Sovereign Grace Church of Apex, NC

Being Filled With the Spirit (Acts 8:1-25)

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 14:40:20 CDT

The Holy Spirit is the promised gift of the Father to his people. While all Christians are given the Holy Spirit, we may be filled with the Holy Spirit in greater degrees and from time to time. As Christians, we should desire and continually pursue being filled with the Holy Spirit.

He Is Able (Jude 24-25)

Sun, 21 Sep 2008 15:45:17 CDT

God's sovereign power and authority cover not only our salvation, but all of live. He made all things and keeps all things. Jude reminds us that God's sovereign power extends to His keeping us from stumbling, and bringing us to eternal joy in his presence. And not only is God able to keep us, but He desires and intends to keep us.

The Gift of Tongues

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 14:09:30 CDT

Dr. Storms describes the gift of speaking in tongues from 1 Corinthians 14.

Gifts of the Spirit

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 14:10:12 CDT

Dr. Storms reviews the nature and purposes of seven of the nine gifts of the Spirit mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12. For the gift of prophecy, see the Sunday sermon from September 14th. For the gift of tongues, see the seminar session following this one.

24 Reasons To Be a Continuationist

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 22:18:29 CDT

Dr. Sam Storms introduces our Spiritual Gifts seminar with a message detailing 12 bad reasons to be a cessationist and 12 good reasons to be a continuationist.

A Reformed-Charismatic Approach to Prophecy

Sun, 14 Sep 2008 21:10:01 CDT

God is still giving the gift of prophecy to his people; we should desire all gifts and the gift of prophecy in particular; and we should strive to practice this gift in obedience to scripture. Prophecy as practiced in the NT church was primarily concerned with the edification, encouragement and consolation of God's people rather than with prediction of the future. Contrasted with the gift of tongues, although both gifts are equally a work of the Holy Spirit, prophecy is able to be understood by all; it is addressed towards people rather than towards God; it builds up not only the speaker but also the hearers; and it convicts unbelievers. Phil also discusses some practicals of prophecy in the Lord's day meeting in our church.

A Reformed-Charismatic Approach to Guidance

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:07:25 CDT

We need guidance as we walk through life and as we face decisions because we are sinners -- we are prone to self-deception and to walking in unbelief and disobedience -- and because we are creatures -- we are limited in our understanding, wisdom, and foresight, being dependent on God. There are three ways that God has provided to us to understand his will and obtain guidance from him. First, we obtain guidance from his word, which provides us with commands that direct and limit what we do, and which also provides us with clear principles that we must follow as we live. Second, we obtain guidance by discerning God's will, by learning and cultivating wisdom from his word, and by seeking out counsel as we seek to make wise and informed decisions. Finally, we obtain guidance by waiting on the Lord, by seeking him in prayer and asking for direct and specific guidance.

A Reformed-Charismatic Approach to Sanctification

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 13:10:01 CDT

Sanctification is progressively being made like Christ. It is a work of grace, but one which the believe cooperates with, unlike salvation which is purely the work of God, faith and repentance being merely our response to that work. Justification is instantaneous and complete; sanctification is progressive and incomplete until we are glorified in heaven. Justification means the end of the unconquerable dominion of sin; sanctification is the gradual growth in the power and desire to obey. Biblically, our greatest enemy is sin, the flesh; it is not the devil and our circumstances, though these can introduce temptations to us. Sancitification is a work of man and requires us to renounce sin (Tit 2:11f), mortify sin (Col 3:5), and cannot be done casually. Thus, we need to recognize that because of the power of sin, even things that are biblically allowable might be for us unhelpful and lead to further temptations. These we need to remove from our lives. This fight also must be specific. Sanctification is also a work of God and requires the Holy Spirit (Phil 2:13). We are dependent upon him to understand and love God's word, to walk in obedience, and thus we need to pray regularly to be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18).

A Reformed-Charismatic Approach to Worship

Sun, 24 Aug 2008 19:10:59 CDT

Worship is first drawing near to God through the blood of Christ, something we should not take for granted, since before Christ's victory over sin very few people had the privilege of drawing near to God. In our worship, we are to commune with God through the means of grace, such as preaching, God's word, baptism, the Lord's supper. But we are also to encounter and experience God through the work of the Holy Spirit as expressed through the gifts of the spirit -- God is truly near to his people, and is present in corporate worship in a unique way.

A Reformed-Charismatic Approach to Suffering

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:12:27 CDT

Suffering is an inescapable part of life in a fallen world. If we are not suffering presently, we will certainly encounter it at some point. We must prepare our hearts and minds to approach suffering with faith in God. Three anchors serve to help us hold firm in times of suffering. First, we know that God is sovereign over all things, even our suffering. Second, we know that God uses our suffering, for his own glory but also for our own good, to produce the peaceful fruit of righteousness in us. Finally, we know that God answers prayer, and we do not simply pray to endure our suffering, but we persistently appeal to him in faith to deliver us from it. God is near to us in our suffering, and desires that we would turn to him as our only refuge in suffering.

A Reformed-Charismatic Approach to Prayer

Sun, 10 Aug 2008 23:04:01 CDT

Prayer is communion with God, and God desires that we approach him as confident seekers when we pray. We are to be confident in God's presence because we come in the name of Jesus Christ, our mediator and advocate. We are confident to make requests of him because we are not simply allowed but welcomed to make requests; we should pray with the expectation that God's spirit will move and intervene. And we are to pray with confidence in God's sovereignty, knowing that not only is he in complete control of all things, but he is good and wise and loving.

