River Church UK: Recent Episodes
River Church in Maidenhead, Marlow, Slough and Englefield Green
Be enriched and encouraged as you listen to the latest talks and music from River Church. We believe in a personal relationship with God which is made possible by the life, death and resurrection of his Son, Jesus Christ; and that relationship affects everything we do. Our experience is that the supernatural power of God, which we read about in the Bible, can still be known today in our own lives (You can expect one to three new MP3 podcast episodes each week).
Prayer is a constant part of our lifestyle, we can speak to God wherever and whenever, and He will speak to us too.
The three 'Wisdom' books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Job are there for a reason! Let's really dig into them over the next 6 weeks.
This week we invited guest speaker Paula Western from New Generation Church, Sidcup, and member of the Pioneer Leadership team to speak at our River Gathering.
Andy introduces this new teaching series which will be looking the Bible's three 'wisdom' books: Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Job. God has created us as freewill beings, empowered to make choices, intended for a loving relationship with Him. He wants us to walk with Him and look to Him for guidance in all of life. He has also sewn Wisdom into the fabric of our lives to help us make good choices.
There is a call to come closer, to rely and trust in the Lord with all our heart, put Him 1st again
This is the 'for the adults' part of Tina's talk at October's family meeting, in which she looks at the sixth fruit of the Spirit and reflects on the meaning of Goodness, and its challenges.
God has called us to pray: 'Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you' (Matthew 7:7)Hear testimonies of healing.
Global charity World Vision has a long history of taking action that transforms the world. Their focus is on helping the most vulnerable children, in the most difficult places, overcome poverty and experience fullness of life. Matt shares about his role and in particular the "Chosen" initiative in Uganda.
Practice sharing the Gospel with others, ... do not waste any opportunity, as it may be their last one!
Anthea explores the Lord's Prayer, concluding by encouraging us all to pray it regularly, just as Jesus did. She also stresses the importance of coming together to pray..... after all, it's the "Our Father", not the "My Father".
Gary discusses the need for openness, confession and vulnerability in our walk with Christ
Matt outlines the 'mission' opportunities in the Marlow and High Wycombe area that River leads or supports, which anyone can get involved with.
Looking at people's examples in the Bible who made space for Jesus, and how it changed their lives. Jesus can do the same for each one of us.
very word spoken by God is always relevant. The commandments are a guide to right and wrong and a promise of blessing when followed
Paul and Karen bring different perspectives on the challenges of being radically inclusive. Firstly Paul looks at the biblical narrative and interviews Emma to ask her advice on how to reach out to those with disabilities. Then Karen reflects on some of the tough challenges she has faced in living with and loving people who she found it very hard to get along with in her own strength.
Sue and Jacob explore the account of Jesus' encounter with Zacchaeus, and the lessons and challenges it has for us today.
let's walk in the power and authority that has been given to us and let the glory of the Lord be revealed.
Amy and Matt bring their perspectives on Ruth and Boaz. Matt encourages us to 'Be more Boaz', whilst Amy reminds us that God loves all people regardless of race, nationality or status
Russell and John consider what the Macedonian Church can teach us about how surrender to God and faith in Him will lead to amazingly generous actions.
This is the 'for the adults' part of Jill's talk at July's family meeting, in which she considers the fourth fruit of the Spirit.
God told Joshua, 'As I was with Moses, so I will be with you'. And all the promises of God in Him are yes and Amen to the glory of God through us.The same God, the same Holy Spirit that worked through Moses, is the same God working through us today.
Geoff and Colleen bring their perspectives on this Old Testament account of how God healed a non-believer of his leprosy, and its relevance for us today. (Reading by Jane Turnbull)
using 2 Peter 1:5-7 as key verses talking about how we need to try to participate in the divine nature as even though we fail it’s our failures which enables us to draw on God’s grace and allow his Spirit to transform us.
Anna kicks off our new teaching series which will be exploring three more of River's core values - Inclusive, Non-religious and Generous - with a look at the first of these.
Emanuel explains how we can contribute to - and participate in - the final chapter of the Book of Acts.
This is the 'for the adults' part of Alison Hopkinson's talk at June's family meeting, in which she looks at the fifth fruit of the Spirit and encourages us to follow the example of several kindness leaders.
In the final talk in our teaching series in Acts with a focus on Mission, Andy leaves us as individuals and as a body with 3 key questions: in the context of mission, who are we called to be; what are we called to do; and where are we called to go?
