The Guide for the Week
February 4-10th 2024 AD.
The Fifth Week of Epiphany
Bible Passage for the Week
Proverbs 16:10-20
1 Corinthians 4
1 Samuel 13:1-14
Psalm 110
Verse to Memorize
Deuteronomy 6:4-5
Catechism Questions
Q. 4. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.
People to Pray for:
Church: Christ the King (Evansville)
Pastor Jacob Mentzel
Ministry: Sweetwater Research
Civil Magistrate: Jeffersonville City Council
Dustin White
Notes for Parents:
Proverbs 16:10-20
Vs 16 How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver.
Fathers, how many hours do you work in a week? It is one of your highest duties to provide for your family, right? The Scriptures say that the man who doesn’t provide for his household is worse than an unbeliever. It is important that you take responsibility and work hard to provide the finances that your family needs. But let me ask you again, how extensive are your working hours, and for what purpose?
Beware, for men can misconstrue financial support as their sole obligation. Or some shift focus from basic sustenance to accumulating riches. They hustle to chase the dollar. They work more and more hours and see their family less and less. They tell themselves it is because they are to be a provider, but sometimes that’s not the case. Sometimes it is because they and their family have fallen in love with the world- a craving for the latest luxuries and societal trends.
Sometimes fathers spend all their time on the job so that they don’t have to spend time at home. Competent and confident in their professional realm, they feel inept at home. I had a pastor once describe a man in his church as an alpha male who was beta in his home. He led with vigor and was a top-level talent everywhere but in his home. In his home, he was passive and left leadership to his wife. Many men mirror this pattern.
Scripture enlightens us, "How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver" (Proverbs 16:16). It also instructs, "He who gives attention to the word will find good, And blessed is he who trusts in the Lord" (Proverbs 16:20).
There are things better than chasing money. There is something worth more than your relentless pursuit of loot. More vital than the quest for riches is the pursuit of wisdom, which is gleaned from God's word. It not only mandates men to be providers and diligent workers but also leaders of their families. It instructs men to nurture their children in the Lord's fear and admonition, to love their wives as Christ loves the church, and to serve their brethren in faith.
These responsibilities demand your time and presence, valuing these eternal riches over fleeting material gains.
Therefore, labor with excellence, whether as an employee or employer. Yet, do not let your occupation excuse neglect in other divine callings. Ensure it does not hinder your devotion to the word or leading your family through the word.
1 Corinthians 4
In the first three chapters of his epistle, Paul intentionally minimizes his role as a minister. This strategy addresses the divisions within the Corinthian church, where members were segregating themselves based on their gospel teachers, fostering pride and factionalism. They overlooked a critical truth: their salvation stemmed not from the innate talents of their preachers, but from the gospel's power, fueled by the Holy Spirit. The Church's unity should have been centered on Christ's gospel, not on the apostles or ministers who taught them
However, in chapter 4, the Apostle is finished downplaying his ministry. When unity in the gospel was at stake, he wanted everyone to know that it was the gospel that united them. But he doesn’t want them to then fall into another error and become proud of their own abilities. Paul defends his apostolic office and authority, underscoring its necessity for the gospel's sake. He reminds the Corinthians that God has established distinct roles within the church, urging them to view him and other ministers as Christ’s servants and stewards(men put in charge of managing another’s property) of God’s mysteries. They are the ones God has put in charge of managing and administering the things of God.
What, then, are these "mysteries of God"? Paul frequently uses this term for the gospel's truths and related doctrines. Essentially, these ministers are tasked with preaching the gospel and administering the sacraments – the keys to the Kingdom entrusted to the church and its officers.
Paul confronts the Corinthians' arrogance towards their ministers, using sarcasm as a tool for correction and admonition, like a father to his beloved children. They erroneously perceive themselves as superior to the Apostles, who, in contrast, demonstrate humility, resilience in adversity, and grace under persecution and slander.
The Church of Corinth should not divide themselves in pride based on whom they had heard the gospel from, but they also shouldn’t exalt themselves above those who had ministered to them. They shouldn’t think they are beneath the Apostle Paul. Rather, they should know that he loves them like a father. They should be humble and follow the example of Paul.
Here is the application:
1 Samuel 13:1-14
In the story of King Saul offering a sacrifice himself, rather than waiting for God's appointed servant, we are starkly reminded of the vital importance of patience and obedience in our walk with the Lord. Saul's impulsive act teaches us a profound lesson: the grave danger of overstepping our God-given roles and callings.
