Seven Springs Presbyterian Church

The sermon traces the biblical narrative of God's dwelling with His people from the garden to the new heavens and new earth, revealing how the tabernacle—constructed according to divine blueprint and symbolizing God's presence among a sinful people—points forward to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment. It unfolds the progression from the temporary, portable tabernacle in the wilderness to Solomon's temple, the subsequent destruction and rebuilding, and finally to the eternal reality in heaven, where Christ Himself is the temple and God dwells with His people without need for a physical structure. Through this journey, the preacher emphasizes that Christ is the true mediator, the perfect sacrifice, and the living embodiment of God's presence, making access to God possible through His atoning work and indwelling Spirit. The sermon calls believers to see Scripture not as isolated stories but as a unified redemptive history culminating in Christ, who is the fulfillment of every sacred symbol and the eternal dwelling place of God with humanity.

This sermon draws a profound connection between the ancient priestly garments and duties described in Exodus 39 and the spiritual vocation of all believers in Christ. Centered on the sacred role of the high priest, it emphasizes the holiness, danger, and solemn responsibility of approaching a holy God, illustrated through the meticulous construction of the priestly attire and the life of constant ritual, purity, and sacrifice. The passage underscores that true priesthood was not earned by lineage or ambition but by divine appointment and consecration, culminating in the ultimate fulfillment of Christ as the perfect, sinless High Priest who entered heaven itself, offering His own blood once for all. The sermon then applies this truth to the present day, declaring that every Christian is now a 'holy priesthood' (1 Peter 2:9), called not to perform sacrifices but to live in holy separation, proclaim God's glory, and resist the passions of the flesh. It calls believers to embrace their high calling with reverence, not as a burden, but as a privilege rooted in Christ's finished work, urging them to walk in holiness, bear witness to the world, and await the day when all will glorify God.

This sermon unfolds the theological significance of the tabernacle's construction in Exodus 38, presenting it as a divinely ordered sanctuary that reveals God's provision for sinful humanity to approach His holy presence. Central to the message is the reality that access to God is only possible through sacrifice, cleansing, and a divinely appointed way—each symbolized by the bronze altar, the basin of bronze, and the court's gate, all of which point to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment. The altar of burnt offering, where blood was shed daily, prefigures Christ's perfect sacrifice that atones for sins and satisfies divine wrath, while the basin of cleansing reflects the ongoing work of Christ's Spirit and Word in sanctifying believers. The court's structure, with its separation and singular entrance, underscores that no one comes to the Father except through Christ, who is the true way, truth, and life. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that the earthly tabernacle, though built by human hands and materials, was a shadow of the heavenly reality fulfilled in Christ, whose eternal priesthood and perfect sacrifice have rendered the old system obsolete, calling believers to worship in spirit and truth, centered solely on Him.

This sermon explores the symbolic significance of the tabernacle's four key pieces of furniture— the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of the Presence, the Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense—as divine types and shadows pointing to Christ's redemptive work. Each element reveals a vital aspect of salvation: the Ark, with its mercy seat and law, illustrates God's justice and mercy fulfilled in Christ's atoning sacrifice; the Table of the Presence signifies Christ as the true bread of life, sustaining believers through His provision and communion; the Lampstand, with its seven branches, represents Christ as the light of the world, bringing spiritual life and illumination; and the Altar of Incense symbolizes Christ's ongoing intercession in heaven, where His prayers ascend as a sweet aroma on behalf of believers. The sermon emphasizes that while the Old Testament rituals were temporary and preparatory, Christ's once-for-all entry into the heavenly sanctuary secures eternal redemption, enabling believers to approach God with confidence, not through ritual, but through faith in Him.

This sermon unfolds the theological significance of the tabernacle's construction in Exodus 36, emphasizing that God's holy presence necessitates a divinely ordained structure to mediate between a holy God and sinful humanity. Rooted in covenantal faithfulness, the tabernacle's meticulous design—its curtains, frames, and veil—symbolizes the unbridgeable chasm created by sin, with the innermost Holy of Holies accessible only once a year by the high priest, underscoring humanity's inability to approach God on its own terms. The sermon highlights that every element, from the cherubim to the golden clasps, points forward to Christ, who fulfills the tabernacle's purpose by becoming the ultimate mediator, tearing the veil through His sacrificial death, and enabling believers to enter God's presence with bold confidence. Drawing from Hebrews and Matthew, it affirms that Christ's atoning work has removed the barrier of sin, making His flesh the new and living way into God's presence, and calls the church to live in the reality of this redemption, anticipating eternal fellowship with God.