On Pentecost Sunday Anthea Wratten challenges us to consider what kind of mission God is calling us to right now.
Drawing on the example of her own family history Jill considers some of the lessons of Acts Chapters 21-23
This is the 'for the adults' part of Sandra talk at May's family meeting, in which she looks at the third fruit of the Spirit - Peace - and links it with Presence. (apologies for the poor sound quality in a few places)
Mission is the presence of God’s kingdom that often confronts prevailing culture. What does it take to be a pilgrim? Pilgrims stay open to the Spirit and keep learning about their faith; understand that God is always working, going ahead of us; and carry God’s grace to be a blessing to others.
Mission is often pragmatic. How is God leading you? Choose to see His hand, and don’t give up. Need a turning point? Set you minds on things above, praise & pray. God will work a wonder - in your circumstances, or in your heart (but probably both!)(Apologies, no video version this week)
One-Anothering" as Florence called it this week, a challenge to pray for one another deeply each day till Pentecost the day the Holy Spirit fell on the early church, and our prayers for that same infilling on each other.
Leadership, values and culture in the early church. Acts 15 describes how things radically changed when the status quo was smashed by three key factors which fundamentally shifted the debate: the power of testimony, a move of the Holy Spirit amongst a new people group, and the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy.
Emanuel gives a quick overview of the four parts of his ministry - Research, Publish, Coach and Train. The impact it's having across many nations is amazing.
Guest speaker Linda (leader of the London region of the Pioneer Network), speaks from John 20 about the encounter that Mary Magdalene had with Jesus on that first Easter Sunday. Never forget that Jesus knows YOUR name!
Andy considers the nature of Mission as presented in Acts 13 and 14: it was highly inclusive and Spirit Inspired. Also it was Spirit Empowered in terms of signs and wonders and the amazing impact it had on cities and regions.
Following his denial of Christ, focussing on how in his passion he had to get to the end of himself before he was restored.
Emanuel takes us on an 'unboxing' of Acts 6-12, pointing out the ways in which truth was told and love was shown to demonstrate that the good news is for anyone and everyone.
Count It All Joy.even in the middle of stuff and nonsense we can "count it all joy" because we have God's promise that He will never leave us.
Nigel takes a look at the challenges posed in trying to apply some of what happened in 1st Century Palestine to our lives in 21st Century Marlow.
This year in our family-friendly meetings (on the first Sunday of every month) we'll be looking at the fruit of the Spirit. Jonny continues the series, this time looking at Joy.
Dorothy takes us on a journey, looking at 4000 fed. We can be like Jesus- available, giving thanks, offering what we have and sharing Jesus with those around us, for His glory and His kingdom
Paul kicks off our new teaching series based in Acts by looking at how the Holy Spirit fills and empowers us for mission.
God wants us to be victorious as we obey him to posses the land before us. So he encourages us to be.Strong in our convictionStrong in our commitmentStrong in courage. (FROM JOSHUA 1. 1-9)
Anthea considers some of the ways we're called to Walk, Eat, and Serve together in 2024
Sabbath isn’t just a day to stop, rest, and throw a feast in community. Ultimately, it’s a holy day — set apart for and dedicated to God himself. Early Christians called it “the Lord’s Day.” It’s a weekly day of worship by which we cultivate a spirit of worship all week long.
Preparing the way( Luke 18). It was the excitement of those that went ahead of Jesus, that ignited the hope in the blind man to call out to Him
This year in our family-friendly meetings (on the first Sunday of every month) we'll be looking at the fruit of the Spirit. Jill kicks off the series considering Love.
Sabbath is not an onerous day for dour religious duty, but a life-giving day of delight — a weekly party. It’s a full day set aside to celebrate our life with God in his world. And it’s designed to be done in community, not alone. Few things are more provocative in the modern world than communities of joy.
We hear about Sabbath rest and we imagine sleeping or taking a day off to chill. But Sabbath rest is a form of resistance. There are powerful forces — both external and internal — that war against a Sabbath spirituality. To sabbath will require that we resist.
Taking a look at the faithfulness of God to us and being faithful to share that knowledge with oth
The word “sabbath” means “to stop.” In Genesis, God worked for six days but then rested on the seventh. In doing so, he built a rhythm into the fabric of creation. When we live in alignment with this ancient rhythm, we find peace and joy, but when we fight it, we fracture our souls.
Paul and Anthea unpack various aspects of what makes our church community what it is, and outline what's distinctive about us.