Firstly, Saul's error underlines the criticality of waiting on the Lord and being true to our appointed callings. God’s law did not give the King permission to perform the duties of the priests. In the Old Testament there was a separation between the duties of the state and the duties of the church. Both are under God and they often work closely together. This separation is not what we think of in our modern context. The Church and the State both worked to further the glory of God and the good of the people. The State obeys God by punishing evil and protecting what is good. The king however was not to take upon himself the work set apart by God to the priests of which Samuel was one.
In the New Testament Church, the sacraments often called the mysteries of God, are for the officers of the church to administer. The Keys of the Kingdom belong to the Church and not to the state or to the family. Civil government should protect the church and punish criminals. It should punish those who break the ten commandments but it can’t come and interfere in the good work of the Church.
Just as the sacraments, sacred and set apart, are to be administered by the elders of the Word, so too must we recognize and respect the boundaries of our own responsibilities. Each of us have been called to different stations in life. We ought to make sure that we fulfill our duties as God calls. Consider the political realm: While in our country each citizen has a right and a duty to participate in the political process, there lurks a peril in overreaching into realms where God has not placed us, leading to the neglect of the very duties He has entrusted to us. Many young men focus their time on issues outside of their sphere of authority to the neglect of where God calls them. We must not do so.
Secondly, Saul's unauthorized sacrifice points us to a greater truth: that God Himself provides the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. This act wasn't merely about delineating church and state roles; it was a divine illustration that the sacrifices required by God are provided by Him. It is not by our efforts, but through the supreme sacrifice of Christ that we find redemption. Saul's presumption was a failure to understand this cardinal truth.
Lastly, we see the overarching principle that obedience is paramount, surpassing even sacrifice. Saul's error was not just in the act itself, but in the heart that motivated it. God values our obedience above our misguided 'good' intentions. The story of Saul is a clarion call to adhere to God's laws, to trust in His timing and provision, and to walk the path He has laid out for us, not the one we carve for ourselves.
In closing, let us reflect on the words of 1 Samuel 15:22, "Has the Lord as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice." May we embrace this truth, seeking always to align our actions with His will, lest we fall into the trap of Saul – substituting our impulsive will for divine obedience.
Psalm 110
This Psalm could rightly be said to be the favorite Psalm of the Apostles. Out of all the verses, the New Testament quotes from the Old Testament, Psalm 100:1 is the most quoted. The Book of Hebrews gives an extended commentary on the Psalm too. Why is it so often quoted? Because it is a prophecy of Jesus Christ, describing Him as King, Priest, and Judge.
It begins by saying, “The Lord says to my Lord.” Who is this talking about? Jesus asked the Pharisees that question and it tripped them up. The first “Lord” is Yahweh God, and He is speaking to someone that David, the Psalm writer, calls “my Lord.” The Jews wanted to say this was about Solomon, but Jesus makes it clear that David cannot be talking merely about his son. He wouldn’t call Solomon his Lord. This is speaking of the Messiah, David’s Lord. This is then a Psalm looking forward to Jesus and attesting to the fact that Jesus is the divine King.
He will sit at the right hand of God and reign over His enemies and His people. This is a prophecy of Christ’s ascension into heaven after the resurrection. Jesus is now reigning over all of heaven and earth. God, the Father, is putting His enemies under His feet. Jesus reigns, and His people freely give themselves to Him in obedience.
Jesus is not only King, but He is the Priest. Verse 4 says He has made the perfect sacrifice for sin and He lives to intercede for us. Furthermore, Jesus is the great judge. He judges kings and all the nations. The nation that will not serve Him will perish, scripture says in another place. One day, He will destroy all the wicked.
Jesus is unequivocally King, Priest, and Judge.
The pivotal question remains: will you be crushed beneath His feet, or will you, clothed in holiness, eagerly and wholeheartedly love and serve Him?
Catechism Questions:
As part of our goal this year to work on grounding ourselves in our confession of faith, the children will be working through the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Each week during the worship gathering, they will be asked to stand in their pew and recite the catechism question. They will also learn three verses that are connected with that question. On the fourth Sunday of the month, they will be invited to come to the front of the sanctuary during the service to review the previous three weeks' questions. It is our hope that this will be a help not only to the children but also to the whole congregation in reviewing the foundations of our Christian faith.
Q. 4. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.
John 4:24 “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
The difficulty of accurately defining God is because He is one of a kind. There is no one else like God. There is no one that we may accurately compare Him to. This is due in part to the truth that He is spirit and we live in, as the 80’s pop song says, a material world. We are used to dealing with things we can see and touch. In fact, you and I have grown up and been incubated into a materialist worldview. That is, we are tempted to think that the material is all there is, that at the most fundamental level, everything that exists consists of nothing but matter and energy. Even thought we might not voice it this way, we are tempted to think every object is a purely physical object and every event has a purely physical cause.