The sermon centers on the divine call and empowerment of ordinary individuals—Bezalel and Aholiab—for extraordinary service in building the tabernacle, illustrating how God equips, calls, and stirs His people to participate in His redemptive work. It emphasizes that leadership is not merely elected or self-claimed but divinely appointed, rooted in spiritual gifts, character, and God's providential preparation, with modern parallels found in the qualifications for church office outlined in Scripture. The passage reveals that God's church is built not by a single individual but by the collective, Spirit-empowered contributions of all believers, each serving according to their gifts, whether in teaching, craftsmanship, administration, or prayer. The overflowing generosity of the people, motivated by heartfelt devotion rather than obligation, reflects God's ongoing provision and blessing, culminating in the ultimate purpose: the glory of God through Christ, who is the true and eternal tabernacle. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize that God's work in the church is sustained by His grace, not human effort, and that every believer is invited to serve in joyful obedience for His eternal glory.

The sermon centers on the truth that Christ builds His church not through extraordinary means, but through ordinary people, ordinary gifts, and ordinary means—such as the proclamation of the Word, prayer, and sacrificial giving—each empowered by the Holy Spirit. Drawing from Exodus 35, it emphasizes that before Israel built the tabernacle, they were first called to rest in God's Sabbath, underscoring that divine work is not achieved through human striving alone, but through faithful obedience and dependence on God's timing. The passage reveals a community united not by wealth or status, but by a willing heart, where every person—man and woman, skilled and unskilled—contributed according to their gifts, reflecting the body of Christ as a diverse yet unified whole. Ultimately, the tabernacle, though made by human hands, points to Christ, the true and eternal sanctuary, who reconciles humanity to God through His perfect sacrifice. The church, therefore, is built not by grand institutions or elite leaders, but by the faithful, humble participation of ordinary believers, each stewarding their God-given gifts for the sake of His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

The sermon centers on the transformative encounter with God, illustrated through Moses' shining face after meeting with Him on Mount Sinai, which symbolizes the visible impact of divine glory. While the physical radiance was temporary and veiled, the deeper truth revealed through Scripture—especially 2 Corinthians 3—is that the Old Covenant, though holy, was temporary, leading to condemnation and death, and required a veil because it could not impart life or righteousness. In contrast, the New Covenant in Christ is permanent, life-giving, and Spirit-empowered, where the veil of unbelief is removed only through faith in Christ, who fulfills the law and offers righteousness, freedom, and transformation. The ultimate purpose of Scripture is not to point to human effort or moral achievement, but to reveal Christ as the radiant glory of God, whose Spirit renews believers and transforms them into His image. As a result, Christians are called not to rely on their own righteousness, but to behold Christ with unveiled hearts, live in His freedom, and shine His light into a dark world.

This sermon unfolds the renewal of God's covenant with Israel after their sin with the golden calf, revealing God as a sovereign, merciful, and jealous deity whose actions are driven by His own glory and faithfulness. Central to the message is the triune revelation of God as the God of wonders, who performs miraculous deliverance and provision; the jealous God, who demands exclusive devotion and warns against idolatry through vivid metaphors of spiritual adultery; and the faithful Provider, who establishes feasts, rest, and land as tangible signs of His covenantal care. The sermon interprets these ancient laws and rituals as pointing forward to Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of Passover, Pentecost, and the final harvest, in whom all of God's wonders, jealous love, and provision converge. Through Christ, the broken covenant is restored, the law is fulfilled, and believers are called to trust, love, and rest in Him alone.

The sermon centers on the unchanging character of God as revealed in Exodus 34, where God proclaims Himself as merciful, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, forgiving iniquity yet justly holding the guilty accountable. It emphasizes that true worship arises not from a superficial relationship but from a deep, doctrinal understanding of who God is—revealed consistently throughout Scripture and fully embodied in Jesus Christ, who satisfies both divine justice and mercy at the cross. The preacher argues that many misunderstand God as merely loving or tolerant, but the biblical God is both holy and compassionate, requiring repentance while offering grace, and calls believers to respond with humble worship, not because of their worth, but because of God's eternal faithfulness. Christ's incarnation, sacrifice, and future judgment fulfill God's character, demonstrating that He is not a changing deity but the eternal, unchanging source of all righteousness and redemption, worthy of eternal praise.

