Doubt on SermonAudio

As you make your way through this morning's bulletin, I have no doubt that your attention will be caught by the several hymns that are traditionally associated with the Christmas season. Yes, I realize it is July not December. What these hymns have in common with the rest of the service, and particularly this morning's sermon text from Psalm 47, is a focus on God's plan of redemption for the nations. All through this morning, we'll read of Jesus' care for "other sheep that are not of this fold" (John 11:16) and His rule over the entire "kingdom of this world" (Revelation 11:16). We'll hear the command for "all peoples" to rejoice (Psalm 47:1) because "God reigns over the nations" (Psalm 47:8) and that our various heritages are chosen for us by Him (Psalm 47:4). We'll hear the declaration that "from the rising of the sun to its setting [His] name will be great among the nations" (Malachi 1:11). In response, we sing "Let every kindred, every tribe … crown Him Lord of all," "At the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, every tongue confess Him King of glory now," and (even though it isn't December) "He rules the world with truth and grace and makes the nations prove." God's plan of redemption has always included the "heirs of gentile thrones" as the "people of the God of Abraham" (Psalm 47:9). The promised Messiah was not merely the hope of a single desert tribe, but the "dear desire of every nation." —Henry C. Haffner

The sermon examines the progressive spiritual virtues outlined in 2 Peter 1, urging believers to cultivate faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. It addresses two groups of listeners: those who have forgotten their purification from sin and those doubting their salvation, offering this list as evidence of genuine faith. The preacher emphasizes that these qualities must be added diligently to one's existing faith, which serves as the essential foundation for all Christian growth. By abiding in Christ and allowing trials to produce patience, believers can confirm their calling and avoid spiritual barrenness. Ultimately, the message calls for a vibrant, active walk with God that reflects His character and demonstrates the reality of salvation through love and self-control.

The devotional centers on the faith of Rahab, a woman of questionable reputation in Jericho, who is spared during the city's destruction because she believed the reports of God's power, heard through traveling traders, and acted on that faith by protecting the Israelite spies. Her story illustrates that faith is not merely intellectual assent but a lived commitment that risks everything, and it underscores God's sovereign grace that extends even to the marginalized. The preacher emphasizes that faith is nurtured through hearing God's Word—historically through human messengers, now through the written Scripture—and calls believers to trust God's promises despite doubt and cultural resistance. Drawing from the father's plea, 'Lord, I believe, but help my unbelief,' the message challenges listeners to acknowledge their spiritual struggles while persisting in faith, recognizing that God honors even imperfect belief when it leads to action. Ultimately, the sermon affirms that God's deliverance is available to all who trust in His Word, regardless of past or present circumstances.

What is Job's biggest concern? Job 9:27–10:22 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord's Day. In these thirty-one verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Job's biggest concern is that, while he had been hoping for mercy through a Mediator, it does not seem to him that he actually has this with God. The devotional explores Job's desperate transition from addressing his friends to directly pleading with God, highlighting his fear that he is being judged by strict justice rather than grace. It emphasizes Job's longing for a Mediator who can bridge the gap between humanity and the holy and just God, contrasting this need with Bildad's insufficient advice to simply improve one's behavior. Pastor applies Job's anguish to the terror believers may feel when their assurance of salvation is shaken by suffering or doubt. Rather than offering false comfort, the text encourages genuine wrestling with God, pointing to Christ as the ultimate Mediator who lays His hand on both parties. The message concludes with a call to rely on sovereign grace and the finished work of Jesus rather than personal merit or outward appearances of piety.

Without A Doubt! – Part 1 | 1 John 5:13 | Kevin Broyhill

Date: July 12, 2026 John 1:43-51 1. Called to Follow 2. Philip's Witness 3. The Nazareth Question 4. The King Who Knows 5. Doubt to Confession 6. Greater Things to Come

The Christian's trust in God's faithfulness is built upon a lifetime of personal experience that produces praise. 1. The Time Factor 2. The Trust Factor 3. The Testimony Factor

Closing Thought: Beloved, assurance is not presumption, and doubt is not always humility. God gives assurance for the accused heart, not by telling us to ignore sin, but by calling us to bring our hearts before Him. So, when your heart condemns you, do not make your heart the highest court. If there is sin, confess it; if there is false accusation, reject it; and in both cases, bring your heart before the God who is greater than your heart, rest in Christ who answers every accusation, walk in His commands, love the brethren, and trust the Spirit whom He has given.

This sermon explores the biblical account of Peter walking on water to illustrate how believers should respond to life's trials. The preacher emphasizes that storms often come upon those who are in God's will, serving as opportunities for spiritual growth rather than punishment for disobedience. By examining Peter's initial doubt and subsequent faith, the message encourages listeners to step out of their comfort zones and trust Jesus amidst uncertainty. The central theme highlights that while human faith may be small and struggling, it is sufficient when anchored in Christ's power. Ultimately, the sermon calls the congregation to recognize God's presence in their difficulties and to rely on Him for strength and rescue.