Sermon text: John 6:22-29 (Scripture Reading: Romans 4:1-18; Other reading: Micah 6:1-16)
Message delivered by: Pastor Richard Stetler on July 26, 2026, at Resurrection Hope Congregation, Hartley, IA
There are many people who claim Jesus Christ as their Savior; however, they use this passage to vindicate their false notion that works will add to Jesus’ work on the cross to earn them a “right” to gain entry into heaven; even thinking that their faith is what saves them. However, what is really being taught? Like with all of Scripture we must interpret Scripture with Scripture. So, whatever we conclude from one verse or passage MUST fit with what the rest teaches; the clearer passages interpreting the ones that seem vague and not quite clear that may lead us to conclude a teaching that is inconsistent with what is revealed in the clearer passages of Scripture. In the message below, by God’s grace, a biblically sound understanding of this passage John Chapter 6 is expounded.
Click HERE for Sermon Outline.
Click below to hear the message delivered from John 6:22-29 (the video and audio are out of sync; it would better not to watch it but to listen to it; otherwise, it will be a little distracting):
MINISTRY UPDATE:
First, I want to let you know that the audio to last week’s message from John 6:16-21 was garbled; so, it didn’t get uploaded. Not sure what happened – still working out some of the cliches – thank you for your patience.
Regarding RGM – This weekend we will have booth at the Harley vendor fair, Lord willing (unless the heat is too much). Please keep us in prayer (Jay and Virginia will helping, too) as we talk to people about the Gospel of Jesus Christ and give away Bibles, books and other materials, including some booklets that I wrote over the past year. We also will be letting people know about Resurrection Hope Congregation – pray that the Lord will bless these efforts of faith and love for God and our neighbors here in Hartley.
Next month, Lord willing, we will be having a Gospel in the Park here in Hartley on August 22nd, starting 7 p.m. It will be held at the baseball field that is right off Hwy 18. I will bring a Gospel message, “Troubling Times, Troubled Hearts.” We will also have gospel singing that will be led by Elijah Anderson of Cornerstone United Reformed Church in Sanborn. If you are in the area, we would love to have you join us in this time of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the preaching of God’s word and singing. Please keep this event in your prayers.
I had a banner made to it could be seen from the highway (this beautiful banner was made by DeLeeuw Signs of Orange City, IA):
Then, on Labor Day, Lord willing, we have a booth at the Sheldon vendor fair also talking to people, giving away Bibles, books and other materials. Your prayers are greatly appreciated.
At this time, these are the planned RGM activities for 2026 as I am making adjustments to the changes in my life. Lord willing, in 2027 I hope, by God’s grace, to be able to do more. I am considering holding two conferences: one in Spencer, IA; not sure about the other one, though I am thinking of having a fall conference, which would be on discipleship as was planned for last fall, but had to cancel so I could care for Heidi in her final days in this world. Other events and activities will develop, as the Lord gives me opportunities and direction, as His unworthy servant.
Personal note:
Since the Lord took Heidi to be with Him at the beginning of January it has been a difficult time for me; struggle with the grief and sorrow as I miss her deeply. However, the Lord has been my strength and comfort through it all – His grace is abounding as He has kept my heart and spirit from falling into a state of self-pity and becoming self-absorbed. I know Heidi much to keep our house in order – I just didn’t realize to what extent it was. Looking to my faithful Savior for wisdom and direction – my reliance on His grace has become quite apparent – without Him I would be a total train wreck.
Because God’s grace and mercies have abounded towards me, I was able to fill the pulpits at a couple of churches: Rock Valley United Reformed Church for the first two weeks of June, leading the worship for the a.m. and p.m. services, preaching a series of message from John Chapter 3; then, on the first Lord’s Day of July, preached from John Chapter 4 at Zion Evangelical & Reformed Church in Garner, IA. It was a reassuring blessing from the Lord to be able to fill these pulpits.
No matter what God has planned for me, personally; for RGM and Resurrection Hope Congregation, I am praying that He will fill me with His Holy Spirit to strengthen to faithfully serve Him, according to His will and not mine.
Your prayers and support are greatly appreciated. Many blessings to you all!
Reformation Gospel Ministries 
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