Darebin Presbyterian Church: Recent Episodes
Darebin Presbyterian Church
1. A song of victory!
2. The victory of Israel’s king
a) The king rejoices in the Lord’s strength (1)
b) The king has been blessed by the Lord (2-6)
c) The king trusts in the Lord (7)
d) The king will win in the future by the power of the Lord (8-12)
e) God judges the king’s enemies through the king’s actions
f) The Lord is praised because his strength gives victories to the king (13)
3. Jesus is the ultimate king
a) He was granted ultimate victory, so trust him (1 John 5:1-5; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57; Acts 10:36-38)
b) He was blessed by God, so celebrate him (John 11:41-42; 17:1-5; Mark 1:9-11; 9:1-3; Romans 6:9)
c) He will come to judge, so hope in him (John 5:21-23, 30; Acts 17:31; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10)
Psalm 18 is a royal psalm
True words about King David
Connects to God’s covenant with David 2 Samuel 7
He was in a special relationship with God 1-6
He was rescued and vindicated 7-19
He was established as righteous 20-31
He was given complete rule 32-45
His descendant will rule forever 46-50
Truer words about King Jesus
The defeated one (crucifixion) 1-6
The rescued one (resurrection) 7-19
The vindicated one (glorification) 20-27
The ruling one (ascension) 28-45
The gathering one (proclamation) 46-50; cf. Romans 15:7-9
A psalm that is (mostly) not about you
Warnings about God’s furious holiness (7-19)
Exhortations about God’s expectations (20-27)
Jesus is the ultimate King
Jesus is the ultimate Rock Luke 6:46-49
Our longing for a secure dwelling.
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The question that really matters (v.1)
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The answer that God gives (vv.2-5)
“The one who does what is righteous”
Integrity in your speech (v.2b-3).
Integrity in your allegiances (v.4a).
Integrity in your commitments (v.4b).
Integrity in your dealings with the vulnerable (v.5a).
- Look to Christ as the great hope of Psalm 15 (Isa 61:10; Phil 3:7-11).
You enter God’s dwelling clothed in His righteousness.
- Look to Psalm 15 as a great guide for honoring Christ (Eph 4:1; Rom 12:1).
You honour Christ as you live out the integrity described in Ps 15.
1. The Cries of Jesus (14:32-40)
We see Jesus as never before: distressed, troubled, sorrowful
“Abba Father” (Mark 1:11, Romans 8:15)
“All things are possible for you, take this cup from me” (Isaiah 51:17, Psalm
75:8, Jer 25:15-16)
“Not what I will but what you will” (v.36)
We see our failure in their failure
Application: Can you see Jesus – truly like us but not?
(Hebrews 2:14-18; 4:15-17)
2. The Conviction of Jesus (14:41-52)
Cometh the hour, cometh the Son of man (v.41)
The ultimate betrayal (v.45)
They flee because Jesus won’t fight (v.50, cf.v.27 and Zech 13:7)
The Scriptures must be fulfilled (Isaiah 53:7)
The obedient Son is our Saviour (Hebrews 5:7-9)
Application: Can you trust Jesus – our champion?
Living in light of the end
The meal at the end revealed why Jesus is to be treasured
Jesus died as a Passover lamb to bring us life
Jesus shed his blood to seal a new covenant of grace
Treasure Jesus by seeing him as the end (Mary vs Judas)
Mary of Bethany saw Jesus as her greatest treasure (see John 12:1-8)
Judas saw Jesus as a means to his greatest treasure
Treasuring Jesus rightly allows you to use what you have for him
Treasure Jesus by treasuring him in the end (Peter vs Judas)
Judas betrayed Jesus in the end
Peter denied Jesus but received forgiveness in the end
Treasuring Jesus rightly allows you to come to him when you fail
Two types of offerings at the templeThe rich out of their abundanceThe poor widow out of her lackWidows had some support in Israel – Deut. 14:29 (temple tithes); 24:19-21 (gleanings)Jesus commends the widow’s love and faithShe gives to God what is God’s (12:13-17)She sees beyond this life into the next (12:18-27)She loves God with all she has (12:28-34)She honours God more than herself (12:35-40)True generosity comes from believing the gospelLove of the God who saves you and gives you all you haveLove God first, not ourselvesLove God out of thankfulness.Love God who gives you all you haveFaith in the God who is powerful and can provide for youGod makes our generosity powerfulGod can provide for us, even in deathGenerous with money, time, talents and other treasure (possessions)TIP: Read “The Cheerful Giver” by Des Smith for more encouragement on generosity.
The teachers of the law didn’t give the Messiah enough honour (35-37)
The Messiah is the son of David
2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 18:50; 132:11-12; Isaiah 9:7; Jeremiah 30:9; Hosea 3:5; Amos 9:11
David called the Messiah ‘my Lord’ (Psalm 110)
The Messiah is much more than a national hero! (Psalm 110)
Will be exalted over everything vv1-3, 5-7
Acts 2:32-36; Hebrews 1:13; 1 Corinthians 15:25
Will forever be a priest in the order of Melchizedek v4
Genesis 14:18-20; Hebrews 5:10; 7:15-17, 24; 10:11-14;
Do you honour Messiah Jesus enough?
