Christ Our All [Family Worship lesson in Ephesians 1:11–12]

What is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end? Ephesians 1:11–12 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 Christ is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the profound truth that in Christ, believers have obtained an inheritance through divine predestination, not by chance but according to God’s sovereign will, which ordains all things for His glory. From Ephesians 1:11–12, it unfolds the theological reality that every event—personal, political, or cosmic—occurs within God’s providential counsel, ultimately serving the purpose of conforming believers to Christ’s image and exalting His glory. The focus is not on self-centered blessings but on Christ as the ultimate destiny, confidence, and end of all things, where even the most tragic events are woven into God’s good plan for the redemption and glorification of His children in His Son. Trust in Christ is presented not as human effort but as a divine gift, the means by which believers are brought into this eternal purpose, so that all things—past, present, and future—serve to magnify Christ’s glory. The ultimate aim of God’s redemptive work is not merely salvation but the eternal praise and delight of all creation in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

2026.06.12 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 1:11–12

Read Ephesians 1:11–12

Questions from the Scripture text: What have believers obtain in Christ (Ephesians 1:11)? When was this determined to happen? Whose purpose decided this? How many things does He work according to this purpose? What is this purpose called at the end of verse 11? What, then, was the purpose of bringing the first (and the rest!) of the predestined ones to believe in Jesus (Ephesians 1:12)?

What is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end? Ephesians 1:11–12 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 Christ is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end. 

Our inheritance is guaranteed. We don’t need to struggle to get good things from God. He has been planning to give us literally everything for literally forever.

This frees us to live for our purpose, which is clear: the praise of God’s glory. Our God “works all things according to the counsel of His will” (Ephesians 1:11), aiming at this praise of His glory. So, we too pursue our inheritance by aiming at that same praise of His glory.

This praise is the reason for which God brought that first generation to trust in Christ (Ephesians 1:12). And everyone whom He has brought to faith since then, He has also brought to faith in Christ for the praise of His glory.

Christ is at the heart of all of this. Our purpose is in Christ, that inheritance is in Christ, our trusting is in Christ, and that glory is in Christ. God grant us to live with a single eye to Him!

What more might you feel that you need from God than He has given you? What are some things that you really desire in life—how do they relate to or compare to bringing Him glory?

Sample prayer:  Lord, grant that we would know it our great possession, purpose, and pleasure to bring glory to Christ and enjoy Him forever, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP73C “Yet Constantly, I Am with Thee” or TPH448 “Union with Thee”

All for Christ [Family Worship lesson in Ephesians 1:9–10]

What drives predestination? Ephesians 1:9–10 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 God’s own, internal pleasure drives predestination. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The central message of the devotional is that God’s eternal purpose, revealed in the mystery of His will, is the glorification of Jesus Christ in all things—both in heaven and on earth. Rooted in divine sovereignty and eternal pleasure, this purpose was established not for human benefit alone, but for the exaltation of Christ as the unifying center of all creation. The sermon emphasizes that predestination and election are not about individual favoritism, but about Christ’s supremacy, in Whom all things are gathered together and through whom every aspect of reality finds its ultimate meaning and fulfillment. This cosmic vision of redemption includes not only redeemed humanity, but also the entire created order, which will be liberated from decay and restored to glory. Pastor calls for his family to align their hearts with God’s eternal design by glorifying Christ in all things, recognizing their own salvation as a special expression of His glory.

2026.06.11 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 1:9–10

Read Ephesians 1:9–10

Questions from the Scripture text: What has God made known to us (Ephesians 1:9a)? According to what had He decided this? What had He done “in Himself”? When would He carry out His plan (Ephesians 1:10a)? What would He gather into one? In Whom would He gather all things? What things would be included in these “all things” (verse 10b)?

What drives predestination? Ephesians 1:9–10 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 God’s own, internal pleasure drives predestination. 

We tend to focus upon ourselves when we think about God’s eternal purposes. And that is understandable, not because it is right, but because we are fleshly, and it is understandable that we would so sinfully think about things. The Lord, however, thinks upon us with amazing love and goodness and generosity, precisely by putting us in our proper place: under Christ and in Christ. 

In the previous verses, we read that He bent “all wisdom and prudence” (Ephesians 1:8) upon redeeming us by Christ’s blood (Ephesians 1:7). Now in this passage, we read the heart and goal of that wisdom and prudence: to gather all of creation (signified by the “bookends” of “heaven and earth,” Ephesians 1:10) together, in one—in Christ.

