What Did Christ's Mediation Really Accomplish? | April 24 In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN, teaches from 1 Timothy 2:5–6 and the Westminster Larger Catechism. The theme for April 24 is: What Did Christ's Mediation Really Accomplish? We explore how Jesus Christ, the one true Mediator between God and man, did not merely make salvation possible—He accomplished redemption. Drawing from Westminster Larger Catechism Question 57, we learn that through His mediation, Christ procured all the benefits of the covenant of grace. Discover how this truth impacts your faith, provides assurance, and calls you to rest in the finished work of Christ. Key Topics Covered: • What it means that Christ is our Mediator • The power and purpose of His redemptive work • The benefits of the covenant of grace • Assurance for believers that salvation is secure • The biblical teaching of effectual redemption Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:5–6 Confession: Westminster Larger Catechism Q.57 Location: Christ Church Presbyterian, Knoxville, Tennessee Subscribe for daily biblical encouragement rooted in Reformed theology. For more teaching and worship details, visit www.cometochrist.church. Share this episode with others who need clarity and comfort from God's Word. #1Timothy2 #WestminsterConfession #ReformedPodcast #Redemption #Sin #ReformedTheology #ChristianPodcast #StrengthForToday #ChristChurchKnoxville #Knoxville

Will I Ever Be Free From the Struggle With Sin? | April 23 What will life be like when the struggle with sin is finally over? In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN, walks through Hebrews 12:22–24 and Westminster Confession of Faith 9.5 to explore the glorious promise of the believer's future state. The Bible teaches that in heaven, God's people will be made perfectly and immutably free to do good alone. This is the consummation of God's redemptive plan—the day when we no longer battle temptation but are fully conformed to Christ. Whether you're weary from the fight or longing for hope, this devotional will lift your eyes to Mount Zion and the joy of your eternal inheritance. Subscribe to Strength for Today for daily Bible devotionals rooted in Reformed theology and the Westminster Standards. In this episode: • Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:22–24 • Confessional Reading: Westminster Confession of Faith 9.5 • Key Theme: Perfect freedom from sin in the state of glory • Gospel encouragement for weary believers Visit www.cometochrist.church to learn more about Christ Church Presbyterian. #Hebrews #WestminsterConfession #ReformedPodcast #Sanctification #FreeWill #Sin #ReformedTheology #ChristianPodcast #StrengthForToday #ChristChurchKnoxville #Knoxville

Why Do Christians Still Struggle With Sin If They Are Saved? | April 22 Why do Christians still struggle with sin even after they are saved? In this April 22 episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN walks us through Galatians 5:17 and Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 9.4 to help us understand the ongoing spiritual battle believers face between the flesh and the Spirit. This episode explains how, though Christians are truly set free from the bondage of sin through Christ, the remnants of corruption remain, leading to a real and daily struggle. Learn how the grace of God empowers believers to pursue holiness while acknowledging the reality of indwelling sin. Discover encouragement from God's Word and the Westminster Standards on how to walk by the Spirit, fight the good fight of faith, and rest in God's saving and sanctifying grace. Key Verse: Galatians 5:17 Theology: Westminster Confession of Faith 9.4 - Of Free Will Subscribe for biblical encouragement, Reformed theology, and gospel hope to strengthen you for today. Visit www.cometochrist.church to learn more about Christ Church Presbyterian and how to connect. #Galatians5 #WestminsterConfession #ReformedPodcast #Sanctification #FreeWill #ReformedTheology #ChristianPodcast #StrengthForToday #ChristChurchKnoxville #Knoxville

Why Can't People Save Themselves By Simply Choosing God? | April 21 What does the Bible teach about the human will after the Fall? In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN, unpacks 1 Corinthians 2:14 and Westminster Confession of Faith 9.3 to show that fallen man is completely unable to choose spiritual good apart from divine grace. You'll discover why the natural person cannot receive or understand the things of God and why true salvation is never the result of mere human decision but always the result of God's sovereign work. This episode will help you better understand total depravity, the necessity of regeneration, and the wonder of God's saving grace. Subscribe for daily biblical encouragement rooted in Reformed theology, and be equipped to live by faith in Christ. Watch more episodes and learn about Christ Church at www.cometochrist.church Keywords: human free will Bible, Reformed theology salvation, total depravity, 1 Corinthians 2:14 explained, Westminster Confession chapter 9, Strength for Today devotional, Reformed Presbyterian teaching, why can't man choose God, fallen man and grace, Christian podcast biblical teaching

What Kind of Freedom Did Adam Have Before the Fall? | April 20 In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN, explores the biblical and theological truth of human freedom before the Fall. Using Genesis 2:15-17 and the Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 9.2, we ask the vital question: What kind of freedom did Adam have in the Garden of Eden? Before sin entered the world, Adam was truly free to obey God—but that freedom was mutable, meaning he could also choose to disobey. This devotional explains what that means, how it shaped redemptive history, and why it matters for our understanding of salvation, responsibility, and the grace of God today. Key Topics Covered: The nature of free will before the Fall Adam's probation and responsibility What Genesis 2 teaches about obedience, choice, and consequences The importance of understanding mutable versus immutable freedom How Christ, the second Adam, fulfills what the first Adam failed to do Visit www.cometochrist.church to learn more and find additional resources from Christ Church Presbyterian. Tags: Genesis 2 explained, free will in the Bible, Adam's freedom, Reformed theology, Westminster Confession, covenant theology, biblical anthropology, Christ Church Presbyterian, daily Christian devotional, strength for today podcast, John Blevins pastor