Andy rounds off our Ephesians teaching series with a look at chapter 6, weaving it together with strands from earlier talks.
Paul considers the importance of being guided by the Holy Spirit in all aspects of our lives, but particularly in the context of our families.
In ministry and general life of the Believer of Jesus,we often will find ourselves frustrated with thetimings of God! It is this challenge that many hasand will continue to face as we live a life ofdiscipleship, servanthood, and generalambassedorship of The Kingdom of God
Anthea encourages us not to 'skip ahead to the end' in this Christmas season, but to savour the next 3 weeks as a time for waiting, longing and ongoing discovery.
Jill speaks from Ephesians 4 on what it means to be church, that relationships are key.
Anthea encourages us collectively to continue responding to the Spirit by offering ourselves to be shaped to become God's people, living God's story, so that people are drawn to Christ. This is where mission begins.
(2 Corinthians 10:5 ) Casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God and Bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ…what are YOU thinking today?
Even when we feel at a low, God doesn't change, He is still working out His promises for us
Speaking from Ephesians 3 Colin considers our charismatic distinctive, and brings a challenge - have we settled, or are we pressing on?
Friend of River and guest speaker Freddy of the charity Asha (www.asha-india.org) speaks about grace, washing feet and reaching out in multiple ways to the poor of the slums of Delhi.
God's breath is in us, as it was at the beginning of time still in us today, creating new life, new hope and new beginnings
Watch How You Walk! Nigel speaks from Ephesians 2, encouraging us to be obedient and faithful in all we've been called to be. It's not a question of whether we have ever been filled with the Spirit, but are we letting Him fill us today. Do we listen for the whisper of His voice, and know the strength of His presence, the fire of His anointing and the comfort of His dwelling place?
Andy introduces our new teaching series, which is based in Ephesians. We'll be looking in particular at the work of the Holy Spirit both then and now.
John 9. Even when those around were ready to stone Him, Jesus stopped and took time to heal the man born blind. Jesus didn't wait for the perfect time
Living with a destiny in Christ demands that we know what and who the opposition might be. Identify and deal with it, walk in the kingdom of God mindset and reach your destiny.
Finding glorious and inexpressible joy by understanding how much God loves us, how He gives us hope for the future and how He uses our difficult circumstances to draw us closer to Him.
Julie talks about what she feels has been on her heart, a time of Reconciliation that can need humility from us
Jonny speaks about the message of the Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl in Matthew 13, and what they tell us about how much God loves us.
A deeper look at Proverbs 4 20-23. God's Word is life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh
Nigel rounds off our current teaching series looking at Mark 16, explaining the pitfalls of putting too much emphasis on either the crucifixion or resurrection. "Crucifisurrection" living involves balancing the sacrifice of the cross with the power of the resurrection?, so that we don't live in limited- or un- reality.
Anthea calls the church to a renewed commitment to Fasting in the context of our vision and values.
Looking at the Gift of Wisdom in action from Genesis thru to today's life. Seeing how God's wisdom is free and accessible to all who will ask..."so that" God gets the Glory
Of the many scenes described in this eventful chapter Paul considers three in particular, involving an unnamed woman, an unnamed man, and a named disciple; and considers what they can say to us about where our focus should be.
At this month's special family meeting Keith speaks first to the children and then to the adults about Jesus' encounter with Bartimaeus.
Speaking from Mark chapters 12 and 13, Anthea explores the gospel's overarching themes of Kingdom and Messiah, finding the sensitivity and deep compassion of Jesus as he leaves us with an answer, the greatest commandment.
Andy examines the lessons for followers of Jesus (ie us!) that can be drawn from these two chapters under the headings of Fame, Fruitfulness and Focus.
A two part talk for our June Family Meeting - part 1 aimed at the kids, part 2 at the adults considering how we can be compassionate in the way Jesus was.
Seeing in the Word how to stop distractions from the world preventing the promises of God coming to us. Get in the Word. Stay in the Word. Stand on the Word
The world is hungry for good character (how we behave when no one is looking). Let's build this by being authentic, honest and pure, and develop our gifting by showing courage and exercising our 'faith muscles'. In turn let's give away from the goodness of what we have, to bless others.
revival history tells us behind every revival there were prayer intercessors praying the revival in. To see revival in our land we also need to get praying fervently and relentlessly with love and compassion in our hearts for the lost.
Subtitle: Cast your bread upon the waters. Nigel draws out five challenges to being students of Jesus shown in these verses (Mark 6:30-8:38), and considers His 'other-ness'.
