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The Canons of Dort The Fifth Head of Doctrine: The Perseverance of the Saings ARTICLE 7 - God does not remove the seed of regeneration (the Holy Spirit), and by His Word and Holy Spirit works repentance in the hearts of those He has elected that they might return humbly unto Him in faith. For in the first place, in these falls He preserves in them the incorruptible seed of regeneration from perishing or being totally lost; and again, by His Word and Spirit He certainly and effectually renews them to repentance, to a sincere and godly sorrow for their sins, that they may seek and obtain remission in the blood of the Mediator, may again experience the favor of a reconciled God, through faith adore His mercies, and henceforward more diligently work out their own salvation with fear and trembling.

This sermon explores the spiritual principles of Nehemiah chapter 4, emphasizing that genuine faith in God necessitates active obedience and readiness for spiritual warfare. The preacher argues against passive Christianity, asserting that believers must combine trust in the Lord with practical preparation to combat the enemy's tactics of fear and intimidation. By examining Nehemiah's leadership and the people's response, the message highlights how reverent submission to God displaces the fear of man and empowers the church to stand firm. The discourse further connects these Old Testament patterns to the New Testament call for a genuine revival characterized by experiential knowledge of Christ rather than mere intellectual assent. Ultimately, the central theme urges believers to pursue a deep, abiding reverence for God that fuels both personal holiness and corporate spiritual strength.

By and large the western church has lost the Awe of God. We have mastered the art of "doing" church and creating a "worship experience," that we have failed to notice the "glory of the LORD has departed the threshold of the temple." This is a call to restore Awe, Fear, Trembling, and the Glory of the Lord back in our lives individually and in our churches.

Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: "How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge? If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you. Because I have called and you refused to listen, have stretched out my hand and no one has heeded, because you have ignored all my counsel and would have none of my reproof, I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when terror strikes you, when terror strikes you like a storm and your calamity comes like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. Then they will call upon me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently but will not find me. Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices. For the simple are killed by their turning away, and the complacency of fools destroys them; but whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster."

The sermon explores Paul's plea for the Corinthian church to restore their relational bond by making room for him in their hearts. It highlights how Paul maintained integrity and boldness despite facing external conflicts and internal fears, demonstrating that true comfort comes from God through the ministry of faithful friends like Titus. The preacher emphasizes that God comforts the humble and uses repentant communities to heal weary servants. Ultimately, the message points to Christ as the foundation for reconciliation, urging listeners to open their hearts to others and receive divine comfort in times of affliction.

The sermon explores the spiritual legacy older believers should leave for younger generations, using Moses' song in Deuteronomy 32 as a primary framework. It emphasizes ascribing greatness to God, highlighting His mercy, grace, and steadfastness as essential truths to pass down. The preacher warns against the dangers of idolatry and disobedience, noting that such actions provoke God's jealousy and invite His loving chastening. Despite these warnings, the central message offers hope through God's boundless mercy, encouraging those who have strayed to return to Him without fear of being beyond forgiveness. Ultimately, the text calls listeners to prioritize God above all else and embrace His grace as they navigate life's challenges.

In Matthew 10, Jesus sends His disciples out with His authority and a clear message: the kingdom of heaven is at hand. They are called not merely to hear and admire Jesus, but to trust Him enough to obey—depending on Him for their provision, protection, and the outcome. Jesus does not promise that following Him will be easy. Loyalty to Christ will bring His people into conflict with the ways of the world and may cost us comfort, relationships, reputation, or even our lives. Yet we do not have to fear. Jesus promises His Spirit, the assurance that we belong to Him, and an eternal inheritance the world cannot take away. Matthew 10 ultimately asks a question of loyalty: Is Jesus worth following when obedience costs us something? Our good and gracious King calls for our complete allegiance—and His promises are enough.

The sermon addresses the pervasive struggle with anxious concern over life's necessities by examining Jesus' teaching in Luke 12. It distinguishes between necessary planning and sinful worry, urging believers to find comfort in God's fatherly providence rather than trying harder to suppress fear. Rev. Barnhart highlights evidence from creation, such as ravens and lilies, to demonstrate that the Creator who cares for lesser things will surely provide for His children. This trust is rooted in the gospel, where Christ lived a life of perfect reliance on the Father and died to reconcile sinners to God. Ultimately, believers are called to seek God's kingdom first, resting in the assurance that their Heavenly Father knows their needs and will provide what is truly good for them.