Darkness on SermonAudio

The New Testament gives us three primary metaphors to help us understand what the church is and how the members are to relate to one another. We are the body of Christ, the bride of Christ, and a building, a temple.

What does it mean to walk as children of light? In Ephesians 5:6–16, we learn why Christians are called not only to reject the works of darkness but also to reprove them in love. Having received Christ's gospel-centered love, believers are called to live differently from the world. This sermon explains why sin must be reproved, not with pride or condemnation, but with a redemptive desire to expose its emptiness and shame and point others toward Christ. Biblical reproof is part of loving one another, restoring fellow believers, and guiding the lost to the light of the gospel.

(AI Generated Summary) The sermon argues that the human mind is naturally hostile to God and oriented toward worldly treasures, resulting in spiritual darkness and a lack of true satisfaction. It emphasizes the necessity of the new birth, where God shines light into the heart to reorient affections toward Him as the ultimate treasure. Using the metaphor of a healthy eye and the parable of the hidden treasure, the message illustrates that only God can fully satisfy the soul, whereas earthly pursuits are like broken cisterns that hold no water. The Christian life is described as a constant reorientation away from worldly desires and back to Christ, who is the sole source of eternal life and joy. This theological framework culminates in the practice of the Lord's Supper, which serves as a regular reminder for believers to trust in Christ and recognize Him as their greatest delight.

This sermon was preached on October 18, 2026 at Antioch Presbyterian Church, a congregation of Calvary Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in America located in Woodruff, South Carolina. Pastor Zachary Groff preached this sermon entitled "Communing with God" on Exodus 24:9-11. For more information about Antioch Presbyterian Church, please visit ⁠antiochpca.com⁠ or contact us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected].

Why did Jesus choose the region of Caesarea Philippi, near Mount Hermon and its pagan sanctuaries, to ask His disciples, "Who do you say that I am?" Join Pastor Brandon Holthaus as we examine Peter's confession of Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of the living God, and Christ's declaration: "I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it." Explore the region's connections to pagan worship, ancient Jewish traditions concerning spiritual rebellion, and the significance of Jesus announcing His church in this setting. Discover how Christ's identity, the church's foundation, and His authority over death give believers confidence amid spiritual opposition. The church belongs to Jesus Christ—and neither the power of death nor the dominion of darkness can defeat His purposes.