Collene and her girls (Kelsey, Mabry, and Naomi) and the rest of the family. May the Lord give them grace and strength as they make funeral arrangements for Tracy. As we have more information, we will share them with you.
Until then, let us bless the name of the Lord, for he is good and he does good. And ultimately, his work will put death to death, as life swallows the grave. Meditating on that point you may find help here: From Death to Life: How Joshua Teaches us to Find Resurrection Hope in the Midst of Loss.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday, as the Lord allows and the Lord gathers us together.
Sorrowful, yet rejoicing in the Lord, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 119
Psalm 119:25-32
- As you reflect on 2021, for what are you thankful? Sorrowful? Prayerful?
- As you begin 2022, what are you praying for or striving for in the power of the Lord?
- When you have read Psalm 1:19 in the past, what have you learned or appreciated?
- In verses 25–32, what are some of the words that stand out to you? How does beginning by looking at repeated words help you to understand these verses?
- What is the flow of thought in these eight verses? How does that help you apply these verses to you?
- In verses 25- 32, what do you learn about God? His word? And yourself?
- how do these verses encourage you? And help you going into this year? How might they minister grace to you or someone else who has been suffering loss?
- How does Mark 4 illustrate Psalm 119? How does the enfleshed omnipotence of Jesus encourage you? How does it give you confidence to approach this year?
- What else are you praying for in 2022?
Merry Christmas!
At Easter, we declare “He is risen!” “He is risen, indeed!”
And at Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus because he is the risen Lord. Tonight (at 5:00pm and 7:00pm) and on Sunday (at 11:00am) we will gather to worship our Lord, the Son of God, who was born so that we could be born again.
As you have time, let me encourage you to read Matthew 1 and Revelation 12, the two passages we will consider this weekend. You can also find a Christmas devotional on Matthew 1 here and Isaiah 7:14 here.
In our Christmas Eve service, we will see how Christ fulfills the promises to Abraham, David, and Israel. At the same time, take time to invite a friend to join us tonight. It’s not too late, and the good news of Christ is too good not to share.
Then, on Sunday, we will turn to Revelation to see how the seed of the woman has been born to defeat the devil. Thankfully, the message of Christmas does not end in Bethlehem (the house of bread), it ends in heaven (the house of God). And on Sunday, we will see how Christ’s ascension to heaven gives his people hope and strength here on earth.
To that end, let's pray that God would strengthen his saints. In a world of moral darkness and omicron doom, I look forward to singing Christmas Carols with you tonight and recounting the ways that God has brought his light and salvation into the world.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions
- As we come to the last sermon of the year, what book, truth, passage of Scripture has been (most) helpful for you in 2021?
- How has seeing Genesis 3:15 run across salvation history helped you better understand the Bible?
- When you read Revelation, what helps you understand it? How does recognizing its symbolism help you understand it? What about it’s dependence on the Old Testament?
- How does keeping Christ at the center of Revelation help you see what the book is about?
- What does Revelation 12 teach you about Christ and the spiritual warfare in our world?
- Why is it best to understand the mother in Revelation 12 as the messianic community more than Mary alone? How do the promises of a pregnant mother prepare us for Christ’s birth? See Isaiah 7:10–14; 26:17–27:6; 52:1–10; 66:7–12.
- What is the good news of Christ’s ascension? What happens in heaven when Christ took his seat at God’s right hand?
- What happens on earth after Christ is raised to heaven? How does knowing what has happened in heaven give us strength?
- Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world.” As we conclude one year and anticipate another, take time to reflect on the promises of God. How do the promises of Christ’s victory give you assurance to walk in faith today?
This Sunday, we will take up that theme again, as we see the seed of the woman born in Bethlehem. As we will discover, Matthew is not shy about making connections between Jesus and the seed of the woman, nor is he quiet about the way Herod presents himself as serpentine ruler like Pharaoh whose opposition to Christ results in his own demise.
In fact, as we will see in Matthew 1–2, the promise of Genesis 3:15 is fulfilled with remarkable precision. And as we celebrate the birth of Christ on Sunday, we will ponder these two chapters.
In preparation, let me encourage you to read Matthew 1–2 and to pray for the fruitfulness of God’s Word. We will look at both chapters on Sunday as we worship the risen Christ who reigns on high.
Additionally, if you would like to pick up a rubber serpent on Sunday, one you can add to your manger scene to celebrate Christ’s defeat of Satan, just let me know. I might know where to find one. I hope to see you on Sunday.
For Christ’s Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Matthew 1-2
- When you celebrate Christmas, what are some of themes that encourage you the most?
- How does reading the birth stories in Matthew and Luke in light of the Old Testament adjust your thoughts about Christmas?
- What are the ways in which Matthew 1 connects Jesus’s birth to Genesis? The seed of the woman?
- What are the way in which Matthew 2 shows Herod to be the serpent’s seed? And a foe soon to be defeated?
- How does reading Matthew 1–2 with the storyline of Scripture impact / change / increase your understanding of Christ’s birth?
- How does the theme of God’s victory over evil encourage you? Strengthen your confidence? Or embolden you?
- Does knowing the spiritual warfare present in the Bible discourage you or raise other questions?
- In what ways does God call us to follow the path of Christ? (Hint: put the indicative before the imperative — before we can do, we must rest in what he has done)
- What else have you learned about Christ, the church, or the world by seeing Jesus as the seed of the woman?
In one sentence, can you give the message of the Bible?
A few years ago, Dane Ortlund asked this question and received answers from a host of pastors, scholars, and other Christians, but one answer stood out from the rest and has taken on a life of its own. The answer comes from the provocateur, poet, and pastor, Douglas Wilson. He writes, "Scripture tells us the story of how a Garden is transformed into a Garden City, but only after a dragon had turned that Garden into a howling wilderness, a haunt of owls and jackals, which lasted until an appointed warrior came to slay the dragon, giving up his life in the process, but with his blood effecting the transformation of the wilderness into the Garden City."
In short: Kill the Dragon, Get the Girl. Whereby the Dragon is the Twisted Serpent of the Garden, the Girl is the Bride of Christ described as a glorious Garden City in Revelation 21–22, and the Slayer of the Dragon is the Son of God who took on flesh to come and save his damsel in distress by destroying the Dragon by means of his own death and resurrection.
That in a short sentence is the message of the Bible. And this Sunday we begin a three-week Christmas series following this storyline. If you want a longer introduction, see this blogpost Or, you can pick up the book The Serpent and the Serpent Slayer by Andy Naselli. We will have a few on the shelf at church.
For all of us, as we come to celebrate the birth of Christ this Christmas, let us remember why he came—to save us (his bride) from our sins and to deliver us from his enemy (the serpent). Sunday, we will celebrate both of these truths. And I look forward to joining with you and singing praises to our great God and King.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Genesis 3:15
- When you think of Christmas, what comes to mind? What part of Christmas is the most
- Why might a sentimental, Charles Dickens Christmas mislead our understanding of the birth of Christ?
- What is the context of Genesis 3? What does Genesis 3:15 have to do with Christmas?
- How do the birth stories, serpent sightings, and bruised heads of the Bible teach us about Christ?
- What does the first gospel promise teach us about God? About ourselves? About salvation?
- How does the seed warfare of the Bible inform our understanding of the world?
- How do we need to crush the serpent under our feet today?
- What other questions or encouragements does Genesis 3:15 elicit?
As we come to the last message of our series on the cross, before considering the cradle and the cross of Christ (our Advent mini-series) we will return to the theme that we started with—the finished work of Christ.
If Christ declared that it was finished on the cross (John 19:30). And his crucifixion completed the work described in Psalm 22 (see v. 31). Then Hebrews 9 gives us another passage where the once and for all work of Christ is extolled and explained. In fact, in describing the ways that Christ is better than all the persons, events, and institutions that preceded him in Israel, Hebrews 9 explains how the cross works—both on earth and in heaven.
As you have time, read Hebrews 9 and pray that God would open our eyes to see all the ways that Christ fulfills all the types and shadows of the Old Testament. Indeed, all of the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings point to Christ, and this Sunday, Lord willing, we will see how that works once and for all.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Hebrews 9
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What are the key components of the Levitical system of sacrifice? (Hint: there are four)
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What do you know about each—the tabernacle, the priesthood, the sacrifices, and the covenant?
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Why is it necessary to know these components of the sacrificial system, if you want to know the finished work of Christ?
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How does Christ’s cross (and resurrection and ascension) fulfill the sacrificial system?
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In what ways does Hebrews 9 depend upon and quote the Old Testament to explain Christ’s death and resurrection?
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How is Christ better? Why is this good news for the Jewish followers of Christ? How is this good news for us?
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What does it mean that Christ is the mediator of a new covenant?
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What did the blood of Christ accomplish? Remember, the blood applies in two directions in Hebrews 9.
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How does Christ purify heaven? How do we see that in the text?
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How does the inauguration of the new covenant and the exaltation of Christ into heaven change the world? And impact your life?
Where do you look when you don’t feel the love of God?
This Sunday we will look to 1 John 4 to answer that question. And what we will find is that the unchanging and objective work of God also has a personal and subjective application to all those who are in Christ. Indeed, the cross not only does something for us, it does something to us. And this Sunday we will see what that is.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read 1 John. While our focus will be on 1 John 4:7–12, the whole book is aimed to give assurance to God’s people, all the while exposing unbelief. So take time to read and pray for our gathering.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday, as the Lord allows, and to worshipping Christ with you.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 John 4 1. What have you learned so far this fall about the cross? 2. Why is it important to first see the cross as something Christ achieved (“It is finished”) before seeing it as something where God displays his love? 3. What does John say about love in 1 John 4? 4. In what ways is it difficult to know or embrace God’s love? 5. What does the cross teach us about God’s love? And how does it produce love in us? 6. How does the church, who is dedicated to the cross, show the love of God? 7. What else did you learn about the love of God? 8. Who needs to hear from you about the love of God?
Since the start of our series on the cross, one recurring theme we have seen is the way that judgment and salvation are paired. In the Passover, God saved his firstborn and judged Egypt’s firstborns. At the Red Sea, God saved his people and destroyed Pharaoh and his army. Just the same, as I read 2 Kings 3 this week, I found this theme again. The water that God provided to save Israel is the same water that brought the Moabites to their death.
In short, God’s judgment is never without salvation. And his salvation is never without judgment. From the flood of Noah to the end of time, we find salvation and judgment. And this week, we will see how Paul joins these two works of God in the cross of Christ.
In Colossians 1:20, Paul says that the blood of Christ’s cross is reconciling all of creation. And in what follows (1:21–2:23) he explains how that happens – through salvation and judgment. In these two chapters Paul identifies whom the cross saves and whom the cross judges. And for us, as we keep our eyes fixed on Christ, we will see how the cross has cosmic, as well as personal implications.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Colossians—it’s not long. On Sunday, we will start with Colossians 1:20 and then follow Paul’s twofold explanation of Christ’s cosmic reconciliation that relates to salvation and judgment.
