Christ Church Balham Talks: Recent Episodes
Christ Church Balham
Why should we share our Christian story to those around us? In this passage we learn from the example of the Samaritan woman that the the Lord Jesus knows our story, and that He wants us to share our stories so that others may know Him. We are called to be active in reaping in the spiritual harvest, “Come and see the Saviour of the world!”
James shares from Matthew as we hear that Christians are salt and light in the world.Notes: We are salt Jesus is the light The Church is the light We are the light
Connor speaks from Colossians on being motivated to the fundamentals in the way Paul intended.
When we feel disappointed and disillusioned it can be tempting to look back to the past with nostalgic longing as though the ‘glory days’ are behind us. In this passage the Chronicler gets us to look back at Solomon’s kingdom in order that we might look forward to Jesus’ eternal kingdom to come.
Christians have been saved by grace alone through faith alone, but to what end? This passage challenges us to not just enjoy God’s forgiveness but to seek the expansion of the kingdom of God among the nations.Notes:With the temple built... ...the kingdom expands (vv1-6, 17-18) ...the nations ascend (vv7-11) ...the worship perpetuates (vv12-15)
It is often said that ‘clarity is kindness’, but how clear can we be of God’s love towards us, particularly given our ongoing struggles with sin? In this passage we are shown various reasons why we can be absolutely certain of God’s enduring love towards us
How do you respond to Jesus' grace? Often, we either respond with worried legalism, or with complacency. As we take a break from our regular series with Psalm 15 this week, we see how we are freed from both responses - and called to a better response to Jesus' call.Psalm 15 Notes: Thankful for the blameless one... (vv1-2a) ..live as the righteous one (vv2-5)
How does God feel about me? Does he really love me? When we feel unloveable, these are the questions can plague our hearts. Come find the solution to your worry in Zephaniah 3:9–20. See the astonishing love that God has for His people. Be encouraged to know that the Lord Jesus Himself rejoices over you with singing! The Lord will Purify His People (vv9-13) The Lord Rejoices over You (vv14-17) The Lord Will Restore You (vv18-20)
In a world of injustice, what hope is there? In today's sermon in Zephaniah we see how God's judgement means hope for God's people. Come and see how the refining fire of the Lord's judgement brings the justice we long for and points us to Jesus. Judgement for the Nations and Hope for Judah (2:4-15) a) Philistia (West) - vv4-7 b) Moab & Ammon (East) - vv8-11 c) Cush (South) - v12 d) Assyria (North) - vv13-15 God's People Fail... so wait for the Lord! (3:1-8)
Are you ready for the Day of the Lord? As we study Zephaniah together we will see how the Lord is coming to bring judgement to the whole world and the idols that cause us to stumble. The wrath of God is coming, but there is comfort for those who are humble and seek Him!
How is it that, in the ordinariness of every day life, Christians can live extraordinary lives in Jesus? Tom Barker answers this question as he takes us through 3 John.Walking In The Truth Ordinary Walk (vv1-4) Ordinary Hospitality (vv4-9) Ordinary Welcome (vv9-10) Extraordinary Good (vv11-14)
How is it that we can know the truth about Jesus, and what does the truth about Jesus mean for how we live for Him? Tom Barker takes us to the short letter of 2 John to find out.Contending in Truth Truth Lives (vv1-3) Truth Loves (vv4-7) Truth Discerns (vv8-13)
Our culture is crying out for forgiveness but where should we look? This passage is structured right at the centre of Solomon’s reign and reveals Kings heart for our forgiveness.
Living as we do in a world of broken promises, how can we expect God to keep his? In this ‘recap’ style passage we are encouraged to see how all of God’s promises as ‘yes’ in Christ.
Many of us go through life longing for permanence and stability but where should we look for this ‘forever home’? In this passage we discover how our King has done everything necessary to both bring God into us and also to prepare a place so that we might go to him. Celebrate God's Resting Rule Celebrate God's Permanent Place Celebrate God's Holy Habitation
As Christians we are all involved in a building project since both our bodies and the church are described as temples of the Holy Spirit. But how can we avoid building with either graceless perfectionism or with perfunctory ease? In this passage we meet a king who builds with quality upon the solid foundation of grace. Build in the right place Build with the best quality Build with humble confidence Build for and with the nations
When it comes to our relationship with our unbelieving culture, we are often tempted to swing towards two extremes: syncretism (blending in with the world) or separatism (retreating away from the world). In this passage King Solomon shows us a better way, being driven by a concern for God’s Name.
“The ends justify the means.” We all know that those who live by the mantra often end up as monsters, but to what extent do we pursue and pray for certain ends without concern for the means? In this passage we see how the King leads us towards the end goal of seeking God by not neglecting the means
We live in an unjust and cruel world, where evil is often seen to prevail over good. Where is God in this? As we consider the ‘Problem of Evil’, this passage may not give a complete answer, but it does give us the beginning of an answer.NOTES:Trial 1: Jewish Council - prejudiced but powerless (vv63-71)Trial 2: Pilate - savvy but spineless (vv1-7)Trial 3: Herod - curious but callous (vv8-12)Trial 4: Crowd - cruel and capricious (vv13-25)What does this passage reveal about......us?...Jesus?...God's plan?
What is it that motivates our hearts to deny Jesus? What is it that motivates Jesus’ heart to embrace us? In this passage we are given remarkable insight into the mind of our Saviour, who took on human flesh for us and our salvation
At a time when more and more young people are considering following Jesus, fewer and fewer are entering into full-time paid ministry. In this passage Jesus lays out to the future leaders of his church his expectations for ministry and well as correcting our motivations.
At this Women's Breakfast, Jo talks about Money in our Money, Sex, Power series.Passages:1. Proverbs 31:10-312. 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-193. 1 Thessalonians 2:8-9Discussion question:1. USE YOUR MONEY FOR YOUR HOUSEHOLD – Proverbs 31:10-31• What is our natural reaction to thinking about money and finances?• Is there anything that surprised us in this passage?• What impact do you think fearing the Lord has no the woman in this passage?2. USE YOUR MONEY FOR OTHERS – 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19• Where do you most see/ feel the pull to pursue more money and more stuff?• What most helps you to pursue contentment?• Can you remember a time when a Christian friend shared something with you?3. USE YOUR MONEY FOR THE GOSPEL – 1 Thessalonians 2:8-9• Who is someone you love, who you share life with, and would love to see come to know Jesus?• What is something they love, or that you love to do together?• Pray for them together.
What are Christians supposed to be thinking or feeling as we come to the Lord’s Table for communion? As Luke narrates Jesus’ last supper before his death we are encouraged to look forward to his return, look back to the cross, look around at our new family, and look within to check we come with repentance. The Lord's Sell-out (v1-6) The Lord's Sovereignty (v7-13) The Lord's Supper (v14-23) Look around Look forward Look back Look within
What is the hope for the diverse people of God in the midst of suffering? In this passage we see the hope of the nations. That God will save His people, and that His church is a diverse body of all then nations that will praise Jesus forever.1) God will seal his servants v.1-32) God will save the Nations v. 4-123) God will comfort his people v. 13-17
How can people from totally different backgrounds truly live together in unity? In Colossians 3:11–15 Paul shows us how the gospel gives us a new shared identity in Christ which reshapes the way we treat one another. Unity in our diversity, Christ is all in all!1. Christ brings Unity (v.11)2. Unity brings Love (v.12-14)3. We are One Body in Christ (v.15)
Why is it that Christians can be so easily drawn into hedonism, escapism or activism? In this passage Jesus tells us how we should live while we wait for his return, and how knowing about the events of AD70 can help us
Why should we bother contuining in costly discipleship when we feel our best efforts are but a drop in the ocean? In this passage Jesus both comforts those who feel unseen and undervalued, as well as challenging us to give in the same way that he gave for us.
In so many walks of life it is easy to allow ourselves to be distracted by what is irrelevant and so miss out on what is vital. In this passage Jesus warns us that not all those who would seek to lead and teach us are exhibiting faithful ministry.
We now live in a culture highly cynical of anyone in authority over us, but how should Christians be different? In this civilisation-transforming passage Jesus establishes how we should relate to rulers of this world, whilst living as citizens of the kingdom of God.
Why do people so often mistake Jesus’ good news for bad news? In this section of Luke’s gospel Jesus comes to Jerusalem to bring salvation and yet is roundly rejected by the religious leaders. Their reasons for doing so may reveal something of our own hearts and our need for forgiveness.
Visiting speaker, Matt Fuller, preaches on the power of prayer and how nothing we ask for is too big for our God as we ask in Jesus' name.
How has Jesus coming to earth as a baby at Christmas changed the world, and how should we respond? The book of Hebrews gives us four reasons to worship the incarnate Lord, and spur us on to be more like him in a new year.
How is it that the Christmas story meets our deepest needs? In this sermon we see how the prophet Micah foretold the world-changing birth of Jesus more than seven hundred years before it happened. How should we respond?
Come and find the gift of Christmas. We can’t find the words to describe God’s love for us, but we can see it made manifest in His gift for us. In John’s letter he reminds that because of God’s great love for us He send us his Son Jesus, so that we find life in him and truly love others.
