Forest Hill Presbyterian Church

Exploring Romans: Chapter 12 - Living the Gospel After eleven chapters of profound theology, Paul shifts to the practical: how do we live out the Gospel? In this episode of Exploring Romans, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church walks through Romans 12 to explore the great pivot of the Christian life. Discover what it means to be a "living sacrifice," how to humbly use our diverse spiritual gifts within the body of Christ, and what genuine, hypocrite-free Christian love looks like in everyday life.

Heidelberg Catechism Question #57 - The Resurrection of the Body What comfort does the resurrection of the body offer believers? In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church explores Heidelberg Catechism Question 57, looking at the glorious future promised to every child of God. Discover the two-fold hope of the Christian faith: the immediate, conscious joy of the soul being united with Christ upon death, and the ultimate, radiant resurrection of our physical bodies when Christ returns to make all things new. To learn more about Forest Hill Presbyterian Church or to get in touch, visit foresthillpca.org.

Exploring Romans: Chapter 11 - The Gospel and the Jews Has God rejected His people, Israel? By no means! In this episode of Exploring Romans, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church dives into Romans Chapter 11 to explore the mystery of God's sovereign grace. Discover the profound analogy of the grafted olive tree and learn how the partial hardening of Israel ultimately opens the door for the fullness of the Gentiles. Join us as we marvel at the unsearchable judgments, rich mercy, and deep wisdom of God's saving plan.

The Forgiveness of Sins | Heidelberg Catechism Q. 56 | Week 20 Welcome to Week 20 of our Heidelberg Catechism devotionals! Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church as we continue unpacking the Apostles' Creed. Today, we focus on Question 56: What do you believe concerning the forgiveness of sins? This devotional explores the incredible promise that our sins and sinful nature are forgiven entirely through Christ's satisfaction. Because we are granted the righteousness of Christ, we will never face condemnation. We close today's devotional by preparing our hearts to sing the classic hymn, "And Can It Be?" - Video Link: https://youtu.be/th7PfDoRmaM?si=pcYfKibitbvGOCBq Scriptures Referenced in this Devotional: 1 John 1:6-7 & 2:1-2 Jeremiah 31:31-34 Psalm 103:10-12 Romans 7:21-25 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 Romans 4:4-6 Romans 8:1-2 John 3:17-18

In this episode, Pastor Jason Van Bemel explores Romans 10, contrasting the pursuit of righteousness through the Law versus righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that while the Jewish people were zealous for God, they missed the "goal" of the Law—Christ—by trying to establish their own merit. The message underscores the simplicity of the Gospel: that everyone who confesses with their mouth and believes in their heart that God raised Jesus from the dead will be saved. The Pastor concludes by highlighting the necessity of evangelism and missions, as faith comes through hearing the Word of Christ preached.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a daily devotional on Question 55 of the Heidelberg Catechism. This study explores the "communion of saints," highlighting how believers share in Christ's spiritual riches and are called to cheerfully use their gifts to serve one another. The devotional concludes with the classic hymn, "I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord".

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a devotional on Heidelberg Catechism Question 54. In this session, we explore the Apostles' Creed and what it means to believe in the "Holy Catholic Christian Church," looking at its universal scope, unity in true faith, and our eternal security as living members. The devotional concludes with a beautiful rendition of the classic hymn, "The Church's One Foundation." Video for "The Church's One Foundation" - https://youtu.be/U3GzJlXa2fQ?si=_MapxGnB1EZzTT-0

Exploring Romans 9 | God's Sovereignty in Salvation | Day 149 Description: Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for Day 149 of the "Exploring Romans" series as we dive deep into Romans Chapter 9. This devotional reading and exposition challenges human pride by exploring the profound themes of God's sovereignty, mercy, and grace in salvation. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, visit foresthillpca.org.

Week 19: Heidelberg Catechism Question 53 - The Holy Spirit Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as we continue our devotional journey through the Apostles' Creed portion of the Heidelberg Catechism. This week, we dive into Question 53 to explore what we believe concerning the Holy Spirit. Discover the profound comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit is the true, eternal God—co-equal with the Father and the Son—and that He is given to every believer to unite us to Christ, assure us of our adoption, and dwell with us forever.