I can’t wait to see you Sunday, as the Lord allows, and to worship the risen Christ with you.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Colossians 1-2
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How has the pattern of salvation and judgment been seen in the Bible? And how has that pattern helped you better understand the cross?
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In what ways does Paul speak of the cross in Colossians? And how do the creation themes relate to the cross?
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Look at Colossians 1:20. What does this verse not mean? (Hint: No universal salvation) And how do make sense of what it does mean? (Hint: keep reading the letter)
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Paul uses the word “reconciliation” in Colossians 1:20 and 1:22. This is the same word, but is it used in the same way? If not, why not? How do we know?
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According to Colossians 1–2, how does Christ reconcile the cosmos? Why does this matter?
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What does the cross do for God’s elect (Col. 3:9)? Where do we see that in the text? (Hint: 1:21–23; 2:11–14)
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What does the cross do for God’s enemies? Where do we see that in the text? (Hint: 2:15)
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What does penal substitution mean? What does Christus Victor mean? How do they relate? And how do they resonate with the storyline of salvation and judgment?
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How do we apply these two aspects of the cross? Look at 1:24–2:8 and 2:16–23.
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What else do you see in Colossians 1–2?
Know justice, know peace. No justice, no peace.
For the last few years, the theme of justice has filled America’s pulpits and public discourse. Yet, for all the attention given to it, there remains an insufficient understanding of this precious virtue. In Scripture, the God of justice, the righteous God of Israel, displays his justice in ways beyond his sending of prophets to decry Israel’s sin. Yes, the Old Testament has numerous prophets condemning Israel for their sins of injustice and idolatry. Just read Isaiah 5 or Amos 5. Yet, the prophets' main message centers on the coming messiah and the justice, make that the justification, that he will bring.
Indeed, justice apart from justification is a pronouncement of law without gospel. Not surprisingly, a world that does not know the grace of the gospel will call for justice based upon their fallen understandings of law. However, for Christians, when we speak of justice, we must begin with God and follow his Word until it brings us to Christ’s cross. For on the cross, we see justice and justification. And this Sunday we will learn from Paul in Romans 3:21–31 what justice truly looks like.
In preparation for Sunday, take time to read Romans 1–3. These chapters hang together and show us both our guilt before God and his grace in justifying sinners. This is the center of God’s gospel and the way that he brings justice into the world. Therefore, for Christians led by the Spirit and the Word, a call for justice is a call to seek the grace of God. And on Sunday, we will do just that.
As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and to worshiping the God of justice and justification!
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Romans 3:21-31 1. How is justice discussed today? In what ways is the rise of “justice-talk” helpful? Or unhelpful? 2. Where do we find the source and substance of justice? 3. What is the relationship between righteousness and justice? What are the ways Scripture talks about righteousness-justice? 4. How does Paul talk about justice in Romans 3:21–31? Why does it matter so much that Christians always connect justice to justification? 5. How did God reveal his righteousness? Was this revelation merely a display, or did this revelation do something? 6. What did the cross achieve, according to Romans 3:24–26? 7. Take time to talk about the three background images of these verses—the temple and altar (propitiation), the exodus/marketplace (redemption), and the law court (justification). How do these background images help us understand the cross? 8. What is the relationship between grace and faith, grace and justice, faith and justification? 9. How does Romans 3:21–31 help you know God? His Son? Your sin? Your salvation?
‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.’
There are few sentences in the Bible more important for understanding the cross of Christ. And this Sunday, we will examine this verse (Psalm 118:22) through the eyes of Jesus, who in Luke 20:9–18 concludes his parable of the wicked tenants by citing the words of Psalm 118.
For more than a month we have spent most of our time looking at the cross through the Old Testament. As Jesus said in John 5:39, all Scripture speaks of him. And so we have learned about the cross in the inspired words of Moses, David, and Isaiah.
But now, we turn to the New Testament, where we will continue to meditate on the meaning of Christ’s cross. And this Sunday, we will look at one of the last parables Jesus told as he moved toward the cross. This is parable not only preaches the cross and resurrection, but it recalls the fact that all humanity will rise or fall in response to Jesus. So in preparation for Sunday, let us read Luke 20 and pray for God to have mercy on us as we come to seek his mercy.
Additionally on Sunday, we will also have a time of prayer in the sanctuary during the Sunday School hour. If you have not joined us for Great Commission Prayer, please do. It is an important time of bringing our labors before the Lord who has sent us into his vineyard. Indeed, as we will discover in Luke 20, how God’s laborers respond to the Lord of the harvest is of the utmost importance. And during Sunday School this week, we have the privilege of asking God to bless the works of our hands. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Luke 20 1. Why did Jesus speak in parables? How did Jesus use the Old Testament in his parables? 2. Who were the cast of characters in his parable? 3. Why is it important to see who Jesus is talking about? And who he is talking to? 4. Why does his audience have such a hard time believing him? What does the people’s response to Jesus and their support of the reigning priests teach us? Who do we trust in times of cultural upheaval? 5. Why is it misleading to say “the Jews killed Jesus”? Who stood behind the death of Jesus? 6. And who stood behind the human opponents of Jesus? How does seeing the owner as the ultimate sovereign help us understand the cross? 7. How does this parable affirm the fact that Christ’s death brought judgment and salvation? Or even, salvation through judgment? 8. What does the final verse mean? How does this apply to you? In what ways do you need to reconsider the cross of Christ? To whom can you share it’s world-splitting message?
In the Old Testament, there a handful of passages that are critical for understanding Christ’s cross. Over the last few weeks, we have looked at many of them (Genesis 22, Exodus 12, Leviticus 16, and Psalm 22). And there are others, that this sermon series won’t cover (e.g., Numbers 21, Zechariah 9–14, etc.) But the most important passage in the Old Testament for learning what Christ’s cross achieved is Isaiah 53 (technically, Isaiah 52:13–53:12).
In this fifteen verse, five stanza “Servant song,” we are introduced to the One who will die for the sins of his people. In particular, he offers a guilt offering in the place of those who deserve God’s penalty of death.
In recent years, the idea of Christ’s penal substitution and God pouring out his wrath on the Son has not set well with many—both those inside the church and those outside the church, as well as those leaving the church. Indeed, with an appeal to God’s universal love, many have misunderstood why Christ’s death, as a penal substitute, is good news and necessary for salvation. Others have questioned how guilt can be transferred from one person, or one group, to another.
On Sunday we will tackle these questions head on as we look at Isaiah. By paying attention to the words of Isaiah, how they fit in Isaiah’s book and the whole Bible, we will see the goodness and glory of Christ’s penal substitution.
Come join us this Sunday as we look at this crucial chapter in the Old Testament. Please read Isaiah 53 to prepare your heart. And pray that God would be glorified as Christ is lifted up.
For Christ’s Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Isaiah 53
- Who is the Suffering Servant in Isaiah 53? And how do we know?
- What is the context of Isaiah 53? What comes before it? What comes after? How does context of Isaiah understand the chapter?
- How is Isaiah 53 laid out? Why is from glory to (greater) glory a good way to organize the 5 stanzas? What stands at the center?
- What do we learn about God’s purposes for his Servant in Isaiah 53? And what do we learn in vv. 4–6 that we could not learn by simply watching Christ’s death on the cross (or any movie depicting Christ’s death)?
- What is penal substitution and why does it matter? What questions remain about this important doctrine?
- Why do people object to penal substitution? How does Isaiah 53 (and other passages) answer those objections?
- In addition to the great exchange at the center of Isaiah 53 (vv. 4–6), what parts of Isaiah 53 are picked up and applied to Christ in the New Testament?
- What comfort or confidence in the Lord does Isaiah 53 give to you as you consider the cross of Christ?
Dear OBC Family,
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” As we hear these familiar words, we cannot help but think of our Lord’s sufferings at the cross. Yet, as Jesus cries out, he is pointing us to the words of David in Psalm 22.
As we continue in our series on the cross, this Sunday we will turn our attention to Psalm 22. We will consider David’s sufferings, how this psalm is fulfilled by Christ, and what this teaches us about the sufferings of our Lord.
I invite you to read Psalm 22 in advance of this Sunday, and consider how this Psalm speaks about suffering, deliverance, and all that is to come.
I look forward to gathering with you for worship this Lord’s day.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
Discussion and Response Questions for Psalm 22
- Where do you see the fulfillment of Psalm 22 in the cross of Christ?
- How do the Gospels teach us to read Psalm 22? (Jn 19:24; Lk 24:44)
- How does the author of Hebrews use Psalm 22 in speaking of Christ? (See Hebrews 2:12)
- Notice how the psalmist alternates between suffering and faith (vv. 1-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-11). What might we learn from this?
- How does Psalm 22 describe God?
- What does Christ’s suffering and victory accomplish according to Psalm 22?
- What might we learn from the concluding section of praise (vv. 22-31)?
- How does this psalm call us to respond? How ought we to respond to these truths?
Dear OBC Family,
As we continue our series on the cross, we will look at Mark 10:35-45. In this passage, Jesus states that he has come not to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many. This statement shows the self-understanding of Jesus that he is the Christ, the Messiah of God, who is the atoning sacrifice for sin. The term “ransom” or redemption means a price paid to free someone, like a slave or a prisoner of war. Jesus interprets his impending death on the cross as a substitutionary payment or sacrifice for his people. This understanding parallels the description of the suffering servant in Isaiah 53:10-12. Jesus Christ saw his role as Isaiah’s Servant of the Lord and his death on the cross as a sacrificial atonement for the sins of his people.
To prepare for Sunday, read Mark 10:35-45, as well as Isaiah 53. As you read, reflect on what Christ’s sacrifice as the suffering servant of the Lord on the cross means for the ransom of your soul if you are in Christ, especially considering Psalm 49:7-9. May these passages help us understand what Jesus accomplished on the cross to ransom us from sin and death.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday and to marveling with you at God’s grace in ransoming us through the sacrifice of the Servant of the Lord.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor Rod
Discussion & Response Questions for Mark 10:35-45
- What idolatry do you see underlying James and John’s request? What positive aspects (if any) do you see in their request?
- What do you want Jesus to do for you? How does this correspond or not correspond with what he has already done for you?
- How does Jesus’ response to them serve to instruct us? (vv. 38-40)
- Compare and contrast the response of Jesus to James and John with that of the other 10 disciples. What do we learn about how to disciple or encourage someone from Jesus’ response?
- Theologically, what is the nature of the ransom paid by the Son of Man?
- Why is a ransom necessary? What does the ransom accomplish? To whom is it paid?
- Discuss the following passages on ransom. What is being ransomed? What are the similarities and differences in when ransom can be made and when it cannot, as well as the differences in the ransom that is to be paid?