This was that “mystery of His will” to which Ephesians 1:9 refers. In the New Testament, the word “mystery” generally means something that God has revealed in Christ and the gospel, that we would not have known in any other way. And what has God now revealed: that Christ redeeming us (and all creation with us) has always been at the center of God purposes.

These, of course, are eternal purposes. It is in Himself that He purposed them. And, this plan was “according to His good pleasure.” That is to say that in these purposes, God was not responding to hypothetical futures at all. His own, internal pleasure is what drives this. Pleasure to glorify Himself. Pleasure for that glory to be in His Son. Pleasure for His Son’s great display of glory to be as Redeemer. And now, God has sent as a Redeemer that Son unto His glory! These riches that He has poured out in love to purchase us are all, entirely, only because it pleased Him!

This is the true and biblical way to think about election and predestination. And it is a source of great wonder and worship, and love back to God, and peace and security in His redemption. What a doctrine! What a Redeemer! What a God! Hallelujah!

In what manner have you talked and thought about election and predestination? In what manner should we all?

Sample prayer:  Lord, how marvelous You are, in the glory of Your grace! How marvelous the display of that glory in Your Son! We rejoice to hear and think about Your pleasure. Please make it our pleasure to delight in what pleases You, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

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

According to His Riches [Family Worship lesson in Ephesians 1:7–8]

How great is redemption? Ephesians 1:7–8 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 redemption's greatness corresponds to God’s grace and God’s wisdom. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on Ephesians 1:7–8, revealing that redemption through Christ’s blood is not merely a transaction but the ultimate expression of God’s infinite grace, wisdom, and divine glory. It emphasizes that the price of redemption—paid through the blood of God the Son—corresponds perfectly to the boundless riches of God’s grace, affirming Christ’s full divinity and the eternal, sovereign plan of God. The passage highlights how this redemption is not only a release from sin’s penalty but also a profound demonstration of God’s wisdom, surpassing all other displays of His creativity and providence. Pastor calls his family to respond with awe, gratitude, and a transformed life that values the gospel above all else, recognizing that the cross is the pinnacle of divine insight and glory. The tone is reverent, instructive, and deeply pastoral, inviting believers into a deeper appreciation of Christ’s supremacy and the depth of God’s grace.

2026.06.10 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 1:7–8

Read Ephesians 1:7–8

Questions from the Scripture text: What do we have in Jesus (Ephesians 1:7a)? Through what? What does this redemption entail? According to what was this redemption purchased? What does Christ make this redemption do unto us (Ephesians 1:8a)? In what two things does this redemption abound?

How great is redemption? Ephesians 1:7–8 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 its greatness corresponds to God’s grace and God’s wisdom. 

Through hundreds of pages of Scripture, the Holy Spirit prepares us to understand the RICHES of Ephesians 1:7–8. Redemption was something that the life of the firstborn was given to purchase for Israel. And redemption was something in which money could be offered to purchase the life of that firstborn, in memory of when the blood of the Passover lamb protected that life. Redemption was something that could be purchased for anyone who ended up in slavery through debt.

But never was there a redemption like this. Redemption through His blood! All the wealth in the world—indeed, every created thing—together cannot begin to indicate the value of Him from Whom, and through Whom, and for Whom all things exist. And yet, He took to Himself flesh and blood that He might spill that blood in order to purchase us!

What bank is so flush with wealth that it can afford such a payment as the blood of Christ? The bank of the riches of God’s grace. We often talk about depending upon grace, but I think we could do with more meditating upon the greatness of that grace upon which we depend, praise God! It is a grace so rich that it was according to these riches that the blood of Jesus purchased us for adoption as sons of God.

Indeed, of all of the things that God’s wisdom and understanding has devised, here is one thing that Scripture describes all of His wisdom and understanding bending itself upon: purchasing us through the blood of Christ according to the riches of His grace.

Truly, our redemption is a marvel at which we will wonder in praise for unending ages. And it makes one’s heart ache with a desire that the flesh would be mortified more even now, in order that we might wonder and praise more even now. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (cf. Ephesians 1:3)!

