The Battle and The Bride

Where did the Pharisees and Sadducees come from? Who is King Herod and how did he come to power? Few people understand why the landscape has changed so drastically as we turn the page from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Most people don't understand that 400 years have passed from the time of the book of Malachi to the announcements of the angel Gabriel to Zachariah and Mary. What happened in that 400 years? Why is it known as the 400 years of silence? In this special Advent episode, we answer all those questions and more! FYI - I recorded this episode about 8 years ago when I first had aspirations of starting a podcast. It was one of five that I never released. So, my style and approach is a little...different. But I hope it's still a fun and educational listen

The Doctrines of Grains season 1 finale is one for the books with our first guest ever, Ben Garrett. Ben is a deacon at Refuge Church in Ogden, Utah, and co-hosts the Haunted Cosmos podcast with his friend and pastor, Brian Sauve. In season 1, we've talked a lot about feasting in many forms, and Ben jumped on to help us understand how to take that Biblical concept and apply it to almost every aspect of our life. And he brought some napalm-level truth bombs that you don't want to miss! We also finish this season with a review of Horton Vineyards' Vintage Port, which is the only port made in Virginia that can truly be called a port! If you're going to be feasting this holiday season, this is a bottle you'll want to have at the table along with your friends and family. Have any suggestions for season 2? Email us at doctrines0fgrains@gmail.com Special thanks, as always, to Scythian for allowing us the usage of their music for our episodes.

Seth and Cole return for episode 7 of Doctrines of Grains! In this spiciest of spicy episodes, we review an American Pale Ale by Vibrissa Brewery - located in Seth's hometown! We also discuss whether or not Christians should be using wine for communion - and the connection that grape juice has to first-wave feminism. And finally, we get into Chapter 3 of Calvin's first book of the Institutes, which dives into the concept that all men are naturally born with this knowledge of God imprinted upon their very minds. It's a great discussion on a foundational principle of presuppositional apologetics! You won't want to miss a single second!

What does it mean for man to know God? What are the implications of knowing God? And is it possible to know God as the Creator, but deny him as Redeemer? We will encounter these glorious truths in greater detail as we continue our foray through John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion. We'll also discuss the Bud Light Controversy - and the many tiny compromises it took us to get here. But we'll also review a GREAT beer in contrast: the James Bean porter from James River Brewery in Scottsville, Virginia. Don't miss it!

Seth and Cole are back! AND they're back in the Institutes of the Christian Religion! Have you ever read chapter 1 of Calvin's Institutes? It's a goodun! Join the Doctrines of Grains crew as they dive into the Apostle's Creed, Chapter 1 of the Institutes of the Christian Religion, and review Morning Glow, a delicious blonde ale from Swamp Head Brewery.

Have you ever considered how Christianity could influence every area of life? Did you ever think how that could effect the world through...BEER?? In this episode, Cole and Seth review Stephen Mansfield's The Search for God and Guinness, and they discuss the far-reaching implications of the theology that influenced Arthur Guinness - a mindset that changed the industry, the nation, and the world because of Christ Jesus.

Is there something you are waiting for? Have you a call on your heart from the Lord, but the doors seem closed? Does nothing go as planned? In a very raw post, I discuss my own trials in the past year as I seek to fulfill God's call to plant a House Church. But I also discuss how I view those trials in the light of the Lord of Time, Jesus Christ.