The teachers of the law took too much honour for themselves (38-40)
STATUS – They drew attention to themselves (38)
POWER – They sought places of honour (39)
TRIBUTE – They demanded payment (40)
Do you honour yourself too much?
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What’s most important?
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Question: What’s at the heart of God’s law? (28) Matthew 23:23-24
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Answer: Love! (29-33)
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Love sums up the law (29-31)
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Love God – the response to monotheism (29-30) Deut. 6:5-6
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Love of others – the response to God’s holiness (31) Lev. 19:18
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Love is the most important thing (32-33)
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1 Sam. 15:22; Isa. 1:11; 66:2; Jer. 22:3; Mic. 6:8; Zech. 8:16; Matt. 7:12; Gal. 5:6, 13-15; Rom. 13:8-10; James 2:8
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The Kingdom is love-shaped (34)
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God’s love gets us in
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Kingdom people love in return John 14:15; 1 John 4:10; 5:3; 2 John 6; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
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Cultivating Kingdom Love at DPC
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Pursue delight in God – grow your love of God
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Embrace loving community – seek the good of others
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Seek the good of our neighbourhood – be open and generous
- When confusion leads to fear 2. Confusion #1 – Who will move the stone? (1-5)3. Confusion #2 – Why is Jesus not here? (6-7)4. Confusion #3 – Why does Mark end with fear? (8)Why verses 9-20 are probably not original to Mark 1) Not in oldest copies of Mark 2) Many old copies mark it as doubtful 3) Unique vocabulary and style 4) No mention of Jesus appearing in Galilee 5) More of a summary of other parts of the New Testament 6) Makes a troubling promise (vv17-18)5. Faith in the resurrection of Jesus clears up confusion: About Jesus’ death About the hopes and challenges of this life
The shame of the cross
Rejected – The Messiah is Mocked (16-20)
Exposed – The Christ is Crucified (21-27)
Contaminated – The Saviour is Scorned (29-32; 1 Corinthians 1:22-24)
Following the King who was shamed
No shame in God’s eyes (Romans 8:1; 35-39; Isaiah 52:13-15; 53:3)
Enduring shame as a follower of Jesus (v15; 8:34; Romans 16:13; Hebrews 12:1-3)
What do you make of Jesus?1. The priests get their witness (14:53-65)2. The rock crumbles under pressure (14:66-72)3. The guilty son goes free (15:1-15)What does Jesus make of us?
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Having a bad day?
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Cleansing the temple – a sign that Israel is faithless (15-19)
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The purpose of the temple: A house of prayer for all nations Isaiah 56:1-8
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The reality of the temple: A den of robbers Jeremiah 7:9-11
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Successfulness with no faithfulness
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Cursing the fig tree – a sign that Israel is fruitless (12-14, 20-22)
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The purpose of Israel: Bear fruit to reveal spiritual health and blessing Zechariah 3:10; Psalm 1; Micah 7:1-2
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The reality of Israel: A barren tree Jeremiah 7:20; 8:13
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Showiness with no fruitfulness (12-14, 20-22)
4.Pursuing authentic spirituality as the people of God (22-25)
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Faith in Jesus’ faithfulness
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A community of prayerful dependence
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A community of fruitful forgiveness
What makes for good community?
Jesus transforms people by the gospel to create communities that transform (Romans 12:1-2, 9)
Christians are people transformed by God’s mercy through Jesus (12:1-2)
Christian community transforms people to be like Jesus (12:9)
Christians are to form communities characterised by love and honour (12:10)
Christians are loved by God and so they love each other like family
Christians are accepted by God so they honour each other freely and eagerly
Embracing loving community at DPC
Begin where people are at
Be close enough to be challenged
Jesus shares his joy
Receiving the divine joy that delights (John 15)
Join the vine – connect to Jesus by faith
Remain in the vine – obey Jesus to live out your status as his beloved
Be nurtured by the gardener – know a full joy despite the pain, temptations and distractions of life
The Trinity and joy: Father = source; Son = sharer; Spirit = sustainer.
Pursue delight in God through growing your faith in him
Turn to the Word (Psalm 119:105; John 6:68; 17:13-14; 2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Prayerful dependence (John 16:24; Philippians 4:6)
Celebrate grace (Ephesians 1:3-6; Colossians 3:16; 2 Corinthians 4:15)
Receive comfort from the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17; Romans 8:15-17)
Commit to Christian community (Acts 2:42; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; Hebrews 3:12-13; 10:24-25)
Growing up as a church
The continuing mission of Jesus’ church (Matthew 28:16-20)
Make disciples of all nations (evangelism)
Teach and train disciples (discipleship)
Helping people meet Jesus at DPC
A life-changing encounter with Jesus the Messiah
At DPC, we want to introduce people to Jesus
Helping people follow Jesus together at DPC
The call to discipleship is costly and challenging (Matthew 16:24-26)
At DPC, we want disciples to journey together
Working towards the future
Implement our strategic plan
Get involved
Rely on Jesus who helps us
1. “The minister wants to baptise our baby!”