The Materialist worldview rejects the idea that there are immaterial or spiritual entities, such as souls, angels or God because it rejects out of hand there can be anything that does not have a purely physical cause. In the materialist worldview, science can explain everything in terms of matter and physics. Yet, for all the ways that people throw around the term “science” to be an infallible interpreter of life, science cannot explain all that there is. Scientists doing the scientific method cannot account for science’s own foundation. That is, there are certain things needed to be presumed in order to do science i.e., the existence of a theory-independent, external word, the orderly nature of the external world, the knowability of the external world, the existence of truth, the laws of logic, and the reliability of our cognitive and sensory faculties. You cannot get to those presumptions by only using science.
But we still live in a world where materialism is a dominating worldview, and we are tempted by it. And because of so much of what we deal with is physical, we have a hard time accurately thinking of God. Jesus told us in John 4:24 that God is Spirit. What does that mean?
Alexander Whyte in his commentary on the catechism helpfully describes this
“This word Spirit,—" the profoundest word in human language",— as employed in Scripture and theology bears a figurative or metaphorical sense. The growth of the word is something like this. It first means air, the air that is the atmosphere of the earth, and the breath of all its living creatures. From this it is a short and easy step to become expressive of the life of man, and the life of his soul, as in the cry: "Into Thine hand I commit my spirit." And from that highest earthly use the word has been taken up and consecrated to describe for us the manner of God's own life. "God is Spirit." And this single expression at once does this great service for us, that it removes God's nature far from all association with material and corporal organization. For, as our Lord said: "A spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have."
Now this may make you think about God being like a ghost or a phantom. We might be tempted to think of an ethereal transparent apparition, but this is not what we mean. When the catechism, repeating after Jesus, says that God is spirit, it is teaching us that the Father is not limited by the physical, that he is life-giving and life-sustaining, that he can never be totally comprehended, and that he transcends creation.
He is not like anything else. He is unique. Men are defined by our localization, that is, we are at one particular place at one particular time. Though we do have both a body and spirit, our spirits are tied to our bodies, in this life. We are in one place at one time. God on the other hand is not limited to one place and time. He is not contained. For something to be physical it has a limit or boundary to its being. For example, our bodies extend out to a definite boundary. God is spirit and has no extension or limit. God is everywhere and yet He is at the same time not a part of everywhere. God is not the creation and yet God is present working in His creation.
Let us reject the materialistic worldview that cannot even account for something like the human mind or the laws of logic. Let us also marvel at God who is Spirit and who is infinite (more on that part tomorrow). Reflect on how amazing it is that the God who is so far above the creation is present everywhere. He is on the highest mountain and at the lowest point of the sea. He is present in Washington DC and in Southern Indiana. No matter where you are today, the good news is that He is near.
Prayers
Church of the King and Pastor Jacob Mentzel
Almighty God,
We gather today to lift up Church of the King and their pastor, Jacob Mentzel, in prayer. Lord, we ask for Your hand of strength to be upon this young congregation. Through the Holy Spirit, empower them with wisdom, passion, and an unyielding zeal for Your Word and works. May they grow not just in numbers, but in spiritual depth and understanding, becoming a bold and faithful witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We specifically pray for their efforts in training men for the role of ruling elder. Guide these men as they prepare to undertake this important responsibility. Grant them discernment, godly character, and a deep commitment to shepherd Your people according to Your will.
Strengthen Pastor Mentzel as he leads this flock. May he be a vessel of Your truth, leading with integrity, clarity, and a heart fully devoted to Your service.
In Jesus' name, we pray,
Amen.
Sweetwater Research
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today to intercede for Sweetwater Research, a Christian organization dedicated to providing clean water and spreading Your gospel. Lord, we recognize the critical need for their work in impoverished nations, and we ask for Your provision over their financial needs. May You open the floodgates of heaven to support their noble efforts.
We also pray for the expansion of their research endeavors. Grant them wisdom and guidance to discover new, effective methods to deliver clean water to those in need. Bless their scientists with skill and understanding, and may their training programs flourish, equipping more individuals to carry on this vital work.
In all they do, let the message of Your love and salvation through Jesus Christ be proclaimed clearly and effectively. May their service be a beacon of hope and a testament to Your faithfulness.
In Jesus' name, we pray,
Amen.
