Agora Church: Recent Episodes
Agora Church
This Sunday we looked the first chapter of Hosea and looked at the parallels between Hosea and his wife, and God and us. Bible Reading: Hosea 1
This Sunday we explored the Contemplative Pathway, the practice of meeting God through stillness, intimacy, and quiet attentiveness.
Bible reading: Luke 10:38-42
In this episode, Elyse Wallace explores Matthew 7’s teachings on judgment, humility, and grace—sharing personal stories and practical steps for self-examination, persistent prayer, and living the Golden Rule. Tune in for honest reflection, encouragement to water your own spiritual lawn, and ways to extend mercy in everyday relationships.
This Sunday we had a deeper dive into what Jesus meant on "Our Daily Bread" and how to properly pray according to the bible.
Well, we managed to get through the first two words of the Lord's Prayer last week. It was an important foundation for this week, when we looked at the next three words; "Hallowed be Your Name". What does hallow mean? It’s an old word we never hear in everyday English but it's still in our Bibles because it's a very important word and there's no modern equivalent for it.
Like me, you have probably heard sermons on the Lord's Prayer before.
The ones I've heard seem to offer advice on how we can become more motivated towards prayer.
But rather than raising the level of motivation they have, for me, only raised the level of guilt without changing my motivation one little bit.
Has that been your experience too? Let's look at fixing that.
Matthew 6:5-13
The Finale First: A Sneak Peek at the Stakes this week, we did something a little different. We fast-forwarded to the end of the Sermon on the Mount to see where this journey is taking us. We dive deeper into the "how-to" of Jesus’ teaching, we’re looking at the outcomes He promises in Matthew 7: the Two Roads, the Two Trees, and the Two Foundations. we saw the finish line now, so we could better orient our hearts to understand why the radical ethics of the Kingdom aren’t just suggestions, they are the blueprints for a life that stands firm.
This Sunday’s message explored the traditionalist pathway and how God can meet us through patterns and practices that reorder our days around His presence. We draw on Romans 12, we reflect on tradition not as empty ritual, but as a living way of worship that shapes our loves, forms our lives, and helps us walk more faithfully in the way of Jesus.
God is making great changes at Agora because He wants to bless us and use us, individually as well as a Church family.
But change always comes with disruption to the existing way of doing things. Think new cloth and new wineskins (Matthew 9:16-17). And Gideons army of 300 (Judges 7).
It's all about God getting the glory and our faith in Him increasing.
So what do we do? How we respond?
By drawing near to Him. How?
By boldly reminding Him that when we do draw near, He promises to draw near to us (James 4:8). And reminding Him of His promise to build His church so that even the gates of hell can not hold Him/us back (Matthew 16:18).
We moved into the next verses in the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus tells his followers that they are the Salt and light of the world. Not salt and light in the world, but the source of the world’s saltiness and light. We unpacked these verses this Sunday and considered not only what it meant for us today but also look back at some of the surprising ways salty Christians have changed the world – changes we still benefit from.
we finish our dive into the Beatitudes with Jesus's words about peacemakers and persecution (Matthew 5:9-12).
Blessed for being persecuted? Can that be right? Surely this is a misprint or some metaphor for something far less unpleasant! Persecution is so far away from where we live as Christians in safe NZ (especially if we hide our light under a basket).
According to 2025/2026 World Watch List, 1 in 7 Christians worldwide, approximately 365–388 million of our brothers and sisters experience "high to extreme levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith. Even unto death."
So join us on Sunday as we look into this and learn how it is that God's people can face and deal with persecution, while even saying they are blessed for doing so.
We continued going through the Sermon on the Mount and learn more about the kind of life that reflects the Kingdom of God. We looked at the characteristics of 'Mercy' and what it means to be 'Pure in Heart'. These two statements from Jesus reach straight into the core of who we are, how we treat others and how we see God.
This week, we’ll begin exploring Sacred Pathways, a framework developed by Gary Thomas that reminds us God has created each of us to connect with Him in different, meaningful ways. Just as branches grow uniquely while sharing the same vine, our spiritual lives are shaped by the way God designed us to love Him. Abiding isn’t about copying someone else’s spiritual habits—it’s about discovering how you most naturally stay connected to Christ.
link:
Sacred Pathways - Session 1: The Journey of the Soul - Sacred Pathways (Gary Thomas) - Study Gateway
we continue our journey through the Beatitudes by exploring Matthew 5:5–6, the third and fourth blessings Jesus shares.
Join us as we investigate the opening lines of the Sermon on the Mount. We’ll be tracing the concept of the "Blessed" from the Old Testament through to the mountainside in Galilee to see how Jesus’ message was both deeply rooted and shockingly new.
Whether you feel "poor in spirit" or find yourself in a season of mourning, come and discover why Jesus calls these very states the gateway to His comfort and kingdom
Graham will share a bit about what is in store for Agora in 2026 and introduce a new teaching series on the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew Ch 5-7).
we look at the third gift of the Wisemen, Myrrh, and we also look at what some commentators call the fourth gift - a gift that is even more important than the Wisemen's treasures and so easy to overlook, as we get caught up in the busyness of the season.
Gifts of the Wisemen - frankincense
Jesus is our perfect high priest appointed forever, who is able to deal with whatever you facing - even oppression of the evil one
Why would you give a child a huge gift of Gold?
Seriously, when you think about it that is not every kids dream Christmas gift. So why do the Magi give the child Jesus this significant gift? You know God is saying something very profound in the three gifts. We will be thinking about the implications of the gift of gold from the Magi. Scary question to consider - if it is a gift to a king, then what does that mean? For me? Is Jesus truly my king? Hmmmmmm.
In our final message of Discipleship According to Paul, we’ll uncover Paul’s powerful last words from a Roman prison his urgent call for Timothy to stand strong in God’s grace and carry forward the mission that meant more to him than life itself. Together, we explored how a simple, intentional chain of discipleship one person investing in another can multiply into a movement of transformed lives. And we looked at Paul’s vivid images of the soldier, the athlete, and the farmer to understand what it truly means to follow Jesus with focus, faithfulness, and perseverance in a world full of distractions.
Key verse: 1 Corinthians 11:1
Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ.
The idea of being, an example or a model is key to understanding the ministry of both Paul and Jesus.
On Sunday we will look at the key components of the ministry of Paul and of Jesus. As we have been tasked to make disciples we need to clearly identify exactly what that means. What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus.
If I am to be a disciple and to make disciples what is the expectation on me.
As disciples of Christ, Paul calls us in Rom 12, to not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by the renewal of our minds so we might know what God’s will is. this Sunday, we considered how are our minds are renewed, and what we should fill them with? You might find that the answer is much broader than you thought.
Unity is elusive. It is uncommon in much of the world and, unfortunately, also among Christians. Why do we have so many denominations? Perhaps it is because we all think that we are right. Jesus' prayer for us (John 17:20-21) was: I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.
we explore from Philippians chapter two what it means to live with Christ's humility and mind-set.
This chapter has been described as the high mountain top of Paul's explanation of exactly what Christ has done for us and what that therefore means for us as 'Christ followers'. I doubt anybody could argue with that assertion, so please try and read through Philippians chapter two before Sunday if you can, and let's dig in together on Sunday and climb that mountain.
we're launching a brand new series: Discipleship According to Paul!
We'll start by taking a quick look back at our journey this year, then look at Jesus's discipleship method and how they were adapted by Paul for the early church.
This message will set the stage for the rest of the series as we explore what Paul's epistles teach us about following Jesus in our modern world.
Don't miss this essential start!
we had the final part of our two-part series titled 'Living as a Witness - What do we do with the Gospel'.
This series aims to clear up a good deal of misunderstanding about what being a 'witness' really means and offers insight into to why we can find it so difficult. It's important we deal with this because it's one of the major themes of the Bible and has been a major influence on the development of western civilisation throughout history. So, this Sunday we will look at what all this means to us as individual believers in our place and time.
This Sunday we start a two week mini-series entitled 'Living as a Witness - What do we do with the Gospel'.
There is a good deal of misunderstanding and apprehension about what 'witness' means, and it is very important we clear this up because it's one of the major themes of the Bible. Plus, it has always been super important to God. (And if it's important to God it must be important to us, right?)
In his concluding words, Paul underscores the significance of boasting solely in the cross of Christ, rather than in human achievements or through practicing the Law. He draws a distinction between his own experiences of suffering for the Gospel and the intentions of those false teachers who advocate for circumcision to avoid hardship. The core message serves as a reminder that genuine salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone, resulting in a new identity and a life that has been transformed.
This Sunday we are in Galatians 6:6-10 and we're nearing the end of our series. Here Paul writes about one of the great biblical themes of the Bible: How to be blessed by God, both in this life, and in the next. This was taught by Jesus, and Paul often reminds the people he writes to (including us) about this in case we have slipped a bit (as we tend to) and are in danger of losing our promised reward. He wants us to enjoy the full value of the eternal life Jesus has bought for us. More about this on Sunday.
Who is truly responsible for caring for those who are struggling in our church? In Galatians 6, Paul calls us to live out our freedom in Christ not in isolation, but through gently and humbly helping one another — especially when the weight of life or sin becomes too heavy to carry alone. Join us this Sunday as we unpack what it really means to share each other’s burdens with love, humility, and grace.