- Ex 13:12–13; Ex 30:11–16; Ex 34:20; Lev 27:1–33; Num 3:40–51; Num 18:14–17
- Ex 21:28–32
- Lev 25:25–28; Lev 25:47–55; Ruth 4:1–13; Prov 13:8
- Lev 27:9; Nu 35:31–32
- Ps 49:7-8; Ex 30:12-16; Job 33:24
- Isa 51:11, 40:2, 43:3-5; Jer 31:11; Hos 13:14
- Acts 20:28; 1 Tim 2:5–6; Tit 2:14; Heb 9:15; 2 Pet 2:1
- 1 Cor 6:19-20, 7:23; 1 Pet 1:18–19; Rev 5:9
- Reflect on the Son of Man’s service toward you in giving his life for your ransom. How should we respond to this reality?
Dear OBC Family,
Over the past few weeks, we have turned our eyes to the cross as we look through the Scriptures to see how they point us to Jesus and his finished work. The ram substituted for Isaac in Genesis 22, the Passover lamb of Exodus 12-13, and the Day of Atonement of Leviticus 16 all point us forward to Christ’s cross. Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the once-and-for all sacrifice, and the substitutionary atonement for our sins.
This Sunday we will consider a variation on this theme, as we consider Christ our Shepherd. We know what it is to go astray, to be where we should not be, and be entangled or ensnared in sin. Some of us are hungry, for we have chosen poor pastures, which sicken instead of nourishing our souls with truth. You may feel lost, threatened, harassed, or helpless.
Yet we have great hope, for God is our shepherd. This Sunday we will consider different moments in redemptive history throughout the Scriptures, and turn our eyes to Christ our Good Shepherd who laid down his life for his flock. He is our Shepherd-King, and he is the Shepherd-Lamb.
I invite you to read John 10:1-30 in advance of this Sunday, and join us as we gather for worship at 8:30 and 11:00am.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Ben
- How do you see God shepherding his covenant people throughout the Scriptures?
- What are the responsibilities of a shepherd?
- How do the shepherds of the Old Testament point forward to Christ (positively, and negatively)?
- What does it mean that Jesus is the Good Shepherd? How is Jesus better than the shepherds who came before him? How is Jesus the true answer to Moses’ prayer in Numbers 27:17?
- How does Jesus shepherd the church today?
- What promises are true for Christ’s sheep?
- How does Scripture instruct us in how to identify threats to the flock today? (False teachers, wolves, etc). What do they look like?
- What are the means by which God shepherds his people today, and how have you seen the Lord shepherd you?
- What is the significance of the change in language in Revelation (from shepherd to Lamb?)
- As a sheep in Christ’s flock, how should we respond to Christ’s shepherding?
At the center . . . of the center . . . of the center . . . of the law of Moses, we do not find law but gospel. What is the good news in the middle of the law of Moses? It is the promise in Leviticus 16:20–22 that your sins will be taken away. And this Sunday we will be looking at the Day of Atonement which holds forth the promise of this good news.
As we continue our series on the cross, we will look at the Leviticus 16. In this chapter, the Day of Atonement, which is the center piece of Israel’s religion, is revealed. And more than that, the center of our hope in Christ's finished work on the cross is also revealed in the Day of Atonement.
To prepare for Sunday, read Leviticus 16, as well as Hebrews 9. Together, these two chapters help us understand what Jesus accomplished on the cross and how God’s chief design for the law is the removal of all our sin, so that we can enter his presence through the priestly ministry of Christ.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday and to marveling with you at God’s grace in bringing sinners like us into holy presence.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion and Response Questions for Leviticus 16
- Before Sunday, how has the Day of Atonement played a role in your understanding of Christ’s cross?
- What is something you learned from Leviticus 16 that enriched your understanding or increased your thanksgiving?
- Where is Leviticus 16 located in the Law of Moses and the book of Leviticus? How does seeing the structure of the Pentateuch (Genesis–Deuteronomy) and the structure of Leviticus help you see the good news of the Law? Cf. 1 Timothy 1:8–11.
- Why does the Lord begin with a reference to Nadab and Abide (see Lev. 10) ? What did they do? And what does this teach us about approaching God?
- What role does the priest play in the Day of Atonement? How is Aaronic priest similar and different to Jesus? What do we learn about Christ’s death from the priestly actions?
- What are the two movements in the Day of Atonement? (Hint: They are associated with the two sacrifices) What does this teach us about Christ’s cross?
- What is the relationship between the Day of Atonement and the rest of the sacrificial system? How does that whole system relate to Christ?
- How does reading Leviticus with Hebrews help us understand the Day of Atonement? How does the Day of Atonement enlarge our view of Christ’s work on the cross and its cosmic implications?
- What other reflections or questions remain? How will the Day of Atonement help you read the New Testament going forward?
I once heard it said that the Passover instructions found in Exodus 12 are like planning a family reunion as your house burns down. Imagine the oddity—the absolute insanity!—of setting your children down at the kitchen table as flames engulf your house and telling them, “Get out your notebooks. I have a few things to say. At this time next year, we are going to gather our family to remember this event. We are going to eat a meal together that symbolizes this special occasion. And here are all the things you will need . . .”
Pretty strange stuff. But in the book of Exodus, this is exactly what you find. As the God of Israel prepares to deliver his people out of Egypt, and as the impending death of every firstborn son is bearing down on every family in the land, God not only gives Moses instructions for saving his people from death, but he also institutes a meal for families to remember this pivotal moment of God’s saving power. Such are the ways of God.
In Exodus 12, God not only saves his people, but he calls them to remember how they are saved. And this fall, we are looking intently at the cross of Christ for this very reason. God wants us to remember his great works. As Psalm 111:2 says, “Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.”
Truly, in the Old Testament, there is no greater work than the Exodus. There is no greater display of God’s mercy and judgment than the Passover. Thus, it is worth our time to study it. And we study it, not simply to see how God worked in history, but to see how this Passover foretold the greater Passover of Jesus Christ.
Indeed, 1 Corinthians 5:7 calls Jesus the Passover Lamb and throughout the New Testament Jesus is portrayed as God’s God-given sacrifice (see John 1:29 and Revelation 5:6, 8, 12, 13). Thus, we return to Exodus 12 this week to better understand how the Lamb of God died as a substitute to secure our salvation.
As you have time, read Exodus 12 in preparation. You might want to read John 19 again, too. Together these two chapters, plus a host of others, show us how this climactic moment in Israel’s history lead us to see Christ and his greater sacrifice.
I look forward to worshiping Christ with you this Sunday and pondering again the finished work of our glorious Lord. May God open our eyes to see the wisdom of the cross and the way it unites all of Scripture.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Exodus 12 1. What are the three sections of Exodus? How does knowing the outline of Exodus inform our salvation? 2. More specifically, what are some of types and shadows, patterns and promises found in Exodus that point us to Christ? 3. With respect to the Passover itself, what do we learn about God? Salvation? Christ? God’s people? 4. Why is “remembering” so important for God’s people? How does the Passover teach us about the importance of remembering? 5. Where does the New Testament teach us to remember? And how does Jesus connect the Passover feast to Christians remembering his cross? 6. In what ways do we find confirmation in the New Testament that Jesus is the Passover Lamb? 7. Why does it matter that we understand Christ’s death in terms of Old Testament promise? (Hint: The gospel is based upon fulfilled promises. See Acts 10:32–33; Romans 1:1–7; 1 Corinthians 15:1–8) 8. How does the focus on sacrifice and substitution strike you? Is this how you have understood Christ’s cross and your salvation? 9. How does rightly understanding the work of Christ on the cross purify and strengthen your faith? How does it impact your daily living and ethical choices? (Hint: 1 Corinthians 5:7 is set in the context of ethics). 10. What else did you learn about Christ and God’s gospel from studying Exodus 12?
God said what?
He told his servant Abraham to go and sacrifice his son, only son, Isaac, the one whom he loved.
And did he? Is that what God requires? Why would God do that? And why would Abraham obey? If the conversation about Genesis 22 is challenging, imagine how difficult the conversation between father and son was between aged Abraham and Isaac, his teenage son. As they walked for three days to the hill of the Lord:
Isaac: Father, where is the sacrifice?
Abraham: The Lord will provide, son.
And indeed, the Lord did provide—for Abraham, Isaac, Israel, and us!
In Genesis 22, we enter one of the richest passages in the Bible. Every verse says something to us about God, his demands on humanity, his provision for humanity, and the pathway of death that leads to life.
Indeed, if you are feeling tried and tested and on the verge of despair and death, Genesis 22 is for you. In looking at Genesis 22 this Sunday, we not only see an incredible moment in history, we also see a picture of what Christ’s cross accomplished and how we are to carry our cross in obedience to Jesus.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Genesis 22. Read it slow. Read it a few times. See what is there, and pray that God might speak to us this Sunday as we consider these words together. As God allows we will gather on Sunday at 8:30am and 11:00am to dig into this glorious passage.
May the Lord give us faith as we behold the way he provides salvation for those who trust in him.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Genesis 22
- Before this week, how have thought about this passage? Has it been a source of comfort? Concern? Something else?
- What does it mean that God tested Abraham? How is this unique to Abraham? And how is typical of all believers?
- What is the arrangement of the text? How does seeing the structure help you see the drama? Why is important to slow down to see the drama in Scripture?
- What are some of types and shadows that point to Christ? How do those types help us understand Christ’s cross?
- How do we know that the connections from Genesis 22 to Christ are legitimate? What if we don’t make those connections? What are some of New Testament texts that help us make those connections?
- What does Genesis 22 teach us about God and his provision?
- What does Genesis 22 teach us about the gospel?
- How does the experience of Abraham and Christ teach us to carry our cross? What does Genesis 22 teach us about discipleship?
- How are you being tested today? How does Genesis 22 bolster your faith? How can we pray for you?
This Sunday we begin a new sermon series entitled, “It is Finished: Beholding the Cross of Christ from All of Scripture.” And kicking off that series we will go to climactic chapter in John’s Gospel to see what John—and Jesus—had to say about his death on the cross.
Incredibly, Christ’s final declaration—It is finished!—does more than testify that Christ finished his work on earth. As we will see, it also bears witness to the finality of God’s revelation. In other words, Christ’s death on the cross not only secures our salvation; it also secures every promise that God ever made for our salvation.
With literary skill and gospel hope, John shows how countless promises from God lead to the cross. And following his lead, we will take time to see the many ways John connects the Old Testament to Jesus and Jesus to the promised work of salvation that begins in the beginning. Indeed, as John’s Gospel begins in Genesis, it ends with Genesis too. Jesus death on the cross—and his burial in a Garden—promise a new creation for all those who receive his life and trust in his sacrificial death.
This Sunday, we will explore John 19 and the many ways John proclaims the cross of Christ. In the weeks, to come, we will continue to behold the finished work of Christ by looking at both testaments. You can read about the sermon series here.