What drives the heart of a Christian? What comfort or assurance can be given to high schoolers about to leave the safety of their hometown, and suddenly be immersed in the free-for-all of college life? Addressing the high school graduates and congregation of Compass Community Church, Pastor Seth Dean answers this question in light of the Apostle Peter's statements in the 3rd chapter of his first epistle. In order to stand firm in the face of violent trials and persecutions - even the jeering of fellow students for trusting in Christ - a Christian must honor Jesus Christ as Lord. Many messages have been preached on this passage - many times the focus has been of an apologetic nature. And especially when we're considering sending teenagers off to campuses of both Christian and secular colleges, men in the pulpit like to drive into them the idea of being ready to defend their faith. Now, there is nothing wrong with that. But in my experience, young men and women who have been told that this is the beginning of their independence and subsequently their adult lives, are often thinking less and less of defending the Christian faith and thinking more and more about what their future looks like. Now is a time when they are dreaming of what they will do for themselves. And this isn't bad in and of itself. It is good to consider the future. It is good to think on the big questions and imagine the best outcomes: excelling in your field, finding the perfect job, finally finding that ever-longed-for spouse, and laying a good foundation for your future. There is nothing wrong with that at all, unless you are considering all of this in the idea of throwing off the faith of your fathers in pursuit of these material blessings. Or perhaps you aren't considering abandoning it altogether, but are aware of your own frail weakness - and feel wholly unprepared to speak on behalf of Jesus Christ or in defense of Him lest you make a mockery of yourself or your faith. Or perhaps you are firm in your faith, trusting completely in the meritorious work of Jesus Christ on the cross, but have trepidation about what to do if this situation should arise or that situation - what to do if your faith should lead you to be reviled by others. This message is for all of you. In fact, it is a message for the entire Church. It strikes not at man's will to simply weather a storm. Rather, it calls to the man's heart. For, as our Lord says,"A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” “[Luk 6:45 NKJV] So, this message is to all of us who call ourselves Christians, but who struggle with proclaiming the excellencies who called us out of the kingdom of darkness and into the kingdom of His Marvelous Light. Sermon preached at Compass Community Church on June 4, 2023. For more information on that church, please contact Pastor Lee Reems at lee@wercompass.org

Pastor Seth Dean, a recent graduate from Reformation Seminary, shares his heart and his vision for planting a biblical house church in Newport News, Virginia while preaching at Compass Community Church in Cross Junction, VA. Newport News is a large city that is "white for harvest." The planting of a biblical house church that aims to serve the Lord, while engaging the lost and dying of the world, would be critical. However, we need more families to help us plant. Would you commit to praying for us? Pray that the Lord would send more workers into this field who would come alongside us to plant this church, and pray that we would have discernment in knowing the sheep from the wolves. Are you interested in joining us in planting? Do you live in Newport News or are you looking to relocate to the area for this purpose? If so, please email thebattleandthebride@gmail.com, so we can begin a conversation. Recorded at Compass Community Church on June 4, 2023. Compass is pastored by Lee Reems. They are a faithful church that meets at the Lake Holiday Clubhouse in Cross Junction, Virginia at 10:00 AM every Sunday.

Many Christians call themselves Reformed. John Calvin's mighty work, The Institutes of the Christian Religion, is at the foundation of Reformation thinking. However, few people nowadays have read this weighty tome. Instead of relying on the word of others, we are embarking on the great journey of working through it piece by piece, chapter by chapter, and we're inviting you to join us!  Today, we begin by reading through John Calvin's Preface to the First Edition, written and sent to King Francis I of France as an appeal against the accusations and persecutions of the Roman Catholics. He does this by working through 7 responses to their objections of Protestant thinking. They are masterful, brutal, and still applicable today.  We also review the Bowman Bros. Pioneer Spirit Small Batch Bourbon and discuss Historic Localism as a Chaser.  Special thanks to Scythian for the continued use of their music in our episodes:Broken String from the album Roots and StonesWhiskey from the album It's Not Too LateVirginia from their single Virginia I Saw Three Ships from their album Christmas Out at Sea

There is a widespread belief among Christians that drinking alcohol, in and of itself, is a sin. But, is this truly the case? Is drinking alcohol a sin? Can it be used to glorify God? What does the Bible have to say about these things? In today's episode, Seth and Cole discuss these questions, Christian localism, and develop a theology of alcohol (with some help from the Theopolis Institute) all while enjoying the Nut Brown Ale from St. George's Brewing Co. in Hampton, Virginia. Articles referenced: Concerning Wine and Beer by Jeff Meyers The Theology of the Drink Offering by Peter Leithart The song, Broken String, used with permission from Scythian. The song is available on their album Roots and Stones.

C.G. Billiot of the Christus Rex Blogcast and Seth Dean of The Battle and The Bride join forces to review beer and talk theology in this new show Doctrines of Grains. In this first episode, Seth and Cole review Tradition Brewing Co's Continental Divide Double IPA while discussing what happened in their lives to draw them both (reluctantly) to Reformed Theology and ultimately Calvinism. C.G. Billiot runs the Repent for Christendom website and hosts the Christus Rex Blogcast Seth Dean runs The Battle and The Bride and its podcast Special thanks to Scythian for the use of their song Broken String from their album Roots and Stones.

