Faith Presbyterian Church Podcast

Galatians 1:10–24In our study of Galatians 2:1-14 today, we examine Paul's visit to Jerusalem. He encountered all the apostles, particularly Peter, James, and John, and they affirmed his teaching and preaching of the Gospel of grace to the Gentiles, which didn't necessitate circumcision or adherence to the law as a basis for justification. This council's affirmation of freedom from the law through grace will be a recurring point in the subsequent chapters of Galatians.

Join us as we consider the introduction to Paul's letter to the Galatians.

In this sermon, guest speaker, Andrew Graham, leads us in considering Mark 3:28–30. He reminds us of the incredible breadth of the Lord's forgiveness. There is no sin and no words we can speak, which the Lord will not forgive. Having pointed out this truth, he moves on to discuss "the unforgivable sin" and the ramifications of turning away once enlightened. This blasphemy of the Spirit is not a matter of speaking the wrong words but of rejecting Truth and wanting nothing to do with Christ, while knowing exactly who He is. These people don't want His forgiveness and they shall not have it. Moving on from there, Andrew Graham applies the importance of these truths to the lives of mature, established believers. Listen in and be encouraged in your pursuit of Christ. 

Ephesians 5:15–21This evening we begin the long section that runs from 5:15 to 6:9, where Paul again exhorts us to “walk” and, after an initial paragraph, works through the various relationships in an ancient household. Our focus this week is on his initial paragraph and the careful watchfulness he calls us to as he unfolds the nature of the Christian life, walking wisely, understanding the will of the Lord, and being filled by the Holy Spirit—which he explains by means of four results. Thanksgiving for ALL things brings in a discussion of how to give thanks in the midst of suffering, and a closing comment on submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ sets us up to move into the remainder of the chapter next week.

In this sermon covering Matthew 16:1–4, Pastor Tony challenges us to consider both the wonder of human understanding, and its limits. He further urges us to consider and take to heart the folly of human pride.

Join us as we continue in our Ephesians study, exploring the many treasures God's Word holds out to us.

The feeding of the four thousand, this time in Gentile territory, is a testament to Jesus' boundless compassion and provision. While there are distinct differences, the similarity between this miracle and the feeding of the five thousand a chapter earlier serves both as a needed reminder and as a gentle rebuke of our forgetfulness. Listen, not just with the present story in mind, but with a renewed trust in the One who meets our greatest and deepest needs.

In this passage we further consider our union with Christ and how that plays out in our interactions with one another. We are to reject falsehood, put away anger, work honestly, speak kindly, forgive readily, and imitate God's love. We are called to live as one body, reflecting Christ's sacrifice.

Focused on Matthew 15:21–31, "Crumbs from the Master's Table," considers a difficult Biblical text. Grounded in a prayerful approach Pastor Tony exhorts us to read closely to meet objections, read for beauty, connect the Bible to itself, and make meaningful application as we read.

Ephesians 4:17-24 contrasts the futile, darkened lifestyle of those without Christ with the transformed life believers are called to live. Paul urges Christians to abandon their former ways, of ignorance and sensuality, and instead embrace their new identity in Christ. This involves "putting off" the corrupt old self and "putting on" the new self, created in God's likeness, through a renewal of the mind, resulting in a life of true righteousness and holiness.

As Jesus' ministry continues, the criticisms of the Pharisees and scribes sharpen—but Jesus meets them head-on. Their complaint about the disciples transgressing the tradition of the elders gives Jesus the opportunity to reveal the way they circumvent God's law and seek to replace it with human authority. His words give us occasion to reflect on our own tendency to substitute the demands of God's law with a different set of rules we believe we can keep, instead of setting our hearts on Jesus' fulfilling of the law in our place.

In a transitional passage often lumped with what follows or precedes, Matthew reminds us of precious truths at the core of Christ's public ministry. As he arrives on the shore we immediately see how word of mouth spreads the news. We then see that even a mere touching of Jesus' garment brings healing—because Jesus takes hold of those he saves. We further see that Jesus saves to the uttermost, reflecting on the language Matthew uses to describe the healings. As we turn to reflect on ourselves, let us consider how Jesus saves us to the uttermost; how, though our faith be weak, we are saved by his firm and unconquerable hold on us; and let us ask the Lord to open our mouths to spread abroad the news of what he has done for us, that others may be drawn to him.