To prepare for Sunday, take time to read John 19. Marvel at what Christ did and consider all the ways that John draws lines of connection between the cross and the covenant promises of God. Please pray for our time together, that Christ would be lifted up, and that all who behold him will trust in him and become like him.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday—both at 8:30am and 11:00am.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for John 19:16–37
- When you think about the cross, what comes to mind? Where do you go to find passages that answer those questions? How do you understand it?
- Why is it important to consider the cross in connection with the whole Bible?
- In John’s gospel, what is being debated as Christ goes to the cross? How does John help answer the question of Jesus’s identity? How does Jesus' cross identify him?
- Jesus was crucified on a Roman cross, but Scripture does not spend much time describing the physical agony. Why is that? What does Scripture describe?
- How do the various passages of Scripture cited by John help you understand the cross? a. See Psalm 22:18 in John 19:24 b. See Psalm 69:21 in John 19:28 c. See Exodus 12:46 in John 19:36 d. See Zechariah 12:10 in John 19:37
- How does his application of the Old Testament to the cross give you confidence in God? His promises? Christ’s work on the cross?
- Speaking of Christ’s work. What has he finished on the cross? What does that say about the promise of salvation? What is left for you to do? (See John 19:35)
- In a world where life seems uncertain, work is often unfinished, and Satan steals, kills, and destroys (John 10:10), what good news is offered in Jesus death (and resurrection)?
- What else does looking at the cross do to strengthen your faith, hope, and love? Who can you tell about this good news?
Selection Sunday arrives every March, and sports fans eagerly fill out their college basketball brackets to try to pick the winners. In the history of what has become known as March Madness, no one has ever selected every winner of every NCAA tournament game.
This Sunday, our destination is Proverbs 9, which provides our own Selection Sunday. We see selections to accept an invitation to competing feasts, and invitations are extended to both. Which bracket will you choose? One invitation is to folly. The other invitation is to wisdom.
Easy selection? Which invitation does our deceitful heart wish to accept? Which does the world that surrounds us urge us to grasp? May the fear and admonition of the Lord, through His grace and mercy, empower our welcoming of the invitation to wisdom. That invitation leads us to Christ and his wisdom, and a banquet that is beautiful and eternal.
In preparation for our service this Sunday morning, outdoors at 8:30 am, read Proverbs 9. Invite neighbors, friends and family to come to OBC with you so they may also hear the Word of the Lord and the invitation to wisdom and Christ’s banquet. And pray for your OBC family and our time together.
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 9 1. Look at how Proverbs 9 is organized with two contrasting feasts and hostesses. Wisdom offers invitations to her feast (vv. 1-6), and Folly offers hers (vv. 13-18). What is central to this text, and why is that significant (vv. 7-12)? 2. Compare and contrast Wisdom (vv. 1-6) and Folly (vv. 13-18). What is similar and dissimilar? a. What is laid out for the guests? How is this different between feasts? b. What does each feast ultimately provide? c. Notice how the same group (the simple) are receiving both invitations. What does this reveal? d. What is noteworthy between the two invitations (vv. 4-6, 16-18)? e. How is this invitation communicated? What strategies are employed? 3. How does the center of this chapter (vv. 7-12) instruct us? What is the end of the scoffer and the wise? 4. Do you reprove/correct/instruct others? If so, how do you see this played out? (vv. 7-9) 5. How can one who is simple or a scoffer come to the fear of the LORD and knowledge of the Holy? How should we understand this in light of the gospel? 6. Consider the world’s macabre feast, and the feast that Christ offers us as He invites us to eat and drink of Himself. How should we respond?
1967 – The Summer of Love. The Beatles sang “All You Need is Love,” while the Mamas and the Papas sang their international hit “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair).” The Summer of Love was a time when “free sex,” drugs, and lots of rock ’n’ roll — the more mind-bending and psychedelic the better — fueled an idealistic Utopian vision for world peace, love, and anti-materialism. It was a time when Harvard University professor-turned-LSD-guru Timothy Leary urged disaffected young people to question authority, reject straight society and “turn on, tune in and drop out.”
It has blossomed in the first quarter of the 21st century into the cult of the modern self. Your identity is what you determine it to be. Gender is fluid. Sex is no longer confined to an intimate marriage relationship between a (biological) man and a (biological) woman. Authority is rejected as authoritarianism. Restraint and self-control are repression and oppression.
As we have emphasized throughout our summer series from Proverbs 1–9, wisdom from God in his Word is not just a theory. Our Bible text this week, Proverbs 6:20–7:27, continues the theme of embracing the Word of God as the way of wisdom and life, while rejection of his authority is sin and folly and leads to death and destruction. This week we will look at another warning given to avoid sexual sin. This warning is illustrated through a parable that dramatically illustrates for us the folly of sexual immorality. We need this wisdom; we need the one who is wisdom to not be deceived by peer pressure or the culture around us. By the mercy of Christ, we can avoid being simpletons seduced by the culture or those around us to yield to the seductress. In Christ we can live a brighter, more loving, more fruitful life to the glory of God.
In Christ alone,
Pastor Rod
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 6:20-7:27
- List, compare, and contrast the qualities or characteristics of the two women in chapters 6 and 7, Wisdom and the Seductress.
- How does the teaching of Proverbs about sexual purity and marriage compare with the teachings of Paul (1 Cor. 7) and Jesus (Matt. 5:27–30)?
- What is the role of the family in sex education? How should parents go about teaching their children about sex (see 5:1; 6:20; 7:1)?
- How can Wisdom protect you from sexual immorality?
- Why is Wisdom more important than a husband or wife?
- Contrast the way in which the Bible speaks about human sexuality with the way in which sexual matters are portrayed in worldly media.
- How does knowing you have a place in the final marriage supper of the lamb (Revelation 19:6–10) empower you to say no to sexual temptation today?
Questions for Self-Examination: 8. Is what you are doing with respect to sexual thoughts and actions simply wrong? Do you sexualize or lust after people you know are forbidden? 9. Are you captivated by sex? Are you driven by it, obsessing about it? Do you find yourself acting impulsively or compulsively with respect to sex? 10. Do you hide what you are doing? Have you created a secret garden of sexual sin? Do you use sex as a refuge from boredom, stress, loneliness, or pain? 11. If you are tempted or ensnared, how will you bring these things to light? What brother in Christ (if you are a man) or sister in Christ (if you are a woman) can you confess your sin and seek their prayer and counsel?
Wisdom isn't just a theory. At some point the rubber needs to meet the road. Our Bible text this week, Proverbs 6:1-19, gives us three lessons of how wisdom -- or lack thereof -- plays out in real life. We'll look at three people: a person who makes bad decisions, a person driven by sloth, and a person for whom evil swirls around. Is there any hope for a lack of wisdom? Don't even think about sleeping in this Sunday!
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 6:1-19
- How would you summarize Proverbs 6:1-19? What are main themes of Solomon’s instruction?
- Consider vv. 1-5. What is Solomon warning his son away from?
- What does financial wisdom look like in light of the ant? How do you teach your children to have a good work ethic and financial wisdom? What did your parents teach you?
- How might Solomon’s instruction shape one’s work ethic and financial relationships?
- What differences and parallels do you see between the sluggard (vv. 9-11) and the wicked man (vv. 12-15)?
- What should we learn from the hatred of the Lord? How ought these warnings shape our actions and our associations?
- There are many snares in life (vv. 1-19). What does it look like to guard our way while still loving our neighbor?
- How should we relate to the sluggard and the wicked (vv. 9-19)?
- How does the gospel meet those who have been hurt by these snares?
We live in a hyper-sexualized world that unknowingly revels in its self-destruction. As we consider the dangers of our time, how might parents teach their children to guard their paths and find joy in marriage?
This Sunday as we continue in our Proverbs series, we will consider how Solomon instructed his son to guard his path. There are countless ways we can go astray, yet there is one path of life. We have a great need for the gospel in our marriages, and for God’s Word to shepherd our hearts.
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 5
- Consider Solomon’s first word of instruction to his son (vv. 1-6). What must he keep and guard with his lips, and how does this contrast with the forbidden/foreign woman’s lips? (vv. 1-2)
- What do verses 3-4 teach us about the nature of temptation? Where else do we see this pattern in Scripture?
- Do you want to go with the forbidden woman? Why not? Why would someone still go with her after hearing Solomon’s teaching?
- Consider Solomon’s second word of instruction (vv. 7-14). Why is distance so important (vv. 7-8)? How do we apply these teachings today in 2021?
- How does Solomon describe the consequences of adultery (vv. 9-14)? What does this mean under the Law of Moses (Lev 20:10)?
- What are the implications for kings and the nation (Deut 17:17; 2 Sam 7:12-15; Prov 31:3; 2 Sam 12:10, Neh 13:26)?
- What happens to Solomon and the nation because of his sin (1 Kings 11:1-13, 14, 23)?
- Consider Solomon’s teaching on marital faithfulness (vv. 15-23), and read Solomon’s psalms (Ps 127-128). How would you describe the joy and blessing of covenant faithfulness?
- How does faithful covenant keeping in marriage reflect the beauty of the gospel and glorify God?
- How should the reality that all of life is Coram Deo (before the face of God) impact the way we walk? (v. 21)
- How does the New Covenant and the gospel speak to those who are guilty of sexual sin? (1 Cor 5:1-13; 6:9-20; 2 Cor 2:5-11)
- What might parents learn from Solomon’s instruction in how to disciple and instruct their children?
So, you are on the road of wisdom… Now what? This Sunday we will examine how King Solomon’s repeated appeals to his son to “pay attention” do not stop after his advice to “find the path of wisdom” is received. The emphasis in chapter 4 changes from “find” the path, to “Stay on” the path. What is the difference between knowledge, wisdom, and sight? Do they mean the same thing? Do you need one before you can get the other? Our text this week will shine a light on how these things can work together in our lives to keep us going straight on the path of life, avoiding the detours that lead away from the light and into the darkness.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor Jeff
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 4
- Do you see the three sections of instruction in Proverbs 4 (vv. 1-9, 10-19, 20-27)? How would you summarize these words of instruction?
- What does Solomon teach about how his father David instructed him? (vv. 3-9) How might this instruct us for how we disciple our children?
- How have these things (vv. 3-9) come to pass in Solomon’s life? How do these things not come to pass in Rehoboam’s life?
- In looking at the second instruction (vv. 10-19), how would you compare and contrast the path of the righteous vs the way of the wicked?
- What does it look like to teach and to lead your children in the path of righteousness?
- In considering the third instruction (vv. 20-27), notice how Solomon speaks holistically about the ears, heart, mouth, eyes, and feet. Why speak in these different ways?
- What is distinct and unique about the heart?
- How does Jesus speak of the path that leads to life? (Matthew 7:13-14).
- What gospel realities do you see in Proverbs 4?
What will keep you from shipwrecking your life?
