Richmond Anglican Aotearoa: Recent Episodes
Richmond Anglican NZ
Today Jesse Behan is leading the service and Wal our Locum minister is beginning our new series Intended for Good beginning with Genesis 37:2-36
Today Oliver Preston is leading the service and preaching the final part in our finance series looking at Mark 12:38-44 with the theme of Giving from the heart.
Today Oliver Preston is leading the service, and Peter Somervell is doing part 2 in our finance series looking at 1 Timothy 6:17-19 with A Word to the Wealthy.
Today Jesse Behan is leading the service, and Peter Somervell is opening our 3-week series on Finance beginning with asking the question, where is your treasure? looking at Matthew 6:19-24
This morning we have Nikki Pritchard leading the service and Dave Clancey is preaching on Luke 10:25-37 and leading in the Lord's Supper
Unfortunately this service had an issue with the sound quality for the first ten minutes or so, the service video starts part way through the service once the issue was resolved.
Last week Peter Somervell helped us continue to bring all of life under Jesus' rule and reign, as children of light, filled with the Holy Spirit as we consider our wider family relationship, and how we engage in the workplace. In Ephesians 6:10-24, Zane Elliott will finish our series talking about the Armor of God looking at three important things; being strong in the battle, standing firm and prayer because our need is great.
Last week we thought about Christian marriage as a place which reflects the glory of the Lord Jesus. In Ephesians 6:1-9 Peter Somervell will help us continue to bring all of life under Jesus' rule and reign, as children of light, filled with the Holy Spirit as we consider our wider family relationship, and how we engage in the workplace. Gospel truth should shape all of life, and today we'll see why.
Christian marriage is about so much more than two people living happily ever after; it is intended to point us to the cosmic plans of God to bring all things under Jesus' feet.
As Zane Elliott brings us to Ephesians 5:21-33, we'll think about
i) a marriage made in heaven vv.31-32.
And how that marriage made in heaven is, meant to be:I
i) reflected in Christian marriages vv.21-30,33.
a) by spirit filled wives vv.22-24
b) and spirit filled husbands vv.25-30 who live in submission to the love of Jesus.
As we meet Nathan 'Wal' Walter, who will serve as Locum Minister during August and September we are going to hear him encourage us to keep walking in a manner that is worthy of the Lord Jesus, in Ephesians. Chapter 5 is a chapter of application where we are spurred on to live out the love and grace we've received in the Lord Jesus.
Wal will help us see;
i) Things that must not be among us (vv3-7), that as God's people we must be
ii) Walking as light (vv8-14) and as we engage with the world around us be
iii) Walking as wise (vv15-21).
Today is Trinity Sunday and Bishop Steve Maina is going to celebrate with us.
he'll be preaching on Ephesians 4:25-5:2, a passage where we are encouraged to be totally reshaped into the new sleeves Paul described in chapter 4.
In Ephesians 4 the Apostle Paul urges the church to walk in a manner worthy of the calling they have received in the Lord Jesus.
As Zane Elliott open this passage we see that the church has i) A call to walk, in a particular way (vv.1-6).
Then we focus on three wonderful ways God helps us, encourages, us, and supports us, as we walk in the way we’re called to, as his people. He gives:
ii) Gifts to achieve it (vv. 7-10)
iii) Guides to teach it (vv.11-16)
iv) New selves walk it (vv.17-24)
In this sermon Peter Somervell will open Ephesians 3:1-21 where we see “The Mystery Revealed.”
We'll see that Paul wants us to comprehend God’s great plan for the church. He wants us to see it, marvel at it and rejoice in it and most importantly, live it out. For that, we need God’s help!
Peter will help us: Marvel at God’s Plan (vv.1-13) and show us why we must Pray for God’s Power (vv.14-21)
We'll be called to Pray to be strengthened with God’s Power (16-17a)
Pray to grasp the greatness of Christ’s love (17b-19)
Pray believing that God is able! (20-21)
As Zane Elliott opens Ephesians chapter 2 we see a church getting a difficult reality check as they struggle to walk in faith because of differences between Jewish and gentile background believers.
We'll join Paul as he helps the Ephesians grasp spiritual realities which make sense of:
i) How you walked in the past: vv.1-10 as he examines how Jew and gentile both needed God's grace, and
ii) How we must walk now: vv-11-22 united in the Lord Jesus.
In Ephesians 1:15-23 Paul prays for the church at Ephesus; that they might understand who God is, and know him better. He asks for three particular things for the Ephesian church, which should help shape the way we pray, and live today. Jesse Behan helps us to know god better by highlighting the heartbeat of Paul's prayer: that we remember the wonderful hope we have in Jesus, that we are strengthened by the glorious riches of being made God';s treasured possession, and that we grasp the power at work in us, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead.
Today we start a new series in Ephesians. Zane Elliott will set the scene in 1:1-14, as we see Paul burst into praise.
This morning we'll consider; Our privilege, and God’s purposes, as we get to grips with our identity in Jesus, and what we really are, so that as we praise God, we can become it.
In our services today we acknowledge Jean Palmer's ministry as Priest Assistant and give thanks to God for all that she has offered, as she transitions to serving as a retired minister.
To mark that change in ministry Jean will be preaching on John 12: 20-33, with the theme of 'help us see Jesus.' She'll anchor this to a key verse which has underpinned how she has aimed to serve the church from Ephesians 4.
Today Eric Geiger is leading the service and Dave Clancey is preaching on
John 21:1-25, as the disciples encounter the risen Lord for the third time and hear his final words to them. these words set the course for their lives and should set the course for the lives of those who believe that Jesus is the Risen Lord.
Easter Sunday is a day of marvelous celebration, because the Messiah, King Jesus, is no longer in the tomb - he has been raised to life! Join us in John 20 on Resurrection Day as we see Mary, Peter, John, Thomas and the disciples all come to believe that Jesus is alive.
Today we gather to remember the death of the Lord Jesus, as we hear John 19 read.
As Zane Elliott teaches we'll think about how out of control the whole situation looks, as Jesus is arrested, tried, and condemned to death. We'll go to the heart of the human heart as we focus on the assertion of the religious leaders that "we have no king but Caesar."
Over the past few weeks we've been in John 17 which is a prayer from Jesus to his Heavenly Father. The prayer itself is made up of 3 simple parts. In verses 1-5 Jesus prays for Himself, in verses 6-19 he prays for his disciples, and in verses 20-26 he prays for those throughout the world who will believe in Him.
Today, Phil Wheeler, Director of Evangelism and New Churches in the Diocese of Sydney will show us what Jesus prays for all believers, and the wonderful comfort that is for us.
What we pray for is something that reveals what is in our hearts; in John 17 we see Jesus pray for three things; first that by going to the cross he would be glorified to glorify the Father. Secondly he prays for his disciples. Thirdly he prays for all believers.
Today Peter Somervell will walk us through John 17:9-16 as Jesus prays for the disciples. We'll see the heart of his hopes for them, and his kindness and compassion as they stand before a real time of trial - Jesus' hour has come, he will soon be crucified.
Our Church whanau visited Quinney's bush this week and followed John 15:27-16 with Zane Elliott
Today Oliver Preston, one of our Student Ministers will be preaching on John 15:9-16. He'll help us think through what it really looks like to love one another, in the way that Jesus has loved us; and how that is an expression of the Father's love.
In John 14 Jesus continues to prepare his disciples for his imminent departure, via the cross. They are thrown into turmoil as they process what he has said about leaving them for a place they cannot go. He helps to set their hearts at rest and shows them that in his father's house are many rooms, but there is no room for FOMO (the fear of missing out).
As we begin the season of Lent we're joining Jesus in John's Gospel for his last day on earth before he is crucified.
As Jesus begins the last 24 hours of his earthly life, he does something scandalous; he takes on the lowest dirtiest job and washes his followers feet. Knowing that he would soon be betrayed to death, Jesus humbles himself, in an unimaginable way, to show it is essential to be cleansed, and changed by Him.
