Bryce Ave Presbyterian Church Sermons

8/28/2011

Deadly Sin and A Great Mediator

Exodus 32:1-14
Rev. Daniel Rose

8/21/2011

A Soothing Aroma to the Lord

Leviticus 1:1-17
Rev. Henry Fernandez
All the Levitical sacrifices point to Christ. The burnt offering (the first and most common sacrifice of the Old Testament) shows believers that Christ alone is the sacrificial fragrance that is acceptable to God.

08/14/2011

Learning to Make the Distinction: Treating God as Holy

Leviticus 10:1-11
Rev. Henry Fernandez
As we begin a study of the book of Leviticus, we consider the central theme of the book: God's holiness. In the shocking story of the death of the young priests, Nadab and Abihu, we see the exacting reality of God's holiness and the responsibility of God's people to learn to make distinctions between the holy and unholy.

08/07/2011

What Can Wash Away My Sin?

Hebrews 10:1-10
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The author of Hebrews emphasizes throughout the epistle the fact that the OT system of sacrifices and ceremonial law had an inherent problem (cf. Heb. 7:18,19) — it could not take away sin. Worshipers had to come again and again with various kinds of sacrifices to God to seek forgiveness. The entire OT system was one long shadow of the life and ministry of Christ.

The one time sacrifice of Jesus is the very heart and ground the salvation God pictured in the OT.

The author of Hebrews declares, with the old gospel hymn, "What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus!"

07/31/2011

Preserving the Gospel of Grace

Philippians 3:1-11
Rev. Daniel Rose

07/24/2011

Yahweh-Tsidkenu: Jesus is My Righteousness

Jeremiah 23:1-8
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The name of God that the prophet Jeremiah records as describing His nature is Yahweh-Tsidkenu — Jehovah Our Righteousness. It is a glorious name: God, who must condemn sin, is the very One, who in grace and mercy, is His people's righteousness. He is our substitute who imputes His righteousness to sinners giving them a right standing before Him. This is received by faith alone. This true is the essence of the Scriptures in both the Old and Testaments: How can sinful man be justified, made right with God? Only by imputed righteousness -- a righteousness not your own.

07/17/2011

The Sun of Righteousness Rises

Malachi 4:1-6
Rev. Henry Fernandez

07/10/2011

Mind the Gap

Matthew 3:13-17
Rev. Sid Druen

07/03/2011

A Song of Confidence in Times of Insecurity

Psalm 46:1-11
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Your security is in God alone, not in God plus anything else.

06/26/2011

Distinctive Talk

Malachi 3:13-18
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The LORD distinguishes between the righteous and the wicked by what comes out of an individual's mouth.

06/19/2011

Repentance's Practical Application: Tithing!

Malachi 3:7-12
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The way you use your resources, especially your finances, is a clear indicator of your relationship with God.

06/12/2011

Thou Changest Not!

Malachi 3:6-7a
Rev. Henry Fernandez
"The unchangeableness of God is the sheet-anchor of the Church." (Moore, quoted in Jamieson, Fausset, & Brown)
The doctrine of God's immutability is a solid comfort for believers. God's immutability guarantees that His justice will be carried out.  His immutability offers great comfort and encouragement to His covenant people: we are not consumed. God's unchanging nature presses home the truth that His standards are unwavering. God's unchanging natures assures repentant sinners of a hearty and warm welcome back.

06/05/2011

Wearying God: Disappointment with God's Providence

Malachi 2:17-3:5
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Seeing God's providence from the Lord's perspective keeps believers from disappointment and from the sin of grumbling. Believers are to see all of God's providence in the light of the glow of the refiner's fire.

05/29/2011

Dealing Treacherously: The Tragedy of Breaking Faith

Malachi 2:10-16
Rev. Henry Fernandez
You lose contact with the living God when you deal treacherously — break faith — with other people. Because you are part of the universal body of believers, your actions and attitudes affect the entire body. Thus, breaking faith with one another violates the covenant. Your relationship with others affects your relationship with God. The exhortation, then, is clear and simple: don't go back on your commitments; don't marry and unbeliever; and, don't divorce your wife.

05/22/2011

Cursed Blessing: When Leaders Lead in the Wrong Way

Malachi 2:1-9
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The goal of godly leadership is to turn God's people away from sin to blessing. Godly leaders turn people way from sin by their attitudes, lifestyle and teaching. This is a great blessing. Blessings can become curses when leaders dishonor God and lead His people in the wrong way. The influence of your leaders may determine your spiritual condition; it's a matter of influence.

05/15/2011

The Plague of Irreverence

Malachi 1:6-14
Rev. Henry Fernandez
God, the only living and true God, is worthy of absolute reverence (glory and fear) — His being, nature, character and works demand it. But His covenant people, forgetting God's amazing distinguishing love, begin to act in careless, thoughtless, even contemptuous, ways toward Him. They dishonor the majesty of God by their lax worship and life. Malachi calls God's covenant people to repentance for the sin of irreverence. The Lord God will never be without proper and appropriate worship. He seeks worshipers who will worship Him in 'spirit and in truth'.

05/08/2011

The Privilege of Being Loved

Malachi 1:1-5
Rev. Henry Fernandez
God's love for His covenant people crushes lax living.

05/01/2011

When Obedience Turns into Disillusionment

Malachi 3:13-15
Rev. Henry Fernandez
We begin a new series of sermons from the prophetic book of Malachi. We consider an overview of the book to grasp the sense and feel of the context and content of the book and see that the spiritual problems addressed in this short book are, perhaps, indicative of some the same issues believers face today.

04/24/2011

A Weeping Woman Turned into an Unwavering Witness

John 20:1-18
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The resurrection story is amazing and powerful. We see in this passage an amazing thing. In an age when a woman's testimony was not valid in a court of law, the Apostle John surprises us by recording the witness of woman as the first account of the resurrection of Jesus. Why? Because it was absolutely true.
The passage teaches us that the empty tomb was: an unsettling confusion; yet in it there was a compassionate confirmation, which became a triumphant commission.

04/17/2011

Behold Your King!

Luke 19:28-48
Rev. Henry Fernandez
On this Palm Sunday, we remember and consider the importance of Christ's Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. In this act of royal authority Jesus presents Himself as the King of Peace, the King of Compassion, and the King of Glory.

04/10/2011

The Conclusion: Regard, Guard, Grow, and Glorify

II Peter 3:15-18
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Peter brings his second letter to the scattered Christians to an end, concluding his discussion in same way he began it: he emphasizes grace. The command to Christians is this: grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

04/3/2011

The Sort of People We Ought to Be

II Peter 3:10-14
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The assurance and certainty of Christ's Second Coming motive believers to live confidently diligent lives of holiness. This is because (1) [negatively] the earth will evaporate with intense heat and fire when Christ comes and only the fruits of holiness will endure, and (2) [positively] the glorious radiance of Christ's kingdom - the new heavens and new earth - draws the faithful believer to it.

03/27/2011

The Promise of His Coming

II Peter 3:1-10
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Christ is coming! His delay calls you to repentance, not doubt!

03/20/2011

Better Not to Have Known: Can Believers Lose Salvation?

II Peter 2:18-22
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The Apostle Peter, as he warns the church about false teachers, states in verses 20-21 that "...the last state has become worse for them than the first. For it would be better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn away from the holy commandment handed on to them." Do Peter mean that a believer can lose his salvation?

Continuing the teaching of the previous sermon, we consider the doctrine of the "perseverance of the saints" and find God's comfort for struggling believers.

03/13/2011

Character Counts

II Peter 2:10b-22
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The difficult even harsh words — dogs and pigs! —the Apostle Peter writes in chapter two are for the believer's good; they are a warning. Peter confirms positive truth in a negative manner, and the effect is memorable and striking. In sum, Peter says this: don't follow the false teacher's example or lifestyle: character counts. Following their example will bring upon you God's just condemnation.

03/06/2011

Damnation Slumbereth Not, but the Lord Rescues the Godly

II Peter 2:1-10a
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The hard, unpopular and politically incorrect theme of God's just judgment upon sin is Peter's theme in these verses. He proves the doctrine and prophetic truth using three historical, biblical events. Peter's first point is this: judgment is sure.

But just as sure as judgment may be, so is the comforting truth of God's saving, rescuing grace in Christ for any who come to Him. Peter's second point is this: the Lord knows how to rescue His own.

Michael Green summarized the point well: "The God of justice cannot be flouted. The grace of God can be relied on."

02/27/2011

A More Sure Word

II Peter 1:12-21
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Peter reminds believers of the things in which they have been established. As the Apostle comes to the end of his life he presses home the unchanging truths upon which the Christian faith is based. A central, secure truth that must be kept in mind is this: the Word of God is more sure, more reliable, more steady than any experience. God's Word is a more sure word - and you can build your life on it. 

02/20/2011

Making Your Calling and Election Sure (Part 2, vv. 8-11)

II Peter 1:8-11
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Peter's exhortation to struggling believers is this: you must earnestly confirm you calling and election by making every effort to advance in the virtues that God's grace produces in your life. If you do this you will not be useless and unfruitful, you will avoid spiritual blindness and spiritual amnesia and God's calling and election of you will be confirmed in you.

02/13/2011

The Glorious Church of Christ

Psalm 48:1-14
Rev. Dan Rose

02/06/2011

Making Your Calling and Election Sure (Part 1, vv. 5-7)

II Peter 1:5-11
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Free grace engenders wholehearted effort in the life of the redeemed. Peter shows you how living faith is to be worked out practically.

01/30/2011

What's That Smell?

II Corinthians 2:14-17
Rev. Russ Scharf

01/23/2011

Great and Precious Promises

II Peter 1:3-4
Rev. Henry Fernandez

01/16/2011

Like Precious Faith

II Peter 1:1-2
Rev. Henry Fernandez
We begin a new series of sermon continuing in the study of Peter's epistles to the scattered churches of Asia Minor.

What advise would you give to your family and friends if you knew you were going to die soon? How would you encourage them in the faith? The goal of Peter's second letter — book of Second Peter — can be summed up this way: A proper understanding of the faith that is common to all believers everywhere will cause us to live holy lives, as defined by Scripture, and will give us the wherewithal to stave off false teaching and its attending practices as we wait for the certain and glorious return of Christ.

01/09/2011

Humility: God's Strategy for Resistance

I Peter 5:5-14
Rev. Henry Fernandez
God's strategy for resistance is humility! This is Peter's teaching: in the worst situations you must humble yourself under the mighty hand of God and He will lift you up out of your trial and trouble: in His time and in His way. There is no short-cut to consistent, successful, God-honoring Christian living.

01/02/2011

Shepherding God's Flock

I Peter 5:1-4
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Why would Peter address an exhortation to the elders of the church in the context of his teaching on suffering and persecution? Because the trials coming upon the church made consistent, godly, effective leadership imperative for their spiritual, and perhaps their physical survival.

Peter addresses elders in a public fashion, reviewing their exacting requirements as elders of God's flock, for the purpose of making sure everyone knows what God's requirements are thus holding everyone to the God's standard in all circumstances.

12/26/2010

John the Revelator's Christmas Story: A Woman, a Baby, and a Dragon — or The baby bound the bully and burglarized his bungalow

Revelation 12:1-12
Rev. Henry Fernandez
In an apocalyptic vision, the Apostle John portrays the history of redemption from the Old Testament's anticipation to the New Testament's fulfillment.
John's central point is this: Christ's birth in Bethlehem is God's victory over the dragon.

12/19/2010

In the Fullness of Time

Galatians 4:1-7
Rev. Henry Fernandez
As Christmas approaches we are encouraged by the Apostle Paul's words to a struggling church. In the context of teaching the difference between slavery to the Old Testament law and freedom and liberty in Christ, Paul points out the glory of the Incarnation:
Christ was sent by the Father, born as any other human being of a human mother, made subject to the Law of God, for the purpose of redeeming a people for Himself and giving them the adoption of sons!