In this message from Romans 12:1-2, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores the great pivot of the Christian life. After eleven chapters of deep Gospel doctrine, the Apostle Paul challenges us to respond to God's mercy by offering our whole lives as living sacrifices. Discover what it means to reject the "siren song" of the world, renew your mind in the Word, and cultivate an "anything, anywhere, anytime" spirit of total commitment to King Jesus.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church as we wrap up Week 18 of our Heidelberg Catechism devotionals. In this episode, we focus on Question 52 and Article 7 of the Apostle's Creed: Christ's return to judge the living and the dead. Discover the deep gospel comfort believers find amidst sorrow, persecution, and loss, knowing our Savior will return to vanquish all enemies and bring His chosen ones into everlasting joy.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for this episode of Exploring Romans, as we dive into Romans chapter 8. Discover why this beloved passage is considered the heart of Paul's magnum opus, guiding believers from the promise of "no condemnation" to the ultimate assurance of "no separation". Learn how the Trinity works powerfully for our salvation and how we can practically walk by the Spirit amidst the struggles of life.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for Week 18 of the Heidelberg Catechism devotionals. In this episode, we explore Question 51, discussing Christ's ascension and His session at the right hand of God the Father. Discover how the glory of Christ our head benefits believers through the pouring out of the Holy Spirit's gifts and His power to defend and preserve us against all enemies.

Romans 7: The Believer's Struggle and the Law's Purpose Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores the complex relationship between the Christian and the Mosaic law. Discover why the "holy and righteous" law cannot save us from our sinful nature and how Jesus Christ provides the only way to serve in the "new way of the Spirit." • Understand the transition from the written code to life in Christ. • Find Encouragement in the shared struggle of the Apostle Paul. • Look ahead to the glorious hope found in Romans 8.

In this sermon on Romans 11:25-36, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores the "mystery" of God's plan for both Israel and the Gentiles. Summary of Key Points: • A Partial and Temporary Hardening: A partial hardening has come upon Israel until the "fullness of the Gentiles" is reached, a process that allowed the Gospel to spread to all nations. • The Salvation of "All Israel": Following the saturation of the Gospel among the nations, the sermon suggests a massive future conversion of the Jewish people to faith in Jesus, described as bringing "life from the dead". • An Irrevocable Calling: Despite current opposition to the Gospel, the Jewish people remain beloved by God because His gifts and calling are irrevocable. • The Wisdom of God: The passage concludes with a doxology praising the unfathomable depth of God's riches, wisdom, and unsearchable judgments, noting that all things exist for His glory. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to pray for the Jewish people and commit to the spread of the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for Week 18 of our devotional series. Today, we answer Question 50: Why does the Apostles' Creed state that Jesus "sits at the right hand of God"? Discover the power of Christ's current rule by exploring: The transition from His Ascension to His Session. His supreme headship over the Church (Ephesians 1 & Colossians 1). His eternal authority over all earthly powers (1 Peter 3).

Heidelberg Catechism: Lord's Day 18, Question #49 | The Benefits of Christ's Ascension Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church as we wrap up Ascension Week! In today's devotional (Question 49 of the Heidelberg Catechism), we explore the profound gospel comfort found in Christ's ascension into heaven. Discover the three amazing benefits of Jesus ascending on high: having a righteous Advocate before the Father, having our human flesh in heaven as a sure pledge of our future glory, and receiving the Holy Spirit to help us set our minds on things above.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as we read through the powerful truths of Romans 6 (ESV). If we are saved by grace, does that mean we can keep on sinning? By no means! Today's devotional dives into what it means to be united with Christ through baptism, set free from the bondage of sin, and made slaves to righteousness. Discover why living for God isn't about earning salvation, but joyfully living out the free gift of eternal life.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for an Ascension Week devotion on the Heidelberg Catechism. This session focuses on Question 48, exploring the profound mystery and comfort of Christ's two distinct but united natures: true God and true man.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for a study of Romans, chapter 5. In this devotional, we transition from the theme of justification into sanctification, exploring how faith in Christ brings us peace with God and an unshakable hope for His glory. Discover how Christ's one act of perfect righteousness brings an overflow of grace that conquers sin and anchors our progress in the Christian life.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for Week 17 of our Heidelberg Catechism devotionals. Today, we explore Question 47, examining the Ascension of Christ, His dual nature as true man and true God, and the comforting promise that He is always with us through the Holy Spirit.