This morning Zane Elliott will open John 13:1-30 and help us see;
i) How we can be cleansed vv.1-11 and ii) How we can be changed vv.12-30, where we’ll see; a) the example to follow vv.12-17 and b) the depth of love to live vv.18-30 as the people of God.
Today the Vicar General Simon Martin will be preaching at Holy Trinity. he'll open Psalm 95 and Mark 8: 11-21 to help us think through how Jesus is 'the One Bread' who brings true life.
This is the last week in the Series 'Jesus: simply the best' where we've been thinking about why Jesus is the very best foundation for life.
To bring this series to a close Oli Preston will be preaching on chapter 9 of Hebrews and helping us see why Jesus is a better sacrifice than all of the sacrifices offered in the Old Testament.
This week Jesse Behan will continue our series 'Jesus - Simply the best' with 'A Better Covenant' through opening the book of Hebrews to get a better understanding of who Jesus is, and why he is the very best foundation we can build our lives on.
In this new series 'Jesus - Simply the best' we' will open the book of Hebrews to get a better understanding of who Jesus is, and why he is the very best foundation we can build our lives on.
In this new series 'Jesus - Simply the best' we' will open the book of Hebrews to get a better understanding of who Jesus is, and why he is the very best foundation we can build our lives on.
In Hebrews 4 the author concludes a commentary on Psalm 95, which was a warning to the people of God about disobeying his word, and failing to enter his rest.
He recalls these events from their heritage because they are tempted to go back to the old way of life, to join their friends at the synagogue, to join in the rituals of the Jewish religion, rather than trust God’s free gift of grace. The book says don’t go back to the past, but look forward to the promise of God’s true rest by faith in Jesus. He calls them to make every effort to enter it, by trusting and obeying God’s Word.
As we open the passage we’re going to look back to i) a warning from the past, anticipate ii) a promise for the future, and iii) how we live in the present, in light of this promise of rest.
In this new series 'Jesus - Simply the best' we' will open the book of Hebrews to get a better understanding of who Jesus is, and why he is the very best foundation we can build our lives on.
Today in Hebrews 2 Jean Palmer shows us that Jeuss is Simply Best because he is the Son who Saves.
We'll see that God is a God who judges justly, and deals with our greatest concern - separation from him because of sin. This God saves, by fulfilling the Law, and redeeming those who put their trust in Jesus.
In this new series 'Jesus - Simply the best' we' will open the book of Hebrews to get a better understanding of who Jesus is, and why he is the very best foundation we can build our lives on. In Hebrews 1:1-4 we'll see that Jesus is the best because he is the God who speaks.
This year we are looking at three Christmas promises which centre on prophecies in Isaiah and how Jesus fulfils them. As we welcome guests and visitors for a service of Carols and Cake we'll be thinking about God's promise of true rest, in the perfect kingdom in Isaiah 11:1-9, and Matthew 13:31-35.
This year we are looking at three Christmas promises which centre on prophecies in Isaiah and how Jesus fulfils them.
Today we consider the wonderful promise of a perfect king in Isiah 9:1-7.
As Isaiah prophesies, he reminds Judah they have received God’s perfect promise to save, and so they have
i) a true hope v.1-2,
ii) a new situation to anticipate v.3-5,
iii) and the coming of a perfect king vv.6-7.
Today we start a new three part series called 'Christmas Promises.'
This series covers three prophecies, thee promises in the book of Isaiah concerning the birth of the ultimate king from the line of David.
He is the one who will rescue, restore and rule over God's people for all eternity.
His birth is hinted at in chapter 7 and confirmed in chapter 9 where his nature and character are also described.
The third promise in chapter 11 describes him as the Spirit-anointed king who is qualified and equipped to establish the perfect kingdom in which God's people will live in God's presence
Today we open Isaiah 7:1-11, and Matthew 1:18-24, as we see two different reposes to the promise of God to save and rescue his people.
This morning we’ll join Ahaz and spend time considering i)the threat and his response of faithlessness, in light of God’s promise, before we visit Jospeh and ii) the response of faithfulness.
In a season of indulgence, we are thinking about temptation, and how despite what the advertising gurus want us to think, it isn't a trivial matter. We'll see Jesus tempted in the wilderness in Matthew 4:1-11 where Zane Elliott will walk us through the three trials, Jesus' responses to them, and three truths Christians can hold on to as they face temptation.
As we come to the end of the series in Habakkuk: From Fear to Faith, Zane Elliott shows us Habakkuk's astounding response to certain judgement and calamity: He sings!
Confident God will keep His promises, Habakkuk’s song rises and falls like a symphony of three movements, each with its own emotion, all telling one great story. In this sermon we’ll see a:
i) A movement of trust v.2
ii) A movement of God’s power vv.3-16
iii) A movement of delight vv.17-19
In chapter two of Habakkuk God reassures him that evil will not last forever. Jesse Behan opens this passage and helps us see how good and trustworthy God's Word is.
Today Zane Elliott is leading our service, and Oliver Preston is continuing our four-part teaching series in Habakkuk chapter 1:12- 2:1 with the theme ' From fear to faith."
This morning we start a four part series in the book of Habakkuk. Zane Elliott opens chapter 1:1-11 under the theme: Fearing God doesn't see, as we meet the prophet Habakkuk who is trying to make sense of the injustice he sees before him. We'll be thinking about how a righteous person responds to injustice. Faithful people should
i) be disturbed - God’s people should be rocked by injustice.
ii) Be honest - bring those fears to God himself and
iii) Be astounded - God does act to bring justice, sometimes in unbelievable ways.
Today we are back in our annual teaching series about money, called Money matters.
It's also our Giving Day, where parishioners can make a one-off gift for special purposes in the life of our church.
To help us think about Using what we’ve got, we’ll open 1 Timothy 6:17–19, where Paul gives Timothy guidance as he shepherds the church in Ephesus. He urges the wealthy not to fix their eyes on earthly riches, but to seek true wealth in God’s economy, treasure that lasts into eternity, we’ll be encouraged to do two things:
i) Write off false assets (v.17), thinking our wealth gives us value, or security,
and ii) Invest for real returns (vv.18–19), being rich in good deeds, generous, and willing to share, laying up true treasure for the coming age.
This week we start an annual series where we think about money, how we use it, and why it causes us so much anxiety and stress. Over the next two weeks we'll think about 'Money Matters' and we begin that series today in Matthew 6:25-34, and Deuteronomy 8:2-10 as Zane Elliott helps us think about The God who Supplies. We'll hear i) a call not to worry, and ii) a call to remember so that we can be freed to seek God's kingdom, and run after righteousness
Today we have Jesse Behan leading the service and Dave Clancey preaching on Mark 3:20-35 and Isaiah 49:1-26.
Today we are walking into Jerusalem with Jesus in Matthew 21:1-11, Zane Elliott helps us ask the question which was on the lips of the crowd 'Who is this?'
As we come to the final sermon in the Series in Colossians, Zane Elliott walks us through Colossians 4:2-19, and shows how as Paul takes on the role of encourager, he wants these Christians who are feeling unsettled under the weight of their role and responsibility to proclaim the gospel, under the confusion of false teaching, and at odds with their culture, to be confident that in Jesus {slide 4} they have all they need to i) join in the mission of God vv.2-6, because, ii) they are part of the team vv.7-19.
This morning Jean Palmer is leading the Morning Prayer Common Worship service and Zane Elliott is continuing on in his teaching in Colossians 3:12 - 4:1 as we explore the necessity of Christ-Centered Relationships.
This morning we're gathering from different ages and stages for a whānau service, a time when we learn together and enjoy discussion and reflection.
As we explore Colossians 3:1-11 the big theme is 'The Christ-Centered Life.'
To help the Colossians keep Jesus at the Centre of their lives Paul does two things. He describes their present reality in vv.2-4, by reminding them of what Jesus has done for them; and then he shows them how to live it out in vv.5-11.
We'll be reflecting on how we can keep Jesus at the Centre of lives in light of this teaching.
