Hope City Church Edinburgh: Recent Episodes
Hope City Church Edinburgh
What if your "happy place" isn't a beach, a holiday, or even your own home? Where is your Happy Place? As we continue our Songs of Ascents series in Psalm 122, we discover that our deepest happiness isn't found in a destination or circumstance, but in the presence of God with his people. Join us as we explore where our true "happy place" is and why lasting joy is found in Christ and his kingdom.
Our journey through life can sometimes feel like we are misinterpreted and misunderstood, or others twist our our words and we feel alone and helpless. Instead of responding in hostility or by compromising, this psalmist instead teaches us to entrust the situation to the Lord, just as Jesus did in his earthly life where his words were twisted and his enemies mocked him. He is the Prince of Peace who leads us to his City of Peace.
Colossians doesn’t end with a random list of names. It ends by showing how the gospel forms a community of friendship, partnership, kingdom vision, and faithfulness.
Paul has nearly finished his letter. What final advice does he want to give this band of believers in Colossae? How are they going to make sure that others hear of Christ? He calls them to prayer for those in the front line and to engage with the community around them.
Because Christians have died and been raised with Christ, their true life is now found securely in Him rather than in the temporary things of this world. As we look forward to Christ's return and our lives in Him, we should allow these truths to shape our lives now.
Rules. Experiences. Self-discipline. They can all look spiritual—but they don't change the heart. Colossians 2 points us back to what actually transforms us: being rooted in Christ—and transformed from the inside out.
Is Jesus enough? Should we be looking for something extra? This was the challenge the young church at Colossae faced from some false teachers. What should Paul advise? Can we really be complete in Christ? Discover how Paul answers those trying to infiltrate the church and how we should respond to the whispers of the world around us.
What does the Bible really mean when it says “you reap what you sow”? Explore how generosity is not a transaction with God, but a response to His grace. Discover how giving shapes our relationships, fuels gospel work, and overflows in thanksgiving to God. Listen now and reflect on what kind of harvest your life is sowing.
Colossians 1:1–8 shows that when ordinary believers in an ordinary place are rooted in Christ, the gospel produces a church marked by faith in Jesus, love for God’s people, hope for the future, and faithful servants who carry that good news to others.
Looking for real hope—not just wishful thinking? Christian hope isn’t fragile or imaginary. It’s unseen‑but‑sure. Why? Two reasons:1️⃣ God’s mighty love is for you. You are His treasure—chosen, forgiven, deeply valued. The cross proves it.2️⃣ God’s mighty power is for you. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work for your good.There is real hope—for you, for the church, for our city.
Come learn with us the secret of contentment rather than the poison of coveting which God shows us is not the path to life.
The sixth commandment Do Not Murder helps us see how precious life is because all human life belongs to God and is of infinite value to him. The inversible principle of this commandment is to cherish life which we can do because we have been first cherished by God
[set poll live] intro me - hello Crosspoint! So we’re starting today with a quiz: who do you think said this, and when? “Youth today love luxury. They have bad manners, contempt for authority, no respect for older people, and talk nonsense when they should work … They contradict their parents, talk too…
The third commandment speaks about misusing Gods's name. It's just about swearing, isn't it? In todays talk we'll unpack what it says and discover there's a lot more to it than that!
In a world where we instinctively “curate” everything—including our view of God—the second commandment calls us to stop reshaping Jesus into our image and instead receive the real God as he has revealed himself in Christ, surrendering to his Word, his people, and his transforming work:
Introducing a new series on the Ten Commandments - "Walk this way - God's path to life"
Ever have questions about why Christians pray? Ever wonder what to pray about? Join us for Prayer Sunday to learn more and have the opportunity to put it into practice.
Paul speaks of knowing the secret of being content no matter what disappointments we face. How does Jesus transform the way we respond to inevitable disappointments in life? We need CPR: Cry, Pray and Repent.
Exodus 19 shows us what happens when the holy God comes down to meet his people: he reveals their identity, calls them to prepare, and manifests his presence in awe-inspiring glory. But the distance at Sinai points us to a greater mediator in Jesus, who brings us not to fear and boundaries, but to joyful access at the heavenly Mount Zion.