12/12/2010

Don't Be Surprised: Keep on Rejoicing

I Peter 4:12-19
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Suffering perplexes believers: Why am I suffering if I am a child of God? Peter's answer to our perplexity in suffering is 'do not be surprised." In your suffering for Christ you can have joy and confidence.

12/05/2010

Living in the End Times: Doing Business Until He Returns

I Peter 4:7-11
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The coming of Christ should cause believers to want to live lives that are different from the rest of the world. How should we live in the light of the truth of the Second Coming? What does God require of us right now? Paul answered the question in I Thessalonians 4:11-5:11. How does Peter answer the same question? He says, with Jesus in Luke 19:13, "Do business till I come" — carry on business, especially as a banker or trader.

What is the business of the redeemed person as he waits for the coming of the Lord? Believers are to pray and love in humble service to the glory of God.

11/28/2010

To Arms! Put on Christ's Attitude Toward Sin

I Peter 4:1-6
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The thrust of I Pt. 4:1-6 is that is possible for you to endure suffering just as Christ has, living according to God's will, regardless of the unbelieving world's insults and attacks. Your temptation to fall back into your former ways may be strong but you can win the battle by putting on, arming yourself with Christ's attitude toward sin -- a defeated enemy with no power over you.

11/21/2010

Security in Suffering

I Peter 3:18-22
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The overarching, central theme of Peter's letter is suffering. Believers face unjust suffering for the sake and name of Christ. When suffering comes, its effects can be surprising and disheartening to a struggling believer. Peter, as a good pastor, prepares his fellow believers for suffering by arming believers with the strong security the finished work of Christ has purchased for them. God has never lost any of His people; His message has been the same throughout the ages. Therefore, believers are secure.

11/14/2010

Doing Good, Defending the Faith, Declaring Christ

I Peter 3:13-18
Rev. Henry Fernandez
As Peter begins a new section (as he continues his major theme of suffering) he asks: How are believers to deal with unjust suffering? His answer is clear: a person who has received the inheritance is called to show forth the truth of Christ in all areas of life by submission. He has the responsibility, while in the midst of suffering, to do good, to respond to all circumstances with a consistent witness to Christ and to follow God in the crisis or trail so that the Lord will be praised.

11/07/2010

Living in Harmony

I Peter 3:8-12
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Peter calls believers, the inheritors of God's grace and mercy, to harmonious relationships. When each part of the body is doing what it was meant to do by God, there is sweetness and harmony. But when one person is out of accord regarding relationships or position, there is disharmony and discord. Peter's exhortation, then, is this: live in submission to God's authority regarding His order for all relationships, then you will be living as a true heir of the salvation He has given you.

In this section the Apostle comes to the end of his exhortation on submission. Peter ties submission to suffering by saying that the goal of submission is peace, therefore, intently seek peace and hunt it down. As you hunt down peace there will be those who hate God and His people so much that they will cause Christ's people to suffer. Even in this context and setting we can have peace and are live in harmony.

10/31/2010

What Submission Looks Like at Home: Beautiful Wives and Considerate Husbands

I Peter 3:1-7
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Peter is teaching you how to live out the difficult assignment placed upon you by Christ as a believer of submission -- submission in every aspect of your life. The most difficult place to live out this command of submission is in your own home: more specifically, submission in your marriage relationship.
    Peter's call to responsible action is aimed at both marriage partners. Wives are called to develop beauty through godly submission. Husbands are called to develop a considerate lifestyle through understanding and respect.

10/24/2010

Wherever I Go, There You Care

Psalm 139:1-24
Rev. Sid Druen

10/17/2010

Costly Submission: Patiently Enduring Unjust Suffering

I Peter 2:18-25
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The way you put God's principles of submission into practice in your daily life is to imitate the example of Christ's submission to the Father. Peter applies the principle of submission (to the point of suffering) to the area of work relationships (employer-employee).

Biblical submission does not destroy the dignity of the one submitting. Biblical submission is submission in obedience to God in every aspect of your life. This is exactly what Jesus Christ did  -- who, being no less than the perfect God-man, yet submitted Himself to the will and purpose of the Father even to the point of death.

When we endure suffering without seeking revenge we imitate the character of our Lord and bear witness to His grace. Jesus is our example as we suffer when doing good. Like Him, we must not retaliate in kind, but we must entrust ourselves to the care of our Father knowing that He will justly repay all those who have treated His children unjustly.

10/10/2010

A Matter of Submission

I Peter 2:13-17
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Because you've been called to be an heir of God, which in turn results in your responsibility to live your life as a witness to God's grace by abstaining from fleshly lusts and living a good life, you must therefore (as you live out your life before the pagans as a witness to Christ) submit yourself to God's order in every aspect of life.
    Remember this, though you must regard yourself as a citizen of heaven, you are still a citizen here on earth: you are subject to human government, and are thus to show your faithfulness to Christ by your respect for all authority.
    You must submit to lawful authority because: it is God-established; your submission will silence the ignorance of foolish men; you are free to obey and obligated to obey; and right relationships with all people honors God.

10/03/2010

When Alien Priests Behave Excellently, Pagans Glorify God

I Peter 2:11-12
Rev. Henry Fernandez
God  has called you to be part of His family. You are now His chosen people, His royal priesthood, His holy people. He is building you into His temple. The goal is that you might "proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." What you are proclaiming is the VIRTUE of God -- His character and deeds of grace and mercy. Because of your calling to life in Christ, you, by nature, are to be an evangelist with your life - you are an ambassador of the Kingdom.

Peter teaches you that by living a consistently obedient life you can win the battle that rages with you and your selfish desires and this obedient life will result in an undeniable witness to the grace and mercy of God that will cause unbelievers to turn to God for salvation.

09/26/2010

The Chosen Stone and the Living Stones

I Peter 2:4-10
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Have you ever suffered rejection because of your faith in Christ? Peter teaches that we can have a triumphant and obedient life because Christ Jesus has conquered and is now reigning. He who knew true rejection has now been accepted and because of His acceptance before the Father, we are accepted in Him.

09/19/2010

Unfeigned Love (Part II)

I Peter 1:22-2:3
Rev. Henry Fernandez
In God's providence we consider again this same portion of Scripture. In it see not only the requirement to love without hypocrisy as an expression of godly holiness, but what this love looks like and how it is worked out. The source of strength to grow up into our salvation (i.e., not to earn, rather to mature in salvation) is to crave God's pure Word, the Scriptures. Peter's point is obvious: you cannot be holy or love as God has commanded unless you know God's standard.

09/12/2010

Unfeigned Love

I Peter 1:22-2:3
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Because you are born again, redeemed, purified by obeying the truth of God, you have the responsibility to love one another sincerely and deeply from the heart. The only source of this love, the way to develop this love is through developing a greater desire for the Word of God.

09/05/2010

Holiness Unto the Lord: A Reverent Fear

I Peter 1:13-21
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Continuing on in the same section of Peter's letter, the Apostle's emphasis is to call believers to live unique, separate lives before God.

Believers live in 'holiness' as response to the living hope given them by God in Christ. This unique lifestyle is lives out in sobriety, holiness, and reverential fear.

In the section before us today, Peter teaches that a living hope calls believers to reverential fear. Reverential fear is expressed in a "parochial" manner. The motivation for living in reverential fear is the costliness of  your redemption.

08/29/2010

Holiness to the Lord

I Peter 1:13-21
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Peter has presented suffering Christians with encouraging, foundational truths which bolster the spirit and encourage the heart of the believer. He has presented, as it were, the indicatives of the faith: the unchanging truths that form the basis for the believer's hope (a living hope).

Now Peter calls suffering believers to action. On the basis of the living hope graciously and freely given to Christians, God now calls you to action: He places upon you imperatives for living out in daily life the living hope. Believers are called to live in holiness, reflecting God's character in every aspect of life. Peter summarizes your responsibility in three words: sobriety, holiness, and reverential fear.

08/22/2010

A Living Hope

I Peter 1:3-12
Rev. Henry Fernandez
A sure, living hope is based on the salvation graciously given by God and which stands even in the midst of suffering.

08/15/2010

To the Chosen: Election a Source of Comfort for the Suffering

I Peter 1:1-2
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The Westminster Confession of Faith cautions believers to be wise in understanding the doctrine of election (The doctrine of this high mystery of predestination is to be handled with special prudence and care, that men, attending the will of God revealed in His Word, and yielding obedience thereunto, may, from the certainty of their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election. So shall this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God; and of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation to all that sincerely obey the Gospel. WCF III.8)

This is exactly what Peter does as he introduces his letter to the scattered congregations of Asia Minor. The Apostle take the misunderstand and mysterious doctrine of election out of the theoretical and brings into the real life of struggling people: the triune God has chosen you for Himself, planned your trial and supports you in and through it for His glory and your good!

08/08/2010

Standing Firm in the Grace of God

I Peter 5:12
Rev. Henry Fernandez
We begin a new series of sermon based in the "catholic" epistle of First Peter.

Martin Luther said: "Until a person experiences suffering, he cannot know what it means to hope." The unifying theme of the book of 1st Peter is suffering. Suffering is a major theme of the Scriptures. Christ calls His church to suffering.

In suffering believers have a great responsibility: to live a consistent Christian life. Edmund Clowney wrote: "In this letter Peter shows you what the story of Jesus means for you as the Lord calls you to take up your cross and follow Him."

In this first sermon in the series, we look at an introduction to the epistle and consider Peter's purpose statement in 5:12. The Apostle tells you that his purpose is writing is to: comfort in suffering; confirm to you God's grace in Christ in times of suffering; and, thus, give us the command to stand firm in times of suffering.

08/01/2010

All Things Shall be Added unto You: God Blesses Seekers

Haggai 2:1-23
Rev. Henry Fernandez
When the hearts of God's people are turned to Him to seek Him as their greatest good, God blesses. This principle is worked out in Haggai's day as the remnant set out to rebuild the temple - the symbol of God's presence among them.

The Lord will be with His people even in their weak endeavors. The Lord will bless His people even though they failed in the past. The Lord will bring about His glorious victory in Christ for His people in a glorious future.

07/25/2010

Seek First the Kingdom of God: Getting Your Priorities Right

Haggai 1:1-5
Rev. Henry Fernandez
We begin a new series of sermons from the second shortest book in the Old Testament: Haggai. His name means "festive" and his message has a singular focus: rebuild the Temple.

In the context of the return from the Babylonian exile, Haggai calls the remnant to faithfulness, he calls them to "seek first the kingdom of God."

07/18/2010

Infallible Ministers?

Galatians 2:11-16
Rev. Henry Fernandez
J. C. Ryle wrote a sermon that was turned into a tract over 150 years ago, The Fallibility of Ministers". Its message is fresh - and needed - for our day.

The context for the message is an event that happened in the ancient city of Antioch - the place were believers in Jesus, the Way, were first called Christians. There was an apostolic uproar: Paul confronted Peter's sinful actions of separating himself from Gentile believers when the ultra-Jewish believers came to town. Sometimes, good ministers make enormous mistakes. It is more important to keep the truth than keep the peace. Under no circumstances may we compromise the truth of justification by faith apart from the works of the law.

07/11/2010

The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Missions

Malachi 1:1-14
Rev. Mel Pike

07/04/2010

The Day of Rejoicing: God Sings Over His People

Zephaniah 3:9-20
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Zephaniah comes to the end of his difficult prophecy with a joyous and positive message: God sings over His people! Just as when the "prodigal son" came to himself and return home in humble repentance and his father received him with joy, celebrating his return, so our Heavenly Father rejoices over His people when they repent, return, and are restored in God's love and mercy.