This sermon centers on Exodus 34, revealing God's character as merciful, gracious, and faithful, yet holy and just, through the renewal of His covenant with Israel after their idolatry with the golden calf. It unfolds four key aspects of God's covenantal relationship: mediation through Moses, who foreshadows Christ as the ultimate intercessor; revelation through God's written Word, which is divinely inspired and essential for knowing God's true nature; condescension, as God descends in glory to meet humanity, prefiguring Christ's incarnation; and the proclamation of God's personal name, Yahweh, which signifies His eternal, covenant-keeping identity and demands worship and honor. The sermon emphasizes that only through Christ—our true mediator, revelation, and the full embodiment of God's name—can sinners find forgiveness, reconciliation, and the assurance of God's presence. Ultimately, it calls listeners not merely to know about God, but to personally trust in Christ as Lord and Savior, responding in worship and faith.

The sermon emphasizes the importance of imitating good and avoiding evil, drawing from the epistle of 3 John to illustrate the contrast between faithful believers like Gaius and those who prioritize self-interest, such as Diotrephes. It underscores the value of a good testimony, both from outsiders and from the truth itself, and highlights the significance of genuine friendship and community within the church, reminding listeners that even in times of adversity, they can find solace and strength in Christ's unwavering presence and the support of fellow believers, ultimately encouraging a life of faithful obedience and joyful devotion.

The sermon explores the profound importance of God's presence, drawing from Exodus 33 to illustrate how individuals and communities long for divine nearness. It emphasizes that while direct, unmediated access to God's glory is impossible for humanity, God's presence offers direction, rest, and a deeper understanding of His character, revealed through covenants and ultimately embodied in Christ. The message underscores that true connection with God isn't found in outward displays but in hearing and understanding His word, recognizing that His goodness and truth are paramount, and ultimately desiring a relationship where His presence shapes and transforms lives.

The sermon explores the reign of King Uzziah (Araziah) of Judah, contextualizing it within the broader history of divided Israel and the cyclical patterns of prosperity and corruption. It highlights Uzziah's initial faithfulness, mirroring his father Amaziah's actions, yet ultimately condemns his transgression of entering the temple to perform priestly duties, resulting in leprosy and a period of co-regency with his son Jotham. The narrative underscores the importance of adhering to God's prescribed worship practices and emphasizes the sovereignty of God, who remains on his throne even amidst human failings, while also foreshadowing future judgment and ruin for Judah, ultimately pointing towards the hope of a future king who will fulfill God's promises.

The sermon explores the importance of faithfulness and discernment within the church, drawing from 3 John to contrast the welcoming hospitality of Gaius with the prideful and obstructive behavior of Diotrephes. It emphasizes the necessity of submitting to Christ's authority, upholding biblical truth, and welcoming those who proclaim the gospel, while warning against the dangers of self-promotion, exclusion, and the spread of false teachings. Ultimately, the message calls for vigilance against spiritual error and a commitment to embodying humility and genuine fellowship in service to Christ.

The sermon explores the aftermath of the Golden Calf incident, highlighting the gravity of idolatry and the people's stiff-necked resistance to God's presence. Drawing from Exodus, it examines Moses' intercession for the people, emphasizing that true salvation isn's merely atonement for sin, but a longing for unbroken communion with God. The message underscores the disastrous consequences of rejecting God's presence, contrasting the allure of earthly promises with the ultimate desire for eternal fellowship with Christ, urging listeners to seek Him above all else and to recognize that true heaven is found in His presence.

The sermon examines the reign of Jeroboam II, highlighting the deceptive nature of outward prosperity and military success, even within a wicked king. It contrasts external achievements with underlying spiritual corruption, emphasizing that God's allowance of temporary success does not equate to divine approval and serves as a reminder that true faithfulness lies in obedience to God's word, not in worldly achievements. The message draws parallels to Jonah's story and challenges listeners to measure their lives and churches by God's standards of spiritual maturity and faithfulness, rather than by external metrics of success and influence, ultimately urging a focus on seeking God's kingdom above all else.

The sermon emphasizes the importance of hospitality and generosity as hallmarks of a Christian life and community, drawing from the example of Gaius who welcomed strangers and supported missionaries. It highlights that a Christian home, like a Christian life, should reflect compassionate qualities such as kindness, humility, patience, and forgiveness, mirroring the attributes of Christ. The message underscores the vital role of supporting those who spread the gospel, recognizing that their efforts contribute to the growth of the church and the fulfillment of Christ's mission, ultimately demonstrating a faithful commitment to serving God and one another.

The sermon explores the narrative of the golden calf, highlighting the gravity of sin and the consequences of straying from God's commands. It examines the roles of Aaron and Moses, emphasizing the importance of leadership and the danger of misrepresenting God's will. The message underscores the need for genuine worship, rooted in truth and obedience, and contrasts the judgment of God with the grace offered through Christ, who serves as the ultimate mediator, bearing the weight of sin and offering forgiveness and hope to those who believe.

