Crazy(?) Love [Family Worship lesson in Mark 3:20–35]

What is Jesus doing? Mark 3:20–35 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these sixteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is destroying the works of the devil, forgiving sin, and gathering a family. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on Jesus's confrontation with accusations of demonic possession, exposing the irrationality of attributing His divine power to Satan. It emphasizes that while all sins, including blasphemy, can be forgiven, rejecting the Holy Spirit’s testimony to Christ’s divine mission results in eternal condemnation, underscoring the necessity of faith in Christ as God’s self-sacrificial love made manifest. Jesus is gathering to Himself a spiritual family redeemed from sin and Satan’s dominion. The message calls believers to respond in faith, embracing Christ’s inexplicable love, and living in alignment with His Father's will as evidence of belonging to His eternal family. Ultimately, the devotional presents the gospel as both a divine rescue from spiritual bondage and a transformative invitation into God’s family, rooted in grace and sustained by faith.

2026.04.30 Hopewell @Home ▫ Mark 3:20–35

Read Mark 3:20–35

Questions from the Scripture text: Why couldn’t they eat bread in Mark 3:20? Who go out to get Jesus in Mark 3:21? Why did they? In Mark 3:22, what do the Jerusalem scribes say is the reason Jesus can cast out demons? Whom does Jesus call to Himself in Mark 3:23? What does He ask them? In Mark 3:27, what does Jesus say that He is doing to Satan and Satan’s kingdom? According to Mark 3:28, what sins can be forgiven? But according to Mark 3:29, what can never be had by someone while he is blaspheming against the Holy Spirit? What does Mark 3:30 explain is an example of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit? Who finally arrive in Mark 3:31? And what does the crowd tell Jesus in Mark 3:32? But what does Jesus ask them in Mark 3:33? And what answer does Jesus give in Mark 3:34? How does Jesus say we can identify His family in Mark 3:35?

What is Jesus doing? Mark 3:20–35 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these sixteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is destroying the works of the devil, forgiving sin, and gathering a family. 

Jesus, delivering people in crazy love. It doesn't make sense that God himself, the glorious One and the holy One, would take the form of the bond slave and be found in appearance as a man, in order to die an accursed death for sinners (cf. Philippians 2:5–8). There’s a smaller picture of this crazy love in Mark 3:20-21:  such a multitude that they can’t even eat, and still Jesus patiently teaches and heals everyone. “His own people” think this is insane (Mark 3:21)!

The scribes (who, ironically, do a better job of connecting insanity to the demonic than many in the professing church today) latch onto the opportunity and attempt to spin this into an explanation of how Jesus delivers people from demons (Mark 3:22). Those jealous of the true work of God find it convenient to explain it away as crazy or demonic (“unbalanced,” they might politely say). 

Jesus, binding the devil. By suggesting that Jesus is the master demon (or, perhaps, serving him), the scribes broach a subject that exalts Christ all the more in our eyes. In Mark 3:23-27, He demonstrates that the only real explanation for what is happening is that the “strong man” has been bound. Jesus isn’t just casting out a demon here and there. He has bound Satan and is destroying the works of the devil (cf. cf. 1 John 3:8, Hebrews 2:14, Genesis 3:15). 

Jesus, forgiving sin. It’s amazing how people tend to focus on Mark 3:29, and forget Mark 3:28. The Holy Spirit’s great testimony is that Jesus is God the Son, Who came into this world to save sinners. No one can have forgiveness if they come up with a competing explanation (Mark 3:29, cf. John 3:36). But behold the glory of Mark 3:28: ANYONE who believes in Christ, will be forgiven of ALL sins—even the worst of blasphemies!

Jesus, gathering a family. Finally, Jesus’s brothers and mother seem to have come to the same conclusion (Mark 3:31) as “His own people” from Mark 3:21. But Jesus has come to earth for much more than to become part of a biological family. He has come to earth to gather, from the family of Adam, new members of the family of God. The only-begotten Son can be identified, in part, by His doing “the will of God” (Mark 3:35). He bears the family resemblance! And Jesus has come, not only that we might be forgiven of our sins, but that we might be transformed after His own image—that we, too, might bear the family resemblance. The people at the door in Mark 3:31-32 looked, physically, like Jesus. But the Christian comes to look, spiritually, like Jesus. This is how you can identify His brother and His sister and mother (Mark 3:33-35). 

How are you responding to the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge (cf. Ephesians 3:19)?

Sample prayer:  Lord, thank You for coming into this world to destroy the works of the devil, atone for our sins, and gather to Yourself a family. Forgive us for how we have responded to the gospel with empty speculations that overestimate the power of the devil, or obsess about genealogies, or some other such nonsense. Make us, instead, to be astonished at Your love, Your power, Your forgiveness, and the opportunity that You give us to become part of Your own family. So, make us to be those who do the will of God, as Your family on earth and in heaven, we ask in Your Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH461 “Blessed Are the Sons of God”

2026.04.29 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

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

Harming Nation, Neighbor, and Self [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 29:4–6]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that manipulation by money or flattery is a way to harm a nation, a neighbor, or oneself. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This devotional draws from Proverbs 29:4–6 to reveal a threefold call to righteous living: establishing justice in society, speaking truthfully to others, and cultivating a joyful relationship with God. It warns against the corruption of power through bribery and the moral danger of flattery, which manipulates others through deceptive words, likened to setting traps. The passage emphasizes that self-advancement through ingratiation or manipulation leads to spiritual entrapment, while true freedom and joy come only through faith in Christ, who justifies and sanctifies the believer. Pastor calls his family to integrity in public life, honesty in relationships, and personal reliance on Christ, framing faith as the only foundation for a life that is both righteous and joyful. Ultimately, the message is a pastoral exhortation to live with moral clarity, spiritual vigilance, and deep contentment in God’s grace.

People of Unfailing Promises [Family Worship lesson in 1Chronicles 4:24–43]

What might be happening, when it looks like all is lost for the church? 1Chronicles 4:24–43 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, even when we see nothing promising in the church, the Lord may yet be doing much gracious work. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson)

2026.04.29 Hopewell @Home ▫ 1 Chronicles 4:24–43

Read 1 Chronicles 4:24–43

Questions from the Scripture text: Whose genealogy do 1 Chronicles 4:24-27 trace? What do 1 Chronicles 4:28-33 record about them? What types of people (1 Chronicles 4:38) do 1 Chronicles 4:34-37 list? What have they enjoyed (1 Chronicles 4:39-40)? How did they come into possession of it (1 Chronicles 4:41-43)? What does the end of 1 Chronicles 4:43 note about this?

What might be happening, when it looks like all is lost for the church? 1 Chronicles 4:24–43 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, even when we see nothing promising in the church, the Lord may yet be doing much gracious work.  

It didn’t take long for Simeon to dissolve into the tribe of Judah (not even mentioned in Deuteronomy 33). They had become an example of what might happen with unfaithful branches of the visible church (cf. Genesis 49:5–7). But now, all of Judah and Israel had been unfaithful, and they are returning from exile in great weakness. What hope is there for God’s people when the church has so declined? By recounting God’s mercy to Simeon, this passage encourages the church in all ages.

Genealogy in 1 Chronicles 4:24-27. The inclusion of Ishmaelites Mibsam and Mishma (1 Chronicles 4:25, vs. Numbers 26:12–14) is significant. Not only does Simeon still exist, but the Lord has used them to bring people from the nations into the people of God.