06/27/2010

A Severe Mercy: Nations Judged, Judah Warned

Zephaniah 2:4-3:8
Rev. Henry Fernandez
God shows His mercy to us by warning us of coming judgment. His invitation is genuine and gracious: turn to Me now. The example that God's judgment upon the surrounding nations is intended to turn our hearts to the Lord.

06/20/2010

Dies Irae: The Day of God's Wrath

Zephaniah 1:2-2:3
Rev. Henry Fernandez
Zephaniah's short prophetic book has a single focus: the coming wrath of God.

The prophecy begins by announcing and explaining the nature of God's wrath. The prophet does this by:

  1. Announcing the certainty of God's wrath;
  2. Delineating the reasons for God's wrath;
  3. Offering a place to hide from God's wrath.

06/13/2010

Hidden of the Lord

Zephaniah 1:1
Rev. Henry Fernandez
We begin a new series of sermons in one of the most neglected of the Minor Prophets: Zephaniah. This rich book summarizes the teaching of several previous prophetic books and has as its theme the Day of the Lord. Some find the book difficult to read and enjoy because of the relentless pursuit of the author to press home the strong point of judgment. Our goal will be to see what God has in store for us in this book: to heed the warning, examine ourselves and seek the Lord while He may be found.

06/06/2010

Coming in a Worthy Manner to the Table

Isaiah 66:1-4
Rev. Henry Fernandez
The Short Catechism Q. 97 asks "What is required for the worthy receiving of the Lord's Supper?"

The question may seem odd to us - doesn't the fact that I claim to be a believer enough? How can anyone be worthy of the Lord's Supper?

The prophet Isaiah has an answer for us: they who tremble at God's Word are they would will come worthily to the Table. Coming worthily to the Table is not based on anything you have earned, rather, worthy communion is based in the attitude God has worked in the heart.

05/30/2010 10:30:00

But Poured It Out to the LORD: How to Honor Loyalty

II Samuel 23:13-17;
Rev. Henry Fernandez;
At great peril to their own lives, three of David's Ha Gibborim (the mighty/great ones), got their king a drink of water. David's response teaches us how to honor the sacrifice, loyalty and devotion of those who serve us and turn our hearts to truly serving Christ (Psalm 110:3).

05/23/2010 10:30:00

That He May Be with You Forever

John 14:16-27;
Rev. Henry Fernandez;
On this Pentecost Sunday, we consider Jesus' teaching on the ministry of the Holy Spirit to believers. As Jesus, in the Upper Room, comforted His disciplines before His betrayal and arrest, He taught them regarding the Holy Spirit who would come upon them after Christ's death, resurrection, and departure into heaven. The Holy Spirit would minister to believers as Jesus ministered to them. The Holy Spirit is personal (He is another Helper), His presence would be Christ's presence among them (Jesus did not leave us orphans), and He would be of great profit to the Church (all the benefits of Christ's finished work would be mediated to us by the Holy Spirit).

05/16/2010 10:30:00

Faith in the Face of Fear

Habakkuk 3:3-19a;
Rev. Henry Fernandez;
Habakkuk ends his prophecy with a psalm of praise to God in times of fear. He learned that a faith that stands in times of fear is propositional, personal, and practical.

05/09/2010 10:30:00

How to Pray Effectively in Times of Difficult Providences

Habakkuk 3:1-2;
Rev. Henry Fernandez;
Habakkuk struggled with God's providential ordering of events. But when he understood better the nature of God and His good purposes - even using a difficult circumstance for His glory and the good of His people - Habakkuk turned to prayer. Habakkuk learned how to pray in times of difficult providences. He learned to submit to God's will in humble reliance upon His sovereign purposes. He learned to worship God for who He is and what He does. He learned petition the Lord for more than mere immediate needs, rather he learned to pray for renewal, instruction, and mercy in the midst of hard times.

05/02/2010 10:30:00

Two Ways to Live: Faithless Arrogance or Humble Faith

Habakkuk 2:2-20;
Rev. Henry Fernandez;
In light of God's sovereign ordering of all things, in the context of difficult circumstances and perplexing providences, how is a believer to live out his life? The contrast the Lord sets before us is that of blindly trudging along in faithless arrogance or of living in triumphant humble faith. Habakkuk receives God's gracious answer to watching in prayer, is called to faithfulness in the midst of trial, and is given the strong comfort of God's certain victory.

04/25/2010 13:00:00

Justified by Works Via the Covenant of Grace

Dr. Carl W. Bogue

PDF

04/25/2010 10:30:00

How Can I Know I Am Elect?

Ephesians 1:1-14; Dr. Carl Bogue;
Doctrine: Predestination has everything to do with Christ.
          I. Predestination is from Eternity ("before the foundation of the world").
                Analogy of a flower garden
          II. Predestination is of Grace and not Works.
                The flower is the effect, not the cause.
          III. Predestination is "in Christ."
                Chosen to be "blameless"
                How can a sinner be holy and blameless?

Application
         Yes, but . . . .
         Election, according to Westminster Confession of Faith, is a healing balm.
        Yet to many it is a cause of terror and uncertainty.
         Don't look in the wrong place; you are not saved by predestination, but by Christ.

04/25/2010 09:00:00

Edwards and the Covenant: An Historical Model for a Contemporary Debate

Dr. Carl Bogue
 
PDF

04/18/2010 10:30:00

When the Curse Is Worse than the Disease

Habakkuk 1:12-2:1; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Puritan Thomas Watson said: "Judge not Christ's love by provinces, but by promises." His advice is good and right. Habakkuk learns that when God's providence runs contrary to our expectations, we should not despair. Rather, as believers, we must go back to the foundations of what we know is true and unchanging: God's character and God's revealed purpose. These are the strong foundations for patient waiting in confident hope and trust.

04/11/2010 10:30:00

A Believer's Honest Complaint: 'How Long, O Lord?'

Habakkuk 1:1-11; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Injustice is rampant in this world. Some people argue against God's power and goodness in the light of tragedy, suffering, and injustice. A believer looks at the problems in this sinful, broken world — evil prospers, righteousness falters — and rightly complains to God: "How Long, O Lord?" The prophet Habakkuk asks God the hard questions and the Lord's answers are surprising! God's goal in ordering all things, in guiding and directing history, is to magnify His sovereignty and perfect providence. Trusting in His purposes, plan, and power results in true peace and confident, hopeful living.

04/04/2010 10:30:00

The Glory of the Resurrection

Matthew 28:1-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The resurrection of Jesus from the dead displays His glory in a number of ways: it shows Christ's power and judgment; it manifests Jesus' comfort; and it magnifies the Lord's mercy.

28/03/2010 10:30:00

The Triumphal Entry: A Glorious Declaration

John 12:12-19; Rev. Henry Fernandez; On this Palm Sunday, we consider again Jesus’ actions in the Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. In the Triumphal Entry Jesus made some glorious declarations: • He declared the kind of Messiah He is: the Prince of Peace; • He declared the sovereign purposes of God in ordering all things for our salvation; • He declared and exhibited His resolute purpose to be the Savior of those the Father had given to Him by completely obeying the Father’s will; by fulfilling prophecy; and by dying in our place, so that by His violent death He might purchase our peace.

21/03/2010 10:30:00

Why the Forgiven Forgive

Philemon 17-25; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul closes his short letter to Philemon. The Apostle is asking Philemon to do a very difficult thing: to forgive someone who has hurt him deeply. As he brings his letter to an end, he presents us with the motivations for forgiving one another.

14/03/2010 10:30:00

What Forgiveness Does

Philemon 8-20; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The apostle Paul teaches us what forgiveness does. Forgiveness welcomes the repentant. Forgiveness restores the repentant. Forgiveness accepts restitution, but graciously rescinds the debt.

03/07/2010 10:30:00

A Portrait of a Forgiving Believer

Philemon 1-7; Rev. Henry Fernandez; We begin a new series of sermons from the short letter of Paul to Philemon. The theme of the book is a call to biblical, Christ-centered forgiveness. The verses before us today focus on the characteristics of a believer who fogives. A forgiven man, forgives.

28/02/2010 10:30:00

For Such A Time as This: The Providence of God

Esther 4:14; Rev. Henry Fernandez; On this day of "Purim" (the Jewish holiday celebrating the sovereign deliverance of the Hebrew nation by Queen Esther) we consider the wonder of the doctrine of providence and its practical implications.

21/02/2010 10:30:00

Benedictio: A Good Word from God

II Corinthians 13:14; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The 'benediction" — Paul closes his letter to the errant church at Corinth with God's blessing, a word from God for His people. What is a benediction and why do we use it in our worship? Paul's practice of placing God's blessing upon His covenant people connects Christ's Church with the ancient covenantal practice (Numbers 6:22-27). The act unites us with Jesus' last words to His people before His ascension (Luke 24:50-51). The benediction seals to believers' hearts the truth that we are not under his wrath, but the objects of his love and mercy. The benediction is God's holy announcement that we are sealed with His name and our whole life is covered by His grace. In the benediction, as Calvin has written, God gives us Himself!

14/02/2010 10:30:00

The God of Love and Peace will be with You

II Corinthians 13:11-13 Rev. Henry Fernandez; "FINALLY!," writes the Apostle Paul, he has come to an end of his letter! As he closes the letter he calls the church to unity. He admonishes the church to be at peace within itself and offers an unwavering promise that compels believers to unity. He calls the church to unity within itself and with the rest of the body of believers throughout the world. Paul ends a hard letter with great encouragement and love.

07/02/2010 10:30:00

Warning, Examination, and Prayer

II Corinthians 13:1-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; As Paul brings the argument for this apostleship to a conclusion, he shows grace to the church in three ways: (1) by warning the church of imminent, pervasive, God-empowered discipline; (2) by calling the church to self-examination, thus seeking grace; (3) by fervent prayer in the expectation of grace.

31/01/2010 10:30:00

Gladly Spent and Expended

II Corinthians 12:11-21; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul is coming to the end of his letter. He has been making a case for his apostleship by contrasting his character, actions, and ministry with that of the false teachers. He has used as a polemic boasting, which he finds distasteful but necessary. As he closes his argument he points to the reason for his boasting: the sad fact that the church he founded, at great personal cost and effort, has not defended him. He is a disappointed man. But his disappointment and personal offense do not detract nor dissuade him from loving the church of Jesus Christ with a self-giving, self-sacrificing love. He tells the church that he does not want anything from them, he is not after their money, he only wants them — their affection, loyalty, and partnership in serving Christ together. As a matter of fact, Paul is willing (and he has already shown) that he is willing to be spent and to expend himself for Christ's Church, even when there is no commendation, no appreciation, and no apparent maturing sanctification in the hearts and lives of the church at large. Paul presents us with a model for loving the church as Christ loved her and of faithfulness when faithlessness is not the order of the day. Paul's words are hard to hear. Paul's future actions too may be hard to take. But all is meant to bring exalt Christ's glory and promote their good.

24/01/2010 10:30:00

Sufficient Grace: Power Perfected in Weakness (Part II)

II Corinthians 12:1-10 (specifically vv 8-10); Rev. Henry Fernandez;A continuation from the previous week's sermon. The glorious vision given to Paul was a great encouragement. To keep him from becoming prideful, he was given, by God, a thorn in the flesh. Because of the extreme and consistent nature of the thorn, the Apostle prayed asking that it be take away from him. The amazing answer was "My grace is sufficient for you and My power is perfected in your weakness." Paul teaches us how grace is enough in all situations. He shows us how weakness, suffered for Christ's sake, is actually power in God.