NEVER doubt that Jesus cares deeply for you and understands everything you're going through. Let's trust in His unfailing love.
His children, His chosen people. All called to 'go' into the world and spread His word, with the promise of Holy Spirit for us too.
Andy introduces our new teaching series, describing Mark's Gospel as being like a Bond movie. People at the time responded to Jesus in different ways: some were attracted, some approached in desperation and others came to confront Him. What is our primary response?
Colin considers the boundless favour that God shows us - it's immeasurable, incomparable and far exceeds and surpasses what we deserve or are able to comprehend. Through it he offers us the highest honour and the deepest rest. Let's receive first this grace, then give it away to others.
Many in the UK know at some level what Easter is, but few really understand what it's for. Paul reminds us that the main reason is to enable us to be at one with God; free to be in communion with Him, to participate with Him, and to be changed by Him. So let's give 'em that 'what for'!
Emanuel explains how we can be inspired to worship by responding to God's SONG - His word speaking to us through scripture (S), through others (O), via nature (N) and as a result of the good gifts (G) He gives.
Nigel speaks about the need to have an attitude of gratitude; always to be praising; and the value of adoration in creation. He leaves us with the question: how can I experience a new song of joy in my life?
seek God, spend time in His presence getting to know Him better. From this place we can grow and allow Him to work through us to see His miracles, signs and wonders in the world around us.
Paul talks about learning to lament well: it's a journey of permission where we are invited to share all our feelings with God, but one to we need to stick with, as there are no shortcuts. Finally it's a journey of hope, since it has the clear purpose of leading us back to a place of praise.
Julie looks at the story in Exodus where the Israelites were told to cleanse themselves ready for the coming of God, and then how Jesus did that for us
Andy describes lament in his own life and explains how it's different to despair; also that it's normal, natural and definitely not the end of the story.
Bijay is pastor of New Horizons Christian Fellowship in Damak, Nepal, and is staying with Paul & Anthea for a couple of days before returning home after the Pioneer International and Pioneer UK conferences in Southampton last week. In this talk he shares from 1 Kings 11 before describing the challenges his church faces in reaching out to their community, and some of their successful initiatives.
There are many types of justice; Legal, Political, Social and Economic. Our starting point needs to be humility, then we need to learn how truly to love mercy, and as a result we are more likely to act with justice.
Isaiah 45:5 'I am the Lord and there is no other, apart from me there is no God’. All the glory belongs to our Heavenly Father and creator.
At this month's special family meeting Sandra spoke to the adults about the need to be intentional about building (Godly) character, and describes the power of inviting and receiving feedback from others about how we're doing.
Taking a look at how we often want a loophole to get out of doing what God wants,, from the story of The Good Samaritan in Luke 10.
Anthea argues that probably one of the greatest threats to Faith today is distraction, so the regular practice of silence in the presence of God is essential to a healthy spiritual life. After all, Jesus needed regular time in quiet places, so surely we do too.
Dorothy encourages us to read the Bible, the living word of God. Read in relationship with Holy Spirit and hear from the Lord for ourselves.
Nigel considers what it is about a worshipping community that is so special. When God sees hearts given wholeheartedly to Him, He will draw close.
Andy kicks off our new Psalms-based teaching series 'Worship In All Of Life" with a look at WHAT worship is, HOW we should read the Psalms and WHO (what version of ourselves) should we bring when we worship.
Paul kicks off the New Year reflecting on the new song he believes God will reveal to us as a church community in 2023. Let's be patient and expectant.
We can come boldly to the Throne, knowing who we are because of Jesus, and use the authority He gave us for the Fathers glory
This 'Letter to the Marlovian Church' was pulled together by Nigel based on our studies in Philippians and the post-it notes many of the church contributed at the meeting two weeks ago.
Recorded at Marlow's December family meeting, here are two preaches for the price of one: 5 minutes for the youngsters and a 7 minute challenge for the adults.
Paul summarises the previous eight talks of our 'Letters From Then For Now - Philippians' series and then invites us to consider and write down what God has been saying to us individually,
The Apostle Paul was in prison when he wrote to the Philippian church, so it's remarkable that he was able to talk about being content (having peace) in all circumstances. Paul W discusses several aspects of peace including having inner peace and peace with others, with the help of a 16th Century nun.
Anthea questions why we tend not to really 'press on' in our faith and asks us to think about what diverts us from wholehearted discipleship.