A Reformed-Charismatic Approach to Our Bible

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 13:47:02 CDT

This is the first message in a series of messages on what it means to be both reformed and charismatic. These are Christian distinctives that you don't often find in combination. Each has its own particular stereotypes and its own unique tendencies, strengths and weaknesses; we believe that at their best, both positions are biblical, and our goal will be to capture and embrace the strengths of both as we see them in Scripture.

In the way that reformed believers approach Scripture, one of their particular strengths is to emphasize the truth, authority, infallibility, sufficiency, and God-breathed nature of scripture. Scripture is God's word to us and it is our source of truth and it is our authority in all matters of life and death. Scripture is to serve as the one objective measure by which we judge all other subjective matters of experience.

In the way that charismatic believers approach Scripture, one of their particular strengths is to emphasize the effect that Scripture is to have on us, and the proper response that we are to have. In our reading of scripture God is communicating not merely truth to us, but also encouragement, comfort and hope, as well as warnings and admonition. Scripture is to cause us to grow in joy, contentment, peace, humility. It is to change us, bring wisdom to our foolishness, and speak to every area of our lives.

Fortunately, we do not have to choose between these two! We are to eagerly study Scripture as our source of truth, and we are to hungrily apply that truth to our lives as we grow in faith and affection for God, resulting in worship toward him.

Making Known His Worth

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 06:40:28 CDT

Worship is giving glory to the God of all glory who is revealing his glory to all. We see that God is glorious, beautiful, majestic, holy in his person and character; beyond this, everything that he does is done to display, reveal, and showcase his glory. It is a good thing that God is working for his own glory; creation is blessed, and we are blessed, when God seeks his own glory. The proper response for us as we see God's glory is to give glory to him, in worship and praise.

Making Known His Gospel

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 06:05:37 CDT

Evangelism is preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ; we become mouthpieces of God's message of mercy for sinners. All believers are called to be witnesses for Christ. The gospel is a story about God -- his glory, holiness, righteousness and justice. It is a story about man, enslaved to sin and in rebellion against God. It is a story about Jesus, who atoned for our sin and reconciled us to God. It is a story about our rightful response to Christ -- salvation is for all who believe. God gives us a great variety of ways and opportunities to communicate his gospel to those around us. We are exhorted to pray for opportunities, and for God's grace and power to work in others' lives; to use the Bible as a part of our evangelism; to take advantage of the resources of the church in our evangelism; and to be faithful to communicate and display God's mercy to others, trusting that God will do the work.

A Blind Man

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 13:27:27 CDT

Yesupadam points out the impact that the testimony and example of one blind man had on an entire community, reminding us that God can use us and our weaknesses in similar was. Phil interviews Yesupadam on God's work in their ministries.

Making Known His Love

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 15:46:11 CDT

Scripture is full of commands to love one another; in fact, all of the law can be summed up in the word love. We are to love one another, and even to love our enemies. God intends for our love not to be merely abstract or sentimental, but real. Three of the images that God uses to describe the church capture aspects of how we are to love one another. The church is God's family, meaning that we have a unity in the gospel that overcomes all of our differences. The church is the body of Christ, meaning that we all have different functions, some of which may be more prominent than others, but all of us are needed, and we all need one another. The church is the temple of God, meaning that we exist for a far greater purpose than ourselves. We must take care of one another; this is commanded, and it provides a witness to the world, but most importantly, we do this because we love one another and we belong to one another.

Making Known His Word

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 12:33:06 CDT

One of the responsibilities God has given to his church and his people is to make known his word. In an age of extreme relativism where everyone judges truth for themselves, we must allow ourselves to be judged to be judged and evaluated by the Bible. Scripture teaches us about God, his gospel, and ourselves, and our proper response to this gospel. Our focus on his word is expressed in how much time we spend teaching it, studying it, memorizing it, discussing it. We are not only to proclaim God's word but also to treasure it, hear it, and respond to it appropriately.

Super-Abounding Grace (Romans 5:20-21)

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:53:27 CDT

God provided the law to his people. His law has many functions; first, it is a gift, to guide us in a way of living that pleases him and which is actually best for us. Second, the law shows us what sin is, exposing our sin. But more than this, our sin is provoked by the law, since we desire to do whatever is forbidden. But God did not leave us in sin; he also gave us the law to more greatly display his grace. Sin is revealed by the law, but grace is revealed even more.

Made Right With God (Romans 5:18-19)

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 09:43:37 CDT

All men are born in Adam and inherit original sin which brings enmity with God. How does one become right with God? We cannot make ourselves righteous. By faith in Christ, we are imputed the righteousness of Christ. Adam's sin was imputed to all men, those who have faith in Christ have their sin imputed to Christ and Christ's righteousness imputed to them.

The Superior Christ (Romans 5:15-17)

Sun, 08 Jun 2008 13:19:42 CDT

From Adam we have inherited sin, guilt, condemnation, and death. But in Christ and by his death we receive so much more than mere restoration of these things. We receive not only forgiveness, but justification, the very righteousness of Christ. And we receive not only life, but eternal life, victorious and reigning life.

From Adam to Christ (Romans 5:12-14)

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 11:56:41 CDT

Adam and Christ both represented groups of people. Adam represented all humanity and through him we all sinned and die. Christ represents all those who believe in Him, and through him we have obeyed and live. It may seem unfair that Adam's sin be counted as our own, but it is equally "unfair" that Christ's righteousness be counted as ours. By grace through faith in Christ, salvation is offered to all of Adam's descendants.

