Edgerton First Reformed: An Evangelical Presbyterian Church

Explore the often-overlooked doctrine of the Ascension in our latest sermon, 'Receive Your King.' Discover why Jesus's ascension into heaven is central to our faith, how it affects our daily lives, and what it means for His reign as our King and intercessor. Learn how Psalm 24 reveals the majesty of Christ's authority and our call to holiness. 

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Psalm 24:

1. How does the Ascension of Jesus Christ enhance our understanding of His current reign as King and His ongoing work on behalf of His people?

2. In what ways can recognizing Jesus as our intercessor impact our approach to prayer and our daily challenges?

3. Reflecting on Psalm 24, how do we reconcile our imperfections with the call to have clean hands and pure hearts in order to stand in God's holy place?

This week, we look at Revelation 3:14-22. Discover the stark differences between being spiritually lukewarm and actively setting a faithful temperature in your walk with Christ. Are you a thermometer or a thermostat in your faith? Join us as we delve into this vital question for every believer.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 3:14-22:

1. In what ways can a believer act more like a thermostat, actively influencing their environment rather than merely reflecting it like a thermometer?

2. How does the concept of being 'rich in Christ' challenge the modern Christian's understanding of true wealth and prosperity?

3. What practical steps can Christians take to avoid becoming spiritually lukewarm, especially in comfortable or affluent circumstances?

This week, we explore Revelation 3:7-13 and delve into the story of the Philadelphia church—a community with little power but immense faithfulness. Discover how Jesus’ sovereign authority, the church’s steadfast spirit, and the promise of an eternal reward inspire us to persevere through trials with the assurance that God’s promises stand firm, even in the most challenging times. Join us to learn how to endure with hope and conviction.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 3:7-13:

1. How does recognizing Jesus as the holder of the "key of David" affect our understanding of his sovereignty in our daily struggles and spiritual battles?

2. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faithfulness to God’s word in times when we feel weak or overwhelmed by life’s circumstances?

3. How does the promise of being made "a pillar in the temple of God" influence our perspective on earthly challenges and spiritual endurance?

This week, we look into the message to Thyatira in Revelation 2:18-29. Delve into themes of holiness, the dangers of compromising faith, and the rewards of faithful endurance. Understand the call of Jesus against false teachings and the profound importance of remaining steadfast in our spiritual commitments. Tune in as we contemplate how these ancient lessons apply to our modern faith journeys.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 2:18-29: 1. How does the image of Jesus with eyes like flames of fire and feet like burnished bronze enhance our understanding of His role as judge?2. In what ways does the figure of "Jezebel" in Thyatira challenge us to examine contemporary issues within the church today?3. What are the implications of Jesus's promise to the faithful in Thyatira regarding authority over nations and receiving the morning star? How can these promises motivate us in our current spiritual practices?

This week, we delve into Revelation 2:12-17, focusing on the church in Pergamum's call to maintain a faithful witness amidst persecution. We explore the dangers of tolerating false teachings and the consequences of failing to stand firm in faith. Finally, we are reassured of God's divine protection and the eternal rewards for those who overcome, highlighting the importance of repentance and steadfastness in our spiritual journey. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 2:12-17:

1. How does the example of Antipas's martyrdom challenge and inspire us to stand firm in our faith today, even in the face of societal pressures or persecution?

2. How can the church today guard against the subtle influences of false teachings, comparable to the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans, that might lead to compromise or sin?

3. Reflecting on the promise of hidden manna and a white stone with a new name, what does this imagery tell us about God's rewards for those who overcome and remain faithful to Him?

Join us as we examine John’s account of the resurrection and consider the significance of the empty tomb and the pivotal change it brings for the people of God.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from John 20:1-18:

1. How do the emotions and actions of Mary Magdalene and the disciples before recognizing Jesus’ resurrection illustrate the depth of transformation experienced upon realizing the truth of the resurrection?

2. Considering John’s belief but lack of understanding upon seeing the empty tomb, how does this reflect the journey of faith and understanding in the Christian life?

3. What significance does Jesus' command to Mary Magdalene not to cling to Him but to go and share the news of His resurrection hold for the mission and witness of believers today?

This Maundy Thursday, we look at the institution of the Lord’s Supper from the Gospel of Mark. This passage shows Jesus' sovereignty, our need for forgiveness, and the covenant that Jesus established with his people.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Mark 14:12-26:

1. How does Jesus' prediction of His betrayal during the Passover meal contrast with traditional Passover celebrations, and what does this reveal about the new covenant He was instituting?

