Law saves us not by keeping it but by reminding us that we have no hope since we cannot keep it on our own; we need Christ or we face judgment alone without hope.

Sunday Service - Aug 9, 2026 - Rom 13:8-10, Exodus 22:25, Matthew 5:42, Proverbs 19:17, Galatians 6:10, I John 3:17-18, Matthew 5:46-47, Romans 3:20, Romans 3:28, I John 5:3, I John 2:3, Romans 12:2, Colossians 2:14

The sermon explores the true purpose of Sabbath worship by examining Jesus' interaction with the Pharisees in Mark chapter 2. It argues that the Sabbath was designed as a gift for human rest and refreshment rather than a burdensome legal requirement. The message connects this creation ordinance to the redemptive work of Christ, who fulfills the law and offers spiritual rest to the weary. Believers are encouraged to view Sunday worship not as a chore but as a joyful foretaste of eternal life in God's presence. This perspective transforms the Lord's Day into a celebration of redemption and a time for physical and spiritual renewal.

The sermon explores the purpose of God's law as a mirror to reveal humanity's fallen nature and inability to achieve righteousness. By examining passages from Deuteronomy, Leviticus, and Galatians, the text demonstrates that the law exposes deep-seated selfishness and rebellion inherent in human hearts. This conviction leads to a recognition of the need for Christ, who fulfills the law's demands on behalf of believers. The central message emphasizes that true enjoyment of God and glorification of Him are only possible through faith in Jesus. Ultimately, the law serves as a schoolmaster to drive sinners to the hope and salvation found in the gospel.

The sermon examines the greatest commandments to love God and neighbor, revealing that perfect adherence is impossible for fallen humanity. This realization of total failure under the law drives the listener to confess sin and recognize the need for a Savior. Jesus Christ fulfills the law's demands and bears the curse of sin on the cross, offering righteousness through faith alone. The message emphasizes that salvation is accessible immediately through repentance and trust in Christ rather than human effort. Ultimately, the gospel invites all to enter the kingdom of God by relying on Jesus' finished work.

In Galatians 3:15–29, Paul explains that while the Law leads us to Christ, it remains subordinate to God's promise; therefore, we must rest by faith in Christ as heirs of the promise. I. The Priority of the Promise (vv. 15–18) Application: Trust God's promise. II. The Purpose of the Law (vv. 19–25) Application: Use God's Law rightly. III. The Privileges of Believers (vv. 26–29) Application: Live as God's children.

This sermon was preached on August 9, 2026 at Antioch Presbyterian Church, a congregation of Calvary Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in America located in Woodruff, South Carolina. Pastor Zachary Groff preached this sermon entitled "Principles of Honor" on Exodus 21:7-11. For more information about Antioch Presbyterian Church, please visit ⁠antiochpca.com⁠ or contact us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected].

The sermon explores the Book of Ruth verse by verse, contrasting Elimelech's fear-driven departure from Bethlehem with Ruth's steadfast loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi. It highlights Ruth's self-sacrificial commitment to Naomi's God and people, which leads to her encounter with Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer who provides protection and provision. The narrative demonstrates how divine providence works through human faithfulness to restore Naomi's bitterness into joy and secure Ruth's future. Ultimately, the story reveals how a quiet, daily obedience and love for others is used God's redemptive plan for all his children, culminating in the lineage of King David and Jesus Christ.

Romans 8:1-4 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.