Sermons from Aberdeen Christian Fellowship: Recent Episodes
Aberdeen Christian Fellowship
We are an evangelical church associated with the Baptist Union of Scotland and situated in the city of Aberdeen, Scotland. Our worship services, fellowship opportunities, outreach programmes and courses to aid lifelong maturity are driven by our central passion: to make, mature and mobilise followers of Jesus Christ from the whole city.
*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6a33e9f2-df14-8332-bae8-ca52d6d1c550-38" data-turn-id-container= "request-6a33e9f2-df14-8332-bae8-ca52d6d1c550-38" data-testid= "conversation-turn-18" data-turn="assistant"> Cheri preaches from John 8:2–11, the story of the woman caught in adultery, where Jesus says, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." She explains that this passage has been on her mind because of her recent teaching on Rahab and because of pastoral conversations with young people, especially around questions of sexuality, gender, fear, shame and Christian discipleship. Cheri says the church often finds this subject hard to talk about because it is surrounded by fear. Some fear being misunderstood, accused of hatred or facing consequences for holding to a biblical sexual ethic. Others, especially those wrestling personally with sexuality or gender, fear rejection, judgement and being pushed away by Christians. Families and friends can also feel afraid of saying the wrong thing. She makes clear that her aim is not to debate the whole subject, but to ask how the church can respond to real people in a way that is faithful to Scripture and like Jesus. In John 8, the Pharisees drag a woman before Jesus, not because they care about righteousness, but because they want to trap him. If Jesus shows mercy, they can accuse him of rejecting the law of Moses. If he calls for stoning, he appears harsh and risks conflict with Roman law. Cheri compares this to the pressure the church feels today: go soft and risk denying Scripture, or go hard and risk losing people. Jesus refuses to play the role the Pharisees assign him. He does not shout, panic or rush to answer. He stoops, writes on the ground, and calmly takes control of the situation. Cheri sees this as a model for the church: we do not need to react in fear, outrage or culture-war terms. We can hand difficult questions back to God, the true lawgiver. When Jesus says, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone," he does not deny the woman's sin or reject Scripture. Instead, he exposes the unworthiness of the accusers. One by one, they leave. Jesus then speaks to the woman directly: "Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin." Cheri highlights both grace and truth. Jesus protects her before he commands her. He creates safety, then calls her to holiness. The sermon's main challenge is that the church must stop seeing people primarily as issues, debates or culture-war symbols. Instead, Christians are to see individuals made in God's image: sinners in need of grace, just like everyone else. Cheri calls the church to be a safe place of honesty, humility and transformation, where people can encounter Jesus, receive mercy, and hear his call to "go and sin no more." 0:00 Introduction: The Woman Caught in Adultery 2:07 Why This Passage Matters Today 5:00 Scripture, Sexuality and Wrestling Faithfully 8:52 From Culture War to Discipling Souls 12:38 Fear on Every Side 15:00 Reading John 8:2–11 18:00 The Pharisees' Trap 23:58 Jesus Refuses to Play Their Game 27:00 Let the One Without Sin Cast the First Stone 30:00 Neither Do I Condemn You 33:00 A Safe Place for Grace, Truth and Transformation _:empty]:hidden">
The Logos Hope team share a service centred on the power, authority and honour of the name of Jesus. The team begin by introducing themselves and the work of OM's Logos Hope. Bauka, from Kazakhstan, explains that although the team come from different countries, the focus is not on flags or national identity, but on introducing people to Jesus. He also asks the church to pray for Kazakhstan, where evangelical Christians are a very small minority. Anne Marie then shares a short testimony using the illustration of fleas in a jar. When a lid is placed on the jar, the fleas learn to jump only so high; even when the lid is removed, they keep living as though they are still restricted. She connects this to Ephesians 4, encouraging people not to live trapped by past hurt, fear or limitation, but to walk freely in the calling God has given them through Christ. Gloria's main message focuses on God's name. She begins by asking people to think about the name of someone they love, showing that a name is not just a sound or label — it represents the person. In the same way, God's name reveals his character, authority and presence. She teaches from the third commandment, warning against taking God's name in vain. This does not only mean using God's name as a swear word; it means treating his name as empty, casual or powerless. Gloria challenges the church not to reduce God's name to everyday slang, but to recover reverence for the name of the Lord. She then explains that God revealed himself to Moses as "I am who I am", showing that God is self-existent, unchanging and unlike any human being. In the New Testament, this power and revelation are fully seen in Jesus Christ. Gloria points to passages such as Acts 4:12, Philippians 2:9–11, Romans 10:13 and Proverbs 18:10, showing that salvation, help, deliverance and refuge are found in the name of the Lord. Gloria walks through several names of God, including El Elyon, El Shaddai, Jehovah Jireh, Jehovah Shalom, Jehovah Rapha, Jehovah Nissi, Jehovah Rohi and others. Each name reveals something of God's character: provider, healer, peace, shepherd, righteousness, sanctifier, restorer and Lord of hosts. Her main challenge is that believers should honour the name of God, call on him with faith, and trust that the power in the name of Jesus is still active today. The sermon closes with declarations over the names of God and a call to live with renewed confidence, reverence and dependence on Jesus. 0:00 Logos Hope Team Introduction 0:27 Bauka from Kazakhstan 2:01 Praying for Kazakhstan 2:36 Anne Marie's Testimony 3:13 The Fleas in the Jar Illustration 4:12 Living Worthy of God's Calling 5:47 Gloria Begins: The Name of God 9:35 Why Names Matter 12:35 Do Not Take God's Name in Vain 17:25 The Name Above Every Name 20:38 Calling on the Name of the Lord 24:25 The Names of God 29:36 Declarations Over God's Names 36:57 Closing Challenge and Response
James preaches from Isaiah 6:1–8, where Isaiah sees the Lord in the year King Uzziah died. He begins by reflecting on Bob Dylan's song "The Times They Are A-Changin'", using it to introduce the theme of living in times of change, uncertainty and instability. His central message is: In a time of change and uncertainty, we need to fix our eyes on the one who is unchangeable and completely dependable. James explains that Isaiah's vision happened at a real point in history, around the death of King Uzziah. Uzziah had reigned for 52 years, so his death marked a time of national transition. There was uncertainty about what kind of king Jotham would be, and Uzziah's own downfall was a reminder that even strong human leaders are flawed. Against that background, Isaiah says, "I saw the Lord." James stresses that while earthly kings come and go, the true King remains seated on the throne. The Lord is high and exalted, in complete authority over history, nations, creation, and our personal lives. James then turns to the details of Isaiah's vision: the Lord's robe filling the temple, the seraphim covering their faces and feet, the shaking doorposts, the smoke, and the antiphonal cry: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." He explains that God's holiness is central to who he is. God is utterly different, pure, separate from sin, and glorious. The phrase "Lord Almighty" or "Lord of Hosts" reminds us that God has countless heavenly beings at his command, serving his purposes and ministering to his people. James also reflects on the glory of God in creation, using the Isle of Skye as an example of breathtaking beauty. But he says there is an even greater glory: the glory of redeemed humanity, people transformed by the grace of God and made part of the new creation. Isaiah's response is not pride but repentance. He cries, "Woe to me! I am ruined!" James points out that a true encounter with God reveals our sinfulness, even in our best actions. Isaiah recognises that he is a man of unclean lips living among a people of unclean lips. But God responds graciously. A seraph touches Isaiah's lips with a live coal from the altar and declares his guilt taken away and his sin atoned for. James connects this to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood takes away sin. Finally, Isaiah hears the Lord ask, "Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?" Isaiah responds willingly: "Here am I. Send me." James highlights that Isaiah offers himself before knowing the full cost. His surrender comes from having seen the Lord. The sermon ends by challenging believers to respond in the same way: in uncertain times, look to the unchanging Lord, receive his grace, and make ourselves fully available to him. 0:00 Introduction: The Times Are Changing 2:07 Change, Uncertainty and the Unchanging God 4:10 Reading Isaiah 6:1–8 6:12 The Year King Uzziah Died 10:15 Isaiah Sees the Lord on the Throne 14:20 The Seraphim Around the Throne 16:22 Holy, Holy, Holy 20:26 The Lord Almighty and His Heavenly Hosts 24:28 The Whole Earth Is Full of His Glory 28:30 Isaiah's Repentance and Cleansing 32:33 Here Am I, Send Me
Florence preaches from 1 Corinthians 13:1–7, focusing on the "missing ingredient" in the Corinthian church: love. She begins with a humorous cooking illustration, adding the wrong amount of garlic and almost forgetting the chicken in a curry, to show that sometimes one essential ingredient can be missing. In Corinth, the church had spiritual gifts, activity and ability, but they lacked love. Florence explains that the love Paul describes is agape love: a self-giving love that keeps giving even when the other person does not deserve it. This is the love of God, shown most clearly in Jesus Christ. She then asks two main questions. First, why is love important? Paul says that even impressive gifts — eloquent speech, prophecy, knowledge, faith, generosity and sacrifice — amount to nothing if they are not exercised in love. The Corinthian church was assessing itself by its gifts, but God assesses his people by their fruit, especially love. Spiritual gifts do not compensate for a lack of Christlike character. Second, what does love look like? Florence walks through Paul's description: love is patient and kind; it is not envious, boastful, arrogant, rude, selfish, irritable or resentful. Love does not delight in wrongdoing or gossip but rejoices in the truth. It protects, trusts, hopes and perseveres. She applies each quality practically: patience with difficult people, kindness that genuinely blesses others, humility rather than self-promotion, refusing to keep a record of wrongs, avoiding gossip, believing the best where possible, and continuing to hope for redemptive change because failure does not have to be final. Florence admits that none of us naturally measures up to this picture of love. Replacing the word "love" in the passage with our own name can be discouraging. But replacing it with Jesus fits perfectly, because Jesus is the fullest expression of love. Since his Spirit lives in his followers, Christians are equipped to grow in this kind of love. She closes with three responses: develop a fresh appreciation of God's love for us, desire a fresh rekindling of our love for him, and display a fresh outpouring of love for others. The sermon ends by pointing to the love of Christ shown at the cross, and introducing the hymn "Here Is Love, Vast as the Ocean." 0:00 The Missing Ingredient 1:45 Reading 1 Corinthians 13:1–7 3:01 Agape Love: The Love That Keeps Giving 4:56 Why 1 Corinthians 13 Sits Between Spiritual Gifts 5:48 Why Love Is Important 7:34 Gifts Without Love Are Nothing 12:53 What Love Looks Like 17:03 Love Is Not Selfish, Irritable or Resentful 22:13 Love Rejoices in Truth and Endures 24:41 Responding to God's Love
*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6a33e9f2-df14-8332-bae8-ca52d6d1c550-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-6a33e9f2-df14-8332-bae8-ca52d6d1c550-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-8" data-turn="assistant"> Jeremy preaches from Mark 4:35–41, the account of Jesus calming the storm. He begins by connecting the disciples' fear in the boat with our own experiences of anxiety, uncertainty and hardship. Even when we know Jesus is with us, difficult circumstances can make us ask the same question the disciples asked: "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" Jeremy shares honestly about his own anxiety, including the move from Singapore to Aberdeen, and uses the story of his young nephew on a rope playground to show how fear can overwhelm trust, even when help is close by. The sermon is built around three truths about Christ. First, Christ is in control. Jesus was asleep in the boat, but that did not mean he was unaware or powerless. Jeremy points out that Jesus knew they were going to "the other side." The storm was real, but it was not outside Christ's authority or purpose. Second, Christ cares. Jesus did not have to calm the storm, but he responded to the disciples' distress with compassion. Jeremy reminds the church that Jesus' care is seen not only in moments of help and comfort, but supremely in salvation. Christ cares for his people because they are loved children of the Father. Third, Christ calls us to grow. Jesus' question — "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" — was not a rejection of the disciples, but an invitation into deeper trust. Jeremy explains that Jesus was teaching them to look beyond the storm and remember who was in the boat with them. The main challenge of the sermon is to respond to life's storms with faith. Christians are not promised a life without hardship, but they are promised the presence of Christ. Because Jesus is in control, because he cares, and because he is growing our faith, we can trust him and be still. YouTube Chapter Markers 0:00 Reading Mark 4:35–41 1:04 Opening Prayer and Introduction 2:06 Jeremy's Story of Anxiety and Moving to Aberdeen 3:07 The Rope Playground Illustration 4:08 The Disciples' Fear in the Storm 6:09 When We Ask, "God, Don't You Care?" 8:13 Three Truths About Christ 10:18 Christ Is in Control 12:23 Christ Cares for His People 17:32 Christ Calls Us to Grow 20:35 Learning to Trust God in the Storm 23:43 Peace Be Still: Faith in Christ's Presence
Part 1 – The Ten Commandments overview. Derek reads Exodus 20 and makes three points: the commandments were given after God's rescue of Israel (not as a condition of it), they're guidance for the saved rather than a means of earning salvation, and each one is a broad principle meant to be applied widely rather than treated as a tick-box exercise. He illustrates this with the 8th commandment ("you must not steal"), showing it covers tax evasion, underpaying workers, time-theft, and misusing power of attorney. Part 2 – The blind spot. Turning to the 9th commandment ("you must not bear false witness"), Derek argues it also covers ignoring or failing to investigate credible reports of wrongdoing — illustrated with a dashcam analogy about withholding evidence from police. He grounds this in God's character as one who hates injustice (Proverbs, Psalm 97), then gives three extended case studies of the church failing this test: the Ravi Zacharias scandal, corruption he personally witnessed in a Pakistani mission hospital (including the human cost of stolen aid money), and a cover-up in an Aberdeen church after a woman reported a sexual assault. He then offers five reasons Christians stay silent: Pollyanna syndrome (disbelief that Christians could do wrong), fear of bad publicity, fear of personal cost, inadequate hatred of evil, and spiritual warfare/demonic discouragement. He's careful to note not all allegations are true, but they must still be properly investigated rather than dismissed. Part 3 – Brief notes on confidentiality and when it must be breached for safeguarding, naming the church's safeguarding leads, before ending on a hopeful note from Revelation about the ultimate triumph of good. 00:00 Intro: A Blind Spot in the Church02:11 The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20)06:56 Applying the 8th Commandment: What Counts as Stealing?09:16 The Blind Spot: Redefining "Bearing False Witness" 11:00 Illustration: The Dashcam Witness 14:00 Case Study: Ravi Zacharias 17:00 Case Study: Corruption in a Pakistan Mission Hospital 22:00 Case Study: Cover-up in an Aberdeen Church25:14 Five Reasons Christians Stay Silent 31:00 Safeguarding, Confidentiality & Closing Hope
*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:5f940a21-305f-4565-941a-28a5cd2fedab-88" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:5f940a21-305f-4565-941a-28a5cd2fedab-88" data-testid= "conversation-turn-12" data-turn="assistant"> Vijay's sermon concludes the Psalms series by focusing on Psalm 145, a psalm of praise by David. His central point is that praise is what happens when our hearts catch up with reality — when we truly see God as he is. He begins by observing that people naturally talk about what they love: football, children, hobbies, interests. Yet Christians often struggle to speak of God with that same wonder. Psalm 145 shows that praise is not something we simply switch on emotionally. It grows as we give God our attention, remember his works, see his character, recognise his sustaining care, and discover his personal nearness. Vijay's first point is that praise begins when we choose to give God our attention. David starts Psalm 145 with the words "I will", showing that praise begins with a deliberate act of focus. In a distracted world of notifications, worries and constant scrolling, our attention is easily captured by small things. Worship re-centres us on the greatest reality: God himself. The second theme is remembering God's faithfulness. Vijay notes that humans often remember wounds, disappointments and threats more easily than blessings. But when we only remember the painful parts of life, we distort reality. Scripture repeatedly tells God's people to "remember" because forgetting God leads to fading wonder and fading praise. The sermon then moves to God's character. God's greatness is not merely power; it is greatness joined to goodness. David describes the Lord as gracious, merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Christians see this most clearly in Jesus: welcoming sinners, touching lepers, weeping with the grieving, and dying for rebels at the cross. Vijay also highlights that life itself is a gift sustained by God. Creation is not independent or self-running. Every breath, heartbeat, meal and moment depends on the God who opens his hand and gives life. Recognising this dependence produces gratitude. Finally, the sermon reaches the personal wonder of Psalm 145: the infinite God is near to those who call on him. Unlike human greatness, which often creates distance, God's greatness means that nothing escapes his care. He notices every detail, every tear, every cry for help. Praise deepens when we see that the God who rules the universe also turns toward us in love. Vijay closes by connecting Psalm 145 to the whole book of Psalms. The Hebrew title of Psalms means "praises", even though the book contains lament, sorrow, fear and confusion. This is because every part of life, even the darkest parts, can become part of praise when placed within the greater reality of God's greatness, goodness, kingdom and fatherly care. YouTube chapter markers 00:00 Introduction and thanks to those serving children and youth01:03 Why we naturally talk about what we love02:04 Psalm 145 and where praise really comes from03:07 Praise begins when our hearts see reality05:13 Reading Psalm 145: David's praise of God06:16 Praise begins with choosing to give God our attention10:20 Remembering God's mighty works and faithfulness15:00 God's works reveal his gracious and merciful character20:00 Life itself depends on God's sustaining care24:45 The infinite God is personally near to those who call31:59 The whole journey of the Psalms leads to praise36:07 Closing prayer: fixing our eyes on God
The Text: Psalm 126 (New Living Translation) — a psalm of praise recalling Israel's return from exile in Babylon. Opening Hook — The "Fresh Start" Effect Vijay begins by observing the universal human longing for a fresh start — at New Year, birthdays, or even a Monday morning. Beneath that, he argues, is a deeper desire: not just to improve, but to be made new — to undo mistakes and mend what's broken. That longing, he says, sits at the heart of Psalm 126. The Historical Context The psalm recalls Israel's return from decades of Babylonian exile. When the Persian king Cyrus allowed them to go home, it seemed impossible — like a dream. The surrounding nations even marvelled: "The Lord has done amazing things for them." Vijay notes this sits at the literal centre of the psalm — the focus is on what God did, not what Israel achieved. The Deeper Exile Israel's real problem was never Babylon — that was just a symptom. Their deeper problem was distance from God. And Vijay broadens this: it's everyone's story. All humanity was created for relationship with God but has wandered far — making us all spiritual exiles. Jesus as the Way Home Jesus didn't come merely as a moral teacher or inspiring figure. He came to bring exiles home. At the cross, he experienced the exile we deserved — crying out "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" — so that we could be brought in, adopted as children of God, and welcomed home. Restoration Is a Process When the psalmist prays "restore our fortunes," it seems puzzling — weren't they already home? Vijay explains: restoration has begun, but it isn't finished. He illustrates this with a vivid image of a derelict house. When someone buys it, the ownership changes instantly — but the renovation takes time. Similarly, when someone trusts Christ, they belong to God immediately, but God then begins the ongoing work of rebuilding from the inside out. The Desert Image The psalmist prays for restoration "as streams renew the desert" — referring to the Negev, where dry riverbeds suddenly burst to life when the rains come. The prayer is: Lord, do that for our dry places — our regret, grief, guilt, and shame. Closing — Sowing in Tears The psalm ends with a farmer image: he weeps as he plants, because every seed buried could have fed his family — yet he trusts the harvest. That, says Vijay, is what faith looks like. Not just believing in your head, but entrusting yourself fully to God's promises even when you can't yet see them. Every act of obedience — forgiving someone, resisting temptation, keeping on praying through disappointment — is sowing seed in hope. The final promise: tears are real, but they're not the last chapter. The harvest is coming. The Bible ends not with sorrow or exile, but with joy — every sin removed, every tear wiped away, every exile brought safely home. 0:00 Introduction & Series Context 1:18 The Fresh Start Effect 2:19 The Deeper Longing to Be Made New 3:32 Psalm 126 — Reading 4:46 Israel's Exile and the Impossible Return 6:44 God's Amazing Things — The Centre of the Psalm 7:16 Israel's Story Is Everyone's Story 8:49 Jesus — The Way Home 10:33 Restoration Has Only Just Begun 12:09 The Derelict House Illustration 14:36 Streams in the Desert 15:29 Sowing in Tears — What Faith Looks Like 18:28 The Final Chapter Is Joy 19:32 Baptism — Being Brought Home
Florence continues the series "Lament, Trust and Praise", moving into the theme of praise through Psalm 118. The sermon's main message is that God's people are called to praise him not only when life is easy, but also in times of difficulty, because his love endures forever. She explains that Psalm 118 is full of confidence in God's steadfast love, mercy, goodness and faithfulness. The psalm may have been used at Passover, and Florence notes its strong connection to Jesus, especially as he approached the cross. The sermon follows five main responses from the psalm. First, we should thank the Lord for his enduring love. The repeated phrase "his love endures forever" reminds us that God's love outlasts every difficult circumstance. Florence encourages listeners to say this truth aloud and let it shape their perspective. Second, we should focus on the Lord in difficult situations. The psalmist is hard pressed and surrounded by enemies, yet he keeps returning to the truth that the Lord is with him and is his helper. Florence encourages believers to take refuge in God rather than relying ultimately on people or circumstances. Third, we should praise the Lord for what he has done. The psalm speaks of the Lord's right hand acting with power. Florence encourages specific praise, not vague thankfulness, and suggests remembering the many ways God has helped, protected and sustained us. Fourth, we should rejoice in the Lord's provision of a Saviour. Florence highlights the verse, "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone," explaining that it points to Jesus. Though rejected by people, Jesus is God's chosen foundation. Through him, believers are saved from sin and given secure hope. Finally, we should exalt the Lord for his goodness and love. The psalm ends in personal praise: "You are my God, and I will praise you." Florence explains that praise means adoring God for who he is and thanking him for what he has done. The sermon closes by encouraging listeners to praise God throughout the week, especially when life is hard. 0:00 Introduction: Lament, Trust and Praise 0:39 Psalm 118: Praising God in Difficult Times 1:04 Praise in Every Circumstance 2:05 God's Enduring Love and Faithfulness 3:07 Five Bends in the Road 3:52 Give Thanks: His Love Endures Forever 7:13 Focus on the Lord in Difficulty 13:24 Praise the Lord for What He Has Done 20:39 The Rejected Stone Becomes the Cornerstone 25:46 Rejoice in the Day the Lord Has Made 29:53 Rejoice in the Lord's Provision of a Saviour 31:56 Exalt the Lord for His Goodness and Love
James' main theme is that Psalm 100 calls God's people to praise Him with their whole being. Psalm 100 is a "doubly perfect" psalm because it contains two sets of seven: seven encouragements to praise God and seven reasons to praise Him. The sermon first walks through the calls to worship: shout joyfully, serve gladly, sing, give thanks, praise, be thankful, and bless the Lord's name. Praise is presented as something expressive, joyful, grateful, and active—not just singing, but the whole life of worship and service. The second half gives the reasons for praise: Yahweh alone is God, He made us personally, we belong to Him, we are the sheep of His pasture, He is good, His mercy/loving-kindness lasts forever, and His truth endures to all generations. The sermon ends by encouraging the congregation to respond to Psalm 100 in worship. 00:00 Introduction to the Psalms series and theme of praise02:39 Psalm 100 as a "doubly perfect" psalm04:14 Seven encouragements to praise God05:14 Make a joyful shout to the Lord07:19 Serve the Lord with gladness08:37 Come before Him with singing09:34 Enter His gates with thanksgiving11:24 Enter His courts with praise and be thankful13:57 Bless the Lord's name15:57 Seven reasons to praise God18:15 Yahweh alone is God and our Creator21:22 We are His people and the sheep of His pasture26:22 God is good, merciful, faithful, and true
