"Church Family" [2026.01.31 Pastoral Letter and Hopewell Herald]

Hopewell Herald – January 31, 2026

Special Notice: due to postponement for weather the called meeting to approve a budget and elect a treasurer is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, directly after the prayer meeting (~8p.m.). A draft budget is attached, as approved by the Diaconate and commended by the Session.

Dear Congregation,

We’ve been learning much, from Song of Songs, about the desires and delights of Christ. In Mark 3:34–35, Jesus says, “Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.”

Sometimes, we speak of one another as “church family,” but the truth and reality is much better: that Jesus has made us to be His own family.

It truly is a wonderful thing that we are about to do—entering heaven with Him, Who presents us there, saying, “Here am I and the children whom God has given Me” (Heb 2:13).

Looking forward to going to heaven with you, Christ’s family,

Pastor

 

Audio lessons to help you prepare for the Lord’s Day:

▪Theology Simply Explained — CC37, What Every Sin Deserves 
▪Theology Simply Explained — WSC14, Understanding Sin, before God, since the Garden
▪Song of Songs 4:8–15, “His Love of Her Love”
▪Deuteronomy 28:15–29.1, “Learning from Covenant Curses”
▪Ecclesiastes 10:16–20, “The Harm of Fools in Authority”
▪Matthew 27:1–25, “The One Who Can Bear Our Guilt”
▪Song of Songs 4:1–7, “The Desires of the Delightful Bride”

LORD'S DAY – February 1, 2026 

9:50 a.m. Breakfast Line Opens

10 a.m. Sabbath School
We are preparing our minds and hearts for public worship by studying our Confession of Faith from Scripture, affirming that Scripture is our only ultimate authority, but also discovering that what we confess is thoroughly Scriptural.

11 a.m. Public Worship

▫Children’s Catechism for February 1. Q37 What does every sin deserve? The wrath and curse of God. [CC 37 Simply Explained: “What Every Sin Deserves”]
▫Shorter Catechism for February 1. Q14. What is sin? Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God. [WSC 14 Simply Explained: “Understanding Sin, before God, since the Garden”]

▫Songs for public worship on February 1: ARP45B [mp3], ARP22A [mp3], ARP51B [mp3]

Scripture Text for first portion of worship service
Song of Songs 4:8–15

Scripture Readings and basis for confession of sin and petition for help
Deuteronomy 28:15–29:1
Ecclesiastes 10:16–20

Sermon Scripture text and topic
We will be hearing the sermon from Matthew 27:1–25 about “His Blood Be Upon Us”

Lord’s Supper! (Please see the section at the end of the Worship Booklet on how rightly to prepare for and take it).

1 p.m. Coffee Fellowship and Catechism Class

1:30 p.m. Fellowship Lunch
▫Memory Verse for February 1, Matthew 27:18, For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy.

3:00 p.m Evening Praise and Preaching

We will be singing at least ten Psalm selections and hearing the sermon from Song of Songs 4:16 about “The Bride’s Great Desire”

Hopewell this Month

Hopewell’s Presbytery Prayer Focus for February
Madison-Monrovia ARP in Harvest, AL

February Psalm of the Month
ARP22A My God, My God

Upcoming Events

• Wednesday, February 4, Midweek Prayer Meeting. 6:30 p.m. in the Chapel. We will hear a sermon from Proverbs 21:9, 19 then pray until 8 p.m.
• Wednesday, February 4, Congregational Meeting, 8 p.m. in the Chapel
• Wednesday, February 11, Session Meeting, 8 p.m. in the Pastor’s Study
• Saturday, February 28, Men’s (and future men) breakfast, 7a in the Fellowship Hall

The One Who Can Bear Our Guilt [Family Worship lesson in Matthew 27:1–25]

What is Jesus doing in His trial? Matthew 27:1–25 looks forward to the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, in His trial, Jesus is being the true Priest, King, and Bearer of guilt.(click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson)Summary of the transcript of the audio: While merely human priests, prophets, and authorities fail, Jesus stands as the perfect Priest, Prophet, and King; and, He is the only able Bearer of human guilt. The tragic outcome for Judas, consumed by ungodly sorrow and self-destruction, underscores the necessity of turning to Christ alone for forgiveness, while the crowd’s cry, 'His blood be on us and on our children,' is answered in Acts 2 with a promise unto them and their children, that Christ’s blood cleanses, rather than condemns, those who repent and believe. Christ's gift of the Holy Spirit gives life for repentance and faith in Christ, through Whom there is forgiveness even for the sin of crucifying the Lord. Ultimately, the passage calls us to embrace Christ as the sole guilt-bearer.

