Forest Hill PCA Devotionals

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a devotional on Heidelberg Catechism Question 54. In this session, we explore the Apostles' Creed and what it means to believe in the "Holy Catholic Christian Church," looking at its universal scope, unity in true faith, and our eternal security as living members. The devotional concludes with a beautiful rendition of the classic hymn, "The Church's One Foundation."

Exploring Romans 9 | God's Sovereignty in Salvation | Day 149Description: Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for Day 149 of the "Exploring Romans" series as we dive deep into Romans Chapter 9. This devotional reading and exposition challenges human pride by exploring the profound themes of God's sovereignty, mercy, and grace in salvation. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, visit foresthillpca.org.

Week 19: Heidelberg Catechism Question 53 - The Holy SpiritJoin Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as we continue our devotional journey through the Apostles' Creed portion of the Heidelberg Catechism. This week, we dive into Question 53 to explore what we believe concerning the Holy Spirit. Discover the profound comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit is the true, eternal God—co-equal with the Father and the Son—and that He is given to every believer to unite us to Christ, assure us of our adoption, and dwell with us forever.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church as we wrap up Week 18 of our Heidelberg Catechism devotionals. In this episode, we focus on Question 52 and Article 7 of the Apostles’ Creed: Christ's return to judge the living and the dead. Discover the deep gospel comfort believers find amidst sorrow, persecution, and loss, knowing our Savior will return to vanquish all enemies and bring His chosen ones into everlasting joy.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for this episode of Exploring Romans, as we dive into Romans chapter 8. Discover why this beloved passage is considered the heart of Paul's magnum opus, guiding believers from the promise of "no condemnation" to the ultimate assurance of "no separation". Learn how the Trinity works powerfully for our salvation and how we can practically walk by the Spirit amidst the struggles of life.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for Week 18 of the Heidelberg Catechism devotionals. In this episode, we explore Question 51, discussing Christ's ascension and His session at the right hand of God the Father. Discover how the glory of Christ our head benefits believers through the pouring out of the Holy Spirit's gifts and His power to defend and preserve us against all enemies.

Romans 7: The Believer’s Struggle and the Law's Purpose Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores the complex relationship between the Christian and the Mosaic law. Discover why the "holy and righteous" law cannot save us from our sinful nature and how Jesus Christ provides the only way to serve in the "new way of the Spirit."• Understand the transition from the written code to life in Christ. • Find Encouragement in the shared struggle of the Apostle Paul. • Look ahead to the glorious hope found in Romans 8.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for Week 18 of our devotional series. Today, we answer Question 50: Why does the Apostles' Creed state that Jesus "sits at the right hand of God"?Discover the power of Christ's current rule by exploring:The transition from His Ascension to His Session.His supreme headship over the Church (Ephesians 1 & Colossians 1).His eternal authority over all earthly powers (1 Peter 3).

Heidelberg Catechism: Lord's Day 18, Question #49 | The Benefits of Christ's AscensionJoin Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church as we wrap up "Ascension Week"! In today’s devotional (Question 49 of the Heidelberg Catechism), we explore the profound gospel comfort found in Christ's ascension into heaven. Discover the three amazing benefits of Jesus ascending on high: having a righteous Advocate before the Father, having our human flesh in heaven as a sure pledge of our future glory, and receiving the Holy Spirit to help us set our minds on things above.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as we read through the powerful truths of Romans 6 (ESV). If we are saved by grace, does that mean we can keep on sinning? By no means! Today’s devotional dives into what it means to be united with Christ through baptism, set free from the bondage of sin, and made slaves to righteousness. Discover why living for God isn't about earning salvation, but joyfully living out the free gift of eternal life.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for an "Ascension Week" devotion on the Heidelberg Catechism. This session focuses on Question 48, exploring the profound mystery and comfort of Christ's two distinct but united natures: true God and true man.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for a study of Romans, chapter 5. In this devotional, we transition from the theme of justification into sanctification, exploring how faith in Christ brings us peace with God and an unshakable hope for His glory. Discover how Christ's one act of perfect righteousness brings an overflow of grace that conquers sin and anchors our progress in the Christian life.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for Week 17 of our Heidelberg Catechism devotionals. Today, we explore Question 47, examining the Ascension of Christ, His dual nature as true man and true God, and the comforting promise that He is always with us through the Holy Spirit.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a brief devotional exploring Question 46 of the Heidelberg Catechism: Christ's ascension into heaven. Discover the historical reality of Jesus' ascension, how His ongoing intercession at the right hand of God benefits believers today, and the glorious promise of His future return.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a devotional exposition of Romans chapter 4. In this episode of "Exploring Romans," we look at the examples of Abraham and David to discover the beautiful truth of justification by faith alone. Discover why our salvation rests not in our own works or obedience to the law, but solely on the finished work, perfect righteousness, and victorious resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a brief devotional on Question 45 of the Heidelberg Catechism. In this episode, we explore the exaltation of Christ and uncover the three profound, life-changing benefits His resurrection brings to believers today.