Last week, we began with the question: Are you truly free? This week, we take the next step. If freedom isn't what our culture often portrays (a life without limits), then what does it actually look like in our daily lives? The Apostle Paul doesn’t offer a new rulebook, but a picture of a life that is walking in the Spirit and produces fruit.
Are you free? This is a topic we looked into as we continue delving into Galatians. How did this question apply to Galatians, and how does it still apply to us today?
"Is my faith enough?" It's a question that can lead to anxiety, tempting us to take matters into our own hands—to add our own efforts to our faith, or even try to manufacture a spiritual outcome.
This isn't a new struggle. The early church in Galatia, after embracing the gospel, was being pressured to return to a life of rule-keeping. Paul combats this with a very Jewish style of argument: you don't need to become Jewish to follow Christ. Instead, "become like me."
That final phrase is the puzzle we'll be solving this Today.
Bible Passage: Gal 4:8-31
As we explore Galatians 3:15-25, we will examine the enduring significance of God's promise to Abraham. We will also consider why the Law, introduced later, did not invalidate that promise but instead served a vital, albeit temporary role. Ultimately, we will observe how Christ's arrival fulfilled that ancient promise, leading us into freedom and adoption through faith. This passage offers insights into the very bedrock of our salvation, hope, and our identity in Christ
The Bible can seem overwhelming like a whole lot of information and rules that seem to contradict each other, but it all boils down to understanding that almighty God wants an intimate relationship with the creatures He created and those lost and sinful creatures - you and me.
The scripture passage for this week begins with Paul describing how he opposed Peter to his face.
This is the Paul who elsewhere exhorts believers to put on kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. We should be forgiving one another and above all loving each other. So, was he right to rebuke Peter to his face? We’ll discover this week what was behind his strong reaction.
We continue our journey through Galatians. We'll be in Galatians 2:1-10, examining how the early apostles, despite their differences, united around the singular message of the Gospel. Come and hear what this means for us today as we seek unity in Christ.
we continue with our series, entitled 'The Good News of Grace.' We will look at the latter part of chapter one where we will see Paul talks about how the essential nature of subjective Grace is integral to objective Truth in a way perhaps that we have not fully understood. We need to understand this, both for ourselves and when sharing the Good News with others and we'll also look at some important tests he presents to ensure we are still living squarely in God's Gospel of Grace and have not slipped back like the Galatians had.
We start a new series in the letter to the Galatians, entitled 'The Good News of Grace'. This short letter had a major impact on Western Civilisation, and will also have a major impact on us, as we study it together over the next few weeks.
Join us as we dive in to find out more about our faith and God's grace, in one of the most influential books of the Bible.
This Sunday we reflected on the Practises of Discipleship that we have learnt about in recent weeks. For part of our time together we will be in small groups discussing some questions relating to these practises.
What is mediating on the Scripture, why is it important and how do we go about fitting it into our busy lives?
Today we will look at the one investment that cannot fail us, and how we can grow that investment through being generous with our possessions and our service. Oh and yes, our money (that's a possession too).
Unlike other investment seminars you do not have to pay to attend, and the returns have an absolute guarantee.
What does it really mean to be content? Contentment seems so counter-cultural in a world that is constantly challenging us to not be satisfied. This week we look at Psalm 23 and how David can teach us to find true contentment in God.
Is the Sabbath still relevant today? Why would God make a law about rest? This Sunday, Al has led us as we explore what the Sabbath is all about and why it might just be more important than we think. Join us as we unpack the purpose and promise of rest.
On the 11th of May in was Mother's Day, the church go hear people talk about their mother's
we take a look at fasting. Is it still for today? Or is it only for those crusty old Pharisees who Jesus wasn't too impressed with?
Willy will share through the video about how prayer and fasting has brought break-throughs in his ministry, and met many individual needs in Tonga. See Agora Youtube channel for this. Then Dan will help us understand more about what the Bible tells us about fasting. After that Graham will guide us to identify our greatest need, whether personal or ministry, and to bring it to the Cross of Jesus with a commitment to give up something we enjoy for one week. Thus our faith will be sharpened in a concrete and powerful way that draws us nearer to God.
Willy Florian from Tonga is back with us. If you remember him from last year you'll remember what a blessing and inspiration he is.
Easter! A time when we reflect on Christ's death on a horrible Cross, to overcome sin and the death we deserve. But what about his resurrection and ascension? In John 14:2-3 Jesus tells us he has gone ahead to prepare a place for us. And in John 16:7 he says he has to go away so he can send the Holy Spirit to be our Helper. Two things crucially important to the Christian.
Among all the values we hold as individuals and as a church, Jesus issues one supreme command to His followers: love others as He has loved us. We'll examine this defining mark of discipleship - how Christ-like love identifies us, distinguishes us, and authenticates our connection to Jesus.
Today we’ll explore one of Jesus’ most challenging invitations: “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” We’ll unpack this offer of discipleship and reflect on its cost. Does it have anything to do with willpower, as a disciplined life is often associated with it?
Bible reading: Luke 9:23-26
What does it mean to truly abide in Jesus? What kind of fruit does He desire from His vine, and what does it mean to be pruned?
Al leads us as we explore these questions together, diving into what it means to remain in Christ and bear lasting fruit. Join us as we grow deeper in faith and understanding!
Bible reading: John 15:1-8
We are now in a series of looking at Jesus and how He demonstrated discipleship, and what He taught about it. Jesus called people to follow Him many times in the Gospels and we are probably familiar with Him choosing, and then calling, His future apostles to discipleship.
But He also calls us to follow Him as we deal with a particular issue which is one the main things holding us back from a deeper and more satisfying walk with Jesus.
A couple of weeks ago we heard how God calls us into a saving relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ, and how he continues to call us into a closer relationship with Him every day. But what about service?
God has made each one of us with an individual 'shape' to fit into a unique place of service in His kingdom - rather like a jigsaw piece finds its place to complete the whole picture. Like a jigsaw, the picture is incomplete without every piece in its proper place. And like a jigsaw piece, we can be confused about where we fit, and perhaps feel we don't even have a place in the picture.
Scriptures: 1 Peter 2:9; 1 Corinthians 12:4-7
We will continue our series on “discipleship” and this Sunday, Sue Hanna, a missionary in Cambodia for the past 20 years, will speak to us about a simple three-word model that we can use as a model for discipleship in our individual lives and as a church.
There's a good deal of uncertainty and confusion around God's call on our lives. We tend to think of a calling in terms of a ministry or God telling us to do some job in the church. But it's much more basic and important than that.
Today we will look at God's calling into the special life he designed for us from before the beginning of time. It's a calling into community, service, and into ultimate satisfaction and joy. It's a calling to enter into Christ himself (a great mystery)! In other words, our calling is to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
Scripture: Mark 3:13-15 and John 17:5-9; 18-26
Why follow Jesus?...and when things turn to chaos in life what can we hold onto to keep on being his disciple?
We continue our series on Pictures of Discipleship as we listen in on some very important statements that Jesus makes to his disciples. Statements that provide us with reasons to follow him.
We hear so many different ideas of what discipleship is. (Some of them really put us off!) Why so many? And what's the real deal?
Once we see what the heart of discipleship is according to Jesus, we will understand why there are so many interpretations. Better yet, we will also see that discipleship is something to be wholeheartedly embraced as the means of peace, joy, and satisfaction in our lives that nothing else can compete with.
This year, we’re focusing on discipleship: what it looks like and how we can live it out together.
Al has kicking off our first series, Pictures of Discipleship, as we explore a vision of where we want to be by the end of the year.
Join us as we dive into thought-provoking discussions about what discipleship means, reflect on who has discipled us, and consider who we might be discipling.
Join us as one of the wise men from the Christmas story shares his extraordinary journey to Bethlehem. Hear the story through the eyes of a pagan seeker following a star to find a King.
Did you hear about the old shepherd who got fired because he never knew how many sheep he had? He kept falling asleep as he counted them.
Today we will meet the shepherds from the Christmas story. Unlike last Sunday's Innkeeper, these guys are real, and have a lot to teach us (so we wont be tempted to count sheep during the service).
We will be in Luke chapter 2, verses 8 to 21
This Sunday, we considered why Jesus was born into such poverty. When you think about it, why was there ‘no place for them…’ Luke 2:7? God can do anything, right? Why not have Jesus at least born in the house where we find him later as a child? Why ‘no place’? Why was there no midwife to help Mary? Why does Jesus have to sleep in a feed trough? What is God saying to us in all this?
We continue learning about The Kingdom of Heaven, and this time we learn that it is like The Parable about a Fishing Net.
As with other parables, the language in this parable is clear, concise and strong.
It's a parable found only in Matthew and returns to a similar theme of the parables of the treasure and the pearl, where you sell all - you do what it takes - to gain the kingdom.
On the day of judgement, when the true membership of God's kingdom is finally settled, the good will be separated from the bad. It is not for anyone to determine who are "the real Christians" - that task belongs to God. It's our task to be prepared.
Jesus taught in parables for good reason. We’ll be exploring two of His parables this Sunday, considering how we might see growth similar to what happens to a mustard seed, and yeast in dough, in our own lives and communities.
We live in a world which has both good and bad: kindness and evil, wheat and weeds. How should we live as Christians in this world? Can we show something of the "Kingdom of Heaven" where we live? On Sunday we look at these questions and our present role in the Kingdom.