2. In what ways does the preparation and observance of the Passover by Jesus and His disciples, as described in Mark 14:12-16, illustrate Jesus' sovereignty and foreknowledge of events, including His betrayal and crucifixion?

3. Reflecting on the significance of Jesus' words "This is my body" and "This is my blood of the covenant" during the Last Supper, how does this moment redefine the disciples' understanding of sacrifice and covenant in their Jewish faith?

This week, we reflect on Palm Sunday, emphasizing Jesus' triumphal entry as a fulfillment of prophecy, the crowd's response, and Jesus' path to the cross, highlighting the contrast between earthly expectations and His true mission of salvation.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from John 12:12-19:

1. How does the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in Jesus' triumphal entry deepen our understanding of His messianic mission?

2. In what ways did the crowd's expectations of Jesus as a political Messiah differ from His actual purpose of bringing spiritual salvation?

3. How does the story of Lazarus' resurrection influence the crowd's perception of Jesus and contribute to the events of Palm Sunday?

This week, we look at Revelation 2:8-11 and explore the resilience of early Christians who embraced persecution, drawing strength from their faith and the promise of eternal life, as exemplified by martyrs like Stephen and Polycarp. Join us as we delve into the spiritual riches and the eternal crown that await those united to Christ.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 2:8-11:

1. How do the church's story in Smyrna and figures like Polycarp exemplify the triumph of faith over worldly suffering?

2. What is the role of daily preparation in a Christian's life to face spiritual challenges and potential persecution?

3. How does the concept of an "eternal crown" in Christ contrast with the fleeting crowns of the world? 

This week, we look at Revelation 2:1-7 and reflect on the Ephesian church's commendation for diligence and truthfulness, its critique for abandoning their first love, and the call to repentance. In this passage, we see the importance of maintaining a genuine love for Christ and the continuous need for repentance in our faith journey.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:9-20: 1. How can "chronological snobbery" impact our understanding and appreciation of Scripture and the church's teachings? Reflect on a time when you may have dismissed a biblical or theological idea simply because it was old, and consider how revisiting it with an open heart might change your perspective.

2. In light of the critique of the Ephesian church for abandoning their first love, what practical steps can individuals and the church take to rediscover and rekindle their passion for Christ? Discuss the importance of the emotional aspect of our relationship with God and the active, deliberate choices we make to stay close to Him.

3. Considering the sermon's emphasis on repentance and the call to return to our first love, how does repentance play a role in our daily walk with Christ? Share a personal experience where repentance led to a deeper, more meaningful connection with God, and discuss how we can foster a culture of repentance within the church community.

As we finish Revelation chapter one, we focus on the vision of Jesus as the Son of Man, a sight so glorious and powerful that words can barely do it justice. Join us as we unpack how these descriptions provide comfort and assurance to believers facing tribulations, reminding us that the sovereignty and majesty of Christ are a source of unwavering confidence.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:9-20: 1. How do the divine encounters, as depicted in the Book of Revelation, provide comfort and assurance to believers?

2. Revelation tells us the keys to death and Hades are held by Jesus. How does this imagery impact your understanding of Christ's victory over evil?

3. Why is a written Word from God important? How does the authority and sufficiency Scripture provide comfort for Christians facing trials and tribulations?

Join us as we explore the awe-inspiring supremacy of Jesus in the book of Revelation, where His authority and sovereignty offer unparalleled comfort to believers, particularly in the face of persecution. If you feel daunted by the complexities of Revelation, join us as we unwrap its message of hope and divine justice.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:4-8:

1. How does the message address the theme of divine justice and its implications for believers facing persecution?

2. In what ways do Jesus' titles, such as "faithful witness" and "firstborn from the dead," help us understand His eternal kingship and victory over death?

3. What insights does the sermon offer regarding the role of believers as priests and servants in God's kingdom, particularly in the context of the Book of Revelation's promises?

The message for this week explores the Book of Revelation's unveiling of Jesus Christ, emphasizing its divine purpose and origin. Amidst potential confusion, the focus is on Christ's victory, a call to faithful witness, and an urgent proclamation that the time is near.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:1-3:

1. The central theme of victory in the Book of Revelation comes from the focus on Jesus. What implications are there for those facing challenges and persecution?

2. What specific challenges and misconceptions about the Book of Revelation are addressed in the sermon? How does Pastor Mark encourage a Christ-centered interpretation while dispelling potential obstacles?

