Immanuel URC of DeMotte

In this compelling exposition of Matthew 28:11-15, "A Different Report on the Empty Tomb" examines the false narrative created by religious authorities to counter the reality of Christ's resurrection. Rev. John Vermeer skillfully contrasts the truth of the empty tomb with the fabricated story spread by the chief priests and elders who bribed the guards. Through careful analysis of both the purposes behind this deception and its logical inconsistencies, the sermon reveals how this opposition ultimately strengthens the case for the resurrection. With practical applications about the nature of truth, the progressive entanglement of sin, and our responsibility to spread the gospel, the message challenges listeners to reject the world's false narratives and embrace the transformative truth of the risen Christ. This sermon provides a powerful apologetic framework while emphasizing that ultimately, faith comes through God's grace rather than mere evidence.

The sermon titled "The Purposes of The Lord's Supper" examines the dual nature of this sacrament through Luke 22:7-22 and the Heidelberg Catechism's Lord's Day 28. The pastor identifies two primary purposes of communion: first, to honor and praise the Lord through obedience to Christ's command "Do this in remembrance of me," and second, to proclaim the gospel for the benefit of believers.The sermon emphasizes that partaking in communion is not about personal worthiness but about remembering Christ's finished work on the cross. Rev. John Vermeer warns against both avoiding communion due to feelings of unworthiness and treating it casually without reverence. He addresses common reasons people might not participate - feeling unworthy, apathy, protest against church leadership, or unconfessed sin - while emphasizing that only impenitent sin should keep believers from the table.The sermon concludes by highlighting how communion benefits believers by reminding and assuring them of Christ's sufficient sacrifice, his current reign in heaven, and his promises to them. Like all God's commands, the Lord's Supper is given both for God's glory and for the spiritual welfare of his people, providing needed reminders of gospel truth in a world full of contrary messages.

The sermon "Keeping Proper Balance With Baptism" explores how Christians should understand the sacrament of baptism without either overvaluing or undervaluing it. Drawing from Matthew 3:1-12 and the Heidelberg Catechism's Lord's Day 27, Rev. John Vermeer demonstrates that overvaluing baptism leads to treating it as inherently salvific, resulting in ritualism without true faith. Conversely, undervaluing baptism diminishes God's covenant promises and the significance of His action toward us. The sermon emphasizes that baptism should be properly understood as God's signature on His covenant—not as a magical ritual that saves by itself, nor as a mere symbol, but as God's communication of His promises to believers and their children. When properly valued, baptism points us to Christ's saving work rather than to ourselves, assures us of God's covenant faithfulness, and calls us to respond with genuine faith and repentance.

This sermon explores Malachi 1:6-14, examining how God's people in post-exilic Israel were offering improper worship through blemished sacrifices and halfhearted attitudes. Rev. Mark Vander Hart establishes that genuine worship must begin with recognizing God's enduring love for His people and responding appropriately. The central message connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to Christ, explaining that animal sacrifices symbolically represented the worshiper and foreshadowed Jesus as the perfect sacrifice. The sermon emphasizes that true worship now occurs "in spirit and in truth" rather than in specific locations, with believers bringing Christ himself as their offering through faith. Throughout the message, Rev. Mark Vander Hart applies these principles to contemporary worship, challenging listeners to examine whether their worship is merely going through motions or reflects genuine love for God that extends beyond Sunday gatherings into everyday life.

"The Seed Worth Sowing" is a sermon based on Jesus' Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13:1-23. Mr. Daniel Hofland develops three main points: the diversity of soils (representing different responses to the gospel), the method of the sower (explaining Jesus' purpose in teaching through parables), and the quality of the seed (emphasizing the power and value of the gospel message). Using an engaging illustration about hypothetical "golden nugget seeds," the sermon demonstrates why the gospel should be shared widely without discrimination, even when not all will respond positively. The message emphasizes Reformed theological concepts such as total depravity and God's sovereignty in salvation while encouraging believers to faithfully sow the gospel seed, trusting the Holy Spirit to prepare hearts to receive it.