A Certain Salvation (Romans 5:9-11)

Sun, 25 May 2008 08:48:06 CDT

Some kinds of doubt -- self-doubt -- are healthy. But it is unhealthy for us to doubt God and his promises; we end up hedging our bets and trusting in things less secure. Not only that, but our doubting God is sin, unbelief. In this passage, Paul presents one of his strongest logical arguments for our assurance of God's saving us and keeping us. Paul anchors our assurance in the objective work of justification and reconciliation that Jesus accomplished at the cross. He has accomplished the most difficult thing in bringing us justification and reconciliation through his death. We can be confident that the one who declared "it is finished" will continue to preserve us! As a result, we rejoice, and we boast in Christ; we do this by looking backward on what he has done for us, by looking forward with confidence in his faithfulness and promises, and by living today in light of our certain hope.

The Proof of Our Hope: God's Love (Romans 5:5-8)

Sun, 18 May 2008 13:56:24 CDT

Our hope is secure as long as God loves us. God will never stop loving us; therefore we are secure in Him for eternity! Paul communicates his desire for us to experience God's love through the work, power and filling of the Holy Spirit. Paul also lays out the objective proof of God's love -- He sent his son to die on the cross, while we were weak, sinners, enemies. The outcome of this is that God will never reject us. If he loved us while we were weak, sinners, enemies, how much more will he love us now that He has clothed us with His righteousness? We need not fear that we will lose God's love for us. And we can cultivate our understanding and experience of this love as we remember and study the cross.

Keeping Perspective in Suffering (Romans 5:3-5)

Sun, 11 May 2008 14:20:29 CDT

As Christians we are to rejoice in our trials and sufferings because 1) they are part of God's agenda for us, 2) God will use them to forge a Christian hope in us, and 3) God will use them to forge a certain hope in us. Though we are tempted to disorientation and despair during times of suffering and trial, we can surely trust in God's promises and love to sustain us through trials, and even to bring a Godly rejoicing and hope in the midst of them.

Why We Rejoice (Romans 5:2)

Sun, 04 May 2008 19:26:19 CDT

Joy should characterize Christians. It should be based on something deeper than temporal circumstances; it should be based on the person and work of Jesus Christ on the cross.

The Hope of the Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:58)

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 08:29:52 CDT

Our view of Christ's work and our work should reflect 1 Corinthians 15. The emphasis is on Christ's work: 1) Christ's resurrection motivates and empowers our work; 2) Christ's resurrection secures our resurrection; and 3) Christ's resurrection fuels hope for this life. Because of Christ's work, we can be steadfast, immovable, and abounding in the work the Lord has for us.

Why the Local Church? (Ephesians 4:11-16)

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 15:29:03 CDT

In God's design, the local church is to serve as 1) a place to hear God's word preached and applied in a systematic way; 2) a place to put our commitment to God, and to one another, into practice; 3) a context for us to mature; 4) a place to discover and practice our ministry and spiritual gifts with perspective and leadership; 5) a protection from doctrinal error; 6) a place to demonstrate the gospel; and 7) a place to preserve and cultivate the fruit of the gospel.

Expansion Fund III (Philippians 4:14-20)

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 20:04:21 CDT

Phil gives an update on the expansion project at the beginning of its third and final year, setting out the opportunities that lie before us in this last year. We see that our giving serves as an encouragement to others, an investment in the future, and a sacrifice to God. In addition, we can draw encouragement from the fact that God is our loving and caring Father who will provide for all of our needs.

The Gift of Community (1 John 1:1-7)

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 08:30:41 CDT

Christian community is built around our shared experience of the gospel. Community always begins with God, and God gives us community as a means of transforming our lives more and more into the image of his son. However, community is not merely a tool for growth, but also a gift from God for our joy as well as for our good.

Masculine Spirituality (Joshua 1:8-9)

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 19:12:43 CDT

God intends for men to invest ourselves in the lives of others, working for his purposes rather than our own. We are to influence others for good, helping them to understand and pursue Christ-likeness. This begins with our families, but extends to God's church and also to the unbelievers that God has placed in our lives. Our serving others requires selfless sacrifice on our part, but God will provide us the grace and strength to be faithful to our calling as we obey.

Peace With God (Romans 5:1)

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 20:28:42 CDT

The natural man is at war with God. However, in Christ, the war is over -- we have peace with God!

The Nature of Faith (Romans 4:13-25)

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 13:41:02 CDT

Paul references the promises of God to Abraham, the ultimate fulfillment of which is the restoration of fellowship with God and the establishment of God's kingdom in the new heavens and new earth. Abraham and his descendants will be heirs of the world. Paul clearly demonstrates that it was not obedience that secured this promise to Abraham, but Abraham's faith in God and God's grace toward Abraham. Works and reward are utterly opposed to faith and promises. Just as with Abraham, we do not inherit God's promises by obedience or lineage, but we inherit God's promises by faith in God. We too will experience restoration of fellowship with God, and will participate in his eternal kingdom!

Justifying the Ungodly (Romans 4:1-12)

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 13:48:28 CDT

Paul argues and shows from scripture that we are justified only by faith in Jesus, not by anything we do. How can it be otherwise? After all, there is no boasting before God, and the only wages that our works could possibly earn for us is death. We see that Abraham was justified by faith and not by works, and furthermore that he was justified long before he was circumcised. Neither works nor rituals can save us; instead, we come to God as ungodly sinners, trusting only in him to receive justification as a free gift. Because of this, we can come to God today, now. And so the life we live is one of humility, recognizing our sin and guilt; but also grateful celebration, recognizing the magnitude of the gift God has given to us.

Faith Gives Us Eyes To See (Romans 3:27-31)

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 15:07:40 CDT

Faith changes the way we see everything. It changes the way we see ourselves -- there is no occasion for boasting in ourselves, only in our savior. It changes the way we see others -- we are no different from or better than others, only recipients of the gifts of grace and mercy, which others need just as well. And it changes the way we see God's Law -- the Law is no longer the way we earn God's favor, but it is a guide to how we can live a life pleasing to the one who has saved us.