3. Regarding the urgency emphasized in Revelation, particularly the statement that "the time is near," how does the message reconcile the immediacy of certain events in the original context with the broader theological perspective of the already and not yet aspect of prophecy?

In this week’s message, we see the imperative of being prepared for Jesus's return. The parable Jesus tells teaches vigilance and the wise use of spiritual gifts. We also see the contrast of faithfulness with unfaithfulness and the need to consider the eternal consequences of our actions. Believers are called to serve God's kingdom diligently as good stewards of what God has blessed us with.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Luke 12:35-48: 1. How do the parables of watchful servants and faithful stewards, as described, illustrate the concept of preparedness for Jesus' return?

2. What contrasts between faithfulness and unfaithfulness are highlighted, and what are the consequences of each in the context of Christian belief?

3. How can believers use their spiritual gifts for the kingdom of God, and what is the significance of doing so, according to Jesus' teachings?

In our anxiety-filled world, Jesus urges us to trust in God's provision, prioritize His kingdom, and invest in eternal treasures, reminding us that anxiety adds nothing to our lives. Seek the kingdom, and God will provide. Treasure the eternal, for where your heart is, there your treasure will be.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Luke 12:22-34: 1. How has the prevalence of technology and constant connectivity contributed to the rise of anxiety in our society, as mentioned in the passage?

2. What does the passage suggest about the relationship between anxiety and one's focus on worldly concerns versus seeking the kingdom of God?

3. In what ways can individuals practically embrace God's provision, prioritize the kingdom of God, and invest in the eternal, as advised in the passage, to alleviate their anxiety and find peace?

This week’s message discusses the folly of pursuing material wealth and the importance of being 'rich toward God.' The parable of the rich man from Luke 12:13-21 underscores the transient nature of worldly possessions and the necessity of focusing on eternal values. Jesus calls us to forsake covetousness and seek to be rich towards God.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. What key lesson does Jesus teach about wealth and possessions in the parable found in Luke 12?

2. How does the text interpret the saying "you can't take it with you" in the context of pursuing material wealth versus spiritual richness?

3. In the discussion of Luke 12, how is the concept of God's sovereignty over life and death used to illustrate the foolishness of prioritizing material possessions over spiritual values?

In this week’s message we see the importance of acknowledging Jesus, facing persecution with the Holy Spirit's strength, and Jesus' advocacy before God, urging believers to boldly live out their faith.

1. The passage emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Jesus before men and the promise that if we do so, Jesus will acknowledge us before the angels of God. How does this message impact your understanding of professing and living out your faith in your daily life?

2. The concept of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is discussed in the passage. What does it mean to blaspheme against the Holy Spirit, and why is it described as an unforgivable sin? How can believers ensure they do not commit this sin?

3. The passage suggests that the disciples and believers will face persecution and challenges in acknowledging Jesus before authorities and rulers. How can Christians today prepare themselves to stand firm in their faith and witness to Jesus in the face of adversity or opposition?

As the new year beckons, it's time to look inward and consider the words of Jesus in Luke 12:1-7 Do we fear God or do we seek the approval of man? With living to the glory of God in 2024 in view we consider the significance of seeking God’s approval over the fleeting validation of the world around us. 

Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Luke 12:1-7:

1. How does Pastor Mark use the concept of "fear not" in the context of discussing the popularity of Jesus and the challenges faced by his disciples?

2. How do you interpret the idea of "fearing God" in contrast to fearing men? What significance does this have in the Christian life?

3. How does the concept of God's knowledge and care for individuals, even down to the number of hairs on their heads, relate to the idea of fearing God and finding comfort in His love?

This week, we explore three key themes: Disclosure (Jesus revealing God's story), Depth (the universal reach of the gospel), and Doxology (praising God for His saving work). We see how Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding and living in accordance with God's message.

As the winter's chill sets in, it can often bring feelings of despair and darkness. Yet, the beacon of the divine light of Christ dispels our gloom. In our evening Candlelight Service meditation, we see this move from darkness to divine light and consider how the light of Christmas calls us to action

Consider these questions as you listen to this meditation:

1. How does the imagery of darkness and light in this passage from Isaiah resonate with our human experiences of darkness, both in the physical world and in our spiritual lives? How does the coming of Jesus as the "light of the world" bring hope and comfort to those living in spiritual darkness?

2. The passage mentions the idea of passing on the light of Christ, symbolized by the candlelight service. How can believers effectively share the light of Christ with others in a world that often feels overwhelmed by darkness and despair? What practical steps can be taken to spread the message of hope found in Jesus?