How does a Biblical wife respond when calamity strikes her family? Or when her husband loses the sole source of income that pays the bills? How does she remain faithful to God and her husband, even when the trials are great? To answer these questions and more, I sit down with my wife, The Hospitable Bride, and discuss the emotions she dealt with and the temptations she fought after I lost my job. She offers a Biblical perspective on how to stay grounded in the truth of God's Word while remaining hopeful and joyful during a season of many trials. You don't want to miss it! Follow her on Instagram: @thehospitablebride

Many fierce mariners have braved the high seas through the millennia for God, Gold, and Glory. Combatting foes or combatting torrential waves, no man has conquered that vast frontier which covers 80% of the world's surface; that is, except one man: The God-man, Christ Jesus- Our King and Savior. As we shall see, He who walked on water is He who tramples on death; and He who tramples death is He who takes life to the nations; and He who provides this life is indeed the greater Moses, the greater Joshua, and none other than the Great I AM. The point? The bottom line? Take heart Christian, your seafaring King knew exactly what He was doing to reveal the Father to the nations- and that includes you. “The knowledge of Yahweh shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea,” says Isaiah 11:9- may we dare to trust the Lord's claim to triumphant victory over the seas, that is, over the nations. FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE CG Billiot runs the website repentforchristendom.org. He is also the host of the weekly podcast ChristusRex Blogcast. You can follow him on Instagram @rex.christus_

Money is a tool that God gives us to accomplish his will. However, if not thought of properly, it may cause us anxiety. If the Christian can think properly about who God is and who they are in Christ, it will bring them peace as they make decisions about giving and receiving. Christ has transformed us into a kingdom of priests who trust in God to supply their needs, and who give and receive freely out of love in order to aid one another in times of distress. In Philippians 4:10-23, Paul teaches us three principles of giving and receiving, so that we can rest in God and minister to one another in all seasons of life. Exegetical Outline Learning Contentment Giving & the Priestly Office God's Infinite Riches Sermon preached at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church in Hampton, VA on January 29, 2023

What does it mean for a Christian to meditate? How does that impact our daily lives? In Philippians 4:8-9, Paul reiterates two truths that reinforce the reality that the way a Christian thinks will inform the way a Christian acts, so that we can think rightly and live righteously, in unity, to the glory of God. The Christian who sets their mind upon Christ, will live as a Christian should live, becoming an example of Christ to all. Exegetical Outline: Filling Your Mind Exemplary Living Exemplified

We face an abundance of trials, discouragements, and worries every single day. It could be relationships that have been severed; it could be loss, abandonment, or some other dire situation; we could be racked with anxiety over numerous issues in our lives. Whatever the situation, this passage of Scripture gives the Christian tremendous hope and solace. In Christ alone does a Christian find joy, peace, and security in all circumstances of life. In Philippians 4:2-7, Paul teaches us 3 real principles of our life in Christ that enable us to live quiet, peaceful, and joyful lives. The Urgency of Unity (v2-3) The Ever-Rejoicing Christian (v4-5) The Powerful Peace of God (v6-7) Sermon preached 1-15-2023 at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church in Hampton, VA

MAIN IDEA: The King calls men to further the ministry of the Kingdom of Heaven. In Matthew 9:35-10:1, we are shown 4 kingly actions by Jesus which teach us about the power and authority of ministers of the Kingdom of Heaven, so that we can be confident in our labors for Christ our King. EXEGETICAL OUTLINE: The Ministry of the King The Compassion of the King The Command of the King The Call of the King Sermons preached on January 8, 2023 at Emmaus Church in Berryville, VA

MAIN IDEA: The King calls men to further the ministry of the Kingdom of Heaven. In Matthew 9:35-10:1, we are shown 4 kingly actions by Jesus which teach us about the power and authority of ministers of the Kingdom of Heaven, so that we can be confident in our labors for Christ our King. EXEGETICAL OUTLINE: The Ministry of the King The Compassion of the King The Command of the King The Call of the King Sermon preached on January 8, 2023 at Living Water United Brethren in Christ Church in Winchester, VA