Jeffersonville City County Dustin White:
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today to lift up Dustin White, a member of the Jeffersonville City Council and a candidate for a judgeship. Lord, we acknowledge that all authority is established by You and that You call leaders to govern justly and righteously. We pray for Dustin, asking that You would work in his heart, leading him to repentance for any actions or support of policies that are contrary to Your will. Grant him wisdom, discernment, and a heart aligned with Your truth as he serves in public office.
We also pray fervently for his spiritual journey, asking that You would draw Dustin into a deep, saving relationship with Jesus Christ. May he come to know the transforming power of Your love and grace. Guide him to lead with integrity, justice, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of Your Word.
In Jesus' name, we pray,
Amen.
Church History Spotlight
Cornelius the Centurion
4 February
Cornelius the Centurion, as recorded in the Book of Acts, chapters 10 and 11, emerges as a pivotal figure in the New Testament. A centurion, by Roman military structure, commanded a cohort of approximately a hundred soldiers. This rank, denoting both authority and respect, appears variously throughout the New Testament, often casting centurions in a positive light (Matthew 8:5, Luke 7:2; Matthew 27:54, Luke 23:47; Acts 10:1; 22:25; 23:17, 23; 24:23; 27:1). Notably, Cornelius holds the distinction of being the first Gentile convert to Christianity, a monumental event in the history of the early Church. His conversion, along with that of his household, under the ministry of Peter, signaled a groundbreaking expansion of the Gospel, transcending Jewish boundaries to include Gentiles in the promise of salvation.
Residing in Caesarea, the administrative seat of Judea under the rule of Herod and the Romans, Cornelius was stationed in a region ripe for the spread of the nascent Christian faith. Although the Scriptures do not mention him beyond these accounts, his conversion, likely a result of his faith and fear of God, presumably catalyzed the growth of the Christian community in Caesarea. This city later emerges in Acts (8:40; 21:8) as a significant hub for Christian activity, suggesting Cornelius and his family may have played a foundational role in establishing this early Christian community.
Cornelius’s story is more than a historical footnote; it represents a critical juncture in the Church’s mission. The divine intervention in his life, through a vision and the subsequent encounter with Peter, illustrates God's sovereign plan in extending His grace beyond the confines of Jewish tradition. This event, therefore, is not just a conversion of a Roman officer but a strategic move in the divine narrative, paving the way for the Gospel to reach "the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). Cornelius, a man of authority under Rome, becomes an instrument in God's hands, demonstrating that the Kingdom of God is not limited by ethnicity or social status, but is open to all who fear Him and do what is right (Acts 10:34-35, NASB1995).
A prayer of thanksgiving for Cornelius:
O God, who by your Spirit called Cornelius the Centurion to be the first Christian among the Gentiles: Grant to your Church in every nation a ready mind and will to proclaim your love to all who turn to you with unfeigned hope and faith; for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Announcements for the Week
Prayer Concerns:
Proverbs 16:10-20
1 Corinthians 4
1 Samuel 13:1-14
Psalm 110
Verse to Memorize
Deuteronomy 6:4-5
Catechism Questions
Q. 4. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.
People to Pray for:
Church: Christ the King (Evansville)
Pastor Jacob Mentzel
Ministry: Sweetwater Research
Civil Magistrate: Jeffersonville City Council
Dustin White
Notes for Parents:
Proverbs 16:10-20
Vs 16 How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver.
Fathers, how many hours do you work in a week? It is one of your highest duties to provide for your family, right? The Scriptures say that the man who doesn’t provide for his household is worse than an unbeliever. It is important that you take responsibility and work hard to provide the finances that your family needs. But let me ask you again, how extensive are your working hours, and for what purpose?
Beware, for men can misconstrue financial support as their sole obligation. Or some shift focus from basic sustenance to accumulating riches. They hustle to chase the dollar. They work more and more hours and see their family less and less. They tell themselves it is because they are to be a provider, but sometimes that’s not the case. Sometimes it is because they and their family have fallen in love with the world- a craving for the latest luxuries and societal trends.
Sometimes fathers spend all their time on the job so that they don’t have to spend time at home. Competent and confident in their professional realm, they feel inept at home. I had a pastor once describe a man in his church as an alpha male who was beta in his home. He led with vigor and was a top-level talent everywhere but in his home. In his home, he was passive and left leadership to his wife. Many men mirror this pattern.
Scripture enlightens us, "How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver" (Proverbs 16:16). It also instructs, "He who gives attention to the word will find good, And blessed is he who trusts in the Lord" (Proverbs 16:20).
