Chichester Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
Chichester Baptist Church
Ezekiel is transported from Babylon to Jerusalem and sees a vision of how far God's people have gone from God and his ways. This message unpacks …
Exiled, experiencing loss of country, comfort, career and calling, on the day when he should have commenced his role as a priest in distant …
The Christmas scene may be static in our minds, photos and Christmas cards, but in reality it moves on. This message unpacks the invitation …
At this carol service message Andy unpacks what the image of the manger reveals about our down to earth King.
John 1 reveals that Jesus came as the King who became one of us, moved into our neighbourhood and was and is full of grace and truth. An unusual King who is to be received in our hearts.
Using the illustration of a long hike as the journey of discipleship, this message encourages us to Keep Going as we practise the way of Jesus …
On Remembrance Sunday, this message traces 3 stories in the life of Jesus from Luke 3 and 4 about freedom …
This message looks at the practice of Solitude, an invitation from our Heavenly Father to be in his presence and allow him to speak to us …
As part of our series ‘Practicing the Way’ this message provides a number of practical ways in which we can read …
Ellen and Andy give a joint message on the practice of community including sharing communion
This message looks at the second of the spiritual practices which is sabbath. Drawing on Genesis 1:31, Exodus 20: 8-11, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 …
This message looks at the second of the spiritual practices which is fasting. Based on ...
Drawing on the story of Daniel 1 this message unpacks how we can all live for God in the places we find ...
We are looking at 7 spiritual practices to help us grow in the way of Jesus as part ...
This message is the third in this series about spiritual formation. Looking at fruitfulness in John 15:1-5 we remember that we are called to the long ...
This message explores the forces that are forming us, and draws on Paul's instruction not to be conformed to the pattern of this world ...
This is the first message in a series called 'Practicing the Way' based on a resource by author and pastor John Mark Comer. In this first message ...
In Luke 19:1-10 we learn that although others might dismiss us and we may think of ourselves as no good, somehow Jesus thinks ...
Mary shows us why we should sit at Jesus's feet and listen to him, Martha shows us why that can be so difficult in real life.
In Luke 7:36-50, we read about how Jesus is anointed by a sinful woman while eating at Simon the Pharisee's house. There are lessons for us to learn about how Simon …
This is the first message in a summer series called 'Encounters with Jesus' in Luke's gospel. This message looks at …
This short message is part of a whole service celebrating 15 years of CBC being a Christians Against Poverty debt centre. It looks …
We live in a world of worry, but how can worry help us? This message from Matthew 6:25-34 draws from the lesson of the birds…
This next question in our series 'questions Jesus asked' is found in John 6: 53-71. Many of Jesus' followers have left him and he asks this question …
With a general election this week Ian considers 'How do we as Christians engage in politics?'
This pointed question to the expert in the law reframes what a neighbour is, challenges our prejudices and demonstrates …
This message looks at Jesus' question to Mary Magdalene outside the tomb on Easter Sunday morning. The passage is John 20:11-18…
In this message, guest speaker Rev Dr Ian Stackhouse speaks from Matthew 16: 13-20 about Peter's confession 'You are the Christ, the Son of the living God'…
In this third message in our series 'Questions Jesus asked' we consider Jesus’ question 'Has no one condemned you?’ from the passage John 8:1-11 …
This message explores Pentecost (Acts 2:1-42) and the work of the Holy Spirit that we can both see on that special day and pray for today.
In whatever season we find ourselves, we are invited to give our very best by the one who "watches over all who live on earth - he who forms the hearts of all, who …
In this second message in our series 'Questions Jesus asked' we consider Jesus’ question 'Who touched me?' from the passage Mark 5:21-34. What impact did Jesus' question …
Jesus asked lots of questions. In this first of a new series we explore why questions are so powerful and what Jesus was really asking with this question, “Why are you so afraid?”
This message looks at Psalm 103:8-12 and the way David describes the grace of God. Temporary anger, generous mercy, expansive love and total forgiveness…
In John 20:19-23, we explore the fact that Jesus proclaimed peace over the disciples IN their trouble, THROUGH their trouble and DESPITE their trouble by…
This Easter Sunday message celebrates that the risen Jesus promises in Revelation 21 that he is 'making all things new'. Our God is a God who brings life …
Here in Isaiah 6, we explore the fact that God is looking for people who make themselves available, and who are willing obedient in spite of their inadequacies and shortcomings.
If the book of Ruth was a four-part TV series, we might not want to persevere with it after episode 1 which ends on a bit of a downer. But at its heart is an incredible statement …
Looking at Judges 2:6-19 this message thinks about the cycle of deliverance and defeat during the time of the Judges and the lessons we can learn for our own lives …
We continue our series of Old Testament passages with one of the most well-known of all, Deuteronomy 6, quoted by Jesus and still recited daily by some Jews today…
The Bible is full of people who are overwhelmed by the questions and difficulties of this life, struggling with God, and finding his love and grace - just like Jacob.
Jacob the patriarch, whose life has been characterised by scheming and trickery, encounters a mysterious man who wrestles with him and gives him a new identity…
God has created an incredible world. But it’s only once he has created and blessed mankind, and made mankind stewards over his creation, that he pronounces it to be very good…
This message is rooted in Numbers 11:4-17 and the story of the people of Israel complaining in the desert. We look at what we can learn in the in-between places …
Rev. Dr Peter Morden, Principal of Bristol Baptist College, brings a message from Hebrews 10:11-25 in which the author describes the finished work of Jesus and …..