From what are you redeemed? At what cost? How are you responding to the riches of His grace? The abundance of His wisdom?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we bless Your Name, Whose redemption is not just from the riches of Your grace, but with a lavishness that is according to those riches. We thank You for the precious blood of Christ, and praise You for the divine wisdom that devised such a glorious salvation. Make Your grace to keep abounding to us, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP65A “Praise Awaits You, God” or TPH425 “How Sweet and Awesome Is the Place”

Determined to Adoption [Family Worship lesson Ephesians 1:5–6]

What is predestination? Ephesians 1:5–6 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 predestination is God’s good pleasure to adopt children by His glorious grace. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional unfolds the doctrine of predestination as a profound expression of God’s eternal love, rooted not in human merit but in the good pleasure of His will. From Ephesians 1:5–6, it emphasizes that the substance of predestination is adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, not merely forgiveness or justification, highlighting God’s desire to expand His family. The source, standard, and success of this divine plan are all grounded in God’s grace—His unearned, self-giving love that culminates in believers being accepted in the Beloved, already pleasing to God through union with Christ. The ultimate purpose is the praise of God’s glorious grace, calling for a response of worship, deep comfort, and joy.

2026.06.09 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 1:5–6

Read Ephesians 1:5–6

Questions from the Scripture text: Who predestined whom (Ephesians 1:5a)? To what? By Whom? As sons to Whom? According to what? Unto what end (Ephesians 1:6a)? What had He done by that grace? In Whom?

What is predestination? Ephesians 1:5–6 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 predestination is God’s good pleasure to adopt children by His glorious grace. 

The gospel is about God expanding His family. Though it sounds almost blasphemous to talk that way, Romans 8:29 tells us that, from before time began, God foreknew (meaning “loved in advance”) certain people, whom He determined that He would make into the likeness of His Son and into a multitude of siblings for His Son.

In this week’s Ephesians passage, we read of that determination in relation to the Father: if someone is a believer, it is because before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), God determined to adopt him as a son to Himself (Ephesians 1:5a), as well as a sibling to the Son (cf. Romans 8:29). Of course, there is only one way that this adoption could be conceived from all eternity—by His loving us (end of Ephesians 1:4) in the eternally Beloved (Ephesians 1:6b) Son, Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:5a).

And lest we have any ideas that this could happen by some version of divine foresight in which our own choices determine God’s (which would have the ludicrous effect of making us sovereign instead of God), the Scripture tells us exactly the criteria of this choice (“according to the good pleasure of His will,” Ephesians 1:5b) and the ultimate purpose of this choice (“to the praise of the glory of His grace,” v6a). The only cause of the choice is His own glorious grace.

This destiny, to which He has predestined us, requires that, in time, His grace would bring us to faith (cf. Ephesians 2:8-9). It is this faith through which the Spirit unites us to the Beloved One, in order that in Him (and only in Him) would we be made accepted (Ephesians 1:6b). We don’t “believe into” predestination. We believe in Jesus, as God has predestined us to do. And God has indeed given that grace. He graciously gave His Son for us. And He graciously gave His Spirit, Who graciously gives us faith to believe in His Son and be joined to His Son. Thus, over and over again, our salvation is “to the praise of the glory of His grace.”

Our justification (being given righteous standing with God) and adoption (being made children of the Father and siblings of the Son) happen at the same time. But the justification is a means unto the adoption—which is the great occasion of the praise of God’s glorious grace.

This is what predestination is all about—not nit-picking over doctrinal logic, but everlasting love that has a 100% success rate of bearing fruit, as sinners have this adoption bestowed upon them, and God’s grace is gloriously displayed, in order to be eternally praised. Hallelujah! Literally.

How ought you to respond to Jesus? How ought you to respond to predestination?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we praise You for the glorious grace in which You were well pleased to adopt us, in Your love, to Yourself, by Jesus Christ. Grant the ministry of Your Spirit, that we would not only be accepted in Him, but that we would be made like Him, to live acceptably forever.

Suggested songs: ARP65A “Praise Awaits You, God” or TPH425 “How Sweet and Awesome Is the Place”

Blessed in the Blessed One [Family Worship lesson in Ephesians 1:3–4]

What effect should the great truths of the faith have upon us? Ephesians 1:3–4 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 the great truths of the faith should make us burst forth with praise unto God for their reality. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional unfolds the profound truth that believers are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ, rooted in God’s eternal election before the foundation of the world. It emphasizes the triune nature of God, the hypostatic union of Christ, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, highlighting how Christ’s incarnation, sacrifice, and exaltation secure our blessedness with Him in the heavenly realms. Central to this message is the doctrine of unconditional election—God’s sovereign, loving choice of believers in Christ for the purpose of their ultimate holiness and blamelessness before Him, a goal guaranteed by divine grace. The passage calls for worship and joy, not only because of past redemption but because of the certain future fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose. Pastor underscores that these truths, though often opposed, are foundational to Christian confidence, comfort, and praise, urging believers to live in the strength and gladness they provide.