Speaker: Vijay Main Bible passage: Psalm 121 Theme: Trusting God to keep us through the whole journey of life. Vijay closes the Psalms of Trust section of the series by preaching from Psalm 121, one of the Songs of Ascents sung by pilgrims travelling to Jerusalem. He frames life as a pilgrimage: we move through changing seasons, uncertainty, weakness, ageing, and eventually death. Psalm 121 speaks to travellers who know the road may be long and difficult, but who are promised that the Lord will keep his people all the way home. The sermon gives four reasons why the Lord can be trusted on life's journey. First, God is powerful enough to keep his people. When the psalmist says, "I lift up my eyes to the hills," Vijay explains that ancient pilgrims would not only see beauty but danger: exposure, robbers, exhaustion, and uncertainty. The answer is not found in the hills themselves, but in the Lord, "who made heaven and earth." Faith lifts our eyes beyond the problem to the Creator. Second, God is attentive enough to preserve his people. Vijay highlights the repeated word "keep" in Psalm 121. God does not promise a pain-free life, but he does promise that suffering, evil, and calamity will not finally destroy his people. Like a harness on an aerial adventure course, God may not prevent every stumble, but he prevents the final fall. Third, God is always near. The Lord is described as "your shade at your right hand." Vijay explains that the right hand was the vulnerable side in battle, so this image shows God standing close to his people at the place of greatest weakness. God does not merely send help; he himself is the help who walks beside us. Fourth, God's keeping is total and comprehensive. The psalm's language, heaven and earth, day and night, going out and coming in, now and forevermore, shows that no time, place, season, or circumstance lies outside God's care. Vijay notes that the psalm leaves the danger unspecified so each believer can fill in the blank: diagnosis, grief, family heartache, uncertainty, or anything else. The promise remains: the Lord will keep you. Vijay ends with the image of a turbulent overnight flight. The passengers may panic because they cannot see the route, but the journey depends on the pilot, not the passengers. In the same way, our hope is not in our own strength or understanding, but in the Lord who keeps us. One day the journey will end, the final hill will be behind us, and we will look back and say, "He kept me." Key Takeaway Psalm 121 assures God's people that the journey may be hard, frightening, and uncertain, but the Lord who made heaven and earth is powerful, attentive, near, and faithful. He will keep his people from now and forevermore. 00:00 Opening thanks and OM update 02:23 Psalms series: moving from trust to praise 03:01 Life as a pilgrimage 04:58 Introducing Psalm 121 06:57 Reading Psalm 121 08:26 God is powerful enough to keep us 11:11 "My help comes from the Lord" 16:34 God is attentive enough to preserve us 18:02 What "keep you from all evil" means 21:16 "He will not let your foot be moved" 23:53 The God who never slumbers or sleeps 26:55 God is always near 30:42 God's keeping is total and comprehensive 35:10 The turbulent flight illustration 37:06 The promise: the Lord will keep us 38:46 Closing prayer
Speaker: James Main Bible passage: Psalm 62 Theme: God is completely trustworthy as our refuge in every circumstance. James continues the church's series through the Psalms, moving through the theme of trust. After Psalm 23 showed the Lord as shepherd and Psalm 27 showed the Lord as protector, Psalm 62 presents the Lord as our refuge. Trust, James says, is not optional for Christians; it is part of the whole journey of faith from beginning to end. He explains that Psalm 62 is not abstract theology. David wrote it out of real experience: enemies, danger, betrayal, and pressure. David had learned through life that God was his salvation, rock, defence, glory, strength, and refuge. A major phrase in the sermon is "my soul silently waits for God." James reflects on both outward silence and inner stillness: the peace of waiting for God, trusting that he will act. But the Psalm also honestly acknowledges enemies and distress. David's peace is disturbed by the reality of opposition, yet that leads him back to telling his own soul to keep waiting on God. James then highlights the central command of the Psalm: "Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your heart before him." This is where trust and lament meet. Trusting God does not mean pretending everything is fine. It means bringing pain, fear, grief, crisis, and confusion honestly to him. He gives examples of what this looks like: in health crises, financial trouble, betrayal, bereavement, and any situation where life feels overwhelming. God as refuge does not mean we avoid every storm, but that the storm will not finally engulf us. James also warns against false refuges. David tells us not to place ultimate trust in people, status, wealth, possessions, or security. These things may fail, but God remains trustworthy. The sermon closes with praise. Psalm 62 ends by showing God as powerful, loving, and just. James connects this to the cross of Jesus Christ, where God's power, steadfast love, and justice meet. Jesus is the ultimate proof that God is our refuge, because through him our sins are paid for and we are safe from judgment. Key Takeaway Psalm 62 calls us to trust God at all times, pour out our hearts before him, and refuse false refuges. God is our rock, salvation, defence, and refuge — worthy of complete trust from the beginning of life to the end 00:00 Introduction: lament, trust, and praise 01:02 Psalm 62: trusting the Lord our refuge 01:34 Tutankhamun's mask and seeing Psalm 62 up close 03:02 Psalm 62 as sung worship from David's real life 04:49 "My soul silently waits for God" 06:40 God as salvation, rock, and defence 08:15 David confronts his enemies 12:02 David tells his soul to keep trusting 16:56 "Trust in him at all times, you people" 20:01 Pour out your heart before him 22:33 Trust and lament in real life 23:38 God as our refuge above the floodwaters 26:35 False refuges: people, status, and possessions 29:41 Hearing God's truth twice 32:04 God's power, steadfast love, and justice 34:23 The cross: where power, love, and justice meet 35:57 Closing prayer
Speaker: Cheri Main Bible passage: Psalm 27 Theme: Trusting God when we feel under attack. Cheri presents Psalm 27 as a prayer and song for those who feel afraid, accused, misunderstood, mistreated, or under threat. The Psalms are described as the prayer book and songbook of God's people, giving us words to pray when we do not know what to say. The sermon focuses on God as light, salvation, and stronghold. Because the Lord is our protector, we do not need to fight our battles in our own strength or react out of fear. Cheri uses images of ancient fortresses, Scottish hill forts, and historic battles to show how God can cause enemies to stumble without us needing to take control. A key theme is learning to wait for the Lord. Some threats are misunderstood or perceived; others are very real and painful. In both cases, Psalm 27 calls God's people to confidence rather than fear. Cheri also highlights David's "one thing": to dwell in the house of the Lord and gaze on his beauty. His courage comes from intimacy with God. This is connected to fixing our eyes on Jesus, who endured opposition and the cross without losing heart. The sermon closes by warning against treating God like a magic wand or genie. God's help is often a process, not an instant event. We come to him honestly, ask him to teach and lead us, and trust that his goodness will be seen as we wait. Key Takeaway When we feel under attack, Psalm 27 teaches us to seek God as our protector, stay focused on him, bring our fears honestly to him, and wait with courage for his goodness to come through. 00:00 Opening and introduction to Psalm 27 00:45 The Psalms as prayers for God's people 03:46 Psalm 27: a prayer for those under attack 05:10 "The Lord is my light and my salvation" 07:06 Enemies stumble and fall 10:07 Letting God fight for us 12:43 "One thing I ask": dwelling with the Lord 13:19 Fixing our eyes on Jesus 15:51 God keeps us safe in his dwelling 17:04 The tabernacle as David's place of safety 20:12 David's honest prayer to God 21:12 "Come and talk with me" 23:16 God is not a magic wand 24:48 God's help is often a process 25:17 "Wait for the Lord" 26:48 Final encouragement: be strong and take heart
*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6a04951b-91fc-8325-a0f7-14234eb9f2df-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-6a04951b-91fc-8325-a0f7-14234eb9f2df-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Main Bible passage: Psalm 23 Theme: Trusting God reshapes our inner life. Vijay introduces this sermon as the beginning of ACF's move from Psalms of Lament into Psalms of Trust. He explains that trust is central to the whole life of faith, even in lament, because lament brings suffering towards God rather than turning away from him. The sermon defines biblical trust as placing yourself in the care of God. Unlike mechanical trust, such as trusting a car to work, trusting God is personal: it means becoming vulnerable before him because of who he is. Psalm 23 is then explored as a picture of how trusting the Lord transforms our inner life. 1. Trust forms contentment David begins, "The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing." Vijay explains that "shepherd" in the ancient world was not only a caring image but also a royal image of authority and rule. Everyone has a "shepherd" — something that leads their life, whether success, approval, control, money, culture, or God. False shepherds train the heart to feel it is always lacking. But when the Lord is our shepherd, we learn contentment. This does not mean having everything imaginable, but no longer experiencing life as fundamentally deficient. 2. Trust forms peace in suffering When David speaks of walking through the darkest valley, Vijay notes that valleys were dangerous but often necessary routes for shepherds to take their sheep to pasture and water. Life can feel like that: dark, confusing, frightening, and beyond our control. He contrasts explanation with peace. We often seek relief through diagnosis, answers, or understanding, but explanations have limits. The deepest peace comes from the Lord's presence: "You are with me." In the valley, David stops speaking about God and begins speaking to God. Vijay connects this to Jesus, who entered suffering himself on the cross, crying out from Psalm 22, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Because Jesus has walked through suffering from the inside, believers can trust him in the valley. 3. Trust gives courage before enemies In verse 5, the image shifts from shepherd to host. God prepares a table in the presence of enemies, anoints David's head with oil, and makes his cup overflow. Vijay explains that in the ancient world, this was a powerful sign of welcome, protection, honour, and belonging. The enemies are still present, but David is not overwhelmed because he belongs to the Lord. Vijay illustrates this with the courage of the 21 Egyptian Christian labourers killed by ISIS in Libya, who refused to deny Jesus because they knew they belonged to him. 4. Trust strengthens hope for the journey home Vijay closes with verse 6: "Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life." He explains that the Hebrew word translated "follow" carries the stronger sense of pursue. God's goodness and love do not casually trail behind his people; they pursue them. Using Francis Thompson's poem The Hound of Heaven, Vijay describes God as the one who lovingly pursues people, not to destroy them, but to bring them home. Psalm 23 ends not merely with sheep returning to a pen, but with God's people dwelling in the house of the Lord forever. Key Takeaway Trusting the Lord as shepherd changes the inner life of a believer. It forms contentment, gives peace in suffering, fills the heart with courage before enemies, and strengthens hope that God will pursue his people with goodness and love until he brings them home. 00:00 Introduction: moving from lament to trust 01:49 What biblical trust means 03:04 Introducing Psalm 23 04:58 Trust forms contentment 06:26 Everyone is led by a shepherd 09:31 False shepherds create a sense of lack 10:54 God provides what we need 13:43 The shepherd refreshes and guides 14:44 Trust forms peace in suffering 18:56 "You are with me" 20:49 Jesus enters the valley of suffering 23:13 Trust gives courage before enemies 25:22 The 21 Egyptian Christian martyrs 28:03 Trust strengthens hope for the journey home 28:39 God's goodness and love pursue us 29:31 Francis Thompson and The Hound of Heaven 32:28 Final reflections: the shepherd brings us home 33:36 Closing prayer
Sermon summary Florence preaches on Psalm 77 as part of a series on lament, trust, and praise, focusing especially on lamenting unanswered prayer. She begins by naming the "noise inside our heads" — worry, doubt, distress — and explains that the Bible does not sugarcoat painful realities. Biblical lament is presented as a faithful practice: crying out to God, bringing complaints honestly, asking God to act, remembering what he has done, and ultimately reaffirming trust. Psalm 77 shows Asaph in deep distress. He cries out to God, prays through the night, cannot sleep, and asks raw questions about whether God has rejected him or forgotten to be compassionate. Florence emphasises that these honest questions are included in Scripture, showing that God can be approached with raw emotion. The turning point comes when Asaph chooses to remember God's past faithfulness. His focus shifts from his circumstances to God's character. Florence draws out four movements in the psalm: Asaph looks around, looks in, looks up, and looks back. Remembering God's works leads him to praise God's holiness, power, and faithfulness. The sermon then points to the Exodus, where God made a way through the Red Sea — "a pathway no one knew was there." Florence applies this to those who feel trapped in sorrow or weariness, suggesting that God may still be leading them through, even when they cannot yet see the way. Finally, she connects the "way" to Jesus Christ, who calls himself the way in John 14:6. Unlike Asaph, Christians can also look forward to the hope of eternal life, where God will wipe away every tear. The closing encouragement is: whatever is happening in life, look around, look in, look up, look back, and look forward. 00:00 Introduction: the noise inside our heads 01:21 The Bible does not sugarcoat reality 01:36 Recap of the lament, trust, praise series 02:42 What biblical lament is 04:08 "Hallelujah Anyway" and remembering God's goodness 05:13 Psalm 77: lamenting unanswered prayer 06:37 Asaph looks around: crying out to God 08:23 Crying out as a faith-filled step 09:55 Asaph names his struggle and complaint 11:06 Lament is not a quick formula 12:04 God's timetable and growing trust 13:41 Asaph's honest questions to God 15:30 Raw questions are welcomed in Scripture 16:20 The mismatch between belief and experience 17:17 God's character is reliable despite our feelings 18:53 The dark before the dawn 19:14 Asaph looks in: remembering what God has done 20:46 The importance of what we think about 22:48 Asaph looks up: praising God's character 23:40 Remembering God's works leads to praise 25:04 Practising praise in private prayer 25:49 Keeping our eyes on Jesus 27:00 Asaph looks back: God's rescue at the Red Sea 28:27 Feeling trapped in sorrow or hopelessness 29:21 A pathway no one knew was there 30:45 Jesus as the road, the way 31:50 Following Jesus does not exempt us from sorrow 32:27 Summary: look around, in, up, and back 33:39 Christians can also look forward 34:43 The future hope of no more tears 35:03 Closing encouragement: look around, in, up, back, and forward
Derek's sermon on Psalm 58 explores how Christians should respond to widespread injustice, corrupt rulers, and evil actions in the world. He explains that lament is biblical: believers do not need to pretend everything is fine, but should bring suffering, injustice, and wrongdoing honestly before God in prayer. He distinguishes lament from grumbling. Lament brings complaint to God in faith; grumbling complains without prayer and can imply giving up on God's goodness or power. Psalm 58 is then presented as both a lament and an imprecatory psalm—a prayer asking God to restrain or punish evildoers. Derek acknowledges that its violent imagery is difficult for Christians, but argues that much of the language is hyperbolic and aimed at asking God to stop wicked people from continuing their harm. He then wrestles with the tension between Psalm 58 and Jesus' command to love enemies and pray for persecutors. Derek argues that Christians should love enemies and hope for their repentance, while also taking comfort that God will ultimately judge evil and may rightly be asked to restrain wicked actions now. The sermon applies Psalm 58 to unjust rulers, false teachers, abusive individuals, and others who harm people through lies, violence, corruption, or abuse. Derek concludes that God notices injustice, cares deeply, and will finally bring justice: punishment for the unrepentant and vindication for those who trust in Christ.
Vijay preaches on Psalm 51, David's great psalm of repentance after being confronted by Nathan over his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah. The sermon begins by distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy guilt. False guilt can burden people for things that are not their fault, while real guilt can become unhealthy if it traps us in the past. But healthy guilt faces sin honestly and leads us towards repentance, change, and restoration with God. Vijay explains that Psalm 51 teaches us that repentance begins not with ourselves, but with God's character. David appeals to God's steadfast love and abundant mercy. Forgiveness is not based on how sorry we feel, how much we punish ourselves, or whether we can "forgive ourselves"; it rests on the mercy of the God who forgives. David then confesses his sin without excuse. He names it as transgression, iniquity, and sin: rebellion against God, inner corruption, and missing the mark. Though David's actions hurt Bathsheba, Uriah, and others, he recognises that all sin is ultimately against God. The sermon then moves to David's request for cleansing. Vijay explains that David is asking for more than legal pardon or ritual cleansing; he wants God to restore the relationship and cleanse him from the inside out. This leads to the heart of the psalm: "Create in me a clean heart, O God." True repentance is not only asking to be forgiven, but asking to be changed by the Holy Spirit. Vijay shows that forgiveness changes people outwardly too. David says he will teach sinners God's ways and praise God again. Forgiven people become reconcilers and worshippers. The example of John Newton and Amazing Grace illustrates how God's mercy can reshape a life and continue teaching others long afterwards. The sermon also stresses that God desires a broken and contrite heart, not merely outward religious acts. David's failure does not become a good thing, but God uses even repentance after failure to teach humility and bring restoration. Finally, Vijay explains that sin is never purely private. David's sin damaged his kingdom, but his restoration also had wider effects. God continued his promises through David, Solomon, and ultimately Jesus. The sermon closes with the story of Mick Fleming, whose life of trauma, violence, guilt, repentance, and transformation shows how God meets broken people, forgives them, changes them, and makes their lives a source of good for others. Core message God meets us in guilt, forgives us through his mercy, changes us by his Spirit, restores us into relationship with him, and uses our restored lives for the good of others and the glory of God.
In this opening message in our Psalms series, Florence introduces Psalm 13 and shows how biblical lament gives us a faithful way to bring our pain, confusion, and sorrow to God. Lament is not grumbling or faithlessness. It is an honest expression of faith that teaches us to: cry out to God complain to God honestly ask Him to act reaffirm our trust in Him Through Psalm 13, we see David move from "How long, Lord?" to renewed trust, rejoicing, and praise. Even when circumstances do not immediately change, God remains good, present, and worthy of our trust. This sermon encourages us not to deny our heartache or hide it, but to bring it openly before God and walk the pathway of lament toward hope. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and introduction 00:22 New Psalms series 03:02 What is lament? 05:02 Lament vs grumbling 06:37 The four elements of biblical lament 09:10 Jesus as our example in lament 10:46 Psalm 13 overview 12:31 "How long, Lord?" 15:29 Honest complaint to God 22:12 Asking God to act 25:37 Trust, rejoicing, and praise 31:54 How to practise lament 33:40 Closing encouragement from Hebrews 4:16
"Hope Against Hope" — Easter Sunday Sermon Vijay opens with a vivid image: a man walking through a village destroyed by a storm finds a rooster standing on the wreckage, chest out, crowing with full confidence. It seems absurd until you realise the rooster isn't responding to the ruins. It's responding to the risen sun. That image sets up the whole sermon: Christians can speak of hope even amid devastation, because of what God has done through the resurrection of Jesus. The central idea is that hope is not denial of reality. It's giving more weight to God's promises than to what circumstances look like. Vijay illustrates this through two Old Testament figures. Abraham, old and childless, receives God's promise of countless descendants. Everything about his situation says it's impossible, yet he trusts God's word over his own circumstances. Jeremiah, with Jerusalem on the verge of falling to the Babylonians, is told by God to buy a field. A seemingly ridiculous act that only makes sense if you truly believe God will bring His people home one day. Both men hope against hope, not because things look better, but because they trust the God who made the promise. Hope, Vijay argues, rests on two things: God's faithfulness, meaning He always keeps His word, and God's power, meaning He is able to do what seems impossible in order to keep it. This all builds to Easter. Jesus arrives, doing things only God can do, looking every bit like the fulfilment of God's long-promised restoration. Then He is crucified, and hope appears to die with Him. His followers scatter, devastated. But on the third day, God raises Jesus physically from the dead, not as a symbol or metaphor, but as proof of just how far He will go to keep His promises. The resurrection, Vijay says, is not a one-off miracle from the distant past. It is God's guarantee of what is still to come. Jesus is described in the Bible as the "firstfruits from the dead", meaning what happened to Him will one day happen to all who trust in Him. Even death is not the final word. The sermon closes with a challenge: God's promises will not fail, but they have to be received. Like a fully paid train ticket that's yours for the taking, the journey is real, the destination is waiting, but you have to choose to get on board. The ruin we see around us is real, but the risen Son is more real. And that is what Easter proclaims.
Dave opens with a lighthearted reflection on early birds vs. night owls, using his five-year-old son Douglas (who storms in at 5am in full builder's gear) as a bridge into the day's theme - Palm Sunday and the clocks going forward giving him a welcome extra hour's sleep. He then explores the Palm Sunday story from Matthew 21 through four questions: Where : Jerusalem was deeply significant, chosen by God as his dwelling place since the time of David and Solomon, and a city Jesus clearly loved and wept over. Its history stretches back to Abraham's encounter with Melchizedek, and it was always close to God's heart. How : Jesus rode a donkey's colt, fulfilling Zechariah's prophecy about the coming king. This was intentional: not on foot (too low-profile), not on a horse (too militaristic), but on a colt, a symbol of royalty and gentleness. After three years of keeping a low profile, Jesus was now openly declaring himself as the Messiah. When : Jesus arrived during Passover, when Jerusalem swelled from 50,000 to 180,000 people. Crucially, Palm Sunday fell on the 10th day of the month, the very day, per Exodus 12, when the Passover lamb was to be selected and set apart. Jesus, the Lamb of God, was arriving on schedule. Why : He came to reveal his true identity and accomplish an eternal rescue, not merely from Roman occupation as the crowds hoped, but from sin itself, for all people. The crowd's cries of "Hosanna" and "Son of David" (drawn from Psalm 118) were more prophetically loaded than they realised. Dave closes by noting that Palm Sunday points forward to the full arc of Holy Week, the Last Supper, the cross, and the empty tomb, and that Jesus came ultimately to rescue each one of us and give us eternal hope.
Mhairi's sermon centres on Jonah and the "sign of Jonah" in Matthew 12, showing how Jonah's story points forward to Jesus' death and resurrection. She begins by connecting Jesus' words to the Old Testament story of Jonah. Jonah was called by God to go to Nineveh and preach against its wickedness, but instead he ran away in the opposite direction. His disobedience led him into danger at sea, where a violent storm threatened the ship. Even there, God used Jonah's failure for good, because the sailors came to fear and worship the true God. After Jonah was thrown overboard, God provided a great fish to save him. From inside the fish, Jonah prayed in humility and dependence, realising that salvation comes from the Lord. Mhairi's point is that God often provides for us even before we properly ask, though not always in the way we expect. When God called Jonah a second time, Jonah obeyed and went to Nineveh. The city heard the warning, repented, and turned back to God. This shows that God is a God of second chances—not only for Jonah, but also for the Ninevites. God had not given up on either of them. The sermon then highlights Jonah's anger when God forgave Nineveh. Jonah knew God was gracious, compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, but he struggled to accept that such mercy should extend to people he judged undeserving. Through the object lesson of the plant, God exposes Jonah's narrow vision: Jonah saw only wicked people, but God saw people, lives, and a city worth showing mercy to. Mhairi sums up the book with a series of contrasts: God appealed; Jonah absconded God provided; Jonah prayed God called; Jonah conceded God forgave; Jonah was furious God justified; Jonah judged She then returns to Matthew 12, where Jesus says no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the fish, Jesus would be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. But whereas Jonah's experience led to the saving of a city, Jesus' death and resurrection bring salvation to the world. The closing application is that God still appeals, provides, calls, forgives, and justifies today. For those who do not yet know Christ, the invitation is open. For Christians, the encouragement is that through Jesus they will stand saved before God, just as the repentant Ninevites will.