In this study of Romans chapter 3, we examine the Apostle Paul’s argument regarding humanity's spiritual condition and the necessity of the gospel. The passage clearly outlines that all people—both Jews and Gentiles—are under sin and that no human being can be justified by the works of the law.Key topics covered:The Purpose of the Law: How the law brings the knowledge of sin and holds the world accountable to God.Universal Unrighteousness: An examination of verses 10-18, emphasizing that "none is righteous, no, not one."Justification by Faith: How the righteousness of God is manifested apart from the law and given as a gift to all who believe.Redemption and Propitiation: Understanding Christ's sacrifice to satisfy divine justice and absorb the wrath of God.The study concludes by explaining how justification through faith alone eliminates all human boasting, pointing entirely to the finished work of Jesus Christ.

Finding Comfort in the Cross | Heidelberg Catechism #44Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as we explore Question 44 of the Heidelberg Catechism: Why is there added, "he descended into hell"? In this devotional, we unpack this controversial line from the Apostles' Creed to understand how Christ's unspeakable anguish on the cross fully satisfied God's wrath, forever delivering believers from the torments of hell.

Title: Christ's Death Benefits Us Speaker: Rev. Jason Van BemmelSeries: Heidelberg Catechism DevosDate: April 16, 2026What benefits do believers receive from Christ's death in this life?Heidelberg Catechism Question #43

Who is truly justified before God? In Romans 2, the Apostle Paul issues a challenging reality check to the self-righteous and religious. While it’s easy to stand on the sidelines and point out the obvious sins of the world, Paul reminds us that passing judgment on others while secretly practicing the same things leaves us utterly without excuse.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a devotional on Heidelberg Catechism Question 42. Discover why, although Christ died for our sins, believers still experience physical death—not as a punishment, but as an entrance into eternal life. This session includes scriptural reflections from John, Philippians, and 1 Thessalonians, followed by a musical performance of "Abide with Me."

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemel from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church in this deep dive into Romans Chapter 1. In this episode of the Exploring Romans series, we examine Paul’s majestic introduction to the Gospel—the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.Pastor Jason provides a chapter-by-chapter exposition, walking through:The Identity of Jesus: Fully man and fully God.The Obedience of Faith: Why the Gospel is for all nations.The Wrath of God: Understanding why humanity needs salvation and how we suppress the truth.The Downward Spiral: How idolatry leads to a debased mind and the rejection of God's design.Whether you are a new believer or a long-time student of the Word, this devotional exposition offers a clear, biblical perspective on the "greatest letter ever written".

In this 15th week of the Heidelberg Catechism devotionals, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church explores Question 41: "Why was he buried?" Through an examination of Luke 23, 1 Corinthians 15, Isaiah 53, and Acts 13, Pastor Van Bemmel explains how Jesus' burial in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea fulfilled Old Testament prophecy and served as definitive proof of His death. Join us in reflecting on the reality of Christ's sacrifice, His time under the power of death, and the ultimate victory of His resurrection.

Why was Christ’s death the only way to satisfy divine justice? Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Question 40 of the Heidelberg Catechism, reflecting on the necessity of Jesus’ sacrifice and his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.

This devotional, led by Pastor Jason Van Bemmel, concludes the book of Acts. It follows Paul from the miracle-filled island of Malta to his final destination in Rome, where he spends two years under house arrest boldly proclaiming the Gospel.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel as he explores Question 39 of the Heidelberg Catechism, reflecting on the profound meaning of Christ's crucifixion and the curse he bore for our salvation.

Michael Talerico, former pastoral intern at Forest Hill Presbyterian Church, leads a devotional on Acts 27, emphasizing the importance of trusting God’s sovereignty even in the midst of life's "chaos" and harrowing trials.

In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Heidelberg Catechism Question 38, discussing why Jesus suffered under the earthly judge Pontius Pilate. He explains the concept of penal substitutionary atonement using passages from Luke, 2 Corinthians, and Galatians, showing how Christ was condemned in our place to free us from God's severe judgment.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a special Good Friday (2026) devotional on Question 37 of the Heidelberg Catechism. In this episode, we deeply meditate on the suffering of Jesus Christ. Through an exploration of the Apostles' Creed, Isaiah 53, and Hebrews 5, we look at how Christ willingly bore the wrath of God to redeem humanity, granting us grace, righteousness, and eternal life.