We begin an exciting new series exploring the Kingdom of Heaven. We'll look at what Jesus meant when He proclaimed the Kingdom was near, and how this message might differ from what people of His time expected. As we delve into Matthew 4, we'll reflect on how our understanding today shapes our faith and discipleship.
We'll also explore the Parable of the Sower, which teaches us about how the Kingdom grows in our hearts depending on how we receive God's Word. Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the Gospel!
What does it mean to be intergenerational? The church is a family - a group of people together in relationship with God and in relationship with each other, doing life together. How do our rhythms and practices foster connections and relationships across the generations that help us all grow in faith?
Jonathan's exploits and his relationship with David, and with a weak and jealous father, reads like a novel. But his story from 3000 years ago is very relevant for us today. How? We will dig into that on Today.
We will be led by Jackie Millar, Prayer Coordinator for CCCNZ. She loves to champion prayer in churches across New Zealand and journey with churches to have strong and flourishing prayer cultures.
The book of 2nd Corinthians finishes with these words:
‘May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.’ (2 Cor 13:14). Notice those words, grace, love, fellowship.
Today we will exploring who is this God to whom we pray and how does this impact how we pray?
What rights do you believe you possess? Many would point to the right to life, good health, freedom, and the love and care of others. But what occurs when tragedy strikes, and those rights are taken away? We often find that these rights were just illusions. In that moment, how do we react? Do we feel hurt? Complain? Rebel? Get angry? Or do we place our trust in God?
When Joseph was left with nothing, he believed God had everything. He didn’t demand answers, but rather waited for God to work, trusting Him in the process
Nicodemus starts out as a complete sceptic about who Jesus is. However, by the end of the book of John he has become a generous sacrificial worshipper of Christ. What on earth happened in his life to change him like this, and so fast?
Barnabas is a man who is almost invisible throughout the book of Acts yet he is nicknamed as the 'Son of Encouragement' by the Apostles, a good man, full of the Holy Spirit.
A man about which very little is written, yet whose impact is immense. So lets put the spotlight on this character and follow his story.
We begin our new series on some of the minor Bible characters and the role they played in God's overall plan. Shelley is kick-starting this off with Miriam and the role she played across significant moments in the children of Israel's exodus to the Promised Land.
We will delve into Philippians 4:10-23, exploring how to find true contentment and fulfilment. We begin by challenging a materialistic perspective, looking beyond the surface to discover deeper emotions and spiritual truths. We'll discuss the importance of relationships — both within our community and in Christ — highlighting the strength and support they offer. Finally, we'll be reminded of our call to seek and be satisfied in Christ in all situations, embracing a life of faith and contentment. Join us for this enriching journey into the heart of Paul's message!
Paul has been sitting in jail for 4 1/2 years waiting for Nero, a cruel and mad Caesar, to decide his fate. And yet Paul is the happiest man in all Rome! How can that be? Is he mad too?
Today, we continue our series in Philippians, and look at joy (or rejoicing) in the Lord from chapter 3. What is it? Do I have it? Why does it matter? And how do I get it?
We open Phil 2: 12-18 we see Paul calling for unity amongst Philippian believers. This unity in brotherly love, and the way we care for each other and seek to put others before ourselves, should be attractive to our lost world.
In the first chapter of Philippians we find the Apostle Paul in chains awaiting a decision from an insane Caesar. Does he live or does he die a horrible death? You would expect Paul to be full of anxiety and fear but he's not. So what is Paul's attitude to this? What can we learn from him to help us get through life's hardships, and to prepare us for death's certainty one day?
C.S. Lewis never claimed to have coined the phrase, but he is often credited with referring to Christians as "little Christs." His point is that if we claim to follow Jesus, we should resemble him. Just as an apple tree produces apples and a sheep gives birth to little sheep, those who love God should not only resemble Him, but also produce what He produces - love. While it's easy to say that we love our neighbour, it can be challenging to put into practice, especially since people can be difficult to deal with at times. Today we will be discussing how to truly love our neighbour and whether that includes everyone, or if we are allowed to pick and choose.
This Sunday we continued our sermon series on loving God. We opened the word of God and asked, "How do we love God with all our soul?” We explored both the New and Old Testament and see how different people longed for God. As we reflect on scripture, we should see how much we yearn for the Lord in our lives.
We continue our series based on The Greatest Commandment (Luke 10:27) and take a look at loving God with all our strength.
We hear from Willy Florian who has seen many amazing answers to prayer as he leads a ministry in Tonga that uses radio to reach his people with the Gospel, and also runs village Bible studies and outreach in prison.
Today we'll be looking at what it means to love God with all of our heart. How does that look different to loving him with our mind, strength or soul? We sometimes say - or have heard it said - that we love someone with all of our hearts, which is so lovely, but what does that really mean?
It's also interesting to think about how we really feel about God commanding us to love Him with all our heart. How can our hearts respond in the right way when we are being commanded to love? These are a few of the questions we'll be considering.
Looking at the greatest commandment of all.
I'd guess most of us can quote this, but could we explain the difference between loving God with your mind and your heart for example? How do you love God with your strength, apart from serving Him somewhere? This is a great series to dig into. Who knows where God might lead you as you draw closer to Him.
People ask us to do things all the time and often an initial “Yes” can be an easy (even exciting) response to give. But what about a second, third or fourth request?
God too has called us to say “Yes” to him and that first “Yes” can be very liberating, but then we sometimes find it hard to continue to say “Yes” to God. We explored this dynamic on Sunday with Sue Hanna, Executive Founder of Flame Cambodia
If you’re part of the Agora community then chances are at some stage you have asked “Who is God and what is he like?” And if you know God, even a tiny bit, or want to, you’ve probably also wondered “So, what does God expect of ME??” These are two of life’s really big questions!! And every religion tries to answer them. But we have the Bible to give us the truth.
The last two chapters of the book of Micah reveal the answer to these questions really clearly. And what was true about God in Micah’s day is true today. So today we will dive in to Micah chapters 6 and 7 and explore what this means together.
If you haven’t noticed lately, the world seems to be trying to destroy itself faster and faster. So much disfunction, anxiety, wars, sickness and so on and so on and so on. We’re looking at the book of Micah again, and we will see a clear prophecy that things will get much better ….. one day. So, how are we meant to live in hope in the meantime. Yes, Jesus is coming back one day (hopefully very soon), but until then how do I thrive in Christ on this wild planet?
Have you ever read Micah? Perhaps you have a picture of a rugged, ragged individual with a long beard and a long flowing robe, leaning on a staff and shouting doom and gloom at Israel? Some of that might be right (the beard part anyway) but Micah and the other prophets are included in our Scriptures for at least one very important reason.
We will cover the first two chapters
This weekend is Easter. So, we celebrate both the death and resurrection of Jesus, even though I think we only understand a tiny aspect of what truly happened. If you were God, literally the creator and sustainer of all, would you die for humans? And, on rising from the dead, would you be keen to indwell them knowing your indwelling would be marred by the sin and disobedience? Such a huge reality to wrestle with.
Kia ora Agora,
Today, we are looking at one of the most well-known parts of the Bible: The Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6. Is Jesus literally saying, "this is the only way to pray," or is He giving us a guide? If it is only a guide or template, then why does Jesus not introduce it as such but literally says, "Pray like this" (Matt 6:9)? This is a powerful, humbling prayer that millions of Christians pray daily, yet I wonder how many of us grasp the deep, powerful meaning threaded throughout the prayer.
The first three gospels all have Jesus’ call to his disciples. 12 were called; they lived with him for three years and over that time they were shaped by His words and by his actions. Following Jesus meant leaving their home and their work and, in Peter’s case, his wife. This raises a question. What do we mean when we say that we follow Jesus? If we follow Jesus’ example and seek to disciple other people, should we invite them to come and live with us – as Jesus did? Or…
Kia ora,
Today we start a new series called 'Journeying with Jesus' which will lead us into Easter. First, we are thinking about the call of Jesus to people far from God and to people close to God. So, how does Jesus call people? Is it in a dramatic loud way to get their attention amid a crazy planet and wild society? Or is He more gentle and quiet as he speaks into the lives of people who need to hear his voice?
Kia ora Agora,
Today we continue our Dependence on the Father series. Change is usually hard. Often it is messy and difficult, and we can want things to go back to the way it was before. God calls us to be at peace in Him, to trust Him, and that He has us in all circumstances. But - when change is swirling around us it can feel anything but peaceful - how do we trust God and find peace in Him in those moments?
Kia ora Agora,
Today, we start a new series, 'Dependence on the Father', with a focus based on navigating through change - Isaiah 43:18-19. As a church, we are going through a season of change. As Christians, how do we find the faith we need to face major change? How do we not just get through it, but use change as a springboard to something much better than we have now?
Kia ora Agora,
Today, Al will bring a contemplative thought on God's other book, the book of nature, from Psalm 19. We will also hear from Shelley, who will take us to Psalm 34 where we find these phases:
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Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him.
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The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry.
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Our Father sees us and hears us always.
Kia ora Agora,
Today, we will be looking at Psalm 40 which reveals the ups and downs of life that David experienced, his desire to obey God and the reality of his sin. It also reminds us of God’s care for us and points us to Jesus.
