Reading Service: written by Pastor L. J. Bilkes

Pastor John Mark Armstrong provides the 41st sermon in Pastor Merson's series on Romans. The sermon contrasts human effort with divine grace, arguing that salvation is received through faith in Jesus Christ rather than earned by religious works or lineage. It explores the logical progression of the gospel message, emphasizing that belief comes from hearing the Word of God proclaimed accurately. The speaker highlights the critical importance of truth over cultural preferences or emotional comfort when sharing the good news. Believers are called to be faithful proclaimers of this truth, trusting in God's sovereignty for the results. Ultimately, the message urges listeners to rest in Christ's finished work and actively share the invitation to salvation with others.

We praise and testify of our God who brings judgment against the wicked. Preached at Rose Point Reformed Presbyterian Church, New Castle, PA

I. The Precious Deliverance II. The Solid Basis III. The Sure Comfort

The sermon explores the concept of Christian liberty as presented in 1 Corinthians 9, emphasizing how believers must willingly set aside their rights to avoid hindering the gospel. It highlights Paul's decision to waive his financial support from the church, demonstrating that true freedom involves selfless service rather than personal gain. The preacher contrasts mere obedience to God's commands with the joy found in going beyond those obligations for the sake of others. This passage serves as a model for modern Christians to examine their own lives and identify areas where they might need to sacrifice comfort or preference to effectively witness to the lost. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to exercise their freedom with humility and love, prioritizing the spiritual growth of others over personal privilege.

I. God wants you to cry out to Him II. Jesus understands a grieving heart III. Man does not know what a day will bring IV. Look unto Jesus (Heb 12:1-2) A. It is better by far to be with Christ V. Comfort one another (1 Thess 4:17-18)

When suffering comes from enemies it carries a unique power to despair, because there is a face on the other side of the pain. Psalm 17 enters that suffering and gives six resources: petition boldly, appeal to righteousness, remember what God has done, trust his justice against the wicked, hope in the resurrection, and rest in Jesus, who prayed this psalm without qualification and was turned away so that we never would be.

The sermon explores the universal human experience of fear and anxiety when facing separation or being alone, drawing from personal childhood anecdotes about kindergarten and bedtime. It contrasts this natural discomfort with the comforting assurance that believers are never truly abandoned because God is always present. The message highlights the temporary nature of earthly separations while pointing toward the eternal hope of gathering together in heaven to worship God. This perspective offers comfort by shifting focus from current isolation to future unity and divine companionship. Ultimately, it encourages trust in God's constant presence as a source of peace amidst life's transitions.

The sermon examines Mark's sandwich narrative structure to contrast the fearful faithfulness of the women with the courageous faithfulness of Joseph of Arimathea. It argues that genuine discipleship is not defined by the absence of fear but by obedience despite it, highlighting how both groups remained faithful to Jesus during His burial. The preacher challenges believers to identify publicly with Christ even when it costs them reputation or comfort, using Joseph's boldness as a model. Simultaneously, it offers encouragement to those who feel weak or anxious, affirming that trembling does not preclude faithfulness. Ultimately, the message points to Jesus' perfect faithfulness on the cross as the foundation for Christian hope and patience with imperfect followers.