The Revelation of Jesus Christ | Revelation 1:1-3 | A Message for Every Generation
What if the end of the Bible wasn’t about confusion, but clarity?
In this opening message from our series through Revelation, Pastor Mark Groen invites us to rethink how we approach the final book of Scripture—not as a cryptic code to decipher, but as a clear unveiling of Jesus Christ. Revelation begins with a blessing for those who hear and keep its words, reminding us that this book is meant to strengthen the church, not mystify it.
Held by God | Psalm 57, 1 Peter 1, & John 10 | Confidence in the Perseverance of the Saints
Here we are today. We're finishing up our five-week series on understanding grace, and what we have been doing is we've been looking at the doctrines of grace and we'll review those here in just another second but today we are considering the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. Now, during our journey through these five points in the doctrines of grace, I have been pointing out that there is a logical progression and consistency to these doctrines, and so it all starts out with our understanding of total depravity.
Transformed by the Spirit | Isaiah 55:1–13 & Romans 8:18–39 | The Power of Irresistible Grace
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 and assurance for believers. It reminds us that our salvation is not dependent on our own efforts, but on the grace of God. It also gives us confidence that God will continue His transforming work in our lives to conform us to the image of His Son.
Intentional Atonement | John 10:1-21 & Isaiah 53:1-12 | Redemption Accomplished for His People
Why did Jesus lay down His life? In this third sermon from our Understanding Grace series, we explore the deep assurance that comes from knowing Christ’s atonement was intentional and effective. From Isaiah’s prophecy to Jesus’ words in John, Scripture reveals that Christ did not die to make salvation merely possible—He died to actually redeem His people.
Adopted by God | Deuteronomy 7:6–11 & Romans 9:1–16 | God's Covenant Love Revealed
Why are we called the children of God? In this second sermon from our Understanding Grace series, we explore the astonishing truth that salvation is not based on human effort but entirely on God's sovereign love. From God's choosing of Israel in Deuteronomy to Paul's teaching in Romans, Scripture shows us that adoption into God's family is rooted in His mercy, not our merit.
Fallen Humanity | Genesis 3:1–24 & Romans 3:1–20 | Why Grace Is Our Only Hope
Why do we need grace? In this opening sermon from our Understanding Grace series, we explore the sobering truth about the human condition apart from God. From the first act of rebellion in Genesis to Paul’s clear teaching in Romans, Scripture shows us that we are not merely flawed—we are spiritually dead. But it is in the depths of our fallenness that the light of God’s grace shines brightest.
Wonders & Signs | Acts 2:1–21 | The Spirit for All Nations
On Pentecost, the church was born—but not through chaos. Acts 2 records the rushing wind, the tongues of fire, and the miracle of languages, but the heart of the event is found in Peter's sermon: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
In this sermon, Pastor Mark Groen takes us through Acts 2:1–21, showing how Pentecost is the fulfillment of Old Testament promises, the reversal of Babel, and the launch of God’s global mission. The signs at Pentecost weren't meant to be repeated—they were meant to validate the gospel. The real wonder is the Spirit-empowered proclamation of salvation by grace, now made available to people of every tribe, tongue, and nation.
Triumph | Acts 1:1–11 | Christ Ascended and Reigning
It's good when we arrive at a destination, isn't it? It's good to finally get where we're going. We're glad that we end up safely where we intend to be. Now, we don't dwell on a safe arrival with every arrival that we do because it's not that often that we travel in significant ways. I don't rejoice every time I have a safe journey to the post office or the grocery store. I don't get out of the car and go, I'm safe. I don't call my mom and say, I made it. I don't do that when I walk the some 350 odd steps over here to work every day. It's not a big deal. But when it's a long journey, it's a different story. First, there is that sense that you are done with the trip. That's the part of the arrival that we perhaps like the most. No worrying about whether or not there's a stop to our spot to stop to get food or do other things that you have to do on a trip.
Contentment | Exodus 20:17 | The Cure for a Restless Heart
In a world that constantly tells us we need more to be satisfied, God's Word calls us to something better: contentment. In this sermon on the Tenth Commandment, we explore the heart of coveting, the deep dissatisfaction that often takes root unnoticed, and the joy that comes from trusting in God's provision. Discover how contentment leads us to a life of holiness and reflects the heart of the God who satisfies every need.
Speaking the Truth | Exodus 20:16 Living as Reflections of God's Character
We live in a world where falsehood seems rampant and truth is often questioned. In this sermon on the Ninth Commandment from Exodus 20:16, Pastor Mark Groen explores how speaking the truth is deeply rooted in the very character of God. Discover why truth matters not just for personal integrity, but for glorifying God in a world of deception. Learn how living as people of truth reflects the nature of the One who saved us.
God Provides | Exodus 20:15 | Contentment That Frees the Heart
What does it truly mean to obey "You shall not steal"? In this sermon on Exodus 20:15, Pastor Mark Groen unpacks the Eighth Commandment, showing how theft is not only an outward action but a heart issue rooted in discontentment and distrust of God's provision. From obvious sins like robbery to subtle ones like manipulation and envy, we are challenged to pursue godliness with contentment and to live generous and honest lives that glorify Christ.
Join us in reflecting on how God's abundant provision in Christ calls us to trust, to be content, and to seek heavenly treasures above earthly possessions.
