The sermon by Jeffrey Johnson delves into the complexities of the Mosaic covenant, its relationship to the moral law, and its implications for both Jews and Gentiles. Johnson argues that the Mosaic covenant is an administration of the eternal covenant of works, which is founded on God's moral law. This moral law, encapsulated in the Ten Commandments, is universal and eternal, unlike the civil and ceremonial laws that were specific to the Israelites.

Johnson emphasizes that the Mosaic covenant has become obsolete, as stated in Hebrews 8, due to Israel's failure to uphold it and because of the fulfillment of the law in Jesus Christ. However, the moral law, which is the foundation of the Mosaic covenant, still applies universally. Johnson warns that all people, regardless of their religious background, are under this moral law and will be held accountable for it.

The sermon then shifts focus to the pressing issue of how one can escape the binding contract of the moral law, which condemns all to judgment. Johnson outlines three steps for this:

1. Die to Self: One must realize their hopeless state under the moral law and die to their self-righteousness and self-reliance.
2. Accept Christ's Substitution: Jesus Christ took upon Himself the obligations and curses of the moral law. By faith, one must accept that Christ's death is their death, freeing them from the law's curses.
3. Believe in Jesus: Finally, one must forsake all self-righteousness and believe solely in Jesus Christ for salvation. This faith frees one from the binding contract of the moral law and grants them eternal life.

Johnson concludes by urging his listeners to turn to Jesus Christ, who alone can free them from the eternal contract of the moral law, offering them true rest and salvation.

The sermon by Jeffrey Johnson delves deeply into the Abrahamic Covenant, its implications, and its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Johnson argues that the Abrahamic Covenant is essentially an administration of the Covenant of Works, which required obedience to God's law for the fulfillment of its promises. The covenant was not just about physical circumcision but demanded a circumcised heart, symbolizing full obedience to God's law. The physical descendants of Abraham, the Jews, failed to meet these conditions, breaking the covenant and thereby not inheriting the promises.

Johnson emphasizes that the true fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant comes through Jesus Christ, the "one seed" of Abraham who perfectly obeyed God's law. Christ, therefore, inherits all the promises of the covenant, and through faith in Him, both Jews and Gentiles can become heirs to these promises. This faith unites believers with Christ, making them joint heirs with Him.

The sermon also tackles the misconception that being a physical descendant of Abraham or adhering to the law and circumcision guarantees one's status as God's chosen people. Johnson uses various New Testament passages to show that true children of Abraham are those who have faith, irrespective of their ethnic background.

Johnson concludes by stating that the Abrahamic Covenant is essentially the gospel message. It promises not just a temporal land but an eternal inheritance in a new heaven and a new earth. The covenant is fulfilled not by human works but by God's grace through faith in Christ, ensuring that all glory goes to God.

The sermon by Ryan Bush delves into the book of Hosea, specifically focusing on Hosea Chapter 2. The sermon begins with a prayer and a brief historical context to situate the audience in the timeline of the Old Testament. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the wider context to fully grasp the meaning of the text.

The sermon is divided into two main sections: the first deals with Israel's unfaithfulness to God, and the second discusses God's grace and mercy towards Israel. Hosea is presented as a prophet raised by God to call His people back to Him, warning them of the impending judgment if they continue in their unfaithfulness. The Israelites are shown to have turned to Baal worship, a god of prosperity and human reproduction, which also involved sexual immorality.

The preacher offers practical applications throughout the sermon, warning that sin will eventually be exposed and that God's discipline is for our spiritual good. He also cautions against the dangers of sexual immorality and advises those trapped in sin to seek help.

The sermon then shifts to the grace and mercy of God, describing how God allures Israel back to Him despite their unfaithfulness. This is seen as a representation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that God's mercy is available to all who turn to Him in faith.

The sermon concludes with a prayer, thanking God for His mercy and grace and asking for help to remember, cling to, and rejoice in God's mercy.

The sermon by Jeffrey Johnson delves into the concept of the Covenant of Works as a foundational element in understanding the Bible, the law, death, and the Gospel. Johnson argues that the Covenant of Works is not just an Old Testament concept but is integral to the entire biblical narrative.

1. Understanding the Law: Johnson begins by explaining that the Covenant of Works is essential for understanding the moral law. He cites the Garden of Eden as the first instance where this covenant was established. Adam and Eve were given the freedom to eat from any tree except the Tree of Knowledge. The law was delivered in a covenant form, and God does not enter into any relationships outside of law and covenant law.
2. Understanding Death: Johnson argues that death cannot be understood outside the context of the Covenant of Works. He counters the argument that the term "covenant" is not explicitly mentioned in Genesis by stating that the concept is inherently present. He emphasizes that the Covenant of Works is conditional and was broken when Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, leading to spiritual and physical death for humanity.
3. Understanding the Gospel: Johnson contends that the Covenant of Works is foundational for understanding the Gospel and salvation. He points out that just as we are condemned in Adam, we are made righteous in Christ. Christ did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. He obeyed the law and also suffered its penalty on our behalf, redeeming us from the curse of the law.
4. Christ's Fulfillment: Johnson concludes by highlighting how Christ is currently fulfilling the original mandates given to Adam and Eve. Christ is subduing the earth and bringing many sons and daughters to glory, not through procreation but through regeneration.