As I'm preparing this sermon, it is the Advent season. At this time, we celebrate the incarnation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We find ourselves reading often from the book of Luke. If you've grown up in the church, then much of the first chapters have probably been committed in some way to memory. And when passages become familiar on an extremely basic level, we can fall into the error of tuning out when the matter is preached on again. And when that happens, even if we're reading it for ourselves, we will overlook monumental truths that have been purposely written into the text by the writers through the prompting of the Holy Spirit. We miss key plot points because we suddenly think we're just taking in information. Instead, the Lord has given writers, such as Luke (Paul's physician, and missionary companion), the ability to explain life-changing truths in distilled and impactful ways, so that we can live in them. This passage is one such passage, and it is so impactful because it conveys an earth-shattering declaration by Jesus and builds upon themes and ideas that were already laid down in the previous chapters. What is that earth-shattering truth? MAIN IDEA: Jesus is the Christ. In Luke 4:14-21, Luke teaches us the incredible manner in which Jesus announced to his hometown the truth that he is the Anointed One of God, so that we, too, can be sure of his appearing and bold in declaring him to all as the Christ. EXEGETICAL OUTLINE I. The Power of the Spirit (v14-17) II. The Anointed Ministry of the Messiah in a Favorable Year (v18-20) III. The Proclamation (v21) Sermon prepared as part of my Reformation Seminary requirements. Recorded and preached on 12/28/2022

MERRY CHRISTMAS! The King is born! Long live the King! As we've been studying this Advent season, we've looked at several Old Testament promises that God laid down centuries before the birth of Christ. Today, on this Christmas Day, we look at the culmination of all those promises in the birth of our Lord and Savior. In Jesus Christ, all of the promises of God are fulfilled! Luke 1: The Promise Heralded Luke 2: The Promise Born Luke 3: The Promise Anointed What Does this Mean for Us? Sermon preached on 12/25/2022 at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church in Hampton, VA

Sermon preached at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church on December 18, 2022. A great deal of this sermon prep was done from Peter Leithart's book, A House for My Name. Merry Christmas! And as we celebrate Christmas, we join with the angels in the sky declaring, “Glory to the newborn king!” Indeed, we know Jesus bears the title King of kings, Lord of lords. And we're reminded of Handel's Hallelujah Chorus that echoes the Scriptures in declaring that, “He shall reign forever and ever! Hallelujah!” What a mighty declaration that is both simple yet incredibly profound. And yet it is not as simple as making a statement that Christ is King. There have been many men throughout history who have ascended to places of power and declared themselves to be almighty ruler. As reformed protestants, our history is rooted in the recognition of one such usurpation found within the papal office. If I declare that I am king of the world from this pulpit, it doesn't make it so. If I declare that I have the historical authority to rule as king of the world, it does not make it true. But with Jesus, he is King. He does have all authority. He is sovereign Lord. And our Almighty God, in order to help us understand the full ramifications of that reality, laid down Biblical promises and prophecies to prepare us to receive our eternal King, the Lord of Glory, Jesus Christ. As we study this passage, we must recognize that this passage, along with 2 Samuel 7, detail the Davidic covenant. A tremendous amount of time has passed since God's covenant with Abraham. Nearly 1000 years. Around 400 years have passed since the LORD instituted the Passover and lead Israel out of Egypt. All through this time, God never forgot his promises, and has been building his house of Israel up to the point where they would be prepared for a king. In fact, a king was always in the plans. Genesis 49:10 (NKJV) The scepter shall not depart from Judah, Nor a lawgiver from between his feet, Until Shiloh comes; And to Him [shall be] the obedience of the people. Deut 17:14-20 (God's requirements for a king) But in the time of Samuel, the people asked for a king - not because they wanted a man to reign over them in service to the Lord, but in order to lead them like the kings of the other nations. And so Saul was given to them as a judgment. Though he started out strong, Peter Leithart notes that he sinned in 3 ways: 1) against God when he impatiently offered a sacrifice without waiting for Samuel, 2) against Israel when he commanded them to fast during the battle, 3) when he spares the life of king Agag and takes plunder against the Word of the Lord. As a result, God removes the kingdom from Saul, and passes it onto David, a man after his own heart. Immediately, David shows himself a better king than Saul, confronting Goliath who was dressed in scaled armor like a serpent and crushing his head - a foreshadowing of what our mighty King Jesus would do to Satan on the cross. And suffering through many trials and humiliating circumstances for 10 years, David finally ascends to the throne after Saul kills himself in battle, and he begins to establish the kingdom. We come to this passage shortly after David has victoriously brought the Ark of the Covenant up from Obed-Edom's house, and established it in Jerusalem. David makes the declaration to Nathan of his heart's desire to build a house for Yahweh, and as a result, Yahweh makes a promise that finds its final fulfillment in the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of our Lord and King, Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Promised King who is established in God's House and Kingdom forever!