3. The text highlights the promise of the Messiah as a source of great joy and hope. How does the celebration of Christmas serve as a reminder of this promise and the fulfillment of God's plan to bring light into the world? In what ways can the joy of the Christmas season be shared with others to point them toward the true source of joy, Jesus Christ?

As we look at the Apostle Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, we see the emphasis on living a holy life while awaiting the return of Jesus. Paul encourages rejoicing, prayer, and thanksgiving in all circumstances. He also stresses the Holy Spirit's role in sanctifying believers, leading them to live blameless lives. Paul's assurance of God's faithfulness in completing his good work in believers provides comfort and hope.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. How can we overcome the tension between rejoicing in the coming of Jesus and feeling unprepared for personal judgment?

2. How can we cultivate a mindset rooted in the gospel that enables us to rejoice, pray, and give thanks in all circumstances?

3. What practical steps can we take to cooperate with the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, avoiding quenching His fire and embracing His sanctifying work?

On the second Sunday of Advent, we reflect on impatience in a fast-paced world and contemplate our waiting for the return of Jesus. We dig into 2 Peter 3:8–9, which addresses the delay of Jesus' return, emphasizes God's patience, and calls us to live in purity and readiness for the promised new heaven and new earth. As we delve into Peter's message, we are reminded to consider God's patience as an opportunity for repentance and faithful living each day.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. How does the concept of God's patience, as described by Peter in 2 Peter 3:8-9, challenge our human understanding of time and urgency regarding the return of Jesus?

2. In light of the impending judgment and the call for a pure and holy life, how does Peter's message in 2 Peter 3:10-12 encourage believers to prioritize eternal values over worldly pursuits?

3. According to Peter's teaching about the promise of a new heaven and a new earth in 2 Peter 3:13-14, how does this hope shape the way believers wait for the return of Jesus and live their lives in the present?

Advent serves as a time of anticipation, alertness, and assurance as we look forward to the second coming of Jesus. As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ we are called to keep awake and focus on our call to a holy life and prioritize eternal matters over worldly distractions.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. Have you ever experienced a moment where you were caught unaware, perhaps like a last-minute request or obligation? How did that make you feel?

2. How does the concept of staying alert and being prepared, as discussed in the context of Jesus' return, differ from simply being ready so that you're not caught doing something wrong?

3. How do you reconcile the anxiety or apprehension often associated with anticipating Jesus' second coming with the assurance of God's sovereignty?

Join us as we explore Jesus' confrontations with the Pharisees in Luke 11:37-54, illuminating their hypocrisy and the transformative power of authentic faith. 

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. Reflecting on Pastor Mark’s story of the weeping willow tree, how does the metaphor of outward appearance versus inner authenticity resonate with the broader themes of hypocrisy and genuine faith explored in the text?

2. Jesus confronted the Pharisees for prioritizing ritualistic rules over the true essence of faith and righteousness. How does this confrontation parallel contemporary societal norms or personal practices that may emphasize appearances over genuine values or beliefs?

3. The passage draws attention to the concept of repentance and transformation. How can individuals today discern between superficial adherence to norms or traditions versus a genuine internal transformation that aligns with their beliefs and convictions?

Our thanks to God are more than a forced expression but a heartfelt response rooted in understanding his grace. Praise rooted in gratitude has a unifying power for believers. The call on us as the people of God is to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly, prompting a collective life of thanksgiving and worship. The aim is a symphony of thanks from God's covenant people in response to Christ's mercy.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. How does genuine gratitude, rooted in understanding God's grace, differ from obligatory thankfulness? 

2. In what ways does the collective embrace of Christ's word foster a unified symphony of thanks among believers? 

3. How does the concept of gratitude, as described in Colossians, influence individual lives and the communal identity of God's covenant people?

Exploring Luke 11:33-36 we consider three key aspects of Christ’s teaching using the imagery of light: the power, preservation, and plentiful nature of light. The Lord Jesus calls his people to reflect his light as they serve him in a dark world.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. How does the imagery of light convey the power and significance of the message of Jesus in the passage?

2. In what ways does Pastor Mark emphasize the idea that the light received from Jesus is not meant to be kept to oneself but should be shared with others?

3. How does the concept of light play a role in preserving and guiding individuals in their faith, and what practical implications does it have for believers in their daily lives?

