First Reformed Church Edgerton

Is it really worth it to follow God when the wicked seem to win? In this powerful and hope-filled conclusion to the book of Malachi, we see that God is not blind to injustice nor forgetful of faithfulness. He promises that the Day of the Lord is coming—a day when the arrogant will face judgment, and the faithful will leap like calves set free. The same God who calls His people to remember and return also provides the mercy we so desperately need in Jesus Christ.This sermon unpacks the final words of the Old Testament, showing us how the story points forward to Christ, the true Sun of Righteousness, who brings healing in His wings.

Are you living as if God's blessings might run out? In "Test and See His Provision," Pastor Mark guides us through Malachi 3:6–12, reminding us that God is faithful even when we're not. This sermon encourages us to examine our hearts, highlighting that true obedience and generosity flow naturally from gratitude for God's overwhelming grace.In this message, you'll learn that God doesn't leave His people stuck in their mistakes. Instead, He graciously invites them—and us—to return to Him, promising blessings beyond our imagination. These promises are ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who has richly blessed us through His life, death, and resurrection. Our response to this profound generosity should be joyful stewardship of our whole lives.

Have you ever wondered why evil seems to prosper while faithfulness often goes unnoticed? In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores Malachi 2:17-3:5, where God’s people questioned His justice and demanded answers. But instead of immediate judgment, God responds with something unexpected: a refining fire and cleansing soap meant to purify His covenant people.

Have you ever considered how small compromises can lead to major spiritual consequences? In Malachi 2:10-16, God rebukes His people for their unfaithfulness—both in their relationships with one another and in their marriages. What started as minor compromises led to a full-scale spiritual decline.This passage is a wake-up call, reminding us that faithfulness to God is not just about religious rituals—it extends to how we treat one another, how we uphold the sanctity of marriage, and how we guard against the creeping influence of idolatry.

Have you ever found yourself going through the motions in your worship? In Malachi 1:6–2:9, God confronts the priests for offering defiled sacrifices and leading His people into complacency. They weren’t outright rejecting God, but they were cutting corners, treating worship as a burden rather than a privilege. Their compromise wasn’t just personal—it was leading an entire nation astray.In this sermon, we explore what it means to worship God without compromise. True worship is not about empty rituals; it is about honoring God with sincerity, reverence, and truth.

Have you ever settled for something fake without realizing it? In Malachi 1:1-5, God confronts Israel about their hollow devotion, calling them to return to Him in genuine faith. The people doubted His love because they couldn’t see His promises fulfilled immediately, yet His faithfulness remained unshaken.

In this sermon on Revelation 14:14-20, we explore John’s vivid vision of two distinct harvests—the gathering of the righteous and the crushing of the wicked in the great winepress of God’s wrath. This passage offers a sobering look at God’s coming judgment, the certainty of His justice, and the hope for those who are in Christ.You’ll discover how the imagery of the harvest connects deeply with Old Testament prophecy and how it challenges us today to examine our hearts, live in light of Christ’s return, and rest in God’s ultimate justice. This is a call to consider where we stand: are we part of the wheat gathered into God’s barn, or are we destined for the winepress of His wrath?

In a world filled with counterfeits, how can we discern what is true?Revelation 13 gives us a sobering vision of a beast that demands worship, representing the idolatrous power of worldly empires. But behind it all is Satan, the deceiver, working through false authority to lead people astray. The early church faced the temptation to bow to Rome, just as we face pressures today to conform to the world’s standards. This sermon challenges us to stand firm in Christ, refusing to worship the counterfeit king and instead remaining faithful to the true King, Jesus Christ.

Revelation 12 paints a dramatic picture of a cosmic battle—the war between the forces of darkness and the triumphant reign of Christ. Satan, the great accuser, has been defeated by the blood of the Lamb and the word of the saints' testimony. Yet, though his ultimate fate is sealed, he rages against the church, seeking to deceive and destroy. This sermon explores three key truths from Revelation 12:✅ God’s sovereign protection of His people✅ The victory of Christ and His kingdom✅ The faithful endurance of the saints Though the enemy continues his assault, the church stands firm—not by its own strength, but by the power of Christ. Join us as we dive into this passage and discover the hope and confidence we have in our victorious Savior.

How do we respond to the proclamation of Christ’s eternal kingdom? In this powerful sermon from Revelation 11:1-19, we explore how the seventh trumpet declares the ultimate victory of Jesus. We’ll see how God preserves His people, demonstrates His power over death, and proclaims His eternal reign. This message offers assurance for believers, calling us to worship the victorious King and live as faithful witnesses in a broken world.

Have you ever experienced something both sweet and bitter at the same time? Revelation 10 vividly illustrates the sweetness and bitterness of God’s Word. In this sermon, we explore the authority of God’s Word, the certainty of His unfolding plan, and the challenge of proclaiming His truth—even when it’s hard to swallow. We are reminded that God’s Word brings comfort and joy, yet it carries a weight of responsibility and conviction. Join us as we unpack this powerful passage and consider how to live as faithful witnesses to His truth in a world that desperately needs His Word.

Have you ever seen stubbornness lead to destruction? In Revelation 9:13-21, we encounter a vivid portrayal of humanity’s unrepentant hearts, even in the face of God’s terrifying judgment. This sobering passage reveals three profound truths: the precision of God’s judgment, the devastating power of sin, and the tragedy of hardened hearts. Join us as we explore how this passage calls us to humility, repentance, and faith in the Lamb who was slain. Be encouraged to reflect on your own heart and the mercy God offers to those who turn to Him.