When we gather together during the Advent season with our trimmings and trees, our gifts and parties, with our feasts and singing, we do not often dwell on death. But when Christ was born in Bethlehem to the Virgin Mary and his adopted father Joseph, Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger. These cloths were not customary wrappings for newborns. Instead, they were foreshadowings of the ultimate mission of our Lord Jesus: death. They foreshadowed the burial cloths that he would wear as he was laid in his tomb. The same cloths that would be found by his disciples neatly folded and laid to the side at his resurrection. In his birth, we are reminded that he was born to die. “Mild he lays his glory by, Born that man no more may die. Born to raise us from the earth. Born to give us second birth.” This substitutionary atonement was not a new concept. It was something that had been building since the beginning of history, and was in fact, foreordained before the foundations of Earth itself. The slaying of the Lamb of God. As we continue in our Advent series on the promises of the Old Testament fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, we turn our attention to the people of Israel in dire bondage, 400 years after Abraham. It is in Egypt that God institutes a feast that will find its culmination on Calvary's hill 1500 years later. In this first localized feast, we find the seedling of a promise that will one day impact the entire world. And indeed, that seed has already taken root and has grown into a mighty tree! As Noah's Flood brought judgment upon all flesh, now Jesus' blood has brought salvation to the whole world - to all who would believe on him. MAIN IDEA: Jesus Christ is the promised Passover Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world Today, we're going to take a look at the Lord's institution of the Passover in Exodus 12:1-14 and 26-27, and see how God used this historical event to fulfill his covenant promise to Abraham, then see how the Passover foreshadows the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord, the Lamb of God who Conquers.

Merry Christmas! But what is it about Christmas that makes it so merry? Today, we're going to take a look at Genesis 22:1-19 in 3 parts in order to better understand how Jesus is the promised seed of Abraham, and what that means to us today. Exegetical Outline: I. Who is Abraham? II. The Passage III. Christ: The Blessing to the Nations

DISCLAIMER: I know that today is the first Sunday of Advent. However, this sermon was preached two weeks ago, and never posted due to my travels and graduation. There will be Advent/Christmas posts in the coming weeks. INTRODUCTION: Many people have said that the book of Philippians is all about suffering. I've thought that, too, seeing a pattern of his declarations to rejoice even in the midst of trials. However, as I have continued to study it each week, I have realized that this is only an extension of what Paul had in mind. Paul's letter to the Philippians isn't only about rejoicing in suffering. It is about living. It is about living like a true Christian. MAIN IDEA: This life is not the end for us. Yet while we have it, we must live it for Christ. In Philippians 3:17-4:1 Paul contrasts two different groups of people: the Citizens of Heaven and the Enemies of the Cross of Christ. He does this in order to show the dangers of hell and our hope of resurrection and eternal glory in Christ Jesus our Lord. EXEGETICAL OUTLINE The Pattern of Paul (v17) The Enemies of the Cross (v18-19) The Heavenly Hope of the Citizen Christian (v20-21) Stand Fast in Christ (v4:1) Sermon preached at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church in Hampton Virginia on November 13, 2022

There are many pressures in this world that would seek to discourage or dissuade a believer from continuing on in the faith. In Philippians 3:12-16 Paul teaches us 2 truths about the Christian life, so that we may set our minds on the goal of eternal life and resurrection in Christ, and thus live in such a way as to glorify Christ, no matter the opposition or the cost. The Prize & The Goal (v12-14) The Christian presses on to lay hold of the resurrection and eternal life so as to make it their own because Christ made them his own. The Christian Strives for the Goal and Prize of God's divine call of salvation in Christ Jesus The Mind of a Mature Christian (v15-16) Pressing on is the mature way of thinking for all Christians The Word of God directs us to crucify the flesh and not boast in the marks of self-righteousness (i.e. circumcision) Sermon preached at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church in Hampton, VA on November 6, 2022

A Mature Church is an Orderly Church In 1 Corinthians 14:26-40, Paul teaches Christians 6 practical truths about the proper way for the church to gather in worship of God so that we can grow up into maturity through the edifying use of spiritual gifts and submission to God's commands. The Nature of their Gatherings (Bookend 1) v26 Of Tongues v27-28 Of Prophesy v29-33 Of Women v34-35 The Ignorance of Dissenters v36-38 The Aim of their Worship (Bookend 2) v39-40 This sermon was prepared as an assignment for my Ecclesiology module within Reformation Seminary