2. God’s salvation plan consists of a series of covenants
— A biblical covenant is a solemn agreement between two parties with blessings and curses attached (Deuteronomy 29; Genesis 9:8-11; Genesis 17:3-11)
— There is one covenant of grace administered differently across time (Genesis 15:6; Galatians 3:6-18; Jeremiah 31:31-32)
— God has provided covenant signs to symbolise and guarantee his promises
—- Noahic = Rainbow; Abrahamic = Circumcision; Mosaic (Old) = Circumcision and Passover and more; New = Baptism and the Lord’s Supper
2. Baptism replaced circumcision as a sign of belonging to the people of God – Colossians 2:11-12; Romans 4:9-12
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Both point to the same reality
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Both are a rite of initiation
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Baptism entails an expansion of who receives the sign
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There is no command to stop giving the covenantal sign to children
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Not everyone who receives covenant signs is saved (Romans 2:28-29; 4:9-11; 9:6-8; Hebrews 6:4-6)
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The children of Christians are viewed as insiders not outsiders (1 Corinthians 7:12-14)
4. How do we respond?
Parents: Let’s do a baptism or thanksgiving spot for your child
Everyone: Let’s welcome the children of believers as young disciples
RESOURCES
Why Do We Baptize Infants? – a booklet (32 pages) by Bryan Chapell
- A brief summary of the key arguments.
How Our Children Come to Faith – a booklet (28 pages) by Stephen Smallman
- A brief and thought-provoking book that will encourage parents in their efforts to disciple their children. He speaks of conversion as the point when a regenerate person personally takes hold of Christ by faith.
Covenantal Baptism – book by Jason Helopolous.
- Great explanation of covenants and baptism and God’s kindness! Helpful on baptism in general but also for those wondering about baptising the children of believers.
What is Coventantal Baptism – article by Gabriel D
- A brief article on an apologetics website which gives a good overview of covenantal baptism.
https://trinityapologetics.com/covenantal-baptism/
Why You Should Remember Your Baptism – article by Christopher David
- A great article from Gospel Coalition, India on how baptism is an ongoing means of grace
https://in.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/road-goes-ever-on/why-you-should-remember-your-baptism/
Getting Baptised at DPC – paper by Adam Humphries
- A summary of DPC’s position and how to work towards baptism.
https://darebinpc.elvanto.com.au/file/87d97797-3114-4671-95bd-7fadd0808ada/
Bringing You Child to God at DPC - paper by Adam Humphries
- An overview of options for your child: baptism or a thanksgiving spot
https://darebinpc.elvanto.com.au/file/ff359bec-492a-42c6-ba96-2ca860773369/
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The trees of Christmas
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God promised a Branch who would renew King David’s dynasty and usher in righteousness
Isaiah prophesied a Branch and a Root from the stump of Jesse (Isaiah 11:1-10)
Jeremiah prophesied a righteous saviour Branch (Jeremiah 33:14-18)
- A thousand years of disappointment
Zedekiah – Failed to bring righteousness (King – 597-586 BC)
He did not rule with righteousness so Judah was conquered (2 Kings, 25:1-12; 2 Chronicles 36:11-14)
Zerubbabel – failed to bring renewal (Governor – 538-515 BC)
Governor of Judea after the exile (Ezra 3:8; Haggai 1:12)
Helped rebuild the Temple but didn’t bring the hoped for renewal (Zech. 4:9; 6:11-12; 3:8)
- Jesus is the Branch!
A Branch who renewed the line of David
A descendant of David who will receive the throne (Matthew 1; Luke 1:32-33)
An inhabitant of Nazareth (Matthew 2:23)
A Nazarene who lived in a town named for branch (Netzer in Hebrew), with descendants of David living there
Is Matthew's appeal to "the prophets" a broad reference to the many Old Testament promises of a messiah descended from David, but with a particular play on the word netzer, “branch,” from Isaiah 11:1? Though the royal line was hacked down to a stump, from that stump a shoot or branch would one day spring up. Matthew may be saying of Jesus, “He shall be called that ‘branch’ of David,” that is, his long awaited son, the Messiah of Israel.Paul Barnett, Jesus & the Rise of Early Christianity, 92-93
A Root who secured righteousness (Rev. 5:5; 22:16; Romans 15:12; cf. Isaiah 11:1, 10; 4:2)
- Find renewal and righteousness in Jesus the Branch this Christmas
Shelter under the loving rule of Jesus
Seek to live a righteous life under Jesus
1. Mercy to the undeserving
2. Jonah knows God is gracious and compassionate
- A summary of God’s heart from Exodus 34:5-7
3. Jonah is angry that God showed grace and compassion to his enemies
- A summary of Jonah’s heart towards outsiders … and God
4. Christians must not seek to limit God’s mercy
- Extend mercy to all people
- Share the gospel with all people
Are you good at saying sorry?
Why should I repent?
Nineveh was going to be overthrown (Genesis 18:20; 19:24-29)
You can avoid being overthrown and instead receive true life
How do I repent?
Nineveh expressed humility and contrition while turning from sin
You must turn back to God with genuine sorrow and ask for his forgiveness
How do I know repentance will work?
Jesus is greater than Jonah (Matthew 12:38-41; 1 John 1:8-9)
Come to God, through Jesus, in full assurance that you will receive mercy.
Grow in your confidence in saying sorry to people you have wronged.
Tell others of the blessings of saying sorry to God (Psalm 32:3-5)
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What did Jonah do when the Lord sent him to Nineveh?
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Why did the Lord provide a huge fish to swallow Jonah?