This Sunday we enjoyed the privilege of worshiping God together and rejoicing in his goodness and faithfulness with the start of our Summer series which focuses on a favourite Psalm each week continues as we look at Psalm 91.
This Sunday we finish our Christmas series by looking at the announcement to the shepherds by the Angels. Why were the shepherds so excited by what the Angels said, and why did everyone they talked to become astonished?
At Christmas, the humble birth is the most beautiful picture: the setting, the people, the Word becoming flesh—the seeming simplicity intertwined with something far from simple.
It's humbling for us to think about that night and what it actually represented. God took it all, wrapped it up, and brought to life the most beautiful gift, bringing hope and restoration. He turned what seemed ordinary and unremarkable into something incredible and extraordinary. The lessons we can learn from that night are as relevant to us today as they were then, encouraging us to be open to giving what's in our hands. What can appear ordinary to us, in the hands of Jesus, could in fact bring the start of a miracle.
This week we were thinking about why Jesus needed to be born of a virgin. Would it have mattered if Joseph had been his real father? Couldn't the Holy Spirit 'anoint' him divine or something later on in his life? And also we think briefly about how amazing Mary is in this. So amazing!
Ka kite anoo
Kia ora Agora,
While God has a plan, He is not just some clock maker who created the earth and let it go. No, He is present, and He wants to have a relationship with us. So much so that this God, the one who created everything and holds it all together, was willing to become a man like us.
Today we will explore this wonderful mystery and celebrate the knowledge that we have a high priest who understands our struggles.
This week we are thinking about the truth that God has a plan for this wild planet. Things seem super chaotic at present, but God is over all the chaos.
Last week Craig brought out how the creation calls us into worship. That God, in Jesus has not only given life to our world, he preserves our world – He holds all things together and He was still doing so even when He was a little person in Mary’s womb or dying on the cross.
This week we were reminded about how throughout the Bible God repeats his promise to his people that he is with them through every situation they encounter. And that promise is true for us today! God made us for relationship with him and provides his presence to help, encourage and comfort us. How would your day look different today if you were to truly grasp this truth!?
Kia ora Agora,
Today we are looking at God as creator and will think about the diversity and beauty of God's creation. A 'simple' question - why did God create so much that we cannot see or understand?
Kia ora Agora,
We are starting our series leading up to Christmas. Woooooooo! We are working through the first eight posters in the windows of the auditorium.
Today we're looking at the mind-bending reality of the Trinity. Do the members of the Trinity have independent thought or not, considering they are of one essence?
Kia ora Agora,
Today we will finish off the 'Story of the Bible' series. We will look at the development of the church and some of the wild end-times truths we see in the Bible.
Kia ora Agora,
The Bible can seem like a book of many stories. We can be like little children playing with jigsaw pieces and not realising they're designed to fit together into one big, over-arching story. Until we see the picture on the lid! Pastor Craig has been showing us the lid.
Today we meet Jesus Christ in the unfolding story. Who is He? Why is He the glorious high point of biblical history and the crucial turning point of human history? Most importantly, who is He to you? Whatever your answer, could it ever be enough?
Kia ora Agora,
Today we will be carrying on looking at the 'story of the Bible'. We are going to look at the conquest of Israel and Judah and see that there are many similarities to some of the struggles we have as Christians today. The second half of the Old Testament in 30 minutes - can it be done?????
Last Sunday we looked at an overview of the whole Bible in just over 30 minutes. We discussed key themes of imago dei and therefore God's desire to be with His people.
This Sunday we looked at - Baptisms and the Exodus of Israel.
In my list of tricky subjects to combine this is way up there. But, when you look into the amazing story of plagues and frogs and darkness, the Passover, and the exodus of Israel from Egypt you will go 'Whoa! So many similarities' to baptism and the salvation Jesus offers.
Kia ora Agora,
Today we are beginning a new series looking at an overview of the Bible. First, we'll start with the easy task of summarising the entire Bible in 30 mins - ekk. An interesting exercise to do and find the core threads that weave their way through the Bible.
Kia Agora,
Today, we look at the life of David and how he learned to trust the Lord both when life was out of control and when circumstances turned in his favour and he had the power to influence the outcome.
This Sunday we finished James 5 and looked at the power of prayer. Is there ever a time in our life when we shouldn't pray? What things that we deal with are just too big for God and prayer?
Kia ora Agora,
How well do our actions mirror the faith that we proclaim?
This is a question we all struggle to answer well, and James doesn't mince words when he challenges believers to act in accordance with our faith.
In chapter 4 today, James continues to help us see the gaps in our lives and shows us how the Gospel is God's wisdom and provides the answer for us.
This Sunday is Father's day - wooooooo
Most of us have fathers but some of us had pretty rough fathers. This Sunday we talk a bit about this, and also celebrate fathers and have a great service together.
Kia ora Agora,
Today we are looking at chapter 2 of James - and I honestly think this is a 'hold on to your seats' chapter as James goes super hard on showing love to everyone and proving our faith is real through the lives we live. Whoa!
There is a video near the beginning (1:37) as an illustration, it is an old Toyota ad with Barry Crump. If you are interested in watching, the link is attached: Crumpy and Scotty 2nd Hilux Commercial - YouTube
This Sunday we started looking at the book of James. Such an amazing book of blunt calls to us on how to live as followers of Jesus. How do you thrive in life when you are hit by troubles or temptation
Book of James Summary: A Complete Animated Overview - YouTube
Kia ora Agora
Today we have two young lads being baptised! We will be talking about why baptism is so important and how it is not an extra option in our journeys as Christians.
Last week we were reminded that our true identity is found in who God made us to be. The world tries to pull us away from our God given identity and lead us to make wrong choices. But God can redeem our mistakes and even our wrong choices if we anchor ourselves in who we are in Christ.
This Sunday we considered how life can at times feel like we are constantly climbing a mountain range and it takes courage and strength to keep going. How do we look for, and find hope, in the crisis?
This Sunday we considered how well-meaning people we meet constantly ask us questions like: "What do you do?". "Where are you from?" "What are your plans after that?" Are there answers to these questions, or how we look or feel, is what define us? We explored why it's so important to know and hold onto the identity God has given us and not let that go when other pressures surround us, and we saw through an often skipped-over story in the Old Testament, that our true identity is found in who God has made us to be.
This Sunday, we will continue with the How to Thrive in Life series, but it will be a little different as we look at the topic of suicide awareness. We have the team from Scripture Union coming in to lead us through an excellent interactive service discussing how we can be better equipted to help someone struggling with this horrible burden.
As we continue in our series on How To Thrive In Life, today we will be looking at one of the biggest struggles that every single one of us has to deal with - the struggle of waiting. We wait for so many things in our lifetimes, and the last few years has brought this reality into our lives with a greater intensity as we have had to wait for things we had previously taken for granted: When was flour going to be available to buy again? When am I going to be able to visit my family/friends again? When will I ever be seen by the Doctor?
Waiting is an uncertainty in life that can stress us to the point of popping. So how can we learn to wait well? This is what we will be thinking about today - Waiting Well.
Kia ora Agora, We are in the middle of our sermon series How to Thrive in Life designed to help us face the struggles of life in light of the truths of scripture. Last time we focused on how we are so fully known by God, and how we are treasured and valued by Him despite what we might have done.
As Christ followers, our thriving in life depends on God being more than a concept that is fitted in alongside our existing beliefs and activities. He has to become our ultimate reality, overtaking all other aspects of who we are and what we do. Unless God is our ultimate reality, we can forget about a life of lasting peace, fulfilment, and joy. Today we look at what the Word shows us about this and see one of the main obstructions to thriving with the reality of God in our lives.
We will be looking at how we go through life picking up narratives about ourselves. Some of these can be positive, however it’s the negative narratives that seem to stick. These negative narratives can work to bring us down such that when we’re struggling, they become detrimental to our wellbeing. Today we want to look at these stories and put them to the test. We will open the word of God and challenge them to see if our worth is greater than what we tell ourselves.
This Sunday we discussed the heavy topic of Anxiety. How do you THRIVE in life when it feels like you could explode or pop at any point? Does the Bible say Anxiety is a part of life, is wrong, or even did Jesus experience Anxiety?
Kia ora Agora, We are starting a new series looking carefully at some of the struggles people are experiencing at present - anxiety, overwhelmed, waiting on God in struggle and so on. How do we thrive in life, when so many of us, and people around us, are finding life so hard?
Today we are beginning the podcast with an interview between Josephine and Ann, where Ann shares her empowering testimony, followed by the sermon on thriving in life.
Kia ora Agora, Last time was a wild look at Jonah chapter 3 where Jonah 'exits' his fish taxi and this time obeys God. God is so good and patient and always gives us second (and 50th) chances. Today it's Jonah chapter 4 where Jonah is very happy for God to show him love, but ticked when God shows that love to the Ninevites. I know we are never like that - or are we?
Jonah chapter three is a totally wild passage. Jonah is fresh from his excellent fish taxi and ready to preach to the most evil vile nation on the planet. Will Jonah obey this time? Will the Ninevites repent? Will God relent if they do.
Boom - action story!
Kia ora Agora.
This week as we look at Jonah Chapter 2 we find Jonah a bit “down in the mouth” to state the obvious.
