Grace Be With You

Benedictions spoken blessings at the end of church services and gatherings can be nuggets of gospel gold to cherish to as we part from each other for another week. Here Derek W. H. Thomas has selected benedictions spoken by his colleague and friend, Dale Ralph Davis, to encourage and inspire the reader. Best known for his Old Testament expositions, Davis knows the value of remembering and clinging to Gods promises.

Dale Ralph Davis retired from his post as Minister in Residence at First PresbyterianChurch in Columbia, South Carolina in Spring 2018, and was presented with this book to mark the occasion. Before coming to First Presbyterian Church he and his wife Barbara lived in Mississippi, Ralph having previously been pastor of WoodlandPresbyterian Church, Hattiesburg, Mississippi and Professor of Old Testament atReformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi, as well as writing a number of popular books.

Benedictions are gospel words. They remind us at the end of the service that we receivethe blessings of Gods covenant because Christ received its curses. After every service ofworship, we conclude with a reminder that, as Christians, we live under the shade of theAlmighty, taking refuge beneath His wings because, wonder of wonders, we are free fromthe condemnation of sin. Derek W. H. Thomas

But as the final hymn comes to an end, there is one last word of gospel grace as hepronounces the benediction Ralph Davis is as much preaching Gods word to you now ashe was in the sermon. He is not only praying for you; he is announcing to you all that isyours by faith in Christ. What a way to end the Lords Day and to begin the week. Sinclair B. Ferguson