Dive into the teachings of Jesus in Luke 11:29-32. Discover the gravity of Jesus' message and his call for repentance. We consider the Pharisees' rejection of Jesus' plea, explore our own shortcomings, and gain deeper insights into faith, repentance, and Jesus' teachings. Will we heed Jesus' call and to embrace humility and repentance?

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. What does Pastor Mark convey about the importance of understanding and heeding Jesus' warnings in Luke's Gospel?

2. How is the concept of repentance as taught by Jesus in Luke's Gospel discussed and applied to modern-day life?

3. How does Pastor Mark explore the reactions of different groups, such as the Pharisees and the people of Nineveh, to Jesus' teachings and calls for repentance in Luke's Gospel?

As we observe Reformation Sunday we reflect on the Romans 3:19-28.  This passage emphasizes the righteousness of God in contrast to human works. The law shows our inability to attain righteousness. Faith in Jesus grants righteousness as a gift. Our response is gratitude, recognizing God's grace.

Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message:

1. What are the three "Rs" used by Pastor Mark to summarize this passage?

2. What role does the concept of the "rigor of the law" play in the passage, and how does it relate to the idea of obtaining righteousness through faith in Jesus?

3. How does the passage encourage a response of humility and gratitude in light of the understanding that righteousness is a gift from God, not something earned through human works?

The final week in our series “Understanding Grace” has us looking at the doctrine of the Perseverance of the Saints. We understand that salvation is entirely a work of God, starting with the understanding of Total Depravity and continuing through Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and finally, Perseverance of the Saints. We take a look at how God's hold on believers is unwavering, providing refuge and protection. 

Consider these questions as you think about the message this week:

1. How does the concept of Total Depravity shape our understanding of salvation? How does it highlight the need for God's preserving work in our lives?

2. In what ways does the imagery of God as a refuge and fortress provide comfort and assurance for believers? How does this contrast with other forms of refuge we may seek in the world?

3. What is the significance of the statement from the Westminster Confession of Faith, "This faith has different degrees of strength and weakness. It may be attacked and weakened often, and in many ways, but it gets the victory"? How does this perspective on faith impact our outlook in times of spiritual struggle or doubt?

In week four of our series “Understanding Grace” we look at the doctrine of Irresistible Grace.  For those appointed to salvation, the Holy Spirit will work in their life to bring them to faith in Jesus Christ.

The Bible teaches us that we are all dead in sin and unable to come to God on our own. However, when the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin and draws us to Christ, we understand the irresistible nature of God’s grace. 

The doctrine of irresistible grace is a source of great comfort and assurance for believers. It reminds us that our salvation is not dependent on our own efforts, but on the grace of God. It also gives us confidence that God will continue His transforming work in our lives to conform us to the image of His Son.

Consider these questions as you think about the message this week:

1. How does the concept of "irresistible grace" challenge or align with the idea that individuals have the free will to accept or reject faith? What is the transformative role of the Holy Spirit in this process?

2. In what ways does the passage from Romans (Romans 8:28–34) illustrate the depth of God's grace? How does the text emphasize that God's grace is not dependent on human merit or actions?

3. How does the imagery of the Lord's Supper serve as a tangible representation of the Doctrines of Grace? How does partaking in this meal symbolize the believer's dependence on God's transformative work?

Join us on this journey as we continue to explore the doctrines of grace in the context of the Reformation and their relevance in our lives today. Listen in as we ponder upon Jesus' purpose, his atonement, and the assurance of salvation it provides. This is week three in our five week series "Understanding Grace" and we look at the doctrine of Limited (or Definite) Atonement.

Listen in as we unravel the concept of election and its depiction throughout scripture. Understand how God chose the people of Israel, not based on their merit but His unwavering love and faithfulness. Uncover the revelation that election isn't about us or our deeds, but rather about God and His steadfast love. This is week two in our series “Understanding Grace” looking at the teachings of the early 17th-century Synod of Dort in the Netherlands, examining the doctrines of grace which also include total depravity, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints.

As we begin our series “Understanding Grace” we look at the first point of the doctrines of grace and consider Total Depravity.  This doctrine emphasizes humanity's inherent sinfulness and our need for divine intervention. This is not a doctrine found in a verse or two here or there but we find it throughout holy scripture and in all of the different genres of literature found in the Bible.  Instead of driving us to despair this doctrine causes us to rejoice for the gift of salvation that has been given to us in Christ.

This week we take a look at the first deacons in Acts 6 and then consider the qualifications for officers in the Church. Elders and deacons are servants of Jesus who represent him in the church and the world that he might be glorified for his saving work for his people.

