The work of our Great High Priest has a particular place and a particular character, described here as "not made with hands". This statement speaks to us of the way in which Jesus offered up the blood of His great sacrifice, as well as speaking of the nature of the incomprehensible act of God in sending Jesus to us as our Immanuel…

I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. (Psalms 138:2) ~~~~ This sermon was preached at Southill Strict Baptist Chapel on Lord's Day Afternoon. ~~~~ *1/ Where our worship is to be directed - "Toward thy holy temple" - Jesus 2/ What we are to praise and what for. - "Praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth" 3/ The cause of our worship and praise - "For thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name."* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon centers on Psalm 138:2, urging believers to direct their worship toward God's holy temple and praise His name for His lovingkindness and truth. It emphasizes that the Word of God is magnified above all else because it reveals Jesus Christ as the sole means of salvation and the foundation of true faith. The preacher contrasts genuine, persistent worship with superficial religiosity, using Daniel as an example of steadfast devotion amidst persecution. Key themes include the supremacy of Scripture, the necessity of Christ's atoning sacrifice, and the call to live as salt and light in a hostile world. Ultimately, the message invites the congregation to value God's Word above all temporal blessings and to find their rest and identity solely in Him.

The Children of Israel returned from captivity but it wasn't long when their hearts turned bad. The Book of Malachi describes this problem. This message applies that to us today.

Are your offerings precious? The Lord calls for sacrifices offered in faith.

The devotional emphasizes the importance of cultivating genuine gratitude by intentionally experiencing hunger through a family day of fasting and prayer. It encourages believers to focus on global poverty and displaced families, using resources from humanitarian organizations to educate children about those who lack basic necessities. By simulating scarcity with simple meals, families can develop a deeper appreciation for God's provision and empathize with the hungry. The message highlights that gratitude should stem from sincere awareness of one's blessings rather than routine habit. Ultimately, it calls for practical acts of sacrifice and giving to support those in need, fostering a spirit of thankfulness within the household.

Communion is an opportunity for the church to unify to remember the sacrifice of Christ. This regular activity of the church is an ordinance that is often misunderstood.

The sermon warns that God ceases to speak when His people develop a disdain for His Word, worship, and work. It identifies three specific attitudes of disrespect: arguing with Scripture, offering inferior sacrifices, and viewing service as a burden. These behaviors stem from taking God's love and daily blessings for granted rather than responding with gratitude. The preacher contrasts this spiritual deadness with the eternal rewards found in faithful labor for the Lord. Ultimately, restoring a vibrant relationship with God requires renewing one's love for Him and prioritizing sincere worship over mere religious routine.

The sermon emphasizes that salvation is entirely a gift of God's unmerited grace, received through faith rather than human effort or religious merit. It contrasts the hopeless, God-hating condition of humanity with the profound mercy demonstrated when God intervenes to save sinners who come empty-handed. The preacher stresses that believers are created for good works as a result of salvation, not as a cause for it, eliminating any ground for boasting. Central to this message is the concept of peace, where Christ breaks down the barriers between Jew and Gentile, reconciling all people to God through His sacrifice. Ultimately, the text urges listeners to abandon self-justification and rest solely in the finished work of Jesus Christ for their standing before God.