Ever felt like God isn’t showing up when you need Him most? In Exodus 17, God’s people—fresh from miracles—face thirst in the desert and start demanding answers. This story isn’t just about water from a rock; it’s about hearts under pressure. What happens when we put God to the test—and discover He’s testing us too? Join us as we explore a God who can do the impossible, who reveals what’s inside us through trials, and who responds with grace even when we fail.
Once again God's people grumble against God. In an amazing act of grace he provides food for them and the l;essons to learn at this early stage of their journey. Ultimately that provision is temporary but serves to point us to Jesus, the bread of life.
Once again God's people grumble against God. In an amazing act of grace he provides food for them and lessons to learn at this early stage of their journey. Ultimately that provision is temporary but serves to point us to Jesus, the bread of Life.
God rescues his people through judgement, by providing a substitute, so that we might live shaped by his grace.
The case-study of a man who hardened his heart to God's word - and a warning to each os us.
When the Israelites ask to go to worship God, Pharaoh asks "Who is the Lord?" and makes things worse for them. In hard situations God reassures His people that He is the Lord, that He will rescue them and that they will know Him.
God answers our “Who am I?” not with pep talks but with “I am with you,” calling ordinary people to trust his Name, join his mission, and carry hope into our city.
When life feels stuck and God seems silent, can His promises still be trusted? In Exodus 2, we see a God who works behind the scenes, even when everything looks lost. We see hope for people who mess up. Discover why you can wait with patience, and how to wait in prayer—because God always keeps His word.
Exodus 1 shows how God’s people, once welcomed in Egypt, become feared and oppressed as their fruitfulness is seen as a threat by Pharaoh. Yet even in the face of slavery and attempted genocide, God’s promises endure and He works through the quiet courage of the powerless to preserve His people.
Our city is searching for purpose, peace, and hope—and we believe that hope is found in Jesus. In this Vision Sunday talk, we explore what it means to share that hope with our city, why it matters, and how every one of us can play a part. Discover the three priorities that shape our mission—upward, inward, and outward—and why hope doesn’t just add up, it multiplies.
The risen Jesus meets his hesitant followers on a mountain—not to scold them, but to send them. With all authority, to all nations, teaching all he commanded—with the promise he’s with us in all times.
Matthew 28:11–15 shows how the religious leaders responded to the empty tomb: instead of acknowledging the truth, they bribed the guards and spread a false story to cover it up. Their scheme highlights how fear and self-interest can blind people to God’s work, but also how even attempts to hide the resurrection only end up confirming its reality.
Jesus resurrection is factual - and if the facts are true, they drive a hope in death and a deep joy in life worshipping him.
Jesus' death provokes different responses from his followers and his enemies. Come explore with us the devotion of some, the desperation of others. Where do you stand?
Focusing on the three hours of darkness Jesus suffered on the cross: what it meant for him and what it means for us.
Even the faithful can feel far from God. Psalm 42–43 shows us how to hold on in the dark—by naming the ache, preaching to our souls, and seeking His presence—until the light finds us.
Where is your security? What is your security? Come consider with us where we can truly find security in life - and how.
David's psalm instructs us in how we should trust in the enduring presence and provision of Jesus, our Good Shepherd.
Both Judas and Peter failed Jesus, but only Peter returned to Him. It reminds us that while failure is a universal part of the Christian life, restoration is always possible through repentance and the grace of Jesus.
Jesus is betrayed, arrested, falsly tried, and mocked. His gentle submission is not weakness but strength of a willing Saviour longing to fulfil God's rescue plan for humanity
At the Last Supper, Jesus shows that everything is about to change—his death will bring freedom from sin, forgiveness through his sacrifice, and a seat at God’s table for people everywhere. This meal isn’t just looking back; it’s pointing us forward to the day we’ll feast with him in his Kingdom.
