Rev. C. Vogelaar’s Farewell

On August 14, 2007, Rev. C. Vogelaar preached his farewell sermon to the saddened congregation of Kalamazoo, Michigan. He chose as his theme the prayer and promise for the Church found in 1 Peter 5:10, “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”

He spoke of this text as a prayer: first, to the God of all grace; second, for the Church in affliction; and third, for God's continuing care of His Church. Peter was a man of like passions as we are, warmhearted and impulsive. He was a man of faith; yet Jesus prayed that “when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” Peter needed a daily conversion from self-confidence to trust. Having experienced this himself, he writes this epistle to encourage and instruct a church in much trial. He admonishes the elders to feed the flock, to be good examples, to exercise humility and subjection toward each other. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for He careth for you” (verses 6&7). Peter knows the devices of Satan; therefore, he warns to be sober and to resist the devil. He also comforts them in two ways, by reminding them that afflictions are not strange but are part of God’s counsel (verse 9b); and by prayer to the God of all grace for the suffering church (verse 10).

Rev. Vogelaar said, “Peter knew of the need for seeking, convicting, and restoring grace, grace to empty us so that we may be filled through the work of the Mediator. This is the message that I have tried to bring for the last four years. Peter also knew the depth of grace. Do we know this work of grace? ...God is the fullness and fountain of all graces; seek it then at the fountain...all is in the Mediator alone. All of us are called by God who says, ‘Give me your heart.’ Peter speaks of an effectual call. I have tried to call, to allure you; may God open hearts like he did for Lydia.... And what has been your answer? Our eyes must be opened for our guilt of heart and life, and we must seek for the love of God shed abroad in our hearts.”

Rev. Vogelaar reminded his hearers to cast their cares on the God of all grace. He acknowledged the sustaining prayers of others for his ministry and urged closer communion of saints. He asked how his hearers had responded to his preaching concerning the need to be reconciled to God who knocks on the door of our hearts.

The Church is also called to eternal glory. Not worldly success, but suffering is the way to glory. We may think that we shall perish under suffering, but by divine blessing this is a means of sanctification in preparation for heaven. Thus, his people have to be drawn again and again to Christ. Rev. Vogelaar said, “I have always told you that God loves beggars.” Suffering is a light affliction, necessary to empty us and drive us to our knees for more grace to carry our cross. The Lord Jesus said, “My grace is sufficient for thee.” God promises to make His people perfect, which is Rev. Vogelaar’s wish for his hearers. God is not done with His Church; He will finish what He has undertaken. Ask for grace to bow, surrender, and hunger for God. Salvation is in none other.

Peter prays that the God of all grace “make you perfect,” that is, fit or prepared for service. Also that He “stablish, strengthen,” keep you firm and steadfast. He knows our weaknesses, but may we learn it as a reality for ourselves and find our strength in the mighty Lord Jesus. Peter also prays that God would “settle” them on the only true foundation in life, the blood and righteousness of the Lord Jesus Christ and His continuing intercession. Peter says He shall do these things for His Church; to Him be the glory. Rev. Vogelaar said, “This is my prayer which I leave in your midst.” He is able to part from our congregation with freedom in his heart and with the hope that we may lean only on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

He expressed his gratitude for friendship while recommending again communion of saints through Christ’s infinite merits. “Turn to the God of all grace. May God make you fit to be faithful on the walls of Jerusalem. Consistory, be not discouraged because the King lives. These were easy years; we worked together with love and unity; we were prayed for....May God bless you.”

Brief closing remarks of thanks, appreciation, and good wishes were spoken by Rev. Van Ruitenburg on behalf of Classis Far West, Rev. Adams for Classis Midwest, Rev. Den Hoed for Classis East, Elder Vlastuin on behalf of the Zwolle congregation, and Elder G. Moerdyk for the Kalamazoo congregation. The service closed with the singing of Psalter 357: “O Lord, refresh us by Thy grace, revive and quicken all our pow’rs.”

— Consistory of Kalamazoo

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