Edgerton First Reformed: An Evangelical Presbyterian Church

April 21 Sermon: Wake Up

April 21, 2024 18:13 - 26 minutes - 23.9 MB

This week, we look at Revelation 3:1-6 and explore the dangers of spiritual complacency and the importance of maintaining a genuine faith. In this passage see how external appearances can be deceiving, emphasizing the need for believers to wake up, remember foundational teachings, and pursue continual spiritual growth. Consider these questions as we look at Revelation 3:1-6: 1. How does the admonition to the church in Sardis to "wake up" and strengthen what remains apply to our personal s...

April 14 Sermon: Hold Fast

April 14, 2024 16:37 - 31 minutes - 29.1 MB

This week, we look into the message to Thyatira in Revelation 2:18-29. Delve into themes of holiness, the dangers of compromising faith, and the rewards of faithful endurance. Understand the call of Jesus against false teachings and the profound importance of remaining steadfast in our spiritual commitments. Tune in as we contemplate how these ancient lessons apply to our modern faith journeys. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 2:18-29: 1. How do...

April 7 Sermon: Repent

April 07, 2024 16:39 - 27 minutes - 25 MB

This week, we delve into Revelation 2:12-17, focusing on the church in Pergamum's call to maintain a faithful witness amidst persecution. We explore the dangers of tolerating false teachings and the consequences of failing to stand firm in faith. Finally, we are reassured of God's divine protection and the eternal rewards for those who overcome, highlighting the importance of repentance and steadfastness in our spiritual journey. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message...

Resurrection Sunday 2024: From Mourning to Mission

April 01, 2024 00:22 - 23 minutes - 21.1 MB

Join us as we examine John’s account of the resurrection and consider the significance of the empty tomb and the pivotal change it brings for the people of God. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from John 20:1-18: 1. How do the emotions and actions of Mary Magdalene and the disciples before recognizing Jesus’ resurrection illustrate the depth of transformation experienced upon realizing the truth of the resurrection? 2. Considering John’s belief but lack of und...

Maundy Thursday 2024: He Gave, They Drank

March 29, 2024 01:43 - 28 minutes - 26.5 MB

This Maundy Thursday, we look at the institution of the Lord’s Supper from the Gospel of Mark. This passage shows Jesus' sovereignty, our need for forgiveness, and the covenant that Jesus established with his people. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Mark 14:12-26: 1. How does Jesus' prediction of His betrayal during the Passover meal contrast with traditional Passover celebrations, and what does this reveal about the new covenant He was instituting? 2. In...

Palm Sunday 2024: Your King Is Coming

March 24, 2024 16:25 - 28 minutes - 25.7 MB

This week, we reflect on Palm Sunday, emphasizing Jesus' triumphal entry as a fulfillment of prophecy, the crowd's response, and Jesus' path to the cross, highlighting the contrast between earthly expectations and His true mission of salvation. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from John 12:12-19: 1. How does the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in Jesus' triumphal entry deepen our understanding of His messianic mission? 2. In what ways did the crowd's exp...

March 17 Sermon: Faithful Unto Death

March 17, 2024 16:45 - 34 minutes - 31.3 MB

This week, we look at Revelation 2:8-11 and explore the resilience of early Christians who embraced persecution, drawing strength from their faith and the promise of eternal life, as exemplified by martyrs like Stephen and Polycarp. Join us as we delve into the spiritual riches and the eternal crown that await those united to Christ. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 2:8-11: 1. How do the church's story in Smyrna and figures like Polycarp exempli...

March 10 Sermon: Return to Your First Love

March 10, 2024 18:56 - 27 minutes - 24.8 MB

This week, we look at Revelation 2:1-7 and reflect on the Ephesian church's commendation for diligence and truthfulness, its critique for abandoning their first love, and the call to repentance. In this passage, we see the importance of maintaining a genuine love for Christ and the continuous need for repentance in our faith journey. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:9-20: 1. How can "chronological snobbery" impact our understanding and appreci...

March 3 Sermon: The Vision of the Son of Man

March 03, 2024 18:47 - 32 minutes - 29.8 MB

As we finish Revelation chapter one, we focus on the vision of Jesus as the Son of Man, a sight so glorious and powerful that words can barely do it justice. Join us as we unpack how these descriptions provide comfort and assurance to believers facing tribulations, reminding us that the sovereignty and majesty of Christ are a source of unwavering confidence. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:9-20: 1. How do the divine encounters, as depicted in...