Believers recognize Jesus as the head of the church, uniting diverse people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. Church government, often misunderstood, is an essential part of Christ ruling over his church. In the system of government used in our church a plurality of elders protects and cares for God’s people.  This week we look at the delegation of Elders given to Moses in Numbers 11, the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15, and Paul’s charge to the Elders of Ephesus seen in Moses' delegation and the Jerusalem council. The presbyterian system of church government guards the church, guided by Scripture, and echoing God's protective grace and mercy.

Psalm 122 reflects on the significance of Jerusalem as a place of worship. Just as we have places that are dear to us, the Israelites held Jerusalem in high regard for its temple, a symbol of God's presence and salvation. The Psalmist's joy in approaching Jerusalem for festivals underscores the anticipation and reflection embedded in the journey. This Psalm encourages prayers for Jerusalem's peace and emphasizes the spiritual unity of believers gathered under God's protection. In the new covenant, our understanding of Jerusalem's significance extends to the church and Christ's work, fostering a worshipful community. 

In this week's message we consider the distinction between the Creator and His creation as we dig into Psalm 115. Here we see the psalmist emphasizes the worship of Yahweh, the sovereign and distinct God, in contrast to idols made by human hands. The psalm urges trust in the Lord, declaring His blessings for those who fear Him. The choice lies between earthly pursuits and eternal devotion to the powerful, steadfast God who alone deserves praise. 

In Psalm 42, the psalmist passionately longs for God's presence and worship in Jerusalem. Amidst distress and mockery, he reminds his soul to hope in God, for He is faithful and his salvation. In our affluent world, may we not be consumed by earthly desires, but seek true fulfillment in Christ, the living water. With access to God through Jesus, may we find peace and joy, knowing that He satisfies our deepest longings. Let us testify to His faithfulness, longing for His presence above all else.

This week we reflect on the struggles and desperation we face in life in light of Psalm 61. David, feeling fainthearted, seeks strength and safety in God during trials. He cries out for divine intervention, recognizing God's ever-present hearing. Despite feeling distant, David desires to dwell in God's presence, seeking refuge under His protective wings. The psalm expresses confidence in God's faithfulness and His role as a rock and stronghold. The prayer for the prolonged life of the king also carries messianic undertones, connecting to the hope of Christ's eternal reign.

This week we take a look at Psalm 58. This imprecatory psalm contains difficult imagery of judgment but, in light of Christ, it points us to the truth of salvation in Christ and his coming again to judge the living and the dead.

As we consider Psalm 53 we discuss the presence of sin and depravity in the world.  This is a theological truth that can be observed everywhere. The doctrine of original sin challenges the idea that the world's problems are solely caused by external factors.  In Psalm 53 we see that there is no one righteous, not even one.  All of humanity is inherently sinful.  Psalm 53 highlights the need for salvation and the impossibility of achieving righteousness on our own. It is not all bad news, the psalm closes up with the hope that God will be merciful and because we know the truth of the gospel we can read this passage in confidence knowing that Jesus was righteous in our place and we have salvation through him.

This week we consider the affection for the God the Psalmist has in Psalm 116.  We see an emphasis that the love for God is connected to His nature and the actions He has taken for His people. The Psalmist expresses their love for God because He has heard their voice and delivered them from a dire situation. The Psalmist understands that God's hearing is an act of mercy and grace. The passage uses vivid language to convey the Psalmist's experience of being surrounded by death and the profound deliverance God provides, keeping their feet from stumbling and allowing them to walk before God in the land of the living.

Psalm 43 is a prayer written as a desperate cry for deliverance. Psalm 43 is connected to Psalm 42, where the writer of the psalm expresses feelings of intense grief and also feelings of being abandoned by God. In the midst of being overwhelmed by chaos and the mocking of enemies, Psalm 43 shows devotion to God and the important of calling out to him for deliverance. This Psalm serves as a source of comfort and reminds us as believers that we are not alone in our struggles. We can pray this Psalm with confidence knowing that we have deliverance in the Lord Jesus Christ.

As we begin our Summer in the Psalms series we take a look at Psalm 113 and explore the significance of praising and worshiping the Triune God and consider the importance of God’s saving work in redeeming humanity.  This Psalm of praise highlights the deep significance of praise and a response to God’ sovereignty and glory.  As God’s servants we have the privilege of praising him for his majesty and power but also for his redeeming us to be a people for his own possession.  May we praise his holy name from the rising of the sun to its setting from this day and forevermore.