James reflects on the Transfiguration of Jesus in Mark 8:27–9:10, describing it as a true "mountaintop experience" that gave the disciples a preview of Christ's glory and the coming kingdom of God. He begins by setting the scene near Caesarea Philippi, likely placing the event on Mount Hermon. Before the disciples go up the mountain, three major truths are established at "base camp": First, Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah. Second, Jesus explains that being the Christ means he must suffer, be rejected, die, and rise again. This shocks the disciples, especially Peter, who resists the idea of a suffering Messiah. Third, Jesus says that anyone who follows him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him. So discipleship is not a path of comfort or glory in this world, but one of sacrifice. James then explains Jesus' statement that some standing there would see the kingdom of God come with power. He suggests this is fulfilled, at least in part, in the Transfiguration, which acts as a sneak preview of the kingdom. On the mountain, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John aside into solitude. James emphasizes the importance of this: believers need times alone with God, away from distraction. At the Transfiguration itself, Jesus' appearance is dramatically changed. James explains this as Jesus' divine glory shining through his humanity. The disciples are being shown that Jesus is not merely a man, but God and man in one person. This moment was so powerful that it stayed with the disciples for the rest of their lives. Then Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus. James says they likely represent the Law and the Prophets, both pointing to and converging in Christ. According to Luke's Gospel, they speak with Jesus about his coming "exodus"—his death in Jerusalem, through which he will deliver his people from sin, death, and Satan. Peter, overwhelmed, blurts out a suggestion to build shelters, but he does not understand what he is saying. Then a cloud covers them and God the Father speaks: "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him." This confirms Jesus' true identity and gives the central application of the passage: listen to Jesus. When the vision ends, the disciples see only Jesus. James highlights this as the focal point: all revelation leads them back to Christ, but now they see him more clearly. As they come down the mountain, Jesus tells them not to speak of what they have seen until after his resurrection. James explains that the final proof of Jesus' identity is not the Transfiguration itself, but the resurrection, which publicly demonstrates that he truly is the Son of God. James closes with the sermon's practical lessons: follow Jesus, even on the hard road of self-denial; listen to Jesus above all other voices; and live in hope, because the Transfiguration is a foretaste of the glory still to come for Christ and his people. The sermon ends with an encouragement to remain faithful, carry the cross, and look forward to the coming kingdom, where there will be no more sorrow, pain, or death.
"Building on the Right Foundation" Core Illustration The sermon opens with the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an impressive structure undermined by a shallow foundation on marshy ground, as a metaphor for lives built on the wrong things. The Two Houses (Matthew 7:24-29) Jesus closes the Sermon on the Mount with a parable of two houses. Both face the same storms; only one survives. The difference isn't appearance, it's the foundation. Rock vs. sand. Everyone Has a Worldview The preacher argues that everyone "lives in a house" meaning everyone operates from some philosophy of life, whether they realise it or not. The question is whether that worldview can bear the full weight of life's hardest questions: grief, death, identity, suffering, betrayal. Even Christians Can Build on Sand The warning isn't just for unbelievers. Christians can drift into a shallow faith — mixing pop psychology with Bible verses, or building on good-but-insufficient things like belonging, community, or entertaining worship experiences. These are furniture, not foundation. The Real Test is Crisis Storms don't discriminate. Crisis exposes whether your foundation was ever solid. The wise builder prepares before the storm arrives, like practising a fire drill before the building is burning. Hearing + Doing = Solid Rock The foundation Jesus describes requires two things together: hearing his words and doing them, like cement and water forming concrete. Admiring Jesus's teaching isn't enough. Real knowledge produces action. Those who hear but never obey may be fooling themselves entirely. Closing Illustration A Turkish school collapsed in a 2003 earthquake because corners were cut and safety codes ignored. From the outside it looked fine, until the shaking came. Earthquakes reveal what corrupt inspectors miss. Life's crises do the same. The Call Build on Christ, not feelings, not cultural Christianity, not belonging alone. Hear his words and follow them.
David continues the church's Sermon on the Mount series, framing it like crossing a mountain pass: you can't relax too early or lose focus before you're "all the way off the mountain." He says Jesus' teaching demands a response, not just hearing, but doing (quoting James 1), like the kids at the church's Spark group who often know the right answers but don't always live them out. The sermon focuses on Matthew 7:13–23 and presents three "choices" Jesus sets before listeners as the series reaches its final section ("the kingdom response"): 1) Choose the narrow gate (not the wide gate) David contrasts the wide gate/broad road (easy, popular, "do whatever feels right," no effort) with the narrow gate (costly, requires obedience, growth, and often going against the crowd). He uses a piano analogy: playing any notes you want is "freedom" but produces noise; following the "sheet music" is harder but creates beautiful music. The narrow gate involves a 180-degree turn (repentance), not a small adjustment. Application: "What are you carrying that won't fit through the narrow gate?" Like a dog with a stick too long to pass through, you may need to put something down. 2) Choose discernment about who you listen to (watch for false prophets) Jesus warns about false prophets: they look like sheep but are wolves. David tells a story from his student days when someone claimed Jesus had returned "in secret" to a hall in Aberdeen, an example of why discernment matters. Key clarification: false teachers aren't the same as flawed teachers. Every preacher is imperfect and should be accountable and open to questions; that's different from someone intentionally distorting truth for self-gain. How to spot false teaching: Test what's said against Scripture. Look for fruit in the teacher's life (echoing Galatians 5: love, joy, peace, etc.). Not perfection, but evidence of the Spirit's work. He warns especially about online platforms where there's often little accountability and algorithms can pull people toward harmful teaching. 3) Choose genuine discipleship (not empty profession) Jesus' warning:"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord'…is presented as a call to self-examination, not judging others. Some may say and even do impressive religious things, yet lack real relationship with God; their works are for show, and Jesus says, "I never knew you." David describes two common reactions: Burdened/anxious faithful: reassured with "My grace is sufficient for you" (2 Cor 12:9). Jesus isn't trying to crush sincere believers. Convicted/comfortable: urged to respond and seek real relationship, quoting John 14:23 (love shown in obedience). Closing emphasis These aren't one-off decisions but daily choices in lifelong discipleship. He ends with a C.S. Lewis quote about the spiritual battle beginning each morning: making space for God's "stronger, quieter life" to shape us deeply (like dye soaking through, not paint on the surface). The final encouragement: choose Jesus' way, seek first his kingdom, and live a responsive, obedient, relationship-rooted faith.
*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:3d19f5b2-8b43-4c74-a4a7-1e4f119a533b-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Context: Part of a series through the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7). Vijay frames the sermon as what life looks like when Jesus is truly King—citizens living under God's reign. Main passage: Matthew 7:1–6 ("Do not judge…"; speck/log; pearls before pigs). The central claim: the judge's seat is already occupied—Jesus alone has the ultimate right to judge, justify, and condemn. What "do not judge" means (and doesn't mean): It doesn't eliminate moral clarity or discernment, or mean "anything goes." It does confront a judgmental spirit: self-righteous condemnation that forgets our own need for grace. What judgmentalism looks like: Quick verdicts without the full story, fault-finding without kindness or desire to restore, using "truth" to elevate self and diminish others, and placing labels that can crush people. Illustrations: Train story: People assume a dad is careless while his kids misbehave—until they learn the mother has just died. The behaviour hasn't changed, but perspective does: judgment often lacks crucial context. Baker/farmer scales: The standard you use comes back on you—mirroring Jesus' "measure you give will be the measure you get." Deeper warning: Jesus points beyond social reciprocity to final judgment before God. The way we judge others reveals what we believe about grace and mercy. Harsh, mercy-less judgment implies we think mercy "shouldn't count"—but no one survives God's pure justice without mercy. The opposite of judgmentalism: Not moral neutrality, but mercy and forgiveness that still names wrong as wrong while longing for restoration rather than ruin. The speaker cites Luke 6 ("forgive…"), and Colossians 3:13–14: forgiveness flows from remembering God's forgiveness and from love that "keeps no record of wrongs." The speck/log teaching: Jesus' absurd image exposes how self-righteousness makes us unfit to help—a person with a "beam/telephone pole" in their eye can't do eye surgery. Judging others often reveals our own pride, insecurity, and unaddressed sin. But Jesus still expects correction: The goal isn't silence. After removing the log, you can see clearly to help remove the speck. Humble, repentant people can help; hypocrites cannot. Why verse 6 matters ("dogs/pigs/pearls"): Even when correction is loving and humble, some will reject it. Discernment protects what's holy and protects you from wasting what's precious or being harmed. Kingdom people are judicious, not judgmental—grace without gullibility. Closing story (shepherd): "Sheep won't come near a man with a raised stick." People respond better to someone who "smells like the fold"—the "smell of mercy." The advice: go first to the Great Shepherd, let Him deal with your pride, then speak. Prayer: Confession of self-righteousness and a plea to be "staggered by grace," so that believers offer mercy when helping others, becoming more like Jesus.
Cheri continues a Sermon on the Mount series with a challenging message on money, possessions, and "kingdom living" (Matthew 6). She asks what our bank accounts and goals reveal about our true priorities, warning that storing up earthly treasure shapes our hearts and loyalties. Unpacking Jesus' teaching about the "good eye," she connects generosity with spiritual clarity and shows how greed creates divided focus, like trying to run toward two finish lines. She also explores "mammon" as a rival master, arguing that trusting wealth for security easily becomes a kind of idolatry. While affirming the goodness of work and provision, she distinguishes that from the desire for more than we need, and links hoarding to worry and the modern illusion of control. The invitation is to seek God's kingdom first, trust a generous Father who knows our needs, and step into a freer, more content life marked by generosity rather than fear.
Summary This is a sermon in a series on the Sermon on the Mount. Florence has reached the "peak" (the central teaching) and will focus on the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:5–13). She begins with how not to pray (avoid performative "hypocritical" public prayer; avoid mindless "babbling"), then move into how to pray, unpacking the Lord's Prayer as a model with two dimensions: a vertical focus on God (God's name, kingdom, will) a horizontal focus on human needs (provision, forgiveness, spiritual protection) She notes these form a "cross" shape (vertical + horizontal), highlighting the cross as central to Christian faith. Key points 1) How not to pray (Matt. 6:5–8) Don't turn prayer into a performance aimed at being seen by others. Don't "babble" — i.e., don't repeat words unthinkingly or incoherently; prayer should be conscious of who God is. 2) How to pray: the Lord's Prayer (Matt. 6:9–13) Vertical (God-centred) "Our Father in heaven": God is intimate ("Father" through adoption in Christ) yet transcendent ("in heaven" → reverence and awe). "Hallowed be your name": asking that God's reputation/holiness be honoured in the world and in our lives; motivation to live in a way that reflects the "family likeness." "Your kingdom come": God's reign has already begun (in Christ and in believers) and is still coming in fullness; praying for God's rule in personal life, the church, and the future new creation. "Your will be done… on earth as in heaven": described as hard because humans resist surrender and control; the speaker argues trust grows by knowing God's unchanging character (loving, just, holy, etc.). The "on earth as in heaven" line is presented as a bridge between vertical worship and horizontal needs; heaven's obedience is pictured as willing, immediate, uncomplaining—an example for believers. Horizontal (needs-centred, but "us/our" communal) The plural language ("us/our/we") means the prayer is corporate, not just individual: we pray for one another and the wider church. 3) Three human needs in the prayer Physical provision: "daily bread" explained historically (many were paid daily, buying food for the next day). It includes broader needs (shelter, clothing, work). Links to manna and to Jesus as the "bread of life," urging daily dependence on Christ, not just material fullness. Relational/forgiveness: "forgive us… as we forgive" is treated seriously (including v.14–15). Florence clarifies salvation isn't earned by forgiving, but forgiveness of others is bound up with genuine repentance and receiving God's forgiveness. Forgiveness is framed as giving up the right to pay back, which frees the forgiver and moves them toward God. Spiritual protection: "lead us not into temptation" is explained as asking God to help us remain steady in testing; God doesn't tempt to evil, but may allow tests, while the evil one tempts. The desired response in tests is to submit to God's sovereignty and commit the situation repeatedly to him (not "one-and-done"). Includes an illustration/prayer attributed to Stuart Briscoe about weakness and asking deliverance from the evil one.
Description The session highlights the importance of being God-centered in life and prayer, introducing a sermon series on the Sermon on the Mount. It discusses the Beatitudes as a recipe for happiness, emphasizing mercy, right choices, and pure thoughts.Vijay encourages genuine relationships with God over seeking human approval, illustrating the dangers of hypocrisy. Ultimately, it promotes living for God and finding fulfillment in His recognition. ##GodCentered #Happiness #Beatitudes #Prayer #GenuineRelationship" Q&A What is the focus of today's sermon? Today's sermon will focus on our motives regarding giving and prayer, as taught by Jesus. What does First Thessalonians 2:4 emphasize about our actions? It emphasizes that we should aim to please God rather than people, as He tests our motives. What are some key ingredients for a happy life according to Jesus? Key ingredients include being merciful, seeking righteousness, being a peacemaker, and having a pure heart. What does Jesus mean when he says that God rewards those who seek Him in secret? Jesus emphasizes that God's rewards are not material trophies but a deeper relationship with Him, highlighting the relational aspect of being seen by God. What warning does Jesus give about practicing piety? Jesus warns that practicing piety to impress others can lead to hypocrisy, where the focus shifts from genuine relationship with God to seeking human approval. How does Jesus illustrate the concept of hypocrisy through the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector? In the parable, the Pharisee's self-righteousness contrasts with the tax collector's humility, showing that true righteousness comes from recognizing one's need for God's mercy.
Cheri brings us the word and we look at Isaiah 7:14 and the prophecy he gave. We unpack how we sometimes interpet prophecy through a familiar pagan lense and how instead we should remember that prophecy unfolds in the ways God chooses it to
James brings us the word We look at Isaiah's prophecy and learn who he said Jesus would be, the 4 titles he is given and what he would do.
Derek brings us the word as we kick off our Christmas series. We look at Genesis 3: 1-15 and learn that what happened at Christmas was the culmination of what God had beeen planning for 1000s of years. We see the first disclosure of God's plan of salvation in The Garden of Eden and we focus in on the true significance of Christmas. Which is often pushed aside, diluted, or for some, completely unknown.
This was a baptism service. David brought us the word and we looked at Joshua Chapter 5. We learned how circumcision was an ouward symbol of an inward reality, belonging to God. Much like baptism.
Cheri brings us the word. We look at Chapter 4 of Joshua. We learn the importance of putting up menorials in our lives that remind us of the work God has done in our lives.
David brings us the word and we look at Joshua 3. Israel has reached the critical point of their journey, they are stepping into the promised land. It is a story of faith in God and his working out of his plans, even when it seems like an impossible journey.
Today James brought us the word. We looked at Chapter 2 of Joshua and explored the story of Rahab. We learned about what it means to have faith, what it looks like, where it comes from and the acting out of it. We glance into the books of James, Hebrews, Ephesians, Matthew and 1 Corinthians to gain a bigger picture of her story. We discover that Rahab wasn't a side story in God's plans but instead saving her was his main focus. Like with Rahab, his focus, transformational love, grace and care for us is intentional and not a background thought.
Florence kicks off our new series on Joshua. We begin in Joshua 1:1-18 and look at how the new generation trust in God's promise, encouragement and direction and use that to encourage one another.
Derek brings us the word and we look through Jeremiah.
We ask questions about why there is suffering and brokeness in our world and what happens when we depart from God and live under the wrong authorities.
We look at how the human failure to acknowledge YAHWEH as the LORD of rigteousness and justice is the root of human problems. We also unpack some of what it means when the bible says that Adam and Eve came to know good and evil, and how that affects us today.
We learn about how God wants us to live like him, justly and righteously.
Cheri brings us the sermon
We look at spiritual warfare and how culture, upbringing, pride and fear has influenced our understanding of spiritual beings and their influence.
We learn about how God is sovereign over all of these things
This time David brings us the word.
We look at Deuternonomy 7: 6-11
We take a look at the working out of the covenant between Israel and God. We ;earn about how we are already blessed by God and why we had to pay nothing for that blessing.
This time Vijay brings us the word and we look at Psalm 115.
We learn that what we worship is being reflected through us. How worshipping empty hollow things, idolatry, makes us reflect hollowness. But also how worshipping the living God makes life and light reflect from us.
This time James brings us the word
We look at Deuteronomy 4:11-16 and Isaiah 44:6-20
We explore the foolishness of idolatry and we ask ourselves the question, are we creating God in our OWN image?
David talks us through Exodus 3:1-15
We learn about the origin and meaning of the name YAHWEH
Cheri brings us our second sermon in our new series, Yahweh among the gods.
We walk through the story of Yahweh declaring his authority over the gods of Egypt in the book of Exodus.
We know the familiar story of God delivering the Hebrews from Egypt, but now we delve into the the battle within the spiritual realm during that time. The story of God's unrivalled power over very real deceptive powers. We face some difficult ideas as we learn about the destruction that misplaced worship brings. We ask the question, is the Bible simply just wild myths folded in with good philosophy or is Yahweh really unrivalled amongst other spiritual forces.
Vijay kicks off a brand new series with us.
- Yahweh among the gods -
The first sermon in this series is about God the Creator!
We dive into Genesis 1:1-2:3 and learn how the creation story of the Bible is unique amongst all creation stories.
Derek walks us through the relevance of Old Testament Law in our lives as Christians.
We learn a bit about what is still applicable, what isn't applicable and what we can still learn from.
James's sermon focuses on the difference between doubt and unbelief.
We look at the story of Thomas and Jesus in John 20:19-21, 24-29.
Florence bring us to today's sermon.
She walks us through the importance of patience in the Christian walk.
Derek brings us this sermon.
He addresses 3 issues that Christians often have with the Old Testament.
James delivered us a sermon covering the incredible Psalm 51:1-17.
Psalm 51 is a psalm of repentance written by David when the prophet Nathan came to him after his affair with Bathsheba.
James walks us through the different stages of saying sorry to God.
The preparation, the confession, the cleansing and the confidence we can have in God, based on his promises in scripture.
This service we were blessed to see four of our congregation get baptised!
Before they shared their testimonies, Vijay shared this short sermon.
In this sermon he spoke to us about how a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, provides the belonging, clarity and satisfaction we desire and need.
He explained how we were created to function with him and not apart.
The promise in John 10:10 is unpacked an we learn that we find our home in Christ.
David takes us through part 10 of our Evangelism series.
He walks us through the very last section of the biblical account of Paul ~ Acts 21-28.
We saw that, even in this desperate situation, Paul still took every single opportunity provided to him to share the hope he had in Christ. The amount of power the individuals had, or did not have, didn't deter him.
He just continued to be a faithful witness, even at the risk of his own life. He stayed faithful to Christ.
Florence brings us the word for Part 9 of our Evangelism series.
The passage is Acts 20:17-27.
Vijay takes us through Acts 18:1-11
The sermon is titled; When a Door Closes.
In Evangelism it is our job to faithfully, respectfully and thoughfully share the good news and tell of Christ.
If this is what we do, then we are not responsible for the outcome.
For God can even use rejection to reach out to those who don't know him.
Like Paul, we must not be results motivated, but instead, be motivated simply by our obedience to Christ.
David took us through the next section of our evangelism series.
The passage he covered was Acts 16: 23-34, Paul and Silas in prison.
The sermon explores the affects of Paul and Silas's actions and reactions to their situation.
It shows us that we can turn moments of extreme sufferring into moments of worship, into moments of faith.
The story begins with captivity but it ends in freedom, not just for Paul and Silas from prison, but freedom in the form of spiritual deliverance, for the jailor and his entire household.
Continuing on in our Evangelism series, Vijay Takes us through the sermon.
The sermon is titled 'Pointing to Jesus, Not Ourselves'.
The passage we look at is Acts 14:8-18.
Whilst sharing the gospel, Barnabas and Paul are believed to be God's by the people of Lystra.
We continue on in our evangelism series.
Today Cheri takes us through the story of Paul and Barnabas meeting the Magos, Elymas.
Acts 13:1-2 is the passage Cheri takes us through and the sermon is about the importance of speaking truth and confronting lies from a place of love, as Christ did.
Malcolm brings us the word as we continue on in our new Evangelism series.
Acts 9:19-25 is our passage for this sermon and it follows Saul/Paul as he leans into the new heart Christ has given him for mission. We learn that our past does not define us, but the present creation God has made us into is what counts. We discover that for mission, humbly starting off from where we are is a good thing, because God will grow us as we go!
David begins a new sermon series titled "Your Mission Should You Choose to Accept It," focusing on the importance of evangelism and sharing faith. He discusses the story of Saul/Paul in Acts 9, highlighting his transformation and call to mission.
James concludes the Set on Jerusalem series with a sermon on 7 stages in Jesus's final journey to Jerusalem.
Cheri delivers a sermon focused on Luke 13:31-35, discussing Jesus's journey to Jerusalem, his encounter with Herod, and his message to the city. The sermon emphasizes the contrast between earthly power and God's eternal perspective, and the importance of choosing God's kingdom over worldly pursuits.
We have Pastor Vijay preaching. He draws from Luke 13:22-30.
This sermon explores the urgency and nature of entering God's Kingdom.
Using the image of a narrow door, Vijay highlights that it requires sincere effort and a personal decision to follow Jesus.
The sermon cautions against relying on lineage, past associations or a casual acquaintance with faith, emphasizing that genuine commitment, humility, and a turning away from sin are essential for those who seek to be part of the Kingdom of God.
The message serves as a call to self-reflection, urging listeners to examine their own hearts and ensure they are actively pursuing a relationship with Christ that leads to eternal life.
We have Florence bringing us the word. We look at Luke 10:38-42.
Florence delves into the biblical account of Mary and Martha to highlight the crucial distinction between urgent tasks and truly important priorities.
It underscores the value of choosing to sit at Jesus' feet, symbolizing dedicated worship and seeking His presence daily, even amidst the demands of life.
The message serves as a practical guide for listeners to evaluate their own lives, urging them to guard against the tendency to be consumed by the urgent and instead intentionally cultivate a consistent focus on what holds eternal significance – a relationship with God.
It encourages self-reflection on how one manages daily pressures and how to ensure that responding to immediate needs doesn't overshadow the vital practice of daily worship and spiritual connection
Vijay begins new series on the Gospel of Luke called Set on Jerusalem: Lessons for the Journey.
This sermon focuses on the cost of following Jesus, drawing from Luke 9:51-62.
It emphasizes that while following Jesus brings immense gain, it also requires sacrifice and a commitment to prioritize Him above all else.
The message challenges listeners to examine their dedication and ensure that their lives reflect eternal, kingdom priorities.
We have David preaching from The Book Of Consolation
A sermon by Pastor David on Isaiah 55, focusing on God's offer of abundance and salvation, the guarantees He provides, and the decision we must make to accept His offer.
We have our beloved Pastor Vijay preaching
The sermon focuses on atonement for those burdened by sin, explaining the Hebrew word for atonement and how God made Christ the atoning sacrifice. It references Isaiah's suffering servant, who was pierced for our rebellion and crushed for our sins.
Today David Lokked at the mercy of god and finishing First Kings chapter 17, looking at verses 17-24.
Pastor Vijay Pillai continues our new series on Elijah. Vijay discuses what it means for God to provide for us, looking at 1 Kings 17:7-16.
Florence begins a new series looking at the story of Elijah
Elijah finds himself in the Kerith Ravine trusting in the Lord. How does this apply to our lives?
Psalm 46.1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
Pastor Vijay delivers an encouraging sermon reminding us to wait for dawn.
Derek brings us a message much needed in our lives. Derek mentions 4 ways we can fufill Jesus' command in Matthew 5:16 "Let your light so shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven"
Vijay completes the 1 Peter series - teaching from 1 Peter 5:6-14. He speaks on the subject of humility and its key to unlocking God's Grace
David continues the 1 Peter series teaching from 1 Peter 4:12-19 on the theme of Suffering for Christ
This wek we celebrated a baptism service, the testimonies are included. Vijay also continues the 1 Peter series teaching from 1 Peter 4:7-12
Florence continues our series on 1 Peter, She dives into and answers questions about Wives, Husbands, & Relationships
Florence continues our 1 Peter series - this week she talks about Christ as the Cornerstone of the church, the Living stone
Vijay continues the 1 Peter series, speaking form 1 Peter 1:13 - 2:3. How does Christian hope affect the way we should live our lives.