This sermon explores the significance of baptism through Romans 6:1-14 and the Heidelberg Catechism. The pastor emphasizes that baptism is neither an empty ritual nor a magical guarantee of salvation, but rather a powerful sign of our union with Christ in both His death and resurrection. The sermon explains how baptism visibly portrays two spiritual realities: the washing away of sins through Christ's blood (justification) and renewal through Christ's Spirit (sanctification). Dr. Mark Beach encourages believers not to "put baptism on a shelf" but to see it as a defining marker of their identity in Christ that shapes daily life through progressive dying to sin and living in holiness.

This sermon, based on Matthew 27:45-54 and Matthew 28:1-10, explores the profound significance of Christ's death and resurrection. Rev. John Vermeer uses the metaphor of dawn—"a new day has dawned"—to explain how the resurrection fundamentally transforms human history and experience. The sermon is structured around three main themes: resurrection signs (the earthquake, angel, rolled stone), resurrection words (God's interpretive message), and the resurrected Christ himself. Throughout, the preacher emphasizes that Christ's resurrection establishes a new covenant, begins a new age, and offers believers a new perspective characterized by peace, pardon, hope, reverence, grace, joy, and worship. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that this resurrection reality "makes all the difference for all the rest of our days."

This is a sermon on the means of grace, focused on Romans 15:14-22 and questions 65-68 from the Heidelberg Catechism. Rev. John Vermeer examines how true faith is produced and confirmed through what Reformed theology calls "the means of grace."The sermon explores two primary means through which the Holy Spirit works:Preaching of the Word: The pastor argues that contrary to modern trends that diminish preaching ("less is more"), the Spirit primarily works through gospel preaching to produce faith. He cites Paul's ambition to preach Christ where He had not been named and historical examples like the Great Awakening.The Sacraments: Unlike preaching which produces faith, the sacraments (baptism and communion) confirm and strengthen existing faith. Here, the pastor argues that "less is more" - Christ instituted only two sacraments, contrary to traditions that have created many more religious rituals and ceremonies.Throughout, the sermon emphasizes that both preaching and sacraments share a common focus - not on us or what we've done, but on Christ and His work. The pastor concludes by encouraging the congregation to appreciate these means of grace as God's chosen methods to work in believers' lives.

This sermon, based on Matthew 27:45-54, explores the unique and profound impact of Christ's death in contrast to all other deaths in human history. While death is typically our enemy that brings sorrow, Christ's death stands apart as supremely beneficial. Rev. John Vermeer examines three immediate effects of Christ's sacrifice: (1) the tearing of the temple veil, which ushered in a new covenant allowing direct access to God; (2) the earthquake and opening of tombs, which inaugurated a new age of resurrection hope; and (3) the Roman soldiers' confession, which demonstrated how Christ's death creates a new perspective of reverent faith. Through these three impacts—on the temple, the tombs, and the soldiers—we see how Christ's death continues to transform lives today by establishing fellowship with God, providing hope beyond death, and changing how we view both Christ and our own lives.

This sermon on Mark 11:1-10 examines Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, revealing Him as the divine King who comes with Yahweh's authority. Rev. Ken Anema how Jesus exercises God's authority by commanding disciples to obtain an untrained colt and accurately predicting events before they happen. The sermon explores how Jesus receives praise as the victorious King, the promised Davidic King, and the saving King who came to deliver people from sin rather than political oppression. The message challenges listeners to submit to Jesus' authority, trust Him with their future, participate in His mission, rely on His faithfulness, and seek His salvation from sin daily.

This sermon explores the contrast between "works religion" and "grace religion" through Ephesians 2:1-10 and the Heidelberg Catechism. The preacher emphasizes three key points: first, our good works cannot constitute our righteousness before God because they're imperfect and stained with sin; second, while our works merit nothing, God graciously rewards them as gifts; and third, true faith inevitably produces good works as evidence of transformation. Using accessible illustrations like toddlers learning to walk and vineyard workers receiving equal wages, the sermon powerfully conveys that salvation comes entirely through God's grace, yet this same grace transforms believers to naturally "walk in the good works which God prepared beforehand."

