In 1 John we learn that through regeneration we come to know the Lord, and also how to have fellowship with Him and with one another. Brother John Mark reminds us that God is love, and therefore we are called to love one another. True love comes only from God, and being present in us, it is evidence that He abides in us. This love drives out fear and gives us assurance about our eternal destiny.

The Apostle Paul addresses the sovereignty of Christ above all things. Our focus should be entirely on Him. As David reflected on humanity, he wondered how God could be mindful of man and why the Son of Man would visit us—yet God made Him a little lower than the angels and crowned Him with glory and honor. Elder Chris proclaims that Christ came to restore all that Adam had marred and that His dominion is greater and will never end.

Elder Chris turns to Hebrews 2, where the Apostle Paul concludes that Christ is greater than the angels. He urges the church to pay close attention to the words of Christ, which are far superior to any others. Elder Chris explains that not putting attention on Christ can cause us to slip. One key to remaining focused is to reflect on the greatness of the salvation we have in Christ—and to remember where we would be without it: justly bound for hell.

Elder Ronald reminds us that when it comes to eternity, if God is for us, who can be against us? God did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, redeeming us from the curse of the law. Through His effectual call, God works in us. He sends the Spirit of His Son into our hearts. Just as God was with Jacob, Moses, and David, He is also with us today. Elder Ronald proclaims that although we are weak, we can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens us.

Elder David considers why we long for home, how we get there, and what it will be like when we get there. Just as God brought His people back from Egypt, Babylon, and other places of exile, He continues to gather His people under the New Testament. But in this world we live as exiles. Even when life seems at its best, we sense deep within that we are not yet home. Elder David explains that Christ bore the ultimate exile on the cross—the exile we deserved—so that we could be brought home forever, where great joy awaits.

Elder Ronald reflects on Romans 12: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” He emphasizes that God’s mercy is obtainable, abundant, and rich. Through several biblical examples, Elder Ronald highlights how we are unworthy of such mercy, yet it continues to be extended. He considers the mercy seat that covered the ark of the covenant—pointing to the Lord Jesus Christ. Mercy was key during Christ’s sacrifice for our sins. Reflecting on the mercies of God, It should compel us to faithfully gather with His people in church worship.