Geography in 1 Chronicles 4:28-33. These cities, from Joshua 15:26–32, had been lost to Judah. But their inclusion here means that the Lord may be restoring to Simeon their inheritance. He frequently reveals Himself as the God Who restores the years that the locus has eaten (cf. Joel 2:25). Who knows what the Lord might yet do in the reformation, revival, and restoration of parts of His church?

Leaders in 1 Chronicles 4:34-38. Even the forgotten tribe had leaders. This may be a significant encouragement for men in troubled times for the church. What the Lord might do for her in the future may bring future significance to what, otherwise, would seem like wasted generations of leadership. Making a lasting difference, ourselves, is an illusion. But, good leadership in the service of God, is never wasted in the economy of what He Himself is doing (cf. Ecclesiastes 11:1–6). 

Triumphs in 1 Chronicles 4:39-43 Although Simeon’s allotted cities had been absorbed into Judah, they had gone on to defeat some Amalekites (1 Chronicles 4:43) and Edomites (1 Chronicles 4:42) as late as the reign of Hezekiah (1 Chronicles 4:41). These lands had previously been cultivated by Hamites (1 Chronicles 4:40), making them ideal for their flocks (1 Chronicles 4:39-40). In God’s amazing mercy to Simeon, these particular families had not been subject to the exile. The conclusion to the section hints at this hidden blessing: “they have dwelt there to this day” (1 Chronicles 4:43). Do not underestimate the small triumphs that the Lord might give the “invisible” among His people. Small triumphs may come as a providence of great grace!

When things have gone ill with the visible church, we ought rightly to be grieved. Even the Lord Jesus was (cf. )! But, let us not be discouraged. Though parts of the church may be at a low ebb for generations, God’s gracious work is never interrupted.

How and why might you be tempted to be discouraged about what is happening in the church? What might the Lord yet do? How are you praying for this? How are you laboring unto this? How are you pursuing your calling, especially if it includes leadership, in a way that you hope God will employ in His great work in history? What seemingly small triumphs has His grace given you to enjoy?

Sample prayer: Lord, forgive us for how we have allowed grief over the church’s weakness or waywardness to turn to discouragement. We see how much you were still doing in Simeon, even when they seemed to have disappeared from the map of the visible church. Grant that we might joyfully fill the roles that you have given us in our homes and Christ’s church. And be pleased to use us in Your great work in the world, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP87 “The Lord’s Foundation” or TPH404 “The Church’s One Foundation”

Too Weak and Too Wicked [2026.04.26 Evening Sermon in Nahum 3:8–13]

We cannot count on eluding or withstanding God's judgment, but must instead turn from our sin and trust in His grace.

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

From Christ, to Christ, through Christ [2026.04.26 Morning Sermon in Ephesians 1:1–2]

The triune God has devised salvation for His glory in His Son, and the giving and receiving of Scripture are part of that divine operation.

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

Sacraments, New and Old [2026.04.26 Sabbath School lesson in WCF 27.4–5 — Hopewell 101]

There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord in the Gospel, that is to say, Baptism and the Supper of the Lord: neither of which may be dispensed by any but by a minister of the Word lawfully ordained. The sacraments of the old testament, in regard of the spiritual things thereby signified and exhibited, were, for substance, the same with those of the new. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson)

Truly Getting Out of Trouble [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 28:3–6]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our greatest trouble is ourselves, and our true hope for deliverance is God Himself. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the moral and spiritual imperative to uphold integrity, especially in times of hardship, drawing from Proverbs 28:3–6 to contrast the destructive path of the poor who exploit others with the enduring value of walking in God’s law. It warns that compromising righteousness—whether out of desperation or self-justification—aligns one with wickedness and blinds the heart to true justice, which is only understood through seeking YHWH. True integrity, is infinitely superior to wealth gained through deceit or rebellion, because it is the fruit of His transforming grace. Genuine righteousness is not self-achieved but is a gift from God, so those who walk in His ways, even in poverty, are blessed both now and eternally. Ultimately, believers must reject self-reliance and worldly solutions, trusting instead in Christ’s righteousness as the only foundation for lasting freedom and true prosperity.

Profile of an Upright Man [Family Worship lesson in Job 1:1–5

Who is Job? Job 1:1–5 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Job is a man whose life shows that God’s grace really works. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The opening verses of Job present a portrait of genuine faith rooted in reverence for God and a deep hatred of evil. Despite his prosperity, Job feared God, sanctifying his family after their feasts and offering regular burnt sacrifices, demonstrating awareness of sin’s danger. His actions reveal a profound understanding that joy and abundance are not inherently opposed to godliness, but they demand vigilant spiritual stewardship to prevent the heart from drifting from God. The passage underscores that authentic religion is not merely outward righteousness but an inward posture of worship through Christ.

2026.04.28 Hopewell @Home ▫ Job 1:1–5

Read Job 1:1–5

Questions from the Scripture text: Who was where (Job 1:1)? What sort of man was he? What did he do with God? What did he do with evil? Whom did God give him (Job 1:2)? What did he possess (Job 1:3)? What did these possessions make him? What would his sons do (Job 1:4)? When? With whom? What would Job do (Job 1:5)? When? In what manner? Why?

Who is Job? Job 1:1–5 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Job is a man whose life shows that God’s grace really works.

As we begin the book of Job, we are reminded that the gospel has been present in the world since the garden, the promise that there would be a seed of the woman who would crush the serpent's head (cf. Gen 3:15), and that we are all descended from the gospel family, not only from Adam, but also from the family of Noah at the time of the flood. Thus, there is the promise of the God who conquers Satan and death through a promised Redeemer. As we move through the book of Job, we will discover that this was Job's hope. Even in our passage today, as he offers the burnt offering, we see that he is hoping in the promised Redeemer.

An upright man. God’s grace has made Job a blameless man with unimpeachable conduct and upright character. This is genuine, both because God Himself is the One Who says it, and because it is joined to true religion. There are men who appear to others to be blameless and upright, but they are not worshipers of God from the heart. They do not fear the Lord in constant interaction with Him throughout their life, day by day. But Job feared God. He maintained a continual heart conversation of worship toward God throughout his entire life. Job 1:1 also tells us that he shunned evil. He hated evil, and thus his religion was genuine. It was genuine spiritual life, produced by God’s grace, which resulted in blamelessness and uprightness in him.

This is very important for us to remember. He will spend much of the book defending himself against those who accused his blamelessness and uprightness of being merely appearances, and who were certain that there must be some secret sin for which Job was being punished. Yet the Lord presents him, from the very beginning, as an example of what genuine heart religion looks like when expressed in life.

A wealthy man. He was a very wealthy man, not only because of the possessions and servants mentioned in Job 1:3, but especially because of his children—seven sons and three daughters (Job 1:2). And these children were also godly. Their feasting was of the sort to which they could invite their sisters (Job 1:4), and so upright that the stated purpose of the sacrifice was just in case something in their heart life was inconsistent with their outward, godly conduct (Job 1:5).

A spiritually wise man. Job knew—and we too should know, if we wish to fear God and shun evil as this blameless and upright man did—that there is a particular danger of forgetting God precisely when we are wealthy, when we are feasting, and when we are celebrating. It is not that feasting is wrong, but that feasting can become an occasion for indulging in worldliness and neglecting the Lord.

Job waited for each son’s feast to end. Apparently, they followed a regular sequence, with each son hosting in turn. First, Job would send and sanctify them. He was a man who had trained his extended family well in spiritual matters, ensuring they did not approach the worship of God without thought or preparation—by meditating on what God has revealed of Himself, by putting their affairs in order so that they might not be distracted during worship, by reflection: on what they need to repent of, on God’s grace, on the promised salvation, and on how love, obedience, and service to God should appear in their lives. We did not grow up in Job’s house, but we would do well to learn from him to sanctify ourselves for worship.