This sermon explores Lord's Day 23 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on the practical benefits of Christian faith. The pastor begins by addressing a common misconception that doctrine lacks practicality, arguing instead that understanding Christian teaching has immense practical value. Using Paul's testimony before King Agrippa in Acts 26 as illustration, the sermon emphasizes three key aspects of faith:The practicality of Christian faith - It transforms believers from darkness to light, making them righteous before God and heirs to eternal life.The uniqueness of Christian faith - Unlike other beliefs, it relies solely on Christ's righteousness rather than being supplemented by human works.Faith as an instrument of blessing - Faith itself is not the ground of justification but rather the God-given means by which believers receive Christ's righteousness.The sermon concludes that Christian faith brings "all the good there is to receive from the hand of God," emphasizing that even faith itself is a gift of grace that leaves no room for boasting.

The Powerful Humility of The King" examines Matthew 27:32-44, focusing on Christ's journey to crucifixion and His endurance on the cross. The sermon reveals how Jesus demonstrated true power through humility rather than self-preservation. While the world mocked Him with demands to "save yourself," Christ's refusal to come down from the cross accomplished our salvation. The sermon challenges believers to embrace sacrificial living that reflects Christ's example—taking up our crosses in daily acts of self-denial that serve others. Through powerful examples and biblical connections, the sermon contrasts the world's understanding of power with Christ's kingdom values, ultimately showing that the life that truly matters is one lived in humble service rather than self-interest.

This sermon examines the opposition Jesus faced after raising Lazarus from the dead, exploring the profound irony of how human hostility toward Christ actually served God's redemptive purposes. Dr. Beach focuses on the religious leaders' reaction to the miracle of Lazarus being raised to life and unpacks the divine plan that was unfolding even through their plots against Jesus.

This sermon titled "The Comfort of Eternity" addresses the question: How should Christians find hope and comfort in the face of aging, suffering, and death?The preacher explores Lord's Day 22 of the Heidelberg Catechism, which deals with the resurrection of the body and life everlasting. Using Revelation 21:1-8 as the primary text, the sermon contrasts the temporal nature of our current world—where everything becomes outdated and our bodies decay—with the eternal hope Christians have.The message emphasizes two key comforts of eternity: first, that believers' souls will immediately be with Christ after death while awaiting the resurrection of their bodies; second, that God will create a new heaven and earth where there will be no more tears, death, mourning, or pain.The sermon encourages listeners not to live for temporary pleasures but to find rest in Christ's promises and to live faithfully now with their eyes fixed on the eternal joy to come—a perfect blessedness that "no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has ever imagined."

The sermon focuses on the Christian doctrine of forgiveness of sins as found in Psalm 103 and the Heidelberg Catechism (Lord's Day 21, Question 56). Rev. John Vermeer emphasizes two key aspects of God's gracious ways: Christ's atonement, which removes our sins, and Christ's righteousness, which is granted to believers. The message highlights that God "does not deal with us according to our sins" because of Christ's sacrificial work, and this truth should lead to gratitude rather than rebellion or despair. The sermon challenges believers to personally embrace this forgiveness ("not just that there's forgiveness, but there's forgiveness for me") and to remember that no sin is greater than Christ's atonement. It concludes that true comfort comes not from our own righteousness but from Christ's, allowing believers to face judgment without fear.

In this sermon on Genesis 14, Pastor explores how an ancient battle narrative reveals profound truths about God's gracious work through Christ. The message examines the contrast between Abram as "his brother's keeper" and the mysterious figure of Melchizedek, King of Salem, showing how both point to Christ's redemptive work. The sermon addresses a key question: How do we distinguish between glorying in God's grace and glorying in ourselves? Through careful exposition, we see that this seemingly disconnected historical account ultimately demonstrates how God triumphs through apparent weakness, achieving victory not through human strength but divine provision.

This sermon focuses on the concept of "communion of saints" from Acts 2:42-47 and Question 55 of the Heidelberg Catechism. The pastor explains that the communion of saints is a precious gift from God that believers should both receive from and contribute to. He compares it to children eagerly wanting all their birthday gifts, suggesting Christians should similarly value this communion rather than seeing it as an unwanted extra. The sermon emphasizes that this communion has two sides: believers receive Christ's treasures and gifts through their fellowship with other believers, and they have a duty to share their own gifts to enrich others. The pastor warns against treating church like a buffet where one only comes to receive without giving, and encourages the congregation to contribute their unique talents and spiritual gifts to strengthen the community. Throughout, he stresses that while the communion of saints isn't perfect because it consists of imperfect people, it remains an invaluable gift from God that should be appreciated and actively participated in.