February 25 Sermon: Freed By His Blood

February 25, 2024 18:41 - 38 minutes - 35.5 MB

Join us as we explore the awe-inspiring supremacy of Jesus in the book of Revelation, where His authority and sovereignty offer unparalleled comfort to believers, particularly in the face of persecution. If you feel daunted by the complexities of Revelation, join us as we unwrap its message of hope and divine justice. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:4-8: 1. How does the message address the theme of divine justice and its implications for beli...

February 18 Sermon: The Revelation of Jesus Christ

February 18, 2024 19:45 - 35 minutes - 32.6 MB

The message for this week explores the Book of Revelation's unveiling of Jesus Christ, emphasizing its divine purpose and origin. Amidst potential confusion, the focus is on Christ's victory, a call to faithful witness, and an urgent proclamation that the time is near. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Revelation 1:1-3: 1. The central theme of victory in the Book of Revelation comes from the focus on Jesus. What implications are there for those facing chall...

February 11 Sermon: Much Given, Much Required

February 11, 2024 23:08 - 28 minutes - 26.2 MB

In this week’s message, we see the imperative of being prepared for Jesus's return. The parable Jesus tells teaches vigilance and the wise use of spiritual gifts. We also see the contrast of faithfulness with unfaithfulness and the need to consider the eternal consequences of our actions. Believers are called to serve God's kingdom diligently as good stewards of what God has blessed us with. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Luke 12:35-48: 1. How do the par...

February 4 Sermon: Added to You

February 04, 2024 20:52 - 28 minutes - 26.2 MB

In our anxiety-filled world, Jesus urges us to trust in God's provision, prioritize His kingdom, and invest in eternal treasures, reminding us that anxiety adds nothing to our lives. Seek the kingdom, and God will provide. Treasure the eternal, for where your heart is, there your treasure will be. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Luke 12:22-34: 1. How has the prevalence of technology and constant connectivity contributed to the rise of anxiety in our socie...

January 28 Sermon: Where is Your Treasure?

January 28, 2024 17:57 - 34 minutes - 31.7 MB

This week’s message discusses the folly of pursuing material wealth and the importance of being 'rich toward God.' The parable of the rich man from Luke 12:13-21 underscores the transient nature of worldly possessions and the necessity of focusing on eternal values. Jesus calls us to forsake covetousness and seek to be rich towards God. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. What key lesson does Jesus teach about wealth and possessions in the parable found in Luk...

January 7 Sermon: Acknowledge

January 07, 2024 17:58 - 22 minutes - 20.5 MB

In this week’s message we see the importance of acknowledging Jesus, facing persecution with the Holy Spirit's strength, and Jesus' advocacy before God, urging believers to boldly live out their faith. 1. The passage emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Jesus before men and the promise that if we do so, Jesus will acknowledge us before the angels of God. How does this message impact your understanding of professing and living out your faith in your daily life? 2. The concept of blasp...

December 31 Sermon: Fear Not

December 31, 2023 17:41 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MB

As the new year beckons, it's time to look inward and consider the words of Jesus in Luke 12:1-7 Do we fear God or do we seek the approval of man? With living to the glory of God in 2024 in view we consider the significance of seeking God’s approval over the fleeting validation of the world around us. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Luke 12:1-7: 1. How does Pastor Mark use the concept of "fear not" in the context of discussing the popularity of Jesus and...

December 24 Sermon: Now Disclosed

December 24, 2023 18:52 - 27 minutes - 25.1 MB

This week, we explore three key themes: Disclosure (Jesus revealing God's story), Depth (the universal reach of the gospel), and Doxology (praising God for His saving work). We see how Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding and living in accordance with God's message. Consider these questions as you listen to this week’s message from Romans 16:25-27: 1. How does the author's experience with puzzles relate to the concept of the disclosure of the Gospel message? 2. What significanc...

