Every Christian faces trials. Some arrive suddenly, while others remain far longer than we would choose. During these difficult seasons, believers often wonder what God is doing and whether their suffering has any purpose. In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains what James 1:2–3 and 1 Peter 1:6–7 teach about trials and testing. Scripture shows that trials are not random interruptions to the Christian life. God uses them to test the genuineness of our faith, produce steadfastness, deepen our trust, and lead us toward spiritual maturity. Counting trials as joy does not mean ignoring pain or pretending difficulties are easy. It means trusting that God is faithfully working through circumstances we may not yet understand. For more from Contending for the Word Q&A please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/

The sermon examines the final miracle of Jesus in John 21, where the disciples catch a multitude of fish after failing to do so on their own. This event serves as a powerful reminder that spiritual fruitfulness depends entirely on Christ's power rather than human effort or tradition. The preacher emphasizes that just as the disciples could not succeed without His command, believers must rely on divine strength for effective ministry and salvation. By reflecting on past encounters with God, the congregation is encouraged to trust in His sovereignty and recognize their role as laborers working together with Him. Ultimately, the message affirms that success in the Christian life is found only through abiding in Jesus Christ.

The Christian life is filled with paradoxes—apparent contradictions. To live you must die (Matt. 10:39). The last shall be first (Matt. 20:16). Here's another one: To be exalted you must humble yourself. These statements don't seem like they could be right; they go against what feels natural to us. But such paradoxes must be true since they are backed by the authority of God. James 4:6 is one of the great texts of the Bible: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." We should memorize it and use it as a motto that guides our decisions and encourages us with the prospect of great reward. This divine motto presupposes a serious problem, prescribes a difficult duty, and promises a great blessing.

Over the course of eight weeks, Pastoral Assistant and Intern Steven Tavel will lead us in exploring one of the most beautiful and foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. Covenant theology is not merely a theological system; it is the way the Scriptures teach us about God's gracious relationship with His people. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture reveals one unfolding plan of redemption centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ. Severn Run Evangelical Presbyterian Church is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), devoted to the pursuit of Scripture, prayer, fellowship, and worship as we seek to faithfully reach our community for Christ.

📅Sunday 2nd August, 2026 » Morning Service 📣 Three Comforts For The Christian Life 📙 1 John 2:12-14 🎤Preacher: Pastor Francis Kaunda

Romans 11:11-36 Galatians 6:11-16 Romans 9:6-7 Isaiah 59:15b-21