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What did Jonah do when he was in the belly of the fish?
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In what ways does the story of salvation point you to the story of Jesus and the salvation he brings?
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What do you, therefore, need to do when you have been swallowed by something?
Does God need us to save people?
The LORD sovereignly worked through his disobedient prophet to save the sailors (Jonah 1)
God turns the spotlight on Jonah in the big storm (1-12; Proverbs 16:33)
The sailors worship Yahweh (13-16)
God’s role: He alone saves people (Ephesians 2:1-10)
Your role: Freely speak of your Christian identity (Romans 10:9-15)
The LORD sovereignly worked through his grumpy prophet to save Nineveh (Jonah 3)
God softens hearts despite Jonah’s small efforts in the big city
The Ninevites repent before God
God’s role: He changes hearts so people believe the message (Acts 13:48; 16:14)
Your role: Know the gospel and the Bible (1 Peter 3:15-16)
1. What are you big on?
2. Jonah: A small book about a big God
• It’s not about the whale!
• A big God who sits over the land and sea
• A big God who sits over history
3. Jonah had a big problem with God (1:1-3)
• A prophet with a mission (1:1-2)
• A prophet maintaining his streak? (1:3; 2 Kings 14:23-29)
• A prophet who wants God’s love to be smaller (4:1-3)
4. The challenge of a big God who loves to save (Jonah 2:9)
• He loves to save people from all over the world (John 3:16-17)
• He loves to save sinners, which includes us (Luke 19:9-10; 1 Timothy 1:15)
• He loves to involve his people in saving others (1 Corinthians 9:22)
5. Let’s study Jonah and grow our hearts as we join God’s mission
Israel’s animal laws told a story about the need to be redeemed from a fallen world, a story fulfilled in Jesus.
Leviticus reveals to us the great length God has gone to so we can draw near to him in Christ.
A joy shared is a joy doubled.
Local churches are to delight in God together
Fighting for delight together
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A truly spiritual life is marked by certain traits (3-5a)
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A truly spiritual life is produced by God’s Word (5b-8)
Feeding of the 5000
Jesus is compassionate
Toward the disciples (vs 31)
Toward the crowd (vs 34)
Jesus is trustworthy
He multiplies food from the crowd to feed everyone abundantly (vs 41-44)
Walking on Water
Jesus is the Son of God (Matt 14:33)
He has power over the created laws.
‘The problem is always the human condition and the solution is always Jesus.’
The Kingdom of God is a matter of faith so what matters is that we are faithful.
Is the church shrinking or growing?
Four parables about the Kingdom of God
It is meant to be revealed to those who search (21-23)
It provides blessings to those who listen well (24-25)
It grows, often unseen, by the power of God (26-29)
It may seem small but will one day be big (30-32)
The Kingdom of God is a matter of faith.
What matters is that we are faithful.
Who would be on your dream team?
Why Jesus created a team:
Practical – A growing ministry with growing pressure (7-12)
Theological – A new twelve for a new people (13-14a)
Missiological – Apostles of a new movement (14-15)
To be with him
To be sent
A unique team of regular people like us (16-19)
Simon the Spontaneous
James the Passionate
John the Beloved
Levi the Lowlife (Matthew)
James the Who?
Judas the Betrayer
God the Father rose Jesus from the dead so that love might live on in us by the Spirit. Was love now dead? The Father raised Jesus from the dead Jesus pours out the Spirit so we can live new lives The Spirit empowers us to know and show love He brings us God’s love (Romans 5:5) He helps us produce love (Gal 5:22-23) He enables us to be united in love (Phil 2:1-2)
Please note, there is a buzzing sound towards the end of the recording that we have tried to edit out. It has affected the quality of the audio. Sorry about that.
In this passage we see a big lie about Jesus that is both stupid and serious at the same time
In this passage we see how radical transformation we have experienced in Christ should shape how we relate to our brothers and sisters in Christ
In this passage we see that God’s people are discouraged by looking back, encouraged by looking up, and filled with hope by looking forward.
In this passage we are challenged to consider our priorities, our entire life, and how we can give ourselves first and foremost to building God’s church for his glory.
Food, family, and presents are all great things but what's the one thing that most people are missing at Christmas?
Christ is glorious. He is the one who is eternal, He is the creator, He reveals God and He the source of all life and because of all this is so deserving of praise.
Despite the fact that most of humanity reject Christ there is an opportunity to receive Christ - this is a gift of God's grace - nothing to do with any human effort or decision.
We can find our purpose in life by playing our part in God’s purpose: to see as many people as possible gathered up under Christ as Lord
In this passage we see what it looks like for Christian employees and employers to live out the supremacy of Christ in their workplaces.
In Christ God is putting back together all the pieces of our broken and sinful lives - in our marriages and parenting - to create homes that truly reflect his glory.
In this passage Paul tells us four things about how we can enjoy the fullness that we have in Christ.
Embrace the spiritual fullness that we have in knowing Christ, and beware anything or anyone that might seek to drag us way from that fullness.
In this passage we get a glimpse of Paul’s supreme ministry, as he proclaims, and presents people mature, in the supreme Christ.
Paul assures the Colossians that they are true Christians, who have believed the true gospel, and he prays that they might remember all that they have in Christ, and increasingly experience true fullness in Christ.