Marriage Seminar 4

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:19:16 CDT

Fourth in a series of four teachings on marriage. This sermon does not play correctly in the Jukebox. Please click Download to listen to it.

Parenting Seminar 4

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 08:35:33 CST

Last in a series of four teachings on parenting.

The Way of Salvation: Part 3 (Romans 3:25-26)

Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:03:03 CST

Jesus is the sacrificial propitiation for our sins. Propitiation is the turning away of another's wrath. In Jesus's propitiating sacrifice, we see demonstrated our sin, God's just wrath against sin, our alienation from God, and the one perfect offering of sufficient worth to remove our guilt. Jesus demonstrates God's perfect justice in bearing the punishment for our sin, and he demonstrates God's perfect love in making a way for us to be reconciled to him in spite of our sin. How good of God!

Parenting Seminar 3

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 08:34:26 CST

Third in a series of four teachings on parenting.

Marriage Seminar 3

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 19:19:58 CDT

Third in a series of four teachings on marriage. This sermon does not play correctly in the Jukebox. Please click Download to listen to it.

The Way of Salvation: Part 2 (Romans 3:23-24)

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 12:58:55 CST

We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Our works only condemn us; instead, we are justified by God's grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.

Marriage Seminar 2

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 19:20:14 CDT

Second in a series of four teachings on marriage. This sermon does not play correctly in the Jukebox. Please click Download to listen to it.

Parenting Seminar 2

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:28:40 CST

Second in a series of four teachings on parenting.

The Way of Salvation: Part 1 (Romans 3:21-22)

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 15:08:26 CDT

This passage serves as a key turning point in Paul's letter to the Romans. Until now he has been demonstrating our sinfulness before God, the fact that we have nothing to commend ourselves to God, and that we cannot possibly do anything to earn God's favor. Now Paul shifts to show how we can receive God's favor and mercy -- through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus becomes not simply our advocate, but he becomes our substitute, taking upon himself our sins and punishment and giving us his righteousness -- a righteousness that comes only through him. The faith that receives this gift of righteousness is a faith that knows the gospel, believes the gospel, and entrusts ourselves to Christ.

Parenting Seminar 1

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 20:56:55 CST

First in a series of four teachings on parenting.

Marriage Seminar 1

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 19:20:30 CDT

First in a series of four messages on marriage. This sermon does not play correctly in the Jukebox. Please click Download to listen to it.

That Every Mouth May Be Silent (Romans 3:9-20)

Sun, 10 Feb 2008 14:25:14 CST

Paul's argument in this passage is that of a prosecutor. He demonstrates beyond any doubt that we are totally depraved, that our sin leaves us with no defense before a holy and righteous judge. By ourselves we cannot earn God's approval, and we deserve only wrath and judgment. But praise God for his provision of a Savior, Jesus Christ, who is our advocate and our righteousness. Though everyone stands guilty before God, everyone who calls on the name of Jesus will be saved, accepted by God, and adopted into God's family as his child.

A Warning Label (1 Corinthians 2:6-16)

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 14:20:00 CST

Paul contrasts divine wisdom with human wisdom. Divine wisdom is distinct from, cannot be reconciled with, and is ultimately opposed to human wisdom. Divine wisdom has a divine origin rather than a human origin: it is revealed by the Holy Spirit and not discerned by man's efforts. Divine wisdom is rooted in and revealed in the gospel and the cross. The cross provokes us to humility and gratitude.

Let God Be True (Romans 3:1-8)

Sun, 27 Jan 2008 15:09:09 CDT

Analyzing Authenticity (Romans 2:17-29)

Sun, 20 Jan 2008 20:47:55 CST

Paul challenges his readers not to base our confidence before God in our religious pedigree, family history, bible knowledge, Christian education, or any other experience or practice. There are many good things we ought to pursue, but there is a danger in craving man's approval rather than God's, and none of these things will secure our standing before God. Our only hope is the gospel, pleading for mercy rather than justice, and trusting in Christ's dying for sinners. Once we have trusted, we are freed to do good works rightly -- not so that we can be saved, but out of love and gratitude, as an overflow of our changed hearts. The essence of a true Christian is a changed heart.

The Coming Day of Wrath (Romans 2:1-16)

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 06:53:13 CST

We live in light of the coming day of wrath, first, by thinking rightly of the sin of others; we are no better than others and must not presume on God's grace. Second, by giving ourselves to good works, not as an attempt to save ourselves, but in faithfulness, gratitude and love. Third, by thinking rightly of those who have never heard the gospel; their problem is not that they have not heard, but that they have seen God and rejected him. The only way that we will escape the judgment of God is through Jesus's death, sacrifice, and washing our sins away.

God's Judgment on Idolatry (Romans 1:24-32)

Sun, 06 Jan 2008 11:55:45 CST

Paul points out that idolatry, rejection of God's goodness and authority, is at the root of all sin. Idolatry begets the sins that are listed in this passage; God gives up idolaters to impurity, dishonorable passions, and debased minds. But Paul also spells out the hope for sinful idolaters -- the One who was himself given up for our sake.

Making Known His Worth (1 Peter 2:9-10)

Sun, 30 Dec 2007 13:09:52 CST

Worship is the central and eternal purpose of the church of Jesus Christ. We are seeking to practice worship that is biblical, gospel-centered, charismatic, and contemporary but historically informed.

Mankind: Without Excuse (Romans 1:18-23)

Sun, 23 Dec 2007 13:36:11 CST

In this section of Romans, Paul begins to demonstrate our need for the gospel. He points to God's wrath, which is God's righteous antagonism to that which is unholy and unrighteous. He proves our own unrighteousness, showing that we are many times over without excuse before God. Paul shows that our sin is a form of idolatry, giving to something else the worship and service and love that God deserves. In light of this proof of our sin, the provision of Christ as our Savior shines as a glorious and welcome hope. He came to redeem us from sin, to give us his righteousness in place of our sin and guilt. What a glorious gift this is!