December 17 Evening Meditation: On Them Has Light Shone

December 18, 2023 14:49 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MB

As the winter's chill sets in, it can often bring feelings of despair and darkness. Yet, the beacon of the divine light of Christ dispels our gloom. In our evening Candlelight Service meditation, we see this move from darkness to divine light and consider how the light of Christmas calls us to action Consider these questions as you listen to this meditation: 1. How does the imagery of darkness and light in this passage from Isaiah resonate with our human experiences of darkness, both in th...

December 17 Sermon: Hold Fast

December 17, 2023 19:03 - 27 minutes - 25.1 MB

As we look at the Apostle Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, we see the emphasis on living a holy life while awaiting the return of Jesus. Paul encourages rejoicing, prayer, and thanksgiving in all circumstances. He also stresses the Holy Spirit's role in sanctifying believers, leading them to live blameless lives. Paul's assurance of God's faithfulness in completing his good work in believers provides comfort and hope. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: How ca...

December 10 Sermon: What Sort of People Ought You to Be?

December 10, 2023 18:21 - 26 minutes - 24.6 MB

On the second Sunday of Advent, we reflect on impatience in a fast-paced world and contemplate our waiting for the return of Jesus. We dig into 2 Peter 3:8–9, which addresses the delay of Jesus' return, emphasizes God's patience, and calls us to live in purity and readiness for the promised new heaven and new earth. As we delve into Peter's message, we are reminded to consider God's patience as an opportunity for repentance and faithful living each day. Consider these questions as you liste...

December 3 Sermon: Keep Awake

December 03, 2023 18:52 - 25 minutes - 23.8 MB

Advent serves as a time of anticipation, alertness, and assurance as we look forward to the second coming of Jesus. As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ we are called to keep awake and focus on our call to a holy life and prioritize eternal matters over worldly distractions. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. Have you ever experienced a moment where you were caught unaware, perhaps like a last-minute request or obligation? How did that make you feel? 2. How...

November 26 Sermon: Woes

November 26, 2023 18:14 - 27 minutes - 24.8 MB

Join us as we explore Jesus' confrontations with the Pharisees in Luke 11:37-54, illuminating their hypocrisy and the transformative power of authentic faith. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. Reflecting on Pastor Mark’s story of the weeping willow tree, how does the metaphor of outward appearance versus inner authenticity resonate with the broader themes of hypocrisy and genuine faith explored in the text? 2. Jesus confronted the Pharisees for prioritizin...

Thanksgiving 2023: In Your Hearts

November 23, 2023 17:14 - 26 minutes - 24.1 MB

Our thanks to God are more than a forced expression but a heartfelt response rooted in understanding his grace. Praise rooted in gratitude has a unifying power for believers. The call on us as the people of God is to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly, prompting a collective life of thanksgiving and worship. The aim is a symphony of thanks from God's covenant people in response to Christ's mercy. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. How does genuine grat...

November 12 Sermon: That They May See the Light

November 12, 2023 20:55 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MB

Exploring Luke 11:33-36 we consider three key aspects of Christ’s teaching using the imagery of light: the power, preservation, and plentiful nature of light. The Lord Jesus calls his people to reflect his light as they serve him in a dark world. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. How does the imagery of light convey the power and significance of the message of Jesus in the passage? 2. In what ways does Pastor Mark emphasize the idea that the light received ...

November 5 Sermon: The Sign of Jonah

November 05, 2023 20:15 - 27 minutes - 24.9 MB

Dive into the teachings of Jesus in Luke 11:29-32. Discover the gravity of Jesus' message and his call for repentance. We consider the Pharisees' rejection of Jesus' plea, explore our own shortcomings, and gain deeper insights into faith, repentance, and Jesus' teachings. Will we heed Jesus' call and to embrace humility and repentance? Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. What does Pastor Mark convey about the importance of understanding and heeding Jesus' warn...

October 29 Sermon: The Righteousness of God

October 29, 2023 18:29 - 36 minutes - 33.3 MB

As we observe Reformation Sunday we reflect on the Romans 3:19-28. This passage emphasizes the righteousness of God in contrast to human works. The law shows our inability to attain righteousness. Faith in Jesus grants righteousness as a gift. Our response is gratitude, recognizing God's grace. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. What are the three "Rs" used by Pastor Mark to summarize this passage? 2. What role does the concept of the "rigor of the law" pl...