Remembering the future breeds faithful Christians, and forgetting the future breeds cynical Christians - so remember the future!
God calls us to give our whole life to him generously and sacrificially - but maybe how we use our time, money and energy suggests that we are robbing God?
We can often ask ourselves: “Is it really worth living as a Christian?” This passage assures us that it is and warns us against being complacent about living for God.
God urges his people to guard themselves against unfaithfulness - to be, like him, a people who is not just true to their feelings, but true to their word.
In this passage we see God’s rage at ungodly pastors, a vision for godly pastors, and we lift our eyes to Christ, our perfect Pastor.
In this passage we see how the priests of Israel are showing contempt for their Father’s name.
God’s people Israel have the audacity to question his love, so God enables them to truly see and tremble at his love.
In this passage we how Jesus offers real hope for those who, at least at times, feel hopeless.
In this meal we see how we can be set free to enjoy, remember, and long for Christ’s love.
If we long for Jesus' banquet feast, and understand how much we need Jesus, then we must compel all people to come!
In feeding the 5000 Jesus shows he is the fulfiller of the Jewish hope by revealing himself as the Messiah, while pointing to a future greater hope of the eternal banquet. We need Jesus to provide both now and for eternity.
A meal with Jesus that demonstrates his incredible grace to welcome, eat with, and transform sinners.
In this passage we we see the incredible beauty of our ultimate home - when we are finally at home with God, seeing him face to face.
In this sermon we explore one of the most disputed passage in the Bible and we discover what we can and can’t know for certain.
God works all of history to display his glory and that his people might enjoy his glory - hallelujah!
As Christians we are called to play the long game - embracing a life of temporary suffering now so that we can share in Christ's eternal glory later
One of the main causes of the suffering of God’s people is Satan’s rage - but we can triumph over his rage by the blood of Christ.
There is good news in the end because God speaks about judgement to come at the climax of history where Jesus will ultimately reign.
In this passage we see that the resurrection of Jesus is grounded in truth, and because of that we can truly delight in grace, and live in love.
In this passage we explore how Jesus died - according to the Scriptures - why Jesus died - he died as our substitute - and what Jesus offers us - he offers us true life and satisfaction.
All of us long for security, but it’s only in knowing Christ that we can experience complete security both now and forever.
In this passage we see both the radical gospel, and the radical transformation that the gospel brings.
In this passage we see that despite the pressures we might face God is on his throne and we should worship him.
In this passage we see that Christ our King sends us out to proclaim the gospel where there is great need and great danger - will you bear the cost of this mission?
Christ sees the spiritual condition of those who are spiritually lost and he is filled with deep compassion - and calls us to pray for their salvation.
In this passage Matthew records three miracles that Christ performed that show us the need, the object, and the results of faith.
In this passage we see that those who know that they are sinners welcome Jesus, and those who think that they are saints oppose Jesus.
Jesus, God’s King, has incredible power - power over creation, over evil, and power to forgive sins.
In this passage we see Jesus' desire that the crowds of fans around him would become genuine followers of him.
In this passage we see the glorious hope that Christ offers us of a world of perfect justice, peace, grace and joy.
In this passage we are confronted with the glory of God's righteous, sovereign and purposeful anger.
In this passage we explore the gracious, life-giving, and liberating light of God's salvation.
In this passage we saw that discontent paralyses gospel generosity, but contentment in Christ empowers gospel generosity.
In this passage we see that we are called to live as worthy citizens of heaven by giving of ourselves for the sake of others.
In this passage we see that Paul finds joy in having a vision for his life that is dominated by living for Christ and seeing the good news about him advance throughout the world!
In this passage Paul is filled with great joy as he contemplates the gospel partnership he shares with the church in Philippi.
All too often we are faced with a decision to either place our trust in God or someone/something else. When life goes pear-shaped, who do you turn to?
If we see ourselves rightly before God as people of unclean lips, we will understand Gods Grace rightly and flee to the cross where we see Gods glory and Grace fully displayed.
In a broken and dislocated world, we all long for things to be set right. Isaiah 5:8-30 shows that God makes all things right through his right, real and restorative judgment.
In this passage Isaiah sings a song about how God expects his people - in response to his care and grace - to bear much good fruit that brings glory to him!
In this passage Jesus teaches us that a true disciple is someone who doesn't just talk the talk, but walks the walk - doesn't just hear his words, but does his words.
In this passage Jesus teaches us that there are really only two ways to live, represented by the two different paths and two different trees.
In this passage Jesus teaches us that we can pray with perseverance and confidence because our Heavenly Father is both great and good!
Jesus wants us to think about how we judge and discern. He calls us not to be judgmental of others and he explains the reasons why. So instead, how should we treat others?
In this passage Jesus teaches us how if we surrender to him as our great, and good, and gracious King, over time, we can experience freedom from anxiety.
In this passage Jesus teaches us to that what we treasure - whether it be money or Christ - will shape our entire life!
In this passage we see the presumption, the purpose, the practice, and the prize of fasting. May we be people who hunger for God and his glory, rather than for ourselves and our glory!
In this passage Jesus teaches us to pray not as religious hypocrites or pagan babblers, but as Christians - children of God praying to their Father in heaven!
Jesus says there are two rewards that motivate Christian giving. Which reward motivates you?