17/01/2010 10:30:00

Sufficient Grace: Power Perfected in Weakness

II Corinthians 12:1-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez;Paul continues his boasting polemic against the false teachers in Corinthian. He understands that boastings if foolish and unprofitable, but must engage in it for the benefit of the Corinthians -- to show them how foolish and false the teachers really are. He comes to visions and revelations and presents sketchy details of a spiritual experience, a vision, that was given to him fourteen years previous. What Paul heard and saw he is not allowed to speak, but it was glorious. So glorious was it that God, in order to humble him, gave him a thorn in the flesh -- Satan's constant messenger to Paul. The thorn in the flesh was so debilitating and hard to bear that Paul plead with God three times for relief. God in His sovereign mercy and grace gave Paul something better and greater than relief, He gave the weary apostle a principle by which to live: God's grace is sufficient in all situations and circumstances: it is enough to meet every need. With this truth firmly impressed upon his heart and mind, Paul was able to thrive in Christ, for as he encountered weakness and failure he found that he was truly strong in Christ. God's grace, strength, and power come to full expression in the weaknesses of His servants. He is exalted in our weakness for our inadequacy magnifies His sufficiency. The question this well-known passages asks of every believer is this: Is God's grace truly sufficient for you or are you seeking power, strength and sufficiency from another source?

01/10/2010 10:30:00

Forbid It Lord, that I Should Boast

II Corinthians 11:16-33; Rev. Henry Fernandez;Paul continues in his polemic against the false teachers, addressing the problem with a tone of "foolishness". He is showing the church how ridiculous it is to boast in anything but Christ. His goal is to turn the church's heart and mind away from falsehood to Christ and His truth. The Apostle speaks with bitting sarcasm to awaken the church to her folly. There are many practical implications this ancient interchange has to teach contemporary believers.

01/03/2010 10:30:00

Honest Talk about Heretical Teachers

II Corinthians 11:1-15; Rev. Henry Fernandez;As we resume our study of the second letter to the Corinthians, we come to a place in the letter where the Apostle Paul is compelled, for the eternal spiritual welfare of the church, to something that is distasteful to him: boast! Paul has been dealing with the personal attacks of the false teachers who have infiltrated the church and have easily convinced the congregation of their aberant theology and practice. Paul continues to address, in strong, honest, and clear language, who these false teachers really are what they represent. The passage is a clear warning to believers to watch out for their own souls under the good and faithful guidance of godly, proven leaders: wavering from the truth is, regretably, too easy!

27/12/2009 10:30:00

Living Confidently in God's Promises

II Timothy 4:9-22; Rev. Henry Fernandez;From a Roman dungeon awaiting execution — martyrdom for preaching the gospel of Christ — the Apostle Paul wrote words by which we can learn to live confidently in God's promises come to beautiful and abundant fruition in Christ. Paul wrote to his fellow-worker and "son" in the Lord, Timothy, these glorious words: "The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen" As we begin a new year, we can learn to live confidently in God's promises.

20/12/2009 10:30:00

He Was Born of the Virgin Mary

Luke 1:26-38; Rev. Henry Fernandez;The 20th century liberal theologian and popular minister, Harry Emerson Fosdick, said, "I certainly don't believe in the virgin birth and I hope you don't either." The virgin birth is regularly attacked by those who deny Jesus' deity and uniqueness. But this Biblical truth has great implications; if there is no virgin birth, there is no salvation! Either Jesus was born of a virgin or He is not God. If He is not God and man in one person we are still in our sins and are to be pitted for believing such foolish things.

13/12/2009 10:30:00

The Only-Begotten and the Adopted Children

John 1:14-18; Rev. Henry Fernandez;The familiar words of John's Gospel are challenging to our thought patterns because they seem to be couched in ancient Greek philosophy. But the point this Hebrew man makes is very clear and extremely encouraging. The Rev. Peter Mitchell, of the Iden Green Congregational Church captures the point simply: "It is uniquely special to be the only begotten Son, and hugely privileged to be the adopted sons of God." The Only-Begotten Son, Jesus, is unique and by His nature and work gives people from every part of the world the wonderful privilege of being called "sons of God" (John 1:12) by faith in Christ and His finished work.

12/06/2009 10:30:00

A Savior, Christ the Lord

Luke 2:8-14; Rev. Henry Fernandez;We are pointed in our study of this passage to a combination of words found only here in the entire New Testaments: "a Savior, who is Christ the Lord". "The major offices of Jesus are confessed in one sentence: he is Savior, Lord and Christ --that is, deliverer, master and anointed king." (Darrell Bock) The title "Christ" teaches believers the amazing nature of Jesus as Savior. He is the perfect Prophet, Priest, and King. He is anointed (or ordained and set apart) for these tasks so as to bring about a great salvation. The wonder of it all is that He graciously shares and bestows upon believers each of these offices under Him for His glory and our good.

29/11/2009 10:30:00

You Shall Call His Name Jesus

Matthew 1:18-25; Rev. Henry Fernandez;What's in a name? Jesus' name was given to Him by God the Father. He is THE Savior. His name points us to consider two great, life-changing truths: Jesus saves -- nothing else will do. Jesus saves -- nothing more is needed. This is what the incarnation is all about.

22/11/2009 10:30:00

God's Love -- Steadfast and Enduring

Psalm 136:1-26; Rev. Henry Fernandez;Giving thanks to God is the great theme of this psalm. The reason why a believer must thank and praise God is the Lord's steadfast, everlasting love for His covenant people. Therefore, believers must thank Him for He alone is God; He is your Creator; He is your Redeemer; He is your Sustainer; He is your Victory; He is worthy of all praise.

15/11/2009 10:30:00

Persecution, Scattering, and Kingdom Advance

Acts 8:1-13; Rev. Henry Fernandez;The martyrdom of Stephen unleashed the first great persecution of the Christian church. Believers had to flee Jerusalem because of the ferocity of the attacks . But God's purposes are not thwarted by by man's fury — even the wrath of man will praise Him! As the Church scattered, the gospel was preached and the kingdom of Christ was advanced among new people in new places. This passage presents again the calling Christians have to expand the Kingdom in all settings. Even as believers are "scattered" they evangelize. God's power to save is manifested and people to come faith in Christ.

11/08/2009 10:30:00

When Through Fiery Trials

Isaiah 43:1-7; Rev. Henry Fernandez;

11/01/2009 10:30:00

Boasting Only in Christ

II Corinthians 10:7-18; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul's detractors and enemies in Corinth had become boastful and dismissive of the Apostle's authority, challenging his position and questioning his right to be an apostle. They measured Paul by a worldly standard and he fell short. He was not flashy, good looking or eloquent. Paul answers with a defense of his ministry; a ministry that pioneered the church at Corinth. He challenges the church to embrace his ministry, a ministry that boasts solely in the Lord Jesus Christ. In the context of this interchange, believers of all times are taught what real boasting is all about.

25/10/2009 10:30:00

Spiritual Warfare (Part 2)

II Corinthians 10:1-6; Rev. Henry Fernandez

18/10/2009 10:30:00

How to Argue With God

Psalm 143; Ruling Elder David Finnegan

10/11/2009 10:30:00

Spiritual Warfare

II Corinthians 10:1-6 Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul returns to a major theme and purpose of his second letter the Corinthians: answering the false claims of the false teachers who had wormed their way into the church. As these detractors made their accusations against Paul, the authority and veracity of what the Apostle taught was being undermined and souls were in danger. Paul does not respond to the accusations because he is personally insulted; he responds because the false claims directly affect the truth of the message of Christ. As Paul responds to the specific attacks of the false teachers, Christians in all times and places learn the basics of spiritual warfare -- from the specific we learn the universal principles applicable in every place and in every time.

10/04/2009 10:30:00

How to Give...Cheerfully

II Corinthians 9:1-15; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Sometimes we need to be reminded of the same things again and again. The Apostle Paul continues his teaching regarding generous giving. He writes concerning the acceptable way in which this act of grace and worship is to be performed. Paul also gives some new arguments and encouragements for being diligent in the giving --cheerfully because God loves a cheerful giver.

27/09/2009 10:30:00

Money Matters

II Corninthians 8:10-24; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul writes a fund-raising letter to the Corinthians urging them to fulfill their commitments. He presents believers of all times and places with three principles regarding money matters in the church: (1) believers must be mindful of keeping commitments to give; (2) there must be mutuality among believers in giving; (3) believers' gifts must be managed honorably.

20/09/2009 10:30:00

The Grace of Liberality

II Corninthians 8:1-9; Rev. Henry Fernandez; God's grace compels grateful believers to liberality in giving. Grace engenders extreme generosity, even in affliction and poverty. Grace calls believers to excel in giving -- out of the abundance God has given, we give. Grace is the source of the ultimate expression of self-giving: Christ's incarnation and humiliation.

13/09/2009 10:30:00

What Has Your Sorrow Produced?

II Corninthians 7:8-16; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Sorrow is inevitable — it's part of life. Sometimes sorrow comes because sin is exposed in our lives. When sin is pointed out we can have one of two responses: godly sorrow or worldly sorrow. These two responses produce radically different results. Paul shows us the joyful results of godly sorrow in a a believer's life

09/06/2009 10:30:00

Work, For the Night is Coming

John 9:1-4; Rev. Henry Fernandez; In the context of the healing of a blind man, Jesus teaches us a very valuable lesson: You have a great responsibility to do the works of God and you have a short time in which to do them, therefore, do what you clearly know you are to do and leave the speculative stuff alone. Charles Spurgeon, in a sermon preached on this passage in 1867, said, "We gather, then, that the Savior has a greater respect for work than He has for speculation!"

30/08/2009 10:30:00

Lavish Love

I John 3:1; Elder Charles Bell

23/08/2009 10:30:00

The Spirit of the Age

Romans 8:11;Elder David Forslund

16/08/2009 10:30:00

Consider Him

Hebrews 12:1-4; Rev. Russ Scharf

08/09/2009 10:30:00

Bedoer

Matthew 7:21-27; Rev. Russ Scharf

08/02/2009 10:30:00

Conflicts Without, Fears Within; But God ,,,

II Corinthians 7:5-7; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Spiritual battles and internal worries can drive even the strongest believer to the point of despair. But our God is the God of all Comfort. The Lord expresses His comfort to us by means of the body of Christ, the Church.

26/07/2009 10:30:00

Defusing A Relationship Bomb

II Corinthians 7:2-4; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Relationships — in families and in the church — can become volitile. A wrong word or action can cause great damage. Paul, without restoring to manipulation or guilt, addresses the volitile situation that developed in the Corinthian church and gives the church at large and throughout the ages a godly pattern for dealing with difficult relationships.

19/07/2009 10:30:00

God's Guidance

Psalm 25:1-22; Elder Kendall Hollis

07/12/2009 10:30:00

Unequally Yoked - What Does That Mean?

II Corinthians 6:14-7:1; Rev. Henry Fernandez;Biblical separation — that's not a concept our modern evangelical church society has as a defining characteristic. Yet "separation" is a biblical truth that we are called to live out. But what does it mean and how does a believer put into practice. Sam Storms summarizes Paul's teaching this way: "The principle is this: enter into no relationship or bond or partnership that will compromise your Christian integrity or weaken your will for holiness or cast a shadow on your reputation."

07/05/2009 10:30:00

Hearts Open Wide to One Another in Christ

II Corinthians 6:11-13; Rev. Henry Fernandez;Paul has been writing about reconciliation and now he calls upon the church to reconcile to him in reciprocal love.

28/06/2009 10:30:00

Living a Life that Counts for God

II Corinthians 6:1-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez;Living a life that counts for God means that you must receive God's grace effectively (i.e., not in vain. Living a life that counts for God has as its goal not giving offense so that the ministry of reconciliation may not be discredited. Living a life that counts for God manifests itself in living faithfully in all circumstances and settings.