As we continue our teaching series in Colossians Jean Palmer will be building on what we heard last week in Colossians 2:16-23. As we walk through this passage we'll be encouraged to Look to Christ, the solid reality, and all we have in Him. Not to be lured away by what is shadowy, insubstantial, ephemeral and temporal as we keep growing in our faith, deepening our experience of being filled with all the fullness of Christ, and keep looking to Christ the solid reality.
Today is a special service at Holy Trinity Richmond. The whole parish is gathering to give thanks to God for the long legacy of choral music, which is drawing to a close in the service today.
Unfortunately, the first part of the service, including the welcome didn't have sound, so the video will begin during the first hymn.
Zane Elliott will be opening Colossians 2:6-15 and reminding us that that Christians are i) fully connected to Jesus, and that Christians are ii) fully forgiven in Jesus and then think about how those truths helps continue to live our lives in him as iii) hollow and deceptive philosophies seek to wrench us from our Lord.
Oli Preston is leading today's service and Jesse Behan today will be preaching on 3 John. Following from Jesse's sermon on John 2 (Letters written from St John to his Christian friends).
Due to illness, we are taking a break from Colossians today.
In Colossians 1:24 - 2:1-5 we are going to be thinking about gospel labour. As Zane Elliot opens this passage, we are going to see the thing that helps us labour for the gospel (which is hard work!) under the headings.
i) The motivation for gospel labour, before we spend some time looking at the example of Paul and consider
ii) The manner of gospel labour.
Today Oliver Preston a Student minister at Richmond Anglican continues our series in Colossians by helping us see who Jesus really is.
We face the very real danger of misunderstanding Jesus, but in Colossians 1:15-26 the Apostle Paul leaves us in no doubt that Jesus Christ is supreme over all. Oliver will help us think about the ways we sometimes subtract from who Jesus is making him less that he really is.
This morning we begin a new series in the book of Colossians.
The church at Colossae was really struggling with false teachers offering something more than Jesus so that they would experience spiritual growth. In this opening sermon Zane Elliott explore Paul's two prayers for the Colossians: firstly i) a prayer of thanks looking back at the past in vv.3-8, and ii) a prayer of hope looking to the future in vv.9-14. These prayers show us Paul’s heart for the church at Colossae to know true spiritual growth - not through quick fixes, but through the gospel of the Lord Jesus.
For the past couple of weeks we have been in a break with our teaching series so each preacher has been choosing there own passage. Today we have Jesse Behan preaching on 2 John.
Next week we will be jumping into a new teaching series in the book of Colossians which Zane Elliott our Senior Minister will be starting for us.
For the next two weeks we'll have a special focus on Creation Care.
Today Jean Palmer will open Psalm 104 and Romans 8:19-25 as she helps us think about God, Creation and Us.
We'll be challenged to see God's creation, and our responsibilities towards it as part of working out our faith in the Lord Jesus.
On Trinity Sunday our four congregations are all gathering for a day of celebration as we welcome Wendy to be baptized, and William to be confirmed.
Steve Maina, the Bishop of Nelson will be preaching on Luke 18:31-43, and leading us through the Lord's Supper.
Today we continue in the four-part series 'one Another' where we consider sayings from the New Testament, which will, help us live as the church, to the glory of God.
= cajoler 5:1-11 of Paul’s letter to Christians in Thessalonia, it comes as an encouragement to a struggling church.
We’ll explore three ways we can be individuals, and a church who build one another up as we.
i) Encourage one another by remembering how the end will come in vv.1-3
ii) Encourage one another other by living in the light vv.4-10
iii) encourage by building each other up v.11
Today we continue in the four part series 'one Another' where we consider sayings from the New Testament with help us live as the church, to the glory of God.
Today Zane Elliott opens Philippians 2:1-11, as he helps us think through the need for the church to exercise Humility.
As we open this beautiful passage we’re going to explore it with two questions:
i) what is Christian humility? vv.1-4
ii) How is it possible? vv.5-11
Living as Church to the Glory of God
This morning Oliver Preston will be helping us think about what it means to live in Unity with One Another as he opens 1 Corinthians 1:10-18. As we consider divisions which were ripping the church at Corinth apart, and how we can avoid them today.
he'll help us see that Christians should never divide over worldly matters but, be united to one another in the foolish gospel of the cross.
Living as Church to the Glory of God:
Today we begin a four-week series on how we relate to one another. As part of our church vision, we’re taking specific steps to be intentionally intergenerational, but we’re also committed to grow in Christlikeness as a church whanau. To help us in that we’ll explore unity, humility in fellowship, and how we can encourage one another as a church whanau.
As we consider a new command Jesus gives his followers, to love as he has loved, we are going to have an overview of i) what God’s love is like before we spend most of our time today thinking about ii) living out the new command Jesus gives his followers, to love like he loves us.
Today Zane Elliott concludes the series in Luke's Gospel. As we open chapter 24:50-53 we'll be considering what brought about the total transformation in the lives of Jesus' followers as they moved from fear to faithfulness.
Luke shows us three reasons.
i) They have believed who Jesus is
ii) They know his blessing
iii) They have a new hope
The Greatest Day: Behind locked doors
Today, Zane Elliott takes us through the final of our mini-series of The Greatest Day in Luke 24:36-49
The greatest day: on the Road
Today, Jesse Behan will continue in the second of our mini-series of "The end of the Beginning" in Luke 24:13-35.
The Greatest day: At the Tomb
This service will be full of joy and celebration, as we remember that Jesus is not dead he has risen! Zane Elliott will be preaching on Luke 24:1-12, as we join the women who followed Jesus at the tomb - and explore 1) what they expected v.1 and ii) what they found vv.2-8, before we compare iii) what they and the apostles make of it all vv.9-12.
As Zane Elliott opens Luke 23: 26-56 with God on the Cross as the theme. Exploring the 3 main ideas of; A God of compassion, a God of Mercy and a God of power and promise.
As Zane Elliott opens Luke 22:66-23:25 we come to a miscarriage of justice, as Jesus is out on trial.
The trial itself raises a question everyone who comes face to face with Jesus has to answer; how will you judge him? Will you believe he is who he says he is or not?
As we answer those questions today, we’ll walk through three phases of this trial, in the first he’s before the Jewish i) Ruling council vv.66-71, who want confirmation that they have reason to put him to death.
Then he appears before ii) the authorities, Pilate and Herod 23:1-12, who both want different things from Jesus.
Finally, we’ll come to iii) the sentence Jesus receives in 23:13-25, and the question it forces us to answer.
Today we'll be exploring Luke 22: 39-65 in a new format called a whanau service. This will be an interactive service, with discussion groups and lots of participation. We'll be trying this service on the 5th Sunday of the month. There will be reflection questions on the screen for folks at home.
The end of the Beginning series continues with Simon Martin taking us through Luke 22: 1-38 theme: the Last supper
Jean Palmer continues our journey through the series of, The end of the Beginning Theme: The last things: Luke 21: 5-38
John Palmer will continue our series of; The end of the Beginning through the Gospel of Luke 20:45- 21:1-4.
Rob Morton from the Gospel Training Trust will be helping us continue our journey in the Gospel of Luke as we come to another difficult question Jesus faces in Luke 20:20-44.
Today we continue in Luke's Gospel. We are in a series called 'the end of the Beginning' walks us through Jesus final week on earth.
Zane Elliott will be opening Luke 19:45- 48 +20:1-19.
Firstly, we’ll examine,
i) an explosive confrontation in vv.45-48 as Jesus reacts to the rot he sees in the temple. Then we’ll come to;
ii) an interrogation 20:1-9 where Priests try to question Jesus’ authority, before he delivers.
ii) a distressing condemnation vv.9-19 as Jesus names the deep rot, and it's terrible consequences.
Today we come to the final block of teaching in Luke's Gospel. the series 'the end of the Beginning' walks us through Jesus final week on earth.
In Luke 19:28-44 we come to a Controversial Inauguration.
Some celebrate, while others reject his claim of leadership.