What questions do we need answered before we will joyfully and willingly give generously to the needs of the church? In this passage Paul removes a number of stones from the soil so that the church might turn the gospel planted in them into an abundant crop of righteousness.
God created sexual desire on purpose. Its good. But what IS God's design for sex? But what does that mean if you are single? Or if even if you are married? OR if abuse in your background has brought suffering? Find out about God's design for us as sexual beings and his purpose in making us this way! It's a good thing, it's a God thing and Christian women need to start talking about it much more openly.
Money is power, and who would willingly relinquish power!? The beauty of the Christian message is that it motivates us to be generous, not through guilt or fear, but by God’s grace overflowing from Jesus Christ.
When the church has become compromised or contaminated by the world, what will it take for our hearts to actually desire to repent? In these chapters Paul makes a passionate appeal for the Corinthians to repent whilst at the same time convincing them that he is absolutely for them.
Being a public follower of Jesus is undoubtedly hazardous, so we need to know: is it worth the risk? In this passage Paul persuades that it is worth sticking with his gospel, because in Christ we are given a new start and a new job.
This week we see God's power in human weakness. In Samson we see the danger of sinful habits, but more so the grace of God. Come and see how Samson, the weak saviour, points us to the true and better saviour, Jesus.
What kind of saviour do we need? In today’s passage we see that Samson is the hero we deserve, he is just like us, but not the one we need. We need a saviour who is pure and fights for his people out of love rather than revenge.
Who will deliver us from the cycle of idolatry and oppression in our lives? In Judges 13 we see that Israel, and us, are trapped in a cycle of misery that is of our own making. But God moves in grace to send us a deliverer. We need a God-sent deliverer who can deliver us once and for all.
If Christians are a living advert for Jesus’ kingdom, do our various weaknesses and failings help or hinder? In this beautiful passage Paul maps his ministry onto the pattern established by Jesus - he does not work despite our weaknesses, he works through them.
Many of us find the prospect of sharing Jesus with others difficult, especially when we experience mixed results. What will keep us from either losing heart or changing our message so that it is more palatable? In this passage we learn from Paul what keeps him from losing heart and giving up altogether.
Is our good news really that glorious if it keeps getting mixed reviews from those we share it with? In this passage Paul responds to accusations that his gospel lacks glory by showing how it differs from the merit-based ‘gospel’ being pedalled by the super-apostles in Corinth.
Sharing the good news of Jesus with others can be a daunting prospect, so what qualifies us for this ministry? In this passage we are encouraged to see that the same gospel which saves us is the same one which equips us to herald Christ to the world around us.
With Paul’s relationship to the Corinthian church under threat, how can he convince them (and us) of the biblical pattern of ministry? Why is integrity so important to leadership?
What does an authentic Christian life look like in a world marked by weakness and struggle? How can we experience God’s comfort in our own trials and then extend that comfort to others? Discover how true gospel living reflects God’s heart—bringing encouragement, endurance, and hope to those in need.
What does a profitable ministry look like? How can we ensure that our lives as individual Christians are productive? Titus 3 holds the answer…
At this special Ordination service Tim Davies guides us through Acts as the early church encounters problems as it grows and decides its priorities based on Jesus' principles.
Many of us go through life desperate to win people’s approval, whether our parents, our bosses, or a significant other. But how can we know if we have God’s approval? In this passage we are shown where we should look and where we should not look for certainty.
The New Testament teaches that in Christ we are a new creation, but in this passage we see why it is so necessary for demolition to precede construction. For God to build up, he must first tear down.
How can we be made eternally safe? Noah’s ark is often dismissed as just being only for children, but the message is profound. In anticipation of Jesus Christ, here we see a righteous redeemer building a safe sanctuary in order to redeem creation from corruption.
If dying is simply a natural biological process (as some argue), then why does it just feel so wrong? In this very strange passage we see not only what causes death, but also where living hope can be found.
What actually IS rest?? Jesus answers the question - with masses of grace and lots of surprise too. Discover the vital role that believers play in helping each other experience this rest.
How restful is your home? Discover why that is a biblical question, and how we haven’t yet arrived in the ultimate place of rest.
How much does God care about rest? And how can we find rest in a restless and busy world?
How do we make sense of our world, which is so full of beauty and joy, and also much pain and heartache? Genesis 4 is our first glimpse of life outside Eden and as such it contains so much explanatory power as we continue our search for the promised serpent crusher.
What was humanity created for? In Genesis 2 we discover that Adam’s story is a microcosm of Israel’s story. But where Adam, Israel, and we have failed, Jesus Christ succeeded. We root our purpose in him.
As a result of being encouraged to manufacture our own meaning and purpose in life, we live in a confused and anxious culture. It is liberating to see how Genesis 1 shows us the Creator who gives us a clear identity, ethics and purpose in life.
You can change! Jesus gives gigantic hope and the essential key to how we can bear beautiful fruit in our lives.
In a confusing, uncertain and threatening world, Jesus speaks with crystal clarity - he is the only way to God.
Distinctives - Why we believe what we believe that is secondary but important. Why we baptise infants of believers.
Why did Jesus call himself “the gate”? Discover the warning, the challenge and the life-giving invitation of Jesus’ words…
Distinctives - Why we believe what we believe that is secondary but important. Why we are not homogenous.
What does Jesus mean when he calls himself “the Light of the world”? A daring and divine claim that is both life-giving and calls for a very serious response.
Guest preacher James Poole (Wycliffe Bible Translators) begins our I AM series - exploring the divine claims of Jesus and the life he gives. As “The Bread of Life”, he is what we need to live, and we access him through his words of life.
Paul brings his letter to a close with a barrage of diverse commands, but all of them relate to the practical mechanics of how we might continue to grow in holiness and hope in the midst of hardship.
How is that Christians can grieve with certain hope? In this passage Paul explains that our eternal future is tied to Christ’s death, resurrection and return - which transforms not only how we die, but also how we live.
Distinctives - Why we believe what we believe that is secondary but important. Why we value arts and culture.
How ambitious should we be as Christians with regards to sexual holiness and generosity? By what standard should we measure whether we are sanctified enough? In this passage we see Paul’s fatherly heart for the Thessalonians as he encourages them to pursue holiness and love "more and more"
Distinctives - Why we believe what we believe that is secondary but important. Why we embrace spiritual gifts.
If God works when God’s people endure suffering through hearing God’s word, then what is Satan’s counter-work? And how might we counter his counter-work? Through lovingly longing, encouraging and strengthening, and praying.
Distinctives - Why we believe what we believe that is secondary but important. Why we are Sacramental.
When is God at work? In this passage we see how God is powerfully operating in his church, through the preaching of his word, in order that those in Christ would endure suffering with him
The credibility of a message is inevitably tied to the credibility of the messenger. In this passage we learn a great deal about Paul’s pattern of ministry, so that we can be effective and Christ-like leaders and messengers of the gospel.
Distinctives - Why we believe what we believe that is secondary but important. Why we have bishops.
What are the most important things to communicate to new Christians who’ve just begun following Jesus in a hostile city? In lieu of a proper onboarding, Paul writes to the Thessalonians to reassure them of where they are, what is normal, and why they exist.
Distinctives - Why we believe what we believe that is secondary but important. Why are we Anglican?
For our Co-Mission Sunday this year, Rob Newham, pastor of Becontree Church, speaks on Ezekiel 37 - the Valley of Dry Bones.
Christian Fielder, one of our elders, draws together themes from the first book of the Bible, Genesis, and shows, from the book of Galatians, how it is fulfilled in the coming of Jesus.
Our guest speaker, Yannick Christos-Wahab, from Stockwell Baptist Church, takes us to the book of Revelation, and shows how Christmas reminds us that we have the victory, and have a glorious future to look forward to.
What is the appropriate emotional response to the coming of the King? Joy, sorrow, or both? In this passage, Jesus demonstrates his absolute sovereign control over his mission to win peace between God and man.
What does Jesus want us to do while we wait for his return? This parable is a massive encouragement for us to keep busy with the king’s business. Sermon includes a deleted scene!
What sort of people does Jesus want on his team? In this passage Luke completely pulls the rug out from under our feet by demonstrating how Jesus shows mercy to the least likely person! Will we respond like the crowd or like Zacchaeus?
Why is it that some people 'see' who Jesus is and others don't? Is it just a matter of intelligent investigation? In this passage we are surprised to see that those who really should have seen Jesus do not whereas a man who really should not have seen Jesus does!
Why doesn’t God just instantly change me? Why do things take so long? Discover the surprising truth that God highly values process; and it’s crucial we know what the goal is.
Should your body be amazing, or is it not really you anyway? Amidst confusing messages from our world, God speaks with clarity about how good our physical bodies are, with huge implications for our lives and worship.
Why do we never have enough time? Part 2 of this series explores how to live wisely within our good, God-given limits in time.
Can our limits be good? In this first of a topical series, Jonny explores the goodness of humility as foundational to our humanity - dependent on God and on people.
