The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it. (Psalms 68:11) ~~~~~ A Lord's Day Afternoon Service. ~~~~~ **Sermon Summary:** The sermon explores the divine origin of Scripture and preaching through the lens of Psalm 68:11, emphasizing that God actively gives His Word for various purposes. It highlights how providence aligns with biblical truth to provide assurance, direction, reproof, and comfort to believers. The text underscores the authority of the Great Commission and the inspiration of Scripture as historical facts grounded in Christ's redemptive work. By examining specific instances where God provided guidance or correction, the message encourages listeners to trust in the sovereign hand behind every preached word. Ultimately, it affirms that the Gospel is a gift of grace that saves and sustains those who receive it with faith.

Teaching about what Jesus says about divorce Matthew 19:1-12

The sermon examines Malachi 2:10-16 to expose two critical betrayals within the covenant community: intermarriage with idolaters and the unjust divorce of faithful wives. It argues that these actions profane the Mosaic covenant, violate the bond of companionship established by God, and disrupt the unity of believers. The text emphasizes that worship is rejected when accompanied by treacherous behavior, highlighting God's hatred for divorce as an act of violence against one's spouse. Drawing parallels to the New Covenant, the message urges believers to marry only within the faith and to honor marriage vows as sacred covenants witnessed by God. Ultimately, the preacher calls the congregation to reject individualism, recognize their interconnectedness in the body of Christ, and trust in God's wisdom regarding relationships.

This sermon interprets the opening of the first four seals in Revelation 6 as symbolic representations of God's ongoing judgment throughout the church age rather than predictions of specific future events. The preacher explains that the four horsemen—conquest, war, famine, and death—illustrate the intensifying turmoil and suffering that characterize the present era between Christ's first and second comings. By connecting these visions to Jesus' Olivet Discourse, the message emphasizes that such global catastrophes are not signs of God's absence but rather evidence of His sovereign control over history. The central theme asserts that while believers face persecution and natural disasters, these trials serve as foretastes of final judgment and point toward the ultimate victory of Christ. Consequently, the congregation is encouraged to find comfort and hope in the certainty of Jesus' return, which will bring an end to all evil and renew creation.

This sermon explores Psalm 53 to illustrate the total depravity of humanity and the necessity of divine grace. The preacher argues that the fool who claims there is no God suppresses the truth known through creation, resulting in moral corruption and spiritual blindness. While all people are condemned by their rebellion against God, the psalm offers hope through the promise of salvation coming from Zion. This salvation is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who rescues sinners not because of their wisdom or merit, but solely through God's mercy. The message calls believers to reject practical atheism and live in grateful dependence on God's sovereign grace.

Proposition: Because God's people can become complacent and proud, especially when things are going well, the Lord reminds us of His faithfulness and sovereign grace in calling Abram so that we might humble ourselves and praise Him. 1) The Progression of the Seed line from Shem to Terah (11:10-26) 2) The Family of Terah (11:27-32) 3) The Call of Abram (12:1-5) Closing Thoughts - See God's faithfulness and trust Him - See God's sovereign grace and humble ourselves before Him

Q and A

The sermon explores the theological significance of Israel's journey from the wilderness of Sin to Rephidim, framing their physical movement as a metaphor for progressive sanctification. It contrasts the people's faithless testing of God with the proper posture of humble trust and prayer that honors His name. By examining Moses as a type of Christ, the preacher highlights how Jesus serves as the ultimate mediator who bears judgment so believers might receive grace. The message urges listeners to reject arrogance and false accusations against God, instead relying on His sovereign providence in every detail of life. Ultimately, it calls for a faith that seeks to glorify God rather than demanding He serve human needs.