2026.06.08 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 1:3–4

Read Ephesians 1:3–4

Questions from the Scripture text: Whose God does Ephesians 1:3 begin to praise? What else does it call Him? What does this combination remind us about Jesus (cf. WSC 21)? Whom has this God blessed? With what? Where? In Whom? What did God do to us (Ephesians 1:4)? In Whom? When? To what end? Before Whom? In what?

What effect should the great truths of the faith have upon us? Ephesians 1:3–4 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 the great truths of the faith should make us burst forth with praise unto God for their reality. 

After the greeting—which was already rich with the glory and grace of God in Christ—the apostle explodes with a twelve-verse run-on sentence of praise. Just the first two verses’ worth are full of so much rich doctrine…

Christ’s humanity and deity. God is both His God (in His humanity) and His Father (in His deity). 

Christ’s person and work. He is the Lord—the eternally blessed and only living and true God, Who created all things and rules over all things. He is Jesus, for He is the One by Whom the Lord saves. He is Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed Prophet who reveals God’s will, Priest who intercedes for God’s people, and King who exercises God’s authority.

The completeness and greatness of God’s blessing. Every blessing. Even in heaven.

The means and Mediator of that blessing. The Holy Spirit (it is “spiritual” blessing) is the One Who applies it to us, and He applies it to us by uniting us to Christ. We know that it would be impossible for us to be seated in heaven, let alone blessed in heaven, apart from Christ. But every blessing of God comes to us in this same way: in Christ.

The source of that blessing: unconditional election. God’s free choice. The nature of election. Not just a bare choosing, but a choosing in which God considers someone in connection and unity with His Son. The timing of election. Before the foundation of the world. The end result/goal of election. Holiness and blamelessness. The greatness of this holiness. It is not merely a blamelessness before creatures, but a blamelessness and holiness before the holy, holy, holy God!

It is no surprise that many of these are the very truths that have been compromised and attacked throughout the history of the church. The world, the flesh, and the devil hate the glory of God. And so these truths are to be defended vigorously! But not just defended. Delighted in. Rejoiced over. Turned back Godward in praise! This is, after all, the use of these truths in Scripture and the reason for defending them to begin with.

Why is each of these truths important? How is it precious? How would you defend it? How are you responding to it?

Sample prayer:  Lord, thank you for blessing us from all eternity in Christ, in heaven in Christ, unto our final holiness and blamelessness in Christ. We bless Your Name for this, in Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP98 “O Sing a New Song” or TPH448 “Union with Thee”

2026.06.07 Lord's Day Livestreams (live at 10:10a, 11:10a, and 3p)

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Christ Our All [Family Worship lesson in Ephesians 1:11–12]

What is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end? Ephesians 1:11–12 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 Christ is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional centers on the profound truth that in Christ, believers have obtained an inheritance through divine predestination, not by chance but according to God’s sovereign will, which ordains all things for His glory. From Ephesians 1:11–12, it unfolds the theological reality that every event—personal, political, or cosmic—occurs within God’s providential counsel, ultimately serving the purpose of conforming believers to Christ’s image and exalting His glory. The focus is not on self-centered blessings but on Christ as the ultimate destiny, confidence, and end of all things, where even the most tragic events are woven into God’s good plan for the redemption and glorification of His children in His Son. Trust in Christ is presented not as human effort but as a divine gift, the means by which believers are brought into this eternal purpose, so that all things—past, present, and future—serve to magnify Christ’s glory. The ultimate aim of God’s redemptive work is not merely salvation but the eternal praise and delight of all creation in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

2026.06.06 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 1:11–12

Read Ephesians 1:11–12

Questions from the Scripture text: What have believers obtain in Christ (Ephesians 1:11)? When was this determined to happen? Whose purpose decided this? How many things does He work according to this purpose? What is this purpose called at the end of verse 11? What, then, was the purpose of bringing the first (and the rest!) of the predestined ones to believe in Jesus (Ephesians 1:12)?