How do we cope when life is unsure and we can't see the way ahead clearly? Do we need certainty? No, let's put our faith entirely in Jesus, not in our own abilities (or those of anyone else).
when we are in the presence of Jesus, we see the possibilities of who we can be in Him, and not who we are in the natural
Phil considers how the challenges Paul laid out in Philippians 2 apply to us in today's world in Marlow.
The Greek word we translate as ‘humility’ meant 'lowliness' in the Roman mind, but Jesus’ humility was rooted in the knowledge of who He was, and was anything but weak. Let's follow His example of service and honouring others.
learning how to use the Word of God to stop the enemy from invalidating our walk with God.
Nigel explains one of the key challenges for us from Chapter 1: whatever happens, we must keep living our lives based on the reality of the gospel of Christ.
Anthea looks at the Parable of the Sower from a different angle: perhaps the emphasis should be more on the extravagance of the sower than the condition of the soil onto which the seed falls.
Jill examines why it is we can have such confidence in God; both in the power of His love, and in particular in our identity in Christ .... after all, we are citizens of heaven!
Andy kicks off our new teaching series which will see us working through Philippians. He overviews its main themes which we will explore over the weeks from now until Christmas. The talk was preceded by a reading of the entire Book by Anthea, Mick and Scott: that file is also available for download.
Colin speaks not about saying 'Sorry' but rather about explaining our hope: "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have". How can we respond when we get asked tricky questions about our faith?
As part of this month's family meeting Phil brings some new perspectives on the Parable of the Lost Sheep.
Doubt is rarely talked about in church but Emanuel argues that it's a necessary part of our journey to maturity in our faith, meaningful for all of us no matter how long we've been Christians.
We are invited to drink from the spring of the water of life at no cost. What an invitation!
Anthea wraps up the 'Holiness and Hope in a Hostile World' teaching series with a look at the 'Hidden Life' chapter of the 'Be still' book. She encourages us to keep pressing in on God, especially via our quiet times. If things have become dry, push on through; and well done for the progress you have made already.
Al considers what Paul expresses in 1 Thessalonians 5 about how we should relate to people around us, particularly those in authority in both secular and church environments.
Paul considers why we sometimes find it so difficult to go deeper with God, with the help of some parables from Peter Rollins. Will you accept the open invitation?
Nigel considers Paul's exhortation that we should live as though Jesus's return is imminent, and encourages us to be alert but also not to get distracted in trying to work out when or exactly how it will happen.
Nigel encourages us to cultivate a habit of wonder and to be aware of barriers which can prevent us doing so i.e. distractions, busyness, dissatisfaction and disappointment.
Two talks about the parable of the Wise and Foolish builders for the price of one - one version for kids, one for the grown-ups. How strong and deep are your spiritual foundations?
Perseverance requires repetition, it means not easing up even when we don’t see results, and persevering makes us stronger. Jonny challenges us about whether there are areas of our life in which we need to persevere (more): is there a project that's incomplete, or a relationship that's been neglected? Have we stopped praying for someone because of unanswered prayer, or promised to help them but never actually got round to doing so?
Let's abound in love, not living in lust, lawlessness or legislation, and let us aspire to inspire others through our love for everyone we meet.
Ken is pastor at Newfield Community Church, and here was the speaker at the Marlow Churches Together service in Higginson Park on Regatta Sunday
Our hope is in the Lord and He is always faithful and true. As He prepares us for what comes next, we may be asked to trust in the unusual but He will make a way
The Apostle Paul stated that the Thessalonian church was his "crown, glory and joy". Paul Wratten encourages us to reinvigorate our longing for church, to renew our commitment to one another and also to recommit to praying for each other.
God has invested so much in us. Costas talks about how we need to learn how to be silent when God is speaking to us.
Andy considers the use of scripture in quiet times, likening it to a telescope which can help us to look back, forward, up, in and out.
Julie talks about removing those things that hinder us from reaching our full potential that the Lord has planned for us.
Do you have regular quality time, ideally each day, when you're quiet before God, to connect with Him and to hear His voice? Keith encourages and challenges us all to do so. We all need 'chair time': It's about rhythm / regularity / being intentional, and also about encountering / responding / intimacy / revelation / action.
Andy kicks off our new teaching series Holiness and Hope in a Hostile World (based on 1 Thessalonians). Is it possible for the Christian faith to survive and thrive in a world that’s indifferent at best and hostile at worst? What does such a faith look like – at home, at work, and in other places where Christ’s people find themselves? And what kind of church does it take to sustain that vision?