October 15 Sermon: Blessed Are Those Who Hear and Keep

October 15, 2023 17:53 - 27 minutes - 25.3 MB

Join us as we continue our exploration of the Gospel of Luke, focusing on the recurring theme of Jesus's authority. This week’s narrative takes us to a man whose infirmity is spiritual rather than physical, drawing a clear link to our previous discussions on prayer, and God's answers. Listen in as we explore the significance of Jesus's miracles, aiming to deepen our understanding of what Jesus does for his people. Consider these questions as you think about the message this week: 1. How do...

October 8 Sermon: Held by God

October 08, 2023 16:41 - 32 minutes - 29.6 MB

The final week in our series “Understanding Grace” has us looking at the doctrine of the Perseverance of the Saints. We understand that salvation is entirely a work of God, starting with the understanding of Total Depravity and continuing through Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and finally, Perseverance of the Saints. We take a look at how God's hold on believers is unwavering, providing refuge and protection. Consider these questions as you think about the m...

October 1 Sermon: Transformed by the Spirit

October 01, 2023 18:25 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

In week four of our series “Understanding Grace” we look at the doctrine of Irresistible Grace. For those appointed to salvation, the Holy Spirit will work in their life to bring them to faith in Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches us that we are all dead in sin and unable to come to God on our own. However, when the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin and draws us to Christ, we understand the irresistible nature of God’s grace. The doctrine of irresistible grace is a source of great comfort ...

September 24 Sermon: Intentional Atonement

September 24, 2023 17:14 - 32 minutes - 29.5 MB

Join us on this journey as we continue to explore the doctrines of grace in the context of the Reformation and their relevance in our lives today. Listen in as we ponder upon Jesus' purpose, his atonement, and the assurance of salvation it provides. This is week three in our five week series "Understanding Grace" and we look at the doctrine of Limited (or Definite) Atonement. Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me Dwell in the Word Podcast F...

September 17 Sermon: Adopted by God

September 17, 2023 17:05 - 32 minutes - 29.4 MB

Listen in as we unravel the concept of election and its depiction throughout scripture. Understand how God chose the people of Israel, not based on their merit but His unwavering love and faithfulness. Uncover the revelation that election isn't about us or our deeds, but rather about God and His steadfast love. This is week two in our series “Understanding Grace” looking at the teachings of the early 17th-century Synod of Dort in the Netherlands, examining the doctrines of grace which also i...

September 10 Sermon: Fallen Humanity

September 10, 2023 18:00 - 27 minutes - 24.9 MB

As we begin our series “Understanding Grace” we look at the first point of the doctrines of grace and consider Total Depravity. This doctrine emphasizes humanity's inherent sinfulness and our need for divine intervention. This is not a doctrine found in a verse or two here or there but we find it throughout holy scripture and in all of the different genres of literature found in the Bible. Instead of driving us to despair this doctrine causes us to rejoice for the gift of salvation that ha...

September 3 Sermon: The Officers of the Church

September 03, 2023 16:38 - 27 minutes - 24.9 MB

This week we take a look at the first deacons in Acts 6 and then consider the qualifications for officers in the Church. Elders and deacons are servants of Jesus who represent him in the church and the world that he might be glorified for his saving work for his people. Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me Instagram: http://efrc.me/ins...

August 27 Sermon: Well Ordered

August 27, 2023 19:11 - 31 minutes - 28.6 MB

Believers recognize Jesus as the head of the church, uniting diverse people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. Church government, often misunderstood, is an essential part of Christ ruling over his church. In the system of government used in our church a plurality of elders protects and cares for God’s people. This week we look at the delegation of Elders given to Moses in Numbers 11, the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15, and Paul’s charge to the Elders of Ephesus seen in Moses' delegation a...

August 20 Sermon: I Was Glad

August 20, 2023 19:51 - 27 minutes - 24.7 MB

Psalm 122 reflects on the significance of Jerusalem as a place of worship. Just as we have places that are dear to us, the Israelites held Jerusalem in high regard for its temple, a symbol of God's presence and salvation. The Psalmist's joy in approaching Jerusalem for festivals underscores the anticipation and reflection embedded in the journey. This Psalm encourages prayers for Jerusalem's peace and emphasizes the spiritual unity of believers gathered under God's protection. In the new cov...

