Forest Hill PCA Devotionals

In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Heidelberg Catechism Question 38, discussing why Jesus suffered under the earthly judge Pontius Pilate. He explains the concept of penal substitutionary atonement using passages from Luke, 2 Corinthians, and Galatians, showing how Christ was condemned in our place to free us from God's severe judgment.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a special Good Friday (2026) devotional on Question 37 of the Heidelberg Catechism. In this episode, we deeply meditate on the suffering of Jesus Christ. Through an exploration of the Apostles' Creed, Isaiah 53, and Hebrews 5, we look at how Christ willingly bore the wrath of God to redeem humanity, granting us grace, righteousness, and eternal life.

Paul stands before Herod Agrippa, giving us a Master Class in Gospel witness and apologetics.

Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Question 36 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on the profound benefits of Christ's holy conception and birth. He explains how Jesus, as both fully God and fully man, uniquely qualifies as our mediator to bridge the gap created by sin. Through exploring rich scriptures like 1 Timothy 2:5, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 8, Hebrews 9, and 1 Peter 1, this teaching highlights how Christ's perfect innocence covers our sin, purifies our conscience, and secures our eternal inheritance.

Join Pastor Intern Michael Taliercio for a devotional study of Acts 25. Explore how God’s sovereignty and wisdom protect Paul through the legal systems of the time, ensuring the Gospel continues its journey toward Rome.

Context: The devotional focuses on Question 35 of the Heidelberg Catechism, exploring the Apostles' Creed article that states Jesus was "conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary."

The Incarnation: The core teaching emphasizes that Jesus is the eternal Son of God who maintained His divine nature while taking on a true human nature, including flesh and blood, from the Virgin Mary through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Scriptural Evidence: Passages like Romans 9:4-5, 1 John 5:20, and Luke 1:35 are utilized to affirm that Jesus is simultaneously the true, eternal God and a human Israelite according to the flesh.

Theological Purpose: Drawing from Hebrews 2:17 and 4:15, the pastor explains that the Son of God had to become fully human to serve as a merciful, faithful, and sympathetic High Priest who understands our temptations.

Atonement: By taking on human flesh and living a sinless life, Jesus was uniquely equipped to represent humanity before God and offer Himself as a propitiation to satisfy divine justice for our sins.

Conclusion: The devotional concludes with a prayer of gratitude for Christ's sacrifice and an introduction to the historic incarnation hymn, Of the Father's Love Begotten.

Heidelberg Catechism Devotional #34: Why We Call Jesus "Our Lord"In this devotional, Pastor Jason van Bemmel explores Question 34 of the Heidelberg Catechism, explaining the profound significance of calling Jesus Christ "our Lord." Discover how Christ ransomed us from sin and the power of the devil—not with silver or gold, but with His own precious blood—to make us His own possession.Key Scripture Highlights:1 Peter 1: Ransomed by the blood of Christ.Colossians 1: Transferred from darkness to the Kingdom of the Son.Romans 14: Belonging to the Lord in life and in death.

WalkDevo #525 | Acts 24: Paul Before Felix & The Heart of the Gospel

Join Pastoral Intern Michael Tillerseo for day 525 of our daily walk through the Bible as we explore Acts 24. In this devotional, we examine Paul’s faithful defense before Governor Felix against the false accusations brought by the Sanhedrin. Despite imprisonment and opposition, Paul boldly keeps the resurrection of Jesus Christ at the very center of his testimony. We also reflect on Governor Felix’s tragic decision to prioritize earthly gain and the approval of others over submitting to the gospel, serving as a powerful reminder for us to faithfully share God's word and leave the results in His hands.

Pastor Jason van Bemmel explores Paul's trial before Governor Felix in Acts 24. Learn from Paul's example of a dignified defense, his refusal to return slander with slander, and his unwavering commitment to preaching righteousness, self-control, and judgment even to a corrupt authority.

Heidelberg Catechism Devotional #33: The Son of God

Join Pastor Jason van Bemmel as he explores Question 33 of the Heidelberg Catechism: Why is Jesus called God's "only begotten Son" when we are also called His children? This devotional delves into the eternal sonship of Christ and the beautiful reality of our adoption through grace.

Key Scripture: John 1:1-18, 1 John 4:9, Romans 8:14-17.