The severe judgment on Babylon shows God's sovereignty and justice; more than that, it anticipates the final judgment and demonstrates that God accomplishes mercy for his people through judgment.

Delivered at Grace Reformed Church of Bakersfield. Because of who God is, the richly deserved judgment on Ephraim will not be final.

RCUS 279th Synod Worship Service The Lord's faithfulness to the RCUS for 300 years is a compelling reason to continue and grow in steadfast adherence to his word, over all opposition.

With some unusual phrases Paul makes the point that being in Christ involves more than a change in behavior or belief; it involves a new, transformative relationship that results in being like Christ.

God has turned away his righteous anger toward us, gathered us in comfort, and drawn us to the abundant wellsprings of salvation.

Our new calling in Christ requires a pattern of life no longer characterized by blind and unfeeling hearts as those dead in sin putrefy further.

By setting the root of Jesse as a banner, God gathers his chosen remnant both out of and from all the nations and gives them genuine unity.

The call to grow up into Christ includes: 1) Leaving aside childish instability and gullibility. 2) Discussing doctrine in love. 3) Receiving from Christ and sharing with the body.

The fruit of Christ's glorious work is a holy peace that pervades creation.

The way from where we begin to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ passes through the ministry of the word.