The third in a mini series on 'Essentials' looking at our commitment to being a Word and Spirit Church.
An essential part of being church is mission and in this message Andy unpacks from Romans 10:9-15 that the message we have to share is for everyone, that …
Over the next three weeks we will be taking some time to consider three values that we believe are necessary for a healthy, growing church, and that are at the heart …
This stand alone message is the first of 2024 and looks at Psalm 1. What might it look like for us to be rooted as Christians as we begin this new year?
The Christmas story can appear unbelievable. But when we start to look at the evidence for the story itself, and the evidence of changed lives, it’s not as unbelievable …
In John 1:1-9 the author declares some unbelievable truths about Jesus, that he is the light that shines undefeated in the darkness. He comes to dark places today, too.
The basis for the Christmas story is the incredible story of a virgin birth. This short Carol Service message asks, “Did it really happen? And if it did, so what?”
Are the stories around the birth of Jesus far-fetched? Or might there be a high level of credibility in the accounts written by Matthew and Luke?
Exploring Jesus’ family tree in Matthew 1:1-17 we see that Matthew wants us to see who Jesus really is - the Messiah - the one who both God's people
In the final section of Paul’s letter to the Philippians he seeks to bring them hope and encouragement as he reflects on their generosity, his gratitude, and God’s grace.
This message is centred on Philippians 4:2-9 thinking about the peace that God offers. We are called to live in peace with each other and there is also a promise …
This message looks at Philippians 3:12-4:1 and Paul's encouragement to 'forget what is behind and strain towards what is ahead'. What does it mean to forget and how …
1 Samuel 25 tells the story of how, in a life-threatening crisis, Abigail (“the father’s joy”) acted with humility, perfect timing and choice of location, to avert a disaster …
One Thing mattered more to Paul than anything else: knowing Jesus. In Philippians 3:1-11 Paul shares a warning about those who would put the One Thing out of reach …
This message reflects on the baptisms that have taken place in the service and looks at the story of Jesus' baptism in Matthew 3:13-17. God the Father affirms his pleasure …
Timothy and Epaphroditus provide for us two examples of partners in the gospel. They are examples we can learn from as we seek to grow as partners in the gospel ourselves.
This message looks at Philippians 2:12-18 and what Paul means when he encourages the Christians to 'work out what God has worked in'. We think about what it means …
In one of the best-known, most-loved passages of the New Testament (Philippians 2:5-11) Paul describes the incredible trajectory of Christ’s selfless incarnation …
This message is the third in the series 'One Thing' looking at Paul's letter to the Philippians. In this message from Philippians 1:27-2:4 Ellen talks about what it means to …
This message unpacks how Paul believed in a God of all circumstances who was at work despite his chains and the false motives of other believers sharing the gospel …
In Philippians 1:1-11 Paul shares his love and affection for the Philippian Christians, and his joy at their partnership in the gospel.
In the last in our series in the Sermon on the Mount, we take a look at Jesus’ warning to his disciples (Matthew 7:24-27) that simply listening to his teaching is not just …
As we head towards the conclusion of the amazing Sermon on the Mount, Jesus invites his disciples to enter through the narrow gate (Matthew 7:13-14). Self-denial, steadfastness …
In another memorable section from the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:1-6), Jesus challenges his disciples about judgmentalism. Don't be a judge, and don't be …
This message from Matthew 6:19-24 unpacks Jesus’ teaching about earthly and heavenly treasure, linking what we treasure to what our vision is and…
The command to love our enemies is arguably the jewel in the crown of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus promotes not just non-retaliation (Matthew 5:38-42) but active love …
A look into how Jesus takes this Old Testament legal text focused on justice and judgement, and transforms it into a calling for humility, race and service…
Life can feel overwhelming, but there are grounds for hope. Let’s think small, create space in our lives (for doubt, and away from busyness), and think differently.
Jesus called his disciples to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. This message unpacks what that means and how we too can be salt of the earth …
In his final beatitude, Jesus promises a blessing for those who are persecuted. By why are Christians persecuted, and what should their response be?
In the seventh beatitude, Jesus pronounces a blessing on the peacemakers. But why is peacemaking so close to God’s heart, and what are the characteristics of a peacemaker?
In this sixth beatitude we look at what the biblical understanding was of our hearts and what Jesus means when he encourages his followers to be 'pure in heart'…
Why is being merciful a characteristic of the Kingdom of God? How can I become a merciful person and what might be putting the brakes on?
Sometimes it can seem as if God is taking ages to act. But he is not in a hurry. He takes his time. And no-one knew that lesson better than Abraham …
This message continues our series in the Beatitudes from Matthew 5:1-10. Ellen unpacks the biblical understanding of righteousness and what it means …
We continue our series “The BE Attitudes” for the third of Jesus’ pronouncements of blessing: “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5).