2026.01.31 Hopewell @Home ▫ Matthew 27:1–25

Read Matthew 27:1–25

Questions from the Scripture text: What came in Matthew 27:1? Who plotted to do what? What did they do to Him (Matthew 27:2)? Where did they lead Him? Who saw what in Matthew 27:3? How did he feel? What did he do? What did he say (Matthew 27:4)? How did they respond? How did Judas respond to this (Matthew 27:5)? What did the chief priests say about the money (Matthew 27:6)? What did they do with it (Matthew 27:7)? With what result (Matthew 27:8)? To fulfill what (Matthew 27:9-10)? Where did Jesus stand in Matthew 27:11? What did the governor ask? How does Jesus respond? Who was doing what to Him in Matthew 27:12? What did He answer? What does Pilate ask in Matthew 27:13 (cf. Matthew 26:62)? How does Jesus answer him (Matthew 27:14)? With what effect? What was the governor accustomed to doing at the feast (Matthew 27:15)? What prisoner did they have (Matthew 27:16)? So what does Pilate propose (Matthew 27:17)? Why (Matthew 27:18)? Where was Pilate in Matthew 27:19? Who sent to him? To say what? But who persuaded the multitudes to do what (Matthew 27:20)? What does Pilate repeat in Matthew 27:21? For whom do the people ask? What does Pilate then ask (Matthew 27:22a)? How do they answer (verse 22b)? What does the governor ask in Matthew 27:23a? How do they respond (verse 23b)? What does Pilate see (Matthew 27:24)? What does he do? What does he say? And what do the people say (Matthew 27:25)?

What is Jesus doing in His trial? Matthew 27:1–25 looks forward to the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, in His trial, Jesus is being the true Priest, King, and Bearer of guilt.

The passage presents to us several glimpses of Christ by contrast with others.

Jesus the chief priest and elder. These are wicked, seeking to murder Him (Matthew 27:1). They even admit that it is murder by their consideration of what is “lawful” to do with the “blood money” (Matthew 27:6). And they care nothing for the spiritual care of those entrusted to them, as startlingly displayed in their callous “what is that to us?” (Matthew 27:4). Jesus is the Chief Priest Who atones for sin, Who cares for our souls, Who genuinely and perfectly keeps the law. 

Jesus the King. Pilate is a powerless, spineless governor. He knows what is happening (Matthew 27:18). He knows that Jesus is righteous (Matthew 27:23a, Matthew 27:24). But he’s afraid of the people that he’s supposed to be governing, trying to shift the responsibility to them (Matthew 27:17, Matthew 27:21a, Matthew 27:22a, Matthew 27:24). Jesus is the King Who uses His kingly authority to lay down His life for His people.

Jesus the bearer of guilt. Judas couldn’t stand to bear his own guilt (Matthew 27:3, Matthew 27:5), but now he bears it forever. The people call a frightful curse of guilt upon not only themselves, but also their children (Matthew 27:25). The only hope for this guilt (cf. Acts 2:23, Acts 2:36–37) is for His atoning blood (rather than the guilt of killing Him!) to come upon them and their children (cf. Acts 2:38–39).

What need do you have of a priest? How is Jesus that priest for you? What need do you have of a king? How is Jesus that king to you? What need do you have for the removal of guilt? How can Jesus remove that guilt? 

Sample prayer:  Lord, we praise You for Your care for our souls and kingly deliverance. Wash us in Your blood and take our guilt from us, we ask in Your Name, AMEN!

 Suggested Songs: ARP22A “My God, My God” or TPH341 “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed”

Pride Seeks Death [2026.01.28 Midweek Sermon in Proverbs 21:4–8]

When we exalt our own opinions and desires, everything that we think and do provokes God to destroy us.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon)

The Desires of the Delightful Bride [Family Worship lesson in Song of Songs 4:16]

What does the church desire? Song of Songs 4:16 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the church desires the presence of Christ and revival by the Spirit. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the bride’s dual longing in Song of Songs 4:16 for the active presence of the Holy Spirit and the intimate fellowship of Christ. It emphasizes that the Spirit’s work—symbolized by the winds from every direction—is not merely for revival in times of decline but is a continual desire for the church to increasingly reflect Christ’s likeness through the fruit of His life. The second request, for Christ’s personal presence, reorients the church's motivation from human approval to divine delight, affirming that true spiritual vitality is found in communion with Christ, Who dwells in the believer through the Spirit. Ultimately, the devotional affirms that God’s greatest gift is Himself—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—offering union and communion as the foundation of a life that bears Christ’s fruit in His presence.

2026.01.30 Hopewell @Home ▫ Song of Songs 4:16

Read Song of Songs 4:16

Questions from the Scripture text: Whom does she awaken ( Song of Songs 4:16a)? To come where (verse 16b)? and do what (verse 16c)? For what purpose (verse 16d)? To facilitate what (verse 16e–f)? 

What does the church desire? Song of Songs 4:16 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the church desires the presence of Christ and revival by the Spirit. 