There are things better than chasing money. There is something worth more than your relentless pursuit of loot. More vital than the quest for riches is the pursuit of wisdom, which is gleaned from God's word. It not only mandates men to be providers and diligent workers but also leaders of their families. It instructs men to nurture their children in the Lord's fear and admonition, to love their wives as Christ loves the church, and to serve their brethren in faith.
These responsibilities demand your time and presence, valuing these eternal riches over fleeting material gains.
Therefore, labor with excellence, whether as an employee or employer. Yet, do not let your occupation excuse neglect in other divine callings. Ensure it does not hinder your devotion to the word or leading your family through the word.
1 Corinthians 4
In the first three chapters of his epistle, Paul intentionally minimizes his role as a minister. This strategy addresses the divisions within the Corinthian church, where members were segregating themselves based on their gospel teachers, fostering pride and factionalism. They overlooked a critical truth: their salvation stemmed not from the innate talents of their preachers, but from the gospel's power, fueled by the Holy Spirit. The Church's unity should have been centered on Christ's gospel, not on the apostles or ministers who taught them
However, in chapter 4, the Apostle is finished downplaying his ministry. When unity in the gospel was at stake, he wanted everyone to know that it was the gospel that united them. But he doesn’t want them to then fall into another error and become proud of their own abilities. Paul defends his apostolic office and authority, underscoring its necessity for the gospel's sake. He reminds the Corinthians that God has established distinct roles within the church, urging them to view him and other ministers as Christ’s servants and stewards(men put in charge of managing another’s property) of God’s mysteries. They are the ones God has put in charge of managing and administering the things of God.
What, then, are these "mysteries of God"? Paul frequently uses this term for the gospel's truths and related doctrines. Essentially, these ministers are tasked with preaching the gospel and administering the sacraments – the keys to the Kingdom entrusted to the church and its officers.
Paul confronts the Corinthians' arrogance towards their ministers, using sarcasm as a tool for correction and admonition, like a father to his beloved children. They erroneously perceive themselves as superior to the Apostles, who, in contrast, demonstrate humility, resilience in adversity, and grace under persecution and slander.
The Church of Corinth should not divide themselves in pride based on whom they had heard the gospel from, but they also shouldn’t exalt themselves above those who had ministered to them. They shouldn’t think they are beneath the Apostle Paul. Rather, they should know that he loves them like a father. They should be humble and follow the example of Paul.
Here is the application:
- Our unity lies in Christ, not in the renown of our gospel teachers. God employs various faithful ministers to lead us to Christ. Avoid the trap of celebrity enchantment.
- Respect and submit to the authorities God has appointed – the pastors and elders who shepherd you with dedication and compassion. Embrace humility and follow their virtuous example.
- Understand that the sacraments are not for fathers in the family to administer at their discretion. As rightly stated in the Westminster Confession, they are to be administered by lawfully ordained ministers of the church. Stay tune for a forthcoming video from Pastor Joseph on discerning your children’s readiness for elders' interviews prior to partaking in the Lord’s Supper. It is vital though that you get this right because one two of the marks of a true church depend upon it.
1 Samuel 13:1-14
In the story of King Saul offering a sacrifice himself, rather than waiting for God's appointed servant, we are starkly reminded of the vital importance of patience and obedience in our walk with the Lord. Saul's impulsive act teaches us a profound lesson: the grave danger of overstepping our God-given roles and callings.
Firstly, Saul's error underlines the criticality of waiting on the Lord and being true to our appointed callings. God’s law did not give the King permission to perform the duties of the priests. In the Old Testament there was a separation between the duties of the state and the duties of the church. Both are under God and they often work closely together. This separation is not what we think of in our modern context. The Church and the State both worked to further the glory of God and the good of the people. The State obeys God by punishing evil and protecting what is good. The king however was not to take upon himself the work set apart by God to the priests of which Samuel was one.
In the New Testament Church, the sacraments often called the mysteries of God, are for the officers of the church to administer. The Keys of the Kingdom belong to the Church and not to the state or to the family. Civil government should protect the church and punish criminals. It should punish those who break the ten commandments but it can’t come and interfere in the good work of the Church.
Just as the sacraments, sacred and set apart, are to be administered by the elders of the Word, so too must we recognize and respect the boundaries of our own responsibilities. Each of us have been called to different stations in life. We ought to make sure that we fulfill our duties as God calls. Consider the political realm: While in our country each citizen has a right and a duty to participate in the political process, there lurks a peril in overreaching into realms where God has not placed us, leading to the neglect of the very duties He has entrusted to us. Many young men focus their time on issues outside of their sphere of authority to the neglect of where God calls them. We must not do so.