Jesus promises that those who mourn are blessed for they shall be comforted. This message unpacks the different ways that those who follow Jesus mourn …
This message is the first in a series looking at the beatitudes from Matthew 5: 1-10. It looks at what it means to be blessed, and how we are called to live as radical disciples …
Life is full of journeys, some that we look forward to and others that we dread; some journeys that we have planned and dreamed of, and others that are not of our choosing…
The two Marys have a life-changing encounter at the tomb of Jesus (Luke 24:1-7) on Easter Sunday morning. Expecting to find a corpse, instead they are shocked …
We conclude our series on Finding Frontline Confidence with some thoughts on courage, and how small steps of courage can make a difference…
Peter calls us to 'always be prepared to give an answer' for the hope that we have in Jesus. Unpacking 1 Peter 3:15-16, this message highlights some of the ways …
In his closing words from the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:24-29), Jesus urges his disciples to put his teaching into practice. Bringing order into our private world …
Ebed-Melek is not a name that crops up in daily conversation, is it? But Ebed-Melek was a man who demonstrated a thoughtful compassion, as we see …
This is the second message in our series on 'Confidence' looking at a key ingredient which helps us to be braver and bolder in our frontline - Community.
The apostles were filled with confidence about the message of Jesus (Acts 5:12-25). In this the first of our Finding Frontline Confidence series, Gavin Calver …
We conclude our series Here We Are To Worship with what it means to grow as worshippers, as those who engage minds and hearts in our worship, encouraging others to do the same.
This is the fourth message in our series looking at the work of the Holy Spirit in our worshipping life together. Drawing on verses from Romans 8:26-27 and 1 Corinthians 14 …
Much has changed in how the church carries out its mission over the 2000 years since Christ rose from the dead. But some thing have stayed the same…
God loves to speak to us, through one another. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 and 14:1-5 this message unpacks the biblical basis for prophecy today and
Looking at various examples of the early church in Acts, this message explains that we don't have all that we could have from God. There is a biblical expectancy …
Corporate worship is part and parcel of any Sunday service. But what exactly is worship? And what is it not? In this, the first in a new series, we seek to get to the heart of worship.
This message from our Carol Service looks at how Jesus can be the missing peace in our own Christmas season. Peace is found not in a changing of our circumstances …
There is a “dream that seems to drag on and on” and a “delay that can be depressing” (Proverbs 13:12, The Passion) which eats away at our peace. There is hope, but …
Zechariah had been longing for his prayers, both personally and for his people, to be answered for many years. This message explores his story …
The final message in our series 'Holy Maths' sums up the series looking at the sacrificial love that God calls us to share with others.
Peter nears the end of his list of personal qualities to be added to our faith, and points us towards mutual affection. But what does it mean, why is it important …
Jesus claimed to be the Bread of Life, something available to all, now and that lasts forever. This message unpacks this amazing statement and asks …
On Remembrance Sunday, when we remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life, we also
This message is number 6 in our series Holy Maths looking at 2 Peter 1:3-12. What does godliness mean and what does it look like in the life of a disciple?
Why does Hebrews teach that Church Family is essential for perseverance through the Christian life? What should that look like in practice and what is my personal role to play?
We continue our Holy Maths series, taken from 2 Peter 1:1-12, by reflecting on the story of Hannah as an example of perseverance. Hannah’s story is told in 1 Samuel 1:1-20.
This message, based on 2 Corinthians 5:11-18, reminds us of the vision and values behind our Alternative Gatherings network, as well as looking to the future together…
Peter writes that we should add to our faith self-control. By why does it matter, given it is so difficult? And why is it so difficult? And how do I add self-control to my faith? …
This message is the third talk in our series Holy Maths looking at what Peter tells us to 'add to' our faith in 2 Peter 1:3-12. We look at ‘knowledge’ this week …
At this special baptism service Andy looks at how the hearers responded to Peter's gospel message at Pentecost in Acts 2, and the implications for us today.
This message celebrates the work of CAP (Christians Against Poverty) here in Chichester over the last 13 years. We hear an update about the ministry of CAP …
Peter writes that to our faith we should add goodness. But what exactly is goodness? We can’t add it unless we know what it is. And then how do we add it to our faith?
This message begins a new series in 2 Peter 1:1-12 called Holy Maths, looking at the various qualities that Peter encourages the believers to 'add to your faith' …
We are all part of a tribe, “a distinctive or close-knit group”. But when our tribe membership becomes tribalism, problems follow. The story of Paul’s arrest …
Each one of us has a hyphen which is the time we have here on earth. Like in an equation, if the hyphen is missing it can lead to disastrous consequence …
We are invited into a planet-sized classroom to learn. There is an endless supply of breathtaking learning resources. There are no exams to sit, and no pressure to learn…
This message will be exploring how considering and caring for creation helps us to put this verse into practice. We will think about how we can care for …
In this final section of Paul’s 2nd letter to the Corinthians, Paul has some things to say to leaders about authority and humility, and to the wider congregation …
Paul doesn’t want to write about himself, he really doesn’t! But for the sake of the church he will, and so in 2 Corinthians 12:1-18 he continues to set out the reasons why …
In response to his critics Paul defends his position as apostle, but does so by boasting in his weaknesses. This message, unpacking 2 Corinthians 11 , teaches …
This message looks at Paul's argument in 2 Corinthians 10 countering challenges that he is not bold enough. We look at his two examples of godly boldness …
In a time of economic hardship, the two chapters on generosity in 2 Corinthians 8-9 might appear untimely. And yet it was in difficult times that the Macedonian churches set an example …
I recently saw a social media thread by someone who saw his first ever film from a famous franchise. It was Rogue One: A Star Wars Story…
This message continues our series in 2 Corinthians looking at 2 Corinthians 6:3-7:1. We think about Paul's defence of his ministry by commending himself as a servant…
In this ‘walk in reverse’ through 2 Corinthians 5, we have some lessons to learn: about urgency and who we live for; about consequences and love; and about …
This message looks at 2 Corinthians 4 and what we can learn from Paul's testimony about God's treasure being housed in weak human vessels…
Sometimes the gifts that we have been given need rekindling. This message draws on Paul's instruction to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:6 to fan into flame the gift of God and calls …
Much of 2 Corinthians is about Paul’s prickly relationships with the church in Corinth, and in 2 Corinthians 2:5-3:18 Paul on the defensive – about his manner, his ministry, and his message …
This message is the first in a new series working through 2 Corinthians, looking at 2 Corinthians 1:1-2:4. We learn something of the context that Paul was writing into …
A look at how Jesus meets the two disciples on the road to Emmaus in an ordinary place, and how he models for us what it looks like to meet with others …
How do we know what it means to follow Jesus today - what should we prioritise individually and as a church? Paul's letter to the Colossians teaches that we should be moving forwards …
This Easter Sunday message looks at Jesus' resurrection appearances to three individuals in John's gospel - to Mary, Thomas and Peter. We see that he is less interested …
As Jesus hung on the cross, having been there for 6 hours he cried out in a loud voice 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?' (Matthew 27:46). Why did Jesus ask this?