Ephesians 4:7–16 describes how Christ distributes diverse gifts to individuals within the church, each according to his own measure. These gifts, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, are given to build up the body and equip her for ministry. Join us as Pastor Tony highlights how every believer is uniquely gifted for a specific role in the kingdom. Each one of us, then, contributes to the church's growth in grace. And we discern our gifts in service and in attention to the ordinary means of grace!

Pastor Tony's sermon, “The Sea is His, for He Made It" (Matthew 14:22-36), considers Jesus's dual nature. He is presented as True Man in his weariness and need for prayer. Simultaneously, he is shown as Very God in his miraculous walking on water and calming the storm, demonstrating divine power over creation. This passage underscores that Jesus's divinity and humanity are both essential For Us and For Our Salvation, highlighting his role as the Sovereign mediator and utterly sufficient redeemer.

Join us as we continue in Ephesians 4:3–7, building on our discussion of vv. 1–3 to show how the character Paul describes is necessary for and enables the kind of unity he calls us to. Tucked away in his comments is the potent metaphor of the church as a body, which we take the time to discuss at length. Paul's portrait of our mutual interdependence and support is set squarely against core elements of our cultural identity as proudly self-sufficient, providing us with much food for thought.

Pastor Tony's sermon, "Jesus Feeds the Multitude," based on Matthew 14:13-21, explores one of Jesus' best-known miracles, the feeding of the five thousand. Walking through the text he first looks at how the miracle unfolds, highlighting Christ's active compassion, His challenge to the disciples to meet the crowd's need, and his provision of the resources his disciples lack. Second, Pastor Tony discusses the role of the sign Jesus performs within Jesus' ministry and the book of Matthew. Lastly, he concludes with timeless truths to reflect upon, showing how Jesus continues to call us to work beyond our ability and resources, that we might learn to depend on him.

In his sermon “The Hardening of Herod's Heart,” Pastor Tony considers a flashback concerning Herod and John the Baptist in Matthew 14:1–12. More important than all of the political intrigue is the way in which Herod models how sin devastates and hardens the human heart. We consider in turn how sin breeds fear, how fear then compounds sin, and how compounded sin hardens a fearful heart. Listen well for the challenge to your own soul, and know that the cross of Christ is the only power able to break the pictured cycle of sin and fear and hardening.

In the opening verses of Ephesians 4 Paul turns from his doctrinal section to focus on application—and yet the way he does so keeps us firmly anchored in the glories of Christ's work as the foundation of our conduct. Listen in as we explore Paul's glance back at our calling even as he moves forward into an exposition of how we therefore walk in the likeness of our savior.

In his sermon "Belief and Understanding," Pastor Tony leads us through Matthew 13:51–58. He highlights first the blessing of belief, emphasizing the disciples' affirmation of understanding in verse 51. Second, he speaks of the delight of discipleship, describing the "householder" in verse 52 who brings forth both new and old treasures, symbolizing the ongoing growth and joy of faith. Finally, Pastor Tony warns against the folly of familiarity, illustrating how the people of Nazareth described in verses 53–58, already acquainted with Jesus, miss the significance of His ministry and take offense. The sermon challenges us to move beyond mere familiarity with Jesus to a genuine belief leading to joyful discipleship.

In his sermon, "Treasure New and Old," Pastor Tony explores the parables in Matthew 13:44-52, highlighting the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven. He emphasizes first, the surpassing worth of this kingdom. Like a treasure hidden in a field, it is so valuable that all else is willingly sacrificed to obtain it. Second, he speaks of the surpassing joy experienced by those who find this treasure, echoing the merchant who sells all he has for a pearl of great price. Finally, Pastor Tony stresses the surpassing urgency of following Christ, drawing our attention to the many fish discarded from the fisherman's net. The sermon calls us to recognize the immeasurable value of the Kingdom, embrace the joy it offers, and respond with urgent obedience to Christ's call. As Pastor Tony points out, if we are counting the cost, we have lost sight of its worth. 

Matthew 13:24–43 “The Wheat, the Tares, and the Kingdom” The Spread of the Kingdom is Hidden vv. 31–35 The Growth of the Kingdom is Opposed   vv. 38–39 The End of the Kingdom is Blessing   vv. 41–43

Matthew 13:1–23 “You Have Not Because You Ask Not” Consider the Parable vv. 1–9 Consider the Purpose vv. 10–17 Consider the Explanation vv. 18–23

In this passage Jesus clarifies who belongs to His household. We see the importance of family, the priority of Jesus, and the household of faith.