"Sell everything you have and give to the poor". This is perhaps Jesus' hardest teaching, so how do we make sense of it without blunting its impact? What is the relationship between wealth and salvation? What claim does Jesus have on our spending habits and use of money?
How old do you need to be to enter God’s kingdom? This might seem a strange question, but it is one of the areas where Bible believing Christians often disagree. In this passage Jesus not only overturns the prevailing worldview of his day, but also challenges us not to hinder little ones from coming to him.
It has been widely observed by both Christian and secular social commentators that self-righteousness is the human 'default' mode of operation. But why is that? Discover how the way of Jesus transforms not our understanding of how we are saved, but also how we consider ourselves in relation to others.
We live in a broken world where often the ‘little people’ suffer at the hands of the more powerful, but Christians in the West are largely untouched and unmoved by such injustices. In this parable Jesus offers both a comfort to those persistently praying for justice, and a challenge for those who are not.
When will God make the world right again? In this passage Jesus warns that many who say that they are longing for the Kingdom of God are actually unprepared. How can we be safe for the day the Son of Man comes?
What is the impact of gratitude upon our spiritual health? As Jesus continues his journey to Jerusalem we discover his intent to bring spiritual cleansing and restoration to those who are diseased and at a distance.
David meditates on seeing, hearing and responding to God. We can also know God by knowing the Son who is the radiance of God's glory.
David praises God for rescuing him from his enemies and establishing his kingship. Find out how we too can sing of victory - in Christ.
In this Psalm we'll see how God rescues and delivers those who are righteous in His eyes from their enemies. He is the one who vindicates and rescues!
As we continue our series looking at the Psalms of David, we'll find out how we can find the security of knowing God, and finding refuge in him.
Psalm 15 wonderfully points us to Jesus. In this Psalm we unpack what it would be like to be in God's dwelling place and who gets to go there.
For our Mission Sunday, Pete Judkins, one of our mission partners, speaks about how we can celebrity our diversity in the church, as we partner in the gospel together to the glory of God.
Abraham died well, under God's blessing, and the line of promise continued on to Isaac as sole inheritor who prefigures Christ as the heir of all things. Christ is the only Son of the Father, for whom all things exist. We find our purpose and blessing when we discover that we exist for him.
Dr Naomi Carle speaks on the topic of ‘Literature for Life.’ She explores why, how and what we should read as we seek to share the gospel in our every day lives.
Just as Abraham lived by faith as he sought out a wife for his son, so we can have confidence in God’s providence as he unfolds his salvation plan.
Find out how Abraham possessed (some of) the Promised Land, as God promised, as we think about what it means to go home to God.
Find out how we can love London with the gospel, as we consider the challenge of Jesus to share our faith.
God tests Abraham's faith on the mountain of the Lord, and provides a sacrificial lamb so that his people may live.
Worship God for his sovereignty for he miraculously kept his promises to bring his elect people into existence. Rejoice that the Lord Jesus also miraculously fulfilled all God's promises.
Through Abraham, the prophet with many faults, a representative of a foreign nation comes to understand how God will bring blessing to the nations, through Christ, the Final Prophet who intercedes for us, covering all our faults.
The Lord shows Abraham his just judgement in his dealings with the wicked people of Sodom. We come to know that he will judge the world with justice, and our only hope is in Jesus.
God meets us in the darkness of the mess we make. Sin has horrendous consequences. But God abounds in grace, showing special honour to the oppressed.
The LORD reiterates his commitment to his covenant partner Abram. Christ was cut (his body broken) to secure our covenant. Therefore trust God’s promise, finding assurance in how Christ was broken to secure our covenant.
Abram is a victorious rescuer, yet God's priest-king is greater. However impressive many leaders are, Jesus is supreme! He alone is God's priest-king forever.
Where will you make your home? Abram and Lot show us two opposite approaches - to live by sight, or to live by faith.
We all need a fresh start. Here we encounter God giving a fresh start to the whole world - Eden is coming back!
In this talk, we'll consider themes of faith, family and forgiveness as we look at the whole of the book of Philemon
Join us in the last chapter of 1 Peter as we look at what kind of attributes and characteristics elders in the church should have, and how we should relate to them with humility in the light of our future hope in Christ.
Many of us are driven through life with a desire for acclaim and to make a name for ourselves. But Jesus was clear that following means facing shame and hatred for the sake of his name. So why would anyone choose to identify with Jesus in his suffering?
What is the great hope of the Christian life - to be free from suffering, or to be like Christ? In this passage the Apostle Peter shows how God uses our suffering to make us more like Christ - to put to death our sin for sin, and to prepare us for glory.
How should Christians respond to injustice and persecution? Some of us are tempted to shrink back, whilst others of us are tempted to fight back. But the Lord Jesus Christ shows us a better way, which opens the door to share the reason for the hope that we have.
Peter's letter continues to help Christians see how to live as exiles in this world, this time particularly focussing on aspects of God's beautiful and counter-cultural design for marriage.
How do we live in this world as God’s holy people? Withdraw like monks? Blend in? Listen to Peter’s simple strategy, and his surprising focus.
In a culture where we are being publicly shamed for following Jesus, what will make us speak up about him? Peter’s strategy is to show us how our identity and purpose are all wrapped up with Christ, our Cornerstone.
Is it possible to be a solo Christian? In this passage the Apostle Peter explains how holiness is utterly relational, and that we have been saved in order to love one another within the family of God.
Christians will always be under pressure to conform to the thinking and values of the culture around us, so how can we resist? Peter maps our experience onto the Exodus generation, encouraging us to keep our eyes looking forward to Christ’s return, up to our holy Father, and back to the Lamb’s sacrifice.
What accounts for how different people respond to suffering in different ways? Peter encourages his exiled readers to respond with joy and praise because of the certain resurrection hope that is theirs in Christ.
Peter’s introduction and closing greeting helps capture the theme of the letter - that Christians live in this world as exiles. We should expect difficulty, and yet know we are deeply loved by our Triune God.
In this talk from guest speaker Tim Saunders we are reminded about the good news of the gospel we have, and are encouraged to share it with others, and consider how we can play a part in God's harvest today.
Isaiah 9 is a familiar passage featured in the traditional 9 Lessons and Carols, but what is it actually all about? As we look at the context of these verses, discover the amazing things that God has promised.
Jesus continues his interactions at a dinner party. This time he addresses his followers. We are challenged to think about the way we treat one another as part of God's family.
Jesus continues to teach important truths about the gospel through parables. In this passage, we'll learn how to avoid the dangers of both license and legalism, and discover how you can truly find salvation.
Join us as we look at the parable of the shrewd manager, and find out the radical and unexpected way in which Jesus directs us to use our money and resources.
In this parable of Jesus, we discover how there is hope for all of us in Jesus - no matter how far we have wandered from God.
As you hear about the parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin, you'll discover the joy of knowing just how much Jesus loves and values you.
In the final part of this series on preaching, find out how the Spirit reveals the Son through preaching, and works in our hearts as we listen.
The goal of Scripture, and therefore preaching, is to come personally to Jesus for life. Discover how listening to preaching is not just for information, but for a relationship with Jesus.
What actually is preaching? Why do we value it? This is the first of three sermons, exploring how each Person of the Trinity helps us grasp what to expect in preaching. Here we see that God the Father himself preaches, through humans, for life.
As we thank God for 21 years at Christ Church Balham, Richard Perkins, the founding minister of the church, challenges us from the book of Colossians to consider what we should do next as Christians and as a church.
Jesus challenges those who are considering following Him to seriously consider what it truly involves. Following Jesus means counting the cost, but trusting in Him means that there's comfort and hope for all of us who are lost and fail.
As Jesus continues to spent time with those at the dinner party he is attending, he challenges the guests to consider the invitation to enter the kingdom of God. In this passage we too are challenged to think about what we will do with the invitation we have received.
Jesus uses a dinner party to teach his guests the importance of humility and avoiding self-righteousness. We are challenged along the way to think about how we find our worth, and how we show our love to others.
Following Jesus can be hard, but there is plenty to encourage us as we walk along the way set out by Jesus. There is nothing that can stop His mission!
As we take a look in the gospel of Luke, and consider the maze of options the world presents, discover why only Jesus' narrow door leads to life.
What are you singing about right now? What songs would you put on the album of your life? We all sing to something, but in Psalm 100, we will discover good reason why everyone can and should sing and shout to the Lord!
We are called to sing praises to God. But what difference does it make when we know that God is a holy God? As we take a look at Psalm 99, we'll find out more about our holy God and how we can sing praises worthy of who He is.
We were made to sing to the Lord a new song, proclaiming His goodness in harmony with all of creation. So how does this play out in our lives? What if we don't feel like singing? Let's explore Psalm 98 together and discover just how deep the foundations of our praise to God should be.
In this sermon from CCB mission partner Connor Perring, we hear about how good it is to worship the Lord and how shameful it is to worship anything else. Join us as we look at Psalm 97 and see how good it is for the nations to worship the Lord!