As we come to this inauguration of sorts Zane Elliott will unpack;
i) the heart of the claim vv.28-35
ii) the heart of the controversy vv.36-40
iii) Jesus’ heart for the perishing vv.41-44
Today Jesse Behan will continue through our series of Consider Christ.
Today's sermon is focused on Christ our Founder.
Hebrews 12:1-3
In the third week of the series 'Consider Christ' Jean Palmer is teaching on Romans 5:1-11, where we come face to face with our great need for a mediator who can bring a rebellious people before a holy God.
We need a mediator, because we have a very real problem - we have broken God's Law, and are rightly deserving of condemnation.
We'll see how through Christ our mediator Jesus not only deals with that problem, but he allows us to share in all of the blessings of God - they are ours, but only ours through Christ.
In this series we are moving beyond the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus, and thinking more about his ministry, as Lord and Saviour. We’ll be looking at a series of themes and passage that make it very clear that the Christian life is all about Jesus.
Today we are in the second week of the series 'Consider Christ.' We are moving beyond the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus, and thinking more about his ministry, as Lord and Saviour. We’ll be looking at a series of themes and passage that make it very clear that the Christian life is all about Jesus.
The theme is 'In Christ our Lifegiver' and Zane Elliott will open John 15:1-8 and we’ll explore three { aspects of this passage:
i) The setting for Jesus’ teaching so that we can understand its significance to his first hears, and us. Then ii) Jesus’ goal for us as his followers and iii) The implications for those who remain in him.
This week we begin a brand new series as we focus on Jesus at the centre of everything. The series is called 'Consider Christ' and today John Palmer is opening Colossians 3:1-4 to help us think about the assurance we have With Christ our Security.
Over this advent season we’ve been considering the overarching title “ The promised King, a king like no other" where we’ve looked at an Old testament promise, and then thought about its fulfilment in Jesus.
So far we’ve covered two big themes:
Jesus is the forever king. His reign will never come to an end. He has been raised from the dead, and will rule for all eternity.
Jesse showed us last week that that Jesus is a rescuing king. Because of his birth, life and death, we can experience true peace, and live lives which are transformed to the glory of God.
Today we open Isaiah 49, and Matthew 2 where we see i) the scope of this New King's rule, as we think about how far it extends, and then two responses to ii) living under his reign - one which accepts his kingship, and one which rejects it.
This Sunday is the second Sunday of Advent, and over the next four weeks we'll be looking at the birth of Jesus who is a King like no other. He is God's promised King.
Today, Jesse Behan, one of our student ministers will open Isaiah 53, and Luke 2, showing us how Jesus is the Rescuing King, and what that means for us.
This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent, and over the next four weeks we'll be looking at the birth of Jesus who is a King like no other. He is God's promised King.
in the first of these four sermons Zane Elliott will take us to Isaiah 9:6-7, and Luke 1:26-38 to help us see that Jesus is the Forever King.
Today Dave Clancey will be preaching, and helping us think through Spiritual Balance. He'll be opening Isaiah chapter 6 to help us apply God's word to our lives.
This morning, we are preparing ourselves for a change in focus as a church in 2025 as Zane Elliott preaches on Romans 10:1-15.
We’re going to spend time thinking about
i) the message we have which saves, in vv.1-13, before we move to the simple, logical progression, that.
ii) this message can only be heard if we speak vv.14-15.
Today we conclude the portion of Luke's Gospel we've been working through, as we see Jesus describe a day of reckoning. Zane Elliott will help us consider.
i) our responsibility while the king is away vv.11-13,
ii) the rewards for those who discharge them faithfully,
iii) and the reprimand which awaits those who don't vv.20-27.
As Jesus gets even closer to his death in Jerusalem, he makes a pit-stop in the city of Jericho where we’ll spend time with these two men, as we explore the power of faith
i) to redeem and restore 18:35-43, and the power of faith to redeem and transform 19:1-10. We’ll be reminded that Jesus comes to seek and save the lost, whose lives are totally transformed by the power of faith.
Today, as we focus on Luke 18:31-34, where Jesus explains that he has just one job, but unlike all of the internet memes capturing "you had one job" failures, Jesus will complete this one job perfectly.
Today Zane Elliott explores
i) the one job,
ii) how it will happen, and,
iii) why we need to remember it.
This morning, as we open Luke 18:9-30, we are going to come face to face with three blockages, as we continue the series Saviour of the Lost.
Zane Elliott will show us how these blockages, are blockages to entering the Kingdom of God, and finding new life in Jesus - the three blockages we’re going to explore are:
i) self-righteousness vv.9-14,
ii) self-importance vv.15-17,
iii) self-reliance vv.18-30.
Today we continue in the gospel of Luke, in the series 'Saviour of the Lost.' Simon Martin, Vicar-General of the Diocese of Nelson, and Bishop's Chaplain will be preaching on the first part of chapter 18 of Luke's Gospel.
Today we continue in the gospel of Luke, in the series 'Saviour of the Lost.' Jean Palmer will be explaining the meaning of the second half of chapter 17 of Luke's Gospel.
Today Zane Elliott will be bringing the series called "Cash Values" to a close.
Today's sermon theme is "Partners in Generosity" and we will be working through Philippians 4:10-20 and 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 .
These two passages both describe church communities who have been changed, who have been motivated to give sacrificially, as they become partners in generosity.
We’ll see how Partners in Generosity i) Both benefit, ii) Believe in gospel growth and iii) Grow in contentment as they rely on the grace of God above all else.
Today Oliver Preston will be continuing the series called "Cash Values."
Today's sermon theme is "Paying the Bills" and we will be working through Proverbs 6:6-11, 27:23-27, 1 Timothy 5:3-18 as we think about how we use our money, to God's glory on a daily basis.
Today Zane Elliott will be in the series called "Cash Values."
Today's sermon theme is "Money as god" and we will be working through Matthew 6:19-21,24 and Deuteronomy 8:6-19.
What we serve with our money will grow in our hearts; if we serve ourselves with it, there’s a very real danger we’ll become a god in our own eyes. To help us avoid that very real danger we’re going to see Jesus’ call for i) an attitude adjustment, for rich and poor alike. Before we dive into ii) the rationale for that attitude adjustment, which will help us to keep money in the right place, so that it doesn’t become a god, worthy of our worship.
Today Zane Elliott will be starting a new series called "Cash Values."
Todays sermon theme is "God and Money" and we will be working through
Psalm 104:24-30 and Haggai 2:6-9 as we think about the 'Love/Hate' relationship Christians often have with money.
Today Phil Wheeler will be preaching on Luke 17:1-10. He will be helping us know who we really are.
Heading back into the Gospel of Luke, we will be exploring Luke 16:16–31 with Zane Elliott.
As we look at this passage today we’re going to wrestle with who we serve, as we spend time looking at the claims of i) those who serve the law in vv.16-18. It’s the shortest section in the passage, but we’ll spend most of our time here before we move on ii) to those who serve themselves, in the story of Lazarus and the rich man in vv.19-31
Heading back into the Gospel of Luke, we will be exploring Luke 16:1-15 with Zane Elliott.
Heading back into the Gospel of Luke, we will be exploring Luke 15:1-32 with Zane Elliott.
This is one of Jesus most famous story sets; it’s an epic trilogy. These three stories, which show us the unfolding character of God, and show us two things about him; firstly: he is a good who is concerned for the lost he is;
i)The God who searches, and when he finds what he is relentlessly seeking, the lost of this world, he rejoices; he is
ii) the God who celebrates.
This morning we’re going to see the Saviour of the Lost explain what his kingdom is like: it's a kingdom where the important are brought low and low are elevated
i) it’s an upside down kingdom vv. 1-24 It’s a kingdom which is free to enter but comes at great personal price.
ii) It is a costly kingdom vv.25-35.
We are continuing our series "Mature in Christ", exploring 2 Peter 1:3-11 under the theme "Who Sanctifies" as Jesse Behan opens the Bible for us today.
We are continuing our series "Mature in Christ", exploring Ephesians 2:1-10 under the theme "Who justifies by faith alone" as Oliver Preston opens the Bible for us today.