Resting with the Lord, and allowing Him to take the lead, and work with and through us, accomplishes so much more than we could ever strive to do in our own strength
Grace trumps Law, and Love always wins! But there is also a need for us to repent when we've distorted God's message through clumsy use of language and uncaring attitudes, and for whenever we misrepresent Him.
What do you see in the story of Easter - really see? Paul explains why this is so important - because what we understand about Jesus will shape every aspect of our life.
Listen as Dorothy tells Peter's, Mary Magdalene's and a friend of Jesus's story over the time of crucifixion.
Keith encourages us to bring God's salvation to others by allowing Jesus to transform us in every part of our lives. Let's consistently spend more time in the quiet place so that He can do just that.
Jonny encourages us to share Jesus from the heart. And let's be kind not just to one another and the people to whom we are close, but even to those who we disagree with.
We were created to represent God on earth, so learning to host his presence is vital. Colin considers what this means and what helps us do so.
Believing who we are in Christ, enables us to partner with Holy Spirit and walk in God's plan and purpose for our lives
Jesus taught us what a servant heart really means. He didn't just wash the disciples feet, He washed us completely from all our sins
Ali discusses what it means to be set apart, and the kind of servanthood to which we are called. Let's go deeper with God so we know with clarity how He wants us individually to respond.
Dorothy looks at Jesus, Moses and David, who knew God's heart well, as she encourages us to represent Him well too.
Representing God - making the world a better place. Geoff looks back over the last 100 years and asserts that despite the awful situation playing out in the Ukraine things the world has got better in so many ways in that time.
Nigel speaks about new and old wineskins, challenging us to think differently. Has "in or out" theology been restricting us, and hampering God working through us?
Phil encourages us to ensure that we make space for rhythms of Rest, Celebration and Generosity in our busy lives.
To God’s presence - To what God is doing around us - To God’s plans and his purposes - To his glory - To not putting Jesus on equal footing with anyone else - To misconceptions about God - To who we are in him - To bringing our praises to him in all circumstances.
Julie talks about the benefits of a daily rhythm of spending time with the Lord. Psalm 103 Bless the Lord O my soul, and forget not all His benefits
Andy examines the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness following his baptism and explains how we can apply his responses when we ourselves are tempted.
We're free to live for God, and to make choices: this doesn't mean life will be storm-free, but no matter what happens, God is always with us. However, will we choose safety or adventure?
Inspired by Pete Greig's book 'how to pray' Dorothy encourages us through Pause, Rejoice, Ask and Yield.
Paul kicks off our new reading and teaching series "Living The Story In a New Day" with a talk about walking in faith
- Be strong and courageous to inherit the land
- Be strong and courageous to inherit the land
- Be strong and courageous, do not be discouraged POINTS FOR US
- Be strong in conviction
- Be strong in commitment
- Be strong in courage
Nigel emphasises the simple truth that the depth of our love for Jesus is far more important that what we understand and believe intellectually (as important as that is). What does Jesus mean to you?
Continuing on from Steve Clifford's message at last week's River Together, Paul considers what it means for us specifically in River Marlow, and how to run the race well.
At the meeting formally marking the day when River Church became four River Churches, Steve asserts that now is not the time for settling down, but rather there is plenty more to come, so let's run together.
Julie talks about God being good all the time and how we can look at our struggles as a time of preparation, just like fertiliser for the season of bloom that's coming
Anthea encourages use of the Examen Prayer to reflect in a structured way on the last 12 months and set ourselves up for 2022.
Jesus - the God who healed the sick and delivered the oppressed, who keeps His promises, who cares for everyone on the planet (especially those who often get overlooked) - brought and still brings light to the world. Jesus came to dispel darkness and to show us the way to wholeness and freedom from fear. Let's turn to Him again this Christmas. (Bonus content - the video starts with Jonny's superb animation enhancing Sheila's song 'Oh What Love').
Phil reflects on the themes that have emerged from some of our recent talks, and how our faith needs to be outworked in 3 areas - between God and each of us privately, between us as the members of River Marlow, and finally the aspect that faces outwards into the wider community.
What implications does it have for us that Jesus stated to His disciples "YOU are the Light of the World"? Light attracts, guides and it overcomes the darkness, and Andy challenges us to seek to do the same with God's help.