There is much reason to give God praise and Psalm 96 calls all nations to do just that. Christianity is not for one nation or people group but for all people across the earth to hear of the good news found in Jesus Christ. May the nations and all creation sing the praises of God, for He is worthy to be praised!
Psalm 95 is a wonderful encouragement for all people to praise the Lord! While the opening verses of Psalm 95 give good reason to praise the Lord, the finishing verses end with a stern warning. Life is difficult and it is easy for us to turn to other "gods" to give us what we think we need, but may we not turn away from praising the Lord and trust Him in the unknowns of life.
The king is generous, the people are willing, and the LORD is abundant. In the final chapter of 1 Chronicles we see all of Israel being called to consecrate themselves to the Lord. Men and women, old and young, each individual is valued in the kingdom and invited to generously take part in the Lord's work!
God is building His kingdom and His people are involved in the work. Just as David passed on clear instructions to his son Solomon, so we too have received clear instructions to take part in the work God is doing.
The king brings unity to a diverse people, and then appoints a diverse leadership to keep his people united. Unity amidst diversity is how God designed His church to grow and mature today.
Every person matters in the body of Christ. In the temple of the Lord people were involved in many different types of service, but they were all necessary and important. In the church today it is much the same and there is need for all of us to do our part in serving the Lord and serving one another.
On this missions Sunday at CCB we hear from guest speaker Rupert Shelley from Crosslinks. Looking at Psalm 72 we see a coronation speech for a king, but it isn't just a coronation speech for king Solomon, it also looks forward to the future reign of Jesus Christ. In this kingdom there is justice, righteousness, and hope for all those who are oppressed and in need. This kingdom is a kingdom to look forward to and share the good news about with others.
Who will you serve? Will you be a slave to sin that leads to death? Or will you be a slave to righteousness that leads to eternal life? In this sermon from Romans chapter 6 we look at this important and surprisingly life-giving and hopeful chapter.
If God is a God of grace, does that mean sin doesn't matter? In this mini-series on Romans 6, Jonny Burgess is teaching on the incredible gift of God's grace and how it frees us from the power of sin. When you understand who you are in Christ, your perspective on yourself and the world shifts. Suddenly you realize a new freedom that you never thought possible before. Listen as we seek to understand how God's grace sets us free to live a new life in Him!
King David knew the task of building the temple of the Lord was massive and that his son Solomon would need help. So he provided an enormous amount of raw materials and prepared labourers to help with the construction. Like Solomon we have a huge task facing us to reach the world with the good news of the gospel. Also like Solomon, we have been given what we need for this massive task. We have been equipped by the King of Kings Himself to bring good news to the world around us!
Where do you find your security? Do you find security in your finances? Your boyfriend or girlfriend? Your status or job title? The amount of people following you online? Ironically if we look to ourselves to secure our own security it ends up leaving us more insecure than before, but more than that it is actually an affront to God, who has graciously offered us eternal security in Him. If you're wondering where to find security this would be a good sermon to listen to.
When you feel like a minority as a Christian or feel like you have chosen the losing team, this sermon is a good reminder of the victory that is available to you through Jesus Christ. Even if you are the only Christian in your workplace, your family, or friend group, take heart that God cares for all those who have bowed their knee in submission to Him.
Where do you find your self-worth? Do you find it in your work, your achievements, your friends or family? There are many things that we may look to for value and meaning. When it comes to your standing before God, what do you rely on? Do you look to your morality, church attendance, or community service for worth before Him? In 1 Chronicles 17:16-27 king David recognizes that his worth and value come from God. It was God who exalted king David and it was God who made and fulfilled His promises to him. Knowing that God establishes us firmly in Him by grace through faith, we can confidently draw near to Him in prayer. We know how the story ends and we know that God keeps His promises, let us place our worth in the One who gave His life for us and promises us a future with Him.
How will you be remembered? Or maybe a better question, will you be remembered? It can be easy to spend our lives trying to leave a mark on the world, to make an impact, to establish a legacy. But as all too often happens, the pursuit to build a legacy often ends in either pride or despair. In 1 Chronicles 17 king David wanted to build a permanent house for the Lord, but instead of David establishing God's house, God established David's. When we recognize that Jesus has already established His people, we can find security, hope, and rest for the future.
On the road to Emmaus two disciples were walking away from Jerusalem, walking away from where they had hoped Jesus would ring in the Kingdom of God, walking away from the life they had been living for the last several years. For these disciples, the crucifixion of Jesus was not what they had in mind. Following Jesus had turned out differently than they hoped or expected. What about you? Has following Jesus looked differently than what you expected? Join us for this talk on Luke 24:13-35 from mission partner Connor Perring. We will look at the mindset of the disciples that were walking on the road to Emmaus and see how Jesus brought great hope amidst their disappointment.
This is session 11 in our Bible overview series entitled 'His Story', this week we finish off with the last days in the book of Revelation.
Although things had looked hopeless for the Jews, God gave them victory over those who had sought their destruction. What had been shaping up to be a tragedy ended in triumph. We can take great hope and encouragement from this great reversal story that God is at work even in the darkest of times. Join us for this last sermon as we finish out the book of Esther and learn that God got the last laugh in this story.
This is session 10 in our Bible overview series entitled 'His Story', this week is part 3 of 3 covering the new covenant.
"God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6). When everything in his pride-filled world seemed to be going well, Haman's life suddenly came to ruin and God saved His people. Haman was honoured among the king's closest officials but ultimately he was living his life in opposition to God. In a matter of days he went from high praise to humiliating ruin. In this incredible reversal story from the book of Esther, we see that God is always in control. Even when things look hopeless, God is at work.
This is session 9 in our Bible overview series entitled 'His Story', this week is part 2 of 3 covering the new covenant.
It is crunch time for Esther and the Jews. A global edict has gone forth and proclaimed their complete annihilation in less than one year's time. Unbeknownst to the Persian empire, their very own queen is of Jewish descent. Has God placed Esther in this position to bring about salvation for His people? It is dangerous and nothing is sure, but Esther has a decision to make. Will she try to fit in with the royal court or will she risk identifying herself with the Jews?What about you? Where do you find your identity? Will you live unashamedly for Jesus in this world or will you try to fit in with whatever crowd you're around? It's crunch time, who are you going to side with?
This is session 8 in our Bible overview series entitled 'His Story', this week is part 1 of 3 covering the new covenant.
All looks dark in the world of Esther chapter 3. God's people have an enemy that is seeking their complete destruction and the most powerful person on the planet has sealed the plan with his signet ring. The world is dark, dangerous, and hostile to God's people. In such a time, how are they to respond? Unfortunately persecution of God's people is still a reality today. Every year Christians die for their faith and are faced with the reality of being an unpopular minority in a world bent on power and greed. So what do you do, where do you go for hope? Join us as we continue this mini-series in the book of Esther.
This is session 7 in our Bible overview series, this week we cover the Davidic covenant.
What do you do when it feels like God is silent? What if all around you things look hopeless and dangerous? This is where the story of Esther picks up; the Persian king Xerxes is on the throne and he appears to be all powerful and in control of the entire known world... or is he? It turns out there is much that we can take comfort in from the book of Esther. It isn't in amazing miracles or wonderful signs from God, but in the backdrop of the whole story you see God silently working out the details of His good plan. How might God be at work even in the mundane details of your life?
How can I be a good person? What will motivate me and change me to do good? The simple answer is God's grace. As stressed throughout his letter to Titus, Paul writes that it is the grace of God that changes people and motivates them to do good. If you want to be a good person that does good towards others, you must start by turning to God in repentance and relying on His grace to transform you. This is the final talk in our sermon series on Titus, showing us how only the good news can make us good people.
What makes Christianity different than other religions? While every other religion in the world speaks of salvation through works, Christianity teaches about salvation as a free gift of God. As a result, Christians are called to humility and love, to be peaceable and considerate, to remember their status before God was not earned but given. But why is it so easy to feel self-righteous? Why is it so easy to be proud or boastful? This week we look into these questions and see how God's free gift of eternal life sets us free to live humbly in love towards God and others.
In this Bible overview session we take a look at the Levitical Covenant and how that fits into the big picture of the Bible.
What is the grace of God and how does that change our lives? Surprisingly the answer to this question can easily lead people multiple errors of life and doctrine. For some God's grace is seen as a license to sin. For others the grace of God isn't seen to be enough and they desire to add requirements for salvation. But if both those are incorrect ways of viewing God's grace, how can we understand it from the Bible? In this passage from Titus 2:11-15 that question is answered, and it is quite hopeful and benefits us and others.
How can I be more self-controlled? It isn't a common question in our culture as it often isn't aspired to. However, Paul saw self-control as a key part of the Cretan church growing in godliness. In fact, growing in self-control was one of the ways that the church would model the goodness of the gospel by the way they lived their lives.
In session 4 of our Bible overview series we look at the covenant God made with Abraham.
Who is going to watch the watchmen? Whether it be a church minister or a politician, we are all too familiar with being disappointed and hurt by our leaders. But knowing the susceptibility people have to fail and falter, Paul instructed Titus to find Elders who were well qualified to lead the church. Above skills and abilities, Titus was instructed to find men of character, men who could keep each other accountable and lead the church faithfully.