We are continuing our series "Mature in Christ", exploring Psalm 32 under the theme "Who justifies by forgiving sin" with Jean Palmer.
We are continuing our series "Mature in Christ", exploring Psalm 100 under the theme "Who is worthy of Praise! (Because he saves) with John Palmer.
Today we are coming face to face with the God who is making salvation known. In Psalm 19 we'll see how God is generally revealed in creation vv.1-6, then in vv.7-11 we'll look at how he gives specific revelation to the world through the law so that we see our great need for salvation, before thinking about how we need to respond by seeking redemption in vv.12-14.
This morning we continue the series called "Mature in Christ" working through some core beliefs in the Christian faith. Today we explore the belief that the one true God is revealed through the Scriptures. We'll begin by reminding ourselves that;
i)God has spoken. He isn't a distant and unknowable God. Then we'll apply the practical response to that truth to
ii)pay careful attention to what God has plainly and clearly said as we live in the world he has created.
This morning we continue the series called "Mature in Christ" working through some core beliefs in the Christian faith. Today we open Exodus 34:1-9 and see how God is both merciful and just.
Today is Trinity Sunday, and we've got the whole parish, young and old together in one service. In our All-Age service today Bishop Steve Maina, the Bishop of Nelson will be opening Romans 8:12-17.
This morning we start a new series called "Mature in Christ" working through some core beliefs in the Christian faith. Today we open Psalm 145 and explore the reality that 'There is only one God.' Zane Elliott will help us understand what that mean i)in the ancient world - a polytheistic world, and ii) in our world - an atheistic world.
Today we bring the current series in Luke's Gospel to a close for several weeks. In this last message we are still on the road to Jerusalem with Jesus, as he deals with a difficult question 'Will only a few be saved?"
As Zane Elliott unpacks Luke 13:22-35 we'll see
i)The door is narrow vv.22-24,
ii) Time is short vv.25-30 but that
iii) Nothing will stop the divine purpose of God.
In the next passage in Luke's Gospel (13:10-21) Zane Elliott walks us through Jesus testing his hearers after he's just been teaching them about repentance. Today we consider
i) The Test in vv.10-13,
ii) The Result and then
iii) The Scope of the Kingdom of God vv.18-20 that Jesus is calling people into.
In today's 9am service, we continue our Journey on The Road to Jerusalem.
Opening in the Gospel of Luke 12:49-58: 13:1-9
In today service we continue with Jonah. Ollie Preston looks through the final chapter of Jonah 4:1-10
Today we continue through the book of Jonah and The Heartbeat of God.
Jesse Behan opens the reading of:
Jonah 2:10 - 3:1-10
Today we start a new series in the Book of Jonah, where we'll be examining God's heartbeat for lost people.
Zane Elliott walks us through chapter 1 using two headers: the response of the 'godly one and the response of the 'godless ones.'
Today we gather to celebrate that Jesus is Risen from the dead! His resurrection means that everything has changed. We'll be hearing John's account of Jesus resurrection in John 20:1-23, and we'll be looking at;
i)Mary's Misery,
ii)Mary's Misunderstanding, and,
iii) Mary's Message as Zane Elliott
At the 10:30am service today John Palmer opens Luke 12:13-34, and helps us see where we find true wealth. As we think about true wealth, and where we can find it we'll explore this theme under three headings:
i) An Interruption,
ii) A Parable,
iii) A challenge about possessions.
In this service we are going to be encouraged to 'Be faithful to the faithful one' as Dave Clancey, who is the ministry director for the Church of Confessing Anglicans, and tutor at Bishopdale College will open Luke 12:1-12 for us as we continue in Luke's Gospel.
Today we continue in the Gospel of Luke. In today’s passage, Zane Elliott takes us back to the crowd who demanded a sign, and accused him of working for the devil.
Today he shows us how Jesus challenges their motives as he shows them that;
i)Jesus' message is enough vv.29-33, and then highlights their false motives as he insists that;
ii) Jesus' self-revelation is enough vv.33-36.
As we continue in the Gospel of Luke Zane Elliott walks us through an illogical accusation and three grave warnings after Jesus heals a mute man.
As we continue in the Gospel of Luke Jean Palmer takes us to famous instructions for followers of Jesus on how to pray.
In this service we'll continue on the 'Road to Jerusalem' with Jesus, as we open Luke 10:25-37 and come to the very well known Parable of the Good Samaritan.
Jesus tells this story in response to a lawyer, an expert in the Jewish law who hammers him with a question, which aims to achieve something very different from what it sounds like on the face of it.
Today, in Luke 10:25-37, we are going to grapple with that question, and Jesus’ answer. {slide 3} We’re going to spend some time understanding i) the Lawyer’s questions vv.25-29
Before we see Jesus, ii) getting to the heart of the matter vv.30-35,. Then we spend most our time exploring how Jesus asks iii) a better question vv.36-37
In this semon we return to the Gospel of Luke. We'll pick up at Chapter 9 verse 51, a key verse in this gospel, where Jesus resolutely sets his face towards Jerusalem and all that awaits him there.
As we work through the passage (9:51-10:24) we'll see how Jesus reframes the expectations of his disciples.
He gives the instructions about going out and sharing in Kingdom proclamation i)Under the Sovereignty of God vv.1-16.
And he reframes ii) What ministry success really looks like v.17-24. As we explore those two big concepts we’ll also draw on the two preceding encounters, one in a Samaritan village where Jesus was rejected, and one where disciples were called to prioritise Kingdom proclamation above all else.
In this short series 'Under the shadow of His wings" we look at the overwhelming confidence Christine can have, as they take refuge in God's care and protection. Today Zane Elliott walks us through Psalm 36 and helps us think through where we can find refuge in the storms of life, even extreme situations where others threaten to harm us. He'll help us see:
i)what the wicked are like, and how we can face their plots and schemes because of
ii) The love of God.
Please note: The reading of Psalm 36 has been excluded from the audio.
Life can be uncertain and unpredictable. As we begin a New Year we are taking time to consider God's Sovereign providence, care and protection as we work through a series of three Psalms. the series is called 'Under the Shadow of His wings.'
Today Jean Palmer opens Psalm 91.
Today we are going to meet men who come and bow before a king, not in a grand palace but humbly on the floor, recognising the Kingship of a baby. As this saviour is recognised as a king, we are both surprised, and reassured as Matthew points us to the Old Testament consistency of Jesus’ reign which calls us to {slide}
i) recognise the king! As we see the responses of Herod and the Magi to this King Matthew helps us to
ii) grasp the scope of his kingdom and puts us on the spot helping us to think through how we will respond to its ruler.
This week we continue engaging with the birth of Jesus, as we consider his naming, and presentation in the Temple. John palmer will be preaching on Luke 2:21-40, and Isaiah 61:10-26:12.
Today we continue in our Advent series 'the Coming of a Saviour.' Zane Elliott takes us to a prophecy given around 7-800 years before Jesus was born, which pointed to how God would fulfil his wonderful promise to gather people who had rejected him back to himself as God's people, they would live in god's place enjoying God's blessing.
Today we explore God's Plan to do that, and how it came true for King Ahaz, and how it came true in the birth of the Lord Jesus.
As we continue working through the big series for Advent called The Coming of a Saviour we've already considered Our Problem and God's Promise. This morning Jean Palmer is helping us look to the glorious future we have with God as we think about the theme 'God's Place.'
Today we continue the four part Advent series called: The coming of a Saviour.
Last week we spent time considering Our Problem; and highlighted why we need a Saviour in the first place.
Today John Palmer is going to help us consider God's Promise as he preaches on Genesis 12:1-8, and 2 Samuel
We don’t have to look far to recognise this world isn’t a world of perfection right now. If you’ve ever wondered why everything feels so messed up, why we find ourselves in conflict with other people, why God feels distant.
Zane Elliott helps us see why, as we tackle the theme ‘Our Problem’ and asks ‘why do we need a saviour?’