Rev. John Vermeer focuses on the Christian confession of "the Holy Catholic Church" from the Heidelberg Catechism (Question 54) and explores John 10:11-30. The theme centers on the essential corporate and individual nature of Christ's Church, contrasting it with modern individualism and isolation.Through the metaphor of Christ as the Good Shepherd and believers as His sheep, the pastor examines how Jesus gathers, protects, and preserves His flock from throughout human history. The sermon addresses the question: What does it mean to confess belief in the Holy Catholic Church when our culture pushes us toward isolation and individualism?The pastor emphasizes that Christians cannot truly follow Christ without being part of His Church, just as sheep cannot be separated from their shepherd or branches from the vine. The sermon concludes by affirming that being a "living member" of Christ's Church is integral to Christian identity and faith.

This sermon explores the spiritual journey of Abraham in Genesis 13 as he returns from his detour in Egypt to the land God promised him. Through Abraham's experience, we see a powerful pattern of spiritual restoration: returning to God's promises, remaining faithful despite challenges, and experiencing God's renewal. The sermon addresses a fundamental question: How do we find our way back to God and His promises after we've wandered away through poor choices? Abraham's journey demonstrates that true peace and blessing come not from following appearances or worldly wisdom, but through repentance, worship, and trust in God's covenant promises—ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

This sermon explores the essential role of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life, examining both His divine nature and His practical work in believers. Rev Vermeer addresses the profound question: What would our spiritual lives be like without the Holy Spirit? Drawing from Romans 15:13 and the Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 50, the message reveals how the Holy Spirit connects us to Christ, breeds hope in seemingly hopeless circumstances, and carries believers from justification through sanctification to final glorification. Through clear biblical teaching and practical application, viewers will discover why the Holy Spirit is not merely helpful but truly indispensable for living the Christian life with abundant hope.

In this sermon from Hebrews 2, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores the profound comfort found in Christ as our faithful and merciful high priest. When persecution, suffering, or doubt threatens our faith journey, how does Christ's own experience of humanity uniquely qualify Him to help us? Discover how the Son of God became our brother, made propitiation for our sins, and now sympathizes with our weaknesses—offering us access to the throne of grace in our time of need.

This sermon from Hebrews 1:1-4 addresses the crucial question of how God has revealed Himself to humanity. The preacher demonstrates that while God spoke in various ways through prophets in the past, He has now given His final and supreme revelation through His Son, Jesus Christ. This ultimate word is superior because of both the messenger (Christ as the exact representation of God's nature) and the message (the completed work of purification for sins). The sermon carefully unpacks the significance of this divine speaking, showing how it provides confidence and hope for believers facing challenges to their faith.

The sermon explores the profound comfort believers can find in Christ's second coming to judge the living and the dead, based on 2 Thessalonians 1 and Lord's Day 19 of the Heidelberg Catechism. Specifically addressing the question "How does Christ's return to judge the living and the dead comfort you?", the preacher develops three key benefits: the promise of perfect rest and relief from all afflictions, the glorification of Christ in His perfected saints, and the marvel of seeing Christ's unveiled glory. Through these themes, the sermon demonstrates how the doctrine of Christ's return isn't merely a future event to believe in, but a present source of comfort that should lead Christians to live with "uplifted heads" even amid current struggles and persecution.

In this sermon on Genesis 12, Rev John Vermeer examines God's foundational covenant with Abraham through the lens of divine promise and human response. The message explores how God calls Abraham to leave everything familiar—his country, kindred, and father's house—while promising to make him into a great nation, give him a great name, and ultimately bless all families of the earth through him. A central question emerges: Why does Abraham's attempt to preserve himself in Egypt through deception, rather than trusting God's protection, threaten the very promises he received? The sermon reveals that this episode demonstrates the crucial difference between human self-preservation and divine covenant faithfulness. While Abraham's actions in Egypt endangered both his wife Sarah and God's covenant promises, God's intervention preserved His promises despite human weakness. This contrast not only illuminates the nature of true faith but also points forward to Christ, who, unlike Abraham, demonstrated perfect trust in God's promises even to the point of death. The message ultimately shows how God's covenant promises are proclaimed, praised, and preserved not through human effort but through divine faithfulness.