Pastor Vijay Pillai continues our series on Abraham's Journey. Vijay focuses on Genesis 21:1-21, Abraham “sends away” Hagar. Hagar finds herself alone in the desert with her son on the brink of death. Hagar was not alone, God was there. God saves Hagar & her son Ishmael.
Pastor David Young continues our series on Abraham's Journey. David talks about Abraham pleading with God to spare the cities of Sodom & Gomorrah. (Genesis 18:16-33)
Does Abraham change God's mind?
Does not God not care about the sins of the wicked?
Why does God spare the wicked in proximity to the righteous?
Pastor Vijay Pillai continues our series on Abraham's Journey. Vijay looks at Genesis 17:1 - 18:18. Vijay begins with talking about circumcision and who falls under God's covenant. He then moves onto Abraham and Sarah being visited by 3 surprise visitors.
Derek continues the series on Abraham's Journey while also speaking about the current conflict in the middle east.
Derek reads Genesis 17:1-14 & focuses on 3 Main topics:
- The life of following God for old and new testament believers
- Following God has external aspects (obedience & conduct) and internal conflicts (heart attitude)
- The vexed and divisive issue in of The Land
Florence continues the series of Abrahams Journey by looking at Genesis chapter 16. Sarai, Abrams wife is unable to have children, and offers her maid servant Hagar to Abraham. Hagar is treated poorly by her mistress and runs away. She is later found by god in the desert. There she is conforted in the fact that He sees her and she's amazed at the fact she sees Him. What comfort can we have from knowing God sees us regardless of the situation we find ourselves in.
Vijay focuses on Genesis 12:10-20, discussing Abraham's journey, his decisions, and the faithfulness of God despite human unfaithfulness. The message examines how Abraham's actions in Egypt, driven by fear and self-preservation, contrast with his earlier demonstrations of faith.
The sermon, delivered by James, focuses on the life of Abraham from the Bible. He discusses the concept of God's covenant with Abraham, the promises made to him, and their significance for the world. James elaborates on how Abraham's faith and obedience to God's call made him a blessing to all nations, ultimately leading to the coming of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of faith, obedience, and perseverance in the life of a believer, drawing parallels between Abraham's journey and the Christian journey today.
In the third Advent message Vijay looks at the response of the Wise Men to the birth of Jesus.
In the second of the Advent series, Derek speaks from Matthew 2 looking at King Herod's hostility to the new born Jesus.
Vijay commences the Advent series - The Israelites longed for Jesus but not everyone accepted him
In this sermon by Vijay Pillai, the focus is on biblical greatness, contrasting it with worldly views of power. Using Matthew 20:17-28, Pillai highlights Jesus' teaching that true greatness in God's Kingdom lies in serving and sacrificing for others, as exemplified by Jesus himself. The sermon urges believers to follow this model of selfless service and humility, emulating Christ's example.
In this sermon by Florence McKenzie, the theme of "Undeserved Generosity" is explored through the parable of the vineyard workers from Matthew 20:1-16. Emphasizing that in the Kingdom of Heaven, all who come to faith, regardless of timing, receive God's grace and the gift of eternal life. McKenzie highlights the importance of gratitude over entitlement, and warns against the dangers of assumptions, discontentment, and jealousy in one's faith journey.
In this sermon by David, he explores the theme of true perfection and surrender in Christianity, focusing on the story of the rich young ruler from Matthew 19. David emphasizes that perfection is only attainable through Christ, not through our own efforts to follow the law. He underlines the importance of surrendering worldly attachments to fully commit to Christ, which, though costly, offers greater heavenly rewards. The sermon concludes with the message that we should prioritize what is truly valuable in Christ over worldly possessions.
Cherie Young explores Matthew 19:1-15, focusing on marriage, divorce, singleness, and children. She emphasizes Jesus' high standards for these relationships, contrasting them with the cultural norms of His time. Young highlights the sacredness of marriage, the serious grounds for divorce, and the dignity and value of women and children in Jesus' teachings. She also uplifts singleness as a noble choice and underscores the need for grace and humility in striving to meet these high standards.
In this sermon by James McKenzie, he discusses forgiveness based on Matthew 18:21-35. He starts by sharing the parable of the unforgiving servant, highlighting how God forgives us completely. James then addresses common misconceptions about forgiveness, emphasizing that it doesn't mean excusing, doesn't always lead to reconciliation, and doesn't require forgetting. He encourages us to seek God's grace to forgive others as they have been forgiven.
In this sermon by David Young, he delves into Matthew 18 and explores how Jesus responds to those who wander and sin. He emphasizes the importance of addressing sin within the church community and offers a model for confronting it with love and grace. Discover how Jesus pursues the wanderer and seeks their restoration while learning how we, as believers, can follow his example in dealing with sin among us.
In this sermon, speaker Vijay Pillai discusses the concept of greatness as defined by Jesus and contrasts it with societal notions of prominence and power. He emphasizes the importance of humility and warns against causing others to stumble in their faith. Pillai also highlights the need to deal with sin in our lives and the eternal consequences of failing to do so. Ultimately, he calls for self-examination and a commitment to follow Jesus with humility and a focus on serving others.
In this sermon by Cheri Young, we explore two key moments in Jesus's life. First, he predicts his own death to prepare his disciples for the future. Then, he demonstrates his identity as a king by addressing the issue of taxes. While Jesus has the authority to exempt himself, he chooses not to cause offense and pays the temple tax. This sermon highlights how Jesus, as our king, willingly embraced the human experience, from everyday struggles to ultimate sacrifice, showing empathy and grace to all.
In this sermon by Vijay Pillai, we explore the theme of human helplessness and the need for faith in Christ Jesus. Pillai highlights how we often feel out of control due to various factors in life, such as illness, external forces, and even supernatural influences. He emphasizes that the only answer to human helplessness is faith in Jesus, who has ultimate control over all aspects of life. Through faith in Christ, we can find hope and trust in Him, allowing Him to be in control.
Florence McKenzie's sermon, titled "The Glorious Christ," explores the transfiguration of Jesus on a high mountain. In this sermon, she emphasizes six key questions: what, when, where, who, why, and how. The transfiguration reveals the essential and eternal divine nature of Jesus, strengthening the disciples for the difficult times ahead.
In this sermon, Speaker Vijay Pillai emphasizes the importance of understanding Jesus as the Messiah who suffered, died, and was resurrected, contrary to popular expectations of a triumphant Messiah. He highlights the need for followers to accept suffering and self-denial as part of their discipleship, emphasizing that living for eternity matters more than temporal pursuits. The sermon concludes with a call to follow Jesus faithfully even in the face of difficult choices.
In this sermon by Derek McHardy, he delves into the Gospel of Matthew, emphasizing the revelation and significance of Jesus' identity. Exploring the journey of the disciples' understanding, he likens it to characters in a movie who gradually unveil hidden truths. Derek highlights the multi-layered nature of Matthew's Gospel, reflecting the mature reflection of an eyewitness, and introduces a series on Jesus as the true king. The sermon touches on the recognition of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, and explores potential misconceptions and the importance of submitting to Jesus' authority. Matthew 16v13 - 20
Vijay Pillai discusses the theme of fear, exploring its different aspects and how it affects us. He shares how fear is a natural emotion, but it can be eased through trust in the perfect love of God, as revealed in Christ. Using verses from both the Old and New Testaments, he emphasizes that God's love can calm our fears and invites us to trust in Him, regardless of the circumstances we face. The sermon highlights how perfect love drives out fear and encourages listeners to embrace this truth in their lives.
In this sermon by James McKenzie, he discusses why Jesus matters in three key aspects. Firstly, he emphasizes Jesus' unique identity as both fully God and fully human, highlighting how Jesus' divinity and humanity come together in an extraordinary way. Secondly, McKenzie delves into Jesus' historical significance, explaining that Jesus' death on the cross was a pivotal event that addressed the problem of sin and offered salvation to humanity. Lastly, he looks ahead to the future, discussing Jesus' role as the ultimate judge and the promise of eternal life for believers.
In this sermon by David Young, he explores the doctrine of the Trinity and its significance for understanding the nature of God. He emphasizes that the Trinity is a complex yet essential teaching of the Christian faith. David discusses the challenges of comprehending the Trinity and highlights three mistakes to avoid: trying to fill in the blanks, drawing inadequate comparisons, and defining God in human terms. He breaks down the Trinity into four key points: the Father is God, the Son is God, the Holy Spirit is God, and yet there is one eternal God in three distinct persons. David uses biblical references, including Genesis 1 and Matthew 3, to illustrate the presence of the Trinity in scripture.
Join Florence as she shares a message about running the race of life with purpose and self-control. Drawing inspiration from athletic events and biblical passages in First Corinthians and Hebrews, Florence encourages us to engage in strict training by immersing ourselves in God's Word, to run with the purpose of exalting and pleasing Christ, and to practice self-control in various areas of our lives. Just as athletes strive for gold, Florence urges us to seek the eternal prize of following Christ with dedication and endurance.
In this sermon based on 2 Kings 5:1-19, James McKenzie explores the theme of misconceptions that nearly cost Naaman, a high-ranking Syrian army officer, God's blessing. Naaman learns valuable lessons of humility, obedience, and faith as he seeks healing from his leprosy. Through his encounter with the prophet Elisha, Naaman's heart is transformed, leading him to a place of gratitude, worship, and ultimately, experiencing God's peace.
In this sermon, Vijay Pillai explores Matthew 11:28-12:8, emphasizing the paradox of rest and work in Jesus' invitation. While offering rest to the weary, Jesus also presents a yoke, symbolizing work. The sermon highlights how Jesus is the ultimate temple, surpassing the physical structure, and how his presence redefines obedience to God's commands.
In this episode, David Youngwe explores the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts chapter eight. Philip, guided by the Spirit, encounters the eunuch who is reading from the book of Isaiah. Philip seizes the opportunity to explain the good news about Jesus, leading to the eunuch's belief and baptism. This story highlights the importance of partnering with God, being receptive to His guidance, and embracing opportunities to share the gospel. - Acts 8:26-40
Sheri Young explores the topic of why Christians disagree and how conflicts can be resolved, focusing on relational, task, and values conflicts within the church. Drawing from the bible, she encourages listeners to seek unity, preserve relationships, and approach disagreements with humility, love, and grace.
Solomon’s Story: Youth is meaningless
In this sermon, Vijay concludes the series this on Ecclesiastes, by speaking on the last two chapters. He tells us about the joys of being young and how we are told to enjoy our youth, but not to forget the hard times and to not put pleasure above everything else. We also see the hardships of growing old and what can be seen, without God, as the tragedy of death. Vijay concludes this series by showing how the nihilistic worldview of Ecclesiastes can shake us into realising what gives life meaning, which is God. - Ecclesiastes 11.7-12.14
James finishes Solomon's story about searching for satisfaction. He covers a hodgepodge of seemingly unrelated topics from the section of the book, including the dangers of listening to false wisdom, dead flies in perfume ruining one's reputation, how to deal with an angry boss, government leadership, and the dangers of DIY projects without proper planning. - ECCLESIASTES 9.13-11.6
In this sermon Vijay talks to us about the real value of wisdom but also its limitations. By referencing to the book of Ecclesiastes he explores the highs and lows of searching for wisdom. When wisdom falters there is one who never falters. - Ecclesiastes 7.1-8.1
In this sermon Dave talks about the sensitive topic of death and how the teacher of Ecclesiastes talks about the subject. Life is unpredictable, time and chance happen to all but ‘enjoy life’ ‘all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun’. - Ecclesiastes 9.1-12
In this sermon Florence talks about how God is the author of time and so God is bigger than our time management. Florence gives three ways to think of time in a God centred way; use time wisely, realise there’s a time to die and wait for God’s time. - ECCLESIASTES 3
In this sermon Cheri talks about the meaninglessness of money based on the book of Ecclesiastes. She explains that we should involve God in out money matters and that we shouldn’t worry about chasing after money and things but instead we should enjoy God’s gifts for us. - Ecclesiastes 5.8-6.9
In this sermon Malcom talks about, with reference to the book of Ecclesiastes and advice from the secular world, the meaningless of work. In the end he hopes that when asked what you’re doing at work that you will be able to reply “I serve his majesty, the king of kings, and I’m building a masterpiece, the kingdom of God.” - ECCLESIASTES 2 V 12-26
In this sermon Vijay talks about, with reference to the book of Ecclesiastes, the wonders of community but that we can’t find ultimate meaning in the people around us. We can’t live without people but sometimes we find it difficult to live with people. He talks about the best kind of community which is the community based in faith in God. - Ecclesiastes 4.1-16
In this sermon Vijay talks about, with reference to the book of Ecclesiastes, pleasure and how by chasing after is we can’t find meaning. We can’t find meaning in pleasure without God, it’s not worth building our lives around pleasure. He talks about how true meaning is build on the foundation of God.
David Young explores the theme of the vanity of human wisdom as presented in Ecclesiastes 1:12-18. He delves into the limitations of human knowledge and the pursuit of understanding, highlighting the importance of seeking true wisdom from God. Through his analysis of the passage, he offers valuable insights and practical advice for living a meaningful and purposeful life.
In this sermon on Ecclesiastes 1:1-11, Florence McKenzie explores the theme of the book of Ecclesiastes and how it relates to our lives today. She reminds us that seeking satisfaction in the things of this world, without centering our lives on God, will ultimately lead to disappointment and meaninglessness. Through the lens of Ecclesiastes, she encourages listeners to turn to Jesus Christ as the source of true and lasting satisfaction.
2023 Easter Sunday sermon, Vijay Pillai explores the passage of Luke 11:29-31, where Jesus speaks about the sign of Jonah and compares himself to Solomon. Vijay delves into the deeper meaning behind these comparisons, highlighting how Jesus is greater than even the wisest and most powerful figures in history, and how we can trust in his message and teachings.
Derek McHardy shares insights from the life of King Solomon and his wisdom, we Exsplore how we can apply Solomon's teachings to our daily lives, particularly in the areas of decision-making, relationships, and personal growth. solomons story will inspire and challenge you to pursue a life of wisdom and understanding, grounded in God's Word.
In 1 Kings 10:1-29, Vijay Pillai examines how Solomon's wealth and prosperity, while impressive, ultimately left him feeling empty and unfulfilled. He encourages us to seek true contentment and fulfilment in God rather than material possessions.
Join us in this powerful sermon by James as he delves into the profound significance of 2 Chronicles 5:1-7:22. Exploring the awe-inspiring event of the Ark of the Covenant being brought to the newly constructed temple, James highlights the overwhelming presence of God and the importance of seeking His favor through worship, prayer, obedience, and repentance. Discover the timeless message of God's mercy and forgiveness, and how it relates to our lives today.
Continuing the series Solomon’s Story, Vijay looks 1 Kings 5—6 and considers what we might learn from Solomon’s Work when he builds the Temple. Although the Temple represents an opportunity for Solomon to make God the centre of Israel’s worship, the compromise that he introduces eventually leads to the split of Israel and the exile of Judah. God is pleased more by our obedience than the impressiveness of our work.
Derek talks to us about Solomon's Wisdom, referencing 1 Kings 3:1-28. He encourages us to have a teachable spirit, use the gifts God has given us wisely, seek God's guidance in decision making, and to know God personally. He also shares a personal story of how a young lady's doubts about Christianity were resolved through debate and ultimately accepting Christ as her personal savior
Vijay begins a new series title, ‘Solomon’s Story: Searching for Satisfaction’. He tells us of the events that surrounded Solomon’s ascent to the throne in 1 Kings 1-2. Solomon is shrewd in consolidating power. But his shrewdness for gaining political dominance seems to come at the expense of his commitment to an obedience to the Law of God. It is this background that will inform the reflections on power that we find in the Book of Ecclesiastes.
Cheri talks to us about the importance of discerning influences in our lives and how they can impact our faith. She references 1 Thessalonians 5:12-29 and encourages us to test everything and hold onto what is good. Just as the early church in Thessalonica became a model to all believers, we too can become a model to those around us by spurring each other on towards greater faith, love, and holiness.
Florence talks to us about the importance of being spiritually awake and alert, especially in light of the uncertain times we live in. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Florence urges us to live as children of the light, to put on faith, love, and hope as our spiritual armor, and to encourage one another in our Christian journey. As we run the race of faith, let us keep our eyes fixed on the prize and spur each other on to persevere in the faith.
Malcolm's sermon on 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 emphasizes the comfort Christians can find in the promise of resurrection when facing death. He encourages listeners to take heart in the hope of new life and the reunion of believers when Jesus returns.
Vijay speaks from 1 Thessalonians 4.1-12. He says when we come to faith in Christ, we commit to grow in holiness. Holiness is many things. But here Paul talks about increasingly learning how to use our bodies sexually in a way that lines with the nature of God. It also means how we love each other.
David talks to us about how and what it means to live like the common people of god. From Thessalonians 2:17 - 3:13
Derek McHardy highlights four lessons for spreading the word of Jesus, based on 1 Thessalonians 4:1-10: the importance of teamwork, using our lives as examples, considering our calling, and evangelism.
Vijay Pillai discusses Paul's journey to Europe and evangelism efforts in Greece, including his preaching and conversion of Gentiles in Thessalonica
Vijay Pillai discusses the responses to Jesus' birth on Christmas Day, including the wise men's gifts and Herod and the Pharisees' fear and attempted murder.
Cheri Young discusses Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father in Matthew 1-2 and how he was chosen by Jesus for this role. She highlights his qualities as an ideal father and the lessons we can learn from his example.
Vijay Pillai talks to us about how Mary sings a song of praise, after being told buy an Angel that she is to give birth to the son of God. From Luke 1.46 - 55
Florence McKenzie talks about Joy and the things we can do in life to get more Joy from God. From Romans 5:1- 11
Vijay Pillai talks about how being Obedient to God will bring you closer to him and gain prosperity. From Deuteronomy 8 v1 - 20
Malcolm Webb talks about the 2nd coming and how God has a plan and how we are all part of it. From Mark 10 V32 - 45
David Young talks about how Jesus gets anointed by Mary and what lessons we can learn from it. From John 12:1-8
Cheri Young talks about Jesuses love for us, looking at Mary, Martha and Lazarus. From Luke 10:38 - 42
Cheri Young talks about Jesuses love for us, looking at Mary, Martha and Lazarus. From Luke 10:38 - 42
James McKenzie talks about when Jesus Wept and brought a man back to life. From John 11:35
James McKenzie talks about when Jesus Wept and brought a man back to life. From John 11:35
Florence Continues the series Between the Lines: A courageous Queen from Esther 4:1-5:8
Vijay continues his series on King Asa - this week he discusses dealing with our idols ( 2 Chron 15:1-19)
David describes the importance of Jethro's influence in the life of his son-in-law, Moses
Vijay continues his short series on King Asa - this week he speaks from 2 Chronicles 14-16
To follow Jesus is to find the heart's true rest - Vijay continues the Authentic Discipleship series
Gaining Christ often means sacrificing something we value. Vijay continues the authentic discipleship series.
Vijay starts a new series looking at what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ
Dave follows the 'Minor Prophets' series looking at the interval after the book of Malachi
Malcolm delivers the second-from-last message in the Minor Prophets series as he speaks on Zechariah.
Dave continues the advent series looking at the gift of Frankincense which the wise men brought to the Baby Jesus,
Derek has a message of encouragement - sometimes we don't see the results of our witness at all and sometimes it takes many years
Vijay continues the Hope series by looking at the subject of how Hope helps us deal with Grief
Dave continues the 'Hope' series , this week he talks about how Christians should deal with doubt
There is hope of being completely forgiven and made thoroughly clean; there is hope of release and relief from the weight of guilt; and there is hope of peace of heart and mind once again.
Dan Patterson speaks on Psalm 138 - looking at the connection between our eyes and our mouths when we praise God
Vijay continues his series from Acts 11:19-29 - this week looking at how we should as Christians be willing to step out of our comfort zones for Christ
At this morning's service, Florence speaks from Eph 4.1-16. She reminds us that the People of God are united under their One Lord.
At this morning's service David speaks about who the Church is a people to whom God has revealed the 'mystery' of his purposes.
In this morning's service, Vijay shares from Ephesians 2.1-10. He speaks about who the People of God are as a people who are made alive by God's gracious initiative in Jesus Christ through faith.
Paul prays that the Christians at Ephesus and all true Christians everywhere would have their inner eyes opened by the Holy Spirit to grasp what we already have - HOPE of an INHERITANCE in Christ's eternal kingdom, so that we may experience now the death-defying, enemy-confounding, Christ-exalting POWER of God in the building up of the church, his BODY, bringing it to completion in perfect unity with Christ the HEAD. May God turn over all our pillows so that we will see what we already have as His people – may we be an ENLIGHTENED people to the praise of His glory!
This morning Cheri kicks off a new series on Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. She begins by looking at the Chosen People of God, the Church (Ephesians 1.1-14), redeemed by Christ for the purposes of God.
Vijay concludes the series on Proverbs by emphasising that Wisdom and The Second Person of the Trinity are deeply connected. Christ Jesus was Wisdom Incarnate. Those who cling to Christ cling to the blessedness that Wisdom offers.
Dave continues the Wisdom series by looking at what Proverbs has to teach us about planning. Good planning, he says, seeks to line plans with God's purposes.
James continues the 'Wisdom for the way' series by looking at the issue of wealth and poverty
Not only is wisdom necessary for building healthy friendships, friendship itself can play an important role in helping us pursue wisdom in other areas of our lives.
Vijay continues the series on the Book of Proverbs by looking at why it's wise to be someone others can count on.
Continuing our series on Proverbs, David distinguishes between worldly and godly kindness. He then explains why it is wise to have the latter.
Florence continues the Wisdom for The Way series by looking at the power of words and how we can use them wisely
For the Wisdom for the Way series of sermons, Vijay speaks about why righteousness is such a wise strategy for life.
Dave continues our series on Proverbs by talking about the theme of contentment and what choices we need to make each day to experience God’s peace.
Speaking from Prov 24.30-34, Vijay explains the 'Wisdom Method' as learning to 'see from the heart'.
Continuing his series on the God of second chances Vijay examines the story of the thief on the cross
John Mark Comer our guest preacher from Portland preaches on the importance of eliminatiing hurry from our spiritual lives.
This morning David speaks about the importance of making fellowship a regular habit of faith.
At this morning's service, Vijay looks at the important spiritual discipline of confession
This morning Dave looks at another important spiritual discipline, the habit of service to God and others.
At this morning's service Vijay looks that the spiritual discipline of silence and solitude.
his morning Derek McHardy speaks about the importance of worship as a regular habit of faith.
This morning Vijay looks at another important spiritual habit and practice of the Christian life: fasting. He says that when we fast, we express a yearning for Christ's return and a longing for the world to be made right.
This morning, for the Habits & Practices of Faith Series, Vijay looks at prayer. God always answers prayers that are asked according to his will. He answers them in his wisdom and timing.
Dan Paterson continues his series on habits of the Christian Life - this week he focuses on Christian Mission
This morning Dan Paterson, kicks off our series looking at the habits and practices of the Christian life. He looks at why we share the good news about Jesus with others
This morning Vijay concludes his series, Postcards for Plodders, by looking at the Letter to Laodicea in Rev 3 14-22. The letter reminds us of the the dangers of prosperity to a vibrant faith. The Kid's slot includes the retelling of the the encounter Zacchaeus has with Jesus.
Many of us find it difficult to trust. How, then, can we act on the biblical instruction to trust in the Lord with all our heart? What is the role of our own understanding? And how does knowing God help us to trust? Join Florence as she considers these questions as she looks at Proverbs 3:5-6.