However, it is one of the beautiful prayers of the Bible. In this chapter we find him dealing with his own failures. We find out what Jonah does to refocus his heart and mind in order that he can then do what he was originally asked to do. God shows mercy and demonstrates how He is the God of the second chances.
Today we are starting a new series studying through the book of Jonah.
Chapter one is such a funny part of the Bible as you have non-believing sailors worshipping God while Jonah - the prophet! - is running away from God in disobedience. I so can't wait to start digging into this book with you all.
It was mother's day this sunday - wooooooo
At Agora we want to honour all ladies who take on the essential role of mother, aunty, mentor, carer and supporter. So many of you are a mum to so many different people. You are most awesome.
This Sunday, Graham Carter is discussing the fascinating topic of mission - here and overseas. The importance of 'missions' to God's end times purpose is often underestimated. Jesus is building His church and He's looking for ordinary, fallible people like you and me to use to do it.
Eli preached the most excellent message last week on the humanity of Christ and looked at how Jesus helped people dealing with grief and emotion. So good! Catch it on this podcast or the video channel if you missed it.
This week we're looking at a key topic in the Bible, that may be a tiny bit controversial. Jesus did it regularly, God commands us to do it, and Paul and the other New Testament writers encourage us to do this all the time. You could read Matthew 16.13-18 for a clue...
Today we are looking at the humanity of Christ and how he experiences emotion and is able to empathise with us when we are troubled. Is it really ok to experience emotion, or is it more healthy to hide it all away and just get on with life? Does God meet us in our pain and hurt, or does he leave us to deal with it ourselves? John 11:17-35
We are looking at an overview of the book of Jeremiah and thinking about the reality that God has a plan and a purpose for each of us. The prophet Jeremiah is given such a hard life by God. How do we rise above the hardship of life, knowing God has us under his care?
The message is asking the ‘so what’ question. So, what that Jesus rose from the dead? So, what that we have a risen saviour of the world. So, what difference does all this resurrection truth have to do with my life today?
This is the last Sunday before Easter, so we are looking at one of the most powerful verses in the bible.
"For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." 2 Co 5:21. Amazing - 'for our sake' such a key truth to think on leading into Easter.
This Sunday, we have a guest speaker Graham, who is starting our Easter series. We begin by looking at the servant heart of Jesus and His unexpected love.
We were created for connection. Join us as we continue to explore what it means to grow in connection with God, with each other and with the world around us.
We were created for connection. Join us as we continue to explore what it means to grow in connection with God, with each other and with the world around us.
Our faith is not simply a solo journey to heaven. At salvation we were baptized into the Body of Christ; a new identity and purpose. It’s not longer about ME, its all about WE!
We were created for connection. Join us as we continue to explore what it means to grow in connection with God, with each other and with the world around us. Christian community is an essential part of our journey. This week we will explore connecting in with the local church and the important role that plays in encouraging our faith.
We were created for connection. Join us as we continue to explore what it means to grow in connection with God, with each other and with the world around us. Christian community is an essential part of our journey. This week we will explore connecting in with the local church and the important role that plays in encouraging our faith.
We were created for connection. Join us as we continue to explore what it means to grow in connection with God, with each other and with the world around us. Christian community is an essential part of our journey. This week we will explore connecting in with the local church and the important role that plays in encouraging our faith.
We were created for connection. Join us as we explore over the next three weeks what it means to grow in connection with God, with each other and with the world around us. This week we will explore connection with God specifically growing in prayer.
This week we are starting a new series on connection. I don't know about you, but in this world and in the culture surrounding us, connection can be hard to find. We were created by a triune God who Himself is a connected loving community so at the heart of all that we are is the need for connection. Join us as we explore over the next three weeks what it means to grow in connection with God, with each other and with the world around us.
This week is the Christmas Carol Service and the last part of our Advent series looking at 'God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen'This will be our last big church gathering for the year before the Church Online Summer Series starting Christmas Day.
This week we continue with our Advent series. This week we will be exploring “Come thou long expected Jesus” a hymn that draws us back into the place of the Israelites, hoping for God to send a king who would bring freedom, strength, and consolation.
Last week was the mid-point on our three-week journey through Phillipians 2:5-11
So far we have explored the dual nature of Jesus and what it means for us that he is both fully God and fully human.
In the last part of the series this week Craig will explore how these two ideas come together in the Lordship of Jesus.
"Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord" Philippians 2:9-11
Last week Craig began on a three-week journey through Philippians 2:5-11 beginning with a focus on Jesus' Divinity.
This week he will look at the humanity of Christ - was Jesus really a human or did he just look like one? Why does that even matter? How does knowing the humanity of Jesus impact our relationship with him today? Knowing and understanding the importance of who Jesus is influences much of the connection to and practice of our faith.
Over the next three Sundays Craig will be journeying with us through Phillipians 2:5-11 beginning this week with a focus on Jesus' Divinity.
What does the fact that Jesus really was God mean for us? How does this change the way we think about and relate to him... this is the first part of the picture as we begin to explore the nature of Jesus and how it impacts our faith.
This week we have Igor from Lyndon Frost from Te Awamutu Bible Chapel sharing with us!
Lyndon shared with us the 3 ways that we can imitate our Master when it comes to Evangelism
This week we have Igor from Living Stones sharing with us!
Title: 3 Habits that are going to maximise your wellbeing
Plenty of people say they want to make some changes in their life, but we need to realise that our aspirations to change are over-ridden by our habits.
Reflecting and Responding Last week, with Nehemiah overcoming the opposition to the wall building project the wall was finished – woohoo! That’s often where we finish telling the Nehemiah story – we love a happy ending. But we are actually only halfway through the book, and in reality, things rarely work out so neatly in the middle of life. So, this week we look at the book's final chapters with a focus on chapters 8 and 9 to discover that the key to faith through the messy stories in life is to focus on who God is!
This week we continue with our series on Nehemiah!
Side by Side - Nehemiah Chapter 3
When God calls us to do work down here for him and when there’s tough work going on in people's lives - what is it that helps us as we trust and rely on God for all that? Nehemiah’s wall-building project shows us that who you have by your side makes all the difference!
Christianity is a team thing - Me and God
In Nehemiah chapter 2, Nehemiah is very wise in his preparation and planning to build the city. But, he is also very careful to keep giving credit to God for all that he is doing. Christianity is always this balance of working wisely with God and seeing him working in and through us. Why do we too often get this out of balance?
Join us as we continue with our series on Nehemiah!
How do you know when to pray and when to act?
In Nehemiah chapter two, Nehemiah knows it is time to act. What he is going to do is literally life-threatening, so how does he know he shouldn’t stop and keep praying?
I think this is one of the most important questions we have as Christians - when should I pray, but when should I get up and act?
This week we pause in our series to celebrate all the father figures in our lives and of course the best Father of all!
Was Noah a good father, or just a guy that saved the planet?
We know Noah totally messed up later in life, but he did save the entire human race by obeying God and building a huge wild Ark. In doing all this, do you think he was a good father or just a good boat builder?
We’d love to see you on Sunday as we celebrate Fathers and look at Noah’s ‘Dadness’. Oh - and we’ll have a gret sausage sizzle after church cause you can't have fathers day without a good snarla!
This week we began our new series on the book of Nehemiah. We encourage you to take the time to read through the book as we journey together.
When it feels like your life is falling apart, or you have received horrible news, where do your heart and soul go? For Nehemiah, it leads him into an amazing prayer and dependence on God, but I know that is not always the case for us. I wonder why?
This week we have John Brennan on how we can outwork our lives as Christian in the context of work.
In a work world that is increasingly competitive and insecure, people often have nagging questions: Why am I doing this work? Why is it so hard? And is there anything I can do about it?
Join us this Sunday as we explore questions of purpose, values and the difficult choices that can often face us when pursuing a career.
This week we were joined by Phil Pawley from Sports Chaplaincy New Zealand.
This is a great organisation that is full of volunteers in sports communities providing free, accessible pastoral care, support and mentoring to athletes, staff official and their families.
This week we continue with our series Know What You Believe helping you to understand our Statement of Faith and what that means for the way we live. Join us as we explore what the Bible says about Creation, Humanity and Salvation.
Last week we started our new series on Know What You Believe, helping us to grow deeper in understanding our statement of faith with an exploration of theology about the Bible and the Trinity. I was captured with the image of the Trinity as a community of love making our ultimate reality social. In what ways have you been captured by the Trinity this week?
We are going through our statement of faith! This morning Chris leads us through the first part speaking primarily on the Trinity and the place this hold for us here at Agora Church.
How do you know Jesus really rose from the dead?
I've heard all sorts of wild theories over the years about the resurrection of Jesus. What about you? Maybe He revived in the tomb because he never really died? Maybe the disciples hid his body? A huge question though is what is the relevance of the resurrection to me now?
Does this phrase sound familiar? Maybe it's something you've been asked before - This week we will explore some of the differences and similarities between major world religions. What is the Hindu heaven? How can a Buddhist be ‘saved’? Is Christianity just another religion similar to all the others? Grow in confidence about how to explain the uniqueness of Christianity and what it offers
We will look at two more topics from our BIG questions series. All of the Heavens display the glory of God, how does creation help answer questions of God's existence and why is the ressurection such important evidence for faith?
Too often we evaluate who we are based on, what we see or think we know about ourselves. In this message we are looking at who God says we are and who He calls us to be.
Such a huge and important question and one many people struggle with.