In this chapter we see the closeness, the causes, and the consequences of God’s judgment on Judah and Jerusalem - but we also see the catalyst - of God’s glorious salvation!
The church in Laodicea is lukewarm in their love for Christ because of their love of money. In this sermon we will see how we can turn away from our love of money - and all that it promises us - to find true wealth in knowing Christ.
The church in Philadelphia is already enduring suffering for the sake of following Christ, but how can they - and we - endure to the end and enjoy all the blessings of our salvation?
The church in Sardis has a great history - a reputation of being alive - but the reality is, they are spiritually dead - how can this dead church be brought back to life? And how can we continue to cultivate real spiritual life in our church?
The church in Thyatira were being misled by a false prophet Jezebel into spiritually corrupt conduct - but really, those practices were just a sign of the spiritual corruption that was already in their hearts. So we see that if we want to deal with the spiritual corruption in our hearts - and remain faithful to Christ - we have to focus on Him - the One who was willing to be dashed to pieces on the cross for our corruption! As we do that - over time - our hearts will be full of love for Christ, and not full of love, for corrupt things.
The church in Pergamum were being tempted to compromise on their faith - giving in to false teachers and idols in their culture - in the name of having a life that is easy, safe, and pain free - and we see how Christ's uncompromising devotion to us - his willingness to bear the sword of God's judgment in our place on the cross - empowers us to live a life of no spiritual compromise.
In this talk Christ speaks to his church in Ephesus - he compliments them for their rejection of false teaching, their passion for sound teaching, and their commitment to gospel service. And yet, beneath the surface of all that activity, they have lost their first love for Christ, one another, and their city. How can this loveless church recapture their love for Christ?
In this talk John lifts our eyes to see the full glory of Christ - our glorified King! In the process we learn about the recipient, the reception, the record, and the reaction to the vision
In this talk John encourages the church under pressure by reminding them of who their God is - Father, Son and Spirit - and what he has done through Christ - his rejected, risen, reigning, and returning King.
In this talk we see how the good news of Christianity completely revolutionises how we respond to suffering. Christians can and should grieve at suffering, but through the historical reality that Jesus has been raised from the dead, they also have a living hope, that means they can have joy in suffering.
We live in a world where truth has become a matter of preference, replaced by alternative facts. Things aren’t true or false; they’re pleasant or unpleasant, appealing or unappealing, liked or disliked. A world which says ‘Definitely, maybe’ in its fear of commitment. Jesus calls out our poor standards of truth and integrity and, as the true King gives demands of His people a radically higher standard of Truthfulness. He is the Word of God, The Truth, who sets us free from idols which tempt us to dishonesty and following the Father of Lies, and who gives us grace and truth.
In this sermon we explore the complicated topic of divorce and re-marriage. We hear Jesus explain God's original intention for marriage, the seriousness of divorce, and his merciful concession that in some circumstances divorce is permissible.
In this sermon we see the preciousness of sex, the problem of lust, and where we can find the power to experience freedom from lust.
This is the first of six passages in which Jesus explores the topic: "what does true righteousness look like? What does it look like for citizens of God's kingdom to live a life that pleases God?" In this case we see that true righteousness is not just about avoiding murdering people, but about not harbouring unrighteous anger and contempt in our hearts.
We are all hungry for approval, but the ultimate approval we crave is God's approval. This passage explores the characteristics of those who get God's approval, how we can become those kind of people, and what influence we will have in the world.
This sermon provides the framework for understanding the blessings in Matthew 5:1-12, and the Sermon on the Mount as a whole. We see clearly that we can only be citizens of God's Kingdom because of his amazing mercy.
In this talk we will see what pride is, why it is so destructive, and how we can be set free from pride to be both deeply humble, and deeply secure, and live our lives with wisdom.
In his talk we explore the uniqueness of the friendship, how we can discover and build friendships, and where we can find the strength to be true friends.
If we want to speak wise words - words of truth, life, and hope - the loves of our hearts need to be captured by the Ultimate Word - Christ.
We live in culture that foolishly overvalues and undervalues both sex and beauty. If we want to relate to sex and beauty rightly we must have our hearts captured by Christ - as our Ultimate Beauty.
This well known story of the Christmas narrative and the angel coming to shows us that when we like Mary receive God’s grace with humility, that we are able to then respond to God’s grace with joy!
Spiritually speaking, every Christian is in Christ, and they stand firm in the spiritual battle, by putting on their protective armour - the truth of who they are in Christ - and by taking up prayer and God'd Word - their attacking weapons in the battle.
In this talk we see who we fight - the Devil and his demons - what we fight - the Devil's evil schemes - and how we fight - by putting on the armour of God, which represents the great truths of the gospel.
A person of integrity is someone who allows the the truth of the gospel to permeate and shape every part of their life. In this passage we particularly explore how the gospel shapes the relationships between children and parents, and masters (employers) and slaves (employees).
Our community are constantly feelings the effects of broken marriages and families. We are left with the question: what is it that will enable marriages to not only survive, but thrive? In this passage we see that our marriages will thrive when husbands and wives seek to live in line with God’s design for marriage with their eyes fixed on Jesus.