The sermon emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the faithfulness of believers, drawing from 3 John to highlight the joy derived from witnessing others walk in truth. It explores the significance of prayer, urging listeners to seek God's blessing not only for physical health but also for spiritual well-being and a deeper understanding of His word. The message underscores the value of hospitality and supporting those who proclaim the gospel, while also challenging listeners to prioritize spiritual growth and genuine faith over worldly achievements, ultimately calling for a renewed commitment to seeking and celebrating truth in all aspects of life.

The sermon explores the consequences of Israel's idolatry, focusing on the dramatic scene where Moses breaks the tablets of the covenant after witnessing the people's worship of a golden calf. It highlights the role of Moses as a mediator, both saving the people from immediate destruction and delivering judgment through symbolic acts like grinding the idol into powder and mixing it with water. The passage underscores the seriousness of covenant violation and the importance of worshipping God according to His commands, ultimately pointing towards Christ as the ultimate mediator who bears the consequences of sin, offering forgiveness and a renewed covenant through faith.

The sermon explores the concept of resurrection throughout the Old Testament, demonstrating its significance beyond mere physical revival. Drawing from passages like Genesis, Ezekiel, and the Psalms, it highlights God's consistent promise of life emerging from death, culminating in the ultimate fulfillment through Jesus Christ. The message emphasizes the importance of understanding the resurrection as a central theme in Scripture, not just as a future event, but as a present reality that shapes our hope and perspective, ultimately pointing to the promise of eternal life and the assurance of God's power over death.

The sermon addresses the pervasive issue of loneliness in contemporary society, contrasting the superficial connections fostered by social media with the deep-seated human need for genuine, face-to-face fellowship. Drawing from Scripture, particularly 2 John and Genesis 2, it emphasizes the importance of communal worship and intentional relationships as antidotes to isolation, highlighting the biblical understanding that true connection stems from shared faith and mutual support within the body of Christ. Ultimately, the message calls for proactive engagement with those experiencing loneliness and a renewed commitment to prioritizing in-person interactions and corporate worship as essential expressions of Christian love and discipleship.

The sermon explores the Israelites' creation of a golden calf and their subsequent worship, highlighting the contrast between their invented idolatry and the true worship God desires. Examining God's righteous anger and Moses' intercession, it emphasizes the importance of mediation and the role of Jesus Christ as the ultimate mediator who bears the wrath intended for humanity. Ultimately, the message underscores the necessity of offering acceptable worship to God with reverence and awe, recognizing Him as both Creator and Redeemer, and striving to glorify Him in all aspects of life.

The sermon examines the reign of King Joash of Israel, highlighting a pattern of decline and repeated disobedience to God despite promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It explores the cyclical nature of Israel's history, marked by kings who perpetuate idolatry and disregard prophetic warnings, while also noting the occasional glimmer of hope, such as Joash's military victories and the miraculous resurrection story of a man touched by Elisha's bones. Ultimately, the narrative underscores God's enduring, yet conditional, faithfulness to His covenant, and the looming consequences of Israel's continued rejection of His ways, leaving a somber reflection on the nation's trajectory.

The sermon warns against the deceptive influence of false teachers who deny the incarnate Christ, emphasizing the importance of remaining steadfast in the teaching of Christ to avoid spiritual deviation and participate in wickedness. It cautions against both moving ahead without adhering to sound doctrine and welcoming those who reject it, highlighting the need for discernment and disciplined action within the church to maintain purity and faithfully proclaim the gospel, ultimately urging believers to remain rooted in Christ and His teachings to avoid spiritual compromise and division.

The sermon explores the Israelites' creation and worship of a golden calf while Moses received the Ten Commandments, illustrating humanity's persistent temptation to seek immediate gratification and create idols rather than trusting in God's timing and design. Drawing on passages from Exodus and theological reflections, the message emphasizes the dangers of impatience, stubborn refusal, and blatant violation of God's commands, highlighting the need to pursue true worship—centered on God's revealed truth and offered in spirit and truth—rather than seeking entertainment or inventing personal expressions of faith. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a renewed commitment to worshipping the one true God, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking to glorify Him in all aspects of life.