August 13 Sermon: Not to Us

August 13, 2023 21:19 - 28 minutes - 25.6 MB

In this week's message we consider the distinction between the Creator and His creation as we dig into Psalm 115. Here we see the psalmist emphasizes the worship of Yahweh, the sovereign and distinct God, in contrast to idols made by human hands. The psalm urges trust in the Lord, declaring His blessings for those who fear Him. The choice lies between earthly pursuits and eternal devotion to the powerful, steadfast God who alone deserves praise. Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc....

July 30 Sermon: My Salvation, My God

July 30, 2023 17:41 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MB

In Psalm 42, the psalmist passionately longs for God's presence and worship in Jerusalem. Amidst distress and mockery, he reminds his soul to hope in God, for He is faithful and his salvation. In our affluent world, may we not be consumed by earthly desires, but seek true fulfillment in Christ, the living water. With access to God through Jesus, may we find peace and joy, knowing that He satisfies our deepest longings. Let us testify to His faithfulness, longing for His presence above all el...

July 23 Sermon: Lead Me to the Rock

July 23, 2023 18:46 - 27 minutes - 24.7 MB

This week we reflect on the struggles and desperation we face in life in light of Psalm 61. David, feeling fainthearted, seeks strength and safety in God during trials. He cries out for divine intervention, recognizing God's ever-present hearing. Despite feeling distant, David desires to dwell in God's presence, seeking refuge under His protective wings. The psalm expresses confidence in God's faithfulness and His role as a rock and stronghold. The prayer for the prolonged life of the king a...

July 16 Sermon: Surely

July 16, 2023 19:07 - 31 minutes - 28.5 MB

This week we take a look at Psalm 58. This imprecatory psalm contains difficult imagery of judgment but, in light of Christ, it points us to the truth of salvation in Christ and his coming again to judge the living and the dead. Edgerton First Reformed: http://edgertonfrc.org Pastor Mark Groen: http://markgroen.me Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me Sermon Podcast Feed: http://sermons.efrc.me Instagram: http://efrc.me/insta Facebook: http://efrc.me/facebook You...

July 9 Sermon: Not Even One

July 16, 2023 18:29 - 28 minutes - 26.5 MB

As we consider Psalm 53 we discuss the presence of sin and depravity in the world. This is a theological truth that can be observed everywhere. The doctrine of original sin challenges the idea that the world's problems are solely caused by external factors. In Psalm 53 we see that there is no one righteous, not even one. All of humanity is inherently sinful. Psalm 53 highlights the need for salvation and the impossibility of achieving righteousness on our own. It is not all bad news, the...

June 18 Sermon: I Love the Lord

June 22, 2023 13:38 - 26 minutes - 23.9 MB

This week we consider the affection for the God the Psalmist has in Psalm 116. We see an emphasis that the love for God is connected to His nature and the actions He has taken for His people. The Psalmist expresses their love for God because He has heard their voice and delivered them from a dire situation. The Psalmist understands that God's hearing is an act of mercy and grace. The passage uses vivid language to convey the Psalmist's experience of being surrounded by death and the profoun...

June 11 Sermon: Send Out Your Light

June 11, 2023 20:32 - 28 minutes - 26 MB

Psalm 43 is a prayer written as a desperate cry for deliverance. Psalm 43 is connected to Psalm 42, where the writer of the psalm expresses feelings of intense grief and also feelings of being abandoned by God. In the midst of being overwhelmed by chaos and the mocking of enemies, Psalm 43 shows devotion to God and the important of calling out to him for deliverance. This Psalm serves as a source of comfort and reminds us as believers that we are not alone in our struggles. We can pray this ...

June 4 Sermon: Who Is Like the Lord?

June 04, 2023 17:35 - 27 minutes - 25.4 MB

As we begin our Summer in the Psalms series we take a look at Psalm 113 and explore the significance of praising and worshiping the Triune God and consider the importance of God’s saving work in redeeming humanity. This Psalm of praise highlights the deep significance of praise and a response to God’ sovereignty and glory. As God’s servants we have the privilege of praising him for his majesty and power but also for his redeeming us to be a people for his own possession. May we praise his...

Edgerton First Reformed: An Evangelical Presbyterian Church

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