The bride has heard what delights the Bridegroom, and desires to give Him more of it. Isn’t this what the Spirit teaches your heart to desire? And it is the Spirit to Whom the bride now appeals in Song of Songs 4:16. It is the Spirit Who “blows” (verse 16c, cf. John 3:6–7). He has described her as a garden (Song of Songs 4:12), full of pleasant spices (Song of Songs 4:13-14), a reference to all of her likenesses to Him), and pleasant fruits (Song of Songs 4:13a–b, a reference to all of the good produce of her life). It is the Spirit Who produces Christ-likeness in the church. It is the Spirit Who makes the church to bear fruit (cf. Galatians 5:22–23). Even in her best condition, the church ought always to pray for the work of the Spirit to make her more fragrant and fruitful in Christ. Song of Songs 4:16e–f make a second request: for the presence of Christ. The church does not desire revival for revival’s sake, but for the enjoyment of Christ with her. It is His delighted presence that is her desire. Let us learn, from this passage always to desire revival by the Spirit, and the presence of Christ.

What is your level of desire for revival? How do you show it? For Christ’s presence? How do you show it?

Sample prayer:  Lord, grant to us revival by Your Holy Spirit. Fill us with that which pleases Christ. And, grant that He would be with us, unto His great delight, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP45B “Daughter, Incline Your Ear” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me” 

The Harm of Fools in Authority [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 10:16–20]

What is as harmful as foolish counsel? Ecclesiastes 10:16–20 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that foolish governance is as harmful as foolish counsel. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the responsibility and moral accountability of leadership, drawing from Ecclesiastes 10:16–20 to contrast wise governance—marked by disciplined feasting and diligent stewardship—with the folly of self-indulgent rulers who prioritize pleasure over purpose. The passage warns against the dangers of internal rebellion against foolish authority, even in thought, reminding believers that all authority is ultimately under God’s sovereign oversight, and that disrespect—even in the heart—violates divine order. Ultimately, the message calls for humility, prayerful dependence on Christ, and a life marked by faithful stewardship and godly respect, even in the face of flawed leadership.

2026.01.29 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 10:16–20

Read Ecclesiastes 10:16–20

Questions from the Scripture text: What is woeful for a land (Ecclesiastes 10:16)? What opposite condition is blessed (Ecclesiastes 10:17)? What are the effects of laziness and idleness (Ecclesiastes 10:18)? What do such a people prioritize (Ecclesiastes 10:19)? What must the wise do, even in such a case (Ecclesiastes 10:20)?

What is as harmful as foolish counsel? Ecclesiastes 10:16–20 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that foolish governance is as harmful as foolish counsel. 

It is woeful to have fools for your counselors (Ecclesiastes 10:11-15), and woeful to a land to have fools for its nobility (Ecclesiastes 10:16). Kings and princes should understand the proper timing of things (Ecclesiastes 10:17b), and the proper usefulness of things (verse 17c). The laziness and idleness of Ecclesiastes 10:18 refer to the one who neglects service on account of self-indulgence. They live, instead, to have fun (Ecclesiastes 10:19a), indulge themselves (verse 19b), and obtain things (verse 19c). Where those in government are like this, a land is miserable rather than blessed, destroyed rather than built (Ecclesiastes 10:18). But let the wise not curse their “nobility.” In the curious turns of God’s providence (Ecclesiastes 10:20c–d), we cannot expect blessing to come by breaking His law. We must entrust ourselves and our blessedness to Him.

Whom do you govern? Are you blessing or cursing them? Who governs you? How are you responding to them?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for how we have lived to have fun, to indulge ourselves, and to obtain things. We have harmed those whom we have governed. And forgive us, for when our thoughts have cursed those whom You have set over us. Christ has been perfectly diligent and wise for us. Forgive us by His cross, and sanctify us by His Spirit, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”  

2026.01.28 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

To tune in for the Prayer Meeting, we recommend that you visit the livestream page.

Learning from Covenant Curses [Family Worship lesson in Deuteronomy 28:15–29:1]

What does every sin deserve? Deuteronomy 28:15–29:1 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these fifty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that every sin deserves the wrath and curse of God. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio:This devotional presents a sobering exposition of divine judgment upon covenantal unfaithfulness, illustrating how disobedience to God’s law results in cascading curses that afflict every aspect of life—personal, familial, agricultural, and national. The central message underscores that true obedience flows not from legalistic fear but from heartfelt thankfulness, joy, and reverence for God’s glorious Name, which is the foundation of a life pleasing to Him. When believers lose this posture of gratitude and adoration, they turn away from God, turning to other gods whom they obey, culminating in divine abandonment and judgment. The devotional emphasizes the justness of these curses, reflecting God’s righteous response to the rejection of His covenantal grace, and they serve as a stark reminder of humanity’s desperate need for Christ, Who alone fulfills the law, bears the curse, and sustains the church as its true Prophet, Priest, and King. Ultimately, the passage calls for a return to a life of joyful, thankful worship, rooted in God’s sovereign mercy, and overflowing with responsive obedience and service to Him.