"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." Nigel considers four key themes of Serving, Martyrdom, Lordship and Glory.
Colin considers what it means to live gracefully, and asserts that God's grace is like a river rather than a pond - there's got to be both an in and an out. The more we are gracious to ourselves and to others the more room there is for God to pour further grace into us!
Nigel urges us to allow the fire to keep burning in our hearts by spending regular time with God, not (just) in bible study but through being in His presence and engaging in conversation, just like Jesus did.
"We can’t earn it, we can’t learn it, we need to burn for it! Let's continue to ask for healing and practise this wonderful gift we've been given.
Colin encourages us to embrace the power of Jesus to drive out the darkness from ourselves, our families and friends, our workplaces and our neighbourhoods.
Pete Greig addresses the upcoming COP 26 gathering of global leaders in Glasgow, and why the church in particular should act on climate change. Then Alison Hopkinson interviews our own Karen Feakin about how and why she got so involved, and how as individuals we can increase for good our own impact on the planet.
Obi talks about how to be compassionate to others who are going through suffering, pain and anguish, and gives practical ways we can help.
Understanding the depth of Jesus compassion for us, enables us to know who we are in Him, changes how we live and affects those around us
Andy considers the essence of compassion, why should we be motivated by it anyway, and what difference will it make?
In Part 4 of our "Living Like Jesus" series, we explore how Jesus always chose relationship over religion, and take a look at a story in Mark 3 to help us understand how important it is for us too.
We sometimes like to criticise rule breakers, but Jesus showed us the importance of lover and relationship over doing things by the book, even in matters of faith.
Al explains the power of our story in communicating God's love to others, and how living the good news is better than "preaching" it.
Julie talks about how a revelation of The Fathers love will transform our thinking and moving in the supernatural
Speaking from Mark 12 Paul outlines the challenge that is just as real for us today as it was in Jesus' time: do we truly follow the path of communion or are we unduly influenced by religious consumerism.
Colin kicks off our new teaching series "Living like Jesus" (LLJ for short) noting how Jesus did all He did through living in his Father’s love by the Spirit. Hearing Him declare, “You are my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
The love of God is vast. He delights over His children and wants us to be full of His love so we can love others.
Another short talk from the founder of kintsugihope.com based on the story of the Prodigal Son.
Kintsugi Hope was founded by Diane and Patrick Regan OBE after a series of operations and events that took them to the brink; physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. They faced illness and loss in their family and community. They wrote a book and produced a DVD about their experiences. Through opening up about their struggles they realized how many people have felt alone in theirs, and the great need for each of us to be vulnerable, open and honest when life is hard.
Hearing how the world will "know and recognize" us as followers of Jesus -- by our love for one another.
The forgiveness and acceptance Jesus modelled is challenging and unreasonable. But it is also powerful and liberating, for ourselves and others.
Julie reminds us that what we allow to stay in our thoughts is what we are having faith for. Therefore, take captive our thoughts and bring them back in line with what God says.
Andy brings the final talk in the 'Jesus-shaped God' teaching series: Jesus' resurrection means that we need not fear death. (Apologies for the speech quality problem during the first minute).
Anthea explains that God is inviting us to drop our facades and use this time to build deep foundations to prepare for what He has for us next.
Colin invites us to look again at the Lord's Prayer, reminding us that God isn't disapproving and distant, but always wants to be close, living in intimacy with us.
The latest episode in our Jesus-Shaped God series exposes another idea that Jesus turns on its head. The kingdom comes not because God controls everything and ordains it, but as we volunteer for Jesus' duty and allow Him to work through us. Colin explains what we can expect as God's co-workers.
"We need to do what only we can do" Do you know what action God is asking / has asked you to take? He will only ever ask us to do things which He's ready to help us with.
God uses the weak, the few, and those that question 'but who am I?', because in our weakness His strength is manifest and all glory goes to Him
Along with a relevant and very personal testimony Jonny uses the example of Jesus healing the woman with long-term bleeding to show that God is interested not just in healing, but just as importantly He also wants to build relationship with us and to address our emotional needs.
Based on the Gospel account of Zacchaeus, and Parables including that of the Lost Sheep, Jill Stonehill describes how Jesus revealed a God who wants everyone to find their way home.
Learning from what Jesus says, we seek to grow in our knowledge and understanding of the written Word.
Colin considers the fact that God could have given us His Word in the form of an instruction manual, but He didn’t. Instead He gave us a book full of stories and songs. Why was that?