The day after Jesus’ dramatic entry into Jerusalem to the shouts of the crowds and his overturning of the tables of the money changers, he confronts the religious hierarchy …
This final message looking at John 3:16 phrase by phrase considers that God's judgment and his offer of eternal life sit together as good news in the context of his love for the world.
Whoever believes in him. Looking at the story of the thief on the cross (Luke 23:32-43) this message outlines how the good news of John 3:16 is for all …
In this the second in our series based on John 3:16, we take a look at exactly how God expressed his love for the world through the gracious, costly and perfect gift of his Son…
This is the first in a 4-part series called So Loved looking at John 3:16 phrase by phrase. What have these 26 words got to teach about God, his nature, and his salvation plan?
In the last of our Heartbeat series, exploring the values that we hold as important at CBC, we take a look at the theme of being a family together. This message draws …
This message is the third in a four-week series looking at the key values at CBC. Using 1 Corinthians 3:1-11 it looks at some of the hallmarks of partnering together
This message is the second in a series called 'Heartbeat' looking at our 4 key values as a church. Using Mark 6:6-13 and Matthew 28:16-20, this message …
This Sunday we start a new series called 'Heartbeat', taking time to unpack some of our church's core values. To start the series we explore God's heart for the lost, last and least…
Carl Beech shares stories of reconciliation, anchored in God’s message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:17-21).
In Daniel 3, three men find themselves facing an extreme test. What kind of faith will see them through it? And what kind of faith do we need, even if …
This message looks at Jesus' response to the death of his friend Lazarus in John 11:17-37. What can we learn about compassion and God's heart …
After an emotional rollercoaster of a day, the exhausted disciples see Jesus walking on the water. Peter asks to join him, and he shares in the miracle, until …
In this new year’s message based on Deuteronomy 6:4-9, we are reminded to live for and worship God alone with everything we have, in the home and in public.
John’s Gospel presents a very unique perspective on the Christmas events, telling the incredible story of God, the Word, the Life, the Light, coming to earth…
In this the third of our Advent series of messages we consider Jesus, the down-to-earth King. Taking our cue from Matthew 2:1-12, we consider the location, the King, …
In this talk based on Luke 2:1-7 we look at three journeys under or into Roman occupation before Jesus was born. Journeys that brought Jesus down to earth …
This message is the first in our advent series called 'Down to Earth'. It looks at the prophetic promise found in Isaiah 9:2-7 and thinks about the promise that was fulfilled in Jesus …
On the 70th anniversary of Chichester Baptist Church looking back with thankfulness helps us look forward with faith and hope. Deuteronomy 4:9 describes a consistent Biblical lesson …
In the final ‘Trustworthy Saying’ in this series, we find Paul writing from his dark, damp cell to Timothy, affirming the truth expressed in a first century hymn …
This message is the third in a mini-series looking at Paul's 'trustworthy sayings' from the Pastoral Epistles to Timothy and Titus…
In 1 Timothy 4:7-10 Paul encourages Timothy to train for godliness, for “ godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come”. But what is godliness? Why should I train for it? And how?
This message is the first in a mini-series of talks looking at 4 of Paul's 'trustworthy sayings' found in Timothy and Titus. This first one is from 1 Timothy 1:12-17 …
The rebuild is completed in 52 days, but not without further intimidation from Nehemiah’s enemies in Nehemiah 6. This message outlines what these threats were
Nehemiah and the people have been facing serious threats from outside the community. But now a more serious situation arises, troubles from within …
This message looks at Ephesians 1:3-14 and what it means to be blessed by God. Rather than blessing being about answered prayer or material or circumstantial benefits …
Work on rebuilding the wall is progressing well, but a work of God attracts opposition. In Nehemiah 4 we see how Nehemiah tackles the multiple problems …
In this third message in our series' Rebuilding' we look at Nehemiah 3 as the work on the city walls begins…
God has laid a burden on Nehemiah’s heart. For 4 months he has been praying about it. Now it’s crunch time - will his prayers be answered? …
This is the first message in our series 'Rebuilding' looking at the book of Nehemiah. In chapter 1 we learn that the foundation of any building for God's kingdom is prayer …
David is one of the greatest heroes of The Bible, “a man after God’s own heart”. But how can that possibly be, given some of the awful things he did?