The sermon ends with a prayer asking God to help us appreciate the glorious truth of what has been done for us in Jesus Christ. Johnson mentions that in the next sermon, he will discuss the covenant God made with Abraham as another administration of the Covenant of Works.

Overall, Johnson argues that the Covenant of Works is not just an archaic or Old Testament concept but is vital for understanding the law, death, and ultimately, the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The sermon by Daniel Thursby focuses on the concept of spiritual adoption, emphasizing its significance in the Christian life. Drawing primarily from Romans 8 and Ephesians 1, Thursby outlines the privileges and responsibilities that come with being adopted into God's family. He argues that adoption is not merely a legal transaction but a transformation of identity, where believers take on God's name and become heirs to His glory.

Thursby highlights the contrast between our former "household of sin" under Satan and our new family under God. He explains that adoption provides immediate access to God ("Abba, Father") and the spiritual blessings that come with being His child. This adoption is not just a change in status but a change in identity, akin to receiving a new birth certificate with God's name on it.

The sermon also delves into the theological underpinnings of adoption, citing the Second London Baptist Confession and theologians like John Murray and John Gerudo. Thursby emphasizes that justification is a prerequisite for adoption, and all who are justified will be adopted into God's family.

In terms of practical application, Thursby suggests that adoption should be the lens through which believers view their Christian life. He argues that our primary identity should be as children of God, and this should guide our actions, ethics, and relationships. He also stresses the eternal bond between believers, which is stronger than any earthly familial ties.

Thursby concludes by reflecting on the immense love God has shown in adopting believers as His children, citing 1 John 3:1. He encourages the congregation to live in a manner worthy of this new identity and to remember that the world's rejection is a result of its ignorance of God.

The sermon ends with a prayer, asking God to help believers live up to their new identity and to proclaim the good news of spiritual adoption to the world.

This sermon by Jeffrey Johnson focuses on the importance of community within the Christian faith, specifically the role of believers in restoring those who have strayed from the path. Drawing from the Epistle of James and other scriptures, Johnson underscores the obligation to gently correct brothers and sisters in the faith, always acting in a spirit of humility and love. He warns against the dangers of self-righteousness and emphasizes that correction should not be a source of personal delight but should stem from a genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others.

Johnson also discusses the role of encouragement and positive reinforcement, especially in addressing "small sins," and highlights the respect due to elders when offering them correction. The ultimate solution to wandering from faith, according to Johnson, is the gospel itself, which offers God's boundless grace and forgiveness. Individuals who have wandered are not beyond redemption; they are precisely the people for whom grace exists.

Furthermore, the sermon touches upon the themes of God's promises, the warnings found in the Book of Hebrews, and the need for balance in seeking assurance of salvation. Johnson advises against placing assurance in a past date of conversion, instead encouraging believers to trust in the stability and promises of Jesus Christ.

The sermon ends by emphasizing that it is both a privilege and responsibility for Christians to be used by God in the preservation and restoration of His people, helping to "save souls from death" and "cover a multitude of sins."

This sermon by James Fetterly delves into the book of Hosea, a minor prophet in the Old Testament, to explore the themes of God's steadfast love, covenantal faithfulness, and the consequences of breaking that covenant. The sermon begins with a prayer, committing the time to God and asking for wisdom and understanding.

The book of Hosea is divided into two main sections: chapters 1-3 focus on Hosea's marriage to Gomer, an unfaithful wife, and chapters 4-14 focus on God's relationship with Israel, His unfaithful people. Hosea's marriage serves as a symbol of God's relationship with Israel, illustrating His unwavering love despite their unfaithfulness.

The sermon highlights key verses from Hosea, emphasizing God's desire for covenantal faithfulness ("steadfast love") over mere ritualistic sacrifices. It also points out that God's ultimate intent, even in judgment, is restoration and salvation. The sermon makes connections to the New Testament, noting how Paul and Peter also refer to Hosea to explain God's enduring love and the fulfillment of His promises in Christ.

The sermon concludes by drawing parallels between the story of Hosea and Gomer and the story of Christ and the Church. Just as Hosea loved and redeemed Gomer despite her unfaithfulness, so too has Christ loved and redeemed His Church. The sermon ends with a prayer, asking God to teach the congregation more about His character and how they should respond to His love and faithfulness.

Ryan Bush delves into the multifaceted work of Christ as Mediator, breaking it down into two key components: Expiation and Propitiation. Using a tapestry metaphor, he explains that these two elements are like intertwined threads that together create the full picture of Christ's mediation between God and humanity.