In order to know God and obtain His righteousness, you must forsake your vainglorious deeds of self-righteousness and gain Christ. PNP: In Philippians 3:1-11 Paul teaches us about the necessity for abandoning our confidence in the self-righteous deeds of the flesh, hoping that they will make us righteous before God. Instead, he teaches that we must look on those things as rubbish in comparison to the glory of knowing Christ. EXEGETICAL OUTLINE: The Lead In: Rejoice in the Lord (v1) The True Circumcision (v2-4a) The Loss for the Gain (v7-11) [2Ti 2:10-13 NKJV] 10 Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 11 [This is] a faithful saying: For if we died with [Him], We shall also live with [Him]. 12 If we endure, We shall also reign with [Him]. If we deny [Him], He also will deny us. 13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself. Sermon preached at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church in Hampton, VA on 10/23/2022

The strength of the ministry of the church lies in the strength of the men that lead her, so then the leaders that the Church should esteem are the ones willing to live, work, and die for Christ. We'll see this exemplified in Paul's short account of Epaphroditus. In Philippians 2:25-30 Paul commends the man Epaphroditus to the Philippians, relating the dire circumstances around his honorable ministry to himself, and instructing them on how to treat him now that he has returned. OUTLINE His Strength of Character (v25-26) His Sickness & God's Mercy (v27-28) The Command to Esteem Such Men as Him (v29-30) For more sermons, visit The Battle and The Bride Sermon Preached 10/16/2022 at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church in Hampton, Virginia

This is a sermon preached by fellow Reformation Seminary student Phillip Paramore: There is only one true Gospel that always points us to the Lord Jesus and any other Gospel guides men to hell. 1. There is only one Gospel (Everything else is a false counterfeit) 2. False Gospels lead people to hell 3. The true Gospel always points to and glorifies Jesus Christ Application: 1. We must boldly refute false gospels 2. We must have an urgency to boldly proclaim the one true Gospel

The church always needs qualified pastors, but sometimes they are given exceptional men. In Philippians 2:19-24, Paul shows us the qualities he requires of a man that he considers exceptionally qualified to minister to the needs of the church, and he shows us this example in the person of Timothy. EXEGETICAL OUTLINE Encouragement & Care (v19-20) Proven Character (v21-22) Urgency (v23-24) Sermon preached at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church on October 9th, 2022

Our Works Are Wine What does Paul mean when he compares himself and the Philippians to drink offerings? What does the Old Testament have to say about drink offerings, and how does it apply in the New Covenant? In Philippians 2:17-18, Paul teaches us that the Christian can be glad and rejoice even in the most toilsome work because their service is a joyful drink offering poured out to the Lord Jesus Christ, and we all share in drinking that wine with God at his table. The Theology of the Drink Offering by Peter Leithart Concerning Wine and Beer by Jeffery Meyers Sermon preached at Covenant Heritage Reformed Church on October 2, 2022

God empowers the humble Christian to desire and accomplish his will, even while living among manifold temptations, and He enables us to rejoice while doing it. As we continue in our study of Paul's epistle to the Philippians, we are currently in the middle of his teaching on humility and its bearing on the life of a Christian. As he led into this, he emphasized at the end of chapter 1 that it has been granted for them by God to both believe in Christ and to suffer for him. Thus, their salvation being secured, he now goes on to teach them how to live in the midst of that suffering. To do this, he commanded them to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but rather to be unified and hold one another in greater esteem than themselves. And in order to illustrate the necessity for this command, he gave us the illustration of our Lord Jesus Christ, who being truly God, willingly condescended and humbled himself by taking the form of a servant - a man. Thus, being truly God and truly man, he continued to humble himself by being obedient to his Heavenly Father's will unto death on a cross. A death that was intended for us and deserved by us for our sinful rebellion. And yet he went and died willingly in our place. As a result, God highly exalted him - giving him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus Christ every single knee in creation shall bow down in worship, and every single tongue shall open their mouths and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. And in that final point, we also saw the Christian hope of being glorified with him. Now, having given that illustration, Paul now sets out in the next several verses to help them apply that information in practical ways for practical reasons. And this brings us to our passage. In Philippians 2:12-16, Paul teaches us that Christians who maintain an attitude of humility will be empowered by God to rejoice while living obedient and godly lives in the midst of temptations and sufferings. First we will see the transformed will, then we will see how that affects our growth in godliness, and then we will finally see the Christian's ability to rejoice in the work - in the midst of running and laboring. EXEGETICAL OUTLINE The Transformed Will (v12-13) Growing in Godliness (v14-16) Rejoicing in the Work (v16)

In order to live like Christ, you must think like Christ. In Philippians 2:1-11 Paul gives us a command to live in unity and humility and then shows us the example of Christ's humility and exaltation in order to encourage us to live humble lives in the expectation of sharing in eternal glory.