Sibling issues? Career aspirations? Plain jealousy? Old-age grumpiness?! For whatever reason Miriam, an Old Testament hero, shows herself to be a fallible human being …
Elijah was exhausted from his ministry. He was exhausted, depressed and suicidal. So what did God do next? Listen here to find out…
The portrait of Sarah in Genesis 21:1-21 is a harsh one, and yet the New Testament commends her as a woman of faith, because God graciously accepts and works with imperfect men and women …
We come to the end of our series Roadmap for Life. But what awaits us at journey's end? What has been promised to those who follow God's roadmap?
This message looks at the story of the people of Israel in Joshua 6:1-21 and how God gave them victory in Jericho. How can we live in God's victory …
Israel are at a crossroads as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. How can they trust God to deliver on His promises and keep them safe in the land across the Jordan?
When we are going on a journey, we have a good idea of what we will need. But what about the journey of life, with all its unpredictable twists and turns?
God has a road map for his people. Numbers 9: 15-23 shows us that God doesn’t leave us to discover this alone but is present amongst us. But we also need to do our part. We need to be a people who are attentive to him, willing to be led, and ready to step out in faith where ever he may lead us.
In Exodus 33 Moses encountered the Lord and discovered the promise of God’s presence for a sinful people, for the journey ahead. We too can discover this on our own roadmap for life and through faith in Jesus can encounter the Lord and know his presence.
A young man comes to Jesus (Luke 18:18-30) to ask about eternal life, but something is getting in the way. What was it for him? What might it be for us?
This message is part of our series called 'The Invitation' where we are looking at the invitations of Jesus in the gospels. One of those is his invitation to 'Come, rest'…
John, probably speaking from personal experience, records the incident that transformed his life. Requesting some time with Jesus, Andrew and John were invited …
This message is the second in our series looking at some invitations of Jesus in the gospels. This message considers how Jesus called the disciples in Mark 3:13-19 …
Today we start a new series called “The Invitation”, examining some of the invitations that Jesus extended to would-be and actual followers. We begin with Jesus’ invitation to us to follow …
Jesus has risen but the next move for the disciples isn't clear. What does the last miracle in John's gospel have to teach us as we anticipate lockdown easing?
Mark 16:1-8 shows us that Jesus died, Jesus rose and Jesus lives. A message we can celebrate and share with others this Easter.
The soldiers, passers-by, robbers, and religious hierarchy appear united in their humiliation of Jesus. But Jesus, "for the joy that was set before him … endured the cross, scorning its shame" (Hebrews 12:2).
This message looks at the story of Jesus before the Sanhedrin and Peter's denial in Mark 14:53-72. What can we learn from the way Mark intertwines these two stories?
“The best place to find God is in a garden,” wrote George Bernard Shaw. But where is God in Gethsemane? He seems absent and silent as Jesus prepares for and then faces …
Our Journey to the Cross series starts with a story of betrayal and worship in Mark 14:1-11. The extravagant gift of the woman in this week's passage models for us …
This message looks forward to our 40 Days of Prayer during Lent. As well as a reminder of what this season of prayer will look like, Ellen also shares some teaching from Matthew 6:16-18 …
There was the charcoal fire, just like the one by which he had denied Jesus. “Simon, son of John,” he called him, not Peter. And there was the threefold question, “Do you love me?” …
James, the half-brother of Jesus had experienced persecution for his faith. He writes to Jewish Christians exiled from their homeland to explain that the resilience factor …
Moses faces a massive challenge ahead of him as God calls him to lead his people out of slavery. He feels ill-equipped and inadequate, but God provides …
Our faith is a faith characterised by hope, and hope is future-facing. Life must be lived forwards. But why should we live forwards? What are we living for? Starting a new series …
This message concludes our Resurrection Hope series. Resurrection hope means that Jesus rising again promises resurrection life for believers …
Push a domino in a stack, and others will fall. Take away the foundation of the building, and the structure will collapse. Similarly, if the dead don’t rise, certain things follow…
Today we begin a mini series on the resurrection using a key passage from 1 Corinthians 15. In this first talk, we will be examining the clear evidence that supports the resurrection …
The Bible describes a day when God will wrap everything up - a day of ‘Completion’. Four metaphors - The Body, the Courtroom, the Wedding, and the Garden …
This message gives a big picture story of the Spirit in the Bible before encouraging us to be filled with the Spirit, to go on asking for and growing in the gifts …
This message looks at the theme of Covenant as the backbone of our redemptive story. The OT covenants with Noah, Abraham, Israel and David …
“Jesus saw grace everywhere. Yet he never analysed or defined grace, and almost never used the word. Instead, he communicated grace through stories we know as parables …” (Philip Yancey).