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians reminds us that Christians have been chosen, forgiven and adopted by God. We did nothing to earn this, but as his children we’re called to imitate him. That means living radically different lives, living – or ‘walking’ - the way Christ did. In the realm of sex, this means being pure with ‘not even a hint’ of sexual immorality either outwardly or in our thought lives. The antidote to immorality is thankfulness. In how we relate to the darkness of the world around us it means living distinctive lives which expose the darkness: not seeking to please other people but to please God. And in the realm of daily life we’re to live wisely: not surrendering our powers of judgement to alcohol, but joyfully submitting instead to the controlling influence of God’s Holy Spirit.
All of us want to change. We struggle with the gap between who we actually are, and who we want to be. In this passage we see that if this change is going to happen we need to see three things - first, the reality of our old lives - second, the vision for our new lives - and third, how we can change from our old lives to our new lives, by putting off the lies that shaped our old life, and putting on the truth that should shape our new life.
We build up the body of Christ when we commit ourselves to walking worthily, guarding unity, expressing diversity and pursuing maturity.
Paul prays that the Ephesians might have their core, their heart, transformed by Jesus. He wants them them to truly grasp Christ. As well as looking at the content of the prayer, we will explore a few practicalities of prayer. We finish by thinking about how we can cultivate Jesus love in our lives.
Paul's letter to the Ephesians turns to the cosmic significance and implications of Jews and Gentile being joined together as one family. Paul reminds the Ephesians of his conversion, and commission by God, and the Ephesians of their mission, and the supernatural purpose and impact that their mission has to the heavenly realms and the wider church.
In the face of war, abuse, discrimination, genocide, we all long for peace - but that longing can only be fulfilled in knowing Christ and being a part of Christ’s people because in his death on the cross Christ has paid the cost of that peace. So the church - and ultimately humanity as a whole - can be at peace. As the church we can live at peace with one another by centrering our lives on Christ, the chief cornerstone of our community, and the One who paid the cost of peace.
In verse 1-3 of this passage Paul speaks about the life we are all saved from - a life of self-centredness - a life of boasting in ourselves and what we do. Then, in verses 8-10 he speaks about the life we are saved for - a life of Christ-centredness - of boasting in Christ and what he’s done. And finally, in verses 4-7 he explains he exactly we can move from the life described in verses 1-3 to the life described in verses 8-10.
All of us were created to know God. Not just to know about God, but to actually know God. That’s what Paul prays for the Ephesians in these verses - that they might know and experience the God who has blessed them with every spiritual blessing in Christ. In particular, that they would know his incomparably great power, seen in the resurrection and exaltation of Christ.
All of us praise the people or things that we love. In this passage Paul is overflowing with thanks and praise because in Christ God has given us every spiritual blessing - including things such as significance, freedom, purpose, security and hope. We can grow in our thankfulness for what God has done for us by allowing our hearts to be increasingly captured by Christ’s love displayed at the cross, rather than captured by the people or things of this world.
In this passage we explore how both Jacob and Joseph die as great men of faith. We also explore how Joseph grieves his father’s death, how he recovers from that grief, and how - even in the face of his own death - he leaves God’s people with a sobering but hope-filled reminder.
In this passage Jacob speaks words of blessing to each of his sons that predict their future as individuals, and the future of the tribe that will descend from them. As he does that Jacob also longs for God’s Promised King - the Lion of the tribe of Judah - who will fully and finally deliver God’s people from Satan, sin, and death.
In this passage we explore the ways in which Jacob is a great example of us of finishing the life of well. As much as he is physically failing, spiritually speaking, he is sprinting to the line - sprinting into the arms of his Good Shepherd.
In this passage God is never mentioned, but it is clear that he is at work behind the scenes - through the ministry of Joseph - for the good his people, and for the whole population of Egypt and Canaan.
In this passage Jacob is faced with the terrifying prospect of moving his whole family down to Egypt. We too are faced with many big decisions in our lives. This talk encourages us, as we are faced with those decisions, to seek God’s Kingdom first, and entrust ourselves to Jesus, our Good Shepherd.
Most of us have tasted the sour fruit of betrayal or the bitter fruit of rejection. If we haven't, it's only a matter of time before we do. What we need then is a comprehensive way of dealing with this issue. Though Genesis 45 was written thousands of years ago, it offers a genuine way forward in dealing with forgiveness.
This talk explains the process of repentance through God's loving plan. See how Joseph's brothers are woken up, suffer, confess their sins, and lives are fully transformed. Finally they can only lie astonished at the grace they receive. How will you respond to God's loving plan for you today?
In a dramatic turn of events the 13 long years of Joseph’s suffering in slavery come to a sudden end and he is promoted to prime minister of a major superpower. In this dramatic account we meet three characters? We the God who speaks: but are we really listening to him, even if his message is troubling? We meet the slave. Joseph’s incredible boldness and openness before Pharaoh spring from a character shaped by God through suffering: Joseph has learnt to be faithful in both prosperity and adversity; Joseph has learnt the value of suffering; Joseph has learnt God’s purpose for his life. We meet Pharaoh: the king who trusted God’s rescuer, and see how God is bending history to bring people to faith in him.
This talk explores how anything that we pin our hopes on in this world will ultimately disappoint us, but if God strips us of every hope in this world so that our hope is exclusively in Him, ultimately, we will never be disappointed!