This sermon, Our Heavenly Advantages in the Ascended Lord, explores the question: How does Christ's ascension benefit believers today? Drawing from John 16:1-15 and Heidelberg Catechism, Lord's Day 18, the sermon unpacks three key advantages of Christ's ascension. First, Christ serves as our heavenly advocate, interceding for us before the Father and securing our justification. Second, His ascension provides a heavenly pledge, assuring us of our future glorification as we remain united with Him. Finally, through the sending of the Holy Spirit, we are empowered for heavenly service, living in righteousness and seeking things above. These advantages not only shape our faith but also give us hope and purpose as we live in anticipation of our eternal home.

In this sermon, Dr. Cornelis Venema looks at 1 Corinthians 15:12-34, 50-58, highlighting the vital importance of the resurrection of Christ. He emphasizes that without the resurrection, Christian faith would be empty, offering no hope or salvation. The victory Christ achieved over death assures believers of their own future resurrection, providing a firm foundation for eternal life. This resurrection not only impacts the believer's future but also transforms how they live today, offering strength and hope to face life's trials. Dr. Venema underscores the necessity of Christ's resurrection for salvation and encourages Christians to remain steadfast in their faith. This passage provides background for Lord's Day 14.

This sermon explores God's covenant promises as revealed in Genesis 15, emphasizing His faithfulness in confirming His word to His people. It examines Abram's struggle between God's promises and his present reality, highlighting how Abram was justified by faith as he trusted in God's provision of both an heir and an inheritance. The sermon also unpacks the significance of God's covenant ceremony, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate sacrifice as the fulfillment of these promises. Additionally, it discusses the tension believers face in waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled and the importance of trusting in His perfect timing. Finally, the message connects these themes to the sacraments, particularly the Lord's Supper, as a sign and seal of God's continued faithfulness to His people in Christ.

In Eze 2:1-3:3 we learn of the pre-requisite, the prospect , the pressure, and the privilege of Ezekiel's ministry. Rev. Joel Wories looks at the context, the meaning for the original hearers of this text and the meaning for us today.

A fear amid sudden terror, a faith amid sudden terror, and a fear amid Christ's presence are the topics for discussion in this sermon on Luke 8:22-25 by Rev. Joel Wories.

This sermon explores Revelation 2:18-29; the letter to the Church in Thyatira. It covers who is speaking, what is commended, what is condemned and an encouragement.

In this sermon, Dr Cornelis Venema explores the theme of Christ's humiliation, focusing on His suffering, death, and the significance of His descent into hell as articulated in the Heidelberg Catechism and the Apostles' Creed. It emphasizes how these events relate to the believer's understanding of redemption and the comfort found in Christ's sacrifice.A central question addressed in the sermon is: Why was it necessary for Christ to suffer and die, and what does His descent into hell signify for believers? The answers come from Matthew 27:45-56 and Hebrews 2 as spoken of in Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 14.

Psalm 48 speaks of the profound truth that the Lord is the true strength of His city. For King David, this was Jerusalem, but for believers today, who are citizens of a heavenly city, we can find comfort in knowing that God is our fortress, loving us forever and worthy of meditation on and telling others about.

In the narrative of Jesus' crucifixion, one small yet significant detail often overlooked is found in Matthew 27:34, where it states, "They offered him wine to drink mixed with gall, but when he tasted it, he would not drink it." This moment encapsulates not only the physical suffering of Jesus but also the theological depth of his mission. This sermon explores the reasons behind Jesus' refusal and the implications of this act for Christian faith. (see also Lord's Day 15)

This evening in Part 2 (Psalm 96:7-13) of this sermon on Psalm 96, we find a command for the world, a command for the Church and the reasons for the commands. Pastor Ken Anema gave a similar outline for the first part of this Psalm in the morning sermon.