The Gospel: God's Power for Salvation (Romans 1:16-17)

Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:31:15 CST

We should not feel ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God for salvation; because it is for everyone; and because it reveals and provides the righteousness of and from God that is necessary for us to be accepted by God. Apart from the gospel we have no hope, but for everyone who believes, the gospel is a sure and certain and powerful hope, providing for our greatest need.

The Romans: A Work of God (Romans 1:7-15)

Sun, 09 Dec 2007 18:39:40 CST

Paul concludes his introduction to Romans with a more personal note. He reminds the Romans that they are loved by God and called by God -- that God's claim on their lives and His grace to them is their fundamental reality. Paul gives thanks to God for the Romans and their faith, reminding them that all they have is from God. Lastly, Paul communicates his longing to see the Romans and share in God's work among them. Paul is aware that God's claim on his life gives him the privilege and responsibility of preaching that gospel to the lost.

The Bread of Life (John 6:22-71)

Sun, 02 Dec 2007 21:19:50 CST

Jesus says he can provide a bread that will sustain us, giving life to the world and giving us eternal life. But he draws a strong reaction from the crowd when he explains that it is his own body that is this bread. We see that Jesus is speaking of believing in him; to believe in Jesus is to eat this bread. But we see as well that eternal life comes at the cost of our own desires; we must give ourselves to Jesus.

Set Apart for the Gospel (Romans 1:1-7)

Sun, 25 Nov 2007 15:59:30 CST

In his introduction to Romans, Paul is already laying out how the gospel affects our lives. We see that the gospel determines our calling, our Lord, and our mission.

Servanthood

Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:02:59 CST

We are called to follow in the example of Christ and live as humble servants in our actions, but even more fundamentally in our attitude and nature. Scripture reveals several essential qualities to a true servant; the servant 1) serves as unto the Lord; 2) serves sacrificially; 3) walks in humility; 4) serves diligently, working hard; and 5) serves faithfully.

Introduction to Romans

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 17:19:26 CST

Paul introduces himself to the Roman church and helps to address some Jew and Gentile issues. But the primary theme of Romans is the gospel, which Paul lays out clearly and forcefully, explaining how it is that all of us as sinners deserving of God's wrath can instead experience forgiveness, justification, peace with God, life, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Water Baptism

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 14:50:40 CST

Baptism by immersion in water is an important doctrine and practice for God's church. Water baptism is significant because it is a commandment of Jesus; it serves as a picture of our salvation; and because it is a sign of the new covenant that God established through Jesus. Baptism is appropriate for all who have come to faith in Christ and are able to confess that faith, whether they are converted adults or children who have conscious faith in Christ. Baptism is a sign of new birth and not of maturity, so it is right for new believers to seek baptism promptly. The timing of baptism will naturally be uncertain for children, but parents are encouraged to faithfully work to ensure their children understand the gospel. Baptism is appropriate as soon as children are able to articulate the gospel and their personal faith in Jesus.

Last Words (Mark 16:9-20)

Sun, 21 Oct 2007 17:01:15 CDT

Jesus commands his disciples, and by extension his church, to preach the gospel to all nations, making and baptizing disciples. We preach the gospel, not to be intolerant or disrespectful, but out of love for others and because our Lord and Savior has commanded us to do so. He promises to pour out his Holy Spirit on us to empower us to preach the gospel and to care for one another. And in his ascension, he proves that he has completed everything necessary to satisfy God's justice, secure our acceptance before God, and provide for our every need. We belong to him!

He Is Risen (Mark 15:42 - 16:8)

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 04:41:12 CDT

Jesus died an authentic death, and was raised in an authentic resurrection. His resurrection is proof of the satisfaction of his sacrifice, and of the defeat of death. His resurrection means that he has secured the life and resurrection of his people.

The Death of Jesus, Part 2 (Mark 15:33-41)

Sun, 07 Oct 2007 04:42:26 CDT

The atonement made by Jesus in his death has innumerable facets. Considering four of these facets in particular, we see Jesus as the triumphant king (Christus victor); the mediator who bridges the gap of sin that separates us from God; the ultimate moral example for us; and chief of all, our own sacrifice and substitute suffering under and completely satisfying the wrath of God in our place and whose righteousness now clothes us.

The Death of Jesus, Part 1 (Mark 15:16-39)

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 21:13:11 CDT

The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark highlights the irony that Jesus is mocked as king, but he is in fact king of all. Jesus suffers not only physical pain, but also the very wrath of God, in fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and types, and to secure our salvation and life by suffering in our place. We are no longer separated from the presence of and fellowship with God, and in fact the crucifixion reveals clearly God's love for us. The only proper response is for us to worship in awe and gratitude.

The Betrayal of Jesus (Mark 14:43 - 15:15)

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 18:53:07 CDT

We see in this passage a sharp contrast between Jesus and everyone else -- Judas, the disciples, the Sanhedrin, and Pilate. The fear and sin of others are on full display, but Jesus's glory and his confident trust in his Father are also clear. Jesus's suffering is the answer for the disciples' sin, and our own.

Different By Design

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 09:43:14 CDT

Men and women, created in the image of God, are equal in value, importance, significance and dignity. But in a reflection of the glorious unity and diversity of the Trinity, men and women are also created and called by God to serve in different but complementary roles. In the context of the church and family, men are called by God to lead and provide, and women are called by God to help. This calling predates mankind's fall into sin.