Though Our Hearts Be in Heaven, Our Hands Must Be at Work In Philippians 1:19-30, Paul Teaches 5 Truths About a Christian's Sufferings in Order for Us to Be Hopeful, Fruitful, and Courageous in the Midst of Trials and Persecutions. Hope (v19-20) Determination (v21-22) Conflict (v23-24) Goal (v25-28) Gift (v29-30)

As Christians, we need to be good stewards of our time and resources, being sure that we are walking wisely in all our affairs. From the teachers we learn from to the way we manage our household, walk in love and walk wisely by the power of God through His Holy Spirit. Verse: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. - Ephesians 5:15-16 ESV Recommendations: All Out War Podcast - The guys are doing great work for the Kingdom in helping develop a consistent supernatural worldview, and talking about the kind of stuff that people have questions about. Mail The Gospel - A way to mail the gospel to your friends and family, or buy quality gospel tracts The Philippians Series - Here is the first message

This week's study focuses heavily on the Doctrine of Providence while also looking at the Work of the Holy Spirit, Man's Union with Christ, and Preaching as a means of grace. MAIN IDEA: God uses all circumstances, whether good or bad, pure or selfish, to further the gospel of Jesus Christ. In Philippians 1:12-18 Paul Teaches Us Three Ways in Which the Gospel Advances Despite Adverse Circumstances so that You Can Be Confident and Encouraged That God Will Always Accomplish His Purpose. The Furtherance of the Gospel Despite Paul's Chains Preaching Out of Envy & Goodwill Christ is Preached

In order to live like Jesus Christ and glorify God, a Christian must abound in love so that they can develop good discernment, which produces excellent judgment that leads to blamelessness and righteous living. Philippians 1:9-11 Will Teach You Four Cascading Results of Abounding Christian Love So That You Can Live a Righteous Life to the Glory of God. I. The Abounding Love of the Christian Unto Knowledge and Discernment II. The Abounding Love of the Christian Unto Excellent Judgment III. The Abounding Love of the Christian Unto Blamelessness IV. The Abounding Love of the Christian Bearing the Righteous Fruit of Christ

In Philippians 1:7-8, Paul teaches us that the fellowship of the gospel of Jesus Christ makes ordinary people into saints who share in the grace of God in all circumstances, having their hearts and minds transformed by that grace so that they are able to love the Church and pray for her in the same way as Jesus Christ. The main idea in our passage today is that The Fellowship of the Gospel makes all Christians partakers of the grace of God. We'll see that in three ways. First - A right heart produces right thinking which produces right praying. Secondly - we'll see how Christians who suffer for their faith, defend the faith, or confirm the faith are all partners of grace. Finally, we'll see the Affection of Christ, and how it is HIS heart that should be beating in every Christian for every Christian.

Our hearts and minds can easily be led astray by the cares and worries of this world. The peace of God is given to those who come before his throne boldly through Jesus Christ, and will safeguard you from the anxieties that constantly assail us. Bible Verse: Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV) Recommendations: Trials - Sermon by Martyn Lloyd-Jones (YouTube) It Is Well - Hymn by Horatio G. Spafford (YouTube) Doing the Ashes Work - Hard Men Podcast (Spotify)

I've been asked to fill the pulpit of our local church. As a result, I'll be posting the sermons here on Monday while I still navigate the ins and outs of the job market. This sermon is entitled The Fellowship of the Gospel. Focusing on Philippians 1:1-8, it highlights the primary importance of all churches being part of the fellowship of the Gospel in order to be both praiseworthy and powerful. My prayer is that this blesses you or someone you know.