2026.01.28 Hopewell @Home ▫ Deuteronomy 28:15–29:1

Read Deuteronomy 28:15–29:1

Questions from the Scripture text: What might they not do (Deuteronomy 28:15)? What, then, will the curses do to them? Where (Deuteronomy 28:16)? In what work (Deuteronomy 28:17)? And what fruit (Deuteronomy 28:18)? When (Deuteronomy 28:19)? Who will do this (Deuteronomy 28:20)? In what ways? To what extent? At what pace? Why? What will YHWH make the plague do (Deuteronomy 28:21)? Until what? With why seven things will YHWH strike them (Deuteronomy 28:22)? Until what? How much of creation will be cursed for them (Deuteronomy 28:23)? What will happen to what was supposed to give them life (Deuteronomy 28:24)? What will YHWH do between them and their enemies (Deuteronomy 28:25-26)? With what sort of plague will YHWH strike them (Deuteronomy 28:27)? And with what else (Deuteronomy 28:28)? So that they end up in what condition (Deuteronomy 28:29)? What efforts will He frustrate (Deuteronomy 28:30)? What possessions (Deuteronomy 28:31)? And whom, most grievously (Deuteronomy 28:32)? So that who benefits from what was theirs (Deuteronomy 28:33)? Unto what end (Deuteronomy 28:34)? What will He do to them themselves (Deuteronomy 28:35, cf. Job 2:4–7)? What will YHWH do to them politically and religiously (Deuteronomy 28:36)? Wit what result (Deuteronomy 28:37)? How will their produce be cursed (Deuteronomy 28:38-40, Deuteronomy 28:42)? Including especially what (Deuteronomy 28:41)? How will they relate to the foreigner (Deuteronomy 28:43-44)? What will these curses do to them (Deuteronomy 28:45)? On account of what? For what purpose (Deuteronomy 28:46)? From what failure does their disobedience proceed (Deuteronomy 28:47)? So whom will YHWH make them serve instead (Deuteronomy 28:48)? And whom will YHWH bring against them (Deuteronomy 28:49-50)? To do what (Deuteronomy 28:51)? Until what? What will they do to them (Deuteronomy 28:52)? Until Israel does what to whom (Deuteronomy 28:53-57)? So, what must they observe (Deuteronomy 28:58)? And fear? Or else what will YHWH bring upon them (Deuteronomy 28:59-61)? Leaving them in what condition (Deuteronomy 28:62)? Why? What will YHWH then rejoice to do (Deuteronomy 28:63)? What will YHWH do to them politically (Deuteronomy 28:64)? Religiously? What will YHWH give them in exile (Deuteronomy 28:65)? What will their mindset be (Deuteronomy 28:66-67)? Where will YHWH take them (Deuteronomy 28:68)? How? For what? How does Deuteronomy 29:1 summarize all the blessings and curses? 

What does every sin deserve? Deuteronomy 28:15–29:1 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these fifty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that every sin deserves the wrath and curse of God.  

There are five times as many curses in chapter 28 as there are blessings. This is because, in the administration of the law, under sinful prophets, priests, and kings, they will indeed break the covenant and bring themselves under the curses. The way that this happens is found at the heart of the passage in Deuteronomy 28:47: “you did not serve YHWH your God with joy and gladness of heart.” It is this thankful, glad zeal that produces the obedience that the Lord seeks. When they fail to obey, YHWH will make their curses to come upon them, pursue them, cling to them, and overtake them (Deuteronomy 28:15, Deuteronomy 28:21-22, Deuteronomy 28:45). This is what we deserve, but Christ has taken the full curse that we deserve, for all who will believe in Him.

What do you deserve? What is the only way for you not to suffer it?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we have often failed to serve You with joy and gladness of heart. We have not done according to all Your law, and we deserve Your wrath and curse. Forgive us and cleanse us, w ask through Christ, AMEN

Suggested songs: ARP32AB “What Blessedness” or TPH51C “God, Be Merciful to Me”

His Love of Her Love [Family Worship lesson in Song of Songs 4:8–15]

What does Christ think of His church on their wedding day? Song of Songs 4:8–15 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ delights in His church’s presence with Him, and in her He takes great pleasure. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional unfolds the profound intimacy between Christ and His church, portrayed through the Song of Songs, emphasizing that the Lord’s greatest delight is His bride’s love—expressed in heart, word, and deed. Central to this union is the image of the bride as a sealed garden and fountain, a private, sacred space of divine pleasure, yet one that overflows with life-giving fruit for others.