Secondly, Saul's unauthorized sacrifice points us to a greater truth: that God Himself provides the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. This act wasn't merely about delineating church and state roles; it was a divine illustration that the sacrifices required by God are provided by Him. It is not by our efforts, but through the supreme sacrifice of Christ that we find redemption. Saul's presumption was a failure to understand this cardinal truth.
Lastly, we see the overarching principle that obedience is paramount, surpassing even sacrifice. Saul's error was not just in the act itself, but in the heart that motivated it. God values our obedience above our misguided 'good' intentions. The story of Saul is a clarion call to adhere to God's laws, to trust in His timing and provision, and to walk the path He has laid out for us, not the one we carve for ourselves.
In closing, let us reflect on the words of 1 Samuel 15:22, "Has the Lord as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice." May we embrace this truth, seeking always to align our actions with His will, lest we fall into the trap of Saul – substituting our impulsive will for divine obedience.
Psalm 110
This Psalm could rightly be said to be the favorite Psalm of the Apostles. Out of all the verses, the New Testament quotes from the Old Testament, Psalm 100:1 is the most quoted. The Book of Hebrews gives an extended commentary on the Psalm too. Why is it so often quoted? Because it is a prophecy of Jesus Christ, describing Him as King, Priest, and Judge.
It begins by saying, “The Lord says to my Lord.” Who is this talking about? Jesus asked the Pharisees that question and it tripped them up. The first “Lord” is Yahweh God, and He is speaking to someone that David, the Psalm writer, calls “my Lord.” The Jews wanted to say this was about Solomon, but Jesus makes it clear that David cannot be talking merely about his son. He wouldn’t call Solomon his Lord. This is speaking of the Messiah, David’s Lord. This is then a Psalm looking forward to Jesus and attesting to the fact that Jesus is the divine King.
He will sit at the right hand of God and reign over His enemies and His people. This is a prophecy of Christ’s ascension into heaven after the resurrection. Jesus is now reigning over all of heaven and earth. God, the Father, is putting His enemies under His feet. Jesus reigns, and His people freely give themselves to Him in obedience.
Jesus is not only King, but He is the Priest. Verse 4 says He has made the perfect sacrifice for sin and He lives to intercede for us. Furthermore, Jesus is the great judge. He judges kings and all the nations. The nation that will not serve Him will perish, scripture says in another place. One day, He will destroy all the wicked.
Jesus is unequivocally King, Priest, and Judge.
The pivotal question remains: will you be crushed beneath His feet, or will you, clothed in holiness, eagerly and wholeheartedly love and serve Him?
Catechism Questions:
As part of our goal this year to work on grounding ourselves in our confession of faith, the children will be working through the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Each week during the worship gathering, they will be asked to stand in their pew and recite the catechism question. They will also learn three verses that are connected with that question. On the fourth Sunday of the month, they will be invited to come to the front of the sanctuary during the service to review the previous three weeks' questions. It is our hope that this will be a help not only to the children but also to the whole congregation in reviewing the foundations of our Christian faith.
Q. 4. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.
John 4:24 “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
The difficulty of accurately defining God is because He is one of a kind. There is no one else like God. There is no one that we may accurately compare Him to. This is due in part to the truth that He is spirit and we live in, as the 80’s pop song says, a material world. We are used to dealing with things we can see and touch. In fact, you and I have grown up and been incubated into a materialist worldview. That is, we are tempted to think that the material is all there is, that at the most fundamental level, everything that exists consists of nothing but matter and energy. Even thought we might not voice it this way, we are tempted to think every object is a purely physical object and every event has a purely physical cause.
The Materialist worldview rejects the idea that there are immaterial or spiritual entities, such as souls, angels or God because it rejects out of hand there can be anything that does not have a purely physical cause. In the materialist worldview, science can explain everything in terms of matter and physics. Yet, for all the ways that people throw around the term “science” to be an infallible interpreter of life, science cannot explain all that there is. Scientists doing the scientific method cannot account for science’s own foundation. That is, there are certain things needed to be presumed in order to do science i.e., the existence of a theory-independent, external word, the orderly nature of the external world, the knowability of the external world, the existence of truth, the laws of logic, and the reliability of our cognitive and sensory faculties. You cannot get to those presumptions by only using science.
But we still live in a world where materialism is a dominating worldview, and we are tempted by it. And because of so much of what we deal with is physical, we have a hard time accurately thinking of God. Jesus told us in John 4:24 that God is Spirit. What does that mean?