What is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end? Ephesians 1:11–12 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 Christ is our great purpose, confidence, hope, and end. 

Our inheritance is guaranteed. We don’t need to struggle to get good things from God. He has been planning to give us literally everything for literally forever.

This frees us to live for our purpose, which is clear: the praise of God’s glory. Our God “works all things according to the counsel of His will” (Ephesians 1:11), aiming at this praise of His glory. So, we too pursue our inheritance by aiming at that same praise of His glory.

This praise is the reason for which God brought that first generation to trust in Christ (Ephesians 1:12). And everyone whom He has brought to faith since then, He has also brought to faith in Christ for the praise of His glory.

Christ is at the heart of all of this. Our purpose is in Christ, that inheritance is in Christ, our trusting is in Christ, and that glory is in Christ. God grant us to live with a single eye to Him!

What more might you feel that you need from God than He has given you? What are some things that you really desire in life—how do they relate to or compare to bringing Him glory?

Sample prayer:  Lord, grant that we would know it our great possession, purpose, and pleasure to bring glory to Christ and enjoy Him forever, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP73C “Yet Constantly, I Am with Thee” or TPH448 “Union with Thee”

How to Hide in the Lord [Family Worship lesson in Zephaniah 2:1–3]

How should we seek the Lord? Zephaniah 2:1–3 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should seek the Lord humbly, urgently, and dependently. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: [Transcription unavailable at time of publication].

2026.06.05 Hopewell @Home ▫ Zephaniah 2:1–3

Read Zephaniah 2:1–3

Questions from the Scripture text: What does Zephaniah 2:1 tell them to do to themselves? What does Zephaniah 2:2 press about the timing? Whom does Zephaniah 2:3 say to seek? And what to seek? In what hope?

How should we seek the Lord? Zephaniah 2:1–3 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should seek the Lord humbly, urgently, and dependently.  

There’s a translation issue with our English version of Zephaniah 2:1. The original says to “gather as chaff,” or “stubble.” The point is awareness of smallness and danger. Like stubble before a wildfire. Those who are hoping to be hidden by grace, should come in humble need of that grace. The point in Zephaniah 2:2 can be seen in the triple “Before,” which presses upon us the urgency of time. Judgment hastens (cf. Zephaniah 1:14), and we do not know how long we have. So the time to hide in YHWH is now! Finally, Zephaniah 2:3 teaches them to come dependently. They don’t have righteousness, or even meekness of their own. So they must seek YHWH. They must seek righteousness from YHWH. They must seek meekness from YHWH. When we come to the Lord, we come as dependents, not contributors. The necessity of not coming presumptuously is emphasized by the “perhaps” of verse 3. “It may be” that you will be hidden. Hope for salvation is sure in Him, but we mustn’t come presumptuously. Dear reader, come to the Lord humbly, urgently, and dependently!

How is your humility in hiding in the Lord seen? How is your urgency in hiding in the Lord seen? How is your dependence?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we deserve the fullness of Your wrath. We are as stubble before the wildfire. And we need You to hide us now, even now, before the great day comes. Save, now, O Lord! Finally, we seek from You not only that You would be righteous and gentle toward us, but that our own righteousness and gentleness would come from You by Your grace. So, hide us in Yourself we ask, through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP32AB “What Blessedness” or TPH130A “LORD, From the Depths to You I Call”

Heart-Keeping [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 4:23]

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 heart is the thing that must be kept, for the keeping of the life. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: [Transcription unavailable at time of publication].

Jesus Saves His Bairns [Family Worship lesson in Mark 5:21–43]

What does Jesus offer? Mark 5:21–43 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty-three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus offers to us to be as His own dear children. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: [Transcription unavailable at time of publication].

2026.06.04 Hopewell @Home ▫ Mark 5:21–43

Read Mark 5:21–43

Questions from the Scripture text: When Jesus crossed back to the Jewish side of the lake, who gathered to him (Mark 5:21)? Who fell at his feet in Mark 5:22? What did he ask Jesus to do in Mark 5:23? Where did Jesus go in Mark 5:24? Who went with Him? For how long had the woman in Mark 5:25 had a flow of blood? How had she tried to get better (Mark 5:26)? What did she try now (Mark 5:27)? How quickly was she healed when she touched Jesus (Mark 5:28-29)? What did Jesus ask (Mark 5:30)? Why did the disciples think this was a silly question (Mark 5:31)? How did the woman respond (Mark 5:33)? What does Jesus call her (Mark 5:34)? What has happened during this time (Mark 5:35)? What did Jesus say to the synagogue ruler in Mark 5:36? Whom did He bring with Him now in Mark 5:37? What does He say about the girl in Mark 5:39? By the end of Mark 5:40, who is there? What does he call the daughter in Mark 5:41? How old was she (Mark 5:42)? How do they respond? What two things does He command them in Mark 5:43?