Jesus demonstrates the forgiving heart of Father God and Mary shows the reasons and results of that forgiveness.
Andy reminds us of the COMPLETE freedom that we can find in God, through the TOTAL forgiveness that He offers to everyone. Jesus keeps NO record of wrongs!
Ceri brings part 3 in our teaching series, focusing on Jesus being tempted in the wilderness after his baptism. Let's be dependent on God, choosing daily to live in childlike trust and to stay close to Him through prayer and immersing ourselves in His word.
Tina describes how Jesus, the God who became human to lead us home, continues to stoop down to reach out to us where we're at.
Men have always sought a way up to God or enlightenment, but Jesus is the God who comes down to us. God becomes human to show us the way to become God-like. He descends to raise us up and enable us to live a life of wonder!
Colin introduces 'The Jesus-Shaped God', a new teaching series whose aim is better to help us understand who God is, not through what we have absorbed from our upbringing, through philosophical ideas, or even through some well-worn church traditions, but through Jesus.
What was really important to Jesus? What was His ministry really built around? And what was His legacy?
Guest Speaker Ness Wilson, Leader of Pioneer UK, encourages us to be bold in seeking to impact our communities more deeply by reaching out in three ways: relationally, practically and spiritually.
On the 20th anniversary of their 8 year old son Joshua's death from a brain tumour, Paul & Sarah reflect on and share about what God has done with them, in them and through them since that devastating event.
Andy's Easter message focuses on the Light which can never be extinguished, one of John's key themes in his gospel
Can we see hopeless situations turned around for good? Colin explains how the raising of Lazarus can help us become resurrection people, who walk through pain into glory.
This miracle - the 6th key event in John - is an unprecedented act of redemptive restoration, with Jesus demonstrating once again that He is God. Anthea explores the story and how Jesus challenges our assumptions and prejudices and asks: what have you seen that you can’t un-see?
God's heart is that we would never live in fear: how do we manage that? The answer lies in living as dearly loved children and not as orphans.
Miracle 5: Jesus walking on water. Ceri takes a look at the problem of fear, the root of fear, and the solution to fear! Although we were born as spiritual orphans, now we are dearly-loved children, and can trust in the goodness and kindness of our Father God.
Ness delivers the concluding talk of this year's Pioneer Annual Leaders Conference with an inspiring word to all Pioneer churches about being ready for the next 12 months. (The talk on the video version starts at approx -1:14:45)
Colin considers this miracle in a talk titled 'In Partnership With God'. He concludes by asking three questions: are you an orphan or a child of God? When was the last time you brought your sandwiches to Jesus? And how might you live inspirationally each day?
Simon considers how Jesus partners with the disciples to feed the multitude in the wilderness, and looks at what happens between Him and the crowd.
A new song about our daughter Hope written for her second Birthday on the 13th Feb 2021
The healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda is amazing as a miracle. But in the story of this healing, in looking at how Jesus approached the man, cared for him and dealt with criticism we can see some important principles for life in God’s Kingdom.
The healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda is amazing as a miracle. But in the story of this healing, in looking at how Jesus approached the man, cared for him and dealt with criticism we can see some important principles for life in God’s Kingdom.
Just a simple step / In a world that’s spinning backwards / Am I moving on / Or just content to take a ride ....
Ceri writes: This song currently only exists in Welsh as I wrote it for a Welsh online event, which coincided with our theme of Light. It isn’t based on a true story but is inspired by true stories of victims of trafficking and slavery. In my story, a young girl has left her home and family to seek a better life away from poverty. She entrusts her life to people who offer her a chance to escape in a van. She ends up trapped and is ...... (continued in the attached lyrics file)
Tabby examines the second miracle of Jesus in John's gospel - Healing the official’s son (John 4:43-54) - and asks three key questions: Do I still trust God? Do I believe God can do big things? Where / for whom is He asking me to pray?
Two friends help us think through the challenge posed by the "impossible love commandment" of Deut.6 v 5 - with some surprising results!
Al talks about courageous optimism, generous creativity and heartfelt compassion in the context of (our response to COVID and) our all-powerful Father God who made the Cosmos.
A more in-depth look at the significance of an ancient Jewish wedding ceremony and Jesus' first miracle of turning water into wine
Colin introduces a new teaching series which will take us up to Easter, called 'Signs of New Life'. Discover how John frames the Gospel in terms of New Creation: God dwelling with us as a light to driving out the darkness and bringing orphans home to their Father.