Addressing the Pharisees' demand for a sign from heaven, Jesus rebukes their disingenuous request and suppression of the truth. He then uses the parable of an unclean spirit leaving a person and eventually returning with seven other spirits, to remind His audience that they will indeed reap what they sow.

Christ has come and He's plundering Satan's house! In recognizing this reality, we consider what Matthew 12:22–37 has to say about the urgency of recognizing Christ's identity and the insidious nature of opposition to Him.

This morning we consider the Lord's giving of the Ten Commandments to the people through Moses. For long ages, these words have served as a summary of God's moral law, as we see in their expansion in Exodus and Deuteronomy, and Jesus' summary of them in the two great commandments. Join us as we discuss their setting, their division, and their application, with special reference to the second commandment and Moses' expansion at the end of the chapter. See, too, how the people request—and the Lord provides—a mediator to shield them from God's terrifying presence and bring God's word to them.

This week we consider the great hope Christ represents to the Gentiles under three headings. Jesus the Gentle Healer Jesus the Suffering Servant Jesus the Hope of the World

Join us for Sunday School as we consider Exodus 19 where Moses ascends Mount Sinai. In coming chapters, he will be given the Ten Commandments .

1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 addresses the topic of death and the resurrection, emphasizing the distinct perspective of believers when facing death. While the world grieves without hope for the departed, believers mourn with a hope-filled expectation. What does this mean? What does this look like? Listen in as the Lord provides comfort and solace in the face of death through His Word.

Exodus 18 tells the story of Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, visiting him in the wilderness. Moses recounts the Lord's great deliverance from Egypt, and Jethro praises God. Recognizing the overwhelming burden of Moses' leadership, Jethro advises him to delegate authority to capable men, establishing a hierarchical court system with judges at various levels. This delegation of authority allows Moses to focus on more important matters while ensuring justice and order among the people. It also serves as a framework and example for church government, reflected at the council of Acts 15 and followed by our denomination.

In tonight's study, we paused with Paul in Ephesians 3. As he takes a moment to reflect on his divine calling to the Ephesians, and then to pray for them, we're invited to learn from this example prayer.

Matthew 12:1–14 presents a stark contrast between the rigid legalism of the Pharisees and true Sabbath-keeping. The Pharisees, zealous but legalistic, accuse Jesus' disciples of breaking the Sabbath by plucking heads of grain and rubbing them in their hands. Jesus, however, reframes the Sabbath. He is the Lord of the Sabbath, and His disciples are free to act in mercy and do the necessities, even on the Sabbath. This reframing is a far cry from the self-righteous legalism of the Pharisees, who have turned the Sabbath into a burden rather than a blessing. Jesus, invites us to rest in Him, the ultimate Sabbath rest. It is not a question of what we can't do on the Sabbath but of what we can! By trusting in Christ and abiding in Him, we can find peace and refreshment for our souls.

"Finding Lasting Peace" As we consider Matthew 11:25–30, we are confronted with the wisdom of the Father, and the dominion of the Son. In Their gracious lordship, we find our peace and the rest promised to the blessed of the Lord.

The people quarrel and the Lord responds. Not much ink is dedicated to this profound moment and yet it is pivotal, referenced in the Gospels, the Psalms, and in Hebrews. Join us as we discuss this crucial moment in Israel's history.

Wrath is real. Repentance is required. The Lord's patience with us is not a dismissal of our sin. Now is the time to take these truths seriously.

The people of God find themselves in the wilderness, wholly dependant on the Lord for their daily bread. He provides through manna and quail and, in the process, reminds the people (and His people today) that one day in seven has been set aside to Him. The people are no longer slaves in Egypt and they are reminded, through gracious provision, that it is the Lord who owns their time. Please join us for this encouraging discussion.

In the second half of Ephesians 2 Paul turns to consider how our common share in God's riches through Christ tells us how we relate to one another in one body. In this rich paragraph he demolishes any other notion of lasting unity, showing how an eternal unity between believers has been forged through the cross. An important message to consider in a divisive season; we invite you to join us in reflecting on this beautiful aspect of the gospel!

Matthew 11:1–19 Disappointment is no stranger to the Christian life, and sometimes, at the root, we find ourselves disappointed when what we expected from the Lord is not what comes to pass. This morning we take a look at Jesus' words in Matthew 11:1–19, generated by John the Baptist's disappointment and confusion. Join us as we are challenged once again to adjust our expectations in light of the teaching of God's word and the certainty of the resurrection, even as we begin to see the opposition and hostility Jesus warned against take shape in his ministry, and celebrate with us the grace we find in the midst of the confusion and hostility!

Join us as we consider Moses' song in Exodus 15 and the beginning of the journey from the Red Sea to Mount Sinai. As we zoom out from the passage we also consider how the Old Testament consistently borrows elements of a pagan worldview—only to subvert them and portray the Lord's power and dominion. We also venture into a description of the latter half of Exodus before rounding out our discussion of the chapter.

Join us as we consider "works" and their place in the Christian life. We are encouraged with the reality that they are an "end" and not a means. We are NOT called to trust in our grip on Christ, but rather to trust in His grip on us.

Jesus Brings Conflict Jesus Owns Our Affections Jesus Finds a Reception

In this captivating Sunday School session, we consider the dramatic narrative of Exodus 13:17 – 14, where the Israelites, having left Egypt, begin their journey to the Promised Land. We discuss the significance of the pillars of cloud and fire that accompany the Israelites. They are meant to remind us of an earlier covenant and the faithfulness of our God. He is not only with His people in their present need but is also keeping his earlier promises to Abraham! As we journey through the text, we uncover the tension and anticipation that builds as Pharaoh's army closes in, and also the miraculous nature of their deliverance in the parting of the Red Sea. Tune in for an engaging discussion, focused on both historical context and spiritual realities.

As Paul draws the first chapter of his letter to a close he names the things for which he prays. Full of thankfulness for the Ephesians, he prays above all that they might grow: in grace, in knowledge, in understanding of all that God has done for them in Christ. And in the face of all that might frighten and trouble them he reminds them of Christ's power and dominion. To God be the glory!

Matthew 10:26–33 One of the most frequently repeated commands in the Bible is, “Do not fear.” Here in the midst of instructions with frightening aspects Jesus pauses to give us four reasons not to fear our persecutors: (1) what is hidden will be revealed; (2) they can only kill the body; (3) you are of more value than sparrows; and (4) Jesus will acknowledge you. Join us as we carefully consider both the challenge and the comfort of Jesus' words in this paragraph.

Join us in our consideration of Exodus 12:1–13:16, as we delve into one of the most pivotal moments in the Book of Exodus. We discuss the Passover as both an act of judgement and of deliverance, entirely resetting the Hebrew calendar. Whether you're familiar with this text or discovering it for the first time, this Sunday School lesson offers insights and reflections that will deepen your understanding of this foundational biblical narrative.

Join us as we consider Ephesians 1:11–14, exploring the profound themes of inheritance, predestination, and the Holy Spirit's seal. These powerful verses offer a glimpse into the Lord's plan and purpose for believers, giving us hope and encouragement.

Matthew 10:16–25 “Persecution Guaranteed” Opposition is Certain God's Provision is Certain Let us Be Like Jesus

Hail. Locusts. Supernatural darkness. The plagues continue. As the Lord systematically smashes every idol the Egyptians have manufactured for themselves, the Egyptians themselves begin to fear the word of the Lord. And though every encounter with Pharaoh reads like “second verse, same as the first,” yet the fear of the Lord finds a home even among Pharaoh's servants. So we begin to see the Lord's missionary purpose even in the midst of his judgment, and we reflect on this stage of the exodus as the fulfillment of his promise to Abraham.

Matthew 9:27–38 “The Progress of the Kingdom” A Royal Healer is Here vv. 27–31 A Rebellious People Scoffs vv. 32–34 A Ripe Harvest Lies Before Us vv. 35–38

Exodus 8:1–9:12 | The next five plagues. Pharaoh's heart is hardened. God's power and glory are displayed. The magicians of Egypt are confounded, never able to counter and now no longer able even to mimic. And the Lord begins to make a distinction between the Israelites and the people of Egypt. Where will it go from here? And how will the people of Egypt respond to the wondrous works of the Lord?

Predestination. Adoption. Redemption. Forgiveness. Grace. Praise. Join us as we continue to make our way through a paragraph full of wonder, as Paul speaks of our salvation in Christ and cannot help but spill over into doxology. How do we draw comfort and encouragement now from the knowledge that we are chosen in Christ? How does the adoption Paul describes calm our doubts and our fears? And how can we do other than sing from the heart in response to this wonderful news?