21/06/2009 10:30:00

The Ministry of Reconciliation

II Corinthians 5:18-21; Rev. Henry Fernandez;The Christian message, the Gospel of God, is astounding! The holy, glorious, triune God, the creator of all things, has been offended by human sin and rebellion against His good and gracious order and law. Now God's perfect, just and holy wrath must and does fall upon rebellious and sinful mankind. But the God of all mercy, of pure grace and kindness, has taken the initiative to reconcile men to Himself: the offended party has taken the initiative to bring us back to Himself! He reconciles us to Himself through the life, obedience and sacrifice of His own Son, Jesus Christ, who became sin for those He came to save that they might receive His righteousness and be made right with God. This is the message of reconciliation; it is the ministry of reconciliation. This message is the commitment Christians must have personally — with regard to their own standing with God — and practically — as to their desire for the souls of men everywhere. The Puritan Thomas Hooker summarizes the essence of the passage in these words: "Let it be counted folly, or fury, or frenzy, or whatever else; it is our wisdom and our comfort. We care for no knowledge in the world but this, that man hath sinned, and that God hath suffered; that God has made Himself the Son of Man, and that men are made the righteousness of God."

14/06/2009 10:30:00

New Creations in Christ

II Corinthians 5:16-17; Rev. Henry Fernandez; In II Corinthians 5:14-15 we learned that Christ's death brought about a specific result: the death of His people to this world (i.e., sin, death, Satan) so that they might live to Christ. Now in v. 17 we are taught that the powerful effect of Christ's death for those "in Christ" is that believers are now "new creations", the old has past, look!, the new has come. These are great and encouraging truths, but the Apostle presents us with another, amazing and powerful truth — a practical implication and application: in Christ all of a believer's relationships have changed. The effect is that we no longer consider or recognize no one according to the flesh! Worldly standards — racism, "sexism", and another "ism" this world can produce — are put aside and all relationships are redeemed, restored, and remade in Christ.

06/07/2009 10:30:00

We Persuade Men

II Corinthians 5:11-21; Rev. Henry Fernandez; When Jesus cleansed the Temple in Jerusalem (John 2:17), the disciples remembered the words of the Psalmist (69:9), "Zeal for Your house has consumed me." The same attitude took hold of Paul. Zeal for God's honor, men's souls, and holy living compelled the Apostle to live in a manner that seemed to be one of reckless abandon regarding his own person for the glory of God and the good of people everywhere. His view of the glory of God changed how he saw himself and other human beings. He was compelled to tell everyone the Gospel God in Christ. Paul knew he would stand before the judgment seat of Christ and that knowledge gave him a zeal to be faithful to his calling. Paul teaches you the right motivation for persuading men of the need they have for the living God.

31/05/2009 10:30:00

An Appointment You will Keep

II Corinthians 5:6-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The author of Hebrews tells us "it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). These are sobering words. As Paul teaches us about our security in Christ and our certain future hope, he concludes by giving us a motivation for living righteously before God: we will stand before Christ's judgment seat. How does the believer, for whom there in now no condemnation in Christ, understand the last judgment? Paul gives us hope and comfort to meet that day with confidence in Jesus.

24/05/2009 10:30:00

Longing to be Clothed with Our Heavenly Dwelling

II Corinthians 5:1-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The Apostle Paul was a tent maker by trade. He uses the metaphor of a tent to picture our bodies -- frail and susceptible to decay and death. The believer's hope is that this world is not all there is: an eternal, perfect state, in a glorified body, in the presence of the Lord, is the believer's trust and future, certain hope. Therefore, we live to the glory of God awaiting all our works -- not as the basis for salvation but for reward -- to be judged and inspected as to their worth before God.

17/05/2009 10:30:00

The Eternal Weight of Glory

II Corinthians 4:13-18; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul speaks with boldness the glorious gospel of Christ. His own personal insufficiency and suffering served to manifest more clearly the power of God, who decided to use such a feeble and fallible tool as Paul (or like you) as the means to proclaim Christ's gospel. This seemingly disquieting truth — that God uses broken, insignificant, and common means to manifest His truth — is actually the Christian's encouragement: we are not discouraged, nor do we become faint-hearted because the weaker we are the more God's glory and power are manifested.

05/10/2009 10:30:00

Treasures in Jars of Clay

II Corinthians 4:7-18; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul speaks with boldness the glorious gospel of Christ. His own personal insufficiency and suffering served to manifest more clearly the power of God, who decided to use such a feeble and fallible tool as Paul (or like you) as the means to proclaim Christ's gospel. This seemingly disquieting truth — that God uses broken, insignificant, and common means to manifest His truth — is actually the Christian's encouragement: we are not discouraged, nor do we become faint-hearted because the weaker we are the more God's glory and power are manifested.

05/03/2009 10:30:00

Your Word Have I Treasured in My Heart

Psalm 119:9-17; Elder David Finnegan

26/04/2009 10:30:00

We Do Not Lose Heart

II Corinthians 4:1-6;Rev. Henry Fernandez; Gospel confidence engenders faithfulness. Gospel proclamation does not abuse the message or the hearers. The need for the Gospel is seen in it being veiled from those who are perishing; they are under the dominion of the evil one who blinds eyes from seeing their need. The solution for this condition is the new birth. God has deemed fit to bring about the new birth through the agency of the proclamation of the gospel. The point of the passage is a call to proclaim Christ and Him crucified everywhere without hesitation.

19/04/2009 10:30:00

With Unveiled Face

II Corinthians 3:12-18;Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul has already spoken of the "planned obsolescence" of the old covenant. He illustrated it by pointing to the fading brilliance that shone from Moses' face after having been in God's presence. Now the Apostle takes the same historical event (Moses veiled his face to hide the brilliance because the people could not look upon him) to show the obscure nature of revelation in the old covenant and the effect of that obscurity: spiritual blindness. Paul contrasts the obscurity of the old covenant with the clarity, boldness, liberty and glory revealed in the new covenant. Paul concludes on a very positive note: God's good gifts in the new covenant come by "turning to the Lord."

04/12/2009 10:30:00

Reality Shock

Mark 16:1-9;Rev. Henry Fernandez; On this Easter morning we are transported back to the first Easter to experience the bewilderment, trembling fear, and fright of the good women who came to the garden tomb without faith and fled in terror! This passage presents the reality of the Resurrection of Jesus — God has really worked in time and space. Jesus is who He says He is. All that promised is true. He is not a tame lion! What has that to do with you?

04/05/2009 10:30:00

Behold Your King!

Luke 19:28-48;Rev. Henry Fernandez; On this Palm Sunday, we celebrate again with joy the truth that Christ is the Conquering King. He is portrayed for us in Luke's account of the Triumphal Entry as the King of Peace, the King of Compassion, and the King of Glory.

29/03/2009 10:30:00

A More Glorious Covenant

II Corinthians 3:1-11;Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul is made a minister of a better, more glorious covenant. What was promised in principle in the older expression of the covenant is now given in the glories of Christ. Thus, we have a great message to proclaim.

22/03/2009 10:30:00

The Triumph of the Gospel

II Corinthians 2:12-17;Rev. Henry Fernandez; As the messengers of the good news are crushed, the aroma of Christ is defused throughout the earth. To some the aroma is like the stench of death and to others it is the fragrance of life. As the message of Christ is disseminated, the gospel triumphs.

03/08/2009 10:30:00

Amen: Jesus is our Integrity

II Corinthians 1:12-2:4;Rev. Henry Fernandez; As a Christian, what is the basis of your integrity? Paul was accused of being a vacillating man -- saying one thing and doing another. Paul defends his character and integrity, and thus the message he brings. The Apostle shows us the need for the integrity and the basis of it. Your integrity must mimic God's character. God's integrity is displayed to us and gives us great assurance: He has fulfilled all His promises to us in Jesus Christ. He is our AMEN.

03/01/2009 10:30:00

Comforted to Comfort

II Corinthians 1:1-11;Rev. Henry Fernandez; We begin a new series of expository sermons in Apostle Paul's Second Epistle to the Corinthian Church. The struggles of the church continue. While some of the directives the Apostle gave to the church in his previous letter were followed, enormous problems continued rise. False teachers have now infiltrated the church and are attempting to undermine the orthodox teaching Paul has passed on to them. Paul writes to correct error, encourage generosity, and defend his apostleship. As he begins his letter he teaches, from the foundation of knowing that God is the central focus and ultimate desire of every believer, about the purpose of suffering and loss. Believers suffer and are comforted by God so that in turn they may comfort those around them who suffer: we are comforted that we may comfort.

22/02/2009 10:30:00

In That Day

Zechariah 14:1-21; Rev. Henry Fernandez; As we come to Zechariah's last word or sermon, we get a broad picture of God's dealings with His people throughout the gospel age: their problems and ultimate blessings. The setting is the attack of the evil one upon Christ's Church throughout the ages and her ultimate victory.

15/02/2009 10:30:00

Only Two Destinies

Luke 16:19-31;Ruling Elder Charles R. Bell will bring a biblical exhortation to the congregation in the absence of the pastor. Based upon the good exegetical and expository work of the 19th century British evangelical bishop, J. C. Ryle, Mr. Bell will address this parable. The parable draws attention to the meaninglessness of our worldly status and riches when it comes to our ultimate destiny. The parable also seems to point to the urgency of witnessing to the lost whose destiny is shown to be such awful, eternal torment without hope -- a destiny too late for God's mercy and grace. Finally, it suggests the urgency of making profession of faith and not delaying.

02/08/2009 10:30:00

Looking Upon Him Who was Pierced

Zechariah 12:1-13:9; Rev. Henry Fernandez; In the providence of God, we are allowed to look again at this passage. As we return to the exposition of Zechariah's prophecy, we are reminded that Biblical prophecy, in the main, is telescopic not microscopic: not all the exacting details are revealed by the prophet, rather the broad sweep of God's purpose is laid before the reader. So, in this classic passage, referred to by the Gospel writers, we see that only by understanding the life and work of Christ can we grasp the wonderful promises of God, promises of victory and protection.

25/01/2009 10:30:00

Why God Allows People to Accumulate Wealth

Luke 12:13-21; Rev. Henry Fernandez; This is a stewardship sermon. The Church of Christ cannot meet the budget without God's people's tithes and offerings. It is the responsibility of every believer to give. God will not truly bless you until you give. These are things you have heard all your Christian life. But there is something deeper to learn, something life-changing. It is this: God has allowed you to accumulate wealth so you can give it away — and to give simply, with an open heart, generously to those in need. That simple truth will embitter you or change you.

18/01/2009 10:30:00

Rescue the Perishing

Proverbs 24:11,12; Rev. Henry Fernandez; 50 million and counting — need we say more? Abortion is a plague upon our nation. God calls believers to action: rescue the perishing. You cannot say you did not know. Your motivations are judged by God. There is a recompense for your action — or lack of action. Rescue the perishing!

01/11/2009 10:30:00

A Good Hope

II Thessalonians 2:13-17 ; Rev. Henry Fernandez; In the midst of trying times we need hope. Gleaning from the good work and ministry of Bishop J.C. Ryle, we look at the definition of a good hope.

01/04/2009 10:30:00

When the Light Comes: Three Pictures of Gospel Fullness

Isaiah 35:1-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; On Epiphany Sunday the western Church has traditionally celebrated the glorious truth of the manifestation of Christ as the Son of God (epiphany comes from the Greek word that means to "manifest") in the coming of the wise men. This event fulfills the promise of God to Abraham, one repeated throughout the prophets, that the nations (i.e., non-Jews) are included in God's plan and purposes. In Isaiah 35 three pictures are drawn in poetic language to show the effect of the coming of the Gospel of Christ. With the manifestation of the Christ the Lord, the Gospel is proclaimed and everything changes: the light has come!