With the family consecrated, he would rise early in the morning and offer the ascension (“burnt offering”) according to the number of them all. He would lead them all in worship to God, teaching them that whenever we come to God through sacrifice, and especially we who come not through the blood of bulls and goats, but through the promised sacrifice of the serpent-crusher (what would be the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ!). This sobering reality reminds us of the seriousness of sin and reveals God’s goodness, kindness, and grace. His goodness to us in Christ is the great incentive to love, obedience, and righteousness in our lives. Genuine worship, coming through Christ, is the best means of helping us live in the fear of the Lord.

This spiritual provision was much more of an inheritance and a heritage for his children than 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 oxen, and so on. The children are about to lose all of these things, and their very lives, but they will still have the Redeemer.

Job himself is a testimony that God's grace to sinful man has been effective and successful. This will be the great theme, not just of the contest with Satan that we are going to hear about in the following passages, but of the whole book as Job agonizes. Is God's grace real? Am I really forgiven? Am I really redeemed? Or is God treating me as an enemy? And what we discover in the book as a whole is that this is how God treats His friends in this world—with a view to the next.

How do you watch against the spiritual dangers of prosperity? How do you consecrate yourself for worship?

Sample prayer: Lord, we see here how great Your grace was to this very rich man, and we ask that You would be gracious to us too. Make us spiritually genuine, fearing You and hating evil. Make us spiritually wise, aware of those occasions and circumstances that are a danger to our soul. And make us quick to come to You through Christ, preparing ourselves for Your worship and worshiping You through Him, we ask in His name. Amen!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH405 “I Love Thy Kingdom Lord”

Safely Content and Diligent in Our Place [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 27:8]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the best place to be is to be content and diligent in the place God has assigned to us. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the biblical warning from Proverbs 27:8 that a person who wanders from their appointed place is like a bird forsaking its nest—endangered by his misalignment with divine design. Departing from God-given assignments through discontentment, pride, or covetousness leads to spiritual peril. Rather than viewing these roles as burdens, the message calls for contentment and joy in faithful service, recognizing that true safety and fulfillment are found not in shifting roles but in abiding in God Himself. The ultimate 'place' is not a location, but a relationship with God, Who is our refuge and dwelling. The devotional concludes with a prayer for grace to remain steadfast in the life and calling God has provided, rejecting all temptations to wander.

Right with God through Christ's Redemption [Children's Catechism 50—Theology Simply Explained]

Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 50—especially explaining how God makes sinners right with Himself.

Q50. What is justification? It is God's forgiving sinners, and treating them as if they had never sinned. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Justification is God's act of declaring sinners righteous solely by His grace, through faith in Christ, not by any works of the law. It arises from the recognition that all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory, making a divine payment necessary for the offense against His infinite worth. Christ, as the propitiation through His blood, fully bore God's wrath and satisfied divine justice, enabling God to forgive sins and treat believers not merely as if they had never sinned, but according to the perfect righteousness of Christ. Even in final glorification, believers remain justified not by their own righteousness, but solely by Christ's, Who is their own by faith.

The Wise Will Judge and Rebuke [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 24:23–25]

How must wickedness be answered? Proverbs 24:23–25 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wickedness must be judged by authorities and rejected by all. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This passage calls for impartiality in judgment, emphasizing that favoritism—especially toward the wicked—is fundamentally contrary to divine justice. It contrasts the condemnation of those who falsely declare the wicked righteous with the blessing promised to those who faithfully rebuke evil. Ultimately, the passage points to the necessity of the Gospel, as only through divine regeneration can individuals and communities be transformed to delight in righteousness and oppose evil with courage and unity. The call is to live before God’s face, judging with His justice, which is only possible through faith in Christ and the power of His Spirit.

2026.04.27 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 24:23–25

 Read Proverbs 24:23–25

Questions from the Scripture text: How does Proverbs 24:23a introduce this next section (Proverbs 24:23–34)? What is not good to in judgment (Proverbs 24:23b)? What might someone say to whom (Proverbs 24:24a)? And what will the people do to him (Proverbs 24:24b)? And what will the nations do (Proverbs 24:24c)? What else might people do to the wicked (Proverbs 24:25a)? What will these have? What will come upon them (Proverbs 24:25b)?

How must wickedness be answered? Proverbs 24:23–25 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that wickedness must be judged by authorities and rejected by all.

This is a new section, after the thirty sayings. These, too, “belong to the wise” —especially those who are in authority. The first subsection (Proverbs 24:23–25) is about how to act in judgment, concerning the wicked. Will the wicked be falsely told, “You are righteous,” (Proverbs 24:24)? Or will the wicked be rebuked (Proverbs 24:25)? The passage takes us from the former, which is not good (Proverbs 24:23b, showing partiality in judgment), to the latter, which is good (Proverbs 24:25b, the blessing that will come upon the rebuker).

First, then, it is not good to “recognize faces” (literally) in judgment. Judgment should be according to truth, not favoritism toward either great or small. To the wicked you should say, “you are wicked,” and punish them for their wickedness. To the righteous you should say, “you are righteous,” and vindicate them for their righteousness. Notice how much depends on the judge. If justice is corrupted, the entire community is harmed: the people curse him (Proverbs 24:24b), and even nations abhor him (Proverbs 24:24c).

For his wicked deeds, a man must be declared guilty and punished. But there is hope that, before he reaches judgment, the wicked may be corrected through rebuke. Those (plural!) who rebuke will have delight. Judgment belongs to the authority (singular in Proverbs 24:24), but the opportunity to rebuke falls to many (Proverbs 24:25).

Wickedness will not be overcome in a household by the head of the household alone opposing it. Wickedness will not be overcome in a community or a nation by only the judges opposing it. Everyone must oppose wickedness. Godliness must be honored and given a good reputation by the whole community. Wickedness must be frowned upon, rejected, and rebuked by all, if there is to be the delight and the good blessing described in Proverbs 24:25. A whole culture of godliness is needed for the enjoyment of this favor. And even one biased or corrupted authority can cause great harm, as seen in Proverbs 24:24.

Therefore, we see how greatly we need the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. For it takes a miracle of God to change a person. Although, in God’s common grace, some of the blessings of just judgment can be seen, and such justice may be upheld for a time, we now live in a society where genuine Christianity has become a minority—even in the professing church. As a result, we have lost the cultural momentum of being a people who love righteousness. We have lost much of the Proverbs 24:25 blessing of good that comes upon such a nation.

So there is good instruction here for how to operate our own household or our own community—to the extent that we have authority in it.

But there is also great cause for us to cry out to God for His Spirit to come and bless the preaching of His Word, for the Lord to send gospel preachers—and by the preaching of the gospel to give the faith that comes by hearing.

It is by His saving a multitude of those whom He brings into faith in Jesus Christ, that we may hope for Him to make us a people who rebuke wickedness and take delight in righteousness. Otherwise, we will be a people who are wicked, not only doing those things, but as the end of Romans 1 says, approving of those who do wickedness, and bring a curse upon ourselves.

Ultimately, when the people curse in Proverbs 24:24, it is implied that the Lord will be the one who executes the curse. And if a good blessing is to come, as stated in Proverbs 24:25, it too must be from the Lord. We ought to live as those who are before His face. We ought to judge as those who are before His face. And we can only do that well and correctly by the life of the Lord Jesus Christ, as those who are right with God in Him and who are being made to be like Him.

Over whom has God made you judge? What wickedness could you be rebuking or refusing, instead of tolerating?