As blunt and discomforting as that question may be, it is better to know the pitfalls of life and how to stay on the path of wisdom, righteousness, and life. Ignoring life’s dangers, especially the threat of divine judgment, is a path to unspeakable sorrow and eternal loss. Therefore, the wise will listen to words that promise life and protection from ruin.
To the end of seeking eternal life, this Sunday we will learn how God’s Wisdom protects us from malicious men and wicked women here and now. At the same time, Proverbs 2 will show us how to avoid becoming malicious enemies of God and inviting his eternal judgment. Indeed, lest we think that a little education and a lot of hardwork will make us good people and secure a place for us in heaven, Proverbs has a different perspective.
And as we look at Proverbs 2 this Lord’s Day, we will learn that such life-giving wisdom is something we must seek and something God must give. For without such grace-empowered seeking, we will all make shipwreck of our lives. But thankfully, that path of death is not inevitable. Rather, in Christ, there is a way that leads to life. It is not hidden or mysterious. Rather, it is spoken plainly in Scripture, and this Sunday we will consider this truth.
To prepare for Sunday, please take time to read Proverbs 2, as well as Job 28. Together, these two chapters teach where wisdom comes from and why true wisdom is only found in the Lord.
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday and to meditating of the wisdom of God, which he has given to us in his Word and in the Word made flesh.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 2
- What role do we play in finding wisdom (vv. 1–5)? How are we called to search for Wisdom?
- What role does God play in granting wisdom (vv. 6–11)?
- What effect does seeking and finding wisdom have on our lives (vv. 12–19)?
- Conversely, if we don’t find wisdom, what results will that have in our lives?
- Why does the Father deliverance from men and women (vv. 12, 16)? What does that teach us about living wisely and walking in righteousness?
- What is the ultimate result of applying this wisdom (vv. 20–22)? What if we don’t listen to this counsel?
- Practically, how do you make sure you are walking in wisdom? What counselors are you listening to?
- Do you let people challenge your actions / decisions? If not, why not? What happens to people who refuse godly counsel?
- How do you make decisions in your lives? In what ways do you see elders and fellow church members as counselors?
- Finally, what does Proverbs 2 have to say to the person who have made shipwreck of their life? Is there hope for him? How? Where?
A father’s wise correction and Lady Wisdom’s sobering invitation. We need both. And this Sunday we will see both.
As we enter into the body of the Prologue of Proverbs, we will find two voices that repeat throughout the first nine chapters. The first voice is that of the father, who with his wife, are warning us to wake up and watch out for the tricksters and traps of this world. The other voice is that of Lady Wisdom, or wisdom personified. In Proverbs 1, we find her calling out in the city streets inviting the gullible to forsake their folly and to find life in Wisdom’s shelter.
To walk wisely with Christ and to avoid the death traps of this world, we need to hear both voices and to follow their lead. This Sunday, we will do just that as we see the wisdom they offer for this and the next. Come join us at 8:30am and 11:00am, as our weather looks to take us inside. And in preparation please take time to read Proverbs 1, praying that God would give us wisdom.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 1:8-33
- Three times in this passage, a “son” is addressed (vv. 8, 10, 15)? And in one verse (v. 8), a father and mother are identified, but later it is typically the father. How should we understand and apply these gender specific identifications?
- Consider Solomon’s call for his son to listen (vv. 8-9). How is a child adorned by hearing and keeping the instruction and teaching of parents?
- What does Solomon’s warning to his son (vv. 10-19) teach about the nature of greed and unjust gain?
- How is this instruction different from the moralism of “don’t do that”? What are the “why’s” and “how’s” offered by the father?
- In verses 20-33, Solomon presents a personification of Wisdom. What do we learn from this way of speaking?
- What does Wisdom offer? What does Wisdom warn?
- Why do some ignore Wisdom? How does Wisdom further the divide in humanity?
- Consider verses 31-33 in light of Genesis 3 and Romans 1. What does it mean for one to “eat the fruit of one’s way”?
- What gospel connections do you see in this passage? Consider also Matthew 7:24-27 and Hebrews 12:1–18.
Proverbs. It is a book that is both eminently familiar and overwhelmingly foreign.
While individual verses come to mind, verses like, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding . . .” (Proverbs 3:5), I suspect most of us have not considered the book as a whole. What is the message of Proverbs? How should we read it? Is it just list of helpful tips for living? Or does it reveal to us the very wisdom of God? How should we study a book that holds so many disparate words of wisdom? And is it possible to preach the book verse-by-verse?
On Sunday we will begin to answer some of these questions, as we enter a new sermon series. From now until Fall, we will spend the summer focusing on Proverbs 1–9. What is sometimes called the Prologue to the Proverbs, we will consider the wisdom that God has for us in these chapters. Tackling topics like sex, money, righteousness, relationships, parenting, and work, we will discover what God’s wisdom looks like and how we all can grow in wisdom.
To prepare for Sunday, please read Proverbs 1 as well as our introductory blog post. Let us pray that God gives us wisdom and conforms us into the image of Christ through our study of Proverbs 1–9. Sunday, we will begin by looking at Proverbs 1:1–7. May the Lord teach us to fear him and to walk in his ways.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Proverbs 1:1-7
- As you come to the book of Proverbs, what are your general impressions of the book? How have you read it? How has it informed your Christian life?
- Who wrote the book of Proverbs? And why does that matter?
- Who is Proverbs is for? How should we read it?
- Who are the two audiences that we find in verses 1:3–6? And how does knowing those two audiences inform our reading?
- What is the fear of the Lord? And how do we grow in the fear of the Lord?
- How does this book apply to the original audience? To Christ? And to us?
- How does knowing the various stages of interpretation help us resolve problems in the text?
- After studying the first seven verses of the book, how might your approach change to the book of Proverbs?
- What are you most excited about / interested in as we begin this new sermon series?
In John 1:14–18, the beloved apostle describes the grace of the law and the greater grace of the gospel as “grace upon grace". And in his opening words to his Gospel, he explains that grace and truth are now found in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Lord Incarnate. At the end of Peter’s letter, the same emphasis on grace is seen. Only the largesse of God’s grace is not found in redemptive history, but in the church’s personal experience of grace.
Throughout Peter’s letter, the restored apostle has testified to the true grace of God that is found ready to aid all those who are born again by the Spirit. Even more, Peter has explained the sufferings of Christ’s followers in terms of the sanctifying grace that accompanies such fiery trials. Knowing this grace strengthens believers to follow Christ fully. And this Sunday, as we come to the end of 1 Peter, we will conclude our sermon series by considering all that Peter says about grace in 1 Peter 5:5–14.
As you have time, please read 1 Peter 5 to prepare for Sunday. You may also find help in reading James 4 or Proverbs 3 in preparation for worship. Pray that God would continue to lavish his grace upon us, as we cast our cares on him and find fresh mercies to follow him fully.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday and to worshiping the true God of grace with you.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 5:5-14 1. Why should humility be a distinctive mark of the church? 2. How is humility to appear in our relationship to elders, to one another, and to God? (vv. 5-7) 3. The Greek word for “opposes” (v. 5) and “resist” (v. 9) is identical. What does this teach us about humility, pride, and spiritual warfare? 4. How are prayerfulness (v. 7) and faith (v. 9) connected to humility? 5. What is the role of humility when it comes to resisting the devil? 6. What truths should the church remember when they suffer persection? 7. What promises and words of encouragement and assurance does Peter give to the church? (vv. 5, 6, 7, 10) 8. Look for the repetition of grace in this text (vv. 5, 10, 12). How does this instruct us? 9. Practically, what does it look like to stand firm in the gospel? How might we grow in standing firm? 10. How might this text shape our resolve as Christians?
Forbes Magazine lists 100 Quotes on Leadership. When bookstores used to be brick and mortar, you could always find a leadership section. And aspiring leaders may spend (tens of) thousands of dollars each year on coaching, conferences, and other ways to become better leaders.
In the Bible, we also find a lot about leadership. But what we don’t find are leadership techniques. Instead, we find offices like prophet, priest, king, and shepherd. We discover that the greatest leader laid his life down for those whom he loved. And in Christ and those who followed him, we are given a vision of what a leader is. We also find many examples of bad leaders too.
Simultaneously, in both testaments, we find lists of qualifications for leaders (see Exodus 18, Deuteronomy 17–18; 1 Timothy 3; and Titus 1). These lists are always based on character, and if anyone wants to be a leader in the church, they must look to God’s standards.
This Sunday, we will do just that. Writing to a suffering church, Peter addresses the lead sufferers, the shepherds who are leading the sheep. In less than five verses, we will discover in 1 Peter 5:1–5, a host of characteristics that you should recognize in those who lead the church. And current and aspiring leaders should be able to test themselves by these verses too.
To prepare for Sunday, please read 1 Peter 5. You will also be helped if you read Ezekiel 34 and John 10. These two background passages will give you the biblical context for Peter’s words, as they show what a good shepherd is and is not.
After spending a week with a flock of shepherds at the SBC this week, I am glad to be with you and to be one of your shepherds. It is one of the greatest joys in my life. And as we come to the text of 1 Peter 5, let us pray that the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, will continue to shepherd us as we hear his voice and follow his lead.
See you Sunday (DV).
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 5:1-5
- What is significant about how Peter describes his identity? How does this set the tone for this exhortation?
- How does Peter describe the work of an elder?
- What qualifications does Peter give for the motives of elders in their ministry?
- What is the difference between an elder, a shepherd, and an overseer? What nuances do these words give in describing the same office?
- “that is among you.” What does this say about the work of shepherding?
- How does willingness, eagerness, and living as an example bless the flock?
- What are some of the differences between a good shepherd and a not-so-good shepherd? (See also Ezekiel 34 and John 10)
- How do wrong motives distort the work of pastoral ministry and damage the church?
- How does Peter describe Christ?
- What is the elders’ responsibility to Christ?
- What does this text reveal about hierarchical relationships in the church?
- What exhortation does Peter give to the congregation? What exhortation and caution does Peter give to both the elders and the congregation?
- How should we respond to God’s design for the church?
- How should we respond to these promises of grace and glory?
Chicken little said the sky is falling and it seems many Christians say the same when they think about current events and the end of the world. But is that how the Bible speaks about the end of the world?
This Sunday we will consider the end of the world and the grace of God which purifies us through the fiery trials that God has prepared for us. As you prepare for Sunday, take time to read 1 Peter 4:12-19. But also read over 1 Peter and consider the ways Peter talks about the end. This will help you to see what we all will see in 1 Peter 4:12-19 this Sunday.
As I write this from Indianapolis where I am teaching eschatology, I can’t wait to get home and worship our risen Lord with you. May the exalted Christ be praised in our assembling.