This is the final sermon in the series we've been working through in 1 Peter.
Last week we saw how leaders can do that; by emptying themselves, and following the example of the Good Shepherd. Watching over the flock by exercising a servant leadership under the great shepherd, the Lord Jesus.
In this last section Zane Elliott help's us follow Peter’s train of thought which moves from leaders to young people, and then the rest of the Church, as he calls every believer to i) follow Jesus’ example of humility. He also offers strength to Christians, in the midst of suffering. He identifies a great threat to their faith, and encourages us to ii) be of sober mind when we suffer.
The failures of Christian leaders are often high-profile, and always deeply harmful to a Christian church, and its members.
In 1 Peter 5:1-4 Peter helps Christian people think through how leaders can model the Lord Jesus as they watch over the flocks entrusted to them.
As Zane Elliott opens 1 Peter 5:1-4 we are going to see how leaders are not exempt from the trials of the Christian life, but Christian leaders:
i) share in Jesus’ sufferings v.1, but that despite being the target of some particular hurt and challenges must shepherd well, and
ii) follow Jesus’ example vv.2-3, and when they do, they will
iii) share Jesus’ glory v.4
Over the next three weeks we'll finish the series we started earlier in the year in 1 Peter.
As we work through this passage today we’re going to anchor the very real suffering we experience in i) The Pattern of Jesus vv.12 &13, we’re going to consider the purpose of ii) Suffering for Jesus vv.14-18 and how we are sustained by iii) The Example of Jesus v.19, so that we can not only endure suffering when it comes our way, but so that we can see how God uses it to his glory in the world.
Today we are joined by ECM Mission Partner Féy Cotter who works to mobilise mission work in Europe. She will open Matthew 9:35-10:8 and 28:18-20. She will help us consider when Jesus commissioned his disciples and sent them out to proclaim the good news of the Kingdom to the ‘lost sheep of Israel, and then anchor this within the Great Commission.
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' Zane Elliott walks us through Chapter 9, focussing on verses 18-36, 44-51.
Right through the first nine chapters, Luke has been pointing us to Jesus’ identity. The big question, on everyone’s lips has been “who is Jesus?” its the question even Herod was asking in v.7, which goes to the heart of the chapter.
Today, we’ll see the definitive answer in i) Peter’s Confession in vv. 18-27. Then we’ll come to ii) God’s Confirmation of who Jesus is in the transfiguration vv.28-36,
and iii) Jesus’ Expectation of what the answer means for him and his followers: vv.21-27, 44-51
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' Eric Geiger opens chapter eight of Luke's Gospel for us. He will major on the parable of the Sower and point us to Luke's absolute certainty that 'Jesus is Lord over all' through the rest of the chapter.
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' Jean Palmer opens chapter seven of Luke's Gospel for us
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' John Palmer opens chapter six for us and helps us consider the Kingdom of God - it is a Radical Kingdom.
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' Zane Elliott shows us how Luke answers an important question: Who is qualified to enter the Kingdom God? Who is qualified to be a disciple? To help us answer that question we are going to focus in detail on two disciples.
The first is Simon Peter who has the best day’s fishing ever witnessed. vv.1-16
The second is a man with the terrible skin disease of leprosy, vv.12-15
And we’ll touch on two others, very briefly
a man who has been paralysed, who’s friends have amazing faith vv.17-26 and Levi, a tax collector vv.27-39, as we think about what qualifies someone to be a follower of Jesus.
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' Jean Palmer is opening Luke 4:14-44, and helping us think about Grasping the Good News of Jesus.
We'll be thinking about i) Grasping the good news in the sense of understanding how Jesus saw his mission. Rooted in the Old Testament (Isaiah 61)
And then ii) Grasping in the sense of us taking hold of the Good News and running with it.
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' we think about the Identity of the Messiah, Jesus. Identity has become fundamental to how Western people define themselves, it's almost sacred, something that is self defined, and should never be transgressed.
Today, in Luke 3 and 4 we are going to consider what is revealed to us of Jesus’ Identity, as he begins his earthly ministry.
In the first section we’ll see i). The Messiah’s identity revealed
The Messiah’s identity revealed
i) he is unstoppable vv.1-6, ii) he is bringing division vv.7-20. Before we focus on the Messiah’s identity:
iii) reaffirmed in genealogy vv.23-38 and finally iv) put to the test 4:1-13.
In this next sermon in the series 'Know with Certainty' Luke takes us to the birth of a child i) In Bethlehem, during a census. It looks like the decision of the Roman Emperor, but it's not what you'd expect.
He also takes us ii) to the temple in Jerusalem for the presentation of a first born son. This was a totally normal act of worship in any devout Jewish family, but the response of two people in the temple, and who they are is not what you’d expect.
Today Zane Elliott walks us through this passage with the theme 'Not what you'd expect' showing how God turns the world upside down with the birth, and presentation of Jesus the Messiah.
In this series a series exploring the Gospel of Luke, called 'Know with certainty.'
Zane Elliott will walk us through some key points in chapter 1 of Luke, and help us connect with Luke's goal of purpose - that his readers would know with certainty the things that have been handed down to them about Jesus. He wants his hearers to have full assurance that despite the difficulties of life Jesus is God's plan for salvation.
Neels Janse van Rensberg the CEO of the Bible Society of New Zealand opens Romans 10:14-18, and helps us think through the commission Christians have to participate in the Great Commission.
We come to the end of our journey with Abraham.
As we come to Abraham’s final days we are going to see that he was singularly committed to the purpose of God, in a way that comes with a great cost.
Like Abraham, believers, are called to pursue God’s purpose at great cost. He hadn’t seen the promises of God to him fulfilled, only in part, but he trusted God was as good as His word and would keep his covenant with him.
Today Zane Elliott walks us through the longest chapter in Genesis. Chapter 24 has a whopping 67 verses, and takes around ten minutes to read aloud.
Because it is such a huge chapter we won't be giving it a thorough line-by-line explanation, we are going to be touching down in a few places as we journey with Abraham’s servant, to find Isaac a wife.
We are going to stop along the way on his journey taking note of three particular ways that we see God’s providence at work, in the cosmic - the grand narrative of salvation history, and in the lives of individuals.
{slide 6} Because of God’s providence -
i) Believers pass on God’s purpose to the next generation vv.1-9
ii) Believers can be confident God leads them in His purpose vv.10-27
iii) Believers must give priority to God’s work, confident he will complete it vv.28-67
This week we are back in Genesis with Abraham, and we'll be thinking about the steadfast promises of God.
Walking with Abraham series 2 John 1:1-13; Genesis 22:20-23:20
In this sermon Simon Martin, the Vicar-General for the Diocese of Nelson opens 1 Peter 4:1-7 and helps the church think through what it means to live as Christian people in the light of the end - Jesus victorious return.
The theme, as we gather to remember the death and resurrection in the Lord's Supper is; Confidence in Christ's Example.
Zane Elliott opens 1 Peter 4:1-6 and helps us think through how Christians can arm ourselves with the mind of Christ as we face i) Pagan Opposition vv.3-4, then we'll see how we should live as exiles as we make ii) A Christian response vv.1-2 and then we'll remind ourselves of the iii) Christian confidence vv.5-6 we have as we fight the lures of life.
Confidence in Christ's Victory.
Zane Elliott opens 1 Peter 3:13-22, and helps us think through how we can face threats and opposition without fear, because we are safe and secure in Jesus' victory over death and sin. He will explore the passage using two main headings i) The threat of non-Christian Opposition vv.13-17 and ii) The basis of Christian confidence.
Today Zane Elliott opens 1 Peter 3:8-12, it's a short reading, which has a lot in it to help Christians consider how we can resist evil and do good in the life of the church, to the glory of God.
As we open this passage we'll be called to i)turn from sin vv.9-11, and ii) do good instead vv.8-9a,11 as we look for iii) a godly outcome vv.9b, 12.
In this sermon Zane Elliott helps us consider how we can resist evil and live for God's glory as exiles, as we carry out our lives in the workplace and the home.
