Predestination on SermonAudio

This sermon examines the burial of Jesus as recorded in John 19, emphasizing that his death was a predestined act of God to provide salvation through faith alone. The text highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, specifically that not a bone of Jesus would be broken, linking his death to the Passover lamb and the atonement for sin. The narrative addresses the theological significance of the spear thrust into Jesus' side, affirming his physical death and refuting the swoon theory. It also explores the courageous actions of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who risked their social and religious standing to honor Jesus, demonstrating that the power of the gospel transcends fear. The message concludes by encouraging believers to trust in the finished work of Christ and to boldly share their faith, as the same saving power remains available today. Scripture References: John 19:31-42 Acts 4:27 Luke 23:42-43 Ephesians 2:8-9 Luke 23:46 Zechariah 12:10 Leviticus 17:11 Deuteronomy 21:22-23 Exodus 12:46 Numbers 9:12 Isaiah 53:9 Benediction Romans 11:33,36

This sermon explores the profound assurance found in Romans 8, arguing that present sufferings are not worthy of comparison with the future glory revealed to believers. The message emphasizes that the Holy Spirit intercedes for the weak, helping Christians persevere in hope while they await the redemption of their bodies and the renewal of creation. It highlights the sovereignty of God through the golden chain of redemption, demonstrating that those whom He foreknew, He also predestined, called, justified, and glorified. The preacher asserts that no created thing, including death, life, or spiritual powers, can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life defined by steadfast hope and trust in God's unchanging purpose, even amidst severe trials and darkness.

This sermon is part of an ongoing verse by verse study through I Corinthians 2, dealing with the effectual and necessary work of God the Holy Spirit in revealing Christ as the Word of Life to every object of His eternal love.

The sermon explores the theological distinction between those born after the flesh and those born after the spirit, using the persecution of James and Peter in Acts 12 as a practical illustration. By drawing on Galatians 4, the message contrasts the covenant of bondage with the covenant of promise, asserting that only those regenerated by the Spirit can truly perceive and inherit the Kingdom of God. The discourse emphasizes that while the natural man persecutes the truth, the elect are predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ, finding comfort in the assurance that all things work together for their good. This pastoral teaching invites believers to rest in the sovereignty of God, recognizing that their identity is secure in the free woman, Jerusalem above, rather than in the works of the flesh.

Ephesians 1

The sermon addresses the theological objection that God's sovereign election renders Him unrighteous by arguing that His justice is defined by His own revealed character rather than human standards. It examines Paul's distinction between national Israel and the spiritual Israel of promise, emphasizing that salvation is based on divine choice rather than human works or lineage. The text highlights the potter and clay analogy to assert that creatures have no right to question the Creator's purposes, while also demonstrating God's long-suffering patience as He works out the salvation of the elect. Ultimately, the doctrine of predestination is presented not as a source of condemnation, but as a foundation for profound humility, security, and gratitude for the unmerited grace of God.

This exposition examines the Reformed doctrine of predestination, specifically focusing on the Westminster Confession of Faith's treatment of God's sovereign decree regarding the non-elect and the assurance of the elect. The speaker emphasizes that God's withholding of mercy is an act of justice that glorifies His power, while the extension of mercy to the elect is purely of grace, stripping believers of any grounds for pride. By referencing Romans 9 and 2 Peter 1, this episode argues that true understanding of this high mystery leads not to intellectual arrogance but to deep reverence, humility, and diligent obedience. It concludes by urging believers to find abundant consolation in the certainty of their effectual calling, ensuring that theological knowledge fuels praise and active participation in the local church rather than mere academic curiosity.

John 15:16 "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you." King James Version