28/12/2008 10:30:00

Build, Live, Plant, Eat: A Plan for the New Year and for Life

Jeremiah 29:1-14; Rev. Henry Fernandez; With all the changes and challenges that are before us as families, a nation, and a church, how do we face these matters in a godly fashion. The letter Jeremiah wrote to an exiled people is applicable to our situation. God calls us to long-term faithfulness in the midst of difficult and trying times. The Lord encourages His people with the comforting words of this passage: He knows the plans that He has for us, plans for peace/welfare and not calamity to give us a future and a hope.

21/12/2008 10:30:00

The Final Word

Hebrews 1:1-4; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Jesus Christ is God's final word to mankind. Jesus Christ is God's final word to you, and the effect is this: when you are ignorant of which way to go, what to do, what to say, what to believe, Jesus is your wisdom and the revelation of the truth. He helps the ignorant; when you are guilty and broken by sin and your circumstances, Jesus is your priest. His work is finished and your sin is taken care of and your guilt is destroyed. There is now therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. when you are weak and helpless, faltering and attacked, Jesus is the conquering King. He never fails to rescue His people. He rules.

14/12/2008 10:30:00

Dominus Regit Me: True King

Luke 2:8-20; Rev. Henry Fernandez;This sermon summarizes and concludes the series, "Dominus Regit Me", with an analysis of the ultimate and true King, Jesus Christ.

12/07/2008 10:30:00

Dominus Regit Me: Wrong King

I Samuel 15:1-35; Rev. Henry Fernandez;Continuing on in the advent series, this week we consider the disobedience of Israel's first king, Saul. This individual exemplifies the title of the sermon: wrong king. As we consider the wrong king we see him to be disobedient, weak, self-centered, and unrepentant. Our goal is analyzing Saul's life is to ask ourselves what really rules our lives. When the contrast between the wrong king and the True King, Jesus Christ, is placed before us, we are comforted and encouraged in Christ's obedience that brought about our redemption and see Jesus as the only one worthy of our allegiance.

30/11/2008 10:30:00

Dominus Regit Me: No King

Judges 2:1-5 & 21:25; Rev. Henry Fernandez;With this sermon we begin a short "advent" oriented series. The series is titled "Dominus Regit Me" (Lord rule me). The theme follows on from the teaching of Zechariah regarding the coming Messiah. Three historical situations will be considered: no king, wrong king, true king. This week we consider the situation in ancient Israel as the people of God are given the land of promise and the ensuing failures and problems that came upon them when there was no godly ruler in the land. "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes," Judges 21:25. Anarchy destroys people and society. Christ's rule brings peace, prosperity and order.

23/11/2008 10:30:00

When the Shepherd is Rejected

Zechariah 11:1-17: Rev. Henry Fernandez; Leadership can make or break a people. Throughout the history of Israel good and bad leaders == shepherds -- had given God's people direction along various paths. This sermon is a continuation of the thoughts and challenges presented in Chapter 10, but from the negative perspective. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Zechariah sees a time in the future when bad leaders would arise among the people. How would their hurtful leadership affect the promises made to the people? Ultimately, Zechariah teaches us that that worthless shepherds will be done away with and the Good Shepherd will come. He is stable, reliable, able to deliver, and from Him comes good leadership. He is, of course, Jesus, the Good Shepherd. All of God's good promises of safety and prosperity come to fruition in Christ.

16/11/2008 10:30:00

The Good Shepherd

Zechariah 10:1-12: Rev. Henry Fernandez; Leadership can make or break a people. Throughout the history of Israel good and bad leaders == shepherds -- had given God's people direction along various paths. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Zechariah sees a time in the future when bad leaders would arise among the people. How would their hurtful leadership affect the promises made to the people? Ultimately, Zechariah teaches us that that worthless shepherds will be done away with and the Good Shepherd will come. He is stable, reliable, able to deliver, and from Him comes good leadership. He is, of course, Jesus, the Good Shepherd. All of God's good promises of safety and prosperity come to fruition in Christ.

11/09/2008 10:30:00

The Victorious King

Zechariah 9:9-17; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Palm Sunday in November? Zechariah 9:9 is probably the best known passage in all the book. It is quoted by Matthew and John as they record the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem the Sunday of His Passion Week. The passage has a present and future application. The Lord God Almighty has promised His covenant people protection from their enemies. He overthrows those who hate Him and His people. The Lord will do this through His King who is to come. Here is a great prophecy of the Messiah. Jesus, the Messiah or Christ, is here described (predicted) in His glory and humility. The Victorious King conquers not by violence to others but by the shedding of His own blood. In this way He set the imprisoned free. He protect and causes to prosper all those under His glorious and good rule.

11/02/2008 10:30:00

The Coming of the Warrior God

Zechariah 9:1-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The book of Zechariah is divided into two major sections: chapters 1-8, the encouraging visions emphasizing promises; chapters 9-14, the challenging oracles or burdens that call God's people to faithfulness in light of the promises. We come to the first portion of the second section, 9:1-8, and find a politically incorrect, but spiritually encouraging truth: God exercises his wrath for the benefit of His Covenant people. He fights, as it were for them as the Divine Warrior. This section of Scripture teaches that God brings condemnation and destruction upon His enemies (and thus the enemies of His people) and protects His people. The accomplishment of this truth has multiple levels of application historically and prophetically and causes believers in all times and places to rest securely in the purposes of God.

26/10/2008 10:30:00

Living in the Feast

Zechariah 8:14-24; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Last week's sermon asked the question: "How would your life be different if you were actually convinced that God had every intention, desire and determination to bless you rather than punish you?" This week, as a follow-up and continuation of the same theme, the passage shows believers what it means to live in the feast -- to live in the light of God's purposeful, continual blessing. In other words, what are the effects of being convinced that God's purpose is good in our lives? The answer Zechariah proclaims is summed up in two words: holiness and evangelism.

19/10/2008 10:30:00

From Fasting to Feasting

Zechariah 8:1-23; Rev. Henry Fernandez; God uses warnings and encouragements to call His people to live in righteousness before Him. In this chapter the positive side of God's call to live holy lives before Him is emphasized. The Lord has determined to do good to His people. The Lord strongly proclaims ten declarations of His goodness to His own. Nothing will deter Him from His purpose. Therefore, God's covenant community can rejoice. We can leave off fasting and turn to celebrate His goodness and grace: feast in the goodness of the Lord.

10/12/2008 10:30:00

Tradition and Real Religion

Zechariah 7:1-14; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Why do we do what we do in worship? Is it for myself for the glory of God? We like to believe that we're honoring God, but are we? A group of returned exiles ask the question about fasting and its necessity in light of the rebuilding of the Temple. The answer they got was more than they bargained for! Zechariah 7 challenges believers in every age to examine carefully and deeply the state of your faith -- the reason behind your religion.

10/05/2008 10:30:00

Crown Him!

Galatians 6:6-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The Old Testament age was a time when God taught His people by means of symbols and figures. The people of God were to look in faith to the fulfillment and fullness of these symbols in the future, they were not to be satisfied with the form but were to look to the future substance. They looked to the coming of Messiah. The oracle of 6:9-15 --not a vision -- is the summary of the previous eight visions. This passage exemplifies God's use of the teaching tool of symbols. As the high priest is symbolically crowned with the multi-tiered crown, something that had never occurred before (something forbidden by God in the past), the truth of the fullness of Messiah's person and work is shown forth. In Him both offices harmoniously come together so that the One who is our sacrifice for sin is also the king and ruler of our lives.

28/09/2008 10:30:00

On Not Growing Weary in Doing Good to All

Galatians 6:6-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Doing what is good (i.e., the external expression of the internal work of the Holy Spirit in your life) is a comprehensive and life-long commitment to seek the spiritual and physical benefit of others. We must not, then, fall prey to the temptation to retire from service in Christ's kingdom; don't give up.

21/09/2008 10:30:00

North, South, East, West -- The Sovereign God Rules

Zechariah 6:1-8; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Zechariah's eighth vision returns to the theme the first vision presented: the Lord rules over the whole earth and works out His providential purpose, controlling all things, for the honor of His name and the good of His people.

14/09/2008 10:30:00

Wickedness Carried Away or Carried Away by Wickedness

Zechariah 5:5-11; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The challenge of living out one's faith in every aspect of life, especially economically, is great. The returned covenant community needed to make a choice about how they will live their lives in relationship to God and man. The question the Zechariah's seventh vision presents is this: will wickedness be carried away or will wickedness carry you away?

08/07/2008 10:30:00

The Flying Scroll

Zechariah 5:1-4; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Covenant blessings may not be enjoyed without covenant obedience

31/08/2008 10:30:00

Not by Might, Not by Power, but by My Spirit says the Lord

Zechariah 4:1-14; Rev. Henry Fernandez

24/08/2008 10:30:00

Pictures of the Priest who brings Peace and Prosperity

Zechariah 3:6-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez

17/08/2008 10:30:00

Joshua and the Great Commission

Joshua 1:1-9; Rev. Wes Baker

08/10/2008 10:30:00

The Servant, the Branch, and the Stone

Zechariah 3:6-10; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The continuation of the fourth vision given to Zechariah expands upon God's promise: "I will remove the iniquity of the land in one day." The first part of the vision vividly displayed the reality of this cleansing, or removal, of iniquity. Now the second part of the vision tells us the means by which God will bring about this cleansing: it is through Messiah alone that the Triune God brings about justification of His people. Jesus the Messiah is the Servant, the Branch, and the Stone. What Joshua possessed as a future promise, we have in fullness in Jesus Christ. The Lord's cry upon the cross, tetelestai -- "It is finished," -- seals the matter to our hearts!

08/03/2008 10:30:00

The Robes of Righteousness

Zechariah 3:1-5; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Zechariah received a fourth vision. It is one of the most clearly understood in the series of eight revelations. The central point of the vision is this: God forgives, restores and recommissions His people to live lives of holiness before Him. He gives them the robes of righteousness.

27/07/2008 10:30:00

Living Boldly in the Expectation of His Coming

Zechariah 1:18-2:13; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Zechariah records a series of eight visions given to him one night by the Lord. The goal of the eight visions is to encourage the downcast people of Israel. The immediate application is an encouragement to rebuild the temple (the symbol of God's presence with them) and future application — the "not yet" — is the assurance of a glorious future. All of Zechariah's prophecies come to their fullest expression in Christ alone.

20/07/2008 10:30:00

Gracious Words, Comforting Words

Zechariah 1:7-27; Rev. Henry Fernandez; The first of Zechariah¹s eight visions sounds the central note of encouragement found in these interconnected revelations from God: God will bless His people. There is a "now and not yet" aspect to all prophetic utterances. God¹s intent and purpose for His people ­ in all ages ­ is to bless them. He will do good to Zion. The ultimate blessing will come in the Messiah, Jesus Christ- in His first advent and, then fully, in His second advent.

13/07/2008 10:30:00

Return to Me!

Zechariah 1:1-6; Rev. Henry Fernandez; We begin a new series of expository sermons from the post-exilic prophetic book of Zechariah. The book of Zechariah has been called the "Apocalypse of the Old Testament". It was written to encourage the people of God in their work and witness. In this first section of the book, Zechariah calls God’s people to learn from your previous mistakes: remember and repent. God's gracious invitation to you is to return to Him, not run away from Him. As you remember and repent there is restoration. In that assurance you can then move forward in the great purposes God has for His people.

07/06/2008 10:30:00

The Sinfulness of Sin: The Remedy

I Timothy 1:12-17; Rev. Henry Fernandez; In his waning years, the great Anglican minister and hymn writer John Newton had a habit of expressing the truth of what the Apostle Paul wrote in I Timothy 1:15. Newton said, "My memory is almost gone; but I remember two things: that I am a great sinner, and that Christ is a great Savior." Both Paul and John Newton had learned the secret of a clear conscience: the finished work of Christ. The knowledge of sin, for the believer, rather than driving him to despair causes him to flee to the gospel. We preach the gospel to ourselves everyday and find rest for our souls.