Sample prayer: Father, we ask that You would give us those who sit in judgment and are not recognizers of faces or respecters of persons, but who judge with righteous judgment. And we pray that whenever we are in authority, You would give us the ability to judge righteously. And we pray that You would do a great saving work in our land and our time, by which we would become again a people who favor godliness and uprightness as Your Word describes it. Grant this by Your saving power, through the preaching and believing of the gospel of Christ, we ask in His name. Amen!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel”

2026.04.26 Lord's Day Livestreams (live at 10:10a, 11:10a, and 3p)

To tune in for the Lord's Day streams, we recommend that you visit the livestream page.

Transforming Our Own Culture [2026.04.25 Pastoral Letter and Hopewell Herald]

Hopewell Herald – April 25, 2026

Dear Congregation,

Some of you noticed that, this week, the modern state of Israel was proudly promoting its celebration of pride over the most abominable perversions. Others, immediately noted that our own nation does this. Both nations commit these abominations against much grace. What can we, as Christian citizens of our own nation, do about such things?

The Self-Harm of Litigiousness and Gossip [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 25:8–10]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that when we feel that we have been wronged, we shouldn’t rush into judgment but make use of wise counsel, in case it is we who have been wrong. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Proverbs 25:8–10 calls believers to exercise wisdom and humility in conflicts, warning against hasty litigation and the destructive nature of gossip. Rather than immediately pursuing legal recourse or airing grievances with others, the text urges private counseling with the godly, and seeking the grace of God. The passage emphasizes that self-justification often reveal one’s own blind spots and moral failure. Ultimately, the believer is directed to bring every conflict before God, seeking His examination of the heart and relying on Christ alone for righteousness, peace, and sanctification. This posture of humility and dependence on God’s Spirit fosters genuine repentance, protects reputation, and reflects a life rooted in Christ-centered integrity.

It's All About Christ [Family Worship lesson in Ephesians 1:1–2]

What is Ephesians all about? Ephesians 1:1–2 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Ephesians, and all of salvation, is all about the Lord Jesus Christ, and God’s glory in Him. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The opening verses of Ephesians reveal a profound theological framework centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ as the eternal foundation of all divine purpose, redemption, and Christian identity. Throughout the epistle, every theme—from justification and the church’s unity to Christian living and spiritual warfare—flows from and points back to Christ, Who is the sovereign, ascended Lord and the ultimate object of faith, love, and worship. The entire letter functions as a divine invitation to live in continual dependence on Christ, whose glory is the purpose of creation and the fulfillment of God’s eternal plan.

2026.04.25 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 1:1–2

Read Ephesians 1:1–2

Questions from the Scripture text: Who wrote this letter (Ephesians 1:1)? What is his title? Of Whom is he an apostle? How did this come about? To whom is he writing—what title does he give them? What else does he call them? In Whom are they faithful? What two-part blessing/greeting does the apostle pronounce upon them (Ephesians 1:2)? From what two Persons does the apostle pronounce these?

What is Ephesians all about? Ephesians 1:1–2 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Ephesians, and all of salvation, is all about the Lord Jesus Christ, and God’s glory in Him. 

Immediately, in the opening of Ephesians, we know that this is going to be a glorious book about Jesus Christ!

This letter has been particularly precious to the church throughout the ages:

• For its unfolding of the eternally loving and powerful plan of God to save His elect. Unto His glory in Christ. (chapter 1)
• And for its exposition of justification by grace alone through faith alone. Only in Christ. (Ephesians 2:1–10)
• And for its teaching about reconciliation of believers to God and to one another. Both in Jesus. (Ephesians 2:11–22)
• And the gathering in of the reconciled into one church. In, and accomplished by, Jesus. (chapter 3)
• And the gift to the church by the ascended Jesus of the officers of Jesus who train the members of the body of Jesus in the Word of Jesus so that they can all minister to one another. (Ephesians 4:1–16)
• And the transformation of believers into their new characters. Conforming them to Jesus. (Ephesians 4:17–5:4)
• And the great war that is waged between the kingdom of darkness and the kingdom of Jesus—primarily in the ordinary spheres of life. (Ephesians 5:5–6:9).
• Only by the power of Jesus and the armor of Jesus. (Ephesians 6:10–22).

Do you recognize the pattern? What is the theme of this wonderful book about salvation, justification, reconciliation, evangelism, the church, Christian living, and Christian warfare? That all of these things are only for Jesus’s glory, only by Jesus’s power, only through Jesus’s method, only by faith in Jesus, and entirely in fellowship with Jesus!

So, it is no surprise at all that Jesus is central to the blessing at the end of the book (Ephesians 6:23–24). And here in Ephesians 1:1–2, even in the “customary” greeting, Paul tells us.

• That he is an apostle. “Of Jesus Christ.” 
• And he is writing to those who are saints and faithful. “In Christ Jesus.”
• And greeting them with grace and peace. “From… our Lord Jesus Christ.”

He’s setting us up for the entire letter: that all of our salvation (like his apostleship) is “by the will of God.” That our being set apart in the church, and growth in godliness, is “in Christ Jesus.” And that both the grace by which we wage the warfare, and the peace in which we are reconciled to God (as not only His allies, but His children!), come from “God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

And of course, at the very heart of all of this. Is Jesus!

In what parts of what Ephesians teaches do you most need to grow? How does it connect to Jesus?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we praise You for Your eternal grace to us in Christ. Thank You for this letter. Please bless this portion of it, and all of the rest of it, unto us, so that we would live by grace, through faith in Him, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP2 “Why Do Gentile Nations Rage” or TPH448 “Union with Thee”

Living Today with Eternal Joy [2026.04.22 Midweek Sermon in Proverbs 24:13–22]

Live as someone who has a joyful present, now, already, in Christ, because you are living in the certainty of your eternal life in Christ.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The sermon centers on the imperative to live with eternal perspective, grounded in the fear of the Lord and the reality of divine judgment. Proverbs 24:13–22 emphasizes that true wisdom—like honey to the body—is sweet and nourishing to the soul, as a gift from God, ultimately found only in Christ. The believer is called to reject both fear and envy of the wicked, recognizing that God’s justice will prevail and that only hope and joy in Christ are eternal. With God's work focused on believers' eternal joy, they must pursue holiness, refusing even to gloat over the wicked's fall. Ultimately, the message calls for a life anchored in the gospel of Christ, Who secures eternal blessedness and enables present joy in the certainty of eternity.

True Strength, in God, Together [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 24:5–10]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that true strength is in the Lord alone, but is not sought alone, because the Lord’s means for our faith include a multitude of counselors. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional unfolds the profound truth that true strength in the Christian life comes not from self-reliance but from fearing the Lord. Every believer, is engaged in a spiritual warfare requiring God’s grace rather than human effort. The central message is that wisdom—the lived-out fear of the Lord—is the only source of true strength. In the church, Christ has given a vital network of counselors, where believers are built up through shared faith, Scripture, and the Spirit, fostering a life marked by praise, thanksgiving, and steadfastness. But watch out for the fool, who counsels scheming because scoffingly impressed with his own ideas.