2026.01.27 Hopewell @Home ▫ Song of Songs 4:8–15

Read Song of Songs 4:8–15

Questions from the Scripture text: What invitation does Song of Songs 4:8 give? What does the Bridegroom say that the bride has done (Song of Songs 4:9)? How? What does He say about her love (Song of Songs 4:10), even compared to what two things? What two things does He superlatively praise in Song of Songs 4:11? How does He describe her in Song of Songs 4:12? What does He call her, here, for the third time (cf. Song of Songs 4:10, Song of Songs 4:11)? What plants does He describe as flourishing in that garden (Song of Songs 4:13-14)? What water sources does it have (Song of Songs 4:15)? 

What does Christ think of His church on their wedding day? Song of Songs 4:8–15 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ delights in His church’s presence with Him, and in her He takes great pleasure. 

The wedding has taken place, and now He calls her “spouse” in five consecutive verses (Song of Songs 4:8-12). This passage on her beauty begins with an invitation, “Come with me” (Song of Songs 4:8a). Now that they are married, He insists that she always be with Him—no matter from how remotely (verse 8b–f). Their being together should be the great desire of the bride, because it is the great desire of the Bridegroom (Song of Songs 4:9). 

The church is Christ’s great love and desire. And, the first thing He loves about her is… her love (Song of Songs 4:10)! He loves, in her, what we began the song by hearing that she loves in Him (cf. Song of Songs 1:2–3). He loves her perfumes, her graces/adornments, which constitute likeness to Himself. Thirdly, He loves her praise, the fruit of her lips (Song of Songs 4:11). It all drips richly, sweetly, like honey—her prayers, her songs, her preaching; it is not superficial or light but thick and rich. He loves the worship that is the fruit of her lips. Indeed, not just on the lips, but even when it is still under the tongue—He loves the worship of her thoughts, her heart. Finally, He loves her actions, the garments with which He has clothed he (cf. Revelation 19:8). 

In the last four verses of our passage, the church is Christ’s garden (Song of Songs 4:12, cf. Isaiah 58:11; Jeremiah 31:12). Just as great palaces would have a royal garden for the delight of the king, so she has been prepared for Him. She has come out of the wilderness, and now she is a garden. She is “enclosed,” “shut up,” and “sealed,” because she has only one object of all of her devotion, affection, and obedience. These proceed from her continually, as from a fountain or a spring. The garden is developed in Song of Songs 4:13-14, and the spring/fountain in Song of Songs 4:15, expressing the great variety, preciousness, and usefulness of what Christ produces in His church. His pleasure is all her aim, but from her riches, He offers much to the world.

How are you responding to Christ’s desire for the presence of His church? To His taking pleasure in her?

Sample prayer:  Lord, thank You for Your marvelous work in Your bride, the church. We rejoice to see Your delight in her on Your wedding day. Keep working in us by Your Spirit, and make us delightful for You to delight in, we ask in Your Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP45B “Daughter, Incline Your Ear” or TPH471 “The Sands of Time Are Sinking”

A Wedding Invitation [2026.01.25 Evening Sermon in Song of Songs 4:8–15]

The Lord Jesus appeals to His own delight in us, as He invites us to come with Him and look to Him.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon)

He Cannot Deny Himself [2026.01.25 Morning Sermon in Matthew 26:57–75]

Jesus confessed Himself to be Lord, so that by His grace, we also can

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon)

Wisdom’s Grace-Formed Values [2026.01.21 Midweek Sermon in Proverbs 20:29–21:3]

As God's grace makes us wise, we come to value maturity, chastening, God's sovereignty, and God's judgment.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon)

What Every Sin Deserves [Children's Catechism 37 Simply Explained]

Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 37—especially explaining how God opposes all sin with all of His glorious being.

Q37. What does every sin deserve? The wrath and curse of God. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Every sin, by its very nature, incurs the righteous wrath and eternal curse of God, as clearly taught in Galatians 3:10 and Deuteronomy 27, where the moral law demands perfect, continual obedience—failure to uphold even one commandment brings divine condemnation. The consequence of sin is not merely punishment but the eternal reality of God's infinite, unchanging glory being opposed to the sinner forever, a state vividly described as the lake of fire, where existence itself is saturated with divine judgment. This terrifying truth underscores the desperate need for a Savior, for no one can be justified by works of the law; all are under the curse by default. The good news is that Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, bore that wrath and curse in full on the cross, absorbing the eternal death that sin deserves so that those who place their faith in Him are freed from condemnation.

How Pride Self-Destructs [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 21:4–8]

How can one live righteously? Proverbs 21:4–8 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that one must be made righteous in order to live rightly. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the profound danger of pride, warned against by Proverbs 21:4–8, which contrasts the haughty heart that exalts itself above God with the humble heart that submits to divine sovereignty. It warns that a proud, unrestrained spirit leads to hasty, unjust actions—such as gaining wealth through deceit—that result in spiritual poverty and self-destruction, as such pursuits are described as fleeting fantasies destined to vanish like vapor. In contrast, the diligent and humble person, whose life is rooted in dependence on God, experiences lasting fruit, not because of personal merit, but by God's grace. The passage underscores that truly righteous living comes not by self-will or self-justification, but in being made pure through Christ, Whose righteousness begins to work itself out in the believer's life. Ultimately, the choice is clear: will one’s life be ruled by self or by God? The eternal consequence hinges on this functional kingship—whether one exalts oneself or surrenders to the Lord, whose justice will prevail and whose kingdom will last forever.