This Sunday we are starting a new series called ‘Exploring the BIG questions about faith’.
There are questions in life that are so big we feel we may never have the answers. The question of why a good God allows evil and suffering is one of those. I don't claim to have all the answers but I invite you to join us as we journey through the Bible to see what it says on the matter.
In Acts 27 - Paul says 'I belong to God'.
Such a powerful phrase when you wander through the Bible looking at what it means to 'belong to God'. What do you understand this phrase to mean? What does it say about who you are?
What Causes a murderer to become a saint?
I’m sure you know the story of Acts 9 well - Saul is confronted by Jesus and his whole life changes. Such an amazing story we’ll look at this Sunday. What about you though - how has your encounter with Jesus changed you?
The book of Acts & Mothers Day
What do these two things have in common? Join us as we explore what the book of Acts has to teach up about the women in our community.
Speeding tickets are the worst!
They are the worst, but they are always totally justified. When you get a ticket and the police show you the read out on the speed camera you can't argue. You may be ticked at them, you may be mad at your self, but you have to agree they are right. You broke the law, so now you have to give up some of your lovely money.
The story of Easter is the complete opposite of this. We 'break the law' and God pays the fine himself.
How not to be awkward, when talking about Jesus.
Over the last four weeks, we have been looking at why we should look outward and share our faith. Today we are starting a new series looking at the 'how' of sharing our faith.
It is awesome to be praying for people and doing good for them, but when you have an opportunity to give a reason for your faith - are you ready?
This new series is super practical, and today we are considering how to share our personal story of coming to know Jesus.
How much love do I need to tell people about Jesus? On almost every page of the Bible, there is the message of God’s love for humanity and that’s before we look at the life of Jesus! While Jesus was on earth we continually read ‘he was moved with compassion.' As amazing as it sounds, God really does love all humans! I guess technically you can share the facts about Jesus without love – but is the truth without love the truth that God calls us to share? This Sunday we looked at the place of compassion in reaching out.
Is a relationship with Jesus boring? I sometimes talk with people who feel that this whole Christian thing is now boring for them. It feels like a list of rules to do and not do, church I ‘should’ attend and so on. Yet - when we pray, we call out to the creator of all who can do anything in and through us, calm a storm, move a mountain, stop the sun. Maybe they have stopped daring to believe God for the impossible, and have settled for something much less than Christianity? On Sunday we are looking at the power of prayer in reaching out.
This week we are continuing with part two of a four-part series discussing where God might be leading Agora Church in 2022. Join us as we explore Romans 1:16 and discover the awesome power of the gospel in transforming our lives, our communities and our nation.
God's will or my will?
It should be an easy question, right? But how do we know if we are following God's will or our own ambitions? How much guidance should we expect?
I think it is always tough figuring out God's will for my life. I often look for the exact direction or position He wants to lead me in, while I think sometimes God is more general than that.
If that is how confusing it can be personally, imagine how hard it is figuring out God's will for a church - whoa!
Starting this Sunday we are in our four part series discussing where God might be leading Agora Church in 2022.
If you are walking and you trip or skid or something, you instinctively reach out and grab anything nearby - a rail, a branch, a person - anything!
Yet, sometimes when we know God is calling us to something, we hesitate. We know we should reach out and trust Him, but so often we don't.
Advent is a call to worship the God who came. Jesus is the God who came and made his dwelling among us. This Sunday we explored this Jesus that we are called to worship, who is called to worship him and how that should change everything about us, both at this time of year and every other day too.
So often in life, we allow our past or our current situation to define us, and even limit what we think we are capable of doing.
Think of where Jesus was born, and where He spent His first night. Do you think God allows our past to define us?
This is a phrase we say all the time, 'Jesus is the hope of the world', especially around Christmas time. But, what does this actually mean? And, if it is true - hmmmm - how do I and my friends and family access this hope because it feels like the world is pretty hopeless at present.
This sermon has nothing to do with the nasty song by Haddaway from the 80s - do not youtube it! We’re working through the book of Philippians for the next 4 weeks, and a key theme in the book is love. But what kind of love? The 'I love Pizza' kind of love, 'I love the gym' kind of love, or 'I love dogs' kind of love? What Paul has to say is WAAAAY more grunty and encouraging than even loving pizza!
Have you ever been accused of being someone you're not? It's one of the devil's go-to tricks. But you're not who he says you are. You're who God says you are. Celebrate that with us as we wrap up this amazing message series.
This is the last and third message for this series but you can view the previous sermons on our youtube channel. Just follow these links:
Week one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGaEGqRXK8A&ab_channel=AgoraChurch
Week two: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjEe7nqhmE0&ab_channel=AgoraChurch
Whose timing is better - mine or God's?
Ha - If you are like me you get kind of frustrated with God's timing. We know His timing is good, but occasionally He just seems to move a bit slow for some of us.
Today we're looking at a super exciting part of the book of Esther where God's timing is so perfect it is almost unbelievable...or is it?
Last Sunday we found Mordecai and Esther in danger and with a lot to fear. In chapter 5 we see the hand of God at clearly at work. Esther takes chances and things start to turn around. Keep reading through the chapters on your bookmarks to prepare for what happens next.
Fight, flight, or freeze?
We pick up the story in Esther 4 with Mordecai and Esther in danger and with a lot to fear. They each have a different response. Life often takes unexpected turns and when troubles come and fear rises, what's your natural response? Do you fight, run, or just freeze not knowing what to do? In those times how can you find the courage to step forward and be part of God's bigger plans?
Have you ever yelled this - either just in your head, or out loud to the universe? Sometimes it so feels like God has forgotten about us when we are in a hard or difficult place feeling totally overwhelmed, lost or confused. Is God on vacation or just having a good sleep in and has actually forgotten about you? Or is something much deeper and more powerful happening.
What is God's love dependent on?
Humans are pretty fickle. We seem to fall in and out of love - or at least in and out of 'like' - with people all the time. Is God like this? Does He love us more when we are being 'good' and less when we are being bad?
We are starting a 6 week series looking at the book of Esther today, and in there we see a clear message about God's love.
Some of us love to care for others, while some of us - ha - just don’t. The story of the good Samaritan (Luke 10) is a great example of the gift of Mercy. To care for someone suffering so deeply and completely, shows the love of Jesus through the beautiful gift of Mercy.
I’ve spent the week digging into 1 Corinthians 14 and the gifts of tongues and the interpretation of tongues. I have found this hard study to do as although Paul is very clear in this chapter, it is very counter cultural to who we are as a church at present. On Sunday I simply unpacked this chapter and discussing what these gifts mean as Paul has explained them. Whoa.
When did you last see the mighty power of God?
I know our relationship with Christ is based on faith, but sometimes we need to see the clear mighty power of God displayed. A mighty power that we cannot dismiss or explain away. A mighty power that will greatly strengthen our faith.
If you love to start new ministries that bless people, love encouraging people and building them up (especially leaders), and if you love to teach people how to follow Jesus more deeply, you might have the gift of Apostleship.
I know it sounds wild, but we are ALL invited to be God’s hands and feet in the world. God has gifted us in diverse and creative ways. He loves Christians to enjoy each others gifts and invites us to work together. Christian life in action is about the “WE”, not the me! Firstly the "WE" is God in us, secondly the "WE" is Christians working and encouraging each other.
What would you rather be? Knowledgeable, wise, or discerning?
Well, I have good news and bad news. The good news is the Holy Spirit distributes these gifts to people in the church as He sees the need. It is amazing that He may give one of these gifts to bless the other awesome people in your community. Yah! The bad news is -ha- there is no bad news, as these gifts are amazingly powerful.
Jesus said that He came to give life to the full, some translations use the word 'abundance'... I get the full bit but not so much the abundance, and I don't think my definition of 'full' is what He was promising.
Our calendars are jam packed, our schedules are full, but my soul can often feel empty. Something is wrong with this reality, but what?
We are going to talk about 'life with God' and discuss some of the things that get in the way of that.
Single or Married. The point is how can I best serve God? The church over the last few hundred years has almost implied you have to be married with kids to be a real Christian. Last time I checked, Jesus wasn’t married. Oh, and neither was Paul when he was racing around planting churches and writing the Bible. What does the Bible say about being single? Is it ok, is it awesome, or does it all depend on the calling God has on your life...
This week’s gift has a title that may not belong to you. However, maybe just maybe it is something that you could be doing and being much more aware of. We need more of these people in the world and in our church. Jesus is the ultimate.
All of us have a mother. Some of us have the most amazing mother ever, some of us have a mum who did the best she could given the situation she was in. On Sunday we wanted to celebrate the awesome mothers and mother figures in our lives.
We've all heard the saying "it's better to give than to receive." For some people, it's not just "better" it's the best thing ever! The gift we will be exploring this week is like paying it forward. It's like being a funnel through which God's blessing and resources flow to those in need and to accomplish His work - the more the better! But spotting those with this gift is hard to do ... they love to live in the shadows and keep their gift a secret.
This Sunday we are taking a look at the deeply needed and often neglected gift of voluntary poverty. Yup, you read that correctly! So join us as we unpack this gift, discover its purpose and why God would call this a gift in the first place.
I can't even drive a boat, let alone a ship! I've watched lots of videos on youtube where someone piloting a ship has messed up and another ship is taken out or the wharf or a crane or something. Sad - but hilarious.