We often feel our weakness as we face difficulties in our Christian journey but God wants to strengthen us. Psalm 84 talks of those who go from strength to strength. How do we access the strength God wants to supply us with so that we're able to face and overcome the difficulties life throws at us?
At this morning service, we conclude the 3rd session of the Big Church Weekend. God transforms those he leads into the wilderness
In the second session of our Big Church Weekend, James looks at how God provides for those he leads into the wilderness. God's provision is sometimes surprising, but always sufficient for the circumstances we are in.
Florence Mackenzie kicks of our Big Church Weekend titled Bloom Where Nothing Grows. She looks at how God sometimes leads his people into the Wilderness. When we find in such a place, she reminds us not to be afraid. She gives several pointers on how we learn to wait, trusting that God will bring our time in the Wilderness to an end.
Derek explains from Psalm 19 that God's glory is revealed in a general way through creation. God reveals himself specially through the Law. God reveals also those thing about us that we need to change. He does all this so that people might see the glory of God.
Vijay looks at the Lord's letter to the Church in Philadelphia (Rev 3:7-13) in his series 'Postcards for Plodders'. The letter reminds us that perseverance is about holding on to Christ when you persecuted for his sake. When suffering remember that you are loved by Jesus, that he preserves you and will reward you. For the kid's slot, David Young looks at the story of Eutyches in the Bible and tells us about the amazing power of God.
Vijay looks at the letter of Christ to the the church in Sardis (Revelation 3.1-6). He reminds us that although routines and rituals are wonderful habits that form us spiritually, the people of God need to guard against 'spiritual sleepwalking'. It is when the believer or church are going through the motions of faith without conviction and a love for Christ.
Continuing his series on the Book of Revelation, Vijay looks at the letter sent to Thyatira (Rev 2.18-29). The insight from the letter he focuses on is that the love the follower of Jesus is called to exercise must be rooted in truth of Scriptures revealed in Jesus. Dave & Cheri conclude their series for children. They remind us that the Book of Acts ends not with a sense of finality, but as if it is the beginning of something bigger. It ends with the invitation to see ourselves and part of what began with the ascension of Christ.
Vijay looks at the letter in the Book of Revelation sent to Pergamum. Jesus calls the church to resist compromise when the pressure might be to dilute Christian teaching and moral truth. Those who persevere will be rewarded with God's provision for their needs, eternal life and an identity that really matters. 6:24 Worship (Elaine Henderson) 18:30 Kid's Talk: The Book of Acts - Call to Forgiveness (Dave & Cheri Young) 25:51 Action Song: Shine (Dave) 29:15 The Lord's Table (Vijay) 39:08 Sermon - The Letter to Pergamum (Vijay) 1:11:17 Worship (Elaine Henderson)
Gillian Mackenzie draws insights to understanding the blessing of friendship from the relationship Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her cousin, Elizabeth. This being Spark Sunday, Dave summarises the story of Daniel and encourages us to be faithful like Daniel. 8:36 Worship (Malcolm Webb) 12:29 Intercessory Prayer (Aileen Johnstone) 19:30 Kid's Slot: Spark Sunday - Daniel in the Lion's Den (Dave Young) 27:11 Kid's Action Song; Only a Prayer Away (Dave Young) 30:46 Sermon: The Blessing of Friendship - Luke 1.5-45 (Gillian Mackenzie) 57:32 Worship (Malcolm Webb
Vijay looks at Revelation 2:8-11, the Letter to Smyrna. Christ reminds us to be prepared to suffer for his sake. He knows what you go through for his sake. Keep your eyes on the eternal prize. During the Kid's slot, Dave looks specifically at Paul's role as a missionary. He invites Dan & Katie Paterson to explain their own work as missionaries in Bulgaria.
Vijay continues his series Postcards for Plodders, looking at Revelation 2.1-7, the letter to the church in Ephesus. The Spirit calls the church to persevere in love and not mistake good deeds, moral outrage or a commitment to Christian truth for love. During the Kid's Slot, Dave and Cheri look at how the early church learned to share the good news of Jesus to the world.
In today's Service, Cheri reminds us that God's design for us to to enjoy the balance of Sabbath rest and worship with work. Sabbath is not idleness but a disciplined acknowledgement that God is in control. During the Kid's Slot looking at the Book of Acts, Dave and Cheri remind us that the Christian response to persecution is to pray and show love for the persecutor.
In our busy, noisy, stressful, information-overloaded lives, it's so easy to become distracted - even from what's really important. In this message from Colossians 2, Florence explores the real possibility that, as Christ-followers, some of life's stuff might actually distract us from him. Tune in to hear what we can do about it!
In today's service, Vijay looks introduces a new series of sermons on perseverance titled 'Postcards for Plodders'. It is based on Revelation 2-3. He says that both suffering and ease can be obstacles that make perseverance necessary to faith. David Young assisted by Cheri and Louise continue to look at events from the Early Church. This morning they look at what happened when the Holy Spirit was given to the believers of the Early Church.
Derek McHardy reminds us that we often fail to recognise Jesus even though he is revealing himself to us. He wants us to speak to him whatever is on our hearts, Christ Jesus was the suffering messiah promised in the Old Testament and he is recognised fully for who he is when we recognise the significance of his death and for our sakes. David Young starts a new series for children looking at what happens after Easter. This morning he looks at the significance of Christ Jesus' ascension as something much more than Jesus going to heaven. But as Jesus ascending to his Kingship over all his creation.
If you've missed our Easter Service this morning, here it is. David concludes his series for children on the wonder and of Jesus' resurrection. Vijay then speaks about how it may feel like we are still living in the Saturday before Easter. But, the message of Easter is that Sunday is on it's way.
The video version of this audio track is available at https://www.aberdeencf.com
On this Palm Sunday, Cheri reminds us that it is important to find meaning in Christ, not only in our mountaintop experiences, but also on the road to Calvary.
Catch up on ACF's Sunday Service (29 March 2020). Christ Jesus is always revealing himself to us. But, are we expecting to see him.
In the second part of Vijay's sermon on Psalm 13, we learn the importance of seeking God's perspective in our suffering. Suffering is an invitation to trust God.
Nobody is immune to suffering. In the first part of his sermon on Psalm 13, Vijay suggests that suffering can make us feel utterly alone: abandoned by God, left to our own counsel and overwhelmed. Suffering teaches us much about the nature of trusting God. He invites us in our suffering to trust him not only when he makes sense to us, but also when his ways do not make sense.
Vijay's sermon from Luke 2:13-14
Sometimes things that can seem wasteful or pointless are precisely aligned with God's kingdom
Dez Johnstone is the Scottish Director of Alpha - he gave an inspiring testimony to our Men's group and invited guests.
How relevant is Christianity in today’s society? Churches are being turned into pubs and hardly anyone goes to church on a Sunday. Is it relevant?
What can I believe? How can I know what’s true? Don’t worry, even Jesus disciples had their doubts - doubting Thomas - but they can be overcome
Does Hell really exist? What is Hell like? Should a loving God not send everyone to Heaven?
What is faith? Is there any evidence for faith? Is there anything or anyone worth putting my faith in?
What is important to me? How should I prioritize my life? God has made you a high priority and desires that you get to know and enjoy Him.
Floods, famine, earthquakes - is God cruel or just not very powerful? Can He be a ‘God of Love’?
Vijay kicks off our 'Tough Questions' series.
Is Jesus liar, lunatic or Lord? What you believe truly matters.(pitched to children-adults)
Every generation struggles with the finality of the grave and we live in an age that does it’s best to deny the aging process and death. Is there hope beyond the grave? Let's take a look at the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in John 11 and the impact of Jesus' stating I am the resurrection and the life.
Every journey needs water, let our journey towards Christ be irrigated by the overflowing of God's love and power.
On the first Sunday of advent Cheri discusses Messianic prophesy in the Old Testament and what it means for all of us to wait on the Lord
Vijay starts a series on how to read the Bible in a way which helps us appreciate it's authority
What does submisison to God look like? - Vijay continues his series on authority preaching from Matthew 7:24-27
What giants are you facing in your life just now? Find out what kind of heart is required to attack a giant and win.
Cheri takes for a walk through Matthew 6:5-15 where Jesus teaches His disciples to pray.
Thanksgiving is one of the leading themes of the Bible, especially the Psalms. An expression that often occurs is "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." In this message, James explores the ideas behind these words.
David talks about Acts 2, where we find Peter’s greatest moment as he preaches to the crowd in Jerusalem.
David discusses how God responds when we are overcome by worldly fears, by looking at the lowest moments of the lives of Elijah and Peter.
Vijay talks on Judges 6:1-16 - Moving from a place of fear and anxiety to faith in God.
aking Acts 1:8 as the main verse for this message, Florence considers what, when, who, where, why and how questions in relation to the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church.
This is Florence's last preach at ACF as she and James prepare to relocate to North England - we'll miss them !
James contrasts the darkness of the crucifixion with the dawn of the resurrection as he surveys Mark chapters 15 and 16. What happened, what was its significance, who were the witnesses and where do we fit into it all?
In Luke 18:1-14 Jesus told two little parables that at first sight don’t really seem to go together. What’s the connection between the two? Are they about prayer or faith or both? Join James as he explores these two intriguing parables and discovers a broken record and a broken heart…
Despite what we might be like on the outside – rich or poor – God knows our hearts. In this message from Luke 16:19-31, Florence looks at Jesus’ story of the rich man and Lazarus. This is not so much a story of riches versus poverty but of responsibility and accountability.
Ever wondered what more we can learn from the parable of the Good Samaritan? In this message, Florence looks at Luke 10:25-37 as she considers God's mercy in Christ towards us and the corresponding challenge of showing mercy to others as we seek to love Him and people to the max.
Forgiveness is something we all find difficult, and yet followers of Jesus who have received God’s forgiveness need to extend it to others. Perhaps we find it so difficult because we misunderstand what forgiveness actually is and what it means to genuinely forgive. Join James as he looks at the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant from Matthew 18:21-35.
Ever wondered what the Kingdom of God is? And what it’s like? To help answer these questions, Florence looks at three different parables – the mustard seed (Luke 13:18-19); the yeast (Luke 13:20-21); and the growing seed (Mark 4:26-29). How will we respond?
In the 3rd talk on the parables Cheri looks at the reasons why Jesus used parables rather than simply telling people who He was.
The first in a series through the parables of Jesus. The parable of the wise and foolish builders Luke 6:46-49. Jesus uses this parable to close His Sermon on the Mount with a powerful statement about the foundations we build our lives upon. Are we building on weak foundations that will fail us when hard times come our way, or are we building on the eternal promises of God?
Ancient creeds of the church say that Jesus was “crucified for us under Pontius Pilate.” Why did this happen and what is its significance? Join James as he continues his series in Mark’s Gospel looking at the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate.
In 2 Kings 5:5-15 we read of the healing of Naaman, captain of the king of Syria's army. In this message, Florence highlights the pride, presumption and prejudice that Naaman had to get beyond before he could experience both physical and spiritual healing.
Who is Jesus? This question comes up every Christmas. But who is better placed to answer the question than Jesus himself? James continues his series in Mark's Gospel by looking at Jesus' trial before the high priest. Jesus is put on oath and asked by the high priest if he is the Christ, the Son of God. His answer leaves us in absolutely no doubt about who he is...
Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss. The basest form of treachery. But why did he do it? And what about the other disciples? How did they behave when the mob arrived to arrest Jesus? Join James this week as he continues his series in Mark’s Gospel, presenting “The Judas Kiss”
As our Portlethen plant enters its 3rd week Vijay starts a series on what makes a church
In 2 Kings 5:1-4 we read about a young slave girl who flourished in circumstances not of her choosing. In the first of a three-part series, Florence considers seven characteristics shown by this girl, many of which could be helpful to us if we take them on board.
Gethsemane. A place of profound significance to Christians. In Gethsemane a mystery unfolded as the Son of God struggled with the will of God. What did Jesus anticipate that filled him with such dread? What were the dark forces that assaulted him? Join James as he continues his series in Mark’s Gospel by paying a visit to a place called Gethsemane.
As Jesus and his disciples met up for the last Passover celebration, the disciples were in for a surprise and a shock. A surprise when Jesus made it clear that He was the fulfilment of the Passover and the Passover morphed into Christian Communion. A shock when Jesus revealed that there was a traitor in their midst. Who could it be? Join James as he continues his series in Mark’s Gospel, this time looking at Mark 14:12-26.
A remarkable incident took place two days before Jesus' death when he was anointed with very expensive ointment by Mary, a disciple who showed her extravagant devotion to him by this act. But what of the others present? How did they react? What were their motives? What was the sequel? Join James as he "dissects" Mark 14:1-11.
Florence concludes looking at Jesus' statement in John 10:10 that He has come so we may have life in abundance. She suggests three things that can stimulate our experience of living life to the full - getting to know God, being filled with His Spirit, and developing an eternal perspective.
Florence looks at Jesus' statement in John 10:10 that He has come so we may have life in abundance. In part one of this two-part series, she considers three things that can stifle our experience of living life to the full - faulty thinking, unconfessed sin, and misplaced priorities.
James continues his series in Mark's Gospel looking at the incredible teaching Jesus gave about future events in chapter 13. But Jesus doesn't give a clear timetable of events leading up to his glorious return at the end of history. Why? Just so that we are prepared for his return, whenever it is!
Is worry choking your faith? In this message Florence considers Jesus' teaching on worry in Matthew 6 and offers some practical suggestions for dealing with this issue.
When Jesus was confronted by a number of different people, some of whom were trying to trip him up and undermine his credibility, he used the opportunity to expose the true motives of his questioners. The challenge that comes to us is this: are we the real deal or are we religious hypocrites? Join James as he continues with his series on Mark’s Gospel, looking at chapter 12.
What difference did Palm Sunday and the Cross make to the first Christians of the Roman Empire… and what difference does it make for us today?
James continues his series in Mark’s Gospel by looking at the events Palm Sunday as recorded in Mark chapter 11. Jesus rode into Jerusalem and was hailed as the Messiah. But what kind of Messiah was he? What do the events of Palm Sunday tell us about his identity and what are the implications for us?
In this message Florence refers to the account of Abraham and Sarah’s 25 year wait until the birth of their son, Isaac, and suggests five ways of responding to the question, “How can I grow more like Jesus when I’m in a waiting situation?”
“Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King...” So said Mr Beaver about Aslan in C S Lewis’s famous story “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” These three descriptions apply not just to Aslan, but to Jesus Christ the Son of God, as James explains in this message from chapters 9 and 10 of Mark’s gospel.
Florence concludes her series in Psalm 91 by looking at various promises in verses 14-16.
Jesus had a habit of asking searching questions, and in this message James looks at four of these contained in Mark chapter 8.
We live in a volatile world marked by instability and uncertainty. However, in this message, Florence identifies five certainties from Psalm 91:3-6 that apply to those who make their home in God's presence.
Despite the uncertain and often dreadful circumstances of life, safety and security are to be found by those who reside and abide in the presence of God. This is the theme of Psalm 91 and, in this audio, Florence focuses on verses 1 and 2.
Opinions. We all have them. In Jesus’ day there were plenty of different opinions about Him. In this message James looks at four of these opinions found in chapters 6 and 7 of Mark’s Gospel.
Everyone needs encouragement and the Bible directs us to "encourage one another". In this message, Florence unpacks 1 Thessalonians 5:11 by offering practical suggestions on how we can give and receive real encouragement.
In this message Florence looks at 1 Thessalonians 4 and 5, and identifies several areas where the apostle Paul encourages and urges his readers to action and greater spiritual growth.
People were constantly making requests of Jesus – for help, for healing, for direction. In chapter five of his Gospel, St Mark records some dramatic events and during these four requests were made to Jesus. How did He respond? What do we learn from His responses which will help us in the situations we face?
Patience is something that doesn't come naturally to most of us. In this message, Florence discovers that patience has the best chance of flourishing when times are tough; patience is directly linked to our view of God; and patience involves action.
In Genesis 28:10-22 we read of a dream that the young runaway Jacob had. In this message, Florence unpacks the significance of Jacob's dream and demonstrates its relevance to us by answering three questions: What did he see? What did he hear? What did he do?
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is Lord of all. This was clearly demonstrated when He calmed a raging storm by simply speaking a command to it. Find out how Jesus is Lord of all from Mark 4:35-41.
In 1 Kings 19:7-13, Elijah realises that God is not limited to working on a grand scale. He has discovered that God also speaks quietly, personally and insistently. But how do we recognise the voice of God? This is one of the questions Florence considers in this message.
Eight days after Easter, one of the disciples, Thomas, had an encounter with the risen Christ which completely changed him from his state of disbelief into one of praise and submission to Jesus Christ as his Lord and God. Join James this week as he looks at the life-changing experience of the disciple who is sometimes known as “Doubting Thomas.”
Florence looks at part of 1 Kings 19 which describes the despondent state of the prophet Elijah. Why was he running on empty? How did God respond?
God's grace is truly amazing. This is clearly seen in the opening verses of 1 Corinthians which James looks at in this message.
Joseph of Nazareth plays a crucial role in the Christmas story as the husband of Mary and legal father of Jesus. But who was this man? What was his relationship to Mary? How does the Bible describe him? Florence takes these questions as the basis of her message on this forgotten hero of Christmas.
With the background of Peter’s spectacular failure as a disciple we might have expected that he would set the bar for Christian discipleship really low. The reality however is quite the opposite – we are to be holy as God is holy! How are we ever going to come anywhere near clearing that bar? In the second part of a two-part message on 1 Peter 1:13 to 2:3 James concentrates on Peter’s teaching which helps us recognise why we are to be holy and how we are to achieve this.
Living as followers of Jesus Christ is often compared to running a race - not a quick sprint but a long, arduous marathon. How can we run in such a way as to get the prize? In this stand-alone message from 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Florence suggests three things: engage in strict training; run with purpose; and be self-controlled.
With the background of Peter’s spectacular failure as a disciple, we might have expected that he would set the bar for Christian discipleship really low. The reality however is quite the opposite – we are to be holy as God is holy! How are we ever going to come anywhere near clearing this bar? In the first part of a two-part message on 1 Peter 1:13 to 2:3, James looks at what it means for us to be holy, in other words to be like our Heavenly Father.
The concept of ‘faith’ is often ridiculed by non-Christians and misunderstood by Christians. Faith is the response of trust to the biblical God who wants to be known and loved. Download the sermon notes
Every language has a word for evil. It is pervades and invades every aspect of creation. In the biblical view, evil is essentially the evidence of a disordered universe. God has designed the universe to function in a certain way. When you follow the design plan, you flourish. When you disregard it, you wither. Evil is the consequence of disregarding the design plan. Evil is a universe in disorder.
Susan Wilson, founder of the Tumaini charity, joined us to share inspirational stories of God's work in Tanzania.
The central truth that helps us understand God's design plan is that the biblical God is Creator and humans (and all the universe with them), creation. Sin, in essence, is a disregard for these basic truths. When viewed in this way, Sin expresses itself in two ways: pride, where I take the place of God and/or self-contempt, where I undervalue the goodness with which God has made me and the rest of creation.
God has created the universe in line with his own character and nature. God's creation flourishes when it functions according to his design plan. This principle is applied to the moral design of the universe. We ultimately learn what the moral design of creation, what is right or wrong, good or evil as we are rooted in relationship with the Creator God of the Bible.
God has created this universe and designed it to function in line with his own moral nature. He has designed us humans to freely know him, love him, be loved by him and enjoy him forever. We flourish when we choose to follow the design plan and wither when we neglect it.
Florence concludes her three-part series on love by offering practical suggestions on how we can follow through on Jesus' teaching about loving our neighbour, loving each other other and loving our enemies.
In the second part of her mini-series on love, Florence unpacks what it means for us to love God with all our heart, soul and strength as a response to the amazing love of God towards us.
In the first of a three-part series on love, Florence focuses on two New Testament passages which highlight different aspects of God's amazing love for us.
Peter failed spectacularly as a follower of Jesus at a time when Jesus needed him the most. But failure doesn't have to be final. Jesus had much work for Peter to do in the future, but first Peter had to be fully restored to discipleship. Join James and find out how this process worked out one day by the Sea of Galilee.
Peter failed spectacularly as a follower of Jesus at a time when Jesus needed him the most. But failure doesn't have to be final. It wasn't for Peter and it doesn't have to be for us either. Join James this week as he explores the process which leads to Peter's failureand how the road to recovery begins.
When confronted with a variety of options, we often find ourselves asking questions. Is this really the direction in which I should go? Is this actually the route God wants me to take? How do I even begin to find out what specific plans God might have for me? If you've ever asked questions like these, you might discover some helpful answers in this week's audio.
Ever wondered what kind of worshippers God is looking for? Jesus gives us insight into this question during his conversation with a Samaritan woman when he draws her attention to the priority of worshipping in spirit and truth.
Jesus told parables so that we could easily understand spiritual truth – right? Wrong! He told parables to reveal truth to those who believe and conceal it from those who don’t. That’s what makes the “Parable of the sower” either the easiest or most difficult parable to figure out. Are you ready to join James this week and have a go?
Vijay concludes the month of celebration with the final talk in his series on how we should respond to God's gifts.
As Florence concludes her three-part series on the Old Testament book of Micah, she focuses on three questions from chapters 6 and 7:
- What does the Lord require of you?
- Where is the Lord your God?
- Who is a God like you?
Tune in to discover the answers!
In the second of a three-part series on the Old Testament book of Micah, Florence highlights three promises that God makes in chapters 3-5. What happens when God promises to send judgement, to launch a new community and to provide a deliverer? Tune in to find out!
The Old Testament book of Micah was written in the 8th century before the birth of Christ but its message is as relevant to us today as it was to Micah's original hearers. In the first of a three-part series, Florence unpacks chapters 1 and 2 where God exposes and judges the sins of His unfaithful people but extends mercy to His faithful people.
The loyalties of the believer are often pulled in all directions. The Lord calls us to be devoted to him with an undivided heart. His assurance is that when we make him our priority we gain not only him but also our life. His warning is that that if we make something other than God our priority, we risk losing him and everything else. As Augustine reminded the church, if Christ is not valued above all, he is not valued at all.
The Church is the family of God into which we are born when we come to faith in Christ. Ultimately it is impossible to come to full maturity as a Christian without participation in the Church. This is because Jesus is always followed in the company of other believers. Isolating ourselves from the people of God is not just difficult, but it in fact is dangerous to our spiritual life. For all its weaknesses, the Church is still the main means through which God tells the world of his love for them.
The biblical idea of of hope refers to a true and confident expectation we have in God that no matter what situation we walk into, with Christ Jesus we have all we need to rise and meet its demands; and because of Christ Jesus that we can confidently expect that the ultimate outcome will be good. Such hope is difficult to exercise. But it can be cultivated. It emerges as a consequence of a character forged through patient perseverance through inconvenience and even suffering.
Something of the surprise of the Christmas message is lost with the yearly repetition of this wonderful account. The events of Christmas viewed through the eyes of Joseph give us an opportunity to see the Christmas account for how remarkable it really was. Joseph's first surprise is the shocking news of his fiance Mary's pregnancy. The next surprise is even more amazing when an angelic visitor turns up in a dream. But, the message the angel leaves Joseph is still more incredible; that Mary is still a virgin and the child in her womb is placed there by God, the Holy Spirit. If that were not enough, the angel continues with the astonishing word that this child will offer the world deliverance from the grip of evil. But, all these surprises pale in comparison to the greatest one of them all. The child is in fact God in human flesh. When we rediscover the matchless person of Jesus in this timeless account, we open ourselves again to his impact on our lives and the world.
In this message Florence looks at the second part of the Lord's Prayer which focuses on God's provision, pardon, and protection. Our response has to be one of praise!