Too Weak and Too Wicked to Escape [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 3:8–13]

Why does God call Nineveh’s attention to Thebes? Nahum 3:8–13 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we are too weak to endure God’s vengeance, and we are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Nahum 3:8–13 confronts the illusion of security in human strength, alliances, and geographical advantage by contrasting Nineveh’s presumed power with the fall of Thebes, a city once considered invincible. Though Thebes was fortified by rivers, alliances, and a long history of greatness, it was ultimately destroyed by Assyria, demonstrating that no nation, no matter how powerful or protected, can escape God’s judgment when it opposes His holiness. The passage warns Nineveh—and by extension, Judah—that their wickedness, especially their violence against image-bearers of God and their idolatry, makes them too guilty to escape divine wrath, and too weak to endure it. The vivid imagery of drunkards, trembling fig trees, collapsing gates, and people hiding in fear foreshadows the final judgment described in Revelation, where all humanity will face the wrath of God. The devotional calls the hearer to recognize that no one can stand before God’s indignation apart from Christ, Who alone provides righteousness and atonement. Thus, the urgent call is to repent of sin and cling to Jesus, the only refuge from the coming day of wrath.

2026.04.24 Hopewell @Home ▫ Nahum 3:8–13

Read Nahum 3:8–13

Questions from the Scripture text: What does Nahum 3:8 ask Nineveh, in comparison to whom? What was No Amon’s geographical situation? Who were her strength (Nahum 3:9a)? How great was this strength (verse 9b)? Who were her helpers (verse 9c)? But what happened to her (Nahum 3:10a–b)? And to her children (verse 10c–d)? And what, to whom else (verse 10e–f)? What three things will Nineveh have in common with No Amon (Nahum 3:11)? What are they trusting in (Nahum 3:12a)? But what will their “strength” be like (verse 12)? What will their warriors be like (Nahum 3:3a)? What will their defenses be like (verse 13b–c)? 

Why does God call Nineveh’s attention to Thebes? Nahum 3:8–13 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we are too weak to endure God’s vengeance, and we are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance.  

What was Nineveh trusting in? They were hoping that they would be protected by the Tigris, on their west; and, their elimination of so many of their competitors; and, those they had cowered into alliance with them; and, their own formidable forces.

But they, of all people, should have known better.

Assyria themselves had humiliated No Amon (Nahum 3:8a, Thebes’s religious name) in the deep south of Egypt. Thebes had risen to glory 1400 earlier. The Nile was much more of a protection to them (verse 8b–f) than the Tigris was to Nineveh. And Thebes had alliances that were over 2000 years old (Nahum 3:9, cf. Genesis 10:6): Cush (modern Ethiopia and Sudan), Egypt (probably referring to lower/northern Egypt), Put (roughly modern Chad), and Lubim (roughly modern Libya).

The conquering of mighty and ancient Thebes was a massive victory for the Assyrians. By comparison, Nineveh’s protections were weak and pathetic. How fool-hardy was their confidence! It was Assyria who had brutalized the children (Nahum 3:10c–d), trafficked the elderly (verse 10e), and bound all the great men (verse 10f) of Thebes. But what Assyria didn’t count on was that the Lord would avenge Thebes. Assyria may have boasted in neutralizing Amon, but Amon was no true God. 

YHWH is the avenger of all. “Also she!” led Nahum 3:10 in the original. “Also you!” leads both halves of Nahum 3:11 in the original. Nineveh, also, will stagger like a drunk (verse 11a), panic like a fugitive (verse 11c), tremble and fall apart like a fig tree (Nahum 3:12), faint like a woman (Nahum 3:13a), capitulate as a gate-breached city (verse 13b), burn as a conquered city (verse 13c).

Nineveh are too weak to survive God’s vengeance. And Nineveh are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance.

But if Judah approvingly nod their heads at this, without responding in repentance, they will be subject to their own, dreadful “Also you!” Just as Nineveh was weaker than Thebes, Judah are far weaker. And whereas Assyria has perpetrated their wickedness upon image-bearers of God (and especially, therefore, against God Himself), Judah also has done their wickedness against God Himself. 

Indeed, the images in this passage describe what comes upon all mankind, from greatest to smallest, in the last day. “And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind. Then the sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved out of its place. And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, and said to the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” (Revelation 6:13–17). Here, again, is that question from Nahum 1:6. 

We are too weak to survive God’s vengeance. And we are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance. What shall we do? What protection can we have? Where can we go? Upon whom can we depend? The only answer to these questions is, “Jesus Christ alone!” Of course, we cannot cling to our sin and cling to Christ at the same time. Renouncing our sin is not our safety; only Christ is. But, we must renounce it and hide in Him! And, if we don’t, then let us not be surprised if, even in this world and life, visitation of that judgment comes upon us as a warning, as it did to Thebes, and Nineveh, and Judah.

How seriously have you taken the question of what will happen with you in the day of judgment? What are you hoping in, to protect you on that day? Will it hold up? What if that day was today?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we are too wicked to avoid Your judgment and too weak to survive Your judgment. But the Lord Jesus Christ is righteous, and He has already endured the fullness of Your wrath for the sins of all who believe in Him. Hide us in Him, that we may be able to stand in the great day. And give each of us, our households, our church, and our nation to turn from our sin—lest Your judgment break into this world against us. Bear with us in patience, turn us from our sin in mercy and power, and forgive us through Christ, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP32AB “Why Do Gentile Nations Rage” or TPH433 “Amazing Grace” 

Getting to the Heart [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 23:12–21]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the heart is the main thing that we must treat by the Word of the Lord, and from which we must live in the fear of the Lord. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the transformation of the heart, through divine instruction, into the fear of the Lord, as revealed in Proverbs 23:12–21. It emphasizes that true wisdom begins with applying one’s heart to God’s instruction, where discipline is driven by a loving desire to preserve the child’s soul and guide them toward eternal life. The passage calls for intentional self-examination, warning against envy and worldly indulgence—particularly in alcohol and gluttony—while affirming that a life lived in reverence for God ensures lasting hope and joy. The ultimate goal of parenting and personal discipleship is not mere behavioral compliance but the cultivation of a heart that delights in God, finds its joy in His presence, and passes on godly wisdom to future generations. Through the renewing of the mind and the daily practice of fearing the Lord, believers are equipped to resist temptation, guard their affections, and walk in the way of wisdom, knowing that their hope is secure in Christ.

Humble, Almighty Kingdom [Family Worship lesson in Mark 3:7–19]

How does Christ bring the kingdom? Mark 3:7–19 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ brings the kingdom by a humility that glorifies grace. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on Jesus’s deliberate withdrawal from public acclaim and His intentional humility in establishing God’s kingdom, contrasting sharply with worldly methods of power and popularity. Though hailed by crowds and demons alike as the Son of God, Jesus refuses to be proclaimed or exploited for His fame, instead choosing to retreat, select a small group of disciples, and focus on a mission rooted in sacrifice rather than spectacle. His appointment of twelve ordinary men—knowing one would betray Him—demonstrates that the church’s foundation is not in human impressiveness but in divine purpose. Pastor emphasizes that true spiritual impact comes not from personal charisma or impressive displays, but from the Holy Spirit revealing the glory of Christ on the cross, thus calling believers to reject self-promotion and instead magnify Christ’s humility and love. Ultimately, the church’s growth and witness are to be marked by this same self-emptying, Christ-centered humility, where the cross remains the ultimate source of awe and salvation.

2026.04.23 Hopewell @Home ▫ Mark 3:7–19

Read Mark 3:7–19

Questions from the Scripture text: Where did Jesus go, in Mark 3:7? Who followed Him? From where (Mark 3:8)? What did Jesus get into and why (Mark 3:9)? Then where did He go (Mark 3:13)? How many did He call to Himself up there? For what did He especially appoint them (Mark 3:15)? How many of their names can you remember (Mark 3:16-19)?

How does Christ bring the kingdom? Mark 3:7–19 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ brings the kingdom by a humility that glorifies grace. 