We work through the passage by breaking it down into the following headings:
i) Living as exiles in the workplace 2:18-25a) The situation
b) Trace the pattern
c) A godly outcome ii) Living in the home 3:1-7a) Christian wives
b) A godly outcome
c) Christian husbands
A godly outcome
Today we remember the Ascension of the Lord Jesus, and reflect on what it means to have an ascended Lord.
Jean Palmer opens Acts 1:1-14, and Revelation 1:9-18 for us, and will help us consider the Ascension event, the significance of the Ascension, and the Ascended Christ.
As we open 1 Peter 2:4-10 today Zane Elliott builds on the main point from last week, and shows us that in the glorious new life God has given his people have A Glorious Purpose.
As We open this passage we'll consider
i)a new temple vv.4-8
it) a new identity vv.5,9
ill) a new purpose vv.9-10
As we continue in the series considering 'A hurting church' in 1 Peter John Palmer helps unpack Peter's insistence, and call for Christian's to be a holy people.
John works through this passage using these headers:
1) Getting our thinking straight (v.13)
2) Holy by the command of God (vv.15-16)
3) Holy as obedient children (v.14)
4) Holy because of the fear of the Lord (v.17)
5) Holy because of the cost of redemption (v.18)
6) How does it work?
In this message Zane Elliott helps us to see the glorious new life Jesus has granted to his followers, even though they are exiles in this world.
In this sermon Jean Palmer opens 1 Peter 1:3-12 as part of the series 'A hurting Church.' She explores the Hope that is held out to all Christians and works through the passage in three parts:
i) The Basis for Hope vv.3-5
ii) The Benefits of Hope vv.6-9
iii) The Privilege of Hope vv.10-12
This is the first sermon in a series in 1 Peter. Zane Elliott looks at the beginning and end of the letter Peter wrote to a hurting church, which was scattered across a hostile world, and helps us see Peter's reminder that Christians are i) Chosen by God and ii) Exiles in a hostile land.
He also highlights the three major thoughts Peter will develop through this book, as we walk through it together.
In this sermon Zane Elliott bring the series in James 'Test of Faith' to a close as we consider i) A warning to the wealthy, vv.1-6 and an encouragement ii) to persevere patiently vv.7-20.
a. With Endurance vv.7-8, 10-11
b. Without grumbling vv.8-9.
c. Seeking healing: vv.13-18
d. Pursuing the straying: vv.19-20
As acts of faithfulness to a faithful God.
John Palmer opens James 3 and helps us think through the kind of discipline Christians need to exercise over their tongues and lives.
Richard Drury from Barnabas Aid opens James 4 in this sermon.
He encourages us to trust the inevitability of the process of testing as we consider the i)Informing Gospel vv.1-5 and the dangers of a)uncontrolled passion, and b)a misplaced passion.
He helps us see the ii) Re-enunciating Gospel v.6
iii) The Conforming Gospel vv.7-12
and excites us as we think about the iv) Transforming Gospel vv.13-17
In this five week series called “test of faith” in the book of James. We are comparing faith in Jesus to a precious diamond; a beautiful stunning stone, something of great value, formed under immense heat and pressure.
But diamonds, can be faked - James is interested in the tests which shows the genuineness of our faith. He exhorts Christians to consider the trials of life, the heat and pressure which come our way joy, because they provide opportunities for us to endure in our faith, proving its genuineness, and allowing us to take hold of the wonderful reward of the crown of life; life with God forever.
In this series we’ll think about the same tests that define the value of a diamond: cut - the cutting words that roll off our tongues; do we control our words?
We’ll consider the colour - do we have a coloured view of the poor?
We’ll examine the clarity of our faith; Do we keep ourselves pure, flawless from the influences of thought and worldview which aren’t compatible with Christianity? Those key tests for the quality of diamonds, are going to be the tests we apply to ascertain the quality of our faith in Jesus.
In this sermon Zane Elliott considers the issue of i) favouritism in the life of the church, before we move on to ii) two types of faith; Faith that believes, faith that deceives.
Not all diamonds are created equal; they are evaluated, and tested using four criteria - Cut, clarity, colour, and carat.
Over the next five weeks we are going to work through the Book of James under the heading “Test of faith.” Like a precious gem, a stunning diamond we are going to closely examine our faith in Jesus. We are going to put it under the microscope and check for flaws and imperfections, to prove it’s value.
This morning we’ll start by seeing how James describes
i) The trials of life vv.1-12, ii)The nature of tests and temptations vv.13-18 and ii) three key tests, which prove our faith is the real deal vv.19-27
In this book we've seen that God's Kingdom creates a new vision of humanity, where an unprecedented, unparalleled equality is shared by everyone In Christ.
This week he is called to put that reality into action, as he deals with a former slave, Onesimus, who has wronged him.
That equality, that topsy-turvy, power altering reality not only means Philemon is to swim against the tide of the culture in how he responds, he is going to have to set aside his rights, and seek reconciliation with Onesimus in a way that is costly - costly personally, and costly financially. As we walk through this passage today we’ll spend some time thinking about i) Onesimus’s guilt, and ii)Philemon’s response to it.
As we open Philemon 1.8-16 and come face to face with the internal conflict Philemon faces with the return of his former slave Onesimus we’ll dive deeper into i) what Philemon ought to do, ii) and the basis of Paul’s appeal for him to do it. Paul calls for reconciliation, in the Spirit of the Lord Jesus, who is the great reconciler - reconciling us to each other; and reconciling us to his Heavenly Father.
This preaching series is in the post-card sized letter of Philemon. It's a short piece of the Bible which can be read in under three minutes, but it packs a big punch as it calls Christians to live out their faith in a radical way. Check it out here.
In this sermon Zane Elliott our senior minister will open Philemon 1:1-7, and help us;
i) Get to know Philemon vv.1-3,
before we take a look at
ii) two prayers for Philemon vv.4-7
a) a prayer of thanks for his faith and love, and
b) a prayer that both would deepen even more.
Simon Martin, Vicar-General and Bishop's Chaplain opens Psalm 13 and helps us to think through how we can lament in a way that is godly.
In Psalm 73 Asaph grapples with the reality that life doesn't seem fair for God's people. The godless prosper, and the godly suffer.
In this Psalm, Zane Elliott divides it into three areas for us to examine;
i)Asaph's crisis of faith vv.1-3
ii) The godless seem to proser vv.4-14
ii) The godly truly prosper vv.15-28.
In Psalm 19 Zane Elliott shows how God reveals His goodness, generally in all that he has made in vv.1-6, and then more specifically in His Word vv.7-14.
Today we start a short series in the Psalms over summer.
As we start a New Year we are going to think about some of the trials and challenges which might come our way, as we open Psalm 29 which calls on heavenly beings to ascribe greatness to the Lord.
We'll see that as his people we can i) Give Him the honour He is due, ii) Remember His power vv.3-9 and iii) Live knowing He is the King in Heaven.
In the the fourth week of Advent we are opening Luke 1:57-80, where we are pointed to Jesus in John's birth, and Zechariah's song of blessing
In this sermon Simon Martin unpacks God's grace as shown to Mary and Zechariah as he surveys chapter one of Luke's Gospel, landing on Mary's song on praise; sometimes known as the magnificat.
He helps Christians think through their own responses to God's grace, and how we might 'glorify' or 'magnify' God's name.
Not all pregnancy announcements feel like good news. They can bring a whole range of emotions.
In the second week of Advent Zane Elliott opens Luke 1:26-38, and the announcement of a pregnancy which causes us to ask 'What child is this?'
As we walk through the passage and come to grips with the Angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary we'll spend some time with i) the expectant mother vv.26-30 before we consider the ii) unexpected child vv.31-33 and finally iii)a surprising response vv.34-38 to this unexpected news.
As we kick off the season advent Zane Elliott opens Luke's Gospel and we see how God is at work, and we think through how Luke's Gospel is a bit like 'Ripley's believe it or not.'