2026.01.26 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 21:4–8

Read Proverbs 21:4–8

Questions from the Scripture text: What three things are sin (Proverbs 21:4)? What ensures plenty (Proverbs 21:5a)? What ensures poverty (verse 5b)? What might someone do (Proverbs 21:6a)? What is wrong with these treasures (verse 6b)? What is such a person actually seeking? What will the violence of the wicked do (Proverbs 21:7a)? Why (verse 7b)? What sort of path does a wicked man take (Proverbs 21:8a)? What sort of work does a pure man do (verse 8b)?

How can one live righteously? Proverbs 21:4–8 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that one must be made righteous in order to live rightly.  

The wicked do not take God into account. So, they have an eye, heart, and hand problem. Their eye is lifted up (Proverbs 21:4), meaning that they look down upon everything. YHWH hates such eyes (cf. Proverbs 6:16–17). Their heart is audacious because unrestrained by humility. Coming from such a heart, everything they do is sinful—even plowing. Pride is a recipe for making yourself, your heart, and all of your actions guilty before God.

So, there are those who have a diligence that proceeds from humility before the Lord. This will always lead, ultimately, to plenty (Proverbs 21:5a). But then there are those who are hasty to get rich (verse 5b), and therefore willing to sin to obtain it (Proverbs 21:6a). But whatever treasure they obtain is a vanishing vapor (verse 6b), because they can only ultimately obtain poverty (Proverbs 21:5b) and death (Proverbs 21:6b). Whatever they thought they could get from others by this sin, it only destroys them (Proverbs 21:7a), because they provoke God to His face (verse 7b).

The wicked live from out of their guilt, so all their ways turn out to be crooked (Proverbs 21:8a). But those who are pure—having been justified through faith in Christ, and being made like Him by His Spirit—will instead work what is right. The condition of our heart determines both the nature and the fruit of our works.

What is the condition of your heart? How do you “look” at things? In what ways, then, do you walk?

Sample prayer:  Lord, thank You for teaching us about Yourself, and about ourselves. Grant that we would be humbled before You, and made right with You through faith in Christ. Thus, both forgive us and make us the pure ones who work what is right, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP119I “According to Your Word, O LORD” or TPH51C “God, Be Merciful to Me”

2026.01.25 Lord's Day Livestreams (live at 11:10a and 3p)

ANY WHO CAN MAKE IT SAFELY ARE STILL GATHERING. To tune in for the Lord's Day streams, we recommend that you visit the livestream page. If we still have electricity and internet, we will livestream it.

True Strength [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 24:5–6]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true strength is found in reliance upon the Lord, via His Word.

(click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) True strength, according to Proverbs 24:5–6, is not found in self-reliance or human effort, but in wisdom rooted in divine knowledge and dependence on God. The passage calls believers to respond to life’s challenges not with self-reliance, but with renewed dependence upon God, by means of repentance, prayer, fasting, and diligent engagement with God’s Word, which cultivates the Spirit-led wisdom that is genuine power. Ultimately, strength is not found in human capacity, but in reliance upon God Himself.

Making the Good Confession [Family Worship lesson in Matthew 26:57–75]

What does Jesus do in His trial? Matthew 26:57–75 looks forward to the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, at His trial, Jesus openly confesses Himself to be the Son of God, even as He was giving Himself to die for us. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio. The devotional centers on the contrasting responses of Jesus and Peter during Jesus’ trial, highlighting Jesus’ unwavering truthfulness under pressure, in stark contrast to Peter’s denials. Christ’s faithfulness remains unshaken even in the face of injustice. Peter’s threefold denial, culminating in bitter weeping, serves as a sobering reminder of human frailty and the danger of fearing man over God, yet it also points to the necessity of relying on Christ as our righteousness and new life. Pastor calls his family to imitate Christ’s trust in God’s justice, to confess Him boldly despite cost, and to look to His Spirit to transform us, so that we may endure suffering with faith and humility, knowing that Christ bore our punishment so we might be made righteous.