In this week’s reading, we see the Lord Jesus’s response to the plot of the Pharisees and Herodians to destroy Him (Mark 3:6). He retreats (Mark 3:7a, Mark 3:13a). He is the Son of God (Mark 3:11b). And He retreats. A multitude gathers to Him, so large that He has to be careful not to be crushed by them (Mark 3:9). And He retreats. Even demons are instantly defeated by Him (Mark 3:11a). And He retreats.

Why? Because He did not come to exercise earthly power, to rally enough people to his side to crush his enemies. No, He came to preach and save, and to send out preachers of the gospel of His salvation (Mark 3:14b).

Let us learn, here, from our Lord that the church is not given a mission of consolidating earthly power or getting its way by force. We are not trying to win friends and influence people. We don’t put our hope in stirring up great reviews on social media, or making friends with just the right community leaders.

What do we put our hope in? The Lord Jesus’s work, done the Lord Jesus’s way, by the Lord Jesus’s appointees (Mark 3:14a). 

Word, sacrament, and prayer in the services on the Lord’s Day. Telling the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ to sinners. Always being ready to give an answer for the hope that is within us. Bringing our little children to the Lord, and hindering them not (cf. Matthew 19:14). Bringing them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. The ministry of pastor-teachers in the church (cf. Ephesians 4:11). Father-led, parents’ ministry in the home (cf. Ephesians 6:4). Every-member encouragement, service, and reinforcing ministry, by church members who bind themselves to one another and keep those commitments (cf. Ephesians 4:12–16).

It’s not scintillating stuff or power planning. But it is the way of the Master, and should be the way of His disciples. Notice that He only gave the apostolic call and gifting to twelve men from all this multitude. And when their ministry was completed, the miraculous and revelatory gifts ceased altogether. Why would the Lord do things (then or now) in such an unimpressive way?

Because the thing that Jesus wants to impress with is the cross. This is what He later set His face to Jerusalem to do (cf. Luke 9:51). The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many (cf. Mark 10:45).

And this is what we must imitate. As Paul said, “I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (cf. 1 Corinthians 2:2). He was probably more educated than any of the false apostles, but he was careful not to impress with his own impressiveness. He learned his lesson from 2 Corinthians 12:1-13. Leave it to others to be “impressive” with their emotive worship and their (false) signs. Leave it to others to impress with how wonderful they think their own service, or knowledge, or success is. But let the disciples of Jesus Christ impress others with that which they find most impressive: Christ Himself, and Him crucified!

Whom would you like to see saved? How will you tell them about the cross of Jesus Christ? How will you get them to hear about the cross of Jesus Christ in worship?

Sample prayer:  Lord, forgive us for when we have wished to be impressive to others. We have even thought that this would be the way to bring others into the kingdom or to grow the church. But, this is the opposite of Christ’s method. Give us to have confidence in Christ’s power, exercised Christ’s way, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP18E “How Perfect Is the Way of God” or TPH265 “In Christ Alone”

2026.04.22 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

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

From Whom the Ruler Will Come [Family Worship lesson in 1Chronicles 2:3–4:23]

What do we learn from Judah’s genealogy? 1Chronicles 2:3–4:23 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these one hundred nineteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that history is the story of God’s grace to sinners. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The genealogy of Judah in 1 Chronicles 2–4 serves as a theological narrative pointing forward to Christ, the promised ruler from Judah’s line, Whose coming fulfills God’s redemptive plan across generations. Despite the persistent presence of sin within Judah’s lineage, God sovereignly preserves and advances His purposes. The chronicler emphasizes that belonging to Judah does not guarantee blessing; each person must walk with God personally. Grace includes people from other nations and overturns men's natural characters. Ultimately, this genealogy calls believers—now the spiritual heirs of Judah—to live as priests and kings in Christ—faithfully fulfilling their God-given roles in the world, empowered by grace and awaiting the full realization of God’s kingdom.

2026.04.22 Hopewell @Home ▫ 1 Chronicles 2:3–4:23

Read 1 Chronicles 2:3–4:23

Questions from the Scripture text: Whose sons do 1 Chronicles 2:3-4 cover? What is noted about Er? From whom to whom do 1 Chronicles 2:5-15 trace? Especially focusing upon which family (1 Chronicles 2:13-17)? What branch (cf. 1 Chronicles 2:9) do 1 Chronicles 2:18-24 trace? What branch (cf. 1 Chronicles 2:9) do 1 Chronicles 2:25-41 trace? Including a man of what nationality (1 Chronicles 2:34)? Whose further descendants do 1 Chronicles 2:42-55 trace? Including the origins of what cities (1 Chronicles 2:50, 1 Chronicles 2:51)? And what ingrafted nationalities (1 Chronicles 2:54, 1 Chronicles 2:55)? Whose sons do 1 Chronicles 3:1–9 trace? Focusing upon what (1 Chronicles 3:4)? And what lineage do 1 Chronicles 3:10-16 trace? Then whose (1 Chronicles 3:16) lineage do 1 Chronicles 3:17-24 trace? To whom does 1 Chronicles 4:1 return? Into what lineage do 1 Chronicles 4:1-23 fill gaps? Why was Jabez called that (1 Chronicles 4:9)? Upon what was his prayer especially focused (end of 1 Chronicles 4:10)? What tradesmen are highlighted in 1 Chronicles 4:21, 1 Chronicles 4:23? 

What do we learn from Judah’s genealogy? 1 Chronicles 2:3–4:23 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these one hundred nineteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that history is the story of God’s grace to sinners.  

Among the sons of Israel, the chronicler focuses first, and primarily, on Judah (1 Chronicles 2:3). Reuben sinned away his birthright, which fell to Judah instead (cf. 1 Chronicles 5:2). As 1 Chronicles 3:10–24 underscore to us, at the time of writing, the promised ruler from Judah had not yet appeared. The King (and Priest and temple) to whom Chronicles looked forward is Jesus. This is why Judah and Levi are the most featured in the genealogies, and why so much of Chronicles is focused upon the preparation of the temple. It’s all about Jesus.

Jesus is your King. Jesus is your Priest. Jesus is your Temple. In Jesus, you draw near to God. Jesus is your Liturgist, your Worship-Leader. What Chronicles longs for, you actually have, dear Christian reader!

So, these nearly three chapters focus on the tribe of Judah. One of the main things we see in the genealogy is that being from a tribe of blessing didn't mean that, for every individual, they were automatically blessed of God and a blessing to others. Whether it’s Er, Onan, and Shelah (1 Chronicles 2:3, cf. Genesis 38:3–10), or Achan being called by his nickname “Achar” (i.e., trouble, 1 Chronicles 2:7, cf. Joshua 7:26), or several of the kings listed in 1 Chronicles 2:10-16, we see that the line of Judah is full of scoundrels. Those from the line through which others would be blessed, are still in danger of being cursed. Even 500 years later, this was a lesson that the descendants of Judah needed to remember as the Lord continued to bring Christ into the world. And 2500 years after that, it is a lesson that each of us still need, dear reader. Each of us, individually, need to walk with God for ourselves through personal faith in Jesus Christ. Each of us, individually, must be blessed by God. 

They also needed to hear that, although the glory days of David and Solomon were in the distant past, the Lord was still working in the world—and their service of Him, in the midst of that work, is meaningful. Several of the “father of” statements in the genealogy refer not to men but to cities (1 Chronicles 2:21–23, 1 Chronicles 2:24, 1 Chronicles 2:51, 1 Chronicles 2:54. And the genealogy reminds them that some of them were from lines of linen workers (1 Chronicles 4:21), and others potters (1 Chronicles 4:23). Now, they were returned from exile, living in those cities again, and needing to take up trades again. The work of the Lord continues in the world, and we continue to participate in it (cf. Ecclesiastes 11:1–6).