For His glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 4:12-19 1. Does persecution and suffering seem like a stranger to you? Instead of being surprised by sufferings, what does it look like for us to be surprised by joy? 2. Does rejoicing, gladness, and blessing come to mind when facing suffering? 3. How does Peter reassure and encourage the church? 4. Consider Peter’s command to glorify God (v. 16). Might one be tempted to be ashamed? See Acts 5:40-42. 5. What does it mean that judgment begins at the house of God? Why does Peter insert this warning? (vv. 17-19) How should we respond to this? 6. What does it mean to “obey the gospel of God”? 7. How does Peter teach them to suffer (v. 19)? What is the sufferer to do? Consider Psalm 31:5; Luke 23:46.
This Sunday we continue our study in 1 Peter where Peter points us to a living heavenly hope. Earlier in his life we have recorded an account of a young man who was anxious for Christ to establish a physical kingdom of God that would overthrow human government, end suffering, and rule victorious. In his impetuous zeal that lacked knowledge he even rebuked Christ himself when Christ spoke clearly about the need for his suffering and death. In these last days, and the nearing end of Peter’s life on earth, Peter writes with a different perspective. He writes about our heavenly hope in the kingdom of God, a kingdom that will come after the suffering of saints for their faith.
In response to the suffering that must come, Peter sets forth rules for life – a Christian ethic for living in light of suffering. In returning to the theme of Christ’s suffering that we saw in chapter 3, Peter presents suffering not as an exception, but as the rule for true believers. Peter directs the elect exiles, which includes us, to see the suffering and death of Jesus Christ as the pattern for Christian living and service. The suffering Peter describes is for a purpose – being done with sin. This man who rebuked Christ, then denied him, now exhorts us to arm ourselves not with a sword, but with the same mind-set that Christ had in doing the Father’s will. Peter was changed because he came to know and trust Jesus Christ. May Peter’s words written through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit be used to open our eyes that we would know Jesus in this same way so that in everything God may be glorified through Christ Jesus.
As you prepare for Sunday, take time to read over 1 Peter 3-4 again and pray for God to continue to conform our church body into the image of Christ by changing the way we think.
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. And remember, we will plan to gather outside at 8:30am for service and 10:30am for Great Commission Prayer.
For God’s glory and your joy, Pastor Rod
Discussion & Response Questions 1 Peter 4:1-11 1. What does it mean for us to “arm yourselves with the same way of thinking” (v.1)? 2. How does Christ’s suffering reorient us (vv. 1-2)? 3. What does Peter teach about the purpose of life? How does this contrast with unbelievers? 4. While God’s judgment is in view for the Gentiles (vv. 3-5), what is in view for the Christian? (vv. 6-7)? 5. Does “the end of all things” being at hand motivate you? What should it motivate us toward? 6. Do you think of prayer as a primary response to loving and serving the Lord? How would arming yourself with the same way of thinking as Christ change your approach to and practice of prayer? (v. 7) 7. What does it mean practically for each of us individually and collectively to be self-controlled and sober-minded? (v. 7) 8. How does Peter explain what it means to “love one another earnestly”? (vv. 8-11) 9. Have you been gifted? For what purpose are you gifted? (Notice the source of the oracles and strength). 10. Is the glory of God our aim? How does one become passionate or zealous for the glory of God?
Suffering. Salvation. Scripture. Sacraments. Security.
This Sunday, we will see all of these important things in our passage. In 1 Peter 3:18–22, the Apostle Peter returns to the theme of Christ’s death and resurrection. Like before, in 1 Peter 2:22–25, Peter encourages suffering saints to look to the finished work Christ. Only now, it is not Jesus life that is in view, but his resurrection and exaltation.
Even more, Peter makes an analogy between the experience of suffering saints and the baptism of Noah in the flood. Throw in a final promise of Christ’s triumph over the angels, and you have in five verses a full scale declaration of the victory that Christ won on the cross and that secures believers today.
On Sunday, we will focus on this victory and how it encourages believers to keep the faith amidst ongoing threats and trials.
In preparation for Sunday, please read 1 Peter 3:18–22. Pray for yourself and for all who gather on Sunday that God would be glorified and that faith would be granted and strengthened. I look forward to seeing you then (DV).
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 3:18-22 1. What makes this passage difficult? How have you understood (or not understood) this passage before? 2. When you come to difficult passages, what do you do? 3. How does it fit into the letter of Peter? How does knowing the context help you understand its point? 4. What does this text teach us about Christ’s . . . sufferings death resurrection ascension exaltation 5. What are some of the different interpretations of who the “spirits in prison” are, and what Christ is proclaiming to them? Which view makes the most sense to you, and why? 6. What is the correspondence between baptism and Noah? 7. How is baptism related to our salvation? 8. How should we respond to the work of Christ? 9. How should we respond to the exaltation of Christ?
The book of 1 Peter is written for Christians who are experiencing, or who will soon experience, hardships, trials, and suffering. In the context of the book, suffering is a theme that Peter confronts with great gospel grace. And this Sunday we return to this theme.
After giving instructions on how to live a gracious life in the midst of a variety of household relationships (1 Peter 2:13–3:7), Peter now turns to encourage all those in the church to bless others and to live a life that receives God’s blessing.
This Sunday, we will consider both what a blessed life looks like and how the Lord might establish you in such blessing. In preparation for Sunday, take time to read 1 Peter 3:8–17. Pray that God would strengthen our hearts with grace and that we would learn how to continue to be gracious to one another and to those who treat us unfairly and unkindly.
I hope to see you Sunday as we gather outside at 8:30am to worship King Jesus.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 3:8-17 1. How does Peter’s instruction to “all of you” in verses 8-9 conclude the previous section? 2. Why does our disposition when facing suffering matter? How does this connect back to 1 Peter 2:23? 3. Why does Peter quote Psalm 34:12-16 in verses 10-12? How does his use of Psalm 34 teach us to read the OT? 4. How is Peter preparing them for suffering? What encouragement and counsel does he offer? 5. Why does the condition of the heart matter? (vv. 8, 15) What does it mean to honor Christ the Lord as holy in your heart? 6. How does vv. 16-17 connect back to 2:12, 15, 20? 7. Is it easy to fear and be troubled when suffering? What gospel truths do you need to override fear and anxiety? 8. Do you think of blessing, gospel opportunity, and God’s will, when experiencing suffering? How might this text help us prepare for suffering?
On Sunday we will finish our two-part series on the roles of wives and husbands in marriage. If you missed last week’s message, you can listen here, as it provides a set up for 1 Peter 3:7.
This week, we will devote our time to Peter's instructions to husbands. Though, he only gives one verse to husbands, Peter's theologically informed instructions will give us — especially husbands — much to consider and apply to bless and serve our wives.
As you prepare for Sunday, take time to read over 1 Peter 2–3 again and pray for God to continue to conform our church body into the image of Christ.
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. And remember, we will plan to gather outside at 8:30am for service and 10:30am for Sunday School.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 3:7
- What does it mean for husbands to live with their wives in an understanding way? How does “according to knowledge”flesh out that instruction?
- Notice the honor that is due to the wife (3:7). Consider also the honor that is commanded in 2:17. What basis does Peter give for this honor?
- How should “weaker vessel” be read and understood? How could this be misused?
- How should 1 Peter shape your view of marriage?
- What is the grace of life? Why is it gracious? What does this reveal about God?
- How should being co-heirs of grace shape the relationship between a husband and his wife?
- If the honor given to a wife is an affirmation of her identity as a recipient of God’s grace, what distortion is brought into marriage when a husband dishonors his wife?
- How is the husband’s relationship to his wife connected to the reception of his / their prayers? How should we understand the relationship of our sins to our prayers?
- Where is the good news in these verses (1 Peter 3:1–7)? How does marriage function as a representation of the gospel?
First Peter 2:21 says, "For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.” This verse is set in the middle of a section of 1 Peter that addresses various institutions in the world. So far we have considered government and work. And now we will think about marriage.
In 1 Peter 3:1–7 we find a vision for what godly women and men look like. And critically, this vision of marriage is one that stands in stark contrast to the wisdom and habits of the world. By contrast, Peter draws us to consider Christ and the rest of Scripture to understand our roles in marriage.
Such practical wisdom is deeply helpful for those who are married, but it also serves everyone (married, single, divorced, or widowed), because marriage is not just a private enterprise for some. Rather, marriage is for the beautification of the cosmos, and hence it applies to everyone. And learning about marriage will help you both now and for eternity.
To prepare yourself for Sunday, please read 1 Peter 3:1–7 and pray God would give us ears to hear and hearts to cherish what his word says. The institution of marriage is under threat today, and we need God to graciously restore our vision of its goodness and glory.
See you Sunday, DV.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 3:1-7 1. Why are passages like 1 Peter 3:1–7 so challenging for us today? Why are they so controversial? 2. What are the instructions for the woman in this passage? How should 1 Peter 2:13’s “for the Lord’s sake” shape the wife’s submission to her husband? 3. What are ways that the believing wife might win her unbelieving husband to the gospel? 4. Consider that which is imperishable, beautiful, and precious to God (see 3:4). How does this connect to 1 Peter 2:4? What about 1 Peter 1:18-19? 5. How does Sarah’s example (vv. 5-6) serve to explain his teaching (vv. 1-4)? 6. What is the difference between egalitarian and complementarian views of marriage? How should 1 Peter shape your view of marriage? 7. According to Scripture, what does a true, good, and beautiful marriage look like? How does this passage relate to / apply to singles?
This Sunday in 1 Peter we will continue to study relationships under the Lordship of Christ, and we will study Peter's words of instruction to servants in 1 Peter 2:18-25.
As we consider this text, we will examine the significant differences between today and first century household law of the first century, and how the sufferings of Christ give us a pattern to follow when we suffer for the sake of righteousness.
Discussion & Response Questions 1 Peter 2:18-25
- How does the Lordship of Christ and the Christian's identity as a God's servant shape one's subjection to masters?
- What are some of the key differences between first century household law and our present day?
- Can you think of any biblical examples where servants had to navigate ethical dilemmas in order to obey God?
- What can we infer about the unjust suffering Peter describes in 1 Peter 2:19-20? What does this reveal about the Lordship of Christ and the Christian's freedom?
- Consider the shape of the passage, and its repetition of "this is a gracious thing" (vv. 19-20). What does this mean?
- The suffering servant is to be mindful of God (v. 19), knowing that God sees (v. 20). How can one be mindful of God during suffering? Why is this important?
- Have you faced ethical dilemmas at work where you have had to choose between your employer's directions and corporate policy versus God's commands? What does it look like to hold to the supremacy of Christ?
- How might you encourage and counsel those facing hardship under their employers?
- What is your expectation when it comes to suffering? Do you expect to suffer for Christ?
- What implications does Christ's suffering (and his response to it) have for our sufferings?
- What do verses 22-25 teach us about Christ's work at the cross? How should we understand this healing (v. 24)?
Dear OBC Family,
“Submit to government. Live as people who are free. Love the fellowship. Fear God.” How do these fit together, and what does it look like for us to be faithful as servants of the Lord? This Sunday we will consider the Lordship of Christ, our temporary status as sojourners and exiles, and the Christian’s relationship to church and state.