What does it mean to be “marked by God” or “marked for judgment”? Revelation 9:1-12 reveals the terrifying consequences of rejecting God and the immense security found in Christ. Discover the reality of divine judgment, the protection of God’s people, and the devastating power of sin’s consequences. Let this passage lead us to gratitude, warning, and urgency to share the gospel. Contemplate these questions as you listen to this message: 1. What does the seal of God represent, and how does it offer security to believers in the midst of judgment? 2. How does the description of torment in Revelation 9:1-12 deepen your understanding of the consequences of sin? 3. In what ways does this passage motivate you to share the gospel with those who are “marked for judgment”? 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

In Revelation 8, heaven falls silent as the seventh seal is opened, followed by the prayers of the saints and the sounding of the first four trumpets. This profound moment reminds us of the weight of God’s judgment, the power of prayer, and the call to repentance. As we enter a new year, let’s reflect, renew, and focus on our faith in Christ. Contemplate these questions as you listen to this message: 1. How does the silence in heaven challenge us to pause and reflect on the holiness of God in our own lives? 2. In what ways do the prayers of the saints inspire us to approach God with confidence and trust ? 3. How does the vision of the trumpets remind us of the seriousness of sin and the urgency of repentance? Edgerton First Reformed: ⁠http://edgertonfrc.org⁠Pastor Mark Groen: ⁠http://markgroen.me⁠Dwell in the Word Podcast Feed: ⁠http://dwellpodcast.efrc.me⁠Sermon Podcast Feed: ⁠http://sermons.efrc.me⁠Instagram: ⁠http://efrc.me/insta⁠Facebook: ⁠http://efrc.me/facebook⁠YouTube: ⁠http://efrc.me/youtube⁠Weekly

In this Christmas Day sermon, we explore the beauty, joy, and power of the message of Jesus' birth. From Isaiah's prophecy to the manger in Bethlehem, we see how God displayed His faithfulness and salvation in humility. Let this message of hope and redemption inspire your celebration and proclamation of the gospel. Contemplate these questions as you listen to this message: How does the humility of Jesus’ birth contrast with His preeminence as described in Colossians 1:16-17? Why is the message of God’s salvation in Isaiah 52:7-10 described as "beautiful," and how should it impact our proclamation of the gospel? In what ways does the Christmas story reveal God’s power through weakness, and how can this truth encourage us to share our faith? 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/face

In this Advent message from Micah 5:2-5a, we discover the humble King born in Bethlehem, the fulfillment of every longing, and the Shepherd who brings peace. See how Christ’s coming transforms darkness into light and provides eternal hope to all who trust in Him. Rejoice in the Good Shepherd, whose peace surpasses all understanding. Consider these questions as you reflect on this week's message: 1. How does the prophecy of Micah 5:2-5a reveal the humility and eternal significance of Christ’s birth? 2. What does it mean for Jesus to fulfill humanity’s deepest longing to be reconciled to God? 3. How does the image of Jesus as the Shepherd-King bring comfort and peace in your daily life? 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 YouTube: ⁠http://efrc.me/youtube⁠ Weekly Virtual Bulletin:

In a world longing for peace, Psalm 85 reminds us of God's steadfast love, faithfulness, and the gifts of heaven that transform broken lives. This Advent, discover how God's past faithfulness builds confidence for today and hope for tomorrow in Christ. Let His righteousness and peace renew your heart and guide your steps. Consider these questions as you listen to this week's message: 1. How does recalling God’s past faithfulness give you confidence in uncertain times? 2. What does it mean for you to experience revival in your heart through repentance and trust in Christ? 3. How can the gifts of steadfast love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace transform your daily walk with God? 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 YouTube: ⁠http://efrc.me/youtube⁠ Weekly Virtual Bulletin: ⁠

What does true repentance look like? In this Advent sermon on Luke 3:1-17, we reflect on John the Baptist’s call to “bear fruit in keeping with repentance.” Discover the difference between outward appearances and genuine transformation as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Let’s live lives that glorify God through true repentance. Contemplate these questions as you listen to this week’s message: What areas of your life might appear outwardly polished but need genuine transformation through repentance? How does the Holy Spirit work in you to produce fruit that reflects true repentance? How can reflecting on Christ’s second coming help you live in a posture of repentance and readiness? 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 YouTube: ⁠http://efrc.me/youtube⁠ Weekl

Advent calls us to prepare our hearts for Christ’s return, just as Paul urged the Thessalonians to live lives of thanksgiving, prayer, and holiness. In this sermon, "Established Hearts," we explore how God shapes us through His Word and Spirit to be blameless and loving as we await Christ's appearing. Join us in seeking hearts ready for His coming! Contemplate these questions as you listen to this week’s message: 1. How does Paul’s expression of thanksgiving in 1 Thessalonians 3:9 challenge your view of gratitude in your spiritual life? 2. In what ways can you actively encourage and equip others in their faith journey as Paul sought to do for the Thessalonians? 3. How does the work of God in establishing blameless hearts through His Word and Spirit transform how you live in anticipation of Christ’s return? 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 Insta