This week in our Bible overview we look at the Noahic covenant. In the early chapters of Genesis there are many things that happen, Adam and Eve are exiled from the garden of Eden, Cain kills Abel, Lamech boasts of his murder, and God saves Noah and those with him in the Ark. Judgment was brought over the earth and new creation imagery emerges after the flood. So how does all this fit in with the grand narrative of the Bible, how does it point to Jesus, and what does it mean for us today? Join us as we look at session 3 in our Bible overview.
This is a hope-filled message looking at how the knowledge of the truth leads to godliness, and how there is great hope in God's promise of eternal life.
In session 2 of our Bible overview series we look at the Adamic covenant. What happened in the opening chapters of Genesis, why does it matter, and how do we see those themes continued throughout the rest of the Bible? If you've never understood the connection between the creation account in Genesis and the rest of the Bible, this is a good place to start. Drawing on art, history, and observations from great thinkers of our time, Andy Palmer lays out the importance of understanding the Adamic covenant and it's role in the Biblical narrative as well as it's impact on the world.
What is the Bible about? It is a book that has had a profound impact on the world yet we often don't realize how significant it's message really is. In this first session Andy Palmer walks through a Bible overview and why it is relevant and important for us to understand today. If you've ever wondered what the 66 books of the Bible are getting at or how they fit together, this is a good place to start. If you are wondering what the Christian faith is all about, this series is for you. If you've been in the church for a long time yet never understood the cohesive story from Genesis to Revelation, you will find this Bible overview helpful. Join us as we explore the themes and continuity that is found all over the Bible.
How does the knowledge that Jesus is still actively working in the lives of people today change our perspective? While we see Jesus' earthly ministry in the Gospels, Acts records the continued work of Jesus through His followers. In addition to the eyewitness accounts recorded in the Bible there are countless stories of Jesus working through His people throughout the centuries all the way up to our present day. In this talk from guest speaker Matt Dew-Jones we hear about the certainty we can have that Jesus is still at work today and how we can be confident in that reality.
As a new year begins you may have goals or resolutions that you have set to become a better person or be happier or accomplish something worthwhile. While all those things can be helpful, sometimes it can subtly undermine the way we think about salvation. We can go from a mindset of being saved by grace through faith to one of being saved by our own efforts to be better. As this new year begins, with it's new hopes, dreams, and goals, remember your position in Christ; and the security, hope, and rest that He alone can bring.
How should Christians view the Sabbath? It's a short question that has sparked controversies for centuries. Some desire to make a long list of rules while others wish to do whatever they please. But what can we learn from Jesus in this story from Luke 13? Join us as we discover the good rest God gives His people!
Why is there evil and suffering in the world? Why is there division in families? Why is there pain, hardship, and sorrows? It doesn't take long to recognize that this world is broken and filled with suffering. But if God is good why would He allow suffering, why doesn't He fix all the wrongs in the world? It is natural to wrestle with these questions as we deal with the painful realities of our lives. In Luke 12:49-13:9 we learn more about the purpose of suffering and how God uses it to awaken us to our need for repentance and forgiveness. Listen in on this important topic and learn more fully how you can think about suffering in this world.
Jesus said to be watchful and ready for His return because He would come on a day and hour when it wasn't expected. Are you ready for the return of Christ? In this week's passage from Luke chapter 12, we look at the story Jesus told of some watchful servants waiting for their masters return. Those who were found ready were rewarded but those who were caught off guard in their disobedience received many blows. As followers of Christ we eagerly wait for His return, but it is easy like some of the servants in this parable to be caught off guard. Listen in as we learn and talk about how to be ready for the return of Christ.
How can you live a happy life and be secure? Does money make you happier or let you enjoy life more? Does money bring you security? Although these things promise life and security, the irony is that it often can rob you of truly living and leave you feeling insecure. If you're looking for true life and real security, find it in Jesus today.
How can I get over my fear of people? In this passage Jesus answers that question and teaches the importance of fearing God instead of people. Fearing people often leads to a level of hypocrisy that shape shifts depending on your circumstance. But fearing God and understanding His forgiveness will lead to a sense of freedom and authenticity in your life.
What is the biggest danger facing the church today? While it may be easy to point fingers outside the church, in today's passage Jesus brings our attention to problems within the church. The hypocrisy of the religiously zealous, morally conservative, outwardly clean people pose the biggest threat to the health of the church. Although it is an uncomfortable passage, it brings up important themes for us to consider in our lives today.
What does it take for people to believe in Jesus? Is it persuasive reasoning, indisputable facts, or a polished presentation? During Jesus' ministry crowds of people listened to His teaching, but many of them did not repent and believe. Often these people demanded another piece of evidence, a sign, or miracle. But was another sign or miracle really what these people needed? This week we look at the clear signs that Jesus gave to prove that He is God and the stubbornness of the people's hearts to repent and believe.
Friendship is not law, it isn't Gospel, but it is wisdom. In this talk we look at God's wisdom for friendship and how to be a good friend. Friendship takes effort but it is an excellent gift from God that is worth the time and energy.
Have you ever thought about the role of friendships in your life or how the Bible speak about friendships? It is an important area of life and yet many of us probably haven't thought about it on a deep level. What is the purpose of friendship? Join us as we explore this topic of friendship and what the Bible has to say about it.
For this terms series at Dwell, we are thinking about current real life topics Christians are facing in society. This week Jonny, along with Jo Evans discuss how we, as Christians, can balance and enjoy a life of work and rest because God designed them both. There's a great Q & A at the end for any questions you may have along the way.
How will you respond to Jesus? You may have heard the story of Jesus, seen friends changed by Him, or wondered if the gospel is true yourself. But what you do in response to Jesus is of great significance. For it isn't enough to merely acknowledge Jesus as a good teacher or nice moral person. Likewise it isn't enough to disapprove of evil without then following Jesus yourself. In this week's talk by Andy Palmer we hear about Jesus healing a man who was demon possessed, but surprisingly not everyone who witnessed the event then followed Him.
The Lord's prayer is one of the most familiar passages in the Bible, yet we can often miss its significance by our familiarity to it. Jesus taught His disciples to pray and they were eager to learn and listen to what He had to say. But we often can feel intimidated or distant from God and fail to pray to Him as our loving Father. Why is that? Do you struggle to pray to God? Do you wonder if God hears your prayers? What are good prayers to pray? Join us as we look at the Lord's prayer together and learn more of God's heart towards His people and His desire to answer our prayers.
For this terms series at Dwell, we are thinking about current real life topics Christians are facing in society. This week Jonny gives us practical advice to think about how we can face big or small decisions with our focus on Christ.
As a people saved by grace through faith, how do we appropriate acts of service? It is easy to approach serving as if we needed to earn our salvation and it's easy to not serve because our salvation does not depend on it. But what is a good balance in this sort of discussion and what can we learn from the story of Mary and Martha?
For this terms series at Dwell, we are thinking about current real life topics Christians are facing in society. This week Jonny and Jules talk through some myths of singleness and dating and how to apply it to our lives today.
The story of the good Samaritan is one of the most well known stories in the Bible. It is also one of the most misunderstood stories in the Bible. Often told as a moral story of kindness towards others, it misses the heart of what Jesus is saying. Instead of placing ourselves in the story as the Samaritan, what if we are really the one who was beaten? If we are meant to understand this story from the point of receiving mercy, how does that change our response?
When Jesus sent out 72 messengers to the surrounding region, He sent them with the good message of how we can have peace with God. But not everyone would accept the terms of peace with God. As Jesus' disciples we have a clear mission to spread this message of peace. However there will be resistance and difficulty along the way, not everyone will accept the terms of peace. But for those who do accept this message there is great joy and reason for hope!
How should I prioritize my life? How do I put God first as a Christian? Does Jesus really mean that He is to be my top priority? These are all hard questions that get directly at what we love most in this life. Sometimes prioritizing the work of the Gospel seems backwards in the moment or unwise to those around us. In this sermon on Luke 9:51-62, we look at this tricky passage that can be hard to swallow. Thankfully there is hope and Jesus has given us the perfect example to follow as you figure out the priorities in your life.
Have you ever seen a movie trailer that made you anticipate the release of a new film? As the last song in the book of Psalms, Psalm 150 acts as a preview to the gloriously extravagant celebration and praise of God in His sanctuary! It is the culmination of all the reasons we have been given to praise the Lord. It is a joyful celebration of the saints that we can eagerly look forward to!
In our modern day we often don't consider God's vengeance and punishment as a reason to praise Him. But Psalm 149 begins and end with the phrase "Praise the Lord", so how are we to understand a Psalm that sounds so militant in it's language? Moreover, how is it meant to lead us into worship of the Lord? Guest speaker Sam Somers Heslam seeks to help us understand these questions as he explains this tricky passage of Scripture.