The four words Paul uses to describe our situation BC (before Christ) paint a bleak picture which provides a backdrop for the far-reaching demonstration of God's love …
In this message Ellen and Andy unpack what Jesus meant when he taught about the Kingdom of God. As disciples of Jesus we are to have a kingdom mindset …
We have started a 7-week series called Words of Hope, a series that develops 7 themes which together paint the story of the New Testament. The theme for this week has been fulfilment …
Andy Morgan completes our two-part series on some of the lessons we have learnt from lockdown…
This Sunday is the first in a two-part mini-series called Lessons from Lockdown. The message looks at what we can learn about finding contentment and peace …
This message unpacks the example of sharing we see in the early church. This counter cultural gospel community shared one heart and mind …
This message looks at the believer's prayer in Acts 4:23-31. What kinds of prayers do they pray and what can we learn about praying with boldness and courage?
Peter and John have been hauled up before the Sanhedrin and commanded not to speak any more in Jesus’ name. But now with an outrageous but respectful defiance …
Peter and John have performed an outstanding miracle. A man who has been crippled for over 40 years has been healed. But the religious leaders aren’t happy …
Have your own copy of Acts 3:11-26 ready to underline as Andy explores Peter's speech and the power of gospel words. This message highlights how Peter points others to …
This message looks at the story of the lame beggar at the Beautiful Gate in Acts 3:1-10. We learn that Jesus is all that we have to share, and that can impact individuals …
It is clear from John’s Gospel that Jesus led his life with a strong sense of purpose. A simple four-letter word used repeatedly in John’s Gospel captures what that purpose was …
In John 5:1-15 Jesus meets a man who has been paralysed for 38 years. In one encounter with Jesus he is completely healed. This message thinks about the fact …
In John 4:1- 42, we listen into an encounter between Jesus and a stranger at a well. It's a deeply personal conversation, that happens in an everyday place
John 3:1-21 records the visit of Nicodemus to Jesus at night. In the unfolding conversation it becomes apparent that, although he is Israel’s teacher, , Nicodemus is also in the dark …
This third and final message in our series 'The Search' looks at Psalm 139 and what happens when we invite the Lord to search our hearts. We are known by Him …
The story of Zacchaeus shows us that while Zacchaeus was searching for Jesus, Jesus was searching for him. This message explore this story from Luke 19:1-10 …
“Everybody’s looking for something” sang the Eurythmics in their breakthrough hit Sweet Dreams in 1983. But are we looking for the right thing? And is it possible that what we are looking for is right in front of us?
Ken Benjamin's last message with us as Senior Minister before taking a sabbatical and going to work for LICC. Looking at 2 Timothy 3:14-17: what does it mean for us to continue …
How do we live well when we are in an unsettling in-between place? When we've left where we were, but haven't arrived where we're going to? …
Looking back with thankfulness to God for past blessing to bring present peace and future hope, even in the midst of trials and difficulty. Using Psalm 77.
In this the fourth and final message in our series P.R.A.Y., we look at what it means to yield in prayer. Once again, we take Matthew 6:10-13 as our starting point
Starting with Revelation 3:7-12. Looking at the application of the theme 'where do we grow from here?' and how it applies both now in these unique circumstances and …
In the third in our Pray series, Andy teaches on Asking prayer from Matthew 6:9-13: asking who do we ask, why do we ask, what do we ask and how can we ask?
In this, the second in our series P.R.A.Y., we reflect on the need to rejoice, whatever our circumstances. The reading is taken from Acts 11:19-26.
From Psalm 46:1-11. Starting a series within our online Sundays looking at prayer. This time looking at the need to begin by pausing.
An Easter Message for our 2020 online service. John 20:1-18. A lot has changed in a short time. Easter is the perfect time to regain some perspective.
This short Good Friday reflection looks at the verse in Matthew 27:46 where Jesus cries out from the cross feeling forsaken by His Father. The words of Jesus are a prayer of lament …
In the next instalment of Esther's story we look at how she embodies key New Testament principles for Godly living in her interactions with Xerxes.
This message summarises and explains our four key values at CBC. It uses Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3:14-21.
In the baptism of Jesus we discover who Jesus is, the love of God, the help of the Holy Spirit and Jesus as the one who identifies with us in our sin and weakness…
Following Jesus' baptism, Jesus is led into the wilderness where the devil tempts him. On the occasion of a baptismal service, we continue our Staying on Track series …
ESTHER SERIES. Esther 6 represents an example of ‘moving day’, a term used to describe God using circumstances to move things according to his will. We need to recognise …
If the man dubbed by Jesus as ‘the greatest’ could wobble in his faith, so might we. In reassurance Jesus sent messengers to John the Baptist pointing not only …
ESTHER SERIES. In Esther 5, we see Esther step up as leader and advocate for her people. A decision that involves risk and courage as well as careful, diplomatic strategy…
Ian and Rosi describe how they lost their daughter and how God helped them through grieving. A process that is still going on.