29/06/2008 10:30:00

The Sinfulness of Sin: It's Not What You Do, It's What You Are

Matthew 15:1-20; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Sin is not merely what we do but who we are. Our sinful actions spring from our sinful heart. Sin is a "principle or moral force in our heart, our inner being," says Jerry Bridges in his recent book Respectable Sins: Confronting the Sins We Tolerate. Our hope is not in renewal, reformation, revival, renovation, but in regeneration: new life in Christ. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is our only hope. We can face and overcome sin because of the Cross and the powerful working of the Holy Spirit.

22/06/2008 10:30:00

Abounding in the Work of the Lord (Part II)

I Corinthians 16:5-24; Rev. Henry Fernandez; As Paul closes his letter to the Corinthian church he writes a multitude of commands and encouragements all focusing on the idea that Christians ought to abound in the work of the Lord. That work takes on different shapes and emphases: generous giving, careful planning, courageous witness, respectful submission to godly leaders, but, above all, a loving attitude that expresses itself in faithful action. The Apostle calls Christians everywhere and of every time to act as mature believers.

15/06/2008 10:30:00

Abounding in the Work of the Lord

I Corinthians 16:5-24; Rev. Henry Fernandez; As Paul closes his letter to the Corinthian church he writes a multitude of commands and encouragements all focusing on the idea that Christians ought to abound in the work of the Lord. That work takes on different shapes and emphases: generous giving, careful planning, courageous witness, respectful submission to godly leaders, but, above all, a loving attitude that expresses itself in faithful action. The Apostle calls Christians everywhere and of every time to act as mature believers.

06/01/2008 10:30:00

Looking Back to Witnesses, Up to Jesus, and Forward to Joy

Hebrews 11:39-12:21; Elder David Lawrence; Using a sermon preached by Dr. John Piper, Ruling Elder David Lawrence will exhort the congregation from the Scriptures callling God’s peoeple to be faithful to the end. We are called to run the race until we cross the finishline.

25/05/2008 10:30:00

Principles of Giving

I Corinthians 16:1-4; Rev. Henry Fernandez; Paul comes to the end of his letter to the Corinthians and, characteristically comments on some incidental matters. In this section of chapter 16, the Apostle addresses the procedure for collecting financial gifts to relieve the needs of the poor in Jerusalem. From this specific setting and context universally applicable principles for giving as an act of worship may be gleaned. Godly giving is worshipful, regular/systematic, and proportional. Those who manage the gifts must be people of the highest integrity.

18/05/2008 10:30:00

Heavenly Bodies

I Corinthians 15:25-38; Rev. Henry Fernandez Paul has established the necessity and importance of the resurrection to the Christian faith. He now turns to the question, "How can an earthly body be fit for heaven?" Paul illustrates the nature of the resurrection body in vv. 35-58. His goal is to teach in what kind of bodies the dead in Christ are to be raised. The effect of the goal is to show that the Christian faith does not despise the physical (that’s the position of pagan dualism). Historic Christian revels in the physical: the eternal state will be a restoration of the original perfect creation. This is what Jesus purchased for us and proved its reality in His own resurrection.

05/11/2008 10:30:00

Preach Jesus

Colossians 1:28-29;The Rev. Vince Wood, formerly pastor of the Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Mesa, Arizona, is our pulpit guest. Rev. Wood has been named the team leader for the PCA’s Mission to the World endeavor to minister in Scotland. At the invitation of and with the assistance of the Free Church of Scotland (i.e., the conservative Scottish Presbyterian Church), the PCA has established this team to help revitalize the Scottish Kirk. On this Pentecost Sunday, Mr. Wood directs our attention to the responsibility every Christian believer has to proclaim Christ to those who know Him not.

05/04/2008 10:30:00

Jesus Lives, and So Shall I

I Corinthians 15:12-34; Rev. Henry Fernandez The first 11 verses of chapter 15 establish the historical character of Christ's resurrection as an event in real space and time, an event that was in fact witnessed by many. In the following verses, vv. 12-34, the Apostle elaborates the implications of that historical event. Some in the church were denying the resurrection. In response Paul lists the logical consequences of that denial and so proves the illogical nature of the position. He sets out to prove that if Christ is raised, then there is most certainly a future resurrection of believers in Christ. This is the emphasis of this section of the chapter.

27/04/2008 10:30:00

Of First Importance -- The Gospel

I Corinthians 15:1-11; Rev. Henry Fernandez There are many ideas and theories as to what the "Gospel" is. The Apostle Paul writes a clear, simple and historic explanation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is a gospel whose climax is found in the resurrection.

20/04/2008 10:30:00

Doing All Things Properly and In An Orderly Manner: Part 2

I Corinthians 14:34-40; Rev. Henry Fernandez The Apostle Paul has been dealing with the disorder found in the Corinthian church. That disorder spilled over to the way women functioned in the worship service. Along with the problem of self-promotion and pride, some of the women of the church, who believed themselves to have been liberated from the social conventions of the day, were causing problems, perhaps even engendering arguments, as they interrupted the service to ask, perhaps challenge, what was being said or sung in the worship service. In addition to this, some in the church were fomenting spiritual rebellion against apostolic authority to determine the doctrine and practice of the church. In our day of absolute egalitarianism — especially with regard to the role of women in the church and personal freedom (i.e., individualism) — the Apostle’s words seem harsh and out of touch with contemporary understandings of human relationships and abilities. But the sense of the passage is clear: when God’s order is followed, there is edification and, in turn, edification brings about God’s peace.

13/04/2008 10:30:00

Doing All Things Properly and In An Orderly Manner

I Corinthians 14:26-33; Rev. Henry Fernandez Presbyterians have a penchant for doing things "decently and in order." The reason for this that order reflects the character of God. God is the God of order. God’s order was lacking in the Corinthian church, especially in their worship. How should Christian worship and teaching be directed? The question is one with which believers have struggled and strongly disagreed. Paul gives clear insight as to what Christian worship is to proceed.

04/06/2008 10:30:00

Experience is Good, but Understanding is Best

I Corinthians 14:1-25; Rev. Henry Fernandez Paul, after teaching believers the nature of godly love, returns to his main theme in this section of his letter: the expression/exercise of spiritual gifts especially in worship. He connects the two ideas — love and the exercise of spiritual gifts — and applies them to our lives in this way: "If love should motivate and control the exercise of spiritual gifts in the church, then clearly the gift of prophecy which edifies the whole church is to be considered superior to the gift of tongues, which only sometimes and to a lesser degree is for and achieves the edification of the congregation." (Dr. Rob Rayburn, pastor Faith Presbyterian Church, PCA, Tacoma, Washington) Thus, while experience is good, understanding is better. We should seek the gift of telling and explaining God’s truth over personal, ecstatic experience.

30/03/2008 10:30:00

The More Excellent Way

I Corinthians 13:1-13; Rev. Henry Fernandez The Corinthian Church had a problem with pride. Their spiritual gifts were abundant. Instead of God’s gifts of grace being used in humble service and building up of others, they became agents of self-aggrandizement. The Apostle Paul gives the church a general exhortation to live a life of love for one another in Christ. The famous "love chapter" is a digression from the main argument of this section of the book, but it is a digression of great importance. Paul has already stated (8:1) that "love builds up." In this chapter he shows us how loves builds up.

23/03/2008 10:30:00

I Have the Keys

Revelation 1:9-20 Rev. Henry Fernandez, March 23, 2008 The resurrection of Jesus Christ is central to the Christian faith. This truth not only affords hope for the future, but gives assurance even today. The Apostle John, writing from exile for the faith, addresses his visionary/prophetic letter to suffering, persecuted Christians and gives them real hope for life now and for eternity. The resurrection of Jesus Christ gives believers the assurance that Christ has conquered the ultimate enemy — death itself. His give us proof when says, "I hold the keys."

16/03/2008 10:30:08

The Stones Will Cry Out

Luke 19:29-40 Rev. Henry Fernandez, March 16, 2008 On this Palm Sunday, Luke the Beloved Physician gives us a unique look at this important event in the life and ministry of Christ. In essence, as he quotes Christ Jesus Himself, Luke tells us that the nature, work and wonder of Christ will be proclaimed, will burst forth, even if not one person on earth tells the truth about Jesus. This truth calls believers to proclaim Christ boldly and without hesitation.

03/09/2008 10:30:08

Spiritual Gifts: Unity and Diversity

I Corinthians 12:12-31, Rev. Henry Fernandez, March 9, 2008 Are you jealous of the talents, abilities, or position of another person? The Corinthians were jealous of one another. They were not content with the gifts given them specifically by the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul teaches the church that the specific gift given by the Holy Spirit to every individual believer is necessary for the correct function and progress of the church. Rather than being jealous, you should rejoice in God's gifts to you and thus put them to use for the benefit of others within the Body of Christ.

03/02/2008 10:30:08

Avoiding the Wide Gate

Matthew 7:12-29; Elder David Forslund; March 2, 2008

24/02/2008 10:30:08

The Duties of Parents

Proverbs 22:6; Elder Kendall Hollis, March 24, 2008, Using as his foundation the famous article by the evangelical Anglican bishop of Liverpool, John Charles Ryle (1816 - 1900), "Duties of Parents," BAPC Ruling Elder Kendall Hollis will shed light on some biblical principles for godly child rearing.

17/02/2008 10:30:08

Pneumatikos: Concerning Spiritual Gifts -- Part II

I Corinthians 12:1-11, Rev. Henry Fernandez, February 17, 2008 Paul addresses the problems of disorder in worship specifically as it relates to the manifestation of the gifts of the Spirit of God. The question of "spiritual gifts" -- Pneumatikos: that which has spiritual qualities or characteristics or is under some form of spiritual control --sometimes divides churches. Teaching and explaining what spiritual gifts are and how are they to function within the body of Christ is Pauls goal in the passage. Last week the focus of the sermon was upon the fact that a spiritual experience that does not lead to truth is wrong and worthless. This week, as the same passage is considered again, the focus is upon the source, goal, variety and distribution of the gifts of the Holy Spirit to the Church.

02/10/2008 10:30:08

Pneumatikos: Concerning Spiritual Gifts

I Corinthians 12:1-11, Rev. Henry Fernandez, February 10, 2008 Paul addresses the problems of disorder in worship specifically as it relates to the manifestation of the gifts of the Spirit of God. The question of "spiritual gifts" -- Pneumatikos: that which has spiritual qualities or characteristics or is under some form of spiritual control --sometimes divides churches. What are they and how are they to function within the body of Christ.

02/03/2008 10:30:00

Propriety in Christian Worship: The Lords Supper

I Corinthians 11:17-34, Rev. Henry Fernandez The Corinthian Church was a disorderly congregation. A partisan spirit hovered over the church that resulted in civil lawsuits brought against one another. Selfishness ruled -- individuals flaunted their personal freedoms before others who had more sensitive consciences before God. These attitudes reflected themselves in the way the church worshiped. Paul has already addressed the disorder in the church as it reflected itself in the lack of gender distinctions in worship, now he addresses the problem of economic/class distinction in worship: the rich were ignoring and abusing the poor. At the very love feast, which was celebrated with the Lords Supper in the early church, some were getting drunk while others were going hungry. Even as he addresses the excesses of the Corinthian congregation regarding their worship, the apostle presents to the church universal some principles for worship especially as we commune together at the Lords Supper .