2026.01.24 Hopewell @Home ▫ Matthew 26:57–75

Read Matthew 26:57–75

Questions from the Scripture text: Where did they lead Jesus (Matthew 26:57)? Who were already assembled there? Who followed, in what manner (Matthew 26:58)? What did he do? What three parties sought what (Matthew 26:59)? For what purpose? With what success (Matthew 26:60)? What charge did they get two false witnesses to make (Matthew 26:61)? What dos the high priest do and say in Matthew 26:62? How does Jesus respond (Matthew 26:63)? But then what does the high priest say? Now, how does Jesus respond (Matthew 26:64)? Whom does He confess to being? Whom does He say will witness this? Now how does the high priest respond (Matthew 26:65)? What does he say they no longer need? What verdict does he get from the council (Matthew 26:66)? What three things do they begin doing (Matthew 26:67)? What do they say (Matthew 26:68)? What is Peter doing during this time (Matthew 26:69)? Who comes to him? What does she say? How does he respond (Matthew 26:70)? Where does he go (Matthew 26:71)? Who sees him? What does she say? What is different about his response this time (Matthew 26:72)? Who come to him in Matthew 26:73? What do they say to him? On what basis? Now what is different in his response (Matthew 26:74)? Then what happens? And what does Peter remember (Matthew 26:75)? And how does he respond to that?

What does Jesus do in His trial? Matthew 26:57–75 looks forward to the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, at His trial, Jesus openly confesses Himself to be the Son of God, even as He was giving Himself to die for us.

The passage intentionally juxtaposes Jesus’s testimony and Peter’s, by beginning the story of the latter in Matthew 26:58, but then interrupting with Jesus’s part in Matthew 26:59-68.

Peter is willing to see it through to the end (Matthew 26:58), but his flesh is weak.

Jesus makes the good testimony, the good confession, as He later will before Pontius Pilate (cf. 1 Timothy 6:13). So long as they are attacking Him with false witnesses, He remains silent enough that the high priest is obviously distressed (Matthew 26:62). Even after his provocation, Jesus remains silent (Matthew 26:63a). But then, the high priest does something that ensures that Jesus will respond. He puts Jesus under oath by the living God (verse 63b). So, Jesus not only answers truthfully but fully (Matthew 26:64). He affirms that He is the Christ, the Son of God, but also that they will be witness to His literally fulfilling Daniel 7:13. 

Peter is exactly the opposite. He collapses at the first query of a servant girl (Matthew 26:69-70). And, as others challenge him, he gets worse and worse, adding first one oath (Matthew 26:71-72), and then even cursing and swearing (Matthew 26:73-74). The detail of the rooster reminds Peter (and us) that this is exactly what Jesus had prophesied (Matthew 26:75). For Peter, coming to terms with the truth about himself is cause for bitter weeping. But the fear that provoked the denials did not materialize; Peter is not seized, tried, tortured, or mocked.

Jesus, the innocent One, is the One Who endures all of these things. The sham of the murder conspiracy that posed as a trial is further exposed by how quickly His sentencers (Matthew 26:66) become His abusers (Matthew 26:67-68). Like Peter, it is we who deserve to be humiliated, tortured, and mocked. For Him, it was infinite humiliation just to be a man; let alone an innocent man being tried by wicked men; let alone condemned and abused by them. 

But this He did for us and our transgressions (Isaiah 53:3–11). He showed Himself to be the Son of God that He confessed Himself to be, and accomplished that self-sacrificing death by which He destroyed sin and death and him who had the power of death.

What did Jesus testify about Himself for you? What did He go through for you? What do you testify about Him?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we adore You, eternal Son of God. We are astonished that You were abused and mocked and murdered for our sake. And even more astonished that You would suffer he wrath of God for us. Just as You gave the good confession about Yourself, give us to be always willing to confess You, we ask in Your Name, AMEN!

 Suggested Songs: ARP22A “My God, My God” or TPH341 “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed” 

His Love of Her Love [Family Worship lesson in Song of Songs 4:8–15]

What does Christ think of His church on their wedding day? Song of Songs 4:8–15 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ delights in His church’s presence with Him, and in her He takes great pleasure. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional unfolds the profound intimacy between Christ and His church, portrayed through the Song of Songs, emphasizing that the Lord’s greatest delight is His bride’s love—expressed in heart, word, and deed. Central to this union is the image of the bride as a sealed garden and fountain, a private, sacred space of divine pleasure, yet one that overflows with life-giving fruit for others.

2026.01.23 Hopewell @Home ▫ Song of Songs 4:8–15

Read Song of Songs 4:8–15

Questions from the Scripture text: What invitation does Song of Songs 4:8 give? What does the Bridegroom say that the bride has done (Song of Songs 4:9)? How? What does He say about her love (Song of Songs 4:10), even compared to what two things? What two things does He superlatively praise in Song of Songs 4:11? How does He describe her in Song of Songs 4:12? What does He call her, here, for the third time (cf. Song of Songs 4:10, Song of Songs 4:11)? What plants does He describe as flourishing in that garden (Song of Songs 4:13-14)? What water sources does it have (Song of Songs 4:15)? 

What does Christ think of His church on their wedding day? Song of Songs 4:8–15 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ delights in His church’s presence with Him, and in her He takes great pleasure. 