Alexander Whyte in his commentary on the catechism helpfully describes this
“This word Spirit,—" the profoundest word in human language",— as employed in Scripture and theology bears a figurative or metaphorical sense. The growth of the word is something like this. It first means air, the air that is the atmosphere of the earth, and the breath of all its living creatures. From this it is a short and easy step to become expressive of the life of man, and the life of his soul, as in the cry: "Into Thine hand I commit my spirit." And from that highest earthly use the word has been taken up and consecrated to describe for us the manner of God's own life. "God is Spirit." And this single expression at once does this great service for us, that it removes God's nature far from all association with material and corporal organization. For, as our Lord said: "A spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have."
Now this may make you think about God being like a ghost or a phantom. We might be tempted to think of an ethereal transparent apparition, but this is not what we mean. When the catechism, repeating after Jesus, says that God is spirit, it is teaching us that the Father is not limited by the physical, that he is life-giving and life-sustaining, that he can never be totally comprehended, and that he transcends creation.
He is not like anything else. He is unique. Men are defined by our localization, that is, we are at one particular place at one particular time. Though we do have both a body and spirit, our spirits are tied to our bodies, in this life. We are in one place at one time. God on the other hand is not limited to one place and time. He is not contained. For something to be physical it has a limit or boundary to its being. For example, our bodies extend out to a definite boundary. God is spirit and has no extension or limit. God is everywhere and yet He is at the same time not a part of everywhere. God is not the creation and yet God is present working in His creation.
Let us reject the materialistic worldview that cannot even account for something like the human mind or the laws of logic. Let us also marvel at God who is Spirit and who is infinite (more on that part tomorrow). Reflect on how amazing it is that the God who is so far above the creation is present everywhere. He is on the highest mountain and at the lowest point of the sea. He is present in Washington DC and in Southern Indiana. No matter where you are today, the good news is that He is near.
Prayers
Church of the King and Pastor Jacob Mentzel
Almighty God,
We gather today to lift up Church of the King and their pastor, Jacob Mentzel, in prayer. Lord, we ask for Your hand of strength to be upon this young congregation. Through the Holy Spirit, empower them with wisdom, passion, and an unyielding zeal for Your Word and works. May they grow not just in numbers, but in spiritual depth and understanding, becoming a bold and faithful witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We specifically pray for their efforts in training men for the role of ruling elder. Guide these men as they prepare to undertake this important responsibility. Grant them discernment, godly character, and a deep commitment to shepherd Your people according to Your will.
Strengthen Pastor Mentzel as he leads this flock. May he be a vessel of Your truth, leading with integrity, clarity, and a heart fully devoted to Your service.
In Jesus' name, we pray,
Amen.
Sweetwater Research
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today to intercede for Sweetwater Research, a Christian organization dedicated to providing clean water and spreading Your gospel. Lord, we recognize the critical need for their work in impoverished nations, and we ask for Your provision over their financial needs. May You open the floodgates of heaven to support their noble efforts.
We also pray for the expansion of their research endeavors. Grant them wisdom and guidance to discover new, effective methods to deliver clean water to those in need. Bless their scientists with skill and understanding, and may their training programs flourish, equipping more individuals to carry on this vital work.
In all they do, let the message of Your love and salvation through Jesus Christ be proclaimed clearly and effectively. May their service be a beacon of hope and a testament to Your faithfulness.
In Jesus' name, we pray,
Amen.
Jeffersonville City County Dustin White:
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today to lift up Dustin White, a member of the Jeffersonville City Council and a candidate for a judgeship. Lord, we acknowledge that all authority is established by You and that You call leaders to govern justly and righteously. We pray for Dustin, asking that You would work in his heart, leading him to repentance for any actions or support of policies that are contrary to Your will. Grant him wisdom, discernment, and a heart aligned with Your truth as he serves in public office.
We also pray fervently for his spiritual journey, asking that You would draw Dustin into a deep, saving relationship with Jesus Christ. May he come to know the transforming power of Your love and grace. Guide him to lead with integrity, justice, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of Your Word.
In Jesus' name, we pray,
Amen.
Church History Spotlight
Cornelius the Centurion
4 February
Cornelius the Centurion, as recorded in the Book of Acts, chapters 10 and 11, emerges as a pivotal figure in the New Testament. A centurion, by Roman military structure, commanded a cohort of approximately a hundred soldiers. This rank, denoting both authority and respect, appears variously throughout the New Testament, often casting centurions in a positive light (Matthew 8:5, Luke 7:2; Matthew 27:54, Luke 23:47; Acts 10:1; 22:25; 23:17, 23; 24:23; 27:1). Notably, Cornelius holds the distinction of being the first Gentile convert to Christianity, a monumental event in the history of the early Church. His conversion, along with that of his household, under the ministry of Peter, signaled a groundbreaking expansion of the Gospel, transcending Jewish boundaries to include Gentiles in the promise of salvation.
