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 w…

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 anci…

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, hi…

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’ resurrectio…

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 durin…

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 fulfill…

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…

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…

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 c…

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 yo…

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:…

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 go…

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…

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 th…

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 an…

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 …

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 Roman…

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 m…

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 faithf…

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…

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 yo…

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 authen…

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 f…

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 …

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 the…

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 …

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, ai…

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.…

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 …

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 Limi…

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 “Under…

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 differen…

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://markg…

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…

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. T…

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 betw…

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, ma…

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 …

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: ht…

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 inherent…

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 heari…

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 h…

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 passage for today is from Acts 2:1-21. Today's message is from our pastor, Mark Groen. You can find more information about First Reformed Church in Edgerton, MN at our website or at our virtual bulletin.

The passage for this week's message is Acts 1:1-11.

The passage for this week's message is Luke 11:1-13.

The passage for this week is Luke 10:38-42.

The passage for this week's message is Luke 10:25-37.

The passage for this week's message is from Luke 10:17-24.

The passage for this week's message is Luke 10:1-16.