The wedding has taken place, and now He calls her “spouse” in five consecutive verses (Song of Songs 4:8-12). This passage on her beauty begins with an invitation, “Come with me” (Song of Songs 4:8a). Now that they are married, He insists that she always be with Him—no matter from how remotely (verse 8b–f). Their being together should be the great desire of the bride, because it is the great desire of the Bridegroom (Song of Songs 4:9). 

The church is Christ’s great love and desire. And, the first thing He loves about her is… her love (Song of Songs 4:10)! He loves, in her, what we began the song by hearing that she loves in Him (cf. Song of Songs 1:2–3). He loves her perfumes, her graces/adornments, which constitute likeness to Himself. Thirdly, He loves her praise, the fruit of her lips (Song of Songs 4:11). It all drips richly, sweetly, like honey—her prayers, her songs, her preaching; it is not superficial or light but thick and rich. He loves the worship that is the fruit of her lips. Indeed, not just on the lips, but even when it is still under the tongue—He loves the worship of her thoughts, her heart. Finally, He loves her actions, the garments with which He has clothed her (cf. Revelation 19:8). 

In the last four verses of our passage, the church is Christ’s garden (Song of Songs 4:12, cf. Isaiah 58:11; Jeremiah 31:12). Just as great palaces would have a royal garden for the delight of the king, so she has been prepared for Him. She has come out of the wilderness, and now she is a garden. She is “enclosed,” “shut up,” and “sealed,” because she has only one object of all of her devotion, affection, and obedience. These proceed from her continually, as from a fountain or a spring. The garden is developed in Song of Songs 4:13-14, and the spring/fountain in Song of Songs 4:15, expressing the great variety, preciousness, and usefulness of what Christ produces in His church. His pleasure is all her aim, but from her riches, He offers much to the world.

How are you responding to Christ’s desire for the presence of His church? To His taking pleasure in her?

Sample prayer:  Lord, thank You for Your marvelous work in Your bride, the church. We rejoice to see Your delight in her on Your wedding day. Keep working in us by Your Spirit, and make us delightful for You to delight in, we ask in Your Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP45B “Daughter, Incline Your Ear” or TPH471 “The Sands of Time Are Sinking”

Watch Out for Babbling Fools [Family Worship lesson in Ecclesiastes 10:11–15]

What is dangerous, like an angry king? Ecclesiastes 10:11–15 prepares us for the hearing of God's Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a talking fool is dangerous, like an angry king. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) This passage presents a sobering portrait of the fool as a dangerous and self-destructive figure whose speech leads inevitably to ruin, likened to a venomous serpent that strikes when uncharmed, requiring expert handling. The fool’s words, marked by endless babbling and reckless prognostication, begin in folly and end in madness, ultimately entombing both himself and those who follow him. The passage calls believers to discernment, urging them to recognize the marks of folly—excessive speech and false predictions.

2026.01.22 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ecclesiastes 10:11–15

Read Ecclesiastes 10:11–15

Questions from the Scripture text: When does the serpent bite (Ecclesiastes 10:11a)? Who else requires great wisdom to negate his harmful effects (verse 11b)? What do the words of a wise man give (Ecclesiastes 10:12a)? What do the lips of a fool do (verse 12b)? How do his words begin (Ecclesiastes 10:13a)? How does his talk end (verse 13b)? What does a fool do with his words (Ecclesiastes 10:14a)? What does a man not know (verse 14b)? What can’t he do with the future (verse 14c)? What does all of the fool’s effort accomplish (Ecclesiastes 10:15a)? What is an example of something obvious that they can’t accomplish (verse 15b)? 

What is dangerous, like an angry king? Ecclesiastes 10:11–15 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a talking fool is dangerous, like an angry king. 

Sandwiched in between sections detailing the wise man’s response to foolish kingship is this section, warning the wise about the difficulty presented by the fool and his speech. Ecclesiastes 10:11 puts the babbler on the level of the serpent; great skill is needed, and diligence required, to keep him from doing harm. The wise man seeks to always give grace with his words (Ecclesiastes 10:12a, cf. Colossians 4:6). The fool harms not just others but himself—the image in Ecclesiastes 10:12b would be humorous, if it wasn’t so tragic: his lips open wider and wider, until they become his own tomb. He is unaware that his speech is insane from start to finish (Ecclesiastes 10:13), and one big problem is that he never seems to finish (Ecclesiastes 10:14a). He continually speaks of what he doesn’t know—even the future (verse 14b). And this makes him exhausting (Ecclesiastes 10:15a), because he really doesn’t know anything (not even how to get from his own home to the city, verse 15b). Steer clear of fools and their talk!

How careful/intentional are you to steer clear of those who multiply words about foolishly? When might that be you?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for misusing and multiplying words. When we should have been giving grace, we swallowed ourselves up instead. And, forgive us for failing to heed Your warnings about other fools, who multiply harmfully ignorant words, as if they knew so much. Forgive us, and help us, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”