Sunday’s worship services will be indoors at 8:30 and 11:00am, and Sunday School and Discover OBC will meet at 10:00am.
I look forward to seeing you then. May the Lord be glorified in our church family!
Pastor Ben
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 2:11-17
- How does the Christian’s status as a sojourner and exile relate to the Lordship of Christ and submission to human government?
- Consider the apostle Peter’s life and ministry. In what ways did he live out submission to government?
- How is the Lordship of Christ the basis for our submission to others?
- What responsibility is given to government? What does submission look like? (2:14, 20; 4:15)
- What is the intended effect of honorable conduct and righteous living (2:12, 15)? Is it possible to live in such a way that one does not suffer persecution? (2:12, 15; 3:13-7; 4:3-5, 12-14)
- How is the fear of God distinct from the honor due to human government?
- Notice Peter’s emphasis on loving the “brotherhood” (our fellowship as brothers and sisters in Christ). How is this related to the other imperatives of verse 17?
- How does being a servant connect with the freedom we have in Christ? What is this freedom for? Do you consider yourself to be a servant of God (v. 16)? Why or why not?
- How should the gospel shape our submission to government, our love for the church, and our fear of God?
Every Sunday we gather to celebrate the Lord’s resurrection. Sunday is the Lord’s Day because Jesus rose from the grave on the first day of the week. Instead of working six days to get one day of rest, as under the old covenant, the new covenant begins the week with resurrection and rest in Christ. The six days of our work week proceed from Christ’s finished work.
Still, on the Christian calendar, this Sunday is the day when we celebrate the culmination of Holy Week. Friday remembers the death of Christ, and tonight we will gather at 7:00pm to celebrate Good Friday. Saturday remembers Christ’s burial and the sense of loss that stood between the cross and resurrection. And finally, Sunday celebrates the cosmos-shattering, justification-granting resurrection—what is often called Easter.
This Sunday we will gather outside to proclaim out loud and in public that Jesus is Alive. He has risen from the dead. He is risen indeed. And he is worthy of our gathered worship.
If you remember, last Easter we did not gather. Still assessing the situation of COVID-19 we sheltered at home and celebrated independently. But this year, as COVID and fear of COVID continue to rise and fall around us, we will gather on Sunday to celebrate the only vaccine for death—the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Outside, at 10:00am, we will sing songs, read Scripture, pray, celebrate three baptisms, hear Scripture preached, take communion, and sing more songs. Truly, we have a wonderful God who deserves everlasting worship. And Sunday we will gather to proclaim this together.
In preparation, please pray for our service and those friends, family, and guests who have been invited. Take time to read the events of Holy Week—Mark 11–16 is a good place to begin. And on Sunday, come early and bring your camping chairs.
We expect a good number of visitors, so if you can arrive in one car (instead of three), please do so. Additionally, there will be some parking down Springwoods, so consider dropping off family and then parking to leave space for others in our parking lot. Last thing: sunglasses, warm clothes, a bottle of water, and allergy medicine might all be helpful for you as we return to service outdoors. (FYI: After Easter, we will continue inside until the month of May).
For this Sunday, I am super excited to rejoin you outside. May God be pleased to give us great weather that matches the great and gracious gospel of Jesus Christ. For indeed, his gospel is great and on Sunday we will extol the greatness of his grace and truth. I hope to see you then.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions 1 Peter and the Resurrection of Christ
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What does 1 Peter teach us about the resurrection (see 1:3–5, 23–25; 2:6–8; 3:21–22)?
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Does Peter speak directly about the resurrection or does he include the resurrection into other discussions? If the latter, what does that teach us about the resurrection and its place in our lives and conversations?
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How did God bring about the cross of Christ? What do you learn about God by considering the resurrection in eternity and time?
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What are ways the resurrection changed the world (think cosmic powers and redemptive history)? Why is it important to understand the cross and resurrection in the story of the world before making a personal application?
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What are ways the resurrection changed your life? What is most encouraging to you as you think about Christ’s resurrection?
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If the resurrection did not occur, would it still be worth living the Christian life? Why or why not?
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How does suffering and persecution increase our appreciation for the resurrection? Why is the resurrection necessary for obedience—especially in the face of opposition?
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What other truths in 1 Peter 1–2 have encouraged you recently?
When Christ entered Jerusalem, many cheered and many others jeered. And ever since his triumphal entry, he has divided humanity by means of his gospel of grace.
This Sunday we will consider the way Christ splits humanity and how to find our identity in him. In 1 Peter 2:1-12 we find a whole heap of identity markers for Christians along with instructions for living as children of God, living stones, and holy priests.
In preparation for Sunday, read 1 Peter 2 and pray for God to strengthen us in our identity in Christ such that we can proclaim his excellencies even with great opposition to Christ. For as we will see, Christ’s enemies still exist today and we are called to love them, such that they might be brought from darkness and death to life. And this is all for the glory of the one who loves us!
May God have mercy on us all as we gather to worship him this Sunday.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 2:1-12 1. How does 2:1-3 connect with the previous context of the new birth (1:22-25)? What does it look like for the Christian to hunger for, taste, drink, and grow? Have you seen this in your own growth in Christ? 2. Consider Jesus (vv. 4-8). What is the relationship of Jesus to the church? 3. Consider Jesus (v. 4). What truths of Christ become true for those who are in Christ (vv. 5, 9) 4. How is Peter reading and using the Old Testament? 5. What kind of life and ministry should flow from the saints identity in Christ? 6. What does it look like for the church to live as sojourners and exiles? 7. “When they speak against you as evildoers.” How does the world speak of the church in this way? How is Peter equipping the church for this event? 8. How ought we to respond to these realities of our identity in Christ?
We Christians in America today aren't so different from those to whom Peter was writing in his letter. The particulars of the trials we face may differ, but the Jesus whom we serve and the word by which we know him remain the same. The gospel fuels in us a fierce love for one another that the Lord uses to grow us for greater trials ahead.
As you read 1 Peter 1:22-25 in preparation for our Lord's Day worship, pray with me that God will use this imperishable word to mold our hearts for a love for one another that cannot be extinguished.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor Jared
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 1:22-25 1. What is the means of purifying one’s soul? What kind of obedience is this? 2. What is the aim of obedience and purification? How does this relate to our fellowship? 3. Why should sincerity and purity be marks of our fellowship? 4. What does it mean to be a creature of the Word? What does this signify about our relationship to the Word? 5. What does the imperishable nature of God’s Word mean for those who have been born again? 6. How ought we to respond as we consider our relationship to the Word, and our fellowship in the church? How should the gospel shape our fellowship? 7. In what ways does our new birth (or new "begetting") enable us to better love one another? 8. How does the enduring word of God contribute to our ability to love one another deeply?
Who put Jesus on the cross? Why did Christ die on the cross? What did his death accomplish? And why is his death good news?
These are just some of the questions that arise when we look carefully at the cross. And as a recent documentary, American Gospel: Christ Crucified, has argued, the historic message and orthodox meaning of the cross has been and is being abandoned throughout churches today. Why? Because churches and Christians are not letting Scripture speak.
This Sunday, by God’s grace, we will let Scripture speak. And looking at 1 Peter 1:17–21, we will see in manifold detail what the cross of Christ accomplished. Described as God’s ransom or redemption, we will see what God redeemed us from, what he redeemed us with, and why he redeemed us. If you have questions about the cross and its cosmic purposes, Sunday’s message will begin to provide answers.
Take time to read to 1 Peter 1:13–25 and pray for us to understand and delight in the cross of Christ. As Jesus said, he will draw all men to himself when he is lifted up. On Sunday, we will consider the lifted-up-Christ. So let us pray for God to draw us to himself and conform us into the image of his Son as we come to know more fully Christ and him crucified.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 1:18-21
- 1 Peter 1:18-21 presents the gospel in four verses. What aspects of the gospel do we see emphasized here? How would you share the gospel with someone? How might this passage help you?
- How does the gospel compare with futile ways and perishable things? How does Christ compare to these things?
- No mention of sin is made in these verses. But how might these verses address the problem of sin and God’s solution in Christ?
- What does it mean for Christ’s blood to be the ransom price? What does this passage teach us about the blood of Christ?
- In verse 20, there are two key verbs (“foreknown" and “manifested”): What realities of Christ does this speak of? How does this verse help us think about God and his relationship to the world? To your life?
- What does this language of “manifested” describe? (Consider also 1 Tim 3:16).
- “For the sake of you.” How should we respond to this reality? Is salvation merely a provision or is it a personal work of God? Why does that difference matter?
- How is divine action related to our belief, faith, and hope? (v. 21)
- Look at vv. 13–16 and vv. 22–25. How do these verses work in the letter of 1 Peter? How does meditating on Christ increase holy fear and sacrificial love?
To feel good or to be good. That is the question.
Ask yourself, how do you feel when you are told to “obey(!)”? Do you gladly receive the instruction with thanksgiving for the chance to be obedient? Or do you question the command and look for a way to do it on your own terms? Of course, there are examples of commands that are truly immoral, but why is it that we are so averse to obedience?
In Scripture, obedience to God and to his law are presented as the way of blessing and life. Disobedience is the way of cursing and death. Today, it seems to be the reverse. Rebellion is cool and obedience is, well, boring.
It reveals something about human nature that our hearts are inclined to obeying our desires and not the commands of others. By God’s common grace, we often find a match between God’s will and our own. But what happens when we do not? Are we compelled by what feels good or by what is good? And what does Scripture say about it?
This Sunday, we will engage this question as 1 Peter calls us obedient children who pursue God’s holiness. To prepare you for Peter's message, I must say that none of us are naturally disposed to obey his words, or the words of others. Rather, we are inclined by our human natures and taught by our American culture to see obedience as a burden and not a blessing. Yet, God’s Word says something else and God’s gospel actually accomplishes something else—namely, the new birth of obedient children.
So, let’s pray for God’s Word to give us a new (creation) desire for obedience. In preparation for Sunday, take time to read 1 Peter 1 and pray that God’s living words would have their full effect in our lives. We need our hearts and minds renewed by truth, and this Sunday we have a wonderful chance for that to happen.
I look forward to seeing you Sunday, as God allows, as we gather to worship Christ and proclaim the good news that God forgives our disobedience and makes us obedient children.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions 1 Peter 1:13-19 1. What is the main point of this passage? How do we see that? 2. What does 1 Peter 1:13-19 reveal about the identity of the church? 3. What is the new identity Peter wants his recipients to have and hold? 4. How does Peter use the Old Testament to form identities? How does that apply today? 5. What role does thinking play in the life of a Christian? 6. What is the difference between what Peter is saying and just having a good self-image? 7. What do we learn about the character of God in this passage? 8. How should the church respond to the following realities? - “The grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Christ” (v. 13) - The holiness of God “who called you” (vv. 14-15) - Identity as children (v. 14) in relationship to the Father (v. 17) - “The time of your exile” (v. 17) - The imperishable and “precious blood of Christ” (v. 19). 9. Is there anything that you should apply to your life?