Residing in Caesarea, the administrative seat of Judea under the rule of Herod and the Romans, Cornelius was stationed in a region ripe for the spread of the nascent Christian faith. Although the Scriptures do not mention him beyond these accounts, his conversion, likely a result of his faith and fear of God, presumably catalyzed the growth of the Christian community in Caesarea. This city later emerges in Acts (8:40; 21:8) as a significant hub for Christian activity, suggesting Cornelius and his family may have played a foundational role in establishing this early Christian community.
Cornelius’s story is more than a historical footnote; it represents a critical juncture in the Church’s mission. The divine intervention in his life, through a vision and the subsequent encounter with Peter, illustrates God's sovereign plan in extending His grace beyond the confines of Jewish tradition. This event, therefore, is not just a conversion of a Roman officer but a strategic move in the divine narrative, paving the way for the Gospel to reach "the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). Cornelius, a man of authority under Rome, becomes an instrument in God's hands, demonstrating that the Kingdom of God is not limited by ethnicity or social status, but is open to all who fear Him and do what is right (Acts 10:34-35, NASB1995).
A prayer of thanksgiving for Cornelius:
O God, who by your Spirit called Cornelius the Centurion to be the first Christian among the Gentiles: Grant to your Church in every nation a ready mind and will to proclaim your love to all who turn to you with unfeigned hope and faith; for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Announcements for the Week
Prayer Concerns:
- Expectant Mothers: We request special prayers for Shawn Crone, Chelsea Mix, Rowina Spurgeon, and Maddie Sands.
- Sickness: With the prevalence of colds, flus, and viruses, remember the importance of hygiene, rest, and cleanliness. If contagious, please stay home, but return to worship as soon as you are able. Avoid letting 'Sunday Morning Sickness' disrupt your worship. Please read this blog post from elder Aaron Sabie on how to know when or when not to come to church with sicknesses. https://www.sovereignkingchurch.com/blog/2023/12/28/how-to-deal-with-sickness-on-sunday-morning
- Church of the King: Join in prayer for our brothers and sisters at Church of the King and their pastor, Jacob Mentzel. Let us unite in asking the Lord to strengthen them through the Holy Spirit, to endow them with wisdom and zeal for His Word and works. We also pray for their growth, both in number and in spiritual maturity, so they may continue to be a faithful witness to the gospel. They are a very young congregation. They are working on training up men to fulfill the office of ruling elder. Pray for this work.
- Prayer for Sweetwater Research: Sweetwater Research is a Christian water research organization. They help impoverished nations research ways to provide clean water sources for the people. They also train and mentor several scientists in these countries to continue the work. Along with this, they proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray that God will provide financially for the organization and open doors for further research.
- Jeffersonville City County Dustin White: Dustin White is a democrat city council member. He is also running for a local judges position. Pray that God would grant him repentance for supporting the wicked polices of the democrat party and would govern faithfully in obedience to God. Pray that he would come to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.
- Evangel Presbytery: We will be hosting the annual winter meeting of Evangel Presbytery on February 16. Rowina will be heading up the hospitality committee but we will need volunteers to help make the members of the presbytery feel at home. We will provide food for breakfast and lunch. Please let Rowina know if you are able to help.
- Nursing Home Ministry: We return to Maple Mannor Nursing Home on February 5th. This is a perfect opportunity for you and your family to minister to those desperately longing for human contact. True religion is taking care of the widows and orphans.
- Worship Team Practice – On February 7th, we have our monthly worship team practice. If you would like to help in leading worship, whether playing an instrument, running sound, or working the slides, please reach out to Mark Cox or Chris Friend.
- Women’s Bible Study – Why did God make women and how can you fulfill this purpose. Come join the ladies of Sovereign King on Feb 14 6:30-8:30 for engaging bible study and fellowship.
- Genevan Pub- Calling all men 16 and older, join us on February 18th for fellowship, food, beer, and a study through the Westminster Confession of Faith. This month we will begin looking at the first article of the confession on the word of God and its supremacy.
- Reformation Warcamp: Pastor Jerry Dorris from Reformation Church sent us an invite to join them at their weekend war camp and gave a discount just for us. They are having Eric and Summer Jaeger from Apologia Church lead the camp and help us set a vision for our homes. FAMILY CODE: SKC50
- Get Your SKC Swag: Grab one of these limited run water bottles for Sovereign King Church. $15 each, 32 available. All proceeds go toward the building fund. https://subspla.sh/p72cy9x/