Finally, we see the grace of God in the genealogy of Judah. We see the grace of God operating to incorporate those of other nations, such as the Kenites (1 Chronicles 2:55) and Egyptians (1 Chronicles 2:34–35). And we see the grace of God that overwrites our own nature. Jabez, named for the pain he brings to others (1 Chronicles 4:9), is presented as an example, asking God that he would not bring that pain to them (1 Chronicles 4:10). Our hope, dear reader, is that the God Who brought His Son into the world through the line of Judah, would be unto us the God of grace—grace to bring us into Christ, and grace to make us the opposite of what we were in ourselves. By this bookended (n.b. the mirroring of 1 Chronicles 2:3–4 and 1 Chronicles 4:1–23) section of the genealogy of Judah, the God of grace reminds us that history is an account of His work of grace. And we see the work that he does not only in the scope of the whole, but in the lives of individuals. 

What are your biggest obstacles to finding purpose? How does this passage answer that? When have you neglected your personal, spiritual life? How does this passage remind you that that’s dangerous?

Sample prayer: Father, we thank You for Your work in the life of each of the men listed in this genealogy. We marvel at the scope of your work in everyone's life. Forgive us, for when we have wanted to be the center of our own story. Forgive us for when we have neglected our personal, spiritual life, because we have presumed upon being part of the church. Give us to recognize that being part of Christ’s church is a higher honor than being descended from Judah. But, more than that, please give us to believe into Christ, to live as those who are united to Him, to fulfill our duties by Your grace, and enjoy our privileges and adore that grace. Grant it all through Christ, by His Spirit, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP87 “The Lord’s Foundation” or TPH404 “The Church’s One Foundation”

Giving Him What He Loves [2026.04.19 Evening Sermon in Song of Songs 8:13–14]

The true friends of Christ long to hear the voice of His bride. The true bride of Christ gladly gives Him His desire: praise, prayer, and preaching with a voice that is shaped by His. And, the sum of her desire is that He would come quickly for His fruit.

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

Delivered by Wrath [2026.04.19 Morning Sermon in Nahum 3:1–7]

The Lord will so completely answer the deceit and destruction of the wicked that there will be no wicked left at the last.

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

How Sacraments Work [2026.04.19 Sabbath School lesson in WCF 27.3—Hopewell 101]

WCF 27.3 The grace which is exhibited in or by the sacraments rightly used, is not conferred by any power in them; neither doth the efficacy of a sacrament depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it: but upon the work of the Spirit, and the word of institution, which contains, together with a precept authorizing the use thereof, a promise of benefit to worthy receivers. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson)

The Strength of Wisdom [2026.04.15 Midweek Sermon in Proverbs 24:3–12]

For the priorities the Lord gives us, the Lord Himself must be our strength.

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

What God Does for the Elect in His Son [Children's Catechism 49—Theology Simply Explained]

Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 49—especially explaining how God foreknew, predestined, called, justified, and glorified His elect people in His Son.

Q49. What did God the Father undertake in the covenant of grace? To justify and sanctify those for whom Christ should die. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The lesson explores the Father's role in the covenant of grace as revealed in Scripture, particularly through the theological framework of Romans 8, where the Father is portrayed as the sovereign architect of salvation—foreknowing, predestining, calling, justifying, and glorifying believers. Justification, the Father's declaration of righteousness through Christ's atoning work, establishes the believer's right to heaven, while sanctification, the ongoing process of being made fit for heaven, is accomplished through the Spirit's work in the believer's life. The passage underscores the Trinitarian nature of redemption, with the Father's decree, the Son's obedience and sacrifice, and the Spirit's indwelling—all converging in the believer's ultimate glorification. The catechism's answer—justifying and sanctifying those for whom Christ should die—captures this divine orchestration, revealing the Father's eternal purpose to redeem a people through Christ and conform them to His image.

Christ's True Friends and Bride [Family Worship lesson in Song of Songs 8:13–14]

What is the ultimate desire of Christ in the Song? Song of Songs 8:13–14 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ’s ultimate desire, in the Song, is to hear His bride’s desire for His coming. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional concludes the Song of Songs with a powerful call to spiritual longing, portraying the Church as the bride eagerly awaiting her Bridegroom’s return, echoing the final cry of Revelation: 'Come, Lord Jesus.' Central to this vision is the idea that the Church, no longer in the wilderness but dwelling in the gardens—plural, representing gathered congregations—is called to live in faithful anticipation, producing spiritual fragrance through worship, prayer, and proclamation. The bride’s voice, empowered by Christ’s Spirit, is not merely her own but His, and her worship, discipleship, and evangelism are acts that hasten His coming. The age between Christ’s first and second advent is not a time of despair but of divine purpose, where trials and labor are transformed into 'mountains of spices'—obstacles that yield fragrance as the Bride is sanctified and perfected. The true companions of Christ, those indwelt by His Spirit, are drawn to the assembly not for mere ritual but to hear the Bride’s voice, which is the voice of Christ Himself, and to join in the holy discontent that longs for His return, reflecting the heart of the Bride and the mind of the Spirit.

2026.04.21 Hopewell @Home ▫ Song of Songs 8:13–14

Read Song of Songs 8:13–14

Questions from the Scripture text: What does Song of Songs 8:13a call the bride? Who are listening for what (verse 13b)? Who else wants to hear it (verse 13c)? What does she ask Him to do (Song of Songs 8:14a)? What does she call Him? What does she ask Him to be like (verse 14b–c)? Leaping upon what (verse 14d)?

What is the ultimate desire of Christ in the Song? Song of Songs 8:13–14 prepares us for the opening portion of public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ’s ultimate desire, in the Song, is to hear His bride’s desire for His coming. 

How far the bride has come. She was in the wilderness, but as she leaned upon her Beloved (Song of Songs 8:13b), He brought her out of the wilderness (verse 13a). Now, she dwells in the gardens. He got her here. He gave her the moisture of life, instead of dryness and death. He planted the good seed of the Word in her. He brought forth her shoots and buds and blossoms and fruit. Now she is a garden of life. She is a living Eden, not with creaturely life, but with life that is from the Lord Himself, in union with Him. 

Note, also, that “gardens” is plural. The bride of Christ is found in particular congregations. This is where the bride dwells. 

What the companions do. So far, in the Song, the bride has referred to the members of the church as the “daughters of Jerusalem,” and the Bridegroom has referred to them as “friends and beloved” (cf. Song of Songs 5:1). Now, Song of Songs 8:13b calls them “the companions.” This gives us an opportunity to examine ourselves as companions. Do we listen for the bride’s voice? The Lord speaks through her. The Lord declares God’s Name to His brethren; in the midst of the assembly the Lord sings God’s praise (cf. Hebrews 2:12). It’s His voice that we are to hear in the church’s voice. True companions love the assemblies, the gardens, for the voice that they hear there. And the Lord uses that voice give them faith (cf. Romans 10:17), to save them (cf. James 1:21), to make them holy (cf. John 17:17), and to furnish them for every good work (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16–17). When Christ’s Spirit makes someone a true companion, they don’t forsake the assembling together; they desire to hear the bride’s Christ-given voice.

What the Companion desires. A true companion wants to hear the bride’s voice, but this is not the church’s highest motivation for preaching and prayer and reading and singing God’s Word in worship. The Bridegroom Himself desires to hear her voice (Song of Songs 8:13c). How glorious it is that we have opportunity to give Christ what He loves. We have seen, throughout the Song, that He loves the fruit that is produced upon believers in the church. And we have seen that, among that fruit, He loves what is on the lips of His bride and from the mouth of the bride. Now, we hear His loving request, His loving command: “Let me hear it!” Every opportunity that we have to participate in the corporate worship of the church is an opportunity to give the Lord Jesus what He desires.

