Forest Hill Presbyterian Church

67. Q. Are both the Word and the sacraments then intended to focus our faith on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross as the only ground of our salvation? A. Yes, indeed. The Holy Spirit teaches us in the gospel and assures us by the sacraments that our entire salvation rests on Christ's one sacrifice for us on the cross.

Welcome back to Walking with Jesus Through the Word! Today, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church kicks off our study of 1 Corinthians with a deep dive into chapter 1. In this devotional, we explore three key truths from Paul's letter to the church in Corinth: We Are Saints United in Christ: True holiness means being set apart in Christ, which unites believers across all earthly and denominational lines. Baptism is Not the Gospel: While baptism is a beautiful sign and seal of God's grace, it is not what saves us—salvation comes by God's grace through faith in Christ alone. God Chooses the Weak: The world prizes wealth, power, and celebrity, but God delights in choosing the foolish and weak things of the world to shame the strong. True wisdom and redemption are found only in Jesus. Join us as we learn to boast only in the Lord! #1Corinthians #DailyDevotional #BibleStudy #ReformedTheology #ChristianUnity #ForestHillPCA

What are Sacraments? Pastor Jason leads us on a devotional study of Heidelberg Catechism Question #66 on the Sacraments. Learn how Baptism and the Lord's Supper picture and promise the grace of the Gospel.

In today's devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores 1 Corinthians chapter 2. The city of Corinth was sophisticated, highly educated, and proud. Yet, when the Apostle Paul arrived, he didn't try to impress them with eloquent philosophy or classical rhetoric. Instead, he resolved to preach nothing but "Jesus Christ and Him crucified". Why? Because the cross—though it seems like foolishness to the world—is the ultimate power and hidden wisdom of God for salvation. Join us as we discuss why the natural mind cannot grasp the gospel without the Holy Spirit , and how believers are given the very "mind of Christ."

Sermon: God and Government Text: Romans 13:1-7 Speaker: Pastor Jason Van Bemmel I. Introduction: Culture vs. Scripture • Two common cultural sayings are that "religion and politics don't mix" and that "you can't legislate morality." • The separation of church and state is a biblical concept, as Jesus demonstrated by distinguishing between what belongs to Caesar and what belongs to God, and by declaring His kingdom is not of this world. • Legislation is inescapably moral because it aims to ban or discourage immoral behavior while protecting and promoting moral behavior. • Christians must learn to see the overarching hand of God's providence behind human government, rather than refusing to "kiss the rod of providence" and resorting to complaining. II. Christians & Government: Submission Not Resistance • The fundamental posture for every person toward the governing authorities is to be submission rather than resistance. • R.C. Sproul notes that Christians should bend over backwards to submit and be the "best citizens," meaning we cannot disobey simply because a law is inconvenient or because we disagree with it. • Paul commanded submission to the government during the reign of Emperor Nero, a ruler who violently persecuted Christians and executed millions for public entertainment. • Human governments are a manifestation of God's common grace, serving as a benefit to all humanity much like the sun and the rain. III. God & Government: Vengeance Against Evil • God appoints governments primarily to restrain and punish evil, acting as a terror to bad conduct. • While Romans 12 instructs believers to leave vengeance to God, Romans 13 reveals that the governing authori

Welcome to our Heidelberg Catechism devotionals! In this episode, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church wraps up Week 22 by exploring Question #65. If we are made right before God by faith alone, where does that saving faith actually come from? Pastor Jason unpacks how God doesn't just demand faith, but actively provides it. In this episode, we cover: The Source of Faith: How the Holy Spirit actively works faith into our hearts. The Word and the Spirit: Why faith isn't generated by our own willpower, but is birthed through the preaching of the Gospel (Romans 10:17). The Power of the Sacraments: How Baptism and the Lord's Supper serve as visible, tangible confirmations to strengthen the faith God has given us. A Covenant Confirmation: Looking at how signs like circumcision and the Lord's Supper act as a seal of the righteousness we have by faith. To learn more about our church, visit: foresthillpca.org

Welcome to the final episode of Exploring Romans! In this concluding devotional (Day 177), Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church walks us through Romans Chapter 16. In this episode, we cover: The Saints of Rome: Paul's extensive greetings highlight the many dedicated individuals who worked hard to support his ministry. This demonstrates that the vital work of the church relies on every member contributing. Women in the Early Church: Pastor Jason emphasizes the prominent service of women in the early church, such as Phoebe, Prisca, Mary, and Junia. He addresses the specific translation regarding Junia, clarifying that she was well-known to the apostles, rather than being a female apostle herself. He also cautions against forcing egalitarian theology into the text. Warnings Against Division: The episode explores Paul's strong warning against egotistical people who use smooth talk and flattery to create obstacles and divisions. These individuals serve their own appetites instead of serving Christ. The Final Doxology: The letter concludes with a powerful benediction praising the eternal God who strengthens believers through the gospel of Jesus Christ. These devotionals were originally presented as part of "Walking with Jesus through the Bible," a three-year journey through the whole Word of God (2022–2024).