Starting with mediation, Bush references 1 Timothy 2:5-6 to clarify that Christ serves as a mediator between God and men, bridging the gap caused by sin. Unlike an advocate, who represents one party, a mediator takes into account the interests of both conflicting parties. In this case, Christ is uniquely qualified to be our mediator because He is both fully God and fully man.

Bush then dives into expiation, the first thread in the tapestry, explaining it as the act by which Christ's blood cleanses our sins. He likens it to legal jargon, where a penalty or fine is paid to address an offense. Using biblical references, he establishes that expiation is a transaction that deals with our sins as offenses against God the Judge. The "wages of sin is death," so Christ pays this penalty through His sacrifice, effectively "nailing" our debt to the cross.

The second thread, propitiation, is described as the appeasement of the offended party—God, in this case. Referencing 1 John 2:2 and 4:10, Bush clarifies that while expiation deals with the offense (sin), propitiation is focused on the offended (God). The propitiatory work of Christ transforms God's wrath into love, changing our relationship with Him from enmity to friendship. Propitiation is relational and addresses God as the Father, not just the Judge.

To illustrate, Bush gives the example of two neighboring farmers, one of whose son accidentally sets the other’s property on fire. Even if the father of the boy compensates for the loss (expiation), the relationship remains strained until the offended farmer’s wrath is appeased (propitiation).

Bush emphasizes that understanding both elements—expiation and propitiation—is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of Christ's role as our mediator. Christ's sacrifice does not merely cleanse us of our sins (expiation); it also restores our relationship with God by turning His wrath into love (propitiation). The effectiveness of this work is due to the incomprehensible love God the Father has for God the Son.

Finally, Bush shares a moving testimony from Sarah Edwards, wife of theologian Jonathan Edwards, capturing the transformative power of understanding God's love fully. This knowledge assures believers that God's love is as steadfast for them as it is for Jesus Christ, offering both hope and peace.

Overall, Bush's podcast serves as a deep theological exposition aimed at encouraging believers to recognize the intricate, dual nature of Christ’s mediation, so that they may rejoice in the complete redemption and love they have in God through Christ.

In this insightful final episode of our 7-part series on Biblical marriage, we delve deep into the Apostle Paul's teachings in Ephesians 5. By drawing rich connections between the relationship of Christ and the Church, we unearth the heavenly design that God has set forth for earthly marriages. This podcast is a blend of expository teaching, theological reflection, and practical wisdom, all rooted firmly in Scripture.

We begin by dissecting the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives as they reflect Christ's love for the Church and the Church's submission to Him. Through a verse-by-verse exploration, we shed light on the three foundational themes for a Christ-centered marriage: the arrangement of the relationship, the purification and protection by Christ, and the unconditional love that fuels it all.

By examining symbolic elements, historical context, and practical applications, we provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of what it means to truly glorify God in matrimony. This episode not only serves as a guide for couples striving for a Christ-like marriage but also prompts all believers to fix their eyes on the eternal marriage between Christ and His Church.

Whether you're single, engaged, or have been married for decades, this episode is designed to deepen your understanding of God's magnificent plan for marriage and draw you closer to the divine love story that surpasses all earthly relationships. So join us as we conclude this series with an enriching journey through Ephesians 5, and let your marriage be a reflection of the divine, eternal union between Christ and His Church. Amen.

In this powerful sermon, Pastor Jeffrey Johnson explores the concept of powerful prayers, and how one's faith can, metaphorically, move mountains. Drawing extensively from biblical texts, Pastor Johnson outlines five key attributes that constitute powerful prayers, likening them to Elijah's effective and fervent prayer life.

1. A Holy Life: Emphasizing righteousness, Pastor Johnson discusses how sin can obstruct our prayers. He asserts that a holy life, which involves confession and repentance, is conducive to a powerful prayer life
2. Fervent Prayer: Pastor Johnson delineates the significance of fervency in prayer, arguing that effective prayers are impassioned, earnest, and fervent, much like the prayers of the biblical figure Elijah
3. Praying According to God's Will: The sermon stresses the importance of praying in line with God's will, rather than temporal or selfish desires. Praying for eternal things, such as God's glory, salvation, and revival, constitutes praying correctly.
4. Praying with Faith: Pastor Johnson argues that powerful prayers involve faith, underscoring that without faith, prayers are pointless. He illustrates this with stories from the Bible, such as Jesus healing the two blind men, emphasizing the importance of unwavering faith in prayer.
5. Praying without Ceasing: Persistence in prayer, Pastor Johnson elucidates, is vital. Even when answers to prayers seem delayed, one must persist, just as Elijah did when he prayed for rain.
   
   Pastor Johnson concludes his sermon by exhorting the congregation to see the desperate times in which we live and to persist in prayer, not giving up, but instead waiting upon God to work. The sermon emphasizes that prayer is powerful and can have a significant impact when done earnestly, fervently, and persistently, aligning with God's will and bolstered by faith.