To say all this is barely to scratch the surface; applying this requires careful attention to God's commands and a watchfulness that we do not fall into the various temptations that beset us as men and women. But there is great joy to be found in walking out God's calling for us.

Scriptures referenced include Genesis 1-3; 1 Corinthians 11:3,7-11; 1 Corinthians 15:22,28; Romans 5:15; 1 Timothy 2:13,15; Colossians 3:18; Titus 2:4-5; Ephesians 5:22-25; 1 Peter 3:1-6; 1 Timothy 5:9,14; Proverbs 31:28.

See also the link to this sermon's notes.

A Place Called Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-42)

Sun, 09 Sep 2007 06:35:45 CDT

In the garden we see two provisions God has made for our sin. First, we see our suffering Savior, who suffered and died in our place to bear our sin and guilt -- this is our justification. Second, we see the provision that God has made through prayer to help us resist temptation and sin day to day -- this is our sanctification.

The Covenant Meal Inaugurated (Mark 14:1-31)

Sun, 02 Sep 2007 13:23:18 CDT

The nation of Israel failed to see that the greatest problem they had was not external, such as Rome, but was internal -- their own sin. As a result, they failed to see what sort of a Savior and Messiah they needed. In this passage, we see a sharp contrast between Mary's loving and worshipful anointing of Jesus against the hatred and betrayal of Jesus's many enemies. But at the same time, we are reminded that all -- both true and false disciples -- have need of a savior. We see God's provision for us in Jesus's death, and are regularly reminded of it in our celebration of the Lord's supper.

The Olivet Discourse, Part 2 (Mark 13:24-27)

Sun, 26 Aug 2007 14:53:52 CDT

Jesus foretells the destruction of Jerusalem but also looks ahead to his second coming. Much scriptural prophecy about the coming of God's kingdom has this already-but-not-yet flavor. While we cannot know when he will return, nor what the exact circumstances surrounding his return will be, but we can be sure he will return. Knowing this should cause us to be looking for his return with eager anticipation, comforted with the knowledge that he is coming, and seeking to walk in faithful obedience to our Lord.

The Olivet Discourse, Part 1 (Mark 13:1-23)

Sun, 19 Aug 2007 13:12:03 CDT

In this portion of the discourse on the Mount of Olives, Jesus prophetically describes to his disciples the destruction of the temple, and the events that will precede it. While these events are long past, there is clear application for us today. We must be on guard, not to be led astray by false teaching and not to fear persecution or the happenings in the world around us. Instead, we are to trust in God's sovereignty and grace, and live our lives by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Religion That Pleases God (Mark 11:27 - 12:44)

Sun, 12 Aug 2007 14:10:42 CDT

Religion that pleases God is 1) rooted in the teaching of scripture, 2) rooted in Jesus himself, 3) impacts all of our earthly allegiances, 4) knows the God of the scriptures, 5) is the overflow of a love for God and our neighbor, and 6) results in real sacrifice.

The Triumphal Entry of the King (Mark 11:1-26)

Sun, 05 Aug 2007 14:16:17 CDT

Jesus is king. He is not like us, and doesn't come as we expect. He is greater than we expect -- Lord over all. The only sane response is to approach him in faith and worship.

On Entering the Kingdom of God (Mark 10:13-52)

Sun, 29 Jul 2007 14:34:13 CDT

Continuing our series in Mark, we see where we stand relative to the overall flow of the book. In this passage from Mark 10, we see stated and demonstrated four things that are required of us as Christians: the humility of a child; a practice of discipleship that is willing to relinquish our own rights and possessions for God's sake; a cherishing of service toward others that is willing to endure suffering and sacrifice; and a faith that approaches Christ in complete dependence and trust in him.

Jesus Speaks on Marriage (Mark 10:1-12)

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 04:50:47 CDT

Jesus is Lord over marriage; he established marriage, and intends that marriage should last as long as husband and wife are both alive. Jesus confronts the Pharisees for starting with the question of divorce. In order to determine God's perspective on divorce and remarriage, we need to begin with God's perspective on marriage itself.

The Greatest of All (Mark 9:33-50)

Sun, 15 Jul 2007 15:20:08 CDT

Because Christ is lord over all things, following Christ requires change in every area of our lives. In particular, we see in this passage that Christ's lordship changes how we think of ourselves, how we think of and serve one another, and how we battle sin. And because of his sacrifice and the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to grow in living out these changed lives.

Help My Unbelief (Mark 9:14-32)

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 08:44:41 CDT

Trouble will come to the Christian. God's provision of grace and power requires that we respond in faith, trusting in Him rather than anything else. Our greatest need is for faith; our greatest enemy is unbelief. But God helps us in this, too!

The Mount of Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-13)

Sun, 01 Jul 2007 05:45:08 CDT

In the transfiguration we see a momentary glimpse of Jesus's divinity and true greatness. This vision strengthened the disciples -- and strengthens us -- for a lifetime of whatever hardship lies ahead of us. Jesus is our example in facing hardship, but more importantly the fact that he faced it for us gives us enduring hope and power.

Who Do You Say I Am? (Mark 8:27 - 9:1)

Sun, 24 Jun 2007 13:36:02 CDT

Peter's confession that Jesus is the Christ -- and Jesus's response -- tell us so much about Jesus and his role. We see that He is the Son of Man and the Lord of all, but also the suffering servant. We see the miracle of the incarnation -- God become flesh. We see his work as our redeemer, humbling himself in suffering, sacrifice and death so that he might bring about our life and glorification. The only appropriate response, then, is for us to worship and obey him -- not so that we might earn his favor, for he has done perfectly for us what we could never accomplish. Rather, we submit ourselves to him in faith, joy and gratitude for who he is and what he has done for us. We are thus called to follow him by denying ourselves and dying to sin.

