A version of this essay was originally delivered as part of The Arts and Humanities Colloquium at Hope College (Holland, MI). As the Protestant Reformation of the 16th Century began and gained momentum, many of the reformers sensed a need within the new movement: Education. While the theologians understood the new doctrines, the masses did... Continue Reading →
Sermon: Given for you
This morning is the beginning of Holy Week. As we saw earlier with the children waving the palm branches, this week we remember the week that lead to our Lord’s crucifixion. We remember how he entered to shouts of Hosanna and how he wept over Jerusalem. We remember the cleansing of the temple and the... Continue Reading →
Sermon: We Have Seen His Glory
Christmas has been described as the most wonderful time of the year. But for many of us, it can also be the most exhausting and busy time. With travel, presents, and the often immense pressure of the holidays, it can sometimes feel like a season with everything but peace and joy. As the church, we... Continue Reading →
Sermon: Justification by Faith
I invite you to open your Bibles with me to Galatians, chapter 2, beginning in verse 15. Galatians 2, beginning in verse 15. Galatians is in the New Testament - Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians. Galatians 2:15-21. This summer, we have been journeying through Paul’s letter to the churches in Galatia, listen for what the Spirit... Continue Reading →
Sermon: Into Your Hands
I invite you to open your Bibles with me to Luke 23:46. Luke 23, verse 46. Luke is in the New Testament - Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Luke 23, verse 46. We have been listening this Lenten season to Jesus’ words from the cross - the seven statements the gospel record Jesus saying as... Continue Reading →
First Glance: Exodus 20:12
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12) The very first of the ten commandments to deal directly with our relationship with others speaks of honoring those placed by God in authority over you. In particular, the command... Continue Reading →
First Glance: Exodus 20:7
You shall not misuse the name of the Lord, your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name (Exodus 20:7) Q99. What is the aim of the third commandment? A. That we neither blaspheme nor misuse the name of God by cursing, perjury, or unnecessary oaths, nor share in such... Continue Reading →
First Glance: Ephesians 4:17-5:2
He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. (Ephesians 4:28) Q110. What does God forbid in the eighth commandment? A. God forbids not only outright theft and robbery, punishable by law. But in God’s... Continue Reading →
Etz Pri 