This video focuses on Psalm 96, emphasizing the call to worship and the importance of sharing one's salvation story with others. It encourages believers to reflect on their personal experiences of God's grace and to communicate these experiences to their neighbors and families.The theme revolves around the command to "sing to the Lord a new song" and the significance of declaring God's glory among the nations and peoples.A central question posed in the sermon is: How can we effectively share our salvation stories to inspire others to join in worship?

In this sermon from Acts 6:1-7 we learn of the occasion, the reasons and qualifications of Deacons in the church and of the impact they have on the Body of Christ.The theme of the sermon revolves around the calling and responsibilities of deacons within the church, highlighting their role in serving the congregation and supporting the ministry of the word and prayer.The sermon addresses the question: What is the biblical basis for the role of deacons, and how should they be selected and ordained in the church? This is illustrated through the historical context of the first deacons being appointed to address specific needs within the early church, as discussed in the sermon notes and teachings presented.For example, the sermon emphasizes the importance of prayer and preaching as the primary duties of ministers, which deacons support by taking on other responsibilities within the church community.

In this sermon on Phillipians 4:1-9 we will:• Discover how Paul's letter to the Philippians offers timeless exhortations that encourage believers to live out their faith amidst life's challenges and uncertainties.• Learn about the importance of focusing on what is true, honorable, and commendable, as highlighted in Philippians 4:8, and how these principles can guide your daily life.• Reflect on the impact of modern distractions, such as technology, on your spiritual life and the necessity of conducting a spiritual inventory of your heart.• Explore the call to action for Christians to serve God with unwavering commitment and love, despite the conflicts that arise from being in a community of believers.• Suggest ways to cultivate a mindset that prioritizes God's teachings and fosters peace in your life.

This sermon by Mr. Anthony Sato on 1 Peter 1:1-21 reveals the importance of hope in the life of a believer, especially during trials and challenges. It helps our understanding of our identity as "elect exiles" and what that means for our daily lives and conduct. There is a call to holiness and an explanation of how it relates to our hope in God and His promises.

In this sermon, Pastor Rossi draws from 1 Thessalonians 4 to emphasize the importance of living a life that pleases God. He encourages the congregation to strive for holiness, reflect on the grace of Jesus Christ, and grow in faith. The message addresses the dangers of idleness and complacency, particularly in light of the second coming of Christ, reminding listeners that active faith is essential. The speaker highlights the need for brotherly love and diligent work, urging the community to attract others to Christ and fulfill their mission as believers. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to abide in Christ and seek His glory in all aspects of life.

The key theme of the video revolves around the divisive nature of Christ's mission and the message of the cross. Here are the main points:Divisive Mission of Christ: The video discusses how Jesus' mission, while intended to bring peace, also results in division among people, including families and friends. This paradox is highlighted through the notion that accepting Christ can lead to conflict with those who do not share the same faith or values 18:24.Message of the Cross: The cross is portrayed as both a symbol of hope and a source of offense. It challenges individuals to reorder their loves and priorities, emphasizing that true commitment to Christ may require sacrificing other relationships or idols in one's life 24:11.Call to Commitment: The speaker urges listeners to evaluate their commitment to Christ, suggesting that true faith may lead to division but ultimately offers peace to those who believe. This call to readiness and commitment is a recurring theme throughout the message 33:30.Overall, the video emphasizes that while the message of Christ is one of salvation and peace, it inherently carries a divisive element that requires deep personal reflection and commitment.

From Psalm 8 we learn of the Lord's Glory that goes beyond the physical eye, His goodness which visits the son of man and that glory and honor which is imparted on the son of man.

What moves a person to not be ashamed to speak of The Gospel? In this sermon from Romans 1:16,17 we learn the 3 things that motivate a person to speak.

From John 4:7-12 Pastor Rossi looks at the origin of Christian love, and the revelation and perfection of God's love in us.

Being a selfless messenger on a dangerous mission with a grace-centered message is the theme drawn out of Acts 20:17-36. Listen in as Pastor Rossi continues his Farewell Sermon Series.