Fruitful Living in the Kingdom of God (Mark 7:1 - 8:26)

Sun, 17 Jun 2007 14:44:45 CDT

In order to live fruitful, joyful and obedient lives as God's children, we must understand our Savior -- he comes to us without the trappings of man's traditions, and with the power to truly save and to truly preserve us.

The Demands of Discipleship (Mark 6:7-56)

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 20:24:11 CDT

Grasping the majesty of Jesus Christ creates faith that springs into action: our seeing Christ produces faith in Christ, which produces obedience to Christ. We see the calling and service that we are summoned to as disciples; we see the great personal cost that discipleship requires -- laying down our lives -- and we are provoked to discipleship and service by compassion and gratitude rooted in the cross.

Who Is This Man? (Mark 4:26 - 6:6)

Sun, 03 Jun 2007 15:31:05 CDT

Jesus demonstrates that he has power over creation, over demons, and over life and death itself. He proves that he is king and lord over all. In Mark, we see examples of two responses to Jesus -- the response of unbelief, and the response of faith. We are to walk in faith and trust in Jesus.

Ears to Hear (Mark 4:1-25)

Sun, 27 May 2007 12:55:45 CDT

Jesus appeals to us, not simply to hear his word, but to listen, to heed his word. We must allow his word to speak to us and to change us, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Believers are commanded to hear the word that we may grow as a result.

Dawn of a New Day (Mark 2:18 - 3:35)

Sun, 20 May 2007 12:53:13 CDT

Jesus has come as King and Savior to bring forgiveness and life and joy and freedom. Few people recognized his coming as the appearance of the Christ. We are to see Jesus as our life and our hope and our freedom.

The Authority of the Son (Mark 1:16 - 2:17)

Sun, 13 May 2007 13:48:40 CDT

Jesus Christ is not only the Son of God, nor is he merely a man; he is God. Early on in the book of Mark, Mark establishes this by showing Jesus's authority to call disciples, to preach and teach from Scripture, to cast out demons, to heal people, and to forgive sins. Only God can do this!

The Beginning of the Gospel (Mark 1:1-15)

Sun, 06 May 2007 18:51:47 CDT

We are introduced to the gospel of Mark. Mark writes to prove the deity of Christ and to declare the gospel message. In the opening passage we see John prophetically preparing the people for Christ, and we see the declaration of Jesus's deity, and the beginning of the gospel message -- repent and believe!

Keeping it Charismatic

Sun, 29 Apr 2007 07:30:52 CDT

We are in constant need of the Holy Spirit's sustaining, sanctifying, empowering work in our lives.

Walking Worthy . . . For Others (Ephesians 4:1 - 5:2)

Sun, 22 Apr 2007 20:43:29 CDT

We are to walk worthy of the calling that brought us from death and wrath to being a forgiven child of God. Overwhelmingly, Paul describes this manner of walking in terms of our relationships: we are to walk in unity, play our part in the body of Christ, and put on the new man -- which is itself described in terms of bringing grace and encouragement and grace to one another.

Expansion Project

Sun, 15 Apr 2007 14:14:45 CDT

God is glorified when we are obedient to his commands, including his command to give, and especially when we give sacrificially. Giving is a work of grace that we are to pursue. The grace of giving benefits us by laying up treasure in heaven, helping us to mortify materialism and covetousness, and by allowing us to partner in the gospel.

Destroy This Temple! (John 2:13-25)

Sun, 08 Apr 2007 13:40:06 CDT

Our sin cannot be fixed by something as simple as an outpatient surgery. It required the actual death of the very son of God. John describes to us that Jesus is the true temple of God, through which the true high priest ministers the true sacrifice that will deal with our sins once and for all. Our forgiveness, death to sin, and life are all bound up in his death and resurrection, and in our believing in him.

God's Abiding Presence (Exodus 40:34-38)

Sun, 01 Apr 2007 20:59:27 CDT

This passage is the pinnacle of the book of Exodus -- the holy LORD of all creation comes to dwell with his people. God's presence demonstrated his power, guided Israel, and extended mercy. This is true for us today, as well; through the Holy Spirit and by the cross, God's presence empowers us, guides us, and extends daily mercy.

Under Construction (Exodus 35 - 40:33)

Sun, 25 Mar 2007 15:50:22 CDT

The detail and care with which God laid out plans for the tabernacle -- and with which Moses meticulously obeyed -- is a reminder to us of the care that we need to take in obeying God's word in our own lives. God alone determines how he is to be approached in service and worship.

Our Golden Calves (Exodus 32-34)

Sun, 18 Mar 2007 07:36:45 CDT

We see in Israel's worshiping the golden calf a picture of all idolatry. Idolatry establishes a counterfeit god, religion, and salvation. God jealously protects our love for him and forcefully opposes our idolatry. The way out of idolatry is repentance, grounded in our sure hope that God will show us mercy through Jesus our Savior. Idols only bring us weariness and unending demands; only Jesus can give us life, rest, and joy.

The Tabernacle (Exodus 25-31)

Sun, 11 Mar 2007 21:48:40 CDT

The Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:18 - 23:33)

Sun, 04 Mar 2007 22:02:38 CST

The law that God gave to Israel, and the way that Moses, the Levites, and the angel of the Lord served as mediator between Israel and God, all point to Jesus and his perfect sacrifice and mediation between us and God.

Truth, Lies and Love for Neighbors (Exodus 20:16)

Sun, 18 Feb 2007 22:11:54 CST

The ninth commandment forbids perjury in a courtroom context, but its implications cover our speech in general, and especially our speaking of others. God wants a people who treasure truth, and who also treasure and guard the unity of his church.