In this Heidelberg Catechism Devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church explores Question #64. If salvation is completely by grace, doesn't that make people careless and wicked? Pastor Jason answers this age-old question by delving into the nature of true, living faith. He unpacks why true faith cannot be dead and must produce the fruit of thankfulness, and why it is so much more than mere knowledge or agreement—it's active trust in Jesus Christ. In this episode, we cover: The transition from Grace to Gratitude in the Heidelberg Catechism The true nature of saving faith: Knowledge, Assent, and Trust The contrast between a "diseased tree" and a "healthy tree" in the life of a believer To learn more about our church, visit: foresthillpca.org

Welcome to Exploring Romans! In this episode, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church walks us through the powerful message of Romans Chapter 15. In this study, we cover: Supporting the Weak: The biblical mandate for "strong" believers to bear with the weak, contrasting modern culture's heavy focus on "self-care" with the Christian call to selflessly build others up. Church Unity: How Christ's sacrifice fulfilled God's promises to the Jewish patriarchs while simultaneously bringing hope to the Gentiles, uniting them into one unified body. Missions and Mercy: A look at the Apostle Paul's foundational ministry from Jerusalem to Illyricum, his future ambitions to preach in Spain, and his immediate mission to deliver financial aid to struggling saints in Jerusalem. This devotional was originally recorded as part of Forest Hill's three-year journey through the Word of God, "Walking with Jesus through the Bible" (2022–2024).

Grace to Gratitude: Why Our Good Works Aren't Enough | Heidelberg Catechism Week 22, Day 1, Questions 62-63 Welcome to Week 22 of the Heidelberg Catechism Devotionals with Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church. This week, we pivot from the topic of God's grace to our response of gratitude, specifically exploring Questions 62 and 63. Join us as we explore why our good works—even our best efforts—cannot serve as our righteousness before God. We will dive into Scripture (including Galatians, James, Isaiah, and Luke) to understand why salvation is through faith alone and how any reward for our works is simply a gift of God's amazing grace.

God calls us to a radically counter-cultural life of love for others. Will we answer the call? How? This sermon from Pastor Jason Van Bemmel on Romans 12:14-21 is challenging and compelling.

Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church leads a study on Question 61 of the Heidelberg Catechism. He explores the theological concept of imputed righteousness, explaining that believers are justified before God not because their faith itself has intrinsic saving merit, but because faith is the instrument used to lay hold of Jesus Christ's perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness. The session includes an opening prayer, a reading of relevant scriptures (1 Corinthians 1, Romans 10), and concludes with a closing prayer and the hymn "Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness."

Exploring Romans: Day 171 – Christian Liberty and Matters of Conscience (Romans 14) Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a morning devotional set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Blue Ridge, Georgia. In this episode of Exploring Romans, we read and study Romans 14, where the Apostle Paul addresses the early church's struggles with "adiaphora"—matters of indifference, such as dietary laws and holy days. Discover how we can navigate modern disagreements over matters of personal conscience by applying Paul's two overriding rules: always act in faith as unto the Lord, and always act in love toward your brothers and sisters in Christ. If you have any questions or feedback, please email pastor@foresthillpca.org or visit foresthillpca.org to learn more.

Exploring Romans: Day 168 – Submission, Love, and Living in the Light (Romans 13) Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from the beautiful North Georgia mountains for Day 168 of our Exploring Romans journey. In this daily devotional, we dive into Romans chapter 13 to uncover the practical applications of offering our bodies as "living sacrifices" in a fallen world. Pastor Jason breaks down three essential directives outlined by the Apostle Paul: our relationship with earthly governments, our enduring debt to love one another, and the urgent call to live uprightly in the "daytime" by putting on the Lord Jesus Christ.

How can you be righteous before God? Heidelberg Catechism Question #60 answers this vital question. Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as we explore what the Bible says about our justification by faith before God.

Heidelberg Catechism Question #58 - The Life Everlasting What comfort do you receive from the article about "the life everlasting"? In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church concludes the Apostles' Creed series by exploring Heidelberg Catechism Question 58. Discover the beautiful two-part promise of eternal life: the beginning of eternal joy we experience in our hearts right now, and the ultimate, perfect blessedness we will enjoy in the presence of God forever. To learn more about Forest Hill Presbyterian Church or to get in touch, visit foresthillpca.org.

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.