We don't always know what to pray. Jesus' disciples had the same problem so He taught them what is traditionally known as the Lord's Prayer. In the first of a two-part series, Florence unpacks the first half of this prayer with its focus on God's name, kingdom and will. Why not allow this model prayer to shape your own prayers?
David talks about Jesus's call to receive the kingdom of God like a little child and what that might mean for us today.
It’s not possible to be neutral about Jesus Christ. When we are confronted with him we are forced to make a decision either for or against him. In chapter 3 of Mark’s Gospel Jesus is very clearly declared and revealed to be the Son of God. How did the people respond? Well, amazingly, three groups rejected him in different ways and only one group became his disciples. Join James this week as he looks at this very challenging part of the Bible but be warned - you’ll have to make a decision!
Of the many insights learned from the life of Joseph, one that stands out is that in all circumstances, God works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8.28). Events from Joseph's life teach us that God takes our unremarkable moments, our victories and our tragedies and brings about good for those who trust him.
In this last of a 3-part series that traces the storyline of the Bible, we see how the Old Testament concludes by anticipating a figure who will do what Israel could not do, mediate blessing to the whole earth. This person, the New Testament tells us is the person of Jesus Christ, who through his suffering and death becomes the agent of God's blessing throughout the earth. His followers are then commissioned to continue what he has started, empowered by God. The ultimate design of creation will, one day, be fulfilled when creation will be blessed under Christ.
Vijay continues his Bible survey tracing the grand theme of blessing throughout the Bible. When God created humans, he created them to be fruitful and to multiply, that they be blessed and be a blessing. But, the earliest accounts in the Bible show that humans are 'fruitful', that they do 'multiply', but in evil not in righteousness. In today's sermon, Vijay traces the story starting from Abraham to the end of the OT. In Abraham, God promises to bless Abraham and make him a blessing to all the families of the earth. From Abraham emerges a nation, Israel, that is created by God for one purpose, to make God known to the ends of the earth and by doing so blessing all creation. He concludes with a challenge to remind followers of Christ to bless others even as we have been blessed by God.
What did Jesus accomplish on the cross? Taking the letters of the word C-R-O-S-S, Florence identifies five things that help answer this question. Tune in to find out what these are...
Vijay starts a short series that traces the storyline of the Bible as God's commitment to bless creation. In this first sermon he looks at the story beginning from creation to the account at Babel. When God creates humans, he blesses them with the capacity to flourish, enjoy God's creation and enjoy healthy relationship with others. This capacity for blessedness is ultimately rooted in a right relationship with God. But not only are humans to enjoy such blessing, they are also to be instruments of it as they enrich others. The story from the Fall to the Tower of Babel is that humans fail to both enjoy such blessing and to pass it on to others. What will God do ensure that his intention will indeed come to pass? That will be the subject of the next sermon.
In the final message in the series on Noah, James reminds us of God’s faithfulness, looks into the future to see what lies ahead for planet earth and highlights what we can learn from the life of Noah.
Noah, his family and all the animals were delivered from the flood inside the ark. One year and ten days later God delivered them from the confinement of the ark and into a whole new world. Noah’s first response? Worship, the priority of the life of faith. Join James for this, the third in the series on Noah, to find out more.
God gave Noah the incredible task of building an ark. 120 years later, the ark was finished. God told Noah to enter, because in seven days the flood would come. Seven days – one last chance for the people of Noah’s time to be saved. Would they take it? Tune in to this, the second message in James’s series on Noah, to find out.
In this, the first in a four-part series on Noah, follow James into Noah’s world, a world which was in some ways different to ours, but in other ways very similar. Society was in chaos and God was about to step in and do something about it. What God did and how he did it show clearly why the cross was necessary.
Patience and prayer. We need both. But what does patience look like? What is prayer that works? Florence addresses these important questions as she concludes her series from the New Testament book of James.
Florence looks at James 4 and, in the first half of this chapter, highlights eight answers to pride. But pride has a friend - presumption. How do we make plans for the future without falling into the presumption trap?
Do you ever have a problem with words? Can you tell the difference between earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom? In this message from James chapter 3, Florence offers some practical pointers that you might find useful in controlling what you say and then goes on to explain what heavenly wisdom looks like.
In the second part of her series from the New Testament book of James, Florence focuses on chapter 2 and considers the importance of loving our neighbour (2:1-13) and living our faith(2:14-26).
In the first of a five-part series on the New Testament book of James, Florence considers how we can respond rightly to difficulties in our lives and stresses the importance of listening to the word, looking into the word, and living out the word of God.
The Apostle Paul's first letter to the church in Thessalonica is full of encouragement and urges us to live in hope of the return of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. In this message, Florence highlights five reasons for hope, one from each chapter of 1 Thessalonians. Are you living in hope?
Palm Sunday was a paradox. A time of rejoicing for the people but a time of weeping for Jesus. Why was that? Could it be that Jesus could see beyond the adulation of Palm Sunday to the rejection of Good Friday and beyond? Join James as he unpacks Luke’s account of this remarkable day.
Florence concludes her series on the fruit of the Spirit by considering the spiritual fruit of self-control. She stresses the importance of partnership between the Spirit and ourselves, defines what is meant by self-control, and suggests areas in our lives where we might need to exercise it.
This was the mother of all battles. The devil against Jesus Christ the Son of God. Jesus won hands down, but not by using His divine power. In His humanity He defeated the devil using the weapons we have available to us: prayer, the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, the Bible. And because He defeated the devil, so can we.
Florence continues her series on the fruit of the Spirit by considering the spiritual fruit of gentleness which can be viewed as a sensitive regard for other people and is an offshoot of a life that is lived in humility towards God. Taking Jesus as the prime example of humility and gentleness, she suggests ways in which this spiritual fruit can be demonstrated and suggests various hindrances to showing gentleness to others.
Vijay continues his series on Psalms, speaking today on 'How to deal with false accusation'.
Guidance. We all need it. In this message, which focuses on Psalm 43 and John 21, James explains how God gives us guidance for our life’s journey. This guidance comes through the Bible and also comes through God’s Son, Jesus Christ, who leads us through all of the circumstances of life. But are we following Him?
Florence peels away some of the packaging that surrounds our understanding of Christmas and reveals the humanity, helplessness and humility of Jesus Christ as he lay in the manger, wrapped in cloths. She links the crib to the cross where Jesus accomplished His purpose in coming into our world.
What were the main characteristics of the early church and what can we learn from them? James concludes this short series on the Day of Pentecost by highlighting 10 transferable principles which make for healthy churches and healthy Christians.
Florence continues her series on the fruit of the Spirit and, in this message, looks at faithfulness. She considers God's faithfulness, biblical examples of faithfulness, and relational faithfulness where she suggests ways in which we can demonstrate the fruit of faithfulness in our relationship with God and with people.
James continues looking at the significance of the Day of Pentecost. On this occasion, the key which helps unlock our understanding of Pentecost is the first proclamation of the Christian Gospel by the Apostle Peter. Peter preached Jesus Christ, crucified, risen, exalted, and the complete and only Saviour of sinners - and 3000 people became Christians!
Vijay begins a 2-part series on the importance of financial generosity to our discipleship. In this sermon he notes the great model of generosity the Macedonian churches provide for us. Their example teaches us that ultimately the radical generosity God calls us to is only possible when we are enabled by God. Such generosity is not dependent on the size of our bank balance but the size of our God. When we exercise such radical generosity, we not only bless others but find ourselves blessed and enriched for giving. It is by surrendering ourselves completely to God that we tap into the strength of God that enables financial generosity.
A spiritual fruit listed in Galatians 5:22 is goodness and it grows out of a life that is in tune with a good God and under the control of His Spirit. In this message, Florence identifies ways in which God is good and suggests how we, as followers of Jesus Christ, can demonstrate the spiritual fruit of goodness to those around us.
James continues looking at the significance of the Day of Pentecost. In this message, the key which helps unlock our understanding of Pentecost is an ancient prophecy by Joel. The coming of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost fulfilled that prophecy. It also shows us God's vision for the church and for the future. We are invited to be part of what God is doing in building his church.
Florence continues her series on the fruit of the Spirit and focuses today on the spiritual fruit of kindness. She looks at how God displays kindness towards sinful humanity; how He desires kindness to be shown by His children; and how He develops kindness in us when we cooperate with the work of the Spirit in our lives.
Allan Jack kindly delivered one of our summer sermon series . Allan is a long time friend of ACF and always brings a challenging message.
The kind of love that God asks of us is formed in us as we obey his commandments. The basis of this obedience is faith, that is, to know Christ as the Son of God. But, how does a person come to know God? The knowledge of God is a gift of God. God not only reveals himself through the events of the life of Jesus, but also enables us to recognise him through the Holy Spirit in us. So, faith is the gift of God. Those who believe Christ have eternal life, a life that is not only unending, but also a life that is the best sort of life available to us now.
In this message James looks at one of the most amazing events in history - the day of Pentecost. This is the day on which the church, God's new and exclusively inclusive community, was born and, in the power of the Holy Spirit, turned the world upside-down!
Everyone sees what their belief system allows them to see. Faith, in this sense, is knowledge. When we look at Christ through faith, we see the love of God for us. Those who come to know and experience this love personally reveal that relationship with Christ through their boldness of love for those around them. In this way those who know Christ can't help imitiating the one they love.
Who we understand Christ Jesus to be impacts our conduct. To love right, we need to know Jesus right. And it is here that John sheds light on one of the many roles of the 3rd person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit enables us to understand the truth of the incredible condescension and humility of the Son of God in becoming Jesus Christ of Nazareth. When we appreciate the enormous sacrifice of God in Jesus Christ, we begin to appreciate the enormous sacrifice called upon God's people to love and commit ourselves to bring about life in others.
The love believers are called to exercise is the one modeled in the love shown in Jesus Christ. Jesus shows that love involves two things: the sacrifice of the one who loves and the offer of life in the one who is loved. Hate, as modeled in Cain, is the exact opposite: he kills a brother to advance himself. When believers exercise such love they gain a clear conscience and confidence before God.
Through Christ Jesus, God shows His love for us by making us children of God. Children bear a close resemblance to those in their family. If both the Father and Christ Jesus are marked by love and a hatred for sin (i.e., everything that is opposite of love), children of God also evidence these family features.
John has instructed the believer to evidence belief in the God of light by expressing love particularly to fellow believers. But, what does it mean to have a common faith with fellow believers? John says that it is to believe that Jesus, the Messiah was fully God and fully human. John warns against 'antichrists' or false teachers who would pervert this truth. The believer is able to guard against these 'antichrists' by assessing whatever new teaching they might learn against the faith they have already inherited from those who saw Jesus and heard from him firsthand, the eyewitnesses. They are also to remain in fellowship with those who share the common faith and to continue in righteous conduct.
The one who trusts in the death of Jesus Christ, is able to commune with the God of light. But, this is not an excuse to live in ways that contradict the God of light. God calls the believer to live in the light. What this means is to live a life motivated by the love of God. This love is firstly evident in the way a believer treats other believers. We increasingly learn to live in love as we recognise that the evil one is overcome, that we are stronger in God that we think we are, as we immerse ourselves in the Word of God and as we guard against the values of the world.
In this stand-alone message from 1 Thessalonians, Florence looks at how the apostle Paul gave and received encouragement. She also suggests six ways in which we can encourage ourselves during times of difficulty.
At this morning's Baptism Service, Vijay looks at the message of the cross. The idea that the God and creator of this universe should die a degrading death on a cross appears foolish from a human perspective. But, human perspectives are limited and aren't adequate to know and perceive God. If God were really disclosing himself in the death of Jesus on the cross, we would learn not that humans are completely adequate in themselves, but dependent on God. The testimony and baptism of Callum Duncan follows the sermon.
The end of Easter was 40 days after Jesus’ resurrection, on Ascension Day. During those 40 days, Jesus proved beyond any doubt that he was alive and taught his disciples. The he returned to heaven, the promised Holy Spirit came, and a few men from Galilee changed the world. In this, the first message in a series from Acts, James looks at the events of Ascension Day and their significance, not just for the apostles, but for us.
Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to the acclaim of a vast crowd. However by Good Friday many of the same crowd were calling for his crucifixion. In this message James looks at what we learn about Jesus as the events of Palm Sunday gradually morph into those of Good Friday.
The comprehensive ministry of Christ (his forgiveness, his defense and sacrifice on our behalf) successfully brings the most wayward of sinners into communion with the God of light. There is no darkness that the work of Christ cannot overcome in those who are truly repentant. This can give the wrong impression that it doesn't matter how a believers live their life - after all, Christ's sacrifice covers all and any sin one might commit. John reminds us that salvation in Christ is not a free license to sin. Those who claim to personally know God will obey his commandments, imitating Christ. This, in turn, gives believers the assurance that they do indeed truly fellowship with God.
If God is light (that is, perfect truth and moral purity) and those fellowship with him must walk in light (that is, walk in the truth and purity) what chance does humanity have to fellowship with God? John states that through Jesus, our confessor, advocate and sacrifice all humanity have the opportunity to fellowship with God. Through faith in him, sinners fellowship with God.
One way of communicating the central message revealed in Jesus is that God is light. Through this statement John hopes to state that God is perfect Truth and perfect goodness. This has implications for humans who want to receive the life that comes from being in relationship with the God who is light. Just as light excludes darkness, the truth of God excludes any falsehood and the goodness of God excludes moral impurity. How then can anyone enjoy life that comes in communion with God? The answer John gives in this letter is: the death of Jesus Christ.
Florence continues her series on the fruit of the Spirit and considers the spiritual fruit of peace in three dimensions: the upward dimension - peace with God; the inward dimension - peace of God; and the outward dimension - peace towards people.
Beginning a new series on 1 John titled Back to Basics, Vijay looks at 1 Jn 1.1-4. He explains that there is more going on in our faith than we think. The message of Jesus is more than knowing the details of Jesus' life, death and resurrection. It is about coming to know God intimately through Jesus. The messenger of this glorious message is more than an instrument of communication. He is part of the message of Jesus that he communicates. The proclamation of the message is much more than a simple passing on of information. It is an opportunity for the one who comes in contact with the message to literally encounter God through Jesus.
God’s grace is amazing! When we look at it from a different perspective we can often see new dimensions of grace. In this message, James looks at grace from the perspective of Revelation chapter 1.
Our desire for community points to a deeper desire for communion with God. Vijay uses Philippians 3:12-16 to illustrate his sermon from 13th January
. It’s amazing! But what is it and why is it amazing? In this one-off message for the New Year, James examines some of the characteristics of grace explained in 1 Peter 5:10.
Florence continues her series on the fruit of the Spirit, focusing on joy. She distinguishes between joy and happiness, showing that we can have joy because of our relationship with God through Jesus Christ; we can rejoice even when we face trials; and we can joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. She also highlights six joy-stealers that we need to be on guard against.
In this sermon that concludes the series on Gideon (Living a Life that Matters), Vijay explains how a lukewarm commitment to Christ can sometimes be more dangerous than a heart that is closed to the Lord. He reminds us how a commitment to God has to be much more than saying the right things about God. Our deepest commitment is expressed in expressed in how we live, in our actions. He then concludes with a sober challenge that a divided heart leaves a divided legacy. Our hypocrisies are often played out on those we influence and impact, those we love.
We all need good examples. The Apostle Andrew is a good example for us to follow. In this message James looks at incidents from Andrew’s life which encourage us as we seek to live as Christians.
This sermon, part of the series on A Life that Matters, turns to Judges 7.23-8.21. Success can be as much an obstacle to living a life that truly matters as can defeat. In this sermon, Vijay notes that it is often easy to confuse success with a life that really matters. Success can distract us from the larger perspective. Such a loss of perspective leads to a reversal of any advantage gained by success. But, even worse, success can cause us to lose sight of God.
Vijay continues his series on Gideon, A Life that Matters. In this sermon based on Judges 6.9-7.22, he turns to the subject of confidence. Confidence he suggests is a balance between the extreme poles of fear and arrogance. On the one hand, we don't have to be crippled by our concerns that we aren't adequate to face life. On the other hand, we don't have to maintain the illusion that we have all that it takes to face life. Confidence is a place of balance, where we worshipfully trust God to work through our abilities with his sufficiency.
Life's greatest quest and highest achievement is getting to know God. In this message James explores Psalm 19 which in many ways is a roadmap to the knowledge of God. The journey begins with the general proclamation the universe makes about God and ends with a personal knowledge of God as our Redeemer.
Florence begins a new series on the fruit of the Spirit and in this first message she sets the scene by considering who the Spirit is; what the fruit of the Spirit is; and how we can be fruitful.
In this message, James looks at some essential elements of the Bible’s teaching on heaven as they’re detailed in the prayer of Jesus recorded in John 17:24.
In the 5th talk from the Alpha series David looks at how we should approach the 'handbook' for our faith, the Bible
Continuing the series on Gideon, Vijay looks at Judges 6.33-7.8. The passage gives us the account where Gideon tests the Lord by putting out the fleece. It also records the incident where the Lord sifts Gideon's troops from and army 32,000 soldiers to that of 300. When Gideon tests the Lord, he does so because he has a distorted view of himself. He underestimates himself. When the Lord sifts down the soldiers, the Lord reminds Gideon that he is in danger of overestimating himself. Ultimately, we are useful to the Lord, not because we have or do not have assets and gifts, but because the Lord is with us. We are completely freed from the temptation to think that our talents or resources are what help us live satisfied and complete lives. It is the presence of the Lord that allows us to live lives that matter.
Have you ever wondered if God really cares about you? In this message, James looks at Psalm 77, in which the writer struggles with the idea that God no longer seems to care about his people. However, as he chooses to believe biblical truth, he experiences a remarkable change in the way he views his circumstances.
In this message, drawn from 1 Corinthians 15:51-58, Florence looks at the reality of the final resurrection of the dead and what effect this should have on our day-to-day living.
Vijay continues his study in the life of Gideon
We surrender our lives on all kinds of altars to all kinds of false gods. To really live a life that matters we must break our false altars and focus on surrendering to the one true God
Vijay begins a new series of sermons, based on the life of Gideon, titled 'Living a Life that Matters'. He looks, this morning, at the call and commission of Gideon. Like the Israelites living in Gideon's time, we live in caves of fear or complacence, unwilling to step out into the extraordinary lives God wants for us. To begin living a life that truly matters we have to dare and step out of our caves by crying out to the Lord. He intervenes by offering us his presence and perspective, before he commissions us. Our adequacy for a life that truly matters comes not because we miraculously become more talented or resourceful, but because of the Lord who commissions us into action.
How often do we say "it isn't fair"? In this message James looks at Psalm 73 in which the writer, Asaph, struggles with the unfairness of life. He found himself envying people who don't care about God because they seem to have an easy life. But he got things in their proper perspective when he realised that it's where we're going AFTER this life that really counts
We're pleased to welcome Allan Jack who gives an inspiring talk accompanied by a fantastic section from an Alpha talk by an ex-offender who's life was transformed by Jesus
Most of us hate delays and would much prefer that everything happened according to our timetable. This is particularly true when we don't receive an immediate answer to our prayers. But, sometimes, God chooses to delay His response to our situation in order to strengthen our belief in Him and bring glory to His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. This was a lesson that two grieving sisters took on board when Jesus raised their brother Lazarus from the dead.
When we are suffering, one of the questions we often ask is “How long?” In this, the second message in the series “Close to the edge,” James explores this problem from Psalm 13.
Making comments is part and parcel of everyday life. In Mark 5, we encounter five distinct comments in the account of Jesus raising a young girl from the dead. This message explores the practical implications of each of these comments, both for the people to whom they were originally addressed and also for us today
This is the first message of a new series in which James explores the conflict between our beliefs about God and our life experiences. Psalm 10 considers the question "Why?" which we most often ask when life is tough.
Continuing his series on wisdom in the Book of Proverbs, Vijay looks at the subject of frienship. He notes that the wise take the effort to both aquire and to be good friends. This is because our friends influence our personality for good or evil. How does one spot a a person who is likely to make a good friend? One way to do so is to observe a person's speech.
Vijay notes from the Book of Proverbs that the wise are kind. Biblical kindness is doing good to others irrespective of who they are, how they act or how they respond to us. In our kindness, we imitate God.
Visiting speaker Douglas Hutcheon delivers today's message at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship.
The Book of Proverbs reminds us that decision making requires exceptional skill and wisdom. Vijay explains that godliness is the moral framework out of which wise decison are made. When making decisions beware of deception both from without and within. Weigh the options and then execute decisions in the knowledge that ultimately God is sovereign over every outcome.
Vijay explores the Book of Proverbs for the wisdom of contentment. True contentment is the result of aligning yourself with those things God thinks are important and is expressed in a life of moderation. Some symptoms of contentment identified in Proverbs are generosity, humility and thankfulness. The content person is at ease with themselves and the world in which they find themselves.
In the next sermon of the series, titled Living Skillfully, Vijay looks at the foundation of wisdom. From Proverbs 1.7 we learn that the awe and reverence of the Lord is the foundation of a life that is lived skillfully. The Book of Proverbs calls such awe 'the fear of the Lord'. The fear of the Lord allows a person to know reality for what it truly is. It is also the basis for right conduct.
Vijay begins a new series of sermons, titled Living Skillfully, on the Book of Proverbs. He states that the biblical idea of wisdom has to do with the art of living skillfully. The Bible states that there are 2 path options open to every human being, the paths of wisdom and folly. The Book of Proverbs teaches us to tread the path of wisdom by being receptive to knowledge, by virtuous conduct and reverence for God. He looks particularly at how learning to interpret the proverbs correctly is part of the way wisdom and discretion is formed in us.
In the final message of this series James explores the experience of Peter. His dramatic encounter with the risen Christ dealt with his past failure, restored him to ministry, and pointed him in a future direction. As a result, Peter was transformed into a wholehearted follower of Christ.
In a study of Deuteronomy 8, Vijay explains how the only gift of thanks that can be offered to God in response to his goodness and grace to us is our obedience. Our obedience to the Lord is also the means through which the Lord flourishes us. But, obedience is never easy. Both hardship and prosperity can tempt us away from a life of obedience to the Lord. Nonetheless, every opportunity to drift away is also an opportunity to greater faithfulness and obedience. In the end, those who fail to obey risk losing life as it was truly meant to live.
Vijay looks at the concluding miracle that appears in the Gospel of John (21.1-14). He observes that we can often speak of encountering God in 'mountain top' moments (success, supernatural experience, at a Christian conference and so on). Looking back at our difficult 'valley' moments (disappointments, sorrows, failures and so on), we can sometimes speak about the tenderness of God that we experienced. Very rarely we note that the bulk of our lives are lived in neither place of rapturous ecstasy or despair. It is mostly lived on the 'plains' (the day-to-day grind of life). Jesus meets the disciples while they are unsucessfully fishing on the Sea of Tiberias. An encounter with him makes an ordinary day turn out to be an extraordinary day when they are reminded of their calling to be witnesses for Jesus.
Vijay concludes his series on the 7 signs of John's Gospel this morning with the Raising of Lazarus (John 11.1-44). In today's sermon, he asks the difficult question: how do we as Christians deal with what sometimes seems like the silence of an all-powerful and all-good God in the face of human suffering, evil and death. Whatever the answer may look like or however the difficulties of this problem might be reconciled, the believer is asked to trust the love of Christ. There are ultimate answers that we may find difficult to understand, but Jesus shows enough of his love to sustain us while we grapple faithfully with the problem of suffering and death.