The spiritual gift we are looking at is closely linked with the idea of piloting a ship, especially when things are somewhat chaotic.
Any idea which gift it is?
One of the most frustrating things about mobile phones is that they seem to still drop connection every now and then. You think you are talking to someone - then - silence. "Can you hear me now?" But God never drops connection - YAY!!!!!!!!!!! Sometimes though, it is hard to hear him, which is why someone coming to you with a message they believe is from God can be incredibly encouraging and uplifting. On Sunday we talked about the gift of prophecy - such an exciting gift.
This Sunday we will be having a special time to connect to God through the celebration of Easter and what Jesus did for us over 2000 years ago.
What goes around comes around
Many of the spiritual gifts are made to be given away… and this week’s one is a gift that is given to someone and then, when it is successful, is given back! What goes around comes around with this gift. Some of the gifts we should all be using, at least a bit, and this is one of those - so there is something to learn for everyone in this gift.
Listen and explore how the words we use as we come alongside others can help them to be all God wants them to be, and how we can grow more effective at that.
Can you imagine a world without google search or "Hey Siri"? What about flicking through the news headlines and coming across a major article about a world leader who no one knows? It would be a strange day for both wouldn't it. We live in an age obsessed with information and celebrity.
This week we are unpacking the spiritual gifts of teaching and leadership, both being pretty hot topics. Do these spiritual gifts look any different to what we see around us and if I have them what could that look like?
This Sunday we explored these a little in community, asked some questions, dug into God's word and listened to what Jesus has to say.
Christian Baptism: What does it mean?
Baptism is an external symbol of what happened internally when a person believes in Jesus.
2 Corinthians/Corintios 5.17-18
This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ.
When you hear someone say, 'Hey, I've invited so and so for dinner tonight.' What is your instant reaction - 'woooo' or 'aaagghhhh'?
Some people are so called by God to show hospitality to others, it is something they love to do. While for others it is almost terrifying - stress of cleaning and cooking and possible judgement and .... So, how do you know if this is a gift you have - or should have?
This week Craig continues on through our spiritual gifts series, and tells us that: Along with all of humanity we are gifted life itself, that we are offered the gift of eternal life, and finally that we are gifted by the Holy Spirit with gifts to be a gift to others.
Society loves to lift up those who are considered important, and to sideline those who they consider of little or no importance. Even this ‘importance’ changes as the loves and likes of society change. In 1 Corinthians 12, the Bible almost YELLS that this is not to be the way in the church. There is no ‘more or less important’. We are ONE equally loved and anointed crazy messed up group called and gifted by God.
Craig brings us the end of the intro into Spiritual Gifts, today he talked on: Knowledge and Wisdom. How that, the gifts that we are given by God are good and are there to build others within the church not to just build yourself up, and unless they are done in love they are a total waste of time.
Society is fascinated with leadership! It brings out the best in some and the worst in others... So, what's the deal and does Jesus and His Kingdom have anything to say on the matter?
We are unpacking the spiritual gift of leadership and taking a look at an unlikely leader in the Bible and how Jesus journeys with them.
Maybe if you gave me a digger and like 50 years I could dent the mountain ... maybe? Haha - probably not to be honest.
Jesus said even if we have tiny faith we would do amazing things in His name. How come some people have incredible faith in God, while others kind of have a 'sort of' faith in God? Is it how strong I am, or how strong someone else is?
Please note: There were two videos in the sermon, however we were not able to share them on the podcast. Thanks for understanding!
There are some folks who seem to be super helpful - right? They see needs that most of us just walk past and totally miss. On Sunday we started a new series looking at spiritual gifts and how the Spirit empowers people to serve the body of Christ and beyond. What spiritual gift(s) has the Spirit given to you?
When Jesus was born there was no room for this helpless babe. His birth made Him completely vulnerable to the human experience, but I don't think anyone could have fathomed the fact that His arrival was Him preparing us room. On Sunday we explored this, get into the nativity story and wonder at what God has done in showing up as one of us.
Many Christians would say they rarely, or never, hear the voice of God. Is that ok? Is that normal? Find out more on this Sunday.
Philippians 2.6-8
Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God
as something to cling to.
Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.
When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.
This week Dave begins our journey into the Christmas time of Hope, and that there is hope in a God who often reveals Himself and wants to meet with us in the unexpected, the little and the ordinary.
In the story of Ruth and Boaz, there is a whole lot of anxious excitement in the last chapter.
Will Boaz get this ‘la bomba’ Ruth?
Will this random guy with no name end up marrying Ruth instead?
Will Naomi end the story bitter and empty?
In Ruth chapter four you see God do something pretty awesome - but when you look beyond the simple story you see a something that makes you go ‘Whoa. No Way’
Some people would say it is super hard. It's like you have to figure out God's secret plan. Pastor Dave would say his cat has figured out the secret to blessing - he explained this so well last Sunday. Although, it wasn't so much God's blessing for his cat.
So, what would you say - easy? Hard? Depends?
This week in Chapter 2 of Ruth, Dave brings to light how Ruth continues to serve for her mother in law as she becomes a foreigner in a new land.
Naomi is the focus of Ruth Chapter 1 and in many ways the book of Ruth is actually Naomi’s story. Naomi sometimes gets a bad rep as a bitter old woman because of the name she gives herself. If we dig a little deeper we find Naomi was a woman of faith with a generous spirit, and we can learn a lot from how she navigated loss, family, and friendship, as she journeys to the place of hope and provision that God has for her.
According to the all knowing Google and Guinness World records, around 7 billion Bibles have been sold.
This is about 6 billion more than the next book. Surely, this can't be a reliable statistic and someone messed with the numbers? The Bible couldn't have outsold all other books, in the past and currently, by such a huge margin? Unless it is what it claims to be - the Word of God. Whoa!
So, If God knows what I’ll pray before I pray, then why pray? If God knows everything, and if God is outside of time so knows exactly what is going to happen, isn’t prayer a waste of time? I guess the key question then is simply ‘does prayer actually do anything’?
Hmmmmm - listen on as we try and figure this one out!
Is Baptism the weirdest thing Christians do?
Unless you understand what baptism is all about, you’d have to think it is one of the weirdest things we do as Christians. Someone is kind of pushed under the water and when they rise back up everyone is all excited and cheers - that is pretty weird.
Or is it? Christianity is quite symbolic and when you understand what baptism symbolizes you see that it is not weird at all, but completely and totally mind-blowingly awesome!
What makes Satan run away?
The Bible talks of Satan as a real spiritual being who would like nothing better than to destroy Christians. If that is the case, and he is really out to get us, is there anything we can do to stop him? Totally! Last time I checked Jesus can make satan run away - but can we make him run away too?
Two is better than one, usually.
Unless it is something nasty, two is always better than one - right. Two pizza, two chocolate mousse, two friends, two unicycles. But that would be a bike???
Anyway- having Jesus watching over us is totally awesome, but in the passage we looked at on Sunday we see that Jesus teams up with someone totally awesome and then they double-team us in care, protection, provision and blessing!
Can I hear an Amen? (said in a Texas accent)
Jesus says ‘I AM the vine’ and we are branches, and that we should abide in him. What does he mean by abide? What does he mean that you and I are a branch? So many questions!
(Important note - this I AM statement is pretty much the key to the entire Christian journey! Whoa!)
It's REALLY hard to know who and what to believe these days. Who has the truth? Who should you trust? What’s the payoff?
This Sunday we are looking at Jesus’ statement in John 6: “I AM the bread of life.” What a weird thing for Jesus to compare himself to… bread! And then he tells those following him to do something that sounds crazy. Jesus makes some big claims and we have two choices – believe him… or not. Find out on Sunday the amazing offer for those who believe.
When was the last time you stole something? Hopefully you read that and went "woah, no way, never….." You can usually only steal something when no one is watching - right? (at least that’s what I’ve heard - ha)
This Sunday we are looking at Jesus statement - ‘I AM the gate’ in John 10. This statement has so much meaning and depth it is wild! One aspect is that he is the one who protects us - he is always watching over us in love - always. No one sneaks past Jesus to try and steal us when he is on the job - Which is always!
When was the last time you had a power cut at night? One minute everything is light and you can see things and people fine, and the next minute - boom- total darkness. You kind of have to freeze for a moment to figure out what just happened.
On Sunday we looked at the amazing statement of Jesus ‘I AM the light of the world’. Does this just refer to when he made blind people see, or is there something way more amazing going on? To find out, join us this Sunday with part 3 of our "I AM" series.
This week we are looking at Jesus' words in John 11 about being the resurrection and life. But what does that even mean? As followers of Jesus how do these words apply when we are alive? Are these just hopeful words about the future or is there a reality in them that we can experience today?
It is wild to see how many different 'Jesus' there are on the planet.
For some people, Jesus is a revolutionary overthrowing a corrupt government. For some people, Jesus is a meek and mild child they call out out only when things are going wrong. For others, Jesus is only myth from an ancient time.
Who do you say Jesus is?
And how can you be sure this is who Jesus claimed to be, and not simply a reflection of your own beliefs, feelings, likes and dislikes.
Peter has a few things to say to slaves, but his words are suprising. Rather than telling them to rise up and rebel against the injustice, he requires them to respect and honour their masters.