ESTHER SERIES. The Jewish people are facing disaster. There is one person, Queen Esther, who may be able to help, but she finds herself between a rock and a hard place …
In Psalm 78 and 2 Timothy 2:1-2 there is encouragement to pass on what we have received from the Lord to the next generation. This message thinks about the biblical imperative …
Why should we care about creation as Christians? We outline some of the key scriptural reasons that we think this should be part or our walk as Christians …
ESTHER SERIES. In Esther 3 we meet Haman for the first time and his plot to destroy the Jews, along with the irresponsible decision making of of King Xerxes …
What can we hold on to when God seems silent? Looking at Psalm 35:1-28 we pick out some key lessons, implications and applications for all of us…
The comparison between Adam and Jesus given by Paul in Romans 5:12-21 spells out the gospel with such clarity. This message unpacks the comparison …
Staying on track is important. If an in-service passenger train comes off the rails, it’s a serious business; and if someone’s faith is derailed, it’s a serious business …
ESTHER SERIES. In chapter 2 of Esther God arranges things. Circumstances, people, international relationships and more are the backdrop for God positioning his people …
This message looks at what causes us as Christians to drift in our faith and what we can do to ensure we stay on track. Drifting happens without us even realising it …
ESTHER SERIES. Esther is a remarkable book about a remarkable woman in a remarkable context - the royal palace of Susa in 483BC. But part of what makes the story so gripping …
We have so many opportunities to be distracted. Sometimes a good thing is also a distraction, because it isn't best. Distractions can draw our attention away …
What attitudes will help us become more like Jesus in the new decade? In this message Ian White explores what these might be using Philippians 3:10-16 as his launch point…
Starting the New Year with the start of our Staying on Track series. Demas is mentioned 3 times in the New Testament. What are the lessons for us …
In You Are Mine Max Lucado tells the tale of Punchinello, a Wemmick who gets caught up with the craze of acquiring boxes and balls. But when he stumbles …
(UN)EXPECTED SERIES. Throughout advent we have been reflecting on the (un)expected nature of the Christmas events - expected in some sense, but unexpected in others…
(UN)EXPECTED SERIES. Our second Carols by Candlelight service. Looking especially at the expected and unexpected elements of the Magi in the Christmas story…
UNEXPECTED SERIES. This advent message looks at the story in Luke 2:8-20 where the shepherds are visited by a host of angels. The angel announces the birth of Jesus …
(UN)EXPECTED SERIES. During the reign of Caesar Augustus, one of the great rulers of antiquity and called by the people of the time “the saviour of the world”, a new Saviour is born…
(UN)EXPECTED SERIES. As part of our advent series, we follow the story of Mary today, who in many ways was the expected but in other ways the totally unexpected woman chosen …
(UN)EXPECTED SERIES. This second of our advent messages looks at Joseph’s unexpected calling in Matthew 1:18-25. We can learn lessons from Joseph about how God works …
(UN)EXPECTED SERIES. The start of our 2019 Christmas series, looking at the promise of a rescuer to come in the Old Testament, especially Isaiah 9. The Christmas story …
GALATIANS SERIES. In drawing his letter to the Galatians to a close, Paul has one more point to drive home: we reap what we sow. Whether it’s in our gospel partnership, our personal transformation …
The idea of God choosing people to be saved leaves many asking “Why me, and why not my friends and relatives?” This message presents the mystery of the Christian faith in which it is God who saves and individuals who have a responsibility to choose God (or not).
GALATIANS SERIES. In a well-known and wonderful passage in Galatians, Paul tells us what living by the Spirit looks like - how it transforms us, and how it transforms others aswell…
GALATIANS SERIES. Paul affirms that the gospel he preaches has no place for human achievement and merit in earning salvation. But total dependence on the unmerited grace of God …
AskingForAFriend. In just one generation, the Western World view of
homosexuality and transgenderism has changed beyond recognition. A generation ago …
GALATIANS SERIES. The Christian life is not, as some imagine, a life that curtails our enjoyment, but one that brings freedom. But how do we find that freedom? And how do we keep it?
AskingForAFriend. This message address questions of how we can be more
holy both individually and collectively, and what a holy life looks like.
People reacted to Jesus' death in different ways. Some knew him, and some didn't; some mourned, and some were callous and indifferent; while for others …
AskingForAFriend. The Bible is God's inspired Word for us - given to help
us grow spiritually, and to point us to Christ. But sometimes we struggle to read it, or we struggle with what's in it.
GALATIANS SERIES. Through the preaching of the gospel the Galatians had come to put their trust in Christ. But now they were at risk of losing all of the progress that they had made …
AskingForAFriend. This second message in our series looks at how we deal
with the pain and disappointment of unanswered prayer. We look at Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane …
GALATIANS SERIES. Today in our Galatians passage, we discover the difference that Jesus has made to our relationship with God. To help us explore this more deeply, we look at four illustrations
AskingForAFriend. In the first of our new series we look at the subject of
death and what follows, starting from the questions submitted to the church. This talk touches on …
GALATIANS SERIES. Paul has argued that no-one will be justified by the works of the law. So what then is the law for? In this next carefully argued section of Paul's letter to the Galatians …
FRONTLINE SUNDAYS. How is meeting together missional and equipping for when we are not together? Ending our series on Frontline Sundays looking at Hebrews 10:24-25 and …
Jesus sent out 72 disciples, ordinary people like you and me, with a mission. Our task is not to identify our own mission, but to realise that as Christ’s disciples we …
FRONTLINE SUNDAYS. This is the fourth message in our Frontline Sundays series looking at how knowing who we are as children of God shapes the way we interact in our Frontline places.