God is Life: Exodus 20:13 | Honoring Life in Heart and Action
In this message on Exodus 20:13, Pastor Mark reveals how the sixth commandment extends beyond physical acts to the hidden anger and resentment in our hearts. Grounded in Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount, this sermon calls us to honor the image of God in others and to live lives marked by love, prayer, and gospel grace.
How We Talk About God: Exodus 20:7 | God Has Spoken—How Should We Speak of Him?
How seriously do we take the way we speak about God? The Third Commandment is about far more than avoiding a few specific words—it's about revering the holy name of the One who has spoken to us and called us His own.
In this sermon, Pastor Mark unpacks Exodus 20:1-7, showing us the depth of the Third Commandment. It’s not just about avoiding misuse of God’s name but also about how we live, speak, and teach in a way that reflects His truth and glory. Our speech matters because God’s name is holy, and He has spoken to us with power and grace.
Sent For This Purpose: Luke 4:31-44 | Power, Purpose, and the Kingdom of God
Why did Jesus come? In Luke 4, Jesus not only teaches with divine authority, but His power is displayed as He commands unclean spirits, heals the sick, and proclaims the kingdom of God. The people marvel at His authority, but Jesus makes it clear—He did not come just to perform miracles, but to preach the good news of God's reign.
This passage challenges us: Do we recognize Jesus' authority in our own lives? Do we submit to His Word, trusting that He alone has the power to save? As the demons tremble and the sick are healed, we see that Christ’s ultimate mission was to proclaim salvation, bringing the dead to life and breaking the chains of sin.
In Your Hearing: Luke 4:16-30 | The Messiah We Want vs. The Messiah We Need
Why did Jesus' own people reject Him? In Luke 4, Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth and proclaims the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. At first, the crowd marvels at His words—until He challenges their assumptions about God’s grace. When Jesus declares that salvation extends beyond Israel to the Gentiles, their admiration turns to fury.
This passage forces us to examine our own hearts. Do we accept God’s Word even when it challenges us? Do we trust in His sovereign grace, even when it reaches those we might least expect? Jesus’ message is clear—the gospel is for all people. But will we hear and believe, or will we resist like the people of Nazareth?
Him Only: Luke 4:1-15 | Victory in the Wilderness, Hope for Us
Have you ever felt the weight of temptation pressing in? In Luke 4, we witness the moment when Jesus, led by the Spirit, faces the full force of the enemy’s temptations. Yet, where Adam failed and Israel fell short, Jesus stands firm. His victory in the wilderness isn’t just a personal triumph—it’s our hope, our assurance, and the foundation of our salvation.
Glory to God: Luke 2:1-21 | God’s Faithfulness in Real Time and History
Have you ever noticed how seasons and events set the world in motion? Whether it’s the rush of holiday travel or the gathering of crowds before a big game, movement points to something greater at work. In Luke 2, we see that God has set the entire world in motion to fulfill His sovereign purpose—bringing the Savior into the world. Through a Roman census, a humble manger, and an announcement to lowly shepherds, the eternal King arrives exactly as God ordained. In this sermon, we explore how Jesus’ birth was not just a sentimental story but a fulfillment of God’s covenant promises. From the prophetic necessity of Bethlehem to the angelic declaration of a Savior, this passage reminds us that God is at work in real history, bringing salvation to His people. The birth of Christ calls us to worship, just as it did the shepherds, and to proclaim the good news of God’s faithfulness to a watching world. At First Reformed, we are a Confessional Presbyterian and Reformed church committed to Christ-centered preaching and scriptural fidelity. We believe in the power of the gospel to transform lives and invite you to explore the riches of God’s Word with us.
My Soul Magnifies the Lord: Luke 1:39-56 | Rejoicing in God's Mercy
How do you respond to the good news of the gospel? Joy is a natural reaction when we realize what God has done for us in Christ. In Luke 1:39-56, we witness two remarkable women—Elizabeth and Mary—overflowing with joy at the coming of the promised Messiah. Their response is one of praise, gratitude, and faith, reminding us that God’s mercy extends to those who trust in Him. In this sermon, we explore the beautiful encounter between Mary and Elizabeth, the leaping of John the Baptist in the womb, and Mary’s song of praise, the Magnificat. Through these events, we see God’s covenant faithfulness, His grace to the humble, and the fulfillment of His redemptive promises in Jesus Christ.
Then You Shall Know | Ezekiel 37:1–14 | The Spirit Brings Life Through the Word
On Pentecost Sunday, we often turn to Acts 2—but this sermon takes us deeper into the prophetic background of Pentecost in Ezekiel 37:1–14. In the Valley of Dry Bones, we see a vivid picture of what God does through His Word and Spirit: He brings the dead to life. Pastor Mark Groen shows how this passage points forward to Pentecost, where the Spirit of God empowered gospel proclamation to awaken hearts and build the church. This sermon reminds us that real spiritual renewal is not about emotional hype—it’s about the powerful, certain work of God through His Word.
Great Joy | Luke 24:44–53 | The Disciples Understood at Last
What caused the disciples to rejoice after Jesus left them? In this Ascension Sunday sermon from Luke 24:44–53, Pastor Mark Groen unpacks the joy-filled response of Jesus’ followers—not because of His absence, but because of His exaltation. The ascension is not a departure story, but an arrival story. It reveals that Jesus has taken His throne and now reigns as our risen and ascended King. This message explores how the Old Testament pointed to this moment, how the disciples became bold witnesses of the truth, and how we are called to do the same today. Let the joy of the ascension fill your heart with confidence, purpose, and praise.