This Sunday, speaker Nathan Martin will unpack why Peter gives this strange advice to slaves and learn what it means for our lives today.
On the final Sunday in our series on Joseph we look at the theme of radical forgiveness and how after 40 years we see reconciliation and healing between whaanau.
Is wisdom something some people get and others don't? This Sunday in Genesis 44 we see that Joseph is pretty wise... Is that just him, or has God being at work?
How do we maintain a consistent faith that endures through both the hard and the good times?
This week we continue in our journey with Joseph and find just how he honours God in times of Fame and Surplus.
God's timing is often wild. It is good, but it is wild.
Often we have no idea what God is preparing us for. He always has plans for us , things he wants to fulfill in us, and giftings, callings and passions he wants to work out in us. Yet so often the timing of what he is doing at a particular moment can be so confusing.
Although obviously I don’t know for sure, I do think Joseph would agree that Gods timing is wild - His timing is good, but it is wild
This week, Craig continues on the story and life of Joseph (Gen 39), through Joseph's rollercoaster ride of a life we see that he holds firm in God and does not allow the temptations of his circumstances over come his desire to trust in God's plan.
If you are like most people, there are days when you wake up and the last thing you feel like doing is praising God. You have chores to do, whaanau to sort and hang out with, and a looming pile of work or study teetering on a fast-approaching horizon.
So why praise God? On Sunday we pulled Psalm 33 apart and you will see in there some amazing reasons why praising God is not just a good idea, it is life-changingly essential.
This extended conversation between Jeremy & Dave is a continuation from last Sunday's message about the effects this lockdown period can be having on us. In it they cover some of the ways in which this can present itself physiologically, mentally, spiritually and socially. As individuals we all are experiencing these uncertain times in some way and as Jesus followers we want to pay attention to what is going on within us and what are some ways we can journey this with God.
I know that is not great grammar, but when we unpack Psalm 139 on Sunday you will totally understand what I am trying to say there.
This has to be one of the most well known and loved Psalms ever. But how can this make sense when it looks like David wants to run away and hide from God in the middle of it? Maybe the reality that God can totally read our minds has something to do with it. Is that totally scary, or totally reassuring? Hmmm?
Kia ora whaanau
This Sunday is Resurrection Sunday and we would love for you to join us as we celebrate the victory Jesus has won. It will be a time or worship and encouragement and we are excited about how God will speak to us.
If you are like a lot of people as soon as you hear the word 'outreach' you break out in a cold sweat.
On Sunday though I'm talking about how simply telling someone of the hope Jesus has given me is totally easy. The key is it's not so much the words you use, but the life you live. Ka kite anoo
How on earth can I be generous in 'lockdown'? Wow - these are some crazy and scary times. If someone told you a month ago that Aotearoa would be in almost total lockdown, you would have laughed, cried, or maybe ran away.
This Sunday we are looking at the fifth marker of maturity - Joyful Generosity. Is it really possible to be generous during this wild time, or is it better to just lock everything down and hold on.
Community is something as individuals we all need and engage in in various ways. From church, to sports teams, to craft groups and the many different clubs, we love to connect!
But why are we drawn to be with other people? As Christians we believe that community is an expression of God's heart and how he has designed us. This Sunday we are going to be looking at consistent community in our series "Markers of Maturity" and the role it plays in taking us deeper with Jesus and growing our faith.
So join us as we lean in to God by practicing community. It won't be the same without you!
This week, Tina came and spoke on three verses. In this she showed that the Bible gives direction, is all about Jesus and is life changing. And when we read our Bible that we need to actually see what is says, what it means and what can I do with it?
How do I really live like Jesus? When I take my dog for a walk, she is always watching me. If I stop, she stops and watches me, waiting to see what I do next. Even when I just go and get her lead she goes a bit wild knowing she is about to hang out with me!
This is how I want to be with Jesus. Watching and waiting on Him and looking to see where He is going. I want to be so excited when I make time to just go for a walk with Jesus and sit in quietness with Him.
Our relationship with Jesus is always about growth, not checking boxes! This Sunday, we begin our Markers of Maturity series.
In this series, we will look at things like worship, prayer, the bible and generosity and how these markers can help indicate our growth and development in our relationship with Jesus.
This Sunday we officially kicked off 2020 at CBC with a service that celebrates in expectation of what God has for our community and how we can play a part this year.
A plant will only grow well if its roots go down deep into good soil. In this Philippians passage we are pulling apart, we will see Paul talk about being intentional in the direction we grow our roots.
Rejoicing, anti-anxiety, PEACE! All of these capture our hearts and minds when we hear them, but why so often is there a sense that they are so hard to grasp? This week in our Philippians series we are going to be looking at what Paul says is the go to for joy, wholeness and peace and how they can become commonplace in our lives.
This Sunday we will explore how our priorities change as we grow our relationship with Jesus. Jesus is calling us to seek what truly matters.
This week in our series we looked at Philippians 2:1-2 and unpacked what a life rooted in God's love looks like and how this impacts who we are and who we are becoming as followers of Jesus.
What is the key to living a spiritually healthy Christian life? There are as many theories out there as there are people on the planet.
Paul, who wrote most of the NT, has some super insightful guidance that is both easy to understand and very practical. Paul says we need to learn to love well, and as we do this we will naturally produce spiritual fruit and replicate Jesus. BUT - how on earth do you love well? Ka kite anoo - Craig
This Sunday we finish our Christmas series "A Thrill of Hope" with the story of the Magi. There are a lot of theories about who they were, where they were from and what they were doing but what we do know is that they came seeking one who would change this weary world forever.
In today's message, we are going to look at three more stages in the birth narrative of Jesus.
We will be exploring some pretty interesting facts that we often miss.
-What is Josephs emotional reaction to Mary when he wakes from his Angel dream?
-When you stop to think about it, who is really sleeping in an animal feed trough?
-Why is Jesus surrounded by criminals his whole life?
I'd strongly argue that Mary has no idea how she will become pregnant from the Holy Spirit. Yet, in simple child-like faith she submits her body to the gentle will of Almighty God.
How is it that this illiterate teenager who lived 2,000 years ago, can teach us so much about trusting the leading of God?
You don’t have to look around long to notice that the world seems pretty weary... you might even put yourself in that camp. You wouldn’t be alone in that, in fact, that's been something humanity has been dealing with for a very long time. But why?
This week we are beginning our new series “A Thrill of Hope” and we will be looking at where this weariness comes from and what the story of Christmas has to do with it.
This week Craig, finishes the our series on making space in our lives with giving generously. Such an action is shown that joy, and happiness comes from such an act.
I don’t think it is really a tricky question, but which wisdom do you think it is better to listen to - society or God? When it comes to money, possessions and time though a lot of us default to listen to how society is telling us to live our lives.
We all know that Joy from possessions is fleeting, and that trying to find my identity in what I do never works.
Yet, so many people are stuck on that treadmill - trying to find joy and meaning in stuff and overcommitment. WHY?
This week, Dave spoke on making space in our minds, while also releasing our fears and worries that trap us over to God, as everything we have is God's, and that what we have is what He gave us.
Faith is confidence and assurance in something we cannot see with our physical eyes but that we can 'see' with our spiritual eyes. We all need to check our vision to make sure we are seeing clearly. Moses' parents, Moses, and Joshua show us that faith is seeing Jesus, putting Him first, and stepping out to do what God has called us to.
This Sunday, we will look at some of the amazing people of faith, focusing on Abraham and Sarah.
Although they both make a number of mistakes - like we all do - they are also people who exhibit amazing faith.
A faith that is acted out in incredible, and quite illogical, obedience to God.
This week we begin a new series looking at the “People of faith” in Hebrews 11 and we will consider the ‘faith’ of the people who have gone before us.
You might be surprised to find that the faith that enabled these heroes to persevere, to hope, and to do what is right, is the faith we too share today.
How do you know if someone loves you and has your back?
They can say it and say it, but until they actually do something and put their ‘money where their mouth is’ you honestly don’t know if they mean it.
How about with God?
How do you know if he really loves you and is not just saying nice stuff?
This Sunday, Craig shares his message of truth with us that love is a verb.
This week Craig talks about the 'forgotten or unknown' one of the Trinity-The Holy Spirit. Craig teaches us that He is the one currently indwelling, guiding, and gifting all Christians is the world.
This Sunday morning we will be looking at Joshua's address to Israel and his challenge to them to serve God completely. Joshua's call to Israel to decide who will they serve and for them to decide what the future of Israel will look like.
How does this look today in the challenges we have in our lives? Are we willing to serve God 100%?
Join us as we continue the exciting journey of our new series THIS WE BELIEVE exploring God the Father.
Why are Christians so often called Children of God in the Bible?
Why does God the Father not call us minion or peons or something, considering how awesome He is in comparison to us?
And, what exactly does it mean to be a Child of God, when He is divine and I am human?
This Sunday we began the exciting journey of delving deeper into the theology and wonder of the Trinity in our new series THIS WE BELIEVE.
Often viewed as peripheral, extra, weird or just plain confusing, our understanding of the Trinity is actually central to our faith as Christians.
Why? Because, it is all about the God we love, worship and have our life in.
Michael Reeves writes “Neither a problem nor a technicality, the triune being of God is the vital oxygen of Christian life and joy.”
Come and breathe deep this ‘vital oxygen’, as God takes us deeper with Himself.