The sermon explores the cyclical pattern of the Northern and Southern Kingdoms in Israel, contrasting their responses to God's sovereignty and judgment. It highlights Israel's persistent rebellion, echoing their fathers' stubbornness, despite God's repeated interventions and warnings. The narrative examines the reign of Jehoahaz, noting his adherence to the sinful practices of Jeroboam, even after receiving a temporary deliverance from Syria, illustrating that external salvation does not guarantee internal transformation. Ultimately, the sermon underscores the importance of genuine repentance and a heart turned towards God, contrasting fleeting temporal relief with the enduring call to a life of faithful worship and obedience.

The sermon emphasizes the enduring importance of observing the Sabbath, rooted in God's covenant with Israel and applicable to believers today. Drawing from Exodus 31, it highlights the Sabbath not as a burden of legalism, but as a gift of rest, a sign of God's sanctifying work through His Word, and a reminder of His creative power. The message underscores the need to prioritize this day for worship, rest, and spiritual renewal, resisting the temptation to neglect it and instead embracing it as a means of encountering God's grace and experiencing His restorative presence.

The sermon explores the divine appointment and empowerment of ordinary individuals, exemplified by Bezail and Aholiab, who were tasked with constructing the tabernacle according to God's precise instructions. It emphasizes that God utilizes not supernatural abilities, but rather the Spirit's anointing and the faithful application of ordinary means—skill, materials, and obedience to His word—to accomplish His purposes. Ultimately, the message highlights Christ as the true builder of His church, emphasizing that true worship and service are rooted in God's design and ultimately bring glory to Him, reflecting a call to embrace our own roles in building His kingdom through faithful obedience and reliance on His Spirit.

The sermon explores the significance of sacred anointing and incense as described in Exodus, highlighting their role in worship and God's presence. It emphasizes that these rituals, involving specific spices and oils, were set apart for a holy purpose, marking a distinction between those who are set apart for God and those who are not. Drawing parallels to Jesus Christ's life and ministry, the message ultimately calls listeners to embrace their own roles as 'aromas of Christ,' proclaiming His knowledge and fragrance to a world in need of redemption, while also recognizing the sober reality of separation for those who reject Him.

This sermon examines the reign of King Joash, highlighting his initial reforms guided by the priest Jehoiada, and the subsequent challenges of maintaining faithfulness amidst political pressures. The speaker analyzes the financial practices of the time, emphasizing the importance of honest stewardship and the dangers of compromising with worldly powers, ultimately drawing parallels to the enduring hope for a righteous king promised in David's lineage. The narrative underscores the contrast between Joash's actions and the enduring hope for a king who embodies faithfulness and offers a glimpse of Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of that hope, offering salvation and eternal life to those who eagerly await His return.

The sermon emphasizes the importance of steadfast faith amidst a world rife with deception and division, drawing from 2 John to caution against those who deny the incarnate Christ. It highlights historical examples of church splits and individual failings, underscoring that while salvation is secure through God's grace, vigilance and a longing for Christ are essential to avoid being misled and to ultimately receive the full reward of eternal fellowship with Him. The message encourages listeners to remain rooted in truth, recognizing that true reward lies not in worldly pursuits but in the unchanging presence and glory of Christ.

This sermon explores the contrasting reigns of Judah and Israel, highlighting the dangers of pride and the importance of covenant faithfulness. It examines the story of King Amaziah, whose initial successes were undermined by arrogance and ultimately led to defeat and death, emphasizing that obedience in one area does not excuse compromise in others. The narrative underscores the value of humility, drawing parallels to the example of Christ, and reminds listeners that true leadership involves seeking God's guidance and remaining committed to His word, particularly as the people of God face exile and long for a righteous king.

The sermon emphasizes the importance of persevering in faith, urging listeners to actively pursue truth, demonstrate love, and consistently obey God's commandments. Drawing from 2 John, it highlights the joy found in witnessing others walk in truth, even amidst deception, and underscores the significance of love as a defining characteristic of discipleship, mirroring Christ's own selfless love for the church. The message encourages continued spiritual progress, likening it to a journey toward heaven, and calls for steadfastness in faith, reminding listeners that obedience to God's word is the path to fulfilling their calling and bearing fruit in their lives.

The sermon explores the significance of a bronze basin described in Exodus, drawing parallels to the Christian concepts of justification and sanctification. It emphasizes that while justification, or being declared righteous through Christ's sacrifice, is a pivotal moment, ongoing sanctification—a continual cleansing and dying to sin—is equally vital. Drawing on the Westminster Shorter Catechism and A.W. Pink, the message clarifies that justification is a legal status, while sanctification is a process of transformation, urging listeners to embrace repentance and rely on the Holy Spirit for ongoing renewal, ultimately pointing to Christ as both the altar of sacrifice and the source of cleansing.