Have you ever wondered what angels do with all their time? If so (or if not), 1 Peter 1:10–12 is going to tell you.
Taking a third look at our salvation in Christ from the opening section of 1 Peter, these three verses widen our gaze from the personal depths of salvation in the new birth (vv. 3–5) and the individual application of grace in our trials (vv. 6–9), to the cosmic reality of salvation from the beginning to the end of time. Indeed, in these three verses we are going to see how our individual experiences of salvation are part of a wider movement of grace that centers on the death and resurrection of Christ.
On Sunday, please gather with us as we consider the full range of God’s work of redemptive history. This is what angels long to look at, and as well will see, this is also something we should spend our days contemplating as well.
Please read these verses ahead of time and pray that God would enlarge our vision of his Son and his work of grace in our lives! You can also read the blog linked to this post to familiarize yourself with 1 Peter 1:10–12.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 1:10-12 1. How do verses 10–12 fit with verses 3–9? How might this wider picture of salvation help those going through trials? 2. In what ways are knowing the Old Testament and the story of salvation found therein important for our faith? 3. What does this text reveal about the personhood of the Spirit, and the Spirit’s relationship to the Father and Son? (vv. 11-12) 4. How did the Spirit of Christ minister through the prophets (vv. 10-11)? 5. How did the Holy Spirit minister through those preaching (v. 12)? 6. Notice the movement from suffering to glory (v. 11). Where have we seen this in 1 Peter already? Where else do we see this in Scripture? 7. Consider the inquiry of prophets and the curiosity of angels, and the incredible privilege and grace of knowing the gospel. How should we respond to this wonderful reality? 8. What might we learn from the searching and inquiry of the prophets and the curiosity of the angels? 9. Consider how Peter writes about God’s grace. Grace is multiplied to them (vv. 1-9), it was prophesied to them (vv. 10-12), and it will be brought to them (v. 13). What does this teach us about God’s grace?
Are we going to make it? How are we going to make it? What will it take to make it? And what is ‘it,' anyways?
If you were an elect exile living in Asia Minor during the first few decades of the church, you might ask these questions? Or, if you were a Protestant living in England during the reign of Bloody Mary, you might ask them too? Today, if you are a Christian living in China, or if you are Christian living anywhere that the cultural elites are pressing against biblical truth, you might be asking this kind of question: How are we going to keep the faith and abide in joy, when the trials come?
Fortunately, Scripture is not silent on this issue. And in 1 Peter 1:6–9 we find a number of truths related to salvation, joy, faith, trials, and perseverance. Writing to a people whose faith was being tested and lives being threatened, Peter teaches us how we can have abiding joy in our salvation and hope of eternal glory. On Sunday, we will consider these truths to see what they say to us about God, his salvation, and way he purifies our faith and prepares us for glory.
As you have time, read over 1 Peter 1 again. Pray for God to use these words of truth to bolster our faith. And if you have an extra 10 minutes, take time to read this selection from Jonathan Edwards on 1 Peter 1:8. I hope to see you Sunday, as the Lord allows.
For Christ’s Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 1:6-9 1. Read vv. 1-9 for context, and then we’ll focus on vv. 6-9. What is the object of rejoicing in verse 6? 2. Do you experience joy in the midst of trials? How does joy and grief fit together? Is it possible to have both? 3. What are dangers to guard against when experiencing grief and suffering? 4. What value is placed on “the tested genuineness of your faith”? How might this shape our understanding of trials? 5. How does what is seen and unseen relate to our joy and faith? 6. What will be revealed? What is the end and outcome of these things that will be revealed? 7. What does it look like to frame our suffering with the gospel? 8. What might be right and wrong ways to counsel someone who’s suffering? 9. How might Peter’s instruction in verses 6-9 serve as a model for us?
Resurrection Life. Eternal Life. Abundant Life.
These are just a few ways that the Bible speaks about life. And in a world where sin leads to death and death continues to steal life and loved ones, we need a sure and certain word about life that stands above the promises of the world. For indeed, in medicine, masks, new age meditation, clean eating, and wild living, the world promises all manner of life. Yet, none of these promises, nor those who make them, can overcome the grave. No one but the Triune God.
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 1:3-5
- Read 1 Peter 1:3-5 and consider the opening exclamation of praise in verse 3. How might we respond to these promises?
- What is the cause and means of our being born again?
- What are we born again into? Look for parallel thoughts (vv. 3-4).
- What is significant about Peter’s description of our hope as being a living hope?
- Consider the nature of the inheritance of the saints. How does this inheritance differ from an earthly inheritance?
- What is being guarded, and by what means?
This Sunday we begin a new series in the book of 1 Peter. If you are unfamiliar with that book, take time this weekend to read its five chapters. You will find that the whole book is shorter than the last three chapters of Daniel.
If you are familiar with 1 Peter, you will immediately recognize why this book is so important for us. Writing to elect exiles scattered throughout modern day Turkey (1:1), Peter gives a message of living hope to people who are surrounded by death and suffering opposition for their faith in Christ.
For us living in 2021, we need the strong words of encouragement found in 1 Peter. Built on the solid foundation of what it means to be made alive in Christ (1:3–2:10), the rest of the book calls us to suffer well, witness wisely, and serve others for God’s glory. All told, 1 Peter is a book for our age. And for the next few months, we will be making our way through its five hope-giving chapters. For more on this book, take time to read this blog and pray that God would bless us through the study of this book.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Peter 1:1-2 1. What does the salutation tell us about Peter? The audience? The letter? 2. What does it mean to be elect? Or an elect exile? How does that title apply to us today? 3. How does the text speak about God, especially as Triune? 4. How is the work of the Father, Son, and Spirit described? What does this reveal about God in salvation? 5. To what end does the Father elect the church according to his foreknowledge? 6. What is the relationship of election to sanctification? 7. Why is the order of verse 2—Father, Spirit, Son? What does this verse teach us about salvation? 8. What is the church’s relationship to Jesus Christ? 9. How is grace and peace multiplied to the church?
Who. What. When. I don’t know.
Those are not just three of the infielder’s from Abbott and Costello’s famous ‘Who’s on First?’ skit. They are also three important questions to ask in Daniel 12. When will the end be? What will the outcome be? And who will guarantee it?
Wonderfully for us, “I don’t know” is not our final answer. Indeed, while mystery shrouds the answer to these questions for Daniel. In the fulness of time, we can see how these answers have been, are being, and will be answered in the person and work of Christ—the Son of Man envisioned in Daniel 7:13–14 and the One raised from the dead as Daniel 12:1–3 promises.
Pulling all of this together, as we finish Daniel we will see what God is doing in history—past, present, and future. And just like we have seen throughout, the main point is less about when future events will occur, but who is bringing them about. Indeed, we will see what God in Christ has done for those who believe in him and why that is such good news. (‘Why’ is also Abbott and Costello’s Leftfielder – and you really should watch their skit, if you’ve never seen it before — Proverbs 17:22). More importantly, as you prepare for Sunday, please read Daniel 12 and consider why we have spent our time focusing in Daniel on the WHO and WHAT more than the WHEN.
As God permits, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and finishing Daniel together.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions for Daniel 12
- What has been the most interesting or encouraging truth you’ve learned in our study of Daniel?
- How has the focus on Christ as the fulfillment of Daniel helped you? Or been different than previous studies of Daniel?
- What is theological triage? And how does OBC prioritize various doctrines (i.e., the millennium)?
- Who is speaking to Daniel in Daniel 12? How do we know?
- What does the speaker say? What promises are found in these verses? How do they apply to Christ? And to us in Christ?
- How does the question about when the end will come get answered? How is this like Acts 1:5–8? What does this teach about seeking the timing of the end?
- What is God’s final word to Daniel? Why is this encouraging to you?
- What lingering questions do you have about Daniel? Or Daniel 12?
- Encourage your community group members to read the five chapters of 1 Peter.
Did you see what happened in Washington, D.C. this week? I suspect that you did and like all of America, there are mixed emotions of sorrow, anger, dred, and fear, all provoked by the events and images of January 6. The images of protesters storming the capital are likely not to be forgotten anytime soon. At the same time, how to make sense of them and all that led to them, as well as what may come between now and after the inauguration of Joe Biden, is full of uncertainty.
That being said, the truths in Daniel that have comforted us throughout the fall and into the new year remain steadfast and immovable in heaven and on earth. In fact, what we will see this Sunday is not only the sovereignty of God once again, but also the presence of unseen angels warring over the earth. Applied to the present, what we can see in the photos of Washington is not all there is to be seen. Indeed, according to the Bible, some of the greatest realities facing our nation and all nations are unseen beings seeking to deceive, destroy, and disrupt the plans of God.
Praise be to God, this cannot occur! God is reigning in heaven, and even what appears to be the undoing of our country is not the undoing of God’s plans!
With respect to angels, Colossians 1:15 says, God in Christ has created "all things, both in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities.” In other words, there is an unseen realm that has been created by God, appointed by God, and that is accountable to God. Ever since the world was divided into different languages, these angelic beings have been at work in the world. And though we cannot know what they are currently doing—only God can—we can know that they are present and that the warfare of this world is more than simply a matter of flesh and blood.
On Sunday, we will consider this Christian view of the world. In our secular age, the idea of angels is often rejected or ignored. But we cannot make sense of reality, or current events, apart from the angelic realm. Daniel 10 has much to teach on this subject, and as we gather this Sunday, this will be our focus.
So take time to read Daniel 10, as well as Daniel 11–12, and pray for God to open our eyes to see what his Word says about his world. There is more than can be seen with the physical eye, and we need eyes of faith to believe God and to walk by faith in this world. To that end we pray and gather on Sunday.
As the Lord allows, I hope to see you there.
For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David
Discussion & Response Questions
- What evidence is there for angels in the Bible? What do they do, according to Scripture? (See Deuteronomy 32:8–9; 1 Kings 22; Job 1–2; Isaiah 6:1–8; Zechariah 3:1–10; Ephesians 1:21–23; 6:10–19; Hebrews 1:1–2:4)
- How does the presence of angelic beings inform your worldview and approach to life? How has our modern world made belief in angels difficult?
- What is Daniel doing when the chapter begins? What does this teach us today, especially as churches remain scattered?
- Who comes to Daniel? How do we know who this figure is? See Revelation 1:13–16.
- What does Daniel 10 have to do with Daniel 11–12? How does Daniel 10 prepare us for the final vision? (Hint: Consider how the presence of the Prince of Persia and the Prince of Greece may contribute to the rise and fall of those nations).
- What do we learn in Daniel 10 about God? Angels? Ourselves? The World?
- What does this passage teach us about prayer? How might this view of angels inform the way we approach our fallen world?
- What does this passage teach us about God’s sovereignty? How does that strengthen your faith in these tumultuous days?