In the Passage today we will spend some time with Luke's friend Theophilus as we ask whether he can believe it or not? vv.1-4, then we'll move to the Temple to an unbelievable encounter vv.5-17, before we see two responses to that encounter vv.18-25.
Today we hear from Bishop Steve, via video, as we end this church year, and prepare to begin a new church year in a season of discernment as a parish, and a Diocese.
A sermon this week from Alice Kinyua, the Intercultural Mission Enabler for the NZ Church Missionary Society
The sermon today comes to us from the Bishop's Chaplain/Vicar General, the Rev Canon Simon Martin.
Another in our series of walking with Abraham. We will be considering an unbelievable visit (Verses 1-8) and some unbelievable news (Verses 9-15)
Today we are going to be in a monumental chapter, Genesis 17. Once again God speaks to Abram and enhances the covenant he has made with him previously.
Today as we walk through this passage we will consider:
i) God's promises and pledge vv.1-8, 15-16.
ii) The Sign of the Covenant vv.9-14
iii) Abraham's Response vv.17-27
In Genesis 16 we come across Sarai and Abram; later renamed Abraham, who have been waiting for God to show up and fulfil a promise made ten long years earlier.
As Zane Elliott opens this passage we see two contrasting ideas.
i) Human doubt vv.1-6. Doubt plays on Sarai’s mind, and she finds her own solution, instead of waiting on God.
Then we will be reminded of;
ii) God’s faithfulness vv.7-16.
Even in the disaster which follows, God's Faithfulness is a theme which has come up time and time again as we’ve been walking with Abraham, walking with God.
In this chapter God reassures Abram that his word is true, and his promises will come to pass.
Zane Elliott explores the passage by looking at the following headings:
i) Abram trusts God's Word vv.1-5
ii) Abram is justified by faith v.6
iii) God shows His Word can be trusted vv.7-21
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity Richmond on Sunday 7th August 2022.
In this sermon we see how an International conflict threatens to interfere with God's promise to give Abram the land of Canaan. God's faithfulness shines through.
We explore the passage in three sections;
i) An international conflict vv1-12
ii) Abram's victory vv.13-16
iii) Two Kings, Two choices vv.17-24.
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity Richmond.
Regional Dean, Lynda Moses unpacks chapter four of John's Gospel around the theme 'Rescue and restoration.'
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity Richmond on 17th July 2022
We join a journey with Abram from Egypt back to Canaan. We'll be thinking through what it means to live by faith not sight as he faces a choice; to trust the promises of God, or make decisions based on what he can see in front of him.
We'll use the following headers to help guide us:
i) Abram Returns vv.1-4
ii) Strife with Lot vv.5-7
iii) Faith or Sight? vv.8-13
iv) A Promise renewed vv.14-18
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity in Richmond.
In this sermon we follow Abram to Egypt, where he lets his fear overcome his faith in God's promise. Instead of trusting God Abram takes control of the situation with disastrous consequences.
Today's message will help us see:
i) Abram's Fear vv.10-12
ii) Abram's Deception vv.13-16
iii) God's Faithfulness vv.17-20
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity Richmond, on Sunday 3rd July 2022.
In this sermon Zane Elliott begins the series 'Walking with Abraham, Walking with God.'
We consider the call to faithful obedience and the costs of that obedience, for the people of God.
Zane walks us through this passage using the following headings;
i) God's Call 11:27-12:1
ii) God's Promise 12:2-3
iii) Abram's response 12:4-9
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity Richmond on Sunday 26th June, 2022.
In this sermon Zane Elliott is taking us on a 'cruise ship approach' as we remind ourselves of some of the great truths we discovered in the first part of the Book of Genesis in 2021. We will pick up Genesis again next week as we "walk with Abraham" until the season of Advent.
Today's Sermon will follow three main movements:
i) A perfect beginning (chapters 1 & 2)
ii) The spread of deadly venom (chapters 3 to 8)
iii) A new beginning (chapters 9-11:9)
Reading Genesis 1-2:3 and Genesis 11:1-9 will be helpful, reading all eleven chapters would be even better.
Andrew Burgess, Dean of Bishopdale College unpacks the Doctrine of the Trinity, as shorthand for the Good News of Jesus.
On Pentecost we remember the outpouring of God's Holy Spirit on the Apostles. It was a history-changing moment. A long awaited promise was fulfilled.
Zane Elliott opens Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:1-17 and helps us answer the question 'Why was the Holy Spirit given to believers?'
We see that it was so:
i) Believers could prophesy
ii) So that we could be saved:
a) Saved from what?
b) Saved to what?
This sermon was originally preached on Sunday 5th June, 2022.
In this sermon Simon Martin, Vicar-General and Bishop's Chaplain in the Diocese of Nelson opens Acts 1:1-11 and helps us see the importance and impact of the Ascension of Jesus.
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity Richmond on May 29th 2022.
Zane Elliott takes a sermon originally written in 1547 by Archbishop Thomas Cranmer, which was then translated by Lee Gatiss in 2020, and localises it for us.
In this sermon we will explore:
i)What we are before God
a. Ashes & Dust
b. Sinners
ii) Our inability to change
iii) Our marvelous hope
This sermon was preached at Holy Trinity Richmond, in New Zealand on Sunday 22nd May 2022.
If you'd like more information on the Book of Homilies (2020) you can find it here: https://www.churchsociety.org/the-first-book-of-homilies-in-modern-english/
Zane Elliott takes a sermon originally written in 1547 by Archbishop Thomas Cranmer, which was then translated by Lee Gatiss in 2020, and localises it for us.
In this sermon we will explore:
The usefulness of Scripture
The power of Scripture
Ignorance of the Scripture
The Difficulty of Scripture
This sermon was preached at Holy Trinity Richmond, in New Zealand on Sunday 15th May 2022.
In the final message in this series Zane Elliott helps us see that Jesus is in the business of redeeming broken people. Peter is restored to ministry, even after denying he ever knew Jesus.
We being with an awkward question in vv.15-19, then follow Peter, Jesus and John as they walk on the beach vv.20-23, and finally, to round off the work we’ve been doing in this Gospel, we’ll see John’s Conclusion in vv.24 & 25.
Zane Elliott opens the first part of John 21, and shows us that in the new resurrection reality Jesus brought his disciples full-circle to their call.
In this passage we consider: i) The Setting vv.1-7
ii) Peter's response to recognising Jesus v.8
iii) The re-emphasis on Jesus' expectations vv.9-14
Zane Elliott helps us consider our expectations of the Risen Jesus, as we see Jesus' Peace and Jesus' mandate for his followers.
In this message Zane Elliott helps us consider our expectations of Jesus as we walk with Mary, Peter and John to the empty tomb.
In this passage Zane Elliott introduces us to Titus and Paul as he i)sets the scene' (vv. 1&4), then he helps us see ii)Paul's purpose v.1, iii)our Hope v.2 and how that is brought to light iv) through proclamation v.3.
I'f you'd like to read the passage click here
This sermon was originally preached at Holy Trinity Richmond on Sunday 20th February 2022.
As we open Psalm 33 Zane Elliott helps us to see that we are called to Praise God (v.1-3) who is blessing His people (v.4-11) and offers true security (vv.16-22).
This is the last of the Summer Psalms for 2022.
Jean Palmer shows the importance of praising God for our personal and collective faith as she opens Psalm 146.
This week we open what is probably the most famous Psalm, Psalm 23.
As we open this Psalm we will see we have nothing to fear in this life, or eternity as the Psalmist shows us God as Shepherd, and God and Host which are both amplified in Jesus.
In the first sermon in this series Zane Elliott opens Psalm 40 and helps us see that despite the troubles that come our way in this life we have a God who is good to save, a God who we must respond to.
This sermon was preached on 16th January 2022
In this sermon Zane Elliott unpacks Psalm 73 and helps us to walk through Asaph’s crisis of faith vv.1-3, his reflection that The godless seem to prosper vv.4-14 and the realisation that The godly truly prosper vv.15-28.
This sermon was preached on 23rd January, 2022.