Do you ever feel a sense of awe when enjoying God's created world? The beauty of a sunset, the rustling of leaves on the trees, the majesty of the deer in Richmond park? These are all good gifts from G0d that not only should inspire us to praise Him, but also join with us in praising the Creator. As good as God's world is though, we recognize there are many things that aren't as they ought to be. Creation is groaning and we wait eagerly for all to be made right when Jesus returns. While we wait and as part of God's created world, how do we care for and join in the chorus of praise for our redeemer? Join us as guest speaker Jacob Osborne helps us unpack this Psalm of praise.
What if you recognized that God binds up the wounds of the broken-hearted? Would that change how you approach Him or come to church on a Sunday morning? What if the storms of life were there to show you just how much God cared? Psalm 147 was written after Israel was returning from exile, they had been through a lot of hardship and needed the reminder that God was their protector. As in the other Psalms in this series, we get to the end goal of praising the Lord, this time it is through God's comfort and protection.
Where do you put your hope and trust? Do you trust in influential, inspiring leaders who promise to make change in the world? Although many people will try to do great things, Psalm 146 warns us not to place our "trust in princes, in human beings who cannot save". While not obvious at first sight, Psalm 146 paints a clear picture of Jesus and you can put your trust in Him! Listen in as guest speaker and mission partner, Connor Perring teaches from Psalm 146.
King David was a great monarch, he was described as "a man after God's own heart" and led his people well. But in this Psalm that King David wrote, he doesn't point to his own greatness or the fame of his kingdom. Instead David points to a better king and a better kingdom. He points to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords Jesus Christ, who's kingdom is without end. In response to such a King and kingdom, David gives praise to the King who's "greatness no one can fathom".
Do you ever feel a disconnect from the words you sing in worship? Like the nearly extinct Regent Honeyeater that has forgotten it's birdsong, have you lost the song of the gospel? In this sermon, we look at the rejoicing of Israel as the Ark of the covenant entered Jerusalem. We learn that the joy of the Lord can be expressed without worry when we recognize the glorious King we serve! May we be Christians who remember our song of praise to the Lord!
How do I find the will of God? Is it through the Bible, prayer, something else? These are not only questions for our day but they were also questions people had 2,000 years ago. In chapters 13 and 14 of 1 Chronicles the author shows what happened when David failed to enquire of God and what happened when he did. While David's decision to bring the Ark of the Lord to Jerusalem seemed wise, it proved to have deadly consequences. Consequences that could have been avoided had David enquired of the Lord. So how does that relate to us? Will God break out in anger if we fail to find His will? Listen in as we discover the link between God's will, our Saviour, and the confidence we may have to enquire of God.
History is filled with people who have defected from one side to the other, they have changed alliances and have found a new identity and purpose. This week we continue our series in 1 Chronicles as we look at the relatives of King Saul who defected from his camp to follow their future king; King David. But why would someone choose to change sides? Are things really that bad where they are now? What is the draw on the other side? In exploring these questions we discover the many similarities this story in 1 Chronicles 12 has with our lives today, and why someone would defect from the kingdom of this world to the kingdom of Jesus Christ.
Among King David's warriors were some of the bravest men in Israel who risked their lives in service of their king. These men performed heroic acts as they were rooted in the strength of the Lord, and "the Lord brought about a great victory." All these men had different roles and all these men mattered in the service of King David. But where does that leave you and I? How are we to live in the strength of the Lord and do great things for Him? Join us as we explore those questions further!
Who is leading you and where are they going? This week we look at the downfall of King Saul, his death and the death of those around him. In many ways King Saul's death and Jesus' death have many parallels, but where King Saul died because of his own sin, Jesus died for the sins of others. Join us this week as we begin the narrative section of the book of 1 Chronicles.
Although we have modern time-saving devices and machines that take care of daily chores, the result has not been less worry and more time. On the contrary, in our modern age people often feel more hurried and rushed than ever before. With the ever increasing speed of society it has become more and more difficult to slow down and simply abide with Jesus. In light of modern devices calling for our attention, how can we live with Jesus at the center of our lives?
How do you define generosity? Is it in the amount of money you give away, the frequency in which you give, or the cause you give to? While it is easy to look at external things like money as the defining point of generosity, it really isn't about the amount or the thing itself... it's about your heart. Join us as we learn that it is possible to give without loving, but that you can't love without giving.
It's easy to think that material wealth would be the definition of "great gain". But what if the accumulation of money is actually deceitful? What if instead of money, "great gain" was defined as contentment? In this counter-intuitive yet very encouraging sermon, we learn that Godliness with contentment is truly great gain!
What comes to mind when you think about money? Worry? Fear? Uncertainty? Making money, spending money, and saving money are all very normal and important in our day to day lives, but how often do we stop to consider the wisdom God has for this area of our lives? Join us as we look into God's wisdom in the area of money.
Like Israel you may feel like your past is a mixed bag of glorious moments and shameful moments, memories you cherish and memories you'd like to forget. With such mixture and complexity in your past, how do you learn and move forward towards hope in the future? Join us as we explore 1 Chronicles 8-9 and the mixed past of Israel's history.
What comes to mind when you hear the phrase "Spiritual Disciplines"? Does it sound old fashioned or make you think of a works based mindset of salvation? While we are saved by grace through faith, we cannot forget that following Jesus does require effort on our part. Join us as we explore this very practical topic about how we live out and grow in our faith.
Have you ever considered why it is that Christians sing at church? And if you have, have you wondered if it had any significance beyond keeping with tradition? This week we take a look at 1 Chronicles chapter 6 where the chronicler highlights the singers in Israel's history and their importance to the nation and worship of God.
What does it mean to be an Apprentice of Jesus? Does it simply mean to learn His teaching or is there more to apprenticeship than gaining head knowledge? Join us as we learn how to follow Jesus more fully through this series.
In the second chapter of 1 Chronicles we are reminded of many messed up people in the lineage of Jesus. Although this may be discouraging at first glance, we learn that the family Jesus came from is the family Jesus came for. Join us as we explore this sobering yet hopeful reality that Jesus has come to save sinners in need of grace.
At first glance the book of 1 Chronicles seems extremely boring, a book full of genealogies that nobody really cares about. However, if you give 1 Chronicles a chance you may discover there is a lot more to the book than meets the eye. Listen in as we launch this new series and discover the importance of being rooted in history.
Good Friday was a more meditative service as we reflected on the crucifixion of Jesus and what that means for us.
What does it look like to be a church family? Although relationships with others are often messy and difficult at times, we see a glimpse of beauty in the way we are called to interact. We learn to love, persevere in doing good, and boast in the cross. We rely on one another as we pursue Christ together and in doing so experience a real community of grace.
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free." (Gal 5:1) Does this mean we can do whatever we want? While total autonomy may sound nice at first, it leaves us vulnerable to being "destroyed by each other." if we act in the flesh (Gal 5:15). Rather than using this "freedom to indulge the flesh" (Gal 5:13) we learn that God's plan is for us to "serve one another humbly in love." (Gal 5:13). Listen in on this week's talk as we learn how this humble, loving, self-sacrificial community of believers functions by the power of the Holy Spirit.
At first glance the book of Joel appears to be depressing and dark; a book of little hope. Amazingly though, this message in Joel about God judging the nations and bringing justice is meant to be good and encouraging news! Listen in as we explore the goodness of God's judgement and how it brings hope to a world crying out for true justice.
Galatians chapter 5 opens with the words, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." As simple as it sounds to stand firm in the freedom that Christ gives, it is actually surprisingly common to stray from the grace of God and follow a different gospel. Listen this week as Jonny Burgess teaches on this important truth to stand firm in the grace of God.
This is the second talk in our mini-series in Joel. Now that God's people have returned to him, he promises to give them victory, vindication and vitality - the firstfruits now, and fullness later!
This week guest speaker Ross Ponder shares the story of Cain and Abel in our all-aged service.
In this sermon we look at the humility that Jesus showed as He served His disciples by washing their feet. But it was only a precursor to the greatest act of service He would perform; laying his life down for the sins of the world. Listen in as we explore how we can follow in Jesus' footsteps and live lives of service.
Before the talk began we watched this video from Planet Earth to set the stage for what a plague of locusts is like.
In the book of Joel there is some frightening imagery of locusts and hardships that is meant to turn our eyes to God and call out to Him. It is a trailer if you will for a much greater calamity that God is warning people about. In all of the bleak imagery there is hope and God reveals Himself as compassionate, kind, and loving,. The question is, will we run to Him for rescuing or will we pretend like the day of the Lord will not really going to happen?
After receiving the incredibly good and freeing news of the Gospel, Paul was astonished that the Galatians had so quickly turned back to a message of slavery. But as surprising as the Galatians actions were, perhaps what's even more surprising is that we are enticed to do the exact same thing. Listen this week as we explore the idea of being truly free in the Gospel and not returning to a "Gospel" of slavery.
The Bible describes God as a loving father who has graciously adopted us to be heirs in Christ. The dividing walls of class, ethnicity, gender, and social standing have been broken down so that we can find our identity and purpose in Jesus. All in Christ are set free to be sons of God!
How will you continue on in the Christian faith? What began in the Spirit will you try to complete in the flesh? These are good questions that are key to understanding how the Christian life works. In this talk we seek to understand what it looks like to continue in the faith by God's Spirit through faith in Christ.