This talk explores how Joseph resists the sexual temptation of Potiphar’s wife, and how we can only resist the temptations that we face if our hearts are captured by the love and beauty of Christ
This talk explores Judah’s progression into worldliness, how God responds to our worldliness by displaying his holiness and grace, and how God’s grace to us in Christ empowers us live lives of being in this world, but not of this world
This talk explores the reality that God is always in control, why we struggle to trust that he’s in control, and how the gospel empowers us to trust that God is in control, even in the midst of suffering.
This talk explores the reality that showing our neighbours love and mercy is a non-neogtiable aspect of being a follower of Christ. We can only have the power to love like this - no matter who our neighbours are - if we understand deeply Christ love for us as the ultimate Neighbour.
This talk explores the reality that we respond to God’s gracious service of us in Christ’s death on the cross, by serving others with the gifts God has given us.
This talk explores questions such as: what does Christian maturity look like? What empowers growth in maturity? What will it cost us to help others towards maturity? How can we bear that cost with joy?
This talk explores the biblical and cultural case for becoming a member of a local church, and also outlines the heart of being a member - responding to the costly hospitality that Christ has shown us by showing costly hospitality to others
This talk explores a number of truths concerning the biblical theme of worship - most importantly, it points us to the fact that Chris,t is the ultimate worshipper - that is, Christ is the only person ever who loved his Father perfectly, and who always listened to, trusted and obeyed his word - and yet Christ, died on the cross for people like us - people who are always giving the worship of our hearts, to other people and things - it is this truth that should move us to give the worship of our hearts to Jesus.
In this talk we explore the people, the platform, the purpose, the promise and the power of mission - in particular we see that the power do mission comes as we take our eyes off ourselves and fix them on Christ, the ultimate missionary - the One who came from heaven to earth, and went all the way to the cross, to save us!
We must join with Isaiah in pleading with God with intensity, humility and persistence - because although we have sinned against God, we are still his children who belong to him, and represent him in this world. We must plead with him to pour out his Spirit to revive our hearts, to restore our fortunes, and to reveal the glory of Christ crucified, both to us, and to those who don’t know Him.
When God seems distant, absent, or silent, we should cry out to him saying: "we miss you, we need you, and we’re waiting on you!: We should plead with God to pour out his Spirit to revive our hearts, to restore our fortunes, and to reveal the glory of Christ crucified, both to us, and to those who don’t know Him.
In this short passage from Matthew 4, we are given a rare opportunity. We are given the opportunity to see what type of kingdom, God's King, Jesus will have. It is one that we all want, one without suffering and pain, stigma and brokenness, and one we can all experience if we will but simply accept God's King, and what he calls us to do.
When Jesus calls four brothers they immediately leave careers and family to follow him and his calling to become ‘fishers of men’. We see Jesus make a radical personal claim to be God’s King; Jesus demands a radical personal commitment to follow him; and Jesus gives a radical personal commission: to be fishers of men. Will you investigate Jesus claims? Will you make him number one in your workplace and relationships? Will you embrace his call to be calling people into his kingdom wherever Jesus leads you to follow?
Jesus is God’s King who brings light and life to everyone that lives in the darkness of this world - even those we might least expect. If we want to enter the light of his kingdom we have to turn away from trying to find light in this world, and surrender our lives to him as the Light of the world.
In this passage we see that we can triumph over temptation by fixing our eyes on Jesus, because as we do that we're reminded that our Father is good, he will protect us, and that he promised us eternal glory.
In this passage God gives us glimpse behind the curtain into the spiritual realm. As we look behind the curtain we see the Son submit, the Father speak, and the Spirit descend, and we see that God offers the opportunity to enter into the his family.
John the Baptist prepares the way because that's who he is - it's his job - he also prepares the way in how he lives, what he does, and what he says
Jesus is God’s Son, Immanuel, the ruler of Israel, the true Israel, the true King, the Nazarene – we need to take refuge in him and in his death on the cross.
In Matthew 2, we see that Jesus is God's chosen, faithful, saving King, whose life and Lordship directly impacts how we live. We can either try and take control of our life, or surrender all to God's King.
Paul’s life gives us a glimpse of the prayers, priorities and passions of a Christian who is spiritually awake and ready for Christ’s return
Paul reminds us of the core gospel truths that we have to hold fast to if we want to stand firm as Christians – and not be swayed by persecution or false teaching – until Christ returns.
In this passage we see that the secret power of lawlessness is already at work in this world, and that power will ultimately be embodied by the man of lawlessness, before Christ returns. But Paul assures us that when Christ returns in all his splendour he will destroy the man of lawlessness forever
The church has been called out of the world to be a missional community that is sent into the world. They are continually sustained and empowered in this mission by the grace and peace that they receive from God
The Messiah comes through challenging and shameful circumstances, He is Jesus (our saviour) and Immanuel (God with us), and He comes calling us to fully trust and obey Him.
As we look at Jesus’ genealogy we learn that knowing Jesus offers us good news of amazing grace and lasting rest.
Jesus shows that he has complete control over death (in raising Lazarus) and ultimately in his own resurrection. We will see that this gives us a glimpse into a better world John 11:1-44
Jesus' resurrection is a shattering historical fact that offers our world a powerful message of hope! To embrace that message, we need to serve Jesus, as our true King.