Paul stands before Herod Agrippa, giving us a Master Class in Gospel witness and apologetics.

Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Question 36 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on the profound benefits of Christ's holy conception and birth. He explains how Jesus, as both fully God and fully man, uniquely qualifies as our mediator to bridge the gap created by sin. Through exploring rich scriptures like 1 Timothy 2:5, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 8, Hebrews 9, and 1 Peter 1, this teaching highlights how Christ's perfect innocence covers our sin, purifies our conscience, and secures our eternal inheritance.

Join Pastor Intern Michael Taliercio for a devotional study of Acts 25. Explore how God’s sovereignty and wisdom protect Paul through the legal systems of the time, ensuring the Gospel continues its journey toward Rome.

Context: The devotional focuses on Question 35 of the Heidelberg Catechism, exploring the Apostles' Creed article that states Jesus was "conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary."The Incarnation: The core teaching emphasizes that Jesus is the eternal Son of God who maintained His divine nature while taking on a true human nature, including flesh and blood, from the Virgin Mary through the power of the Holy Spirit.Scriptural Evidence: Passages like Romans 9:4-5, 1 John 5:20, and Luke 1:35 are utilized to affirm that Jesus is simultaneously the true, eternal God and a human Israelite according to the flesh.Theological Purpose: Drawing from Hebrews 2:17 and 4:15, the pastor explains that the Son of God had to become fully human to serve as a merciful, faithful, and sympathetic High Priest who understands our temptations.Atonement: By taking on human flesh and living a sinless life, Jesus was uniquely equipped to represent humanity before God and offer Himself as a propitiation to satisfy divine justice for our sins.Conclusion: The devotional concludes with a prayer of gratitude for Christ's sacrifice and an introduction to the historic incarnation hymn, Of the Father's Love Begotten.

Heidelberg Catechism Devotional #34: Why We Call Jesus "Our Lord"In this devotional, Pastor Jason van Bemmel explores Question 34 of the Heidelberg Catechism, explaining the profound significance of calling Jesus Christ "our Lord." Discover how Christ ransomed us from sin and the power of the devil—not with silver or gold, but with His own precious blood—to make us His own possession.Key Scripture Highlights:1 Peter 1: Ransomed by the blood of Christ.Colossians 1: Transferred from darkness to the Kingdom of the Son.Romans 14: Belonging to the Lord in life and in death.

WalkDevo #525 | Acts 24: Paul Before Felix & The Heart of the GospelJoin Pastoral Intern Michael Tillerseo for day 525 of our daily walk through the Bible as we explore Acts 24. In this devotional, we examine Paul’s faithful defense before Governor Felix against the false accusations brought by the Sanhedrin. Despite imprisonment and opposition, Paul boldly keeps the resurrection of Jesus Christ at the very center of his testimony. We also reflect on Governor Felix’s tragic decision to prioritize earthly gain and the approval of others over submitting to the gospel, serving as a powerful reminder for us to faithfully share God's word and leave the results in His hands.

Pastor Jason van Bemmel explores Paul's trial before Governor Felix in Acts 24. Learn from Paul's example of a dignified defense, his refusal to return slander with slander, and his unwavering commitment to preaching righteousness, self-control, and judgment even to a corrupt authority.

Heidelberg Catechism Devotional #33: The Son of GodJoin Pastor Jason van Bemmel as he explores Question 33 of the Heidelberg Catechism: Why is Jesus called God's "only begotten Son" when we are also called His children? This devotional delves into the eternal sonship of Christ and the beautiful reality of our adoption through grace.Key Scripture: John 1:1-18, 1 John 4:9, Romans 8:14-17.

Join Pastor Jason Van Bemmel for Day 522 of "Walking with Jesus through the Word" as we dig into Acts 23. In this daily devotional, we explore Paul's chaotic trial before the Sanhedrin, a deadly conspiracy by forty men to end his life, and his dramatic nighttime Roman escort to Governor Felix in Caesarea—marking the beginning of his long imprisonment.Originally recorded as part of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church's three-year Bible study (2022-2024). To find out more, visit foresthillpca.org.

Heidelberg Catechism #32: Your Identity in ChristWhat does it actually mean to carry the name "Christian"? In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel dives into Question 32 of the Heidelberg Catechism to explore the profound identity and calling of every believer.Key Takeaways:United by Faith: Being a Christian means you are a member of Christ by faith and a partaker of His Holy Spirit anointing.The Threefold Office: Discover how you share in Christ’s roles:Prophet: Empowered to confess His name and speak His truth.Priest: Called to present your life as a living sacrifice of thankfulness.King: Equipped to fight a spiritual battle against sin and the devil, with the promise of reigning eternally with Christ.Scriptural Foundation: This teaching draws from 1 Peter 2:9, Romans 12:1, and 1 John 2:27 to ground your identity in God's Word.

Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Heidelberg Catechism Question 31, explaining the title "Christ" and its meaning as "Anointed". This devotion details Jesus’ three essential roles as our Prophet, Priest, and King, demonstrating how He is our all-sufficient Savior.

This 17-minute devotional, led by Pastoral Intern Michael Taliercio of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church, explores Acts chapter 22. The episode covers Paul’s defense before a hostile Jerusalem crowd, his conversion testimony, and a reflection on God’s grace and sovereignty in using even our backgrounds for His purposes.

In this 11th week of devotions, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel discusses Question 30 of the Heidelberg Catechism. He explores why salvation cannot be found in anyone or anything other than Jesus Christ, drawing on scriptures from 1 Corinthians, Galatians, Colossians, and Romans to demonstrate that Jesus is our complete righteousness. The devotion concludes with a musical performance of "Nothing but the Blood of Jesus".

In this devotional on Acts 21, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Paul’s determined journey to Jerusalem despite repeated prophetic warnings of his impending arrest.

In this Week 11 devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel examines Question 29 of the Heidelberg Catechism: "Why is the Son of God called Jesus, that is, Savior?" By exploring the Hebrew name Yeshua and key passages in Matthew 1, Hebrews 7, Isaiah 43, and Acts 4, the lesson demonstrates that Jesus is our only salvation from sin and must be true God, as only the Lord is Savior. The session concludes with a prayer and a performance of the hymn "Hallelujah! What a Savior."

This devotional explores Heidelberg Catechism Question 28, focusing on the practical benefits of trusting in God’s providence.Highlights:Practical Benefits: Understanding providence allows believers to be patient during adversity and thankful during times of prosperity.Future Confidence: It fosters a firm heart and confidence that nothing in creation can separate a believer from God’s love.Scriptural Foundation: The lesson draws on passages from Philippians, Job, 1 Thessalonians, and Romans to illustrate how God works all things for the good of His children.Worship: The session concludes with the hymn "The Solid Rock," reinforcing the theme of Christ as a secure foundation.

Journey through Acts - Finish the Course: Lessons from Paul’s Farewell in Acts 20Join Pastoral Intern Michael Taliercio from Forest Hill Presbyterian Church for a walk through Acts 20. This devotional explores the multi-ethnic nature of the early church, the miraculous raising of Eutychus, and Paul’s unwavering commitment to finishing his ministry despite facing certain suffering. Reflect on the power of the resurrection and what it means to faithfully submit to the "whole counsel of God" in our lives today.

In this episode of the Heidelberg Catechism devotions, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores the profound comfort found in Question 27: "What do you understand by the providence of God?"Highlights:The Meaning of Providence: Rather than an abstract concept, providence is God's active "provision"—His almighty power that upholds and governs every creature.Beyond "Luck" or "Chance": Pastor Jason emphasizes that nothing in a believer's life happens by accident. Whether it is "leaf and blade" or "health and sickness," all things come from God's fatherly hand.Scriptural Foundation: The devotion draws from Acts 14 and 17, Matthew 10, and Philippians 2 to show God's care for all humanity and even the smallest sparrows.The Practical "So What?": Because we are under God's care, we are free to live with thankfulness and contentment, choosing to judge our circumstances by God’s unchanging character rather than judging God by our circumstances."Everything comes to us not by chance, but by His fatherly hand." — Pastor Jason Van Bemmel

In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemmel explores Acts 19, focusing on Paul’s influential ministry in Ephesus. The chapter highlights the transition from the baptism of John to the power of the Holy Spirit, Paul’s two-year teaching tenure in the Hall of Tyrannus, and the dramatic spiritual shift that led to the burning of magic books worth millions. The session concludes by discussing the inevitable opposition that arises when the Gospel impacts local economies and challenges entrenched idolatry.

This devotional features Pastor Jason Van Bemmel of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church as he explores Question 26 of the Heidelberg Catechism. He breaks down the profound theological implications of confessing God as the "Father Almighty" and "Creator," emphasizing God’s roles as Sustainer, Provider, and personal Father through Jesus Christ.

In this devotional, Pastor Jason Van Bemel delves into the profound mystery of the Trinity through the lens of the Heidelberg Catechism (Questions 24–25). By exploring key scriptural passages from Genesis to Revelation, he explains how God is uniquely one, yet reveals himself as three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. From the plurality in the name Elohim to the baptism of Jesus and his divine claims in Revelation, this study offers a compelling look at the foundational doctrine of the triune God.