The devil has always used our thoughts as a vehicle for his lies. This is especially true in hard times and difficult seasons. To safeguard against this, we must constantly guard against those lies with the tools God has given us and with the truth of God found in the Bible. Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 11:3 (ESV) But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. Recommendations: Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones series on Spiritual Depression Great is Thy Faithfulness - Shane & Shane version

God's purposes in our painful situations are often beyond our comprehension. But they are never out of God's control, and they always serve a purpose. It is for the glory of God. Today, we take a look at how the Bible says we should view suffering. Our teaching is from John 11. John 11:20-22 (ESV) 20 So when Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, but Mary remained seated in the house. 21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.” Recommendations: The story of Aggie Hurst Sermon Creation & Providence by RC Sproul Books The Power of Suffering by John MacArthur Anxious for Nothing by John MacArthur

Recently, I lost my job. But does that give me reason to despair? What does the Bible teach us about going through times like these? As I walk through this season, I hope this series of episodes will be an encouragement to anyone who is going through difficult seasons by pointing them to salvation found in Jesus Christ and the truth only found in the Bible. Today, I discuss Psalm 50:23, and the implications of glorifying God in our thanksgiving even in the midst of a crisis. Recommendation: H.B. Charles, Jr. - How to Deal with Discouragement

There are leaders in the church who are happy to lead you to Hell. And there are Christians who are happy to follow them. Jude's epistle is directed towards Christians who are dealing with false teachers who revel in sexual immorality and ultimately deny Jesus Christ as Master and Lord. This is extremely applicable to the church in our day and age as well. Jude 5-7 Will Teach You Three Examples of Jesus' Judgment on Old Testament Rebels So That You Can Know that Jesus Christ is Lord, and then Examine Yourself to See if You Are His. Christ's Judgment on the covenant people of Israel Christ's Judgment on the rebellious angels Christ's Judgement on the gentiles

The authority of Christ Commands the life of every believer. In Jude 1-4, Jude Presents the Authority of Jesus Christ in 4 Ways so that You Can Serve Him Faithfully and Powerfully while Living in the midst of a Generation Facing Judgment. 1) We see his Authority over the salvation of his servants. 2)We see his authority to bestow blessings upon them. 3) We see the mission that Christ gives to his servants. 4) And finally, we see the marks of those rebels who revile his authority.

It's April 2022, and you haven't heard from me in a while. However, that is about to change! Coming soon, I'll be posting on a weekly basis as I focus on preparing texts of scripture for sermons. All this is going to help me prepare for what my weekly workload is going to look like once I plant a church and have to do weekly sermon prep. So look for some episodes on Jude coming soon! Thanks for sticking with us. And God bless!

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Christmas is the time when we celebrate the Incarnation of the Son of God - the Word becoming flesh, and dwelling among us. What does that mean? Why does it matter? What are the ramifications for the rest of humanity now that Jesus Christ is born? The answers are glorious because God is glorious. In this podcast episode, I work through a ton of resources written by the Reformers who searched the scriptures to answers about the natures of Jesus Christ, and the implications of his appearing for the rest of mankind. Jesus Christ is True and Eternal God! Buckle up. This is a long one!

The Heidelberg Catechism gives a clear yet thorough presentation of the gospel. This episode looks at the importance of a Christian supplementing their faith with knowledge, looks at the first 23 questions of the Heidelberg Catechism itself, and even takes a deeper look at the scriptures used to formulate the answer to question one. Questions 1-23 begins at timestamp 11:11 Original Blog Post: The Gospel and The Heidelberg Catechism I've used Crossway's introduction to the Heidelberg Catechism as an information reference, as well as the Westminster Theological Seminary's website, and even GotQuestions.org. When reading the actual excerpts from the catechism (except for the answer to Question 23), I'll be using the version found on the Westminster Theological Seminary's website, which, I believe, is the version currently used by the Canadian and American Reformed Churches. The answer to question 23, I've used the version found in Crossway's ESV Bible, Creeds and Confessions Edition.

Did the Pilgrims come to America, give Indians smallpox blankets, and steal their lands? Did they brutalize the native people of the land in order to get what they wanted? That's what a lot of people believe today, but it is absolutely a lie. Listen in to this episode where I look at the very birds-eye view of the History of Thanksgiving, and discuss the Church's responsibility for loudly proclaiming the truth. Happy Thanksgiving! Books Referenced: The American Puritans Of Plymouth Plantation Mourts Relation Helpful Websites: MayflowerHistory.com

Part 2 in our series, “Christian, What Do You Believe?” This episode takes a look at the Biblical exhortation to train up children in the fear and knowledge of God, and it takes a look at how Martin Luther formulated his Large and Short Catechisms in such a way as to communicate all the Christian life into just a handful of sections: The Ten Commandments, The Apostles Creed, and The Lord's Prayer. However, the teachings that he supplies with these segments is beyond comparison to today's average preacher, and well worth your time to study them. For the original post: https://www.thebattleandthebride.com/battle/luthers-large-catechism All quotes taken from The Book of Concord: https://bookofconcord.org/large-catechism/