GALATIANS SERIES. After nearly two chapters of his autobiographical defence of the gospel, Paul finally states in a nutshell what the gospel is: a person is not justified by the works of the law …
FRONTLINE SUNDAYS. Whatever we do – the ‘work’ of our hands, however small and insignificant it may seem – matters to God. It’s part of our worship and how we serve others …
GALATIANS SERIES. This autobiographical part of Galatians tells the story of Paul's trip to Jerusalem to ensure he is not running in vain. The leaders come to his defence and offer …
FRONTLINE SUNDAYS. This week in our series on Frontline Sundays we are thinking about how God can use us wherever we are. The story of Jacob, meeting God through a dream …
GALATIANS SERIES. In this autobiographical section of the book of Galatians Paul describes the impact of the gospel on his life. If he keeps coming back to to theme of the gospel …
FRONTLINE SUNDAYS. We are the church in mission – gathered and scattered – and we make all the difference in the world. The church is a body of people living a rhythm …
GALATIANS SERIES. Starting our Galatians series. The danger of adding anything else to the gospel such that it becomes an additional set of rules. Sometimes adding more takes away …
Fake news, alternative facts and warped messages are prevalent in our society. How come digital technology has turbo-charged fake news? In this talk Ian White analyses …
The most famous part of the most well known verse in the book of Esther talks about being called 'for such a times as this'. Essentially the application we take from this …
“Every once in a while a revolutionary product comes along that changes everything,” said Steve Jobs as he was introducing the first iPhone in 2007. He had no idea …
We live in a culture where the human treatment of the environment is increasingly becoming an area of debate and concern. Tonight's CultureWatch …
We continue our mini-series in Philemon examining Paul’s plea to Philemon on behalf on Onesimus to have his servant back, no longer as a slave, but better …
Continuing our look at aspects of our culture, we explore this year's biggest grossing film and what it tells us about our culture.
The letter to Philemon gives us a tantalising glimpse into the story of a runaway slave, Onesimus, who had since been converted, and was now returning …
Lessons from the artist LS Lowry. This was a baptist service in a day when we have baptisms in the morning too. We pick up lessons from a passionate communicator …
This message follows on from some people being baptised during the morning service. It looks at the story of Jesus' baptism and we find there some lessons about the way …
We start of our series looking at and learning from culture, including different examples from film, literature and the arts, and seeing what the lessons, illustrations …
In the Parable of the Lost Coin we see that everyone is valuable to God, and that all heaven celebrates when a lost one is found.
In these final verses of his letter, Peter encourages his listeners and readers once again to stand firm in the faith. How will they manage it?
The author of Psalm 119 clearly loved the Word of God. There is no other explanation for this psalm! So how did he come to love it so much?
As Peter starts to draw his letter to a close he has some special instructions for leaders in the church, for young men, and for the church generally.
In our final session in the Where do we grow from here? series, we look at the call to whole life discipleship. Exploring why this is important and what it looks like …
Suffering surprises us. We wonder how a God who loves us could let certain things happen to us - doesn't he care, or is he powerless to help?
Paul exhorts the Colossians to have a things-above mindset. This message thinks about what it means to have a Kingdom perspective and how our discipleship is influenced as a result.
Looking at the some lessons from the healing of Naaman. When God acts he does it his way. When we accept God is real it has implications for the whole of our lives.
In this section of 1 Peter, the apostle Peter encourages Christians to be armed with the same attitude of Jesus. This message looks at what follows when we shift our mindset …
Jesus wants his people to be fruitful. The helpful image of Jesus being the true vine, enables us to see how we can grow as those connected to him.
In this section of 1 Peter, Peter encourages his readers to think about how to live as believers under pressure, even persecution. An issue just as relevant for us today as we live for Christ in our frontline places.
What part does conviction play in sharing our faith? How do we take steps to build our own conviction and confidence so that we might be more fruitful ambassadors for Christ?
The instructions given to wives and husbands are both embedded in 1st century Roman culture and helpful for us today.
We have a relationship with a God who breathes. As the resurrected Jesus breathed on his fearful disciples he also commissioned them and sent them out.
1 Peter 2 offers very practical advice but is set in very different circumstances to our own so what can we apply from this passage and what can we learn from the advice given?
The good news should be good news in both word and action. On the back of the Noise project week, the good news in action has been obvious. What what about the message of the good news?
Peter explains to the gentile believers how some of the Old Testament images and truths now apply to all of them - how all believers in Jesus are now included …
John, in his Gospel, provides much evidence that Jesus was contented both to be in the place of obedience to his Father's will and to suffer and serve for the good of others.
Peter urges his readers to live a holy life, made possible by Jesus. This message presents the same call to us to life holy lives as disciples of Jesus.
John 14 gives us great reassurance and challenge. We examine our personal responsibility to be whole life disciples. Growth will come from individual disciples taking responsibility to share their own stories and faith.
Peter is writing to Christians in modern-day Turkey, encouraging them to stand firm in their faith. But before he gets to the heart of his letter …
The apostle Paul was willing to adjust his behaviour in order to win as many people as possible to Jesus. We have the timeless and unchanging message of Jesus …
Starting our Where Do We Grow From Here? series. Looking at some of themes which Ken is taking to other churches as President of our denomination ….
Peter is writing to the church at a very vulnerable time. His letter will encourage them to stand firm in the face of the troubles that are coming.
Thomas was not with the other disciples when Jesus made his post-resurrection appearance. It is easy to criticise him, but we all have our doubts.
Life can be difficult at times. What is the cure for our personal troubles, and the issues facing our world and our planet? Is there no cure?
This Easter Sunday morning message takes the story of Lazarus being raised from the dead and how it points us to Jesus as the resurrection and the life.
Exploring key themes for Palm Sunday. When Jesus comes to town he does not always meet our expectations but he always meets our needs.
A free subject, offering a response to recent developments related to homosexuality and same-sex marriage.