27/01/2008 10:30:00

On Not Neglecting the House of Our God

Nehemiah 10:28-39 - Rev. Henry Fernandez A changed heart will offer glad obedience to God in every aspect of life. One aspect of obedience that Gods people are called to follow is that of financial stewardship for the promotion of the Gospel. Nehemiah records how, even in the midst of financial difficulty, the people of Israel provided for the house of God and, in response to their faithfulness, he shows the Lords abundant blessings upon their obedience. We too are called to faithful stewardship so that we may provide for the propagation of the Gospel and the meeting of needs everywhere.

20/01/2008 10:30:00

What Is Man That Thou Art Mindful of Him: The Value of a Human Life

Psalm 8:1-9; Rev. Henry Fernandez On this Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, we consider the value of human life. The Psalmist teaches us that the majestic splendor of who God and what He has done is truly worthy of all praise and adoration. Gods majestic splendor is manifested in its climax in the creation of human beings. The effect of grasping the majesty of God in the creation of man will be reflected in the way we value other human beings. Thus, what you think about God will be expressed in the way you treat other human beings.

13/01/2008 10:30:08

Huh? Heads, Hair, Head-Coverings, Angels and Worship

I Corinthians 11:2-16; Rev. Henry Fernandez This passage of Scripture is considered by many to be one of the most difficult to interpret in all of the New Testament. Paul teaches that the officially handed-down teaching/tradition of the church universal, as it reflects Gods created order, requires a certain propriety of males and females in worship. This propriety reflects Gods order even the order in Godhead. The order does not define a persons being or worth, rather it reflects God-ordained roles. Thus, to go against Gods order is to dishonor Him and disregard His goals and purposes for His world and church.

30/12/2007 10:30:08

All Things New!

Revelation21:1-8; Rev. Henry Fernandez In the new year there is, as it were, the turn over of a new leaf, the beginning of something new. The old is past and the new is before us. And that's what this passage is all about: the promise of God for newness, in its fullness, now and in the future. Christ makes all things new!

23/12/2007 10:36:10

Jesus is the Final Word

Hebrews 1:1-3; Rev. Henry Fernandez As we prepare to celebrate with our families and friends the joy of the Incarnation, let us turn our minds again to the Scripture to see the wonder of Gods amazing work of grace toward us in revealing Himself to us in Christ Jesus. The Lord Jesus is the revealer of God: He is Gods final word. The Lord Jesus is the Redeemer of Gods elect: He performed Gods final work of salvation. The Lord Jesus is the ruler of Gods people: He executes Gods final will.

16/12/2007 10:30:34

Living Out our Christian Liberty Practically and Honorably

I Corinthians 10:23-11:1; Rev. Henry Fernandez This sermon is a continuation of the previous weeks sermon. In this passage of Scripture the Apostle Paul works out the practical application of Christian liberty. The question being addressed throughout this section has been: "Under what circumstances is it right to eat meat sacrificed to idols?" For our contemporary context that implies: how am I to live out my Christian freedom? Pauls previous point was this: to eat meat sacrificed to idols in a religious setting where something real is attributed to the act of eating is idolatry. His teaching here is the practical application principle: how can you eat without causing problems for yourself or others. Or, how must I live out my freedom so as not to cause another believer difficulty or harm?

12/09/2007 10:36:42

Is Living on the Edge for Believers?

I Corinthians 10:14-11:1; Rev. Henry Fernandez The issue Paul is addressing came from the question, "is it right to eat meat sacrificed to idols?" Paul taught (chapter 8) that there is nothing wrong in eating meat sacrificed to idols, but exhorted Christians to abstain for the sake of the weaker Christian brother. But theres another reason for abstaining: one might be lead, intentionally or unintentionally, into idolatry. The danger: convinced that an idol is nothing, a believer might be feel the freedom to join in at a pagan sacrificial feast at a religious center. And thereby participate in a pagan religious rite. Pauls goal is to convince Christians that attendance at a pagan religious feasts is an act of idolatry. It is not an issue of Christian liberty, but an issue of false worship, and thus sin! This principle applies to contemporary believers in this way: by going to the edge of the allowable, you might be drawn into the sinful. Therefore, be wise and be watchful.

12/02/2007 10:30:02

Warning: Misusing Liberty Can Lead to Destruction

I Corinthians 10:1-13; Rev. Henry Fernandez Paul ended chapter 9 with an exhortation to follow his example of self-denial and self-control for the good of others. The result will the crown. Now he turns to give an example of the disastrous effects of a lack of self control from the lives of the "wilderness" generation of Israel (those who left Egypt but rebelled against the Lord).

25/11/2007 10:30:24

The Right to Give Up My Rights

I Corinthians 9:1-27; Rev. Henry Fernandez The Apostle Paul teaches believers how to handle their Christian liberty. He teaches us to give them up. While we have the right to press for our liberties, our rights, in Christ we can (perhaps should) give up our rights for the benefit of our fellows within the Body of Christ.

18/11/2007 10:41:02

Freedom and Weakness in Christ

I Corinthians 8:1-13; Rev. Henry Fernandez The Apostle Paul teaches believers the encouraging truth of Christian liberty. Yet, how does a believer live out his liberty in light of the weaknesses, scruples, and sensibilities of other believers. Paul teaches us to live in godly balance: we may express our freedom in Christ while at the same time we limit our liberties for the good of others in the body.

11/11/2007 10:39:18

Living in the Present Distress

I Corinthians 7:17-40; Rev. Henry Fernandez The Apostle continues answering questions from the church regarding marriage relationships. In his answer he addresses a general principle for all believers in all kinds of relationships and life situations: while you are new creature in Christ, each one should remain in the condition in which he was called. Paul expands his answer to address those who are widowed or who have never married and gives sanctified advice regarding the difficulties of the times (i.e., persecution and hardship for the sake of the gospel) and comes to a surprising conclusion.

11/04/2007 10:31:18

Guidelines for Marriage

I Corinthians 7:8-16; Rev. Henry Fernandez In the midst of a diverse backgrounds, the Christians of Corinth had many questions regarding their marital relationships. The Apostle Paul gives the Church (of all ages and places and cultures) godly direction for our marital relationships.

28/10/2007 11:01:53

Honoring the Marriage Bed

I Corinthians 7:1-7; Rev. Henry Fernandez We live in a sexually charged society. What is the Christian response to sexuality within marriage? The Apostle Paul teaches an errant congregation about the responsibility to honor the marriage bed. (mp3 is missing)

21/10/2007 22:37:06

The Responsibility of Ownership

I Corinthians 6:12-20; Rev. Henry Fernandez Christ has purchased us for Himself by His once for all time sacrifice. We are, in a real sense, His possession! As His possession, believers have a great responsibility to live in such a way as to reflect Christ and His "ownership". In this passage Paul teaches us the biblical standard of Christian liberty in contrast to libertinism.

14/10/2007 19:20:08

We Don't Need Another Hero

I Samuel 17; Rev. Shaynor Newsome

10/07/2007 20:03:06

Do You Have Christian Zeal?

Revelation 3:19; RE David Forslund; October 7, 2007 Zeal is a misunderstood subject in Christianity. The nature of Christian zeal and and why it is important will be discussed.

30/09/2007 10:43:20

And Such Were Some of You!

I Corinthians 6:9-11; Rev. Henry Fernandez It is easy to cease to be watchful regarding one's life as a Christian. Christ calls believers to holiness -- which is nothing less than active, obedient faith. The standards of the world creep into the hearts and minds and actions of believers. Remembering what we were outside of Christ and the glorious fact that all who place their trust solely in Him are new creatures in Him (II Corinthians 5:17) is a sobering truth that compels the believer to live a life that brings praise to God, is good for others and himself.

23/09/2007 19:13:34

Christian vs Christian: Lawsuits in the Church

I Corinthians 6:1-18; Rev. Henry Fernandez Lawsuits are common. People go to court over all kinds of important, and unfortunately, trival matters. An agreeved spirit can become a vindictive spirit. What is the Christian attitude toward dealing with conflict, especially in the church? Paul gives wise counsel and calls believers to be willing to be defrauded rather than take matters to a secular court. Tough advice!

16/09/2007 20:18:02

Our Need of A Savior

Ephesians 2:1-3; Ruling Elder David Finnegan

09/09/2007 19:52:18

A Strong Exhortation: Removed the Wicked Man

I Corinthians 5:1-13; Rev. Henry Fernandez The call to Biblical purity -- not the holier-than-thou variety -- is a call for radical action in our own lives and the lives of our fellow believers. Sin is destructive. Therefore it is not loving to allow a person living a life of unrepentant sin to continue to do so. It is not liberal and tolerant and diverse to condone sin; it is spiritual death. Paul calls believers to confront sin in their own lives and to deal radically with sin in the church body.

09/02/2007 10:48:32

Humble Servants, Biting Sarcasm, and Strong Admonition

I Corinthians 4:1-21; Rev. Henry Fernandez How properly to regard the Christian ministry and the contrast between godly ministers and false teachers

26/08/2007 20:29:18

Busting Boasting

I Corinthians 3:18-23; Rev. Henry Fernandez, August 26, 2007 The wisdom of God found in the gospel of Jesus Christ is foolishness to those who disbelieve it. The Apostle Paul challenges believers to put aside all self-effort and party divisions and thus to look and see with new eyes what God has given all who trust in Him.

19/08/2007 21:48:26

Be Careful How You Build

I Corinthians 3:10-17; Rev. Henry Fernandez, August 19, 2007 Horatius Bonar said, ".... there may be a right foundation and a wrong building. If the foundation be right, though the superstructure be faulty, all will not be lost; yet the loss will be great. The warning both to ministers and Christians is, to beware of building wrongly upon a right foundation."

08/12/2007 22:43:04

Immaturity, Carnality and Divisions

I Corinthians 3:1-9; Rev. Henry Fernandez, August 12, 2007 The source of divisions among Christians stems from immaturity and carnality. Is there such a thing as a 'carnal Christian'? Scripture gives a clear answer and shows how to move forward in Christ. An expression of carnality and immaturity is divisions associated with following personalities and teachers to the exclusion of other believers. Paul points out the destructiveness of such divisions based on the fact that teachers are nothing more than messengers. The glory must go to God, not to the teacher. Thus, maturity must be sought and divisions must be put aside.

08/05/2007 10:34:00

Are You Rock Solid?

Isaiah 28:16; Rev. Russ Scharf, August 5, 2007

29/07/2007 10:30:48

True Wisdom

I Corinthians 2:6-16; Rev. Henry Fernandez, July 29, 2007 The Gospel is true wisdom. The source of this knowledge is the Holy Spirit, not man. A person can only understand the truth of God by having the mind of Christ, which is the gift of God and not a matter of self-effort or ability. Thus we are humbled and called to maturity in Christ.

22/07/2007 18:59:38

Man's Wisdom and God's Foolishness!

I Corinthians 1:18-2:5; Rev. Henry Fernandez, July 22, 2007

15/07/2007 10:45:50

By Schisms Rent Asunder: A Call to Unity

I Corinthians 1:10-17; Rev. Henry Fernandez, July 15, 2007

07/08/2007 10:20:26

God Is Faithful

I Corinthians:1-9; Rev. Henry Fernandez, July 8, 2007

07/01/2007 10:53:16

I Have Many People in This City

Acts 18:1-17; Rev. Henry Fernandez, July 01, 2007 Introduction to I Corinthians

13/04/1996 19:00:00

Education vs Civilization

John Robbins lecture at an Education Conference at Bryce Ave Presbyterian Church, April 13, 1996

30/05/1978 19:00:51

Reformed Doctrines

John Gerstner: May 30, 1978

30/05/1978 10:00:51

Role of Men and Women in the Family (2)

John Gerstner: May 30, 1978

30/05/1978 10:00:51

Role of Men and Women in the Family (1)

John Gerstner: May 30, 1978

29/05/1978 19:00:51

Evangelical Doctrines

John Gerstner: May 29, 1978

28/05/1978 10:30:08

The Great Commission

John Gerstner: May 28, 1978