The Eighth Commandment (Exodus 20:15)

Sun, 11 Feb 2007 17:19:06 CST

God's prohibition of stealing covers a great variety of sins, from robbery and burglary to embezzlement (including how we spend our time at work), fraud, enslavement, and robbing God. There is stealing in each of our hearts, and the root of it is our failure to trust in God's provision, and in our covetousness. In Christ, who died between two thieves, we find provision for forgiveness, and power to work faithfully for our provision and so that we may give to others.

You Shall Not Commit Adultery (Exodus 20:14)

Sun, 04 Feb 2007 14:52:29 CST

God's command not to commit adultery relates directly to his exhortation in Hebrews 13:4 to "let marriage be held in honor among all." We are to esteem, honor, and cultivate our marriages greatly, and to flee and fight the sins of adultery and sexual immorality. Our fighting these sins requires a practical plan of attack, but it also requires an understanding of the forgiveness and power we receive in the gospel.

The Fourth Commandment (Exodus 20:8-11)

Sun, 28 Jan 2007 20:52:04 CST

God gives us one day of rest each week as a gift, as an occasion to remember his goodness in saving us and anticipate heaven, and as an opportunity to worship him and fellowship with his people.

You Shall Not Murder (Exodus 20:13)

Sun, 21 Jan 2007 07:32:37 CST

In the sixth commandment, God forbids murder. This determines our response to the tragedy of abortion. But this also reminds us that anger and hatred toward one another are serious sins in God's sight. Forgiveness and life are only to be found in the one perfect one who was murdered for our sake, Jesus Christ.

He Appeared to Take Away Sins (1 John 3:5)

Sun, 14 Jan 2007 11:54:58 CST

Jesus appeared to take away sins. This brings us great hope not only in justification -- our being made right with God -- but also in sanctification, as he empowers us in the battle against indwelling sin.

The Fifth Commandment (Exodus 20:12)

Sun, 07 Jan 2007 14:35:42 CST

God's command to honor our parents is a responsibility we carry not just as children, but for our whole life.

Respect God's Holy Name (Exodus 20:7)

Sun, 31 Dec 2006 10:00:54 CST

As our creator and Lord, God's name is to be honored and respected. This does not merely mean that we do not misuse his name; rather, we must also praise and honor his name. For additional reading, please see http://www.bpc.org/resources/watson/wsc_wa_053-056.html

His Name Shall Be Called Jesus (Luke 1:26-38)

Sun, 24 Dec 2006 10:01:13 CST

We consider the miracle and mystery of God become flesh, the birth of the very Son of God in an insignificant town through a series of amazing miracles. Jesus is the son of David whose rule will be forever. All things are under his rule and authority -- we must live under his rule and authority here and now.

The Second Commandment: Worshipping a Jealous God (Exodus 20:4-6)

Sun, 17 Dec 2006 16:10:00 CST

God commands us to worship him rightly, not sacrificing his actual presence for mere material things and comfortable forms, and not treasuring images and forms above his word.

The First Commandment (Exodus 20:1-3)

Sun, 10 Dec 2006 22:46:13 CST

The God who loves us and saved us requires that our full allegiance and devotion be directed to him and no other god or idol.

The Mosaic Covenant (Exodus 19 - 24)

Sun, 03 Dec 2006 11:33:17 CST

God's covenants are progressive revelations of himself and progressive provisions for his people. In each of his covenants, God changes his relationship to his people forever. We see in the giving of the Mosaic covenant that God comes to dwell among his people, which is a foretaste of the nearness to God that we experience in fellowship with Jesus. We also see that God gives law in each of his covenants as a good gift to his people, to govern their lives and to teach his will.

The Christian and the Law (Exodus 24)

Sun, 26 Nov 2006 13:49:53 CST

The Old Testament Law is relevant to us today. Broadly, as a whole it gives us an appreciation for God's history of redemption, and specifically, the moral law applies to us today as Christians. Most importantly, we are to understand the Old Testament Law in a framework of grace. God first loved and saved Israel, and then through the law taught them to live holy lives for his glory. Obedience of the law cannot earn God's favor; it must be motivated by love for God and gratitude for our finished salvation.

Faith in the Wilderness (Exodus 15:22 - 18:27)

Sun, 19 Nov 2006 13:50:08 CST

After seeing God's great power and glory, Israel falls into escalating grumbling as God brings them through the wilderness. Moses, however, retains his faith in "the LORD my banner". Without denying the very real and agonizing hardships we experience in life, we must resist the temptation to unbelief and grumbling and must remind ourselves of God's goodness and faithfulness. He will surely continue to sustain us through trials.

Philemon

Sun, 12 Nov 2006 18:56:10 CST

In the book of Philemon we see a postcard snapshot of some of the ways that the cross changes us, and especially how the cross changes our relationships with one another. The cross brings us from estrangement to fellowship and forgiveness.

With a Mighty Hand and Outstretched Arm (Exodus 13:17 - 15:21)

Sun, 05 Nov 2006 13:51:00 CST

God set his love on an undeserving people and delivered them out of slavery by his mighty power, for his glory, and for their good. This points ahead to our own experience of salvation in Jesus. We ought to consider our own deliverance out of sin with great gratitude and rejoicing.

Christ the Passover (Exodus 11 - 13:16)

Sun, 22 Oct 2006 13:51:38 CST

God delivered Israel out of Egypt by killing the Egyptians' firstborn but passing over Israel because of their making the passover sacrifice in faith. God charged Israel to remember their redemption to all generations; to forget God's redemption and deliverance was a matter of life and death. Likewise for us today, we are charged to remember our deliverance and redemption from sin in Jesus as a matter of life and death.