What the bride desires. He loves to hear her voice, and she immediately gives Him what He wants: she speaks/prays/sings. The situation of the bride in Song of Songs 8:14 is the situation of the bride in this world, between the two comings of Christ: belonging to Him but with some distance between them for a time. The whole of Scripture ends with the bride praying for Him to come, and Him assuring her that He is already coming quickly (cf. Revelation 22:17–20). So, also the Song concludes with her pleading that He would come quickly.

The mountains are no longer mountains of separation (cf. Song of Songs 2:17). His coming quickly is upon mountains of spices, the fragrant fruit of His work in the church. Quickly, He saves all of His elect and prepares them for glory. He hastens His return. And the bride who longs for that return loves to participate in that work. She is zealous and diligent for evangelism and discipleship, which hasten (instrumentally speaking) the coming of the Lord Jesus. A congregation that doesn’t prioritize this, or a professing believer who doesn’t participate in it, is not reflecting the mind of the true bride.

How does it show, in your heart and your habits, that you love to hear the voice of the bride? How does it appear that you want to give Christ the congregational worship that He desires. How much do you desire Christ’s coming? How are you expressing this desire? How are you pursuing it?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we thank You that Your bride, in this world, dwells in the gardens that are congregations of the life of Christ, the beauty of Christ, and the fruit of Christ. Give us to be such a garden. Your companions gather to hear the bride’s voice, so give this congregation voice. Come, and declare God’s Name to Your brethren; in the midst of the assembly, sing God’s praise. And take pleasure, Lord Jesus, in the voice of Your bride as she worships You. Delight in her praying, reading, singing, and preaching Your Word. Even so, use her worship, discipleship, and evangelism to gather in all of those whom You have loved with saving love, from all eternity. And thus, come quickly, Lord Jesus, we ask in Your own Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP45B “Daughter, Incline Your Ear” or TPH405 “I Love Thy Kingdom Lord” 

Living in Light of the End [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 24:13–22]

What must we always remember? Proverbs 24:13–22 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must always remember our latter end. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This passage calls believers to live with eternal perspective, embracing God's good gifts—like honey and wisdom—in joyful stewardship, knowing that true fulfillment is found in Christ and leads to an unshakable hope. It warns against vengeful, fretting, or envious attitudes toward the wicked, reminding that God's justice will ultimately expose their fleeting prosperity and extinguish their lamp, while the righteous, though they may fall, will rise again through faith in Christ. The call to fear both God and Christ, the true King, underscores the importance of aligning one's life with unchanging divine authority rather than fleeting human alliances.

2026.04.20 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 24:13–22

Read Proverbs 24:13–22

Questions from the Scripture text: How does Proverbs 24:13 address the reader? What does it say to do? Why? What else should be good and sweet (Proverbs 24:14a)? To what? What does finding wisdom give you (verse 14b)? What will not happen, then (verse 14c)? Whom does Proverbs 24:15 address? What two things does it forbid doing to whom? Why—what will always happen to the righteous man (Proverbs 24:16a–b)? What will ultimately happen to the wicked (verse 16c)? What mustn’t we do, when (Proverbs 24:17)? Why—who will see it (Proverbs 24:18a)? And consider it what? And respond how (verse 18b)? What else mustn’t we do, when (Proverbs 24:19a)? And what else (verse 19b)? Why—what don’t they have (Proverbs 24:20a)? What will ultimately happen with them (verse 20b)? How does Proverbs 24:21a address the reader? Whom does it say to fear? But not to do what with whom (verse 21b)? Why—what will happen with them (Proverbs 24:22a)? What is the implied answer to the rhetorical question in verse 22b)? 

What must we always remember? Proverbs 24:13–22 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must always remember our latter end.

These are the last five of the thirty sayings of the wise, beginning in Proverbs 22:20. And in the first section, we had been taught to especially remember that we are before the Lord, and to note before whom else we stand. Now in Proverbs 24:13–22, the thirty sayings close by teaching us always to remember the latter end. And so, in these last five sayings, we are told to enjoy and employ whatever God gives us in this life, remembering that He will call us into judgment (cf. Ecclesiastes 11:9). So Proverbs 24:13-14 (saying #26) teach us to use honey and wisdom in that way. God made honey good, made it to be enjoyed. The same is true with His wisdom. He has made knowledge of Him and of His Word good for you. And He has made learning from Him sweet to His saints and good for them, giving them an unfailing hope (Proverbs 24:14c) for their hereafter (verse 14b). So if you are hoping in God to be good to you forever, hope in God to be good to you now, and enjoy what He has given you now—especially His word. Because it is by His word that He gives you faith in Jesus, by Whom you have a hope that cannot be cut off. 

The second saying (Proverbs 24:15-16, #27) reminds us that the wicked should tremble to attack the righteous, but the righteous need not be afraid. The righteous man may fall seven times (implying “completely,” Proverbs 24:16a), but his latter end is one of rising (verse 16b). And however much the wicked seem to prevail, their latter end is one of calamitous falling (verse 16c). There is coming a day when they will sink deeper than the grave into hell itself. If the wicked could have wisdom, they would know that attacking the righteous is self-defeating. But the righteous can have that wisdom, and they should remember their latter ends.

But let not the righteous exult over the stumblings of the wicked (Proverbs 24:17-18, #28). God, Who is preparing the righteous for glory, will not suffer them to persist in an envious or vindictive heart. If it is necessary for the sanctification of the righteous, He will give the wicked a temporary reprieve. 

There are two more things (Proverbs 24:19-20, #29) that remembering the wicked’s end ought to keep the righteous from doing with them: fretting over them (Proverbs 24:19a) or envying them (verse 19b). Remember that they will have no hereafter (Proverbs 24:20a), that they will suffer the second death (verse 20b). There is no reason to fret, for they will not prevail. And there is no reason to envy them; you want your end, not theirs (cf. Psalm 73:17–24).

Finally, remember that at the last, you will stand before Him Who sits upon the throne (God) and the Lamb (the King of kings). Whoever your king is in your nation, he is a lesser magistrate in the chain of command up to Jesus (cf. cf. Romans 13:1–7; Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 1:2–3, Hebrews 1:13; Matthew 28:18; Psalm 2).  So, fear YHWH and the King, for they are forever (Proverbs 24:21-22, #30). Those given to change, and the changes to which they are subject, can both bring sudden ruin (Proverbs 24:22). So, cling to God and Christ tightly, serving them in this world and holding loosely to the things of it (Proverbs 24:21-22, #30, cf. 1 Corinthians 7:29–31). 

Put your hope in Christ, and throw your lot in with Him. The one who belongs to God in Christ will never be ruined, because he will be blessed in Christ, with Christ, by God, with God, forever. So live as someone who remembers your end; and, by faith in Christ, live as someone who has a joyful present now, because you are living in the certainty of your eternal life in Jesus Christ.

What is the latter end of the wicked? Why? What is the latter end of the righteous? Why? How does this change how the righteous live now? Which of these is your own end? Why? Who are the wicked, against the exulting over of whom, the fretting over of whom, and the envying of whom, you must watch? 

Sample prayer: Lord, You know how hard it is for us to be mindful of eternal things when we are so tied to the moments of time in the present. Grant the help of your Spirit, that we would always live in remembrance of our latter end, and of our being before You. So please help us, Lord, in the weakness of our minds and affections; strengthen us by Christ and by His truth, for we ask it in His Name, Amen!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel”