Grace Reformed Baptist of Pine Bush

The sermon presents a comprehensive, Christ-centered vision of the practical Christian life, grounded in the transformative power of the Gospel and shaped by the revealed Word of God. Drawing from 1 Peter 2, it emphasizes that true Christian living begins with a heartfelt experience of God's goodness—tasting that the Lord is good—and progresses into a life marked by the rejection of all evil, including malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander, which hinder spiritual growth. The believer is called to emulate Christ, not only in faith but in obedience and suffering, following His example as the ultimate model for conduct. This life is not merely negative or moralistic but is positively oriented toward the Word of God, where believers are to long for spiritual nourishment like newborn infants, growing in grace and knowledge through faithful engagement with Scripture. Ultimately, the Christian life is a holistic, ongoing transformation shaped by Christ's supremacy and the Scriptures, resulting in a people who live honorably, pursue peace, and glorify God in all things.

The Psalms are structured in five books that mirror the theological and historical progression of the Torah, with Book 3 corresponding to the book of Leviticus and reflecting its central themes of holiness, ritual purity, and covenant faithfulness. This section, composed largely by priestly figures and centered on the sanctuary, confronts the tension between divine promise and human failure, as seen in the lament of the righteous who struggle to understand why the wicked prosper while the faithful suffer. The turning point comes not in observation but in entering the sanctuary—experiencing God's presence, which restores perspective and reaffirms that true blessing lies in God Himself, not in worldly success. The book ends in despair over the destruction of the temple and the exile, a consequence of covenant unfaithfulness, yet it sets the stage for Book 4's message of enduring divine presence even in exile. Together, the Psalms function as a liturgical and theological commentary on the Torah, revealing how God's faithfulness persists despite human failure, and how worship in the sanctuary becomes the means of spiritual renewal and hope.

This cluster of Psalms (25–33) centers on the theology of confident trust in God, marking a progression from the lament of the first cluster to the confession of the second, and now culminating in a posture of steadfast faith and patient waiting upon the Lord. Rooted in the Davidic tradition, these Psalms highlight the king as the paradigm of faith, whose unwavering reliance on God becomes the source of national blessing and divine deliverance. The recurring themes of trust, waiting, and hope are woven throughout, emphasizing that those who place their confidence in the Lord will not be put to shame, but will experience His salvation, vindication, and enduring presence. The Psalms point beyond the earthly king to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, whose faithfulness secures victory and whose exalted reign brings peace and glory to all who trust in Him. Ultimately, this section invites God's people to live not in despair or mere confession, but in the victorious assurance of faith that waits upon the Lord, knowing that His promises are sure and His deliverance certain.

The final section of the first book of Psalms, though initially perplexing in its return to themes of lament and suffering, is revealed to mirror the structure and trajectory of Genesis—moving from primeval chaos and human rebellion to the redemptive cycles of Abraham, Jacob, and Joseph. This cluster, while echoing the earlier 'presence of the enemy' Psalms, deepens the theological arc by emphasizing the necessity of waiting upon the Lord amid trials, reflecting the righteous suffering and eventual exaltation seen in Joseph's life. The psalms are not a departure from prior themes but a reclamation of them, showing that faith endures through affliction, anchored in God's faithfulness and the promise of ultimate deliverance. The connection to Genesis provides a narrative framework that illuminates the psalms as a liturgical reflection on God's redemptive history, where suffering precedes triumph and trust in divine timing is paramount. Ultimately, the section affirms that even in the darkest trials, the Lord remains faithful, and the righteous are sustained by His presence, promises, and eventual vindication.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of the Gospel, emphasizing that believers are born again through the imperishable, living Word of God, which sustains a life of sincere, fervent love and enduring hope. Drawing from 1 Peter 1:22–25, it highlights the preciousness and incorruptibility of divine realities—such as the blood of Christ, the tested genuineness of faith, and the eternal inheritance—contrasting them with the fleeting nature of earthly life. The message underscores that true spiritual life is not self-generated but rooted in God's eternal Word, which remains forever and is the foundation of both personal renewal and communal fellowship within the Church. The preacher calls believers to cherish these abiding truths, to cultivate deep, intentional love among one another, and to live as a family united by grace, sustained by prayer, and anchored in the unshakable hope of Christ's resurrection and return.

The sermon presents a rich, multi-layered exploration of the Book of Psalms, emphasizing its design as a liturgical and devotional collection shaped by Israel's history, theology, and worship practices. Centered on the fivefold structure of the Psalms—mirroring the Pentateuch—each book reflects a distinct spiritual journey: from lament and the presence of enemies (Psalms 3–14), to confession and the experience of God's presence (Psalms 15–24), to confident trust (Psalms 25–33), and finally to joyful praise and blessing (Psalms 34–41). The preacher highlights chiastic structures, particularly the central role of Psalm 19, which points to God's self-revelation in creation and Scripture, and Psalm 8, which affirms humanity's divine destiny fulfilled in Christ. Through careful analysis of clusters, themes, and theological motifs—such as the restoration of Edenic dominion, the Davidic kingship, and the sovereignty of God over all creation—the sermon calls believers to engage the Psalms not only as personal prayers in distress but as a transformative guide for lament, trust, and worship, ultimately leading to a deeper, more realistic and Christ-centered faith.

The sermon centers on the tenth commandment—'You shall not covet'—presenting it not merely as a prohibition against theft or adultery, but as a profound call to purity of heart and spiritual integrity. It explores how coveting, though internal, corrupts the soul, distorts relationships, and reveals idolatry by placing created things above God, ultimately dehumanizing both the coveter and the object of desire. Drawing from Scripture, including the fall of Adam and Eve, the sin of Achan, and the transformation of Paul, the message underscores that true righteousness begins with a heart transformed by grace, not legalism. The preacher emphasizes that genuine faith is marked by contentment, stewardship, and selfless love, exemplified in Christ's incarnation and Paul's ministry, where the pursuit of others' souls, not personal gain, defined true service. The call is for believers to reject materialism, greed, and self-centered ambition, trusting in God's promise to never leave or forsake them, and to live as free people whose hearts are fixed on Him alone.

The Psalms are presented as a theologically rich collection of songs that narrate the Bible's own story of restoration of the blessings of creation. Beginning with Psalm 1 and 2 as a gateway into the Psalms that introduce the themes of Torah (instruction) and Kingship as vital to human blessing. The first 14 Psalms form a chiastic structure centered on Psalm 8, which meditates on God's majesty in creation and humanity's royal destiny, contrasting the pervasive presence of enemies and wickedness with the secure hope of divine deliverance and ultimate relief. This cluster of 'presence of the enemy' Psalms emphasize that while adversaries increase and distress is real, God remains the shield and helper of the righteous. The transition to Psalms 15–24 marks a shift to "Presence of the Lord" Psalms, where the focus turns to approaching God's holy presence and finding joy, vindication and victory in a presence mediated by Divine revelation in both the world and the word (Psalm 19).

The sermon presents the Book of Psalms not merely as a collection of individual prayers or poetic expressions, but as a theologically structured narrative shaped by divine inspiration and liturgical purpose. It emphasizes that the Psalms are organized into five books—mirroring the five books of the Law—each reflecting a stage in Israel's spiritual journey: the conflict of David's rise, the establishment of God's kingdom in Zion, the fall of the Davidic dynasty, the exile and longing for restoration, and the ultimate hope of a new Davidic king. Central to this structure is the recurring theme of God's presence, which transforms lament into praise, and the idea that the Psalms function as a living commentary on Scripture, especially the Law and Prophets, designed to be sung in worship. The sermon highlights how the Psalms are not just personal expressions but a communal story of creation, fall, exile, and redemption, culminating in the expectation of Christ as the true King who restores God's blessings to a new creation people.

The Christian life is fundamentally defined by union with Jesus Christ—a vital, spiritual bond that encompasses identity, salvation, and ongoing fellowship with Him. This union, though not explicitly named in Scripture, is revealed throughout the New Testament through phrases like 'in Christ' and metaphors such as the vine and branches, the body and head, and the marriage of Christ and the Church, illustrating a profound, intimate connection that transforms believers' lives. Practically, this union brings safety from God's wrath, fosters growing likeness to Christ, produces spiritual fruit through dependence on Him, and cultivates deep intimacy with God, all of which are rooted in the believer's faith in Christ. The union is initiated by God's sovereign grace through the Incarnation and is personally appropriated by faith—trusting in Christ's righteousness rather than human effort or religious credentials. Ultimately, being 'in Christ' is the defining reality of the Christian, demanding gratitude, obedience, and a life centered on Him, with eternal life and hope secured in that unbreakable bond.

The sermon presents a theological and historical exploration of the Hebrew Bible's third division, the Ketuvim, or 'Writings,' emphasizing its distinct structure and purpose compared to the Christian canon. It highlights how the Jewish ordering—law, prophets, and writings—reflects a theological framework where the Psalms, as the first book of the Ketuvim, serve not merely as poetry but as a narrative of Israel's history, centered on David and the restoration of God's covenantal blessings. The sermon argues that the Psalms are structured in five books mirroring the Pentateuch, each corresponding to a phase in Israel's story: the rise, reign, and eventual collapse of the Davidic kingdom, followed by exile and return, culminating in a final book of confident hope and universal praise. This arrangement, rooted in post-exilic worship and the need to sustain faith amid loss, reveals a deeper theological design where lament leads to praise, exile to restoration, and human kingship to divine sovereignty, ultimately pointing forward to Christ as the true King who fulfills God's redemptive plan.

The sermon explores the significance of the Ninth Commandment, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and the dangers of bearing false witness against one's neighbor. Drawing from Zechariah 8 and other passages, the message underscores the need for honesty in speech, kindness in communication, and a discerning approach to information, advocating for a community built on dependability and faithfulness, reflecting God's own character and ultimately leading to a life pleasing in His sight, where words build up rather than tear down.

The sermon explores the multifaceted nature of the gospel, moving beyond a narrow focus on justification by faith to encompass God's overarching purpose of restoring creation and blessing all nations through Christ. Drawing from passages like Galatians 3 and Ephesians, the message emphasizes that the gospel is not merely about individual salvation but about reconciliation, the breaking down of barriers between Jew and Gentile, and the establishment of a new humanity united in Christ. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding the gospel's historical context, particularly Paul's ministry and the fulfillment of Old Testament promises, while cautioning against isolating specific truths and advocating for a holistic understanding of God's redemptive plan, ultimately pointing to Christ's reign and the hope of his return.

The sermon explores a private conversation between Jesus and Martha, highlighting the theological significance of John 11 and 12, which intertwine the raising of Lazarus with Mary's anointing of Jesus. It emphasizes that Lazarus's resurrection isn't merely a miraculous event but a foreshadowing of Jesus' own death and resurrection, revealing Jesus as "the resurrection and the life," capable of granting eternal life to those who believe. The message underscores the importance of faith and the power of Jesus' words, demonstrating that true belief leads to a confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, and the key to overcoming death and experiencing the fullness of God's grace.

This study emphasizes that in Paul's letters the gospel isn's solely about justification by faith, but encompasses the entirety of God's work in Christ—his death, resurrection, and ascension—culminating in the restoration of creation and the blessing of all nations. The preacher encourages listeners to move beyond simplistic appeals to need or greed and instead embrace the fullness of the gospel message, recognizing Jesus as Lord and Christ, and to proclaim his work with humility and faithfulness.

The sermon explores the seventh commandment, "You shall not commit adultery," emphasizing its significance within God's design for marriage as a sacred institution reflecting His relationship with Israel and, ultimately, Christ and the Church. It argues that the commandment isn't merely a prohibition against sexual infidelity but a call to uphold the sanctity of marriage, protect its role in procreation and nurture, and reflect God's image through faithful commitment and intimacy. Drawing on Old Testament passages and contrasting them with modern cultural attitudes, the message underscores the importance of returning to God's original design for human sexuality, rejecting casual encounters, and embracing the transformative power of grace to live a life of faithfulness and love.

The discussion centers on the prohibition against murder, highlighting its connection to the sanctity of human life, the importance of cultivating respect for all individuals, and the need to address the root causes of violence within the heart, ultimately calling for a life of peace, generosity, and service rooted in a deep love for God and neighbor.

The sermon explores the enduring relevance of the Ten Commandments, framing them not merely as a code of conduct but as a holistic presentation of God's design for humanity. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of these principles, beginning with a relationship to God, extending to the role of parents, the rights of neighbors, and ultimately the regulating of our own hearts.

The sermon explores the meaning of the gospel, challenging prevalent definitions and advocating for a biblically grounded understanding rooted in Old Testament concepts of good news and the ultimate reign of God. The study emphasizes the gospel as the announcement of Christ's victory over sin and death, his enthronement, and the promise of a restored creation where righteousness dwells. The speaker encourages a return to scripture to discern the core message, highlighting the importance of proclaiming Christ's Lordship and inviting repentance and belief as a response to the good news of God's kingdom.

The sermon explores the significance of honoring parents, rooted in the fifth commandment and its connection to God's promise of a flourishing life in the land. It emphasizes that honoring parents isn't about blind obedience, but about recognizing their role as protectors, providers, and instructors, reflecting God's own character and providing a foundation for responsible authority in all aspects of life. The message clarifies that honoring parents involves verbal praise, principled obedience, and ongoing care, particularly in their later years, ultimately shaping individuals into responsible adults who reflect God's love and faithfulness to future generations.

This sermon explores a pivotal encounter between Jesus and a Samaritan woman at the well. The conversation moves beyond a discussion of physical thirst and water, revealing Jesus as the source of living water which flows from the living temple and wells up to eternal life. The passage reveals Jesus as offering a perfect gift, teaching a perfect worship as the perfect husband, seeking his bride.

The study explores the centrality of Leviticus within the Pentateuch, arguing that it's not merely a collection of archaic rituals but a vital instruction manual for approaching God. It highlights the book's structure, emphasizing the interconnectedness of laws concerning the place of worship, the priestly function, and the people's status, all pointing toward a restoration of the original design of creation and a journey back to divine presence.

The sermon explores the significance of the Sabbath, challenging common misconceptions and urging listeners to move beyond legalistic or libertarian interpretations. It examines the historical roots of the Sabbath in creation and the covenant with Israel, highlighting its adaptability in light of the unfolding of the drama of redemption. The message emphasizes the Sabbath as a day not merely for rest, but for actively meeting with God, receiving spiritual nourishment, and rising in devotion, ultimately fostering a life of worship and obedience that reflects God's design for humanity.

The sermon explores the third commandment, emphasizing that taking the Lord's name in vain is not merely about avoiding blasphemous speech, but about accurately representing God through one's actions and life. Drawing parallels to priestly duties of bearing tribal names and the importance of living as faithful reflections of Christ, in our service in his name.

The sermon explores the second of the Ten Principles, focusing on the prohibition against creating carved images of God, arguing that no physical representation can adequately capture the divine nature. It emphasizes that true worship involves approaching God in spirit and truth, rather than through visual or material representations, and highlights the importance of conforming to God's revealed will through His word. The message underscores the need for humility and a focus on God's concerns, advocating for a word-centered worship that prioritizes God's delight and faithfulness above personal desires and ambitions.

The sermon focuses on the first of Jesus' private conversations recorded in John's Gospel, namely his encounter with Nathaniel. Finding the setting of this encounter in the seven days of the New Creation that parallels the opening of the book of Genesis, John emphasizes Jesus' comprehensive knowledge of individuals, exemplified by his knowing Nathanael even before he was called. The conversation underscores the commendable character of Nathaniel, the transformative power of encountering the Jesus, and the hope of greater things to come, all highlighting the Lord's personal care of his people and the promise of the glory to come.

The sermon explores the foundational significance of the Ten Commandments, framing them not as a legalistic code but as principles for covenantal living rooted in a restored relationship with God. It emphasizes that these words, spoken from Sinai, are a call to undivided allegiance, rejecting all substitutes for the one true God who brought Israel out of Egypt and offers grace, security, and eternal life. The message underscores the importance of gratitude, honor, and vigilance against idolatry in all its forms—whether manifested in the pursuit of pleasure, wealth, or other worldly commitments—ultimately urging listeners to prioritize a heart-centered devotion to God above all else.

This study emphasizes understanding the gospel as God's comprehensive restoration of the blessings of creation through the saving acts of Jesus, rather than a truncated view focused solely on the doctrine of justification by faith or some other gospel blessing or requirement. Looking at passages in the Prophets coming to fulfillment in the events of the life of Christ we find that the gospel encompasses the entirety of God's intervention in human history, through the life, death, resurrection, ascension, reign, and return of Jesus Christ. This holistic view, rooted in the prophetic order and fulfilled in Christ, highlights the restoration of creation and calls for a broader proclamation that includes not only righteousness but also the power of resurrection, fellowship with Christ's sufferings, and the hope of a restored creation, moving beyond solely legal concepts to encompass the fullness of God's restoration of the blessings designed for the creation.

John's use of seven in his Gospel is discussed as a prelude to the seven personal conversations Jesus had with individuals