It is easy to acknowledge truths in the Bible while not living in accordance with those truths. In this week's talk we look at the importance of the truth of the Gospel and how that should transform our church community.
When reading the Apostle Paul's letters to various churches in the 1st century, it's easy to skip over the phrase "grace and peace to you". We may see it as a formality when writing or his signature greeting, when in reality grace and peace are right at the heart of the Gospel. Listen to This! The gospel brings grace and peace; it is truly good news!
The resurrection of Jesus Christ not only gives the Christian hope for eternal life, it also changes everything here and now. But what does it look like to live a resurrected life? Do you try harder to be a good person? Read your Bible a little more than you did last week? Or is it different than that? Listen in as we explore these questions through this Dwell talk.
Guest speaker Michael Prest from UFM Worldwide, shares with us from Micah 4:1-13 and why it matters that we love the world.
In Paul's letter to the church in Corinth he wrote, "if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith." The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ is not only important but central to the good news of the gospel. But why? There were multiple people that were resurrected in the Bible but what makes the resurrection of Christ so special? Explore this question and more in this talk on the resurrection.
In this talk from guest speaker Kevin Croft, we learn about the opportunity church's in London have to reach the nations.
In this talk from guest speaker Jonty Alcock, he shares some of the reasons we may feel ashamed of the Gospel, but also offers hope and reasons why we don't have to live ashamed of the Gospel.
This is the twelfth sermon in the series Saviour. Here Andy looks at the passage from Luke 9:37-50 and Deuteronomy 32:7-22. The sermon outlines was:
True greatness... ...saves through sacrifice ...welcomes the weak ...includes the outsider
This is the eleventh sermon in the series Saviour. Here Andy looks at the passage from Luke 9:23-36 and Exodus 24:12-18. The sermon outlines was:
1) There will be blood
2) There will be glory
Application:
wake up listen up speak up
This is the tenth sermon in the series Saviour. Here Andy looks at the passage from Luke 9:18-27 and Daniel 7:13-14. The sermon outlines was:
Who is Jesus? (18-20) Why did he come? (21-22) What does it mean to follow him? (23-27)
This is the ninth sermon in the series Saviour. Here, Andy looks at the passage from Luke 9:1-17 and Exodus 16:10-18. The sermon outlines was:
1) Disciples declare dependently 2) Disciples dominate despite danger 3) Disciples discover deficiency and the Deliverer
This is the eighth sermon in the series Saviour. Here Andy looks at the passage from Luke 8:40-56 and Leviticus 15:19-33. The sermon outlines was:
1) Hope for the dying 2) Hope for the dirty 3) Hope for the dead?
This is the second sermon in the mini series Union & Communion where Jonny talk about Communion from Luke 22:7-30. The sermon outline was:
We remember: the forgiveness of Christ
We enjoy: our fellowship with Christ
We anticipate: our future feast with Christ
This is the start of the mini series, Union and Communion. Here Jonny talk on Baptism from Colossians 2:6-15 and the sermon outline was:
What baptism is: a picture of the gospel What baptism does: a promise of the gospel
This is the seventh sermon in the series Saviour. Here Andy looks at the passage from Luke 8:26-39 and Isaiah 14:12-15. The sermon outlines was:
1) A picture of possession 2) A picture of redemption 3) A picture of mission
At this women's breakfast, Jules speaks from Titus 2 about why everyone needs a sister.
This is the sixth sermon in the series Saviour. Here Andy looks at the passage when Jesus calms the storm from Luke 8:22-25 and answers the question, Who is Jesus? The sermon outlines was:
Who is Jesus? - A prophetic victim of chaos? (v22-24a) - Or the divine Creator of order? (v24b-25)
This is the fifth sermon in the Saviour series and looks at Luke 8:1-21 as well as Isaiah 6:8-13. Here, Andy talks about how we are saved by hearing. The sermon outline was:
1) Do you desire to produce a crop? (1-15) 2) Do you desire to come into the light? (16-21)
In this Dwell talk Jonny looks at the question, what on earth does "God is love" mean (1 John 4:8)? Find out why the doctrine of the trinity is not a dusty and academic topic, but the heartbeat of knowing God's love.
This is the fourth sermon in the Saviour series and looks at Luke 7:36-8:3. Here, Andy talks about how we are saved from debt. The sermon outline was:
Love extravagantly...
...in response to Christ's extravagant forgiveness
This is the third sermon in the Saviour series and looks at Luke 7:18-35. Here Andy talks about how we are saved from uncertainty. The sermon outline was:
1) Question the evidence (18-23) 2) Question the witnesses (24-28) 3) Question your neutrality (19-35)
This is the second sermon in the series Saviour and looks at Luke 7:11-17. In this sermon Andy looks at how we can be comforted that Jesus alone can stop the inevitable tragedy of death. The sermon outline was:
1) The unstoppable tragedy of death (11-13) 2) The immoveable Lord of life (14-17)
Jonny starts off this term's Dwell sessions answering the question: How can I hear God speak. This is part 1 or 2.
Andy is back teaching from Luke's gospel, continuing where he left it earlier in the year. This week Andy looked at Luke 6:46-7:10 and the sermon outline was:
1) You don't need to prove your worth (1-6) 2) You need to recognise your unworthiness (7-10)
Jacob Osborne (a member of Christ Church Balham) teaches us from Psalm 83, thinking about how unjust rules in the world aren't superhuman - Jesus will judge them.
Adam Johnston returns to CCB to open up Psalm 82, a strikingly pertinent song for our chaotic times.
Gordon Reid (an elder at CCB) preaches through Psalm 81, helping us to reflect on what we're feeding our minds on.
Tom Emslie-Smith preached Psalm 79 under three headings:
A Holy People Hurting A Rescued People Repenting A Protected People Praising
This is the third sermon from Andy in the mini series looking at church growth. In this sermon Andy looks at Growing in collectivity and the outline was:
1) The redeemed bless the nations
2) The organised bless the nations
This is the second sermon from Andy in the mini series looking at church growth. In this sermon Andy looks at Growing in diversity and the outline was: 1) We build together 2) We build differently 3) We build humbly
This is the first sermon from Andy in the mini series looking at church growth. In this sermon Andy looks at Growing in number and the outline was: - Growth (2:41-47) - Grumbles (6:1) - Governance (6:2-6) - Growth (6:7)
This is the seventh and final sermon in the series Chasing the Wind? The sermon outline was: Rejoice! - You'll be judged (11:7-10)
Remember! - You'll die (12:1-7)
Treasure these words (12:8-14)
Jonny & Connor chat about this big and fascinating section of the book as the Preacher of Ecclesiastes begins to draw his conclusions about how we live in this messed-up world.
Connor and Jonny are back discussing the mysteries and puzzles and surprises of Ecclesiastes, this time focusing on the topic of wisdom.
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the The Last Days. Sermon notes will be uploaded soon to help you follow along.
This is the sixth sermon in the series Chasing the Wind? Here Jonny looks at living in this messed-up world through:
Endurance 8:2-5, 10:4 Enjoyment 8:15, 9:7-9 Enterprise 9:10, 11:1-6
The download contains the exerts from Ecclesiastes 8-11.
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the New Covenant/Testament. Sermon notes can be downloaded to help follow along.
This is the fifth sermon in the series Chasing the Wind? Here Jonny looks at the how we should try to quit thinking we can master wisdom, but that we should receive it form God. The sermon outline was:
1-12: Embrace sober wisdom (living in the light of your death) 13-24: Accept the limits of wisdom (everything is tainted by sin) 25-29: Beware the alternative to wisdom (Lady Folly)
Connor and Andy wrap up the Jonah series as they explore Jonah 4 and discuss listeners' questions.
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the New Covenant Exile and Return. Sermon notes can be downloaded to help follow along.
This is the fourth and final sermon in the Jonah series. Here Andy looks at Jonah 4 and the outline was:
Jonah's anger a Nineveh's deliverance (1-3) Jonah's delight in his deliverance (4-6) Jonah's concern for himself (7-9) God's concern for the lost (10-11)
Connor's back and chatting with Andy about Jonah 3, fielding listeners' questions and exploring more...
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the New Covenant Pre-Exile. Sermon notes can be downloaded to help follow along.
In the second sermon of this series in Jonah, Andy preaches Jonah 1:17-2:10 - Jonah's exemplary prayer for deliverance. Or is it...?
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the Davidic Covenant. Sermon notes can be downloaded to help follow along.
Connor & Jonny chat about issues arising from Ecclesiastes 4-5, engaging with listeners' questions.
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the Levitical Covenant. Sermon notes can be downloaded to help follow along.
This is the first sermon in the new series 'A lesson for Compassion, a lesson for Hypocrisy'. In this sermon Andy looks at 'A lesson in Sovereignty (and Idolatry)' using Jonah 1, 2 Kings 14:23-29 and Mark 4:35-41. The sermon outline was:
Three questions for Israel:
-Who are the idolaters?
-Who worships/fears the LORD?