Vijay looks at the 7th and last Messianic sign in John's Gospel, the raising of Lazarus from the dead (John 11.1-44). In this part of his exposition, he expands on the astonishing claim that Jesus makes. Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. Life is not simply some sort of material thing or process, but a person. Jesus is the very source and cause of all creation and life. To reject Christ ultimately is to reject the very source that animates and energises life. But, to believe in Jesus is not only to enjoy life before physical death, but to continue to do so for all eternity with a resurrected body.
Returning to the Healing of the Man Born Blind (John 9.1-38), Vijay looks at how Jesus, the Light of the World gives sight to those who believe him and worship him as Lord. From this account we learn that faith in Christ Jesus gives us the true perspective, allowing us to see the universe, our circumstances and lives for what they truly are.
When is doubt not doubt? Answer - when it's disbelief. In this message, James looks at the encounter between the risen Lord Jesus Christ and the man who is popularly known as "Doubting Thomas". This encounter transformed Thomas from someone who stubbornly refused to believe the evidence of the resurrection into someone who worshipped Jesus as his Lord and God.
In part one of two sermons on Jesus' encounter with the man born blind (John 9.1-38), Vijay looks at some of the lessons learned about who Jesus is as the Light of the World. As Light of the World, Jesus offers not only physical, but also spiritual sight to the blind. We do not properly see things for what they are until we are first illuminated by seeing Jesus.
In the race of life, is it your desire to finish well? How can this be done? Florence concludes her series on various aspects of faith in the life of the great Old Testament leader, Moses, and highlights five ways that we can have faith that finishes and finishes well.
In this sermon, Vijay looks at John 6.16-21. He observes that we find ourselves feeling the most helpless when we experience 'natural' needs (like sickness, natural calamities, death and so on). In this passage, the disciples encounter Jesus while they are in a boat on a stormy sea. In their moment of deepest need, they see Jesus walking on water. They seem him as the One who is Lord over nature. Jesus is not subject to the physical laws of nature. If Jesus provides help where we feel most helpless (in our natural needs), he will surely meet us in every other need. Those who turn to Jesus in their need, find that his answers exceed their expectations.
Iain speaks on the Book of Ruth and highlights that God is still working despite the circumstances that we experience.
What do two miraculous pregnacies, a bouncing baby boy, an all time hit worship song, family trouble and a sermon from a man who had been deaf and dumb all have in common? Answer - they all formed part of the series of amazing events leading up to the first Christmas. In this one-off message, James looks at the exciting build up to the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ and extracts some practical lessons for us as we approach Christmas.
Mary mother of Jesus gets mentioned by name less than 20 times in the New Testament but she is an intriguing character. Pete looks in a bit more detail at the life of the person who probably spent more time than anyone else with Jesus.
The incarnation refers to God coming in the form of humanity. But, why does God do so? Hebrews 1.1-4 states that it is so that humans could come to know and love God and be known and loved by God. The Son of God lays aside all advantage and takes on the vulnerability of a man in order to offer every human the opportunity to know him personally.
Moses was a great Old Testament leader who spoke face-to-face with God and is mentioned more than once in the Bible as a man of faith. Despite this, he experienced failure. In this message, Florence shows that failure doesn’t have to be final and gives six ways that we can apply lessons from this incident in Moses’ life to our own circumstances.
Vijay looks at John's account of Jesus' feeding of the five thousand . He reminds us that the point of the account is not just to highlight the miraculous provision of food for the crowd. All the details of this miracle are clues to a deeper point that John's Gospel is making. Jesus is the new Moses who satisfies humanity's deepest hunger by offering himself to them. He is the Shepherd Lord who provides humanity their deepest need. He concludes by offering a challenge. Are we open to Jesus meeting our deepest needs the way he will meet them or do we insist that he meet our deepest needs the way we expect him to?
In this second of the messages from the Transforming Encounters series, James explores how an encounter with the risen Christ completely transforms two discouraged people into a picture of dynamic enthusiasm.
Based on Matt. 22 v 34-40, we’re asked to love God with every part of our being, then love our neighbour (anyone) in the same way. Is it an overwhelming assignment?
Fiona Morrison from Tear Fund gave an inspirational overview of the work of the charity
In John 5.1-18, Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath who has been incapacitated by illness. By doing this on a Sabbath, Jesus claims to be God. This is because as far as the Jews were concerned working on the Sabbath is God's prerogative. The man who is healed by Jesus responds to this amazing miracle on the Sabbath with apathy. The Jewish authorities respond to Jesus with outrage, his actions are blasphemous. Vijay asks the question: how do we who confess Jesus to be Lord respond to his claims. At least those who respond with hostility understand how remarkable the Lordship of Christ really is. He challenges us to respond to the claim that Jesus is Lord with lives that correspond with the confession
Iain talks about how true worship comes from the heart in response to our deep love for God.
Florence continues her series of incidents from the life of Moses with “Faith that Follows”. Moses followed God’s instructions by returning to Egypt; by petitioning Pharaoh to let God’s people go; and by instituting the Passover. Florence goes on to show the link between the Passover and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross and how we, too, can have faith that follows.
Christianity is not just about feelings and beliefs, it's also about facts. The greatest fact is that on the third day after his crucifixion, Jesus rose from the dead. People met Him and were completely transformed. In the first message of this new series, James looks at the encounter Mary Magdalene had with the risen Jesus, an encounter which transformed her from a picture of despair to a picture of delight.
Rebecca, Anna, Kirstie and Sophia got baptised !
Here are their testimonies after a message from Vijay:
Jesus' encounter with the woman with the haemorrhage in Luke 8:42-48 sheds light on the nature of different barriers to faith in Christ Jesus. The woman overcomes at least four different kinds of barriers when she encounters Jesus in faith: the crowds, the disciples, the person of Jesus and herself.
Faith in Christ is an invitation to take what often feels like a risky step through these barriers. Those who do so discover that they gain from Jesus much more than they asked for. They become children of God.
Florence begins a four-part series on incidents from the life of Moses. In this first message in the series, she looks at "Faith that Fears", showing how Moses, a man of faith, demonstrated five examples of fear when he encountered God at the burning bush. Tune in to this message and see how many of these you can relate to.
This morning, Vijay draws some lessons from Jesus' encounter with the Royal Official in John 4:46-54. Many come to Jesus wanting to see his signs and miracles. To them 'seeing is believing'. But, Jesus' invitation to himself is something much greater than an invitation to meet a miracle worker. He wants them to believe that he is the Saviour of the World. In fact, only those who believe in him truly see properly. They see Jesus for who he really is and life for what it really is. Seeing is not believing. But, believing is seeing.
Isaiah was privileged to have a glimpse of the King of Glory. But who is He? James concludes his series from Isaiah 6 by showing that the King of Glory is none other than our Lord Jesus Christ.
In this morning's service, Vijay looks at the subject of worship. He gleans insights about the nature of worship from Judah's dedication of the wall in Neh 12.27-47. Worship, he suggests, is full of gratitude, active and Scripture-led. A worshipful individual and community is marked with joy and generosity.
First in Vijay's Tuesday night ' Tough Questions ' series - part of our regular Tuesday night bible study
Iain speaks about the storm in Matthew 14 and the importance of keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Prayer: What do you think of it? What do you pray about? Do you see God answer, then share what it's all about?
Lets look at answers from Acts 12 and how it can inspire you for another year at school or work.
Iain continues with his study in Colossians by looking at Ch3v1-4. He highlights what Christ has done for us, wants to do for us and will do for us.
Pete reminds us that we all have a part to play in telling God's story - and we shouldn't beat ourselves up if we don't appear to have a starring role.
Concluding the mini-series 'Good News' Casting based on Jeremiah 1, Vijay looks at a barrier to evangelism, namely, our inadequacy. He observes that evangelism is not optional to discipleship. It is true that followers of Christ find that their strength and skill is inadequate for the task of evangelism. But, God strengthens them with his presence, supplies them with the message and makes their lives a living witness for Him.
Michael Benefield lays out the broad view of God's purposes begining with his act of creating the universe to what He will ultimately accomplish in this world. He then applies that to the relevance of this truth to our every day lives.
If you enjoyed this sermon, perhaps you would consider supporting future episodes
Continuing his previous sermon from the series, 'Good News' Casting, Vijay looks at Jeremiah 1 to glean insights into understanding why God's good news really is 'good news'. It is because only the Christian God is the basis of objective morality. In proclaiming the truth of who Christ is a person is brought into the right moral framework that expresses itself in right action. He also goes on to suggest that we all fear something. Having the right object of fear, i.e., God, once again provides the framework for who we may live in the world.
If you enjoyed this sermon, perhaps you could consider supporting future episodes
What should be our response to the experience of meeting God and receiving His forgiveness? James continues his series "The King of Glory" by showing, from the life of Isaiah the prophet that the only appropriate response is to offer ourselves immediately and unconditionally to serve the King.
If you enjoyed this sermon, perhaps you would consider supporting future episodes
Brian's challenging message on evangelism from the Sunday night service
If you enjoyed this sermon, perhaps you would consider supporting future episodes
Bob Dunbar's talk from the Sunday evening service this week
If you enjoyed this sermon, perhaps you would consider supporting future episodes
Iain concludes Colossians Ch2 by considering some of the challenges that christians are faced with, as they seek, by faith, to follow Jesus.'
Vijay starts a mini-series titled 'Good News' Casting. It looks at the subject of evangelism. In this first sermon, featuring three real-life testimonies, he looks specifically at some aspects of the 'message' of evangelism. From Jeremiah 1, he suggests that the 'Good News' message is a bitter-sweet message that calls people to renounce their idols and base their security on the true God.
Iain continues with Part 6 of his study in Colossians. He considers how faith and following are fundamental to being a Christian.
Feel in need of some refreshment? In John chapter 4, Jesus has a surprising conversation with a woman at a well where he offers her 'living water' that will bring her eternal satisfaction.
In this concluding 'postcard', Vijay looks at the Lord's letter to Laodicea (Rev 3.14-22). From this letter, we learn that perseverance is about resisitng the urge to become a 'spiritual daydreamer'. By this, Vijay, means a kind of complacence that threatens especially those gripped by materialism. 'Daydreamers' are under the illusion that their wellbeing is dependent on material prosperity and physical health. It results in an apathy towards spiritual matters.
In this next 'postcard', Vijay looks at the Lord's letter to Philadelphia (Rev 3.7-13). From this letter we learn that perseverance is about holding on to Christ Jesus in the face of suffering. It is the commitment to continue obeying him, refusing to deny him no matter what the circumstances. Those who never let Jesus go discover he has in fact, never let go of them.
In the fifth part of the 'Postcards for Plodders' series, Vijay turns to the Lord's letter to Sardis (Rev 3.1-6). He speaks about a kind of complacency that he calls 'spiritual sleepwalking'. It is when a church or believer goes through the motions and activites of the spiritual life on autopilot. The 'postcard' to Sardis reminds us that perseverance is about diligently keeping our focus on Christ Jesus and not on our spiritual activities
The account of the conflict between David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17 is well known to many people. In this message, Florence takes five steps as she walks through some important principles that can help us apply the lessons from this story to our own lives.
Iain talks about some of the forgotten verses of Genesis that reveal the true character of God
Jacob encounters God in a dream when he is in a completely desolate place (Gen 28.10-22). This passage reminds us that God meets us in the most surprising places of our lives. He changes the nondescript places of our lives to make them places where we encounter Him in worship.
Isaiah was privileged to have an amazing vision of God. Did this have the effect of making him proud or conceited? Absolutely not! A fresh vision of God gave him a fresh vision of his own sinfulness, but also led him to experience God's grace in a new way.
continuing his studies in Colossians, Iain starts to look at chapter 2 and considers what is the real church
Isaiah 6 gives us a 'sneak-peek' of worship in heaven where the focus is always and entirely upon God. Can the same be said of our worship?
Communication isn't the main strong point of the male species - Pete discusses a few of the issues that men ( and probably women!) have with prayer, and the answers which God provided to these questions !
The Psalms allows us to be real and we don't have to pretend to be someone we're not.
Florence takes a look at Psalm 119:25-32 where the psalmist gives us an ABC of connecting with God when things go wrong. He encourages us to:
- Acknowledge our distress
- Be confident in God's word
- Choose the right way to live
Iain finishes Colossians Chapter one, by considering Paul's amazing statement, 'Christ lives in you'.
In the fourth sermon of the series 'Postcards for Plodders', Vijay looks at Christ's letter to Thyatira (Rev 2.18-29). Perseverance, according to this letter, means remaining unwavering in 'principled love'. This is a love that is grounded and informed by the truth revealed in Scriptures.
In the third of the 'Postcard for Plodders' series, Vijay looks at the Lord's letter to Pergamum (Rev 2.12-17). From this 'postcard' we learn that perseverance is about not compromising on the essentials. When followers of Jesus compromise their faith, they concede important teachings in the core beliefs and/or grow morally lax for some perceived gain. Perseverance means resisting compromise.
For the Evening Service, Vijay looks 2 Kings 4:1-7. He reminds us that we often don't know how needy and dependent we really are until our foundations are pulled out from under us. But, these sorts of situations can bring us to realise that we all are ultimately dependent on God. When we turn to him, we find ourselves fulfilled with his abundance.
In the second 'Postcard for Plodders', Vijay looks at the letter of Christ to Smyrna (Rev 2.8-11). This letter looks at perseverance from a another angle. Perseverance means hanging on to the faith and values that you know to be true as a follower of Jesus even when it means you have to suffer and die for it.
In the first message of this new series from Isaiah 6, James focuses on the exaltation of God who is the King of Glory and shows how a fresh vision of Him encourages us as we face an uncertain future
Vijay starts a new series, titled Postcards for Plodders based on the 7 Letters in the Book of Revelations. Each of these 7 letters highlight a different aspect of what it means for the church and individuals in it to persevere. The letter to Ephesus highlights the importance of remaining unwavering in our love towards God and the world (and all its inhabitants). This love must inform and generate everything that we do. Sadly, it is possible to do and know all the right things and yet do all of it without love.
Have you ever wondered what real love is? Florence unpacks 1 Corinthians 13:1-7 to find out why love is important, what it looks like and how we can display it in our everyday relationships.
To conclude the 24/3 Prayer, Vijay brings our attention to the Lord's Prayer. Expanding on the words of the Lord's Prayer, Vijay highlights three activities involved in prayer. When we pray, we make requests to God: learn about God, ourselves and the world; and commit to a certain course of action. The Lord's Prayer contains 6 petitions, each of which are explored briefly in today's sermon. He then closes the Word challenging us to live prayerfully not just for the 3 days we have designated for prayer as a church, but also for our whole lives.
In anticipation of this week's 24/3 prayer, Vijay speaks on the relationship between spiritual drought and prayer. Fleshing out the story of Elijah's prayer for rain in 1 Kings 18, he suggests three things: 1) spiritual drought is the result of idolatry. He notes that compromise is idolatry, as much as a wholehearted devotion to anything other than God. 2) Spiritual abundance is the result of repentance. And repentance is something that God initiates in our life as he woos us with his love. 3) Prayer is when the forgiven and faith-filled people of God lay hold of God's willingness to bless and fill us with his abundance.
Iain continues his studies in Colossians Chapter One, by reminding us that we have been reconciled to God through Christ, who brings us into the very presence of God. Therefore, we are encouraged to move forward into the new year with confidence and purpose and not to drift away.’
On this first Sunday of the new year, Vijay draws attention to some Paul's last words in 2 Timothy 4.7-8. Keeping the faith is Paul's language for perseverance. But, what does that look like. Using the example of a soldier, Paul reminds us that perseveran
Uncertain is a word that most aptly describes the future. In this one-off message, James suggests that getting a fresh view of God as He really is can help us cope with an uncertain future. When we see God as He is, there are a number of other inevitable consequences...
This morning, Vijay explores Joseph's experience of the Christmas story (Matt 1:18-24). He suggests that for Joseph, the miracle of the virgin birth pales in comparison to the real miracle of Christmas - that God would become human. But, that is the great insight of Christmas: God is 'Immanuel', the God who has always (right from the creation of the world) been a God who is with us and for us. What the birth of Jesus makes concrete for Joseph and for every believer is that this is not some kind of abstract idea. He is really with us in every circumstance of our lives. He really does deliver us from our sins.
We often look for God to reveal himself in spectacular ways when we should be seeking him in silence
What is faith, why is it important, and how can you demonstrate it? In this message, Florence unpacks these questions by looking at the first few verses of Hebrews 11. Be challenged as you compare your faith to Old Testament characters like Abel, Enoch, Noah and Abraham and be encouraged as you hear how faith that is centred on Jesus Christ can help you keep going through times of uncertainty.
This morning Vijay looks at what was so special about Mary that she would become the mother of the Son of God incarnate. Looking at different portions of Scripture, Vijay explains that God didn't choose Mary because she was special, but Mary became favoured and special because God chose her. What was true of Mary is true for us today. Having said that, Mary did have a special quality - her complete surrender to the Lord's will. God's gift of himself is unconditional, but we can receive or reject it.
Vijay brings a meditation on the woman who suffers haemorrhages for 12 years (Lk 8.43-48). He reminds us that when we press to Jesus, he brings us wholeness.
This morning Vijay interviews Pastor Ashim Baroy who serves as Assistant Superintendent of the Baptist Church Sangha in Bangladesh. Pastor Baroy speaks of the joys and challenges of ministry in Bangladesh. Following the interview Vijay examines Acts 11.19
Session 10 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie concludes a series of studies with this session focussing on the question "What about the Church?"
Vijay introduces today's baptisms with a reflection on how God pursues us and prompts us to surrender our lives to him. Many still resist his pursuit even if it hurts them. Testimonies by Sam Taylor and Brendan McLaughlin follow the sermon. Both tell their story of what brought them to the place where they want to be baptised as believers. The podcast includes excerpts of the baptism.
Session 9 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with this session focussing on the question "Does God heal today?"
James Packham brings a poignant meditation on what it means to run the race of faith and finish well. Looking at Hebrews 12, he encourages us to persevere faithfully knowing that a great cloud of witnesses is supporting us. And more importantly - that God himself runs alongside us to make sure we cross the finish line.
Session 7 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with this seventh session focussing on "How can I resist evil?"
Some people are quick to spot the miraculous hand of God in their own lives, the lives of others and in circumstances. Other completely miss it. Vijay looks at the account of Jesus at the Wedding in Cana where he turns water into wine (John 2:1-12). He gleans insights from this passage that help us keep us sensitive to the incredible glory of God present particularly in the ordinary events of day to day life.
Session 6 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with this sixth session focussing on "How does God guide us?"
Iain continues his studies in Colossians by considering Col 1 v15. He encourages us to remember that Jesus is the Christ. The one who is all powerful, who created everything and who knows everything.
Session 5 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with this fifth session focussing on "Why and how should I read the Bible?"
Brian Boyd reflects on the simple truth of the famous children's song. He reminds us that in the death and resurrection of Jesus we see the depth and extent of God's love for the world.
Are you living up to who you are as a Christian? Are you living in unity with others in your church? Are you living out the attitude of Jesus Christ? Tune in to Florence's message from Philippians 2:1-11 and discover how humility is a necessary ingredient in enhancing our relationships.
James concludes his series on Psalm 23. The Good Shepherd is so committed to his sheep that he sends his two sheep-dogs, Goodness and Mercy, to round up the strays and guide them safely home.
Session 4 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with this fourth session focussing on "Why and How do I Pray?"
Our Youth Pastor, Gillian MacKenzie, looks at various passages in Scripture, highlighting the important quality of being an encourager. In a wider culture where humiliating people is often seen as a form of entertainment, God calls us to do something completely counter-cultural: become people who encourage others by means of our thought-life, speech and action.
It is difficult to trust Christ in our adversity. Vijay looks at the account of Peter (and Jesus) Walking on Water found in Matthew 14:22-33. He gleans insights from the passage and suggests that adversity, among other things, offers the disciple the opportunity to change their way of looking at life and to encounter Jesus for who he truly is.
Session 3 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with this third session focussing on "How can we have Faith?"
This morning Vijay observes how often we fail to see how central the principle of sacrifice really is for discipleship. The first worship service ever to take place in the Tabernacle, recorded in Leviticus 9, was a series of sacrifices. A life lived in worship of God is a life that is completely placed on the altar. We give ourselves to God because he deserves our all. But, in a strange twist, it is we who are enriched by our offering, not God. We are the ones blessed and transformed by the fire of God's glory.
Session 2 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with this second session focussing on "Why did Jesus Die?"
Sometimes we are very slow to learn important lessons. James looks at a psalm in which the main point is emphasised no less than 13 times! It's Psalm 150 and the main point is 'Praise the LORD'.
Graham's testimony: How he became a Christian, what matured him and where he is now in his walk with the Lord. Including how faith which was firm in crisis seeped away over time, and how God alerted him and welcomed him back into a strengthened relationship.
Session 1 of the 2010 Alpha Course held at Aberdeen Christian Fellowship. Iain Gillespie leads a series of studies with the first session focussing on "Who is Jesus?".
(Apologies for mobile phone interference at beginning of session).
Iain starts a new series entitled 'Christ is all that Matters'. These will be studies from the book of Colossians. The first sermon reminds us that our identity is firmly centered in Christ.
Vijay preaches from 2 Kings 5:1-19 this morning. He unpacks the story of Naaman's healing. He observes that one of the biggest hindrances to God healing and restoring us is that we are unwilling to humbly submit to God's prescription. God heals and restores us His way not ours. And if we seek to benefit from his healing, we need to relinquish complete control.
Vijay looks at Acts 4:13 this morning and exhorts us to be famous for our passionate love and devotion to Christ. It is this core loving relationship we enjoy with Jesus that is the source of everything else we do as individuals and as a congregation. Our lives will be fragrant to our families, colleagues, community and world only because we can truly say we know Jesus and love Him.
Most of us want to be happy and much of the time our happiness consists of good feelings in response to favourable circumstances. But how do we find the kind of happiness that is marked by contentment and fulfillment, and lasts from this life to the next? Tune in to Florence's message on Psalm 1 and learn how to have a fulfilled life, avoid a futile life and be ready for your future life.
Abundant Living Now! James continues his series in Psalm 23 by looking at the provision, protection and privileges which are ours as followers of Jesus Christ.
In this morning’s sermon, Vijay looks at Jesus’ interaction with Simon, the Pharisee and the Sinful Woman in Luke 7.36-50. He explains, the only proper way to approach Jesus is on our knees, in humble surrender.
Unpacking Psalm 30, Vijay looks at the subject of gratitude. He identifies three reasons why the disciple of Christ ought to be grateful: because God lifts us up; because he answers prayer and because God’s favour remains on us forever.
Adversity and trials are an inescapable part of life. Vijay examines Hannah’s story, in 1 Samuel 1, for an excellent example of how our difficulties can be an opportunity for God to do some of his greatest work in us and through us.
In the concluding sermon to the series Building on Bedrock, Vijay looks at the believer's final eternal destination. He looks at the subject of heaven and the New Creation. Looking at Revelation 21-22, he explains that God's ultimate plans for the future is to restore and renew all of creation. Ultimately, the believer will live eternally in God's presence worshiping God and enjoying the riches of eternal life along with all those who trusted in God through Christ Jesus.
Bad things happen. Sometimes we go through very dark times. In them there is only one source of genuine comfort, the presence of the Good Shepherd with us. James continues his series in Psalm 23.
It's all in the mind - and to a large extent it is! In this, the third and final message in Florence's series, "Who Do You Think You Are?", she looks at the importance of the way we think and explores how a renewed mind leads to renewed thinking.
Continuing the theme of Christian Hope, Vijay looks at another great expectation. Unpacking Philippians 3.20-21, he observes that when Jesus Christ returns he will raise the bodies of the dead, reuniting soul and body. Jesus will give to those who have trusted him, bodies like his own glorious body. He points out that the literal resurrection of physical bodies is unique to the Christian vision of life after death.
