Reformed Theology

This world is not our home. We live out our earthly days in the ‘shadowlands.’ All around us is a mixture of darkness and light. However, we still have a choice. Will we be agents of the light or the dark? That will be the focus of today’s study in 1 Thessalonians 5. Questions That We’ll Answer: A) What were the Thessalonians anxious about? B) How did the Apostle Paul address that anxiety? C) What were the implications for how they were to live? Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby Holt

In John 21, Jesus talked about His ‘return.’ He would leave. In due time, He would come back. But for what purpose? And at what point? That will be the focus of today’s study. Questions That We’ll Answer: A) Why did Jesus suggest that John would remain? B) How do the events of 70AD relate to this passage? C) How does John’s gospel conclude? Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby Holt

How many times had Peter ‘denied’ Jesus? Three. How many times did Jesus ask Peter if he ‘loved’ Him? Three. In today’s study of John 21, we’ll see the forgiveness of Christ, and the commissioning of Peter. Questions That We’ll Answer: A) What caused Peter to recognize Jesus on the beach? B) What did Jesus mean by ‘feed My sheep?’ C) How does this passage apply to our own lives and leadership? Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt

Skepticism is NOT a fruit of the Spirit. In John 19, Jesus died. In John 20, He was resurrected. And after that, He appeared to His apostles in the Upper Room. However, one was missing. And he didn’t believe the other ten. The ‘doubts’ of Thomas will be the focus of today’s study. Questions That We’ll Answer: A) What are the proofs of Christ’s resurrection? B) What else do we know about ‘Doubting Thomas?’ C) What does this text teach us about ‘faith?’ Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby B. Holt

The resurrection of Jesus is a pivotal moment explored in depth, showcasing its profound implications for faith. Mary Magdalene's discovery of the empty tomb leads to rich discussions about the meaning behind two angels at the grave. The emotional encounter between Mary and the risen Jesus highlights themes of grief transformed into joy. The journey from Eden's fall to redemption emphasizes the hope offered through resurrection. Lastly, the transformative power of forgiveness and divine adoption illustrates how believers are embraced within God's unwavering love.

It. Is. Finished. Just three words – yet, the most significant ever spoken. On Calvary, Jesus declared ‘it is finished.’ The question for us is: what was He referring to? What was ‘finished,’ and what value does it have for us? That will be the focus of today’s study in John 19. Other Questions That We’ll Answer: A) Why did Jesus have to die? Was it really necessary? B) Why did the sky grow dark, and why was the temple veiled ripped? C) What proofs are there of the crucifixion and resurrection? Dr. Toby Holt is pastor of First Presbyterian Church, in Gulfport MS.

It is finished. Three simple words – three words, on which your fate rests. On Calvary, Jesus completed the work that He was sent to do. What was that work? And what does it mean for you? That will be the focus of today’s study from John 19. Questions That We’ll Answer: A) Did Jesus really have to die? And if so, why? B) What did Christ’s death actually accomplish? C) What prophesies were fulfilled on the cross? Speaker: Rev. Dr. Toby Holt

“What is truth?” That was Pilate’s question. It was a great question – too bad he didn’t wait for an answer. Pontius Pilate asked Jesus a number of things in John 18 – and was befuddled by Christ’s responses. We will consider their unique conversation in today’s study. Questions We’ll Address: A) Who was Pilate, and what was his background? B) Why did the Jewish leaders take Jesus to Pilate? C) Why did the people demand the release of Barabbas?

Peter said that he loved Jesus. Peter said that he’d die for Jesus. But on the night of Christ’s betrayal, Peter denied Him three times. So, what do we make of Peter’s failure? What do we make of his weakness? And how did Christ respond? That will be the focus of today’s study in John 18.     Web: www.fpcgulfport.org

Lanterns, torches and weapons. The men who sought Jesus were heavily armed! That’s what rebels do – they arm themselves for battle. Meanwhile, Jesus waited patiently. In a sense, the events of John 18 are a microcosm of mankind’s history. Specifically, our ‘armed rebellion’ against a loving and patient God. We’ll consider that rebellion (and Christ’s response) in today’s study of John 18.   Church Website: www.fpcgulfport.org