-Who is God powerful to save?
Three questions for us:
-Do you recognise your own idols?
-Do you see their impotence?
-Do you trust in the Prophet?
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the Mosaic Covenant. Sermon notes can be downloaded to help follow along.
This is the forth sermon in the series Chasing the Wind? Here Jonny looks at the brokenness of toil, that through fearing God and loving others points to the gift of joy.
Connor & Jonny take some time to explore more from Ecclesiastes 3 after Sunday's sermon. "A time for questions, a time for answers..."
In this Dwell talk Andy continues the bible overview looking at the Abrahamic Covenant. Sermon notes can be downloaded to help follow.
This is the third sermon from Jonny in the book of Ecclesiastes. Chapter 3 explores how we can find contentment in the variety of life by accepting the sovereignty of the Eternal One who entered into time.
Jonny & Connor chat about Jonny's last sermon in Ecclesiastes, engaging with people's questions and exploring more of the passage's meaning and implications.
Jonny continues our sermon series in Ecclesiastes. Chapter 2 explores the issue of how we try and fail to create paradise and find pleasure. Yet God has provided a key to how we truly can find joy.
In this the third talk by Andy in the His Story Dwell series looking at the Noahic Covenant.
Connor & Jonny explore areas raised by Jonny's sermon on Ecclesiastes 1:1-18, with the help of questions from the congregation.
This is the first sermon in the sermon series 'Chasing the Wind' looking at surprising wisdom for life from Ecclesiastes. This sermon looks at Ecclesiastes 1:1-18 and the sermon outline is:
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Life is vapour (4-11)
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Wisdom is vapour (12-18)
In this the second talk by Andy in the His Story Dwell series looking at the Adamic Covenant.
This is the first week of the Dwell Bible Overview series called His Story. Here is the introduction to the His Story from Andy.
This is the second sermon in a two part mini series looking at when Paul first brought the gospel to Ephesus. It looks at Acts 19:11-20:1 and the sermon outline was: In the face of God's power... (19:10-12) ...some abuse it and are publicly exposed (19:13-17) ...some believe it and publicly confess (19:19-20) ...some hate it and publicly riot (19:21-41) ...so let's carry on (20:1)
This is the first sermon in a two part mini series looking at when Paul first brought the gospel to Ephesus. It looks at Acts 18:18-19:10 and the sermon outline was: 1) Ephesus lacks an Apostle... ...but God gives an alternative
2) Apollos lacks knowledge... ...but God gives adequately
3) The disciples lacks the Spirit... ...but God gives abundantly
4) Paul lacks a platform... ...but God gives access
Andy helps us to consider the cross anew from the angle of Psalm 22, astonishingly written 1000 years before Christ was crucified and raised.
In this Dwell talk, Jonny and Beth Burgess look at how the Bible asserts and celebrates the value of women from beginning to end. This is a talk for women and for men - to come and hear how God cherishes women and uses them to advance his kingdom.
This is the tenth and final sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 6:10-24 and also looks at Isaiah 59:15b-21. The sermon outline was:
1) Put on God's armour (10-13) 2) Stand firm in God's armour (14-17) 3) Pray together in God's armour (18-24)
Bernard Palmer is a retired senior consultant surgeon, and has spent many years writing and lecturing on the relationship between science and faith. In this talk he offered an overview of why following Jesus is the most rational thing to do in the light of philosophy, history, and science.
This is the ninth sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 5:21-6:9 and also looks at Genesis 2:18-25. The sermon outline was: 1) Ordered marriage (5:21-33) 2) Ordered home (6:1-4) 3) Ordered work (6:5-9)
In this Dwell talk Glynn Harrison, a Christian psychiatrist and academic, helped us think about the link between following Jesus and mental health. Before retiring from professional life Glynn was Professor and Head of Department of Psychiatry at University of Bristol, where he was also a practising Consultant Psychiatrist. He is a past President of the International Federation of Psychiatric Epidemiology and acted as an advisor to WHO. Suffice to say, Glynn is an expert in this field.
This is the eighth sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 5:1-20 and also looks at Isaiah 60:1-3. The sermon outline was: As dearly loved children... (1-2) ...avoid the night life... (3-7) ...live the light life... (8-16) ...being filled with the Spirit (17-20)
In this Dwell talk, Jonny helped us to think about suffering - why would a good God allow such pain in the world he has made?
This is the seventh sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 4:17-5:2 and also looks at Isaiah 4:212-22. The sermon outline was:
1) Don't walk in ignorance (4:17-19) 2) Walk in truth (4:20-29) 3) Following God's way (4:30-5:2)
In this Dwell talk Andy helped us think about exclusivity - how we can make sense of Jesus' absolute claims whilst living in a pluralistic world with many competing beliefs and world views.
This is the sixth sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 4:1-16 and also looks at Psalm 68:7-18.
The sermon outline was:
1) The Trinity is the source of church unity (1-6) 2) The Trinity is the source of church diversity (4-10) 3) Church diversity is necessary for unity and maturity (11-16)
This is the second sermon in the series God and Covid. This sermon looks at Covid and Life and looks at various bible passages. The sermon outline was as follows:
Repent continuously (Luke 13:1-9)
Endure patiently (Hebrews 12:7-11)
Serve generously (2 Corinthians 8:1-9)
Evangelise courageously (Mark 13:9-11) "And the gospel must first be preached to all nations"
Thank God continually (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances"
This is the first in a two part mini sermon series looking at God and Covid. This sermon looks at Luke 13:1-9 and 2 Peter 3:3-9 and the sermon outline was:
Covid is a warning
...to repent (1-5)
...from a patient God (6-9)
In this Dwell talk, Professor Richard Buggs (Evolutionary Biologist and Senior Research Leader at Kew Gardens), answered the question why evolution does not disprove God.
This is the fifth sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 3:1-21 and also looks at Acts 21:27-36. The sermon outline was:
The inclusive church is... ...revealed and reviled (1-9) ...victorious and glorious (10-13) ...empowered and impassioned (14-21)
Santhosh Thomas (one of the pastors at Dundonald Wimbledon), helps us to think through 'Why does God care who I sleep with?'
This is the fourth sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 2:11-22 and also looks at Deuteronomy 7:1-11. The sermon outline was:
Once we were separated (11-12)
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Now we have peace (13-18)
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Now we are family (19-22)
This is the third sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 2:1-10 and also looks at Ezekiel 37:1-17. The sermon outline was:
1) Dead in sin (1-3) 2) Alive in Christ (4-7) 3) Walking by grace (8-10)
In this Dwell talk Connor Perring helps us think about why following Jesus doesn't result in restriction but freedom!
This is the second sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 1:15-23 and also looks at Psalm 8. The sermon outline was
Keep praying... (15-16) ...to know our God personally (17) ...to know our future certainly (18) ...to know his power intimately (19-23):
This Dwell talk from Jonny helps us to think through why we can take the bible seriously.
This is the first sermon in the sermon series Better Together looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This sermon focusses on Ephesians 1:1-14 and also looks at John 17:1-5. The sermon outline is:
1) The praise due to the Father (3) 2) The blessings of being in the Son: a) Election and adoption in the past (4-6) b) Redemption and forgiveness in the present (7-8) c) Revelation of the Father's plan for the future (9-10) 3) The assurance of being sealed with the Spirit (11-14)
Matt Dew-Jones (guest preacher from Co-Mission) helps us to think through Ecclesiastes 3:1-15.
Adam Johnston (guest preacher) helps us to think through Matthew 2:13-18, the exile is over and the Messiah has returned.
This is the Christmas Day all age church service looking at the 3 gifts the wise men gave to Jesus, looking at Matthew 2:7-12.
Gold Frankincense Myrrh
This is our third sermon in the series The King of Christmas. It focussed on Micah 5:1-4 and Matthew 2:1-12 and the outline was:
1) A King who pulls in pagans (1-2) 2) A King who repels in the religious (3-8) 3) A King who was born to die (9-12)
This is our second sermon in the series The King of Christmas. It focussed on Isaiah 7:1-17 and Matthew 1:18-25 and the outline was:
Don't fear the visible threat (Isaiah 7:1-6) Have faith in the sovereign God (Isaiah 7:7-12) Look for the sign of Immanuel...
...at first a message of judgement (Isaiah 7:13-17, 8:1-10) ...now a message of salvation (Matthew 1:23, 28:10)
This is our first sermon in the series Preparing for the King of Christmas. It focussed on Matthew 1:1-17 and the outline was:
A new beginning in the long-promised king (1,17) 1) The Kingdom promised (2-6a) 2) The Kingdom lost (6b-11) 3) The Kingdom hope (12-16) - Know God's promises - Trust God's promises - Be included in God's promises
This is the ninth sermon in the series of Good News! It focussed on Luke 6:43-49 and the outline was: 1) Genuine disciples produce good fruit (v43-45)
2) Need a good foundation (v46-49)
This is the eighth sermon in the series of Good News! It focussed on Luke 6:37-42 and the outline was: 1) Don't play God - imitate him (37-38) 2) Don't lead blindly - follow clearly (39-42)