Vijay looks at the subject of 'Hope'. He looks specifically at the one event that seems to define Christian Hope, the Second Coming of Jesus. Basing his sermon on Phil 3.20-21, he notes that Jesus inaugurates the 'Last Days' and the Kingdom of God when he first came to earth. Since his ascension, Jesus now rules the Church from heaven by means of the Holy Spirit. As he promised, he will one day return from heaven and fully establish his just and eternal Kingdom on earth. In light of Jesus' return, believers conduct themselves in this world like citizens of the heavenly kingdom.
The shepherd of Psalm 23 promises to be our guide. Where, why and how does he guide us? Find out as James continues his series "The Main Thing".
As part of the 'Foundations' series, Vijay now turns to the subject of Hope. In this Sunday's sermon, he looks at the universal experience and nature of hope. He concludes the sermon reminding us that God alone is big enough for the incredible hope that we have as children of God. All other basis for hope is inadequate. God alone will accomplish what he has set out to do.
Knowing that we are precious in God's sight is good news. Regardless of what other people think of us, or even how we view ourselves, the important thing to recognise is that we are valuable to our God and Saviour. As well as the need to be valued, we also need to feel secure and significant. Tune in to the second part of Florence's series Who Do You Think You Are?to learn what God says about these important aspects of our identity.
On this Easter Sunday, Vijay reflects on the meaning of Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. Like the disciples, it feels like we are in the longest Saturday waiting for Easter. But, God's faithfulness assures us that Sunday is on its way.
Focusing on Acts 11.19-30, Vijay looks at the subject of church planting. Church planting is the process through which healthy Christ-centred churches are started and established. He makes some observations and offers guidelines based on the passage.
For today's Baptism Service, looking at various portions of Exodus 32-34 and John's Gospel, Vijay explores how the glory of God is seen in the goodness of God. God's glory is ultimately seen in Christ Jesus. And paradoxically, the place where the glory of God is most visible is in the goodness of God revealed at the cross of Jesus Christ.
Vijay continues part three of his sermons on Evangelism based on Acts 17.16-34. This morning he looks at how we tell God's story. He speaks about the attitudes, activities and dispositions that allow us to be effective when persuading people to become followers of Jesus.
This morning Vijay continues looking at the subject of evangelism. Picking up where he left off in Acts 17.16-34, he focuses on the question 'what is evangelism'. Evangelism, he notes, is primarily the verbal task of communicating God's story revealed in the person and work of Jesus. It is persuading others to become followers of Jesus through verbal explanation and elaboration.
Iain looks at the biblical response to worry. He highlights that our God is able to deal with anything that we bring to Him in prayer.
Vijay looks at the subject of Evangelism this morning. Basing his sermon around Acts 17:16-34, he suggests that evangelism is what followers of Jesus do when they share with others the 'good news' for what God has done for them, the world and all creation through the person and work of Jesus Christ. This sharing is intended to persuade the listener to become a follower of Jesus Christ and enjoy God's ultimate restoration offered in him.
Iain continues his series by giving an overview of the Gospel of John, highlighting that Jesus is God.
Continuing the 'Foundations' series, Vijay looks at the subject of the Christian missionary enterprise. The sermon focuses on Jesus' Great Commision to his disciples found in Matt 28.16-20. World Missions, Vijay explains, is what the Church does in obedience to Jesus' assignment to make disciples of all nations. It involves individuals and communities crossing borders and cultures for the sake of Christ. It is the proclamation (both in word and deed) that God's commitment to restore the world is now available in Jesus Christ.
Florence begins a short series about discovering our identity in Jesus Christ. In part one, she looks at how the image of God became disfigured in human beings, was revealed in Jesus Christ and is being restored in his followers.
This morning, Vijay looks at the subject of 'Mission' as part of his 'Foundations' series. He begins this part of the series by showing how Mission is part of God's very nature. All God's interactions with his creation, history and humanity reveals that God is the Missionary God. He is busy in the world making something spectacular for the entire creation. The Church's mission is participating in the Mission of God.
James continues with his series on Psalm 23 and explains how God restores us inwardly so we can become "as good as new".
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Vijay gives an exhortation for 2010. He reminds us, from the story of Esther, that God is in control behind the scenes of our lives, events of the world and human history. The knowledge that God is in control should lead us to courageous action, not to complacency or compromise. Let us live our lives this year as if God really mattered to us.
Continuting the 'Foundations' series, Vijay concludes the topic of Spiritual Warfare. Focusing on 1 John 2.15-17, Vijay looks at the 3rd spiritual enemy, the 'world'. The 'world' is the system of life that is lived in opposition to life under the rule of God. The 'world' pressures us to conform to cultural and social values, traditions, customs and philosophies that contradict God. The believer wages war against the world by being aware of the world's scams and living with an eternal perspective.
What do a great fish, a vine, a worm and a scorching east wind all have in common? Tune in to the final part of Florence's series on Jonah for Grown-ups to find out!
Vijay continues to look at the subject of Spiritual Warfare as part of the 'Foundations' series. Galatians 5 is the text in focus. This morning he looks at the second enemy that the believer engages in battle, the 'flesh'. The 'flesh' is the human tendency towards evil. Although faith in Christ breaks the ultimate power of the 'flesh' over the believers, they can still expect to struggle against the pull of the 'flesh' No amount of human willpower can defeat the influence of the 'flesh'. It is only through the guidance and strength of the Holy Spirit that it is overcome
James begins a new series on Psalm 23 called The Main Thing, exploring what it means to know God.
Have you ever been angry at God's compassion towards those who you think don't deserve it? Tune in to part 5 of Florence's series on Jonah for Grown-ups and discover some of the factors which gave rise to Jonah's anger. Perhaps you'll be able to relate to some of them!
In these ongoing 'Foundations' Series, Vijay looks at the subject of Spiritual Warfare. In today's sermon, he suggests that the believer can expect supernatural evil opposition pushing towards destructive attitudes and actions. He then outlines the 3 enemies (the devil, 'flesh' and 'world') that form the combined assault against the child of God.
In James's final message on the life of Job, he looks behind the curtain to find out the real reason why Job suffered as he did.
Continuing the 'Foundations' series, Vijay looks at the role of suffering in forming holiness. Fleshing out several passages in 1 Peter, Vijay looks at how God uses the fires of our suffering to refine our character and bring us to the place where we can.
Iain continues his series about the love of God, by emphasizing the need to experience God's love in our own lives.
Robert explains the Calling, Condition and Context of the Issachar people in 1Chronicles 12:32
In this sermon, Vijay expands the meditation he gave the church at the church's AGM. Followers of Jesus are marked by a number of things. In John 1:35-51 we see 3 'I's that mark them. Disciples are 1) inclusive, loving and accepting all they meet; 2) they invite others to meet Jesus and 3) they expect God to increase their numbers and maturity.
Jonah FINALLY did what God told him and went to Nineveh with a message of judgement and - guess what? The people all cried out to God and he had mercy on them! Tune in now to listen to Florence's fourth message in her series "Jonah for Grown-ups".
Iain introduces a new topic concerning Christ and his cross. He shows how the love of Christ shown on the cross should constrain us to live well for Him.
As part of the 'Foundations' series, Vijay looks specifically at the subject of holiness and the Christian Life. God calls his disciples to social holiness expressed in a commitment to seeing his justice and goodness established on earth. When the Son of God became man, he gave up his privilege and advantage as God and announced that the Kingdom of God had come. We, as disciples of Jesus, must similarly be willing to let go of privilege and advantage to see God's justice and goodness extended to the whole world.
We come to the end of the life of Job and discover that he lived happily ever after (well, sort of). In addition to getting a new perspective on God and himself, Job experiences new relationships, new prosperity, and a new lease of life.
Continuing the 'Foundation' series. Vijay looks at how the outworking of our relationship with God results in our personal holiness. This morning's mediation is from Philippians 2.3-4. Vijay explains that a believer's personal holiness is expressed when all their conversation and conduct demonstrates concern and consideration for others.
Do difficult experiences always change us? Some would argue that they do, but whether this change is for better or worse depends on how we respond. The prophet Jonah found himself in a hard, dark place. Find out how he responded to his unpleasant circumstances by tuning in to part three of Florence's latest message on Jonah for Grown-ups: a story of God's outrageous grace.
Vijay continues the 'Foundation' series this morning looking at the ninth foundational block, the Christian Life. The disciple of Jesus is called to be holy just as God is holy. In today's sermon, Vijay looks at the OT roots of holiness. The lesson we learn from God's call to Israel is that holiness is an outworking of the believer's relationship with a Holy God. This relationship produces in us holiness both in personal conduct and the way we relate to a wider world.
Iain concludes his series about seeing God by looking at Isaiah ch6. In this chapter he talks about the practical aspects of ensuring God is being seen in our lives.
Following the dedication of two babies this morning, Vijay preaches from Hebrews 12.2. He reminds us that faith emerges and matures in a person as they keep the of their lives focus fixed on Jesus.
Following the testimony of several folk who are baptised this morning, Vijay preaches from John 10:10. He explains that our first impulse is to make sense of the world we are born into. Like sheep we seek to be guided into understanding the world. The claim of the Christian faith is that life will never make sense to us until we relate positively to God. We come to that relationship by following Jesus, the giver of abundant life.
Job had asked God many questions but, instead of answering them, God questions Job. The end result is that, while Job doesn't have his questions answered, he meets God in a new way.
In this sermon, Vijay continues with his 'foundation' series looking at the spiritual discipline of confession. He explains that in confession we admit our deepest failures, weakness and sins to God and to trusted individuals in the Body of Christ. The purpose of this regular discipline is that we might experience God's grace, forgiveness and healing.
With the world about us in meltdown at the public scandals and dishonesty that are so evident, Christians must hold true to Jesus' claim that we must be salt and light in the world.
As part of the 'Foundation' series, Vijay speaks about prayer in this sermon. He explains that prayer is conversation with God, the result of which brings transformation to us and the world around us.
Are you currently on the run from God? Do you prefer to go your own way rather than His? Then watch out! Like Jonah, you could find yourself immersed in a storm of your own making which has far-reaching consequences, not only for you, but for other people. Tune in to the second part of Florence's message, Jonah for Grown-ups: a story of God's outrageous grace.
Continuing the 'foundation' series, Pastor Vijay looks at Bible Study as a Spiritual Discipline. Bible Study is that discipline of the spiritual life where the follower of Jesus intentionally engages the mind and heart with Scripture in such a way that allows Scripture to form and transform them.
In this short all-age Easter sermon, Pastor Vijay outlines some of the ways people responded to the risen Jesus. Like today many believe and many struggle to believe. But, the invitation to trust him remains the same today as it about 2000 years ago.
Iain continues his series in Isaiah - this week focusing on Isaiah 53 and the suffering of Christ.
Christian maturity comes from following the balanced course of the spiritual disciplines. The 2 dangers that threaten to destroy the spiritual life are legalism and license. The path of the disciplines seeks to avoid both in the strength of the Holy Spirit.
Pastor Vijay explains the central significance of the second ordinance, Communion. Communion is the rite of the Church by which we remember the significance of what Jesus did on the cross for the world. It is a reminder that one day we will see him again.Pastor Vijay explains the central significance of the second ordinance, Communion. Communion is the rite of the Church by which we remember the significance of what Jesus did on the cross for the world. It is a reminder that one day we will see him again.
Ever feel like doing your own thing and going your own way, even though this conflicts with God's purpose for you? If so, you're not alone. One of God's servants, the prophet Jonah, shows us that running from God is the worst thing you can do. Even when things appear to be going well, Jonah's experiences let us know that favourable circumstances do not necessarily mean you are living right. Tune in for the first part of Florence's new series - Jonah for Grown-ups: a story of God's outrageous grace.
James continues his series on the life of Job. Job's three friends came to comfort him and they did well - until they opened their mouths.
Marking our first year of planned giving towards the building project, Vijay preaches from Deuteronomy 1.6-7: 'you have remained on this mountain long enough, now resume the journey'. He reminds us that the call to discipleship is a call to be willing to take holy risks for God. Faith is an invitation to abandon our need for certainty. It is an invitation to trust God in the absence of such certainty. Stepping out of our comfort zones always seems risky. But, the truth is that our unwillingness to do so poses the greater risk to our discipleship.
Colin takes a Christian perspective on the subject of employment - how should we approach our work, whether it is paid work or time spent on God's work
Ever thought failure was final? Think again! When one of Jesus' disciples turned back to his Lord after messing up, Jesus restored him to a position greater than he'd ever known. Tune in to this week's message on Peter: a picture of restoration.
Martin from Souled Out delivered a powerful and massively relevant seminar on 24x7 worship- this was part 1 of a 2-part series
Richard makes a welcome return to the preaching team. His sermon follows his recent trip to India with the mission team.
James begins a new series, "Why?", on the life of Job. In the first message, we learn some important lessons on how to deal with life's tough circumstances by looking at how Job responded when his world fell apart.
The story of Christmas for Joseph is a story of 4 surprises. The first is some devastating news of Mary, his fiance's pregnancy. The second, is a strange angelic visitor with a message from God. The third, is a remarkable message that Mary's child is conceived by God and he will save the world from their sins. The fourth surprise is the most staggering of all - that the birth of Jesus shows that God is Immanuel, God with us - a God who is commited to the world in love. He is not far from us, but among us.
Christians have an incredible message of hope in a broken and hurting world. There is no embarrassment that Jesus is the reason for Christmas. And his message is the only hope for the world today.
How would you like some biblical perspective on your busy life? Martha of Bethany was a busy person but, although her busyness was out of necessity, it was also out of control and out of order. Pick up some practical tips when you listen in to this week's message on Martha: a picture of busyness.
Following on from Pete Henderson's testimony this morning, Vijay highlights lessons learned from the life of Joseph. In all things (our commendations & betrayals, memorable & unmemorable moments, triumphs & tragedies), God works to bring about good in the lives of his children.
James concludes his series on "The Crazy Claims of Christ". Moving from John's gospel to Revelation, we listen to the words of the glorified Jesus Christ as He underlines these great claims. If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd be grateful if you would consider supporting usPlease visit our website
Continuing the 'Foundations' series, Vijay now focuses on the two ordinances of the Church. He looks at Christian Baptism this morning. Baptism is the sign and symbol that a person has come to faith in God through Christ Jesus and is now part of God's New Covenant community, the church.
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Tired of past failures? Looking for a better tomorrow? Tune in to Zacchaeus: a picture of a new beginning and discover the importance of recognition, response and restitution when he came face to face with Jesus Christ. Oh, and you'll come across repentance and faith there as well...If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider Supporting us
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In this sermon, Vijay continues the 'Foundations' of faith series with a look at Daniel 3. Trials and difficulties test the resilience of faith. The call to discipleship is a call to follow Christ whatever the circumstance: mountaintops, valleys or just plateaus.
Jesus is the vine and we are the branches. We're supposed to bear fruit, but what is it, how do we bear it, and why should we do it? If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider Supporting usVisit our website www.aberdeencf.com
Purpose - many of us are looking for it, but how do we find it? Perhaps Mary, the mother of Jesus, has some things to teach us...
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We sometimes don't spend enough time telling each other about what God has done for us
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Andy Bathgate, Chief Executive of Scripture Union Scotland joins us as part of the 'Back to School with God' initiative
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James Duce presents a challenge to the church
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The Baptist Union of Scotland's Step-Out team spent the week with us running a programme of kids' activities - after a very successful week they ended by taking this morning's service
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5 babies were dedicated today
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Continuing the 'foundations' series, Vijay looks at a particular aspect of Church, namely, the Spiritual Gifts. He first outlines some biblical guidelines for exercising the Gifts in the Body of Christ. Then he places the Gifts in its proper perspective: Gifts are useful only when they are exercised out of love for God and his people.
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Andy Bathgate, Chief Executive of SU Scotland joins us as part of the Scripture Union 'Back to School with God' initiative
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In today's Family Service, Vijay looks at the subject of identity. We are shaped by the voices we listen to. As we begin to obey the voice of God, we find our identity and purpose being transformed. From messengers of hatred, we become messengers of God's love.
Jesus claimed to be the only way to God. Is that exclusive, inclusive, or both? And how can He actually be the way to God anyway?
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Vijay continues his foundations of the Christian faith series. In this first of two part study on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, he looks at the importance of the Gifts for the health of the Church. At the heart of understanding the Gifts is the recognition that a supernatural God supernaturally empowers individuals to build up the Church.
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When life takes a down-turn, what are our options? Perhaps we focus on the bad things happening around us and become thoroughly miserable or, like Habakkuk, we choose to centre our attention on God and rejoice in Him. What's your choice?
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Continuing his 'Bedrock' series, Vijay speaks about the importance of the Church as the Family of God. When God saves individuals, they are born into the Church. God has designed us to mature in the Church. Our most effective witness is the loving unity of the Church.
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Colin talks about the 3rd commandment - 'Do not take the name of the Lord your God in vain'
Can Jesus really raise the dead? He certainly can! What are the implications of this for us?
During her struggle to survive when her world fell apart, Naomi defined herself, for a limited time, as a bitter person. Listen in to discover some of the characteristics of bitterness and how the cross of Christ can change our perspective when we find ourselves developing a bitter outlook.
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Vijay continues his 'Bedrock' series speaking on the Spirit-Filled Life. When God gives the believer and the Church the gift of His Spirit, He gives everything we need for life and godliness. The Spirit-Filled Church is a place where the people of God relate rightly towards God and each other. The Spirit-Filled individual knows transformation of character and power in witness.
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Lazarus dies, Jesus delays, Martha struggles, Mary is crushed and Jesus weeps. Why? Jesus loves us, but desires God's glory above all things and also wants to strengthen our faith. And there's more to come... If you liked this podcast, please consider supporting us
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Vijay continues the 'Foundations' series with a sermon on the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God's gift to all who come to faith in God through Jesus. In the Old Testament, God promises a time when the Holy Spirit would dwell in the hearts of all enabling them to be obedient to God's righteous standards. This promise is fulfilled when Jesus pours out the Spirit.
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Florence continues her 'Every picture tells a story' series After Joseph is sold into slavery in Egypt, he demonstrates commitment in three major ways:* he is committed to sexual purity * he is committed to telling the truth * he is committed to serving God with excellence
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Jesus claims to be the good shepherd who dies for the sheep. Why does he need to die for them and who are they anyway? If you liked this podcast, please consider supporting us
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In the last of 3 sermons on the Cross of Christ, Vijay speaks about how the cross is the place where God is perfectly revealed. Those who see the amazing love of Christ are invited to live cross-shaped lives in loving obedience.
In this short message from the 2008 Easter service, Vijay speaks about how the cross of Christ is the place where God displays his victory.
In the 2nd of 3 sermons on the cross, Vijay speaks about how the cross is the place where God defeats Satan and removes his power over the world.
Jesus claims to be The Gate, but the gate to where and for whom? And - watch out! There's a thief about!
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As our 2nd March giving day approaches, Vijay gives some biblical principles behind giving
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There is no other name by which we must be saved... Colin talks about the things that can be found in the name of Jesus.
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In this 1st of 3 sermons on the Cross of Christ, Vijay speaks on how the cross is the place where God's justice and mercy are perfectly satisfied. On the cross Jesus pays the penalty for human sin, making it possible for our relationship with God to be restored. If you liked this podcast, please consider supporting us
Jesus claims to be the light of the world. For some people, this light penetrates their darkness but, for others, the darkness deepens...
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Colin looks forward to the new year and talks about the mountain top and valley moments which can affect our relationship with God. Billy also shares part of his testimony
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Jesus claims to be able to satisfy our deepest needs - true or false?
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Colin McKerracher makes a welcome return, today he talks about the Splendour of God.
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Vijay continues his 'fundamentals' series with a fascinating look at why Christians believe in the doctrine of the Trinity
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Jesus claims to be the eternal God and people try to kill Him. But what if it's true?
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Ian is one of our regular guest speakers
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Vijay lays out his vision for the structure of the church which will allow us to move forward with our vision
There were some questions after the presentation but the audio was a bit quiet so it hasn't been included
Elijah's ministry ends in a spectacular way. Elijah has gone - but where?
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Vijay starts a series covering the basics of what it means to follow Jesus. This first sermon focuses on the Bible as our guide for faith and life.
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God gives Elijah extraordinary courage to confront a wicked king - with a rather surprising outcome.
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Elijah is afraid and runs away. He has a fresh encounter with God and experiences restoration
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Vijay describes three basic characteristics of a follower of Christ
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Our visiting speaker Mark DeNeui uses Ephesians as the basis for his talk, with a passing reference to Star Wars !
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James speaks on the true meaning of the cross
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In this sermon, Vijay continues his stewardship service. Our greatest act of stewardship is when we sacrificially give all to God.
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Richard continues his series on spiritual fitness.
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Vijay uses the story of Mary and Martha to talk about how our busyness sometimes prevents us from entering a full relationship with God.
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You wouldn't expect God to team up with a prostitute to further His kingdom but as we see from the story of Rahab, He is able to use a little faith to perform miracles.
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For today's Baptism Service, Vijay reminds us that in a world where change seems to be the only thing we can be certain about, God remains eternal and unchanging
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Abe speaks on sacrifice basing his talk on Genesis 22
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Richard continues his series on spiritual fitness - today he looks at serving and being served by others
In the fifth part of his series on Stewardship, Vijay discusses how the church should be salt and light in the world.
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Dr Pete Williams brings out some challenging insights from the book of Jude.
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Elijah challenges false prophets. God displays His power in an amazing way and a revival begins
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God answers Elijah's prayers in two remarkable ways. From this, we learn the importance of trusting God and persevering in prayer.
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In the fourth part of his series on stewardship, Vijay looks at the subject of gifts. We are good stewards of the gifts God gives us when we use them to serve the church.
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Colin talks about the choices we make in following Jesus
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In the third part of his stewardship series, Vijay looks at the subject of money. The call to generosity extends to our financial giving. We are good stewards of God's resources when we give sacrificially to the work of God.
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The first in a series from James Mackenzie entitled 'Our God is an Awesome God'. Having prepared Elijah for ministry, God protects him from his enemies and miraculously provides for him
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In part 2 of his series on Stewardship, Vijay stresses the need to use our resources wisely, but to be prepared to take some risks for God
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Vijay begins his series on Stewardship.
He draws our attention to God’s call on each of our
lives to be people characterised by a spirit of
generosity.
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James concludes his series on happiness using Psalm 144 as a reference
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As we all head to the gym to work off our festive excesses Richard asks us to consider what time and resources we are prepared to devote to improving our spiritual health in 2007 - first in a series
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Colin speaks on the importance of the local church
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James continues his series on happiness with a talk based on Psalm 119 - don't panic though - he stops at verse 8 !
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What are the things which create distance between our hearts and God's heart?
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The short talk from our carol concert 'Jesus - The Heart of Christmas'
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James gives a biblical perspective on Christmas
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Richard continues his topic of friendship
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Richard uses Proverbs to talk about the subject of Friendship
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The persecuted church teach us that discipleship a willingness to accept suffering for the sake of Christ.
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James uses Psalm 94 as the basis of this talk on God's discipline
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Richard's topic this week is 'Leadership'
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Colin continues his series on the Parables
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Vijay continues on the subject of priorities based on the book of Haggai. Disappointments threaten to upset our priorities. Vijay speaks about how we handle disappointments and guard our priorities.
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Brace yourselves - Richard is going to talk about s.e.x.
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James speaks from Colossians 14
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James continues his series on Colossians
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Richard continues his series on Proverbs. This week his topic is 'Work'
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