Sermons from April 2008

The Life of Thomas Shepard
Romans 4:1-8 Having reviewed the teaching of Solomon Stoddard and John Flavel on this subject, we begin a review of Thomas Shepard and his insights, since he also influenced Jonathan Edwards. We consider the life and works of Shepard, together with his character.

It is More Blessed to Give than to Receive
Acts 20:32-38 As Paul leaves the Ephesian Elders, he exhibits a spirit of selfless service that is a mark of his own Christlikeness.

Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day – WCF Chapter 21, Part 6
We conclude our studies in chapter 21 of the Westminster Confession of Faith, and our consideration of the Christian Sabbath.

Six Final Warnings
Galatians 5:17 John Flavel gives six warnings respectively to Saints and to Hypocrites. He first notes that Saints are more likely to judge themselves too harshly, and that hypocrites are likely to judge themselves too lightly.

Be On Your Guard
Acts 20:28-31 Paul calls the Ephesian elders to him on his journey to Jerusalem. After encouraging them to be faithful in their service, he warns them that spiritual warfare is all around them and exhorts them to be prepared for battle.

Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day – WCF Chapter 21, Part 5
We continue our studies in chapter 21 of the Westminster Confession of Faith: Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day. We focus on the Sabbath, seeing that the Lord has appointed a day of rest and worship.

The Eyes of the Blind Will be Opened
Mark 10:46-52 As Jesus made His last journey to Jerusalem, a blind beggar cries out ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ This man was Bartimaeus. Bartimaeus’ physical blindness is a picture to us of the spiritual blindness all mankind is born with.

Jesus Christ is Lord
Colossians 1:15-20 In this passage, Paul describes the Lord Jesus Christ in the most exalted and elevated of language, declaring His glory as God over all things. The focus is particularly on Jesus as Lord of creation and Jesus as Lord of salvation.

Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day – WCF Chapter 21, Part 4
Continuing our studies in Chapter 21 of the Confession, we come to the subject of the place for worship, the direction of worship and the necessity for public worship.

The Trial of Suffering
Hebrews 10:32-34 We consider another aspect of John Flavel’s teaching on the Marks of Grace. This time, we reflect on the fact that our response in times of severe suffering can reveal the condition of our hearts before the Lord.

The Whole Counsel of God
Acts 20:13-27 As Paul makes his way to Jerusalem to be there in time for Pentecost, he breaks his journey in Miletus and calls for the Ephesian Elders to meet him there.

Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day – WCF Chapter 21, Part 3
Continuing our studies in Chapter 21 of the Confession, we look at the ordinary and extraordinary elements of public worship.