God's Unfailing Plan: The Olive Tree (Romans 11:1-24) Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as he explores Romans 11:1-24 to uncover the profound mystery of God's unfailing plan. In examining the unbelief of the Jewish people toward the Messiah, the Apostle Paul asks: "Has God rejected his people?" and answers with a resounding, "By no means!". In this message, we unpack the following key themes: A Remnant Chosen by Grace: Despite widespread rejection, God has preserved a holy remnant of believers who are chosen entirely by His grace, not on the basis of works. God's Unfailing Word: Scripture reveals that while the elect obtained salvation, God decided the rest would be hardened with eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear. One Olive Tree: On a human level, the rejection of Jesus came from corrupt leaders, but God's overarching purpose in hardening their hearts was to open the door of salvation to the Gentiles. This was designed to provoke Israel to jealousy. Grafted In: Paul uses the imagery of an olive tree to show there is only one people of God and one covenant of grace. Gentile believers are wild olive shoots grafted into the nourishing root of the Abrahamic covenant. A Warning Against Arrogance: Paul explicitly warns Gentile believers not to become proud or arrogant toward the broken-off natural branches, reminding them that the root supports the branches, not the other way around. Ultimately, this passage reminds us that God's promises never fail, and His world is never spinning out of control. We cannot judge God; instead, we must marvel at His unsearchable judgments and give thanks for the sheer grace that has brought us to salvation.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a brief devotional exploring Question 46 of the Heidelberg Catechism: Christ's ascension into heaven. Discover the historical reality of Jesus' ascension, how His ongoing intercession at the right hand of God benefits believers today, and the glorious promise of His future return.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a devotional exposition of Romans chapter 4. In this episode of "Exploring Romans," we look at the examples of Abraham and David to discover the beautiful truth of justification by faith alone. Discover why our salvation rests not in our own works or obedience to the law, but solely on the finished work, perfect righteousness, and victorious resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In this study of Romans chapter 3, we examine the Apostle Paul's argument regarding humanity's spiritual condition and the necessity of the gospel. The passage clearly outlines that all people—both Jews and Gentiles—are under sin and that no human being can be justified by the works of the law. Key topics covered: The Purpose of the Law: How the law brings the knowledge of sin and holds the world accountable to God. Universal Unrighteousness: An examination of verses 10-18, emphasizing that "none is righteous, no, not one." Justification by Faith: How the righteousness of God is manifested apart from the law and given as a gift to all who believe. Redemption and Propitiation: Understanding Christ's sacrifice to satisfy divine justice and absorb the wrath of God. The study concludes by explaining how justification through faith alone eliminates all human boasting, pointing entirely to the finished work of Jesus Christ.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a brief devotional on Question 45 of the Heidelberg Catechism. In this episode, we explore the exaltation of Christ and uncover the three profound, life-changing benefits His resurrection brings to believers today.

Finding Comfort in the Cross | Heidelberg Catechism #44 Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as we explore Question 44 of the Heidelberg Catechism: Why is there added, "he descended into hell"? In this devotional, we unpack this controversial line from the Apostles' Creed to understand how Christ's unspeakable anguish on the cross fully satisfied God's wrath, forever delivering believers from the torments of hell.

Title: The Trap of Self-Righteousness | Exploring Romans 2 Description: Who is truly justified before God? In Romans 2, the Apostle Paul issues a challenging reality check to the self-righteous and religious. While it's easy to stand on the sidelines and point out the obvious sins of the world, Paul reminds us that passing judgment on others while secretly practicing the same things leaves us utterly without excuse. Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as he dives into one of the most challenging chapters in the Bible. Discover how God's law acts as a mirror to our own hearts, how God will judge the world fairly based on the light they have been given, and why merely being a "hearer" of the law will never be enough to save us. Key Takeaways: The Danger of Judging: Why the self-righteous are equally condemned under God's law. The Universal Law: How God's law is written on the conscience of every human being, regardless of their background. Heart Change vs. Outward Religion: Why true transformation requires the work of the Spirit, not just religious rituals.