If God Is Sovereign, Do My Choices Still Matter? | April 19 In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN, explores a foundational question: If God is sovereign, do our choices still matter? Drawing from James 1:13-14 and Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 9.1, we discover how the Bible teaches both God's sovereignty and our responsibility. James reminds us that temptation comes not from God but from our own desires. The Westminster Confession reinforces this by affirming that our wills are not forced by God to do good or evil—we are morally accountable. This episode explains the balance between God's sovereign rule and man's free will, highlighting the biblical truth that we are neither robots nor independent from our Creator. Instead, we are made with a will capable of real decisions, for which we are accountable before a holy God. This devotional encourages believers to take sin seriously, resist temptation, and lean on the grace of God who gives wisdom generously. It is perfect for anyone wrestling with questions about divine sovereignty, human freedom, and personal responsibility. Key Themes Covered: Biblical teaching on free will How God's sovereignty relates to human responsibility Westminster Confession of Faith on the will of man Practical implications for temptation and sin Subscribe to stay grounded in God's Word. Share this episode to encourage others with solid Reformed theology rooted in Scripture. Visit www.cometochrist.church for more content and resources. #Knoxville #FreeWill #Devotional

What Blessings Do We Receive Through Christ's Mediation? | April 18 In this April 18 episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN unpacks the powerful comfort of Psalm 121 alongside Westminster Larger Catechism Question 57. What benefits has Christ secured through His mediation? This episode explores how Jesus not only brings us redemption but also every blessing promised in the covenant of grace. You'll discover how Christ's continual intercession provides assurance, security, and help in every part of life. From our coming and going, to our daily struggles and eternal hope, the Lord is our keeper. Whether you are walking through suffering, battling doubt, or seeking peace, this episode will strengthen your heart and ground you in biblical truth. Listen as we reflect on: • The unshakable help of the Lord • The security purchased through Christ's blood • How Psalm 121 points us to Jesus as our Mediator Subscribe for daily devotionals rooted in Scripture and Reformed theology. Visit www.cometochrist.church for more resources and information about Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, Tennessee. #Psalm121 #ChristOurMediator #CovenantOfGrace #WestminsterCatechism #DailyDevotional #ReformedTheology #StrengthForToday #Knoxville #BiblicalHope #GospelTruth

How Does Christ Rule By His Word And Spirit? | April 17 In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian (PCA) in Knoxville, Tennessee, explores what it means that Jesus Christ rules and reigns through His Word and Spirit. Drawing from John 14:26-27 and the Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 8.8, we learn how Christ continues His mediatorial work by teaching, guiding, and sanctifying His people. Christ's reign is not distant or passive. He applies redemption personally and powerfully, governing our hearts, renewing our minds, and defeating our enemies. Through the Word and the Holy Spirit, He brings peace and boldness into the lives of believers. Whether you're a new Christian, a seasoned disciple, or someone curious about how Christ is active today, this episode will deepen your understanding of His present ministry and provide encouragement for your walk with God. Key Topics Covered: • How Jesus rules as our Mediator today • The ministry of the Holy Spirit • The ongoing application of Christ's redemption • Biblical peace versus worldly peace • The power of God's Word in the believer's life Scripture: John 14:26-27 Confession Reference: Westminster Confession of Faith 8.8 Subscribe for daily biblical encouragement rooted in Reformed theology. Visit www.cometochrist.church to learn more about Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville. #StrengthForToday #ChristRulesNow #ReformedTheology #WestminsterConfession #HolySpirit #ChristianDiscipleship #Knoxville #BiblicalTruth #DailyDevotional

How Does Christ Act As Our Mediator Today? | April 16 What is Jesus doing right now for His people? In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, TN, explores the ongoing work of Jesus Christ as our Mediator. Drawing from Acts 20:28 and the Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 8.7, we learn how Christ—both God and man—continues to apply the benefits of redemption to His church. This devotional teaches how Christ's divine and human natures work in perfect unity as He shepherds, intercedes, and rules over His people. This episode offers rich encouragement and practical application for believers seeking to rest in Christ's finished and ongoing work. Perfect for daily devotional use, theological reflection, and spiritual encouragement rooted in Reformed doctrine. Subscribe for more Christ-centered, Bible-driven content. Visit www.cometochrist.church to learn more about Christ Church Presbyterian or to connect with Pastor John. #Devotional #Jesus #Salvation #Knoxville

How Was Christ's Work Effective Before His Incarnation? | April 15 What does the Bible mean when it says Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever? In this episode of Strength for Today, Pastor John Blevins of Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville, Tennessee, explores how Christ's redemptive work was effective even before His incarnation. Drawing from Hebrews 13:8 and the Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 8.6, we see how God's plan of salvation has always centered on Christ—from the promises and types of the Old Testament to the cross and empty tomb. Discover how the benefits of Jesus' death and resurrection were applied to the elect in every age, and how this timeless truth gives us unshakable confidence in the gospel today. Whether you are new to the Christian faith or deeply rooted in Reformed theology, this devotional will encourage your heart with the eternal power and grace of our unchanging Savior. Visit www.cometochrist.church for more resources or to learn about Christ Church Presbyterian in Knoxville. Share this episode with others who are hungry to understand the richness of Christ's work throughout all of history. Keywords: Jesus Christ the same yesterday today forever, Hebrews 13 explained, Reformed theology devotional, Westminster Confession 8.6, Christ before the cross, gospel in the Old Testament, biblical theology podcast, Christ Church Presbyterian Knoxville, Pastor John Blevins, Strength for Today devotional