What does Jesus offer? Mark 5:21–43 prepares us for the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty-three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus offers to us to be as His own dear children. 

In this passage, we find two daughters. The Holy Spirit gives us the little girl’s age and the length of the woman’s suffering so that we will connect the two. Other than that, the two seem to have little in common. The woman is by herself. She is out of resources. No one seems to care about her. The little girl has parents. Her father is the synagogue ruler. She has her own crowd of people weeping and wailing for her.

But our Savior brings the invisible woman out into the light. He who is full of the Spirit, and knows so much about so many—did He not know who had been healed? Of course He does, but He wants everyone else to know. He wants everyone else to see her with Him. He wants everyone else to hear Him call her daughter.

Then, there’s the opposite in the house. He only takes three of the disciples. He tells the truth that the girl is sleeping (her soul has not departed but is waiting by her body to obey Christ’s command). When people mock, He takes it as an opportunity to retain only Jairus and Mrs. Jairus. He’s not interested in provoking the mob to try to enthrone Him as king. Although He had called the ‘invisible’ woman “daughter,” he calls the little girl “little girl.”

Jesus hid from everyone else what we have an easier time remembering: that He is infinitely glorious! But He put on display what we have a more difficult time accepting: that He is wondrously merciful. To Him, there are no invisible women. To Him, that woman is considered with all the tenderness of a daughter. 

And so are you, dear Christian. You may have no one else. You may have nothing else. You may have tried everything. The Lord Jesus can heal you and cares for you as for a daughter!

From what do you need healing? From whom (Whom!) do you expect the most compassion? How do you seek it?

Sample prayer:  Father, thank You for giving to us Your Son, our Lord Jesus, to love us dearly, and with saving power, as He did the daughter of Jairus and the older “daughter” with the flow of blood. Forgive us for how we put our hope the experts of this world, rather than merely employing them. Truly, this is a recipe for losing all that we have and being no better. And forgive us for when we even trust our own wisdom—like those did who laughed at Christ. What grievous sins these are, against such a powerful and loving Savior. Turn us from such sins we ask, through Him, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP23B “The LORD’s My Shepherd” or TPH492 “How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds”

2026.03 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

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God Honors Faithful Church-Members [Family Worship lesson in 1Chronicles 8]

What third tribe does the Chronicler especially honor? 1Chronicles 8 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these forty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, in addition to royal Judah, and priestly Levi, the Chronicler honored faithful Benjamin. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The passage from 1 Chronicles 8 highlights the faithful continuity of the tribe of Benjamin, emphasizing their unwavering allegiance to Judah and the Davidic line, particularly through their settlement in Jerusalem. While Judah and Levi are also prominently featured for their roles in the royal and priestly offices, Benjamin’s significance lies in their loyalty during the nation’s division, symbolizing steadfast commitment to God’s chosen center of worship. The chronicler uses geography—tracing movements from Geba and Gath to Jerusalem—to underscore this faithfulness, culminating in the statement that these leaders dwelt in Jerusalem, alongside their relatives, affirming their dedication to God’s presence. This genealogical emphasis ultimately points to Christ, the eternal King and High Priest, while affirming that faithfulness in the midst of spiritual decline is honorable before God. The devotional calls believers to remain loyal to Christ and His ordained means of access, even when the broader church strays, honoring the quiet faithfulness of those who cling to Jesus alone.

2026.06.03 Hopewell @Home ▫ 1 Chronicles 8

Read 1 Chronicles 8

Questions from the Scripture text: To whose lineage does this chapter return (1 Chronicles 8:1, cf. 1 Chronicles 7:6)? Through whom (1 Chronicles 8:33) does this particular lineage trace? Upon what sort of men does it focus (1 Chronicles 8:6, 1 Chronicles 8:10, 1 Chronicles 8:13, 1 Chronicles 8:28)? What else is especially noted about this line (1 Chronicles 8:40)? In what location did the ones in 1 Chronicles 8:1-7 dwell? In what locations did the ones in 1 Chronicles 8:8, 1 Chronicles 8:12, 1 Chronicles 8:13 dwell? In what location (1 Chronicles 8:28) did the ones in 1 Chronicles 8:14-28 dwell? And where (1 Chronicles 8:32) did the royal line (1 Chronicles 8:29-40) dwell? 

What third tribe does the Chronicler especially honor? 1 Chronicles 8 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these forty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that, in addition to royal Judah, and priestly Levi, the Chronicler honored faithful Benjamin.  

The Chronicler has focused especially upon royal Judah and priestly Levi. Now, he gives a second, and longer, account of the tribe of Benjamin. If you answered the questions above, you noted that the Chronicler does just trace the genealogy of Benjamin; he traces the geography of Benjamin. The reason for this becomes apparent, when we see where that genealogy ends up, and remains. Jerusalem. The royal and priestly city. The message that he is sending is that the Lord especially honors those among His people who join themselves to His anointed. This is true, most of all, in His great Anointed One, His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. There is great honor in just being a faithful member of the church!

How does your life show allegiance to King Jesus? How does your life show consecration by Priest Jesus?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for giving to us to have Jesus as King and as Priest. And thank You for the example of Benjamin, who joined himself to Judah and Levi. Forgive us for not clinging to Jesus as we should. And forgive us, to whom You have given such a Priest, for how much we fail to draw near to You through Him. So, grant unto us that honorable place of “faithful church member,” as You did for the tribe of Benjamin, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP51B “From My Sins, O Hide Your Face” or TPH456 “Jesus, What a Friend for Sinners”

Half Right and All Wrong [Family Worship lesson in Job 4–5]

What is the danger in being half right? Job 4–5 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these forty-eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we may be half right, yet all wrong. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional explores Eliphaz’s flawed response to Job’s suffering, highlighting how even well-intentioned theological truths can lead to harmful conclusions when divorced from grace and empathy. Though Eliphaz correctly affirms God’s sovereignty, justice, and the reality of human frailty, he misapplies these truths by assuming Job’s suffering is due to hidden sin and moral failure, ignoring Job’s genuine righteousness and the depth of his anguish. Pastor underscores the danger of spiritual pride, the limits of human understanding, and the necessity of humility in both suffering and comforting others. Ultimately, the message calls for trust in God’s incomprehensible wisdom, rejecting simplistic explanations of suffering while embracing the grace that sustains the righteous even in affliction.

2026.06.02 Hopewell @Home ▫ Job 4–5

Read Job 4–5

Questions from the Scripture text: Who speaks in these two chapters (Job 4:1)? What does he accuse Job of trusting in (Job 4:5-6)? What does he conclude to be the truth about Job (Job 4:7-8)? Based upon what, in Job’s circumstances (Job 4:9)? What is he calling Job in Job 4:10-11? What does he claim as the source of his knowledge (Job 4:12-16)? How does he accuse Job of thinking (Job 4:17)? What is his point about the deservedness of what has happened to Job (Job 4:18-21)? What does he say that Job should not expect (Job 5:1)? What sort of man does he say Job must be (Job 5:2-3)? On what basis (Job 5:4-5)? By what reasoning (Job 5:6)? About whom does he assert this to be true (Job 5:7)? What does he assume that Job hasn’t done, and now give him counsel to do (Job 5:8)? What does he suggest that Job can expect if he changes (Job 5:9-11, Job 5:15-26)? What does he suggest that Job can expect if he does not change (Job 5:12-14)?

What is the danger in being half right? Job 4–5 prepares us for the opening part of public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these forty-eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we may be half right, yet all wrong. 

In reply to Job, Eliphaz tells many truths. God is marvelous. And He does raise up the lowly and humble the proud. Eliphaz is half right. But he’s all wrong about Job. 

He accuses Job of trusting in his own godliness (Job 4:6), when Job’s trust is in the Lord, and His provided sacrifice (cf. Job 1:5). He concludes against Job’s innocence, based upon what he has suffered (Job 4:7), accusing him of being a fierce lion (Job 4:10). 

We must watch against the idea that we are privy to special knowledge about others (Job 4:11-16). It sounds spiritual, especially when combined with some truth (Job 4:17-21). 

But Job has not at all thought in the manner accused in Job 4:17; he has humbled himself below God (cf. Job 1:21, Job 2:10). 

Furthermore, Eliphaz accuses Job of being a fool (Job 5:2–3), cruelly claiming to line up Job’s specific calamities (Job 5:4, Job 5:5) with those specifically reserved for fools. He allows for no fruit of grace in Job’s life, on the basis of the (true, but misapplied, here) doctrine of total depravity (Job 5:6-7). 

Having given a wrong explanation, he now offers an incorrect solution: if you just repent, everything will get better (Job 5:8-27). 

Again, there are many truths here: the Lord chastens those whom He loves, and we should be thankful for it when He does (Job 5:17-19); and the Lord does ultimately bless the repentant. But Job has not been unrepentant, and it is not ultimate conditions, but present conditions, that are crushing the man. 

Eliphaz shows us the danger of jumping to conclusions and applying right doctrine in a wrong way. Thankfully, the One Who fully knows us has been kind and compassionate, giving Himself for us and to us.

What painful situation are others in? What conclusion should you resist drawing about them from it?

Sample prayer:  Lord, You alone know our hearts. Don’t let us come to you like Eliphaz, jumping to conclusions from our limited information. Give us to trust in Your marvelous greatness and Your kind compassion. We come to You, confident of mercy, and looking for the help of Your Spirit to uphold us in godliness. Make us to hope in You, like Job, even when others accuse us of exactly the opposite. Glorify Yourself in our lives, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP23B “The Lord’s My Shepherd” or TPH231 “Whate’er My God Ordains Is Right”

Fitting, Faithful, Forbearing Words [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 25:11–15]

What must our speech be like? Proverbs 25:11–15 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our speech should be fitting, faithful, and forbearing. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This devotional draws from Proverbs 25:11–15 to emphasize the transformative power of godly speech, highlighting three essential qualities: fitting words that are appropriate to context and relationship, faithful words marked by truth, sincerity, and integrity, and forbearing words that exercise patience and self-control. It underscores that effective communication is not merely about content but also about timing, humility, and the heart’s posture—whether in giving rebuke, making promises, or addressing authority. Pastor calls for both the skillful use, and the humble reception, of speech, warning against empty boasts and manipulative language, while affirming that only through Christ’s grace can the tongue be truly mastered. The tone is both instructive and pastoral, inviting believers to pursue wisdom, integrity, and self-discipline in their words as a reflection of their spiritual life..

2026.06.01 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 25:11–15

Read Proverbs 25:11–15

Questions from the Scripture text: How is the word in Proverbs 25:11 spoken? How is the word in Proverbs 25:12 received? What sort of messenger does Proverbs 25:13 describe? Whom does he refresh? What other sort of messenger does Proverbs 25:14 describe? What is he like? What two characteristics does the speaker in Proverbs 25:15 have? How does verse 15 describe his power?

What must our speech be like? Proverbs 25:11–15 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our speech should be fitting, faithful, and forbearing.

Fitting speech. It is a truly beautiful thing when someone says the right thing, at the right time, with the right words, in the right way (Proverbs 25:11). We should not be satisfied merely with speech that is accurate. We ought to strive, by grace for speech that is fitting. And we ought to listen in a fitting manner as well—even (especially!) to rebuke. If we receive it as a kindness from God, we will find it to be truly beautiful.

Faithful speech. It is also a great blessing to the sender, when he knows that he doesn’t have to worry at all about the message being delivered, and with the sort of speech from Proverbs 25:11. When there is a message to be sent, there may be some stress about whether it will get there, or get across. But, in the hands of a faithful messenger, the message will be sure, and the sender’s soul will be refreshed (Proverbs 25:13). We wish to be faithful in speech as those sent, ultimately, by the Lord Himself, so that our speech will be always with grace (cf. Colossians 4:5–6). The fool, on the other hand, is all talk; when the substance and follow-through are absent, the situation is worse for his having spoken at all (Proverbs 25:14). 

Forbearing speech. Finally, godly speech will be forbearing. It should be careful, thought-through, and humbly spoken. This is the sort of speech that persuades even rulers. It is much stronger, as with bone-breaking power, than gruff or hasty speech.

How are you working on speaking in a fitting, faithful, and forbearing manner? How do you receive wise rebukes?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for making us to be speaking creatures, and for interacting with us as a speaking God. Thank You that Christ is the eternal Word, as well as our ultimate Prophet. Grant that, in our speech, we would image You as creatures and imitate You as children, by the grace of Christ, through Whom we pray, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside?” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel”