Welcome to Hopewell!

2026.10.28 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

2026-10-28T18:14:22.389-05:00

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

2026.10.25 Lord's Day Livestreams (live at 10:10a, 11:10a, and 3p)

2026-10-25T10:08:41.760-05:00

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

Learning Christ [Family Worship lesson in Ephesians 4:20–24]

2026-10-24T00:30:00.000-05:00

How do we change our conduct? Ephesians 4:20–24 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we put on the new man by learning Christ. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional explores the transformative process of sanctification described in Ephesians 4, emphasizing that believers are called to put off the old self and put on the new man created in righteousness and holiness. It reasons that this renewal is not achieved through human effort alone but through hearing and being taught by Christ, Who addresses His church through the preaching of the Word. The central theme is that the truth of Scripture is found in Jesus, and it is through the Spirit’s work in this teaching that believers are united to Christ and conformed to Him. Pastor highlights the importance of viewing the public ministry of the Word as a direct encounter with Christ, rather than merely receiving human instruction. This perspective shifts the focus from personal weakness to the active, ongoing work of Christ in shaping the believer’s thoughts, affections, and will toward glory.

2026.10.24 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 4:20–24

2026-10-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

Read Ephesians 4:20–24

Questions from the Scripture text: What does Ephesians 4:20 say they had done with Christ? Whom had they heard (Ephesians 4:21)? By Whom had they been taught? What is in Jesus? What are they to put off, concerning what (Ephesians 4:22)? What happens to the old man, according to what? How may we be renewed (Ephesians 4:23)? What are we to put on (Ephesians 4:24)? From where did this new man come? In what was he created?

How do we change our conduct? Ephesians 4:20–24 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we put on the new man by learning Christ.

Why is our theological learning from Christ’s Word and Christ’s undershepherds (Ephesians 4:11-12), and our theological maturity and stability (Ephesians 4:13-14), and our theological fellowship and ministry unto one another (Ephesians 4:15-16) such a necessity for the growth of the church in Christ?

Because our growth in Christ and walk with Him is, in large part, a function of the mind.

It is in the futility of their mind that the Gentiles walk (and in which we are no longer to walk), Ephesians 4:17.

Having their understanding darkened is a great harm that has come to them as a result of being alienated from the life of God (Ephesians 4:18a).

Ignorance is what we have from ourselves, apart from Christ.

Blindness is the natural/original condition of the heart.

If these things are not addressed, we will lose the ability to feel shame at what is lustful, or filthy, or covetous (Ephesians 4:19).

Over-against this breakdown of the mind (cf. Romans 1:18, Romans 1:19, Romans 1:20, Romans 1:21, Romans 1:22, Romans 1:25, Romans 1:28), our passage presents:

Christ as someone Whom we “learn” (Ephesians 1:20)

Christ as someone Whom we “hear” (Ephesians 4:21a) by the means He has provided in Ephesians 4:11

Christ as someone by Whom we are “taught” (Ephesians 4:21b)

Christ as someone in Whom all “truth” is based and to Whom all truth connects (Ephesians 4:21c)

So we see the apostle piling up the language of the mind in connection with Jesus. And if it’s a corrupt mind that leads to the conduct of Ephesians 4:19, then we are not surprised that putting off that conduct (Ephesians 4:22) and putting on the new man (Ephesians 4:24) is described in terms of putting off what is according to “deceitful” lusts and putting on that which is in “true” righteousness and holiness.

We are to be renewed in the spirit of our “mind” (Ephesians 4:23).

And the first instruction about our conduct toward one another is:

Put away “lying,” (Ephesians 4:25a) and

Let each one of you speak “truth” with his neighbor (Ephesians 4:25b).

Christian life is preeminently theological life. Christian growth is preeminently theological growth. Are you called to be a rigorous theologian? You are, if you are a Christian!

How are you nurturing your mind in Scripture and doctrine? How is it shaping your conduct?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for giving Jesus to us as the One Whom we hear, and Whom we learn, and in Whom is the truth. Please give us to put off our former conduct and put on the new man, created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP19B “The Lord’s Most Perfect Law” or TPH172 “Speak, O Lord”

Revealing the Intentions of Our Hearts [Family Worship lesson in Jeremiah 2:29–37]

2026-10-23T19:53:33.207-05:00

How does the Lord address and expose our idolatry? Jeremiah 2:29–37 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord addresses and exposes our idolatry through affliction, His Word, tokens of His covenant love, and frustrating our idolatrous efforts. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson)

2026.10.23 Hopewell @Home ▫ Jeremiah 2:29–37

2026-10-23T07:47:47.693-05:00

Read Jeremiah 2:29–37

Questions from the Scripture text: What were Judah attempting to do (Jeremiah 2:29a)? But what does YHWH assert (verse 29b)? What had He done (Jeremiah 2:30a)? With what effect (verse 2:30b)? And what had they also done to whom (verse 2:30c–d)? How had they treated YHWH (Jeremiah 2:31a–c)? What did they refuse to do (verse 31 d–e)? What were they, unthinkably, like ( Jeremiah 2:32)? What did they do instead (Jeremiah 2:33)? What had they plainly done (Jeremiah 2:34)? And what did they still claim (Jeremiah 2:35)? How will the fruit of their current idolatry compare to that of their previous (Jeremiah 2:36-37b)? Why (Jeremiah 2:37c–d)?

How does the Lord address and expose our idolatry? Jeremiah 2:29–37 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these nine verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the Lord addresses and exposes our idolatry through affliction, His Word, tokens of His covenant love, and frustrating our idolatrous efforts.

The courtroom vocabulary in Jeremiah 2:29a indicates that when Judah excused her sin, she was actually prosecuting a case against God. But here, as at the judgment, there is no room for man to speak; YHWH simply renders His verdict (verse 2:29b).

The Lord had done several things to testify against them and bring their idolatry to light. He had afflicted them (Jeremiah 2:30a, cf. Hebrews 12:4–11), but they refused to repent (Jeremiah 2:30b). He sent them His Word, but they murdered the prophets (Jeremiah 2:30-31a). He betrothed them to Himself, and gave them tokens of their covenant, but they refused to come to Him for love (Jeremiah 2:31-32).

Instead, they turned elsewhere for love (Jeremiah 2:33). And they ignored the plain evidence of their murders (Jeremiah 2:34). And assured themselves that their affliction had nothing to do with their sin (Jeremiah 2:35).

The symmetry of the passage emphasizes their blindness and hard-heartedness. To these things, the Lord now adds the ridiculousness of their idolatry’s futility: they had tried this before, and it failed (Jeremiah 2:36), and the Lord will make idolatry fail no matter what (Jeremiah 2:37). Idolatry fails not only because there is no help in it, but because the Lord actively frustrates it!

Dear reader, there are so many things that we are tempted to depend upon, take ultimate delight in, or be devoted to, apart from the Lord. When He sends affliction, let us take it as an opportunity for self-examination. When He sends His Word, let us not reject or resist it, but take it to hear and let it examine us. When He presents to us, again, tokens of His covenant love, let us relish them, and love Him Who first loved us. And, when He frustrates our attempts to depend upon our idols, let us turn back to Him Who alone can help us. Thus, let us avail ourselves of these means by which He keeps us from idolatry!

What sin have you excused or rationalized? What afflictions are you making good use of as an opportunity for self-examination? How has the Lord’s Word addressed your idolatries? What use do you make of the tokens of His covenant love toward you?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for all of the different ways that You address our idolatry. Truly, we are without excuse. Give us, especially, to relish Your tokens of covenant love toward us. And make us to love You, Who have first loved us in Christ, through Whom we ask it, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP119H “My Portion Is the LORD Himself” or TPH244 “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”

Whom(!) You Need [Family Worship lesson in Mark 12:13–37]

2026-10-22T17:43:06.157-05:00

How can we give to God what is God’s? Mark 12:13–37 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we can know, love, and obey God rightly only in Christ, by His grace. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional examines the interactions in Mark 12, moving from questions about civil authority and the nature of the resurrection to the central inquiry regarding the greatest commandment. It reasons that while submission to government and belief in the resurrection are important, the primary theological focus is the scribe's realization that love for God and neighbor surpasses ritual sacrifice. Pastor emphasizes that although the scribe was not far from the kingdom, he lacked the ability to fulfill this on his own, bringing us to our ultimate need: Christ Himself, Who is our perfect righteousness, required for entry into the kingdom.

2026.10.22 Hopewell @Home ▫ Mark 12:13–37

2026-10-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

Read Mark 12:13–37

Questions from the Scripture text: What did the leaders send Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to do (Mark 12:13)? What question do they ask in Mark 12:14? How does Jesus answer in Mark 12:15-17? How do they respond to Him (end of Mark 12:17)? What do the Sadducees say (Mark 12:18)? What crazy question do they have (Mark 12:23)? What two problems does Jesus tell them they have in Mark 12:24? What do we not do in the resurrection (Mark 12:25)? Of whom is God the God (Mark 12:27)? What does that mean about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Mark 12:26)? Who comes to Jesus in Mark 12:28? What does he ask? How does Jesus answer (Mark 12:29-30)? What does Jesus add to the answer in Mark 12:31? How does that scribe respond to Jesus (Mark 12:32-33)? What does Jesus say to the man in Mark 12:34? What did no one dare to do after that?

How can we give to God what is God’s? Mark 12:13–37 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twenty-five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we can know, love, and obey God rightly only in Christ, by His grace.

In this passage, we learn something about government, something about marriage, and something about religion—all because people are trying to trap Jesus.

First, they try to trap Jesus (Mark 12:13) between God and the government (Mark 12:14)—as if He had to choose to honor either one or the other. But, our Lord exposes how ridiculous this is: government exists because God ordained it. There are coins with Caesar’s head on them (Mark 12:15-16), because God has permitted Caesar to reign in the first place (Mark 12:17)! The coin is made in the image of Caesar, but Caesar is made in the image of God, and government exists by the authority of God.

People today make the same mistake as Jesus’s questioners. They set God and government over against each other. Though there may be times when government commands us to disobey God, and then we have to choose obedience to Christ… except for such times, Christians ought to be known as the best citizens in the land. And even in such times, Christians are still the best citizens in the land, because Jesus is King over the nation, and it is the government that is in rebellion.

We know that government didn’t just happen because some people wanted to control other people. We know that it exists by the authority of God as a gift from God. This is also the reason why corrupt government is so offensive—it’s a sin against government’s God-given purpose! So, we should pay our taxes, and submit to the government, as part of our submission to Christ.

Then, we learn something about marriage. The Sadducees’ scenario (Mark 12:18-23) is a doozy. They are truly scoffers of what they don’t understand. And Jesus puts them in their place. Because they weren’t holding to the Bible closely enough, their view of God was way too small (Mark 12:24). They were the “liberal progressives” of their day.

But, it is in Jesus’s response to their question that we definitively learn that there is no marrying in the resurrection (Mark 12:25). We will be like the angels, whose identity is bound up in being “the heavenly host [i.e. ‘army’].” So, too, Christians will be members of one great collective: a church, a temple, a house, a body… A BRIDE! The resurrection is not an occasion for other marriages, but for THE marriage! This is what our covenant God has pledged, as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; so, of course, their souls still lived, and they would be resurrected (Mark 12:26-27).

When we reach the wedding supper of the Lamb, we arrive at the reality to which marriage has always pointed forward. May the Lord give us marriages that point forward to Him, and may we rejoice to think of the day when we shall be presented to Him, unified, as one glorious Bride for Him!

The last question seems to have been a sincere one (Mark 12:28). When Jesus answers not just the greatest commandment (Mark 12:29-30), but the two greatest (Mark 12:31), it seems as if a light goes on in the scribe’s mind (heart) in Mark 12:32-33. He realizes that God doesn’t actually delight in the burning of animal flesh, but in obedience that comes from love (cf. 1 Samuel 15:22)!

Notice, however, Jesus’s statement. He doesn’t tell the man that he is in the kingdom. He tells him that he is not far from the kingdom (Mark 12:34). Why? Because even if we know that what God wants is obedience from love, we still have the problem of being completely unable to do that! The last piece is to recognize that Jesus alone can, or has ever, done this. We must have Him as our righteousness, and only then can we begin to be made like Him.

What are some of your toughest questions for Jesus? What do the Scriptures have to say in answer? Have you asked your dad/elder/pastor what the Bible says?

Sample prayer: Lord, forgive us for when we forget that government is Your institution, to be submitted to as part of our submission to You, in Whose image we have been created. Make us to submit to Jesus as the King over our nation, and to every law that can be obeyed in submission to Him. And, forgive us for how poorly we know the Scriptures, and how little we appreciate the greatness of Your power. We are too much like the Sadducees, who knew neither their Bibles nor Your almighty power. Finally, please forgive us for how much outward religion and obedience we give that does not flow from hearts full of love to You, and to Your image-bearers. We thank You for Christ’s perfect love of You and men. Please count Him as our righteousness, and make us to be like Him, by His Spirit, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP119M “O How I Love Your Law” or TPH173 “Almighty God, Your Word Is Cast”

2026.10.21 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

2026-10-21T18:18:47.191-05:00

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

Getting the Heart of Worship [Family Worship lesson in 1Chronicles 29]

2026-10-21T17:02:21.791-05:00

What is the most important provision we need from the Lord for the work of the church? 1Chronicles 29 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these thirty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the most important provision that we need for serving the church is the provision of a willing heart. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional explores 1 Chronicles 29, highlighting David’s exhortation to the people to offer willingly to the Lord for the construction of the temple. It emphasizes that the true provision for worship lies not in the material resources provided but in the willing heart that God grants to His people, contrasting this divine gift with the inherent evil of the human heart described in Genesis. Pastor connects the post-exilic use of this narrative to the New Testament reality of the church as a spiritual house built by Christ, where believers are transformed by the Holy Spirit to offer spiritual sacrifices. The message encourages believers to rejoice in God’s grace, which enables them to serve with wholehearted devotion, and to submit fully to Christ as the King who builds His temple. This perspective calls for a life of worship and service that is rooted in gratitude for God’s initiative rather than human effort.

2026.10.21 Hopewell @Home ▫ 1 Chronicles 29

2026-10-21T00:00:00.000-05:00

Read 1 Chronicles 29

Questions from the Scripture text: Who spoke to whom in 1 Chronicles 29:1? What did he say about whom? And about the work? What made the work great? How has David prepared (1 Chronicles 29:2)? What things? What has he done to the house of God (v3)? With what result (1 Chronicles 29:3-5)? What challenge does he now give? Who responded in what manner (1 Chronicles 29:6)? With what resultant action (1 Chronicles 29:7-8)? And what resultant affection (1 Chronicles 29:9)? What did David then do to Whom (1 Chronicles 29:10)? Before whom? What did he ascribe to Him (1 Chronicles 29:11)? What belongs to Him? What comes from Him (1 Chronicles 29:12)? What is in His hand (verse 12)? Therefore, how do David and the people respond (1 Chronicles 29:13)? And what does David acknowledge about himself and them (1 Chronicles 29:14-15)? Where did their contributions come from (1 Chronicles 29:16)? What is the most important part of a contribution (1 Chronicles 29:17)? Where does that come from (1 Chronicles 29:18)? For whom does David especially pray this (1 Chronicles 29:19)? What does David then command the assembly to do (1 Chronicles 29:20)? How do they extend this (1 Chronicles 29:21)? And what do they reenact in this context (1 Chronicles 29:22-24)? What is summarized in 1 Chronicles 29:26-27? How long had it been? What concluding and transitional statements does 1 Chronicles 29:28 make? What else can be found where (1 Chronicles 29:29-30)?

What is the most important provision we need from the Lord for the work of the church? 1 Chronicles 29 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these thirty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the most important provision that we need for serving the church is the provision of a willing heart.

In this passage, David proclaims to all Israel how important it is to contribute to the worship and work of the kingdom in this world.

It is not for man, but for YHWH God (1 Chronicles 29:1).

It is something to be done with all one’s might (1 Chronicles 29:2).

It is something that is first done by setting one’s affection upon it, so that he is willing to give what is most precious to him (1 Chronicles 29:3).

On the basis of what the Lord has done in David himself, he proceeds to challenge all the assembly: “who is willing to fill his hand this day for YHWH?”

How about you, dear reader? What is the level of your willingness to fill your hands for the Lord? To fill them with work, to fill them with wealth, to fill them with worship for the Lord?

This is one of the areas in which we are to encourage one another. When the people find that they are able to offer willingly, it makes everyone rejoice (1 Chronicles 29:6-9).

This becomes an occasion upon which David composes a psalm of praise in 1 Chronicles 29:10-15. It is marked by honor: ascribing greatness, power, glory, victory, and majesty to the Lord (1 Chronicles 29:11). It is marked by deference: acknowledging that all things, an their wealth and honor and authority belong to the Lord (1 Chronicles 29:11-12). It is marked by dependence: acknowledging that any power or might or greatness that anyone else has must come from Him (1 Chronicles 29:12). It is marked by gratitude: giving praise by way of thanksgiving (1 Chronicles 29:13). And it is marked by humility: recognizing that there is nothing in us/them to make us worthy to receive any of this (1 Chronicles 29:14-15).

But the greatest gift of the Lord is actually described after the psalm: it is not just the abundance that is from God’s hand (1 Chronicles 29:16), but the upright and willing heart are also from the Lord (1 Chronicles 29:17). Thus, David is emboldened to pray both for the people (1 Chronicles 29:18), and especially his son (1 Chronicles 29:19), that YHWH God would give them, also, loyal hearts toward the Lord.

Here, we learn that the greatest provision for which we pray is a good heart. And, we learn that, when we have had a willing, upright, and loyal heart toward the Lord, this is cause for humble gratitude. For, these things did not come from us!

In their joy over the Lord’s provision, the people pledge themselves , again, under Solomon as king and Zadok as high priest (1 Chronicles 29:21-25), bringing the Davidic portion of the Chronicles material to a close (1 Chronicles 29:26-30). In all of this, we remember that this is forward-looking. It has not been so much about David, as it has been about the Son of David.

So, we rejoice in the reign of the King with the perfect heart, Who is God Himself. And we look to His Spirit, to give us to have hearts like His, by His grace.

With what kind of heart are you participating in the public worship? How are you filling your hand with wealth and work for God in His church? With what kind of heart are you doing so? Over whose willing contributions have you rejoiced?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for giving us Christ as the One Who builds your temple out of living stones. And thank You for making us to be those living stones. Forgive us, for when we have not had willing and eager hearts for Your worship, or for the work of the church, or for giving our wealth. Grant that Your Spirit would cleanse our hearts and make us to be more like Christ, we pray in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP24 “The Earth and the Riches” or TPH274 “Jesus, My Great High Priest”

2026.10.20 Hopewell @Home ▫ Job 22

2026-10-20T07:13:12.282-05:00

Read Job 22

Questions from the Scripture text: Who answers (Job 22:1)? What rhetorical questions does he ask (Job 22:2-3)? What is the implied answer? What does he imply about Job’s behavior in Job 22:4? What point does he make in Job 22:5? But what specific accusations does he make in Job 22:6-7, Job 22:9? What evidence does he suggest for the superiority of the mighty and honorable man (Job 22:8)? And what evidence for Job’s supposed wickedness (Job 22:10-11)? What truth about God does he declare in Job 22:12? But how does he accuse Job of responding to this (Job 22:13-14)? Whom else does Eliphaz say have done this (Job 22:15-16)? What did they do to God (Job 22:17), despite His having done what for them (Job 22:18)? Who have what response when God cuts down such wicked (Job 22:19-20)? What does this imply the “righteous” would do about Job’s suffering? What does Eliphaz tell Job to do (Job 22:21a)? With what promised result (verse 21b)? What does he tell him to do in Job 22:22? By taking what action (Job 22:23)? What does Eliphaz say he would then have (Job 22:24)? With what ultimate pleasure (Job 22:25-26)? And what spiritual ability (Job 22:27-28)? Even in what case (Job 22:29-30)?

How does one come to delight in the Lord? Job 22 looks forward to the opening portion of the public worship of God on the coming Lord’s Day. In these thirty verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that one comes to delight in the Lord, not by works, but by grace.

Ironically, Eliphaz makes the true point that God needs nothing from men (Job 22:1-3). So, how can the friends’ message of “earn blessing by doing better” be true, if man can do nothing for God? Eliphaz is actually wrong about his implied question in Job 22:3a. The Almighty does take pleasure in Job’s righteousness. We saw that in Job 1:8 and Job 2:3. And the reason that He takes pleasure in it, as we know from Scripture as a whole, is because it is God’s grace that has produced this righteousness. God’s pleasure is not only in the righteousness, but especially in His own grace that has produced it.

Sadly, Eliphaz concludes, from Job’s suffering, that God has no pleasure in Job (Job 22:4-5). The specific accusations in Job 22:6-7 and Job 22:9 are desperately wicked, despising the image of God in men. Job is exactly opposite this (cf. Job 29:12–13). Eliphaz accuses Job of thinking that he can get away with evil because he thinks God is not paying attention (Job 22:12-14), and warns that those who have done so in the past (Job 22:15-18) have perished, to the delight of the righteous (Job 22:19-20).

So, one more time, Eliphaz suggests that Job return to the Almighty by rejecting iniquity (Job 22:21-23), in order to get material (Job 22:24) and spiritual (Job 22:25-26) blessing, and become the sort of person whose prayers God hears (Job 22:27-29), even when he prays for the wicked (Job 22:30).

This is actually true (cf. Job 42:7–8)! But if Eliphaz actually believed that he himself is righteous, and that the righteous can do this, why didn’t he just pray for Job?

Oh, let us be careful about drawing conclusions about others based upon difficult providences coming upon them! Many a Pharisee probably thought his opinions about Christ were confirmed at the cross, but he couldn’t have been more wrong.

God does delight in the grace-produced righteousness of His saints, even when His mysterious providence includes much suffering for them. Let us not be “Eliphazes” who merely talk about having the Almighty as our delight, but let us be “Jobs” who actually persist in faith to have Him as our delight, until He graciously hears us and brings us into the experience of that joy.

What Christians do you know who have suffered much? What conclusions should you be careful not to draw about this? What righteousness is there in your own character and conduct? Why would/does God actually delight in this righteousness? For what blatantly wicked people are you praying?

Sample prayer: Lord, how merciful and gracious You are to us sinners, for indeed our wickedness is great, and apart from Christ, our iniquity is without end. But, Your grace brings us to repentance and faith, and makes us more and more holy like Christ. We are amazed that You do take pleasure when we are righteous, because it is Your grace which produces it, and You delight in that grace. Grant that You, the Almighty, would be our delight! Lift up our faces to You. Give us to make our prayer to You, and hear us. And make Your light shine on our ways, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP73C “Yet Constantly, I Am with You” or TPH433 “Amazing Grace!”

Loving Men in Light of the Lord [Children's Catechism 75—Theology Simply Explained]

2026-10-19T17:00:10.113-05:00

Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 75—especially explaining how the last six commandments apply the knowledge and love of God to how we love ourselves and others.

Q75. What do the last six commandments teach? Our duty to our fellow men. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This lesson explores the theological foundation of the last six commandments, identifying them as a summary of humanity's duty to fellow men. It clarifies that these commandments are not merely social rules but are rooted in the reality that all people are created in the image of God. The teaching corrects the modern notion of self-love as self-indulgence, arguing instead that proper self-regard and neighborly love are derived from, and defined by, God's law. By examining specific commandments regarding authority, life, marriage, property, truth, and desire, the lesson demonstrates how interacting with others is fundamentally an act of interacting with God. The central message emphasizes that our conduct toward neighbors is a direct reflection of our understanding of God's character and our own identity as His image-bearers.

Training the Heart [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 29:1–15]

2026-10-19T16:45:27.067-05:00

Why are the Rod and Reproof so necessary? Proverbs 29:1–15 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the rod and reproof are means that God uses to conform a child to Christ. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional explores the divine purpose behind parental discipline, explaining that the combination of verbal rebuke and physical correction is essential for training a child to receive God's Word. It contrasts the tragic trajectory of a child left to himself, who hardens his heart and harms self and others, with the wisdom cultivated through consistent, loving correction. The text emphasizes that this discipline is not an end in itself but serves the rebuke, which is a means of grace by which Christ brings the child to repentance and faith in Himself. The message urges parents to trust in God's sovereignty to use these instruments for the spiritual formation of their children, lest they end up in themselves rather than in Christ and like Christ.

2026.10.19 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 29:1–15

2026-10-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

Read Proverbs 29:1–15

Questions from the Scripture text: What does the person in Proverbs 29:1 do often? What will happen to him? How quickly? How surely? What two situations does Proverbs 29:2 contrast? What does the son in Proverbs 29:3a love? With what result? What does the son in verse 3b do? How does a king establish the land (Proverbs 29:4)? Who does the opposite? What does the man in Proverbs 29:5 do? With what result? What happens to the evil man, in what way (Proverbs 29:6a)? What does the righteous man do instead (verse 6b)? Whose cause does the righteous consider (Proverbs 29:7)? Who does not understand this? What do scoffers do (Proverbs 29:8)? Who else does what else? What is the situation in Proverbs 29:9? What are the two possible responses, but the one certain outcome? Whom do the bloodthirsty hate (Proverbs 29:10)? But who seeks his soul? What contrast is presented in Proverbs 29:11? What does the ruler in Proverbs 29:12 do? With what result? Who have what in common (Proverbs 29:13)? What does the king in Proverbs 29:14 do? With what result? What two things give wisdom (Proverbs 29:15)? What other option is there with a child? With what result?

Why are the Rod and Reproof so necessary? Proverbs 29:1–15 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these fifteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the rod and reproof are means that God uses to conform a child to Christ.

The rebuke is necessary (Proverbs 29:15) as a means by which God gives wisdom. But what if a child hardens his neck (Proverbs 29:1)? The one who hardens against rebuke is in great danger. He is on the path to sudden, irremediable destruction (verse 1b), and if he somehow makes it into authority, others will suffer too (Proverbs 29:2).

How will this unrestrained child end up? Lusting for harlots, instead of loving wisdom (Proverbs 29:3). Acting in mercenary interest instead of justice (Proverbs 29:4). Flattering his neighbor in a way that ends up harming him too (Proverbs 29:5). Harming himself in his own sin (Proverbs 29:6). Ignorant of the value of God’s image in others (Proverbs 29:7). The sort of man who inflames conflicts instead of defusing them (Proverbs 29:8). One who is either a rager, or a mocker, but never peaceful (Proverbs 29:9). Hating those who aren’t wicked like he is (Proverbs 29:10). Venting all his feelings, and lacking self-control (Proverbs 29:11). Willing to lie, in a way that corrupts those around him (Proverbs 29:12).

Of these disastrous consequences of the undisciplined, unchastised child, the worst is apparently the ignorance of God’s image in others (Proverbs 29:7). Proverbs 29:13-14 return to this theme, reminding us that to despise God’s image is to despise God Himself (Proverbs 29:13), which is exactly the opposite of what Christ is like (Proverbs 29:14). The point of employing the rod and rebuke as means of God’s grace (cf. Proverbs 23:13–14) is the conforming of the child to Christ! He is the forever-King Who judges the poor with truth, because He treasures God and His image-bearers.

How are you at receiving rebukes? How are your children at receiving them? When you have experienced hardness to rebuke, how have you employed the rod? Whom are you trusting to make it effective? To what end?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank you for giving Your Son, our lord Jesus, to be the King Who judges the poor with truth, and Whose throne will be established forever. By His grace, make us to be parents such as You are in Your Fatherhood, and make us to be children who heed rebukes. Thus, make us to be those who love wisdom, make people rejoice, care for God’s image in others, diffuse conflict, and have self-control. Thus do for us, and our children, by the grace of Christ, we ask, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP24 “The Earth and the Riches” or TPH100B “All People That on Earth Do Dwell”

2026.10.18 Lord's Day Livestreams (live at 10:10a, 11:10a, and 3p)

2026-10-18T10:04:21.720-05:00

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

2026.10.15 Hopewell @Home ▫ Mark 11:27–12:12

2026-10-15T13:40:34.093-05:00

Thursday, October 15, 2026 ▫ Read Mark 11:27–12:12

Questions from the Scripture text: To where did they come again in v27? Where was Jesus walking? Who came to Him? What did they ask Him (v28)? What did Jesus tell them they would have to do if they wanted Him to answer them (v29)? What does He ask them (v30)? Why didn’t they want to say “from heaven” (v31)? Why didn’t they want to say “from men” (v32)? So, what do they answer (v33)? And what does Jesus say? In what did Jesus then begin to speak to them (12:1)? What is this parable about? Where does the owner of the vineyard go? What does he do at vintage-time, when there should be grapes ready (v2)? What do they do to the servant (v3)? What do they do with the second servant (v4)? And the third (v5)? How many sons did the owner have (v6)? What did the vinedressers say among themselves in v7? What do they do to the son (v8)? What does Jesus say that the owner will do in v9? What Scripture quote does He say in v10-11? About whom did the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders know that Jesus had spoken this parable?

Who is in control of the cross? Mark 11:27–12:12 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these nineteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is in total control, as He goes to the cross.

In this serial reading, we are starting to feel the buildup of pressure that leads to the cross. The chief priests, the scribes, and the elders have all joined forces now (Mk 11:27). The scribes and the elders were very hostile to Rome, while the chief priests were very friendly to Rome, who had permitted them to continue operating the temple. The others saw the priests as sellouts.

But, these enemies can finally agree on something: they hate Jesus and want to destroy Him. When they come and ask the question about authority (Mk 11:28), it is a catch-22 for Jesus.

If Jesus claims a divine authority to act against the temple order, as currently backed by Rome, the Romans would see it as a crime of rebellion against Rome, and punishable by death.

If Jesus somehow claimed Roman authority for his actions, then the scribe/elder party would consider His selling out to be on the level of blasphemy for desecrating the temple, and they would execute Jesus for that.

In the end, this was, indeed, the charge that they were trying to line up (false!) testimony to prove: that Jesus had spoken against the temple (cf. Mk 14:58). But Jesus confessed Himself to be the Son of God (cf. Mk 14:61–62), and so they based the blasphemy charges upon that instead (cf. Mk 14:63–64).

In the parable, Jesus exposes just how bad this really is. They know that He is from God (Mk 12:6–7). The very thing that they are trying to get Him to admit is that God has invested Him with His own authority to give God the fruit that God has always sought from Israel.

They know that He is from God, and they want to destroy Him anyway. But notice which one is afraid, and which One is in control here. They come to trap Jesus with a question, and He traps them with one instead (Mk 11:29–33). They are out to destroy Jesus, but Jesus is not the One who is afraid. Rather, twice it says that they are afraid of the people/multitude (Mk 11:32, 12:12).

Jesus is in control, and that’s super-important.

It means that the cross was not some tragic miscalculation or accident. The cross was not the Jews or the Romans or even the Devil overpowering Jesus.

The cross was Jesus, intentionally, in total control, laying down His life for His people.

It is so important, dear reader, that you see how powerful and in-control Jesus is, as He goes to the cross. Behold Him who laid down His life for sinners!

When have you felt out of control? Who is really in control of that? What else has He done for you, of which He was in complete control? What does this mean He is doing now?

Sample prayer: Lord, forgive us for how forgetful we are of how intentionally Jesus went to the cross. Give us to remember His authority and His intentionality as He laid down His life for us. Our loving too little is a result of failing to dwell upon how much He has loved us, and how much He has forgiven us. Grant that we would love Him because He first loved us. Grant that we would love much, because we have been forgiven much. And grant that we would trust Him as the One Who is sovereign over all things—even over His own death on the cross, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP118D “Now Open Wide the Gates” or TPH404 “The Church’s One Foundation”

2026.10.14 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

2026-10-14T18:24:11.619-05:00

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

2026.10.11 Lord's Day Livestreams (live at 10:10a, 11:10a, and 3p)

2026-10-11T10:08:00.000-05:00

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

2026.10.03 Hopewell @Home ▫ Ephesians 4:14

2026-10-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

Read Ephesians 4:14

Questions from the Scripture text: What is the ministry of our pastor-teacher given to us by Jesus to stop us from being? Otherwise, what would various ‘winds’ of doctrine do to us? What else would do this to us? What do some men practice to unsettle believers’ doctrine?

What do believers need if they are going to be united, Christ-like, and Christ-filled? Ephesians 4:14 prepares us for the morning sermon in public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that believers need theological stability.

This week’s text is one little verse, but it is a hugely important and overlooked point.

We desperately need theological stability.

We want to be united! We want to know Christ! We want to be filled with Christ!

These are the praiseworthy goals of Ephesians 4:13, at which each of us aim in our ministry to all the others (Ephesians 4:12b).

And, for this, we need the constant mending by the ministry of faithful shepherd-teachers (Ephesians 4:11-12a).

But why do we need this constant mending?

Because without it, we are like unstable toddlers.

We’ve all seen a wobbly little one, just learning to walk. But the wobbler in this picture has an additional problem: he’s in a boat, on a wavy sea, during a storm!

This is how the apostle likened the doctrinal instability of believers who did not avail themselves of the ministry of faithful shepherd-teachers.

And things have certainly not improved in the 21st century!

Biblically genuine Christian unity comes by way of theologically stability. Christ-like Christians are theologically stable. Christ-filled Christians are theologically stable. That’s how Ephesians 4:14 is explaining the Ephesians 4:13 fruit of a Ephesians 4:11-12 ministry.

Theological stability is a priority of the Holy Spirit, in the New Testament, that is rejected and contradicted by many in the church today. But, when the Holy Spirit, and many in the church today, are at odds, a believer knows with whom to agree.

What are some ways in which you have been theologically unstable in the past? What has the Lord provided, in order to remedy that? How are you making use of His provision? How have you seen unity, Christ-likeness, or Christ-filledness come from this theological stability? How would you like to?

Sample prayer: Lord, keep us from being unstable children in doctrine. Don’t let us be tossed to and fro, or carried about. Make us those who prize theological stability, and give us that stability by Your Spirit’s use of the means that You have provided, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP78B “O Come, My People” or TPH409 “Blest Be the Tie That Binds”

2026.10.02 Hopewell @Home ▫ Jeremiah 2:1–13

2026-10-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

Read Jeremiah 2:1–13

Questions from the Scripture text: What came to Jeremiah (Jeremiah 2:1)? To whom was he to go speak (Jeremiah 2:2)? What did YHWH remember? What was Israel at that time (Jeremiah 2:3)? Whom does YHWH condemn? But now whom does YHWH summon to listen (Jeremiah 2:4)? What have who done (Jeremiah 2:5)? What haven’t they done (Jeremiah 2:6)? What had the Lord done for them (Jeremiah 2:7)? Who failed to inquire of the Lord (Jeremiah 2:8a)? What didn’t the handlers of the law do (verse 8b)? Who else sinned in what way (verse 8c)? And who else, in what other way (verse 8d–e)? What, then, is YHWH doing against whom (Jeremiah 2:9)? What have other nations not done with whom (Jeremiah 2:10-11b)? But who have done so with Whom (Jeremiah 2:11c–d)? Who are called to witness with astonishment (Jeremiah 2:12)? Whom/what have the people evilly forsaken (Jeremiah 2:13a–b)? And what have the people evilly done for themselves (verse 13c)?

What should we think of idolatry? Jeremiah 2:1–13 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these thirteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that idolatry is offensive, ungrateful, and irrational.

What YHWH remembers, Jeremiah 2:1-3. The Lord does all things out of love for His people. He remembers His covenant with them, and His consecrating them as holy to Himself. Anyone who gets in the way of this is doomed.

The offense of idolatry, Jeremiah 2:4-6. The offense isn’t just that they followed idols. It’s that they did not seek YHWH to follow Him. They did not treat Him as God. And as their God.

The ingratitude of idolatry, Jeremiah 2:7. After what the Lord had brought them out of (Jeremiah 2:6), and into (Jeremiah 2:7), it is irrational and ungrateful that they would fail to continue seeking Him. Now, consider out of what He has brought you, and into what He has brought you.

The responsibility of idolatry, Jeremiah 2:8. There are four groups (three, if the second is a subcategory of the priests) whose responsibility it was to lead the people in seeking the Lord: the priests, teachers of the law (literally those who lay hold of it), the rulers, and the prophets. The most important thing for any one of these is that he himself seek the Lord, be faithful to Him, and obey Him. What sorts of leaders do you have? What sort of leader would you be? The most important think is to seek the Lord, be faithful to Him, and obey Him.

The irrationality of idolatry, Jeremiah 2:9-13. It is a testimony to the insanity of wickedness (Jeremiah 2:10) that men cling zealously to idols that they create (Jeremiah 2:11a–b), but easily part with the living God Himself (verse 11c–d). It is like trying to slake one’s thirst with the slime on the bottom of a cistern that cannot actually hold the water (Jeremiah 2:13c), when one has access to a fountain of water that is better than one could imagine (verse 13a–b). But this is what we do, when we find our identity, our strength, our purpose, or our joy, in anything apart from the Lord Himself. God save us from idolatry!

How are you seeking the Lord, to follow after Him? From out of what has the Lord brought you? And into what has the Lord brought you? What sorts of leaders do you have? What sort of leader would you be? In what do you find your identity, your strength, your purpose, your joy?

Sample prayer: Lord, how offensive, ungrateful, and irrational our idolatry is! Have mercy upon us. Forgive us for it, and turn us from it, and make us to see the greatness of Your love for us, and the goodness of Your life for us. Make us to come to You as the fountain of living waters in Christ, through Whom we ask it, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP119H “My Portion Is the LORD Himself” or TPH244 “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”

2026.10.02 Hopewell @Home ▫ Jeremiah 2:1–13

2026-10-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

Read Jeremiah 2:1–13

Questions from the Scripture text: What came to Jeremiah (Jeremiah 2:1)? To whom was he to go speak (Jeremiah 2:2)? What did YHWH remember? What was Israel at that time (Jeremiah 2:3)? Whom does YHWH condemn? But now whom does YHWH summon to listen (Jeremiah 2:4)? What have who done (Jeremiah 2:5)? What haven’t they done (Jeremiah 2:6)? What had the Lord done for them (Jeremiah 2:7)? Who failed to inquire of the Lord (Jeremiah 2:8a)? What didn’t the handlers of the law do (verse 8b)? Who else sinned in what way (verse 8c)? And who else, in what other way (verse 8d–e)? What, then, is YHWH doing against whom (Jeremiah 2:9)? What have other nations not done with whom (Jeremiah 2:10-11b)? But who have done so with Whom (Jeremiah 2:11c–d)? Who are called to witness with astonishment (Jeremiah 2:12)? Whom/what have the people evilly forsaken (Jeremiah 2:13a–b)? And what have the people evilly done for themselves (verse 13c)?

The offense of idolatry, Jeremiah 2:4-6. The offense isn’t just that they followed idols. It’s that they did not seek YHWH to follow Him. They did not treat Him as God. And as their God.

The irrationality of idolatry, Jeremiah 2:9-13. It is a testimony to the insanity of wickedness (Jeremiah 2:10) that men cling zealously to idols that they create (Jeremiah 2:11–b), but easily part with the living God Himself (verse 11c–d). It is like trying to slake one’s thirst with the slime on the bottom of a cistern that cannot actually hold the water (Jeremiah 2:13c), when one has access to a fountain of water that is better than one could imagine (verse 13a–b). But this is what we do, when we find our identity, our strength, our purpose, or our joy, in anything apart from the Lord Himself. God save us from idolatry!

How are you seeking the Lord, to follow after Him? From out of what has the Lord brought you? And into what has the Lord brought you? What sorts of leaders do you have? What sort of leader would you be? In what do you find your identity, your strength, your purpose, your joy?

Suggested songs: ARP119H “My Portion Is the LORD Himself” or TPH244 “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”

That We May See the King [Family Worship lesson in Mark 10:46–11:11]

2026-10-01T18:04:32.873-05:00

Who is Jesus? Mark 10:46–11:11 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eighteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is the Son of Man, the forever-King, the Son of David. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This devotional explores the dual narrative of Mark 10:46-11:11, contrasting the spiritual sight of blind Bartimaeus with the physical sight but spiritual blindness of the surrounding crowd. The central message emphasizes that true faith involves recognizing Jesus as the Son of David and the eternal King, rather than merely participating in a frenzy of praise without understanding. By drawing parallels to Job’s insistence upon beholding Christ, Pastor illustrates genuine repentance and trust in Christ’s power and mercy. The passage culminates in Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, where He is presented not just as a political figure, but as the King, Who is the ultimate Temple and Ransom for many. The sermon concludes with a pastoral exhortation to seek the sight and life that only Christ provides, urging believers to see Him, and follow Him, as their Savior and King.

2026.10.01 Hopewell @Home ▫ Mark 10:46–11:11

2026-10-01T16:53:49.916-05:00

Read Mark 10:46–11:11

Questions from the Scripture text: Where had they come, and from where were they now leaving (Mark 10:46)? Who was with Him? What was blind Bartimaeus doing? Whom did he hear was going by (Mark 10:47)? What did he call Jesus? What did he ask Jesus to do? What did people warn him to do (Mark 10:48)? How did he respond? What did Jesus do when He heard Bartimaeus (Mark 10:49)? What did Jesus ask him in Mark 10:51? What did Bartimaeus say? What does Jesus say made him well? Where had Jesus commanded him to go? Where does he go instead? When they reach the Mount of Olives, what does He send two disciples to get (Mark 11:1-6)? What do the disciples do to the colt for Jesus to sit on (Mark 11:7)? What do the people do with their clothes and the branches for Jesus to ride on (Mark 11:8)? What did the people cry out in Mark 11:9-10? What does Jesus do at the temple in Mark 11:11? Where does He then go and why?

Who is Jesus? Mark 10:46–11:11 looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word, publicly read, in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eighteen verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Jesus is the Son of Man, the Son of David, the forever-King.

In this week’s passage, if we pay careful attention, we will notice the way of salvation: faith in Jesus Christ as the promised forever-King. Last week’s passage had ended with “The Son of Man… came to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Now, in Mark 10:52, Jesus literally says, “Your faith has saved you,” and then in Mark 11:9-10 the people are crying “Hosanna!,” which literally means “O, save!”

But it is not just the truth of salvation that draws these passages together. They are also held together by the truth about how that salvation comes.

The son of Timaeus is interested in someone else’s parentage. He doesn’t refer to Jesus as Teacher or even Lord, but as “Son of David” (Mark 10:47, Mark 10:48). He recognizes that Jesus is that forever-King promised to David in 2 Samuel 7. When Jesus heals him and tells him to go his own way (Mark 10:52a), there is only one way that Bartimaeus wishes to go: whichever way Jesus, his forever-King, leads (verse 52b).

Then, in chapter 11, it is obvious that the people are treating Jesus as a King. The implication in the colt hunt is that there are people who now recognize that everything in the kingdom ought to be at the King’s disposal (Mark 11:3). The disciples consider Jesus too royal to ride bare upon an animal’s back (Mark 11:7). The people consider Jesus too royal for His steed’s hooves to touch the bare ground (Mark 11:8).

Why all this kingly treatment? Mark 11:10 explains, “Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that comes in the name of the Lord!” Here again is the recognition that this is the forever-King of 2 Samuel 7, Psalm 72, Psalm 2, etc.

I wonder, dear reader, if you are responding to Jesus as King? Surely, the first step is to believe in Him with similar faith to that which saved Bartimaeus. But are we going wherever He leads? Is His wish our command? Do we treat Him as royalty, offering that honor and homage and worship that is due unto Him? Is He our KING?!

Have you believed in Jesus as God, Savior, and King? How are you following in His path? How are you treating Him as royalty?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for giving Your Son to be the Son of Man, the King from the line of David to Whom all glory belongs. Give us to trust in Him, follow Him, and praise Him as our King, with the whole of our lives, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP72C “May Waving Grain on Hilltops Thrive” or TPH374 “All Hail the Pow’r of Jesus’s Name”

2026.09.30 Midweek Meeting Livestream (live at 6:30p)

2026-09-30T18:12:49.251-05:00

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