What benefits do believers receive from Christ's death in this life? Heidelberg Catechism Question #43

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a devotional on Heidelberg Catechism Question 42. Discover why, although Christ died for our sins, believers still experience physical death—not as a punishment, but as an entrance into eternal life. This session includes scriptural reflections from John, Philippians, and 1 Thessalonians, followed by a musical performance of "Abide with Me."

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church in this deep dive into Romans Chapter 1. In this episode of the Exploring Romans series, we examine Paul's majestic introduction to the Gospel—the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. Pastor Jason provides a chapter-by-chapter exposition, walking through: The Identity of Jesus: Fully man and fully God. The Obedience of Faith: Why the Gospel is for all nations. The Wrath of God: Understanding why humanity needs salvation and how we suppress the truth. The Downward Spiral: How idolatry leads to a debased mind and the rejection of God's design. Whether you are a new believer or a long-time student of the Word, this devotional exposition offers a clear, biblical perspective on the "greatest letter ever written".

In this 15th week of the Heidelberg Catechism devotionals, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church explores Question 41: "Why was he buried?" Through an examination of Luke 23, 1 Corinthians 15, Isaiah 53, and Acts 13, Pastor Van Bemmel explains how Jesus' burial in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea fulfilled Old Testament prophecy and served as definitive proof of His death. Join us in reflecting on the reality of Christ's sacrifice, His time under the power of death, and the ultimate victory of His resurrection.

How God Brings People to Jesus (Romans 10:5-21) God is sovereign, but He doesn't expect believers to be passive. In this message on Romans 10, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explains how God uses "ordinary means"—like human effort and preaching—to accomplish His will and save the lost. ________________________________________ Key Takeaways • The Nature of True Faith: Saving faith requires both the internal possession of belief in Christ's resurrection and a credible external confession that "Jesus is Lord". • What "Lord" Means: Confessing Jesus as Lord implies He is YaHWeH in human flesh, your Master/Ruler, and the King to whom you owe your highest allegiance. • The Gospel Chain: Salvation follows a specific sequence: people must be sent, they must preach, and the lost must hear before they can believe and call upon the Lord. • Human Responsibility: No one has an excuse for unbelief. God has revealed Himself through creation and His Word, and He holds individuals responsible for their stubbornness and disobedience. • The Mission: Reaching the lost is not just for "professionals"; every Christian is called to herald the Good News or support those who do. Stop waiting for a sign from heaven—God has already brought the Word near to you. It's time to believe, call on Him, and go.

Why was Christ's death the only way to satisfy divine justice? Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Question 40 of the Heidelberg Catechism, reflecting on the necessity of Jesus' sacrifice and his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.

This devotional, led by Pastor Jason Van Bemmel, concludes the book of Acts. It follows Paul from the miracle-filled island of Malta to his final destination in Rome, where he spends two years under house arrest boldly proclaiming the Gospel.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as he explores Question 39 of the Heidelberg Catechism, reflecting on the profound meaning of Christ's crucifixion and the curse he bore for our salvation.

Michael Talerico, former pastoral intern at Forest Hill Presbyterian Church, leads a devotional on Acts 27, emphasizing the importance of trusting God's sovereignty even in the midst of life's "chaos" and harrowing trials.

In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Heidelberg Catechism Question 38, discussing why Jesus suffered under the earthly judge Pontius Pilate. He explains the concept of penal substitutionary atonement using passages from Luke, 2 Corinthians, and Galatians, showing how Christ was condemned in our place to free us from God's severe judgment.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a special Good Friday (2026) devotional on Question 37 of the Heidelberg Catechism. In this episode, we deeply meditate on the suffering of Jesus Christ. Through an exploration of the Apostles' Creed, Isaiah 53, and Hebrews 5, we look at how Christ willingly bore the wrath of God to redeem humanity, granting us grace, righteousness, and eternal life.

Paul stands before Herod Agrippa, giving us a Master Class in Gospel witness and apologetics.

Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Question 36 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on the profound benefits of Christ's holy conception and birth. He explains how Jesus, as both fully God and fully man, uniquely qualifies as our mediator to bridge the gap created by sin. Through exploring rich scriptures like 1 Timothy 2:5, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 8, Hebrews 9, and 1 Peter 1, this teaching highlights how Christ's perfect innocence covers our sin, purifies our conscience, and secures our eternal inheritance.

Context: The devotional focuses on Question 35 of the Heidelberg Catechism, exploring the Apostles' Creed article that states Jesus was "conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary." The Incarnation: The core teaching emphasizes that Jesus is the eternal Son of God who maintained His divine nature while taking on a true human nature, including flesh and blood, from the Virgin Mary through the power of the Holy Spirit. Scriptural Evidence: Passages like Romans 9:4-5, 1 John 5:20, and Luke 1:35 are utilized to affirm that Jesus is simultaneously the true, eternal God and a human Israelite according to the flesh. Theological Purpose: Drawing from Hebrews 2:17 and 4:15, the pastor explains that the Son of God had to become fully human to serve as a merciful, faithful, and sympathetic High Priest who understands our temptations. Atonement: By taking on human flesh and living a sinless life, Jesus was uniquely equipped to represent humanity before God and offer Himself as a propitiation to satisfy divine justice for our sins. Conclusion: The devotional concludes with a prayer of gratitude for Christ's sacrifice and an introduction to the historic incarnation hymn, Of the Father's Love Begotten.

Join Pastor Intern Michael Taliercio for a devotional study of Acts 25. Explore how God's sovereignty and wisdom protect Paul through the legal systems of the time, ensuring the Gospel continues its journey toward Rome.

Romans 9:30-10:4 shows us how all human efforts at self-righteousness or religious zeal fall short of the righteousness of God, which is the only righteousness that can save us.

Heidelberg Catechism Devotional #33: The Son of God Join Pastor Jason van Bemmel as he explores Question 33 of the Heidelberg Catechism: Why is Jesus called God's "only begotten Son" when we are also called His children? This devotional delves into the eternal sonship of Christ and the beautiful reality of our adoption through grace. Key Scripture: John 1:1-18, 1 John 4:9, Romans 8:14-17.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for Day 522 of "Walking with Jesus through the Word" as we dig into Acts 23. In this daily devotional, we explore Paul's chaotic trial before the Sanhedrin, a deadly conspiracy by forty men to end his life, and his dramatic nighttime Roman escort to Governor Felix in Caesarea—marking the beginning of his long imprisonment. Originally recorded as part of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church's three-year Bible study (2022-2024). To find out more, visit foresthillpca.org.

Pastor Jason van Bemmel explores Paul's trial before Governor Felix in Acts 24. Learn from Paul's example of a dignified defense, his refusal to return slander with slander, and his unwavering commitment to preaching righteousness, self-control, and judgment even to a corrupt authority.

Heidelberg Catechism #32: Your Identity in Christ What does it actually mean to carry the name "Christian"? In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel dives into Question 32 of the Heidelberg Catechism to explore the profound identity and calling of every believer. Key Takeaways: United by Faith: Being a Christian means you are a member of Christ by faith and a partaker of His Holy Spirit anointing. The Threefold Office: Discover how you share in Christ's roles: Prophet: Empowered to confess His name and speak His truth. Priest: Called to present your life as a living sacrifice of thankfulness. King: Equipped to fight a spiritual battle against sin and the devil, with the promise of reigning eternally with Christ. Scriptural Foundation: This teaching draws from 1 Peter 2:9, Romans 12:1, and 1 John 2:27 to ground your identity in God's Word.

This sermon addresses the challenging doctrine of God's sovereign election found in Romans 9:1-29. It explores the tension between Paul's deep sorrow over the unbelief of the Jewish people and the reassuring truth that God's promises have not failed, as salvation relies on God's promise rather than physical lineage or heritage. The message emphasizes that salvation is entirely a result of God's undeserved mercy, not human will or exertion, using the biblical examples of Jacob and Esau, Pharaoh, and the Potter and the clay. Ultimately, the sermon concludes that wrestling with this difficult doctrine should not end in frustration, but should instead drive believers to humble gratitude for God's mercy and earnest, persistent prayer for the unsaved.

This 17-minute devotional, led by Pastoral Intern Michael Taliercio of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church, explores Acts chapter 22. The episode covers Paul's defense before a hostile Jerusalem crowd, his conversion testimony, and a reflection on God's grace and sovereignty in using even our backgrounds for His purposes.