Ever feel like life’s a wild ride, throwing you off balance? Matthew 26:1-16 invites us to explore who’s really in control. From Jesus’ betrayal to a woman’s extravagant act of love, discover how God’s plan unfolds, even in chaos. You’re not driving—but Someone who loves you is. Join us to reflect on this truth: God gave His Son for you, proving His unshakable love. Ready to find hope in life’s unpredictability?
What if the problem isn't what you're doing for God - but what's going on in your heart?Its's possible to be busy with spiritual activities and still miss the point. But the good news is that Jesus doesn't wait for us to clean ourselves up - He comes to make us clean
What if the problem isn't what you're doing for God - but what's going on in your heart? Its's possible to be busy with spiritual activities and still miss the point. But the good news is that Jesus doesn't wait for us to clean ourselves up - He comes to make us clean.
Jesus' teaching on a coming judgement culminates with a picture of the throne room of God, with Jesus on the throne. As the Shepherd King, Jesus separates the sheep and the goats, pointing to a distinguising feature between the two.
Expectation and delay, preparation and disarray, celebration and dismay: this parable presents powerful contrasts. Discover how these themes challenge us to examine our own readiness for the return of Christ.
Jesus is answering the disciples question: "When will this happen and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?" Jesus says we aren't going to know when Jesus is going to return, but we know he will, so be ready!
Jesus warns of future hardships and false prophets, but assures us his words are lasting and he will return, offering ultimate hope and salvation. Instead of fearing the unknown, we should live faithfully, trusting in Jesus' promise to make all things right.
Facing modern anxieties, like nuclear war and AI threats, Jesus' words in Matthew 24 provide perspective. He warns of future catastrophes, like wars and persecution, but assures us these are "birth pains," not the end. Despite global turmoil, we shouldn't be alarmed. Instead, we must stand firm in our faith, resisting deception and encouraging one another. Be encouraged: the gospel will spread globally, and Jesus' kingdom will come.
Jesus responds to the hypocrisy of the Pharisees with a warning to his disciples: they could fall into the very same, very human, trap. Instead he calls them to choose service rather than status, to humble themselves, living and leading in an other-centred rather than self-centred way.
Jesus responds to the Sadducees’ trap by revealing their misunderstanding of both Scripture and God’s power, affirming that resurrection is real and that eternal life with God surpasses earthly relationships. He calls us to trust in God’s perfect plan, living in anticipation of the hope and joy of the resurrection.
Continuing his discussion with the Priests and Pharisees, Jesus tells another parable, likening the kingdom of heaven to a great wedding banquet. Since they have persistently rejected God’s invitation, God has rejected them and thrown open his banquet invitation to all who accept it.
Jesus enters the temple courts and profoundly interrupts their gathering. In disrupting Temple worship and cursing the fig tree, Jesus is demonstrating that the old ways of coming into God's presence were about to be changed forever.
"Jesus wasn't born in a stable". Look behind the traditions and explore the true story of Christmas and its message of hope for everyone
After Jesus predicts his death a third time, the mother of two of his disciples asks whether her sons could sit beside him in his eventual reign. His response reverberates through history to us today.
Jesus teaches that entry into God’s Kingdom is a free gift, not earned by effort or status. It challenges us to celebrate, rather than resent, God’s equal love for all.
A special set of reflections on Romans chapter 12 designed to complement our Arts Team's arrangement of all the text in the chapter.
Gnerosity is a gracious gift from the Lord that transforms our selfish hearts to love people and invest in his eternal kingdom
When Peter asks how many times he must forgive the one who sins against him, Jesus responds with a parable placing our forgiveness of others in the context of God's great forgiving of us. Come and explore what it truly means to be forgiven - and to forgive.
Following on from last Sunday, today’s talk focuses on Jesus’ guidance on how we should seek to restore a fellow Christian who has strayed from the truth.
Jesus lays out part of the design for his new kingdom, and tells his followers part of what their role will be in it.
Jesus heals a boy who had been possessed by a demon, but his disciples don't understand why they couldn't do it themselves. What role does faith play in following Jesus, and how can we avoid following a Jesus of our own creation?
Listen to God’s love story: The Son comes to serve, suffer and save Intro me Today we’re back in the Gospel of Matthew, his telling of the story of Jesus, and we’re looking at a key moment - extraordinary even in Jesus’ extraordinary life. But before we do, I want us to remember what’s going on around…
This week we take a break from our series in Matthew and explore the question, "What kind of church should we be?" looking at the end of Acts 2 and the priorities and practice of the early church.
Jesus’ disciples have just acknowledged his true identity, in this week’s passage he tells them why he’s come to earth, and what he expects of his followers.
Public opinions on Jesus may be honorific, yet they fall short of his real identity. Jesus wants you to know who he truly is, personally. Don't get stuck in other people's views.
Jesus encounters a Canaanite woman, who serves as an unlikely example of great faith. We learn from her that people of great faith know their unworthiness, act with persistent boldness, and trust the character and plan of Jesus.
Jesus reminds us that faith is about belief, not behaviour. It is not our external actions which truly matter but the heart that drives them all.
Jesus demonstrates he is God in word and deed as he walks on the water. Peter responds in faith and when that faith wavers, Jesus shows himself to be the compassionate saviour. The disciples respond to Jesus' identity with worship.
Jesus withdraws - but when the people come to him with need, he has compassion. He sees their needs, sends his disciples to meet it, supplies what it needed, and more than that, satisfies them.
Today we have a shocking story of what seems like a senseless injustice. What are we to make of this? What should we learn?
If you ever wonder whether God is at work in our world, God is doing big things from subtle beginnings - that's the main thing Jesus is teaching in his next set of parables!
big idea: judgement on evil planted in God’s good world must wait, but will come introduce me Why is there so much evil and suffering in our world? Where does it come from? What is at its root? I think probably the most common answer you’d get if you asked the average person on the street is “ a few…
With King David, God's Kingdom seems to reach its summit - finally under a king "after God's own heart". But as we see, David's heart is mixed. The Kingdom flourishes when he follows the true King but fractures when he makes his own way.
Every kingdom has a king, and every king has a design for his kingdom - and every king has a means to bring about that design. What is God's design for His Kingdom? And how will he bring it about?
God’s way often surprises us - but leads to victory Intro me Last week, Ed helped us see that Jesus declares himself greater than great King David, greater than the Holy Temple, greater even than the Sabbath, that central feature of Jewish identity. He’s making some serious claims - it almost feels like…
Jesus asks his followers to make a costly chooice. Following him may require significant sacrifices for us, but they are nothing compared to what he has done for us.
Jesus is the True Vine, stay apart of the True Vine and He will produce much fruit in you
Go to the lost, give what you got, and bring peace. intro me We talk a lot at Hope City about how the Bible is our absolute authority - over tradition, over culture - because we believe it is God’s word to us. We want to be a church which hears what God has to say through it, and a church that tries…
The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Make sure you answer the call for workers.
Live life shaped by Messiah’s merciful call Intro me Rather than looking at tiny slices of the bible in isolation, reading things in context is always important. Each passage we study fits into the bigger story, slotted together with those around it like puzzle pieces. This week it’s particularly important…
Jesus calls Mathew the tax collector to follow him, and then joins "taxcolllectors and sinners" for dinner. To the Pharisees this is a scandal. To Jesus, this is essential mission. He is like a physician enerstly seeking out the sick to bring them healing.
Jesus knows our greatest problem is our sin which will kill us forever. He has the authority and the heart to forgive us.
Jesus meets two demon-possessed men and demonstrates his power and authority over evil. He shows us that he is good and we can trust in him.
In the storm, Jesus demonstrates his awesome authority - this time, over nature. The fearful fishermen have little faith - but Jesus saves by grace even those with little faith.
The centurion is celebrated by Jesus for his amazing faith - a faith which grasps that Jesus will save the unworthy.
As Jesus concludes his famous teaching, the Sermon on the Mount, he chooses to finish with a clear call not just to hear, but to obey. The crowds are amazed that he teaches with such authority. We reflect together on how we should respond.
Jesus warns us to watch out for false prophets (or guides) - and teaches us how to spot them: by looking for the fruit of a transformed heart in their lives
Hod wants to give good gifts to his children. J esus calls us to ask, seek and knock with commitment and persistence
Summary of Sermon Jesus warns against hypocrisy while fasting - teaching an "inward" practice before God, not an "outward" practice before men.
Jesus teaches us to pray for spiritual protection from evil that comes from within ourselves and from our enemy, the devil.
How to pray - the Jesus' way, by taking a fresh look in depth at the best-known prayer in the Bible with some suprising insights and challenges to our own prayers.
Jesus teaches us to pray for the eyes of our Father in heaving, knowing we have his ear and his heart.
As we continue to reflect on God's transformation of us as people, and the Kingdom he is bringing, this week we consider truth and oaths - important because of the character of God and of his Kingdom.
When Jesus expounds on the heart of the Law in relation to adultery he shows us it reaches right to the heart of Lust. How can we find a way to his Kingdom of purity and faithfulness through a world like ours?
What does Jesus teach us about anger as he sets out his blueprint for the Kingdom of Transformed Hearts?
Jesus calls for a righteousness which surpasses that of the Pharisees and Scribes - how is that possible? Only through an inside-out righteousness coming from a transformed heart.
As Jesus approaches Jerusalem and is welcomed with shouts of joy, he weeps - if only they had responded. Israel were given innumerable opportunities - but they have rejected God's messiah which comes with inevitable consequences.
Jesus describes our nature and purpose as his Kingdom people: salt and light; transformed people who he'll use to transform the world to God's glory.
The speaker provides an overview of the Sermon on the Mount and different interpretational approaches to the Sermon. He demonstrates that the Sermon is Jesus' blueprint for His Kingdom of Transformed Hearts
As Jesus comes to John for baptism, we see he is the true fulfilment of Israel, being everything it should have been, and he receives from God the accolade due true Israel: "this is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased." We can hope for this same declaration over us as God's people through our incorporation into Christ in baptism.
As we enter a new year, we take some time to think together about what the names given to the Christmas child mean for us given the struggles of the year that has passed and the challenges we know lie ahead in the year to come.
Pat encourages us to look for and celebrate the foreshadowing of the true and greater redemption we have in Christ through the story of Ruth's redemption by Boaz - and to recognise our roles as the church, His body here on earth, to play our part in that work as we wait for Him.
Naomi's circumstances have made her bitter - is there a balm for bitterness? How do we cope when life "goes wrong" and how do we respond to difficulties and failures - especially when we trust that God is in control as sovereign? When bitterness drives us from him, we need to return to him, listen to him - but we also need to wait for his timing. Listen and explore the passage with Peter.
As Ruth, Orpah and Naomi begin their journey back, they reach a crossroads. Come and explore what it is that leads Naomi to try and turn her daughters-in-law back, and what it is that helps Ruth keep going. Lots to learn.
In a world filled with trouble and difficulty, how are we to respond? Following the story of Ruth - and particularly Naomi - we see the consequences of the choice to walk away from God. We're also reminded of the hope there always is when we turn back to him.
We've come to the end of Acts and we summarised it from the perspective that it's a Spirit-empowered, boundary-crossing GROWTH story. It encourages us in our faith journey of growth, and as we boldly share the gospel.
Colin talks us through Acts 28:1-16, reminding us to set our gaze on God and His promises, serve those we have been placed with now, and support and encourage our leaders.
As Paul works his way through the Roman justice system, he, like Jesus, experiences injustice. What hope is there for us in a world filled with injustice?
Intro me So where are we up to? Paul, the key character we’ve been following, founder of many of the first Christian churches, is bringing it back to where it all began, back to Jerusalem. He’s been away many years, and he knows there’s trouble ahead - but ahead he goes anyway. And I think that’s driven…
David helps us explore how Paul uses his story to share the gospel from Acts 21:37-22:22.
As we saw the Apostle Paul come towards the end of his missionary journey and face difficulties ahead, we learned together about the importance of understanding the route of Christian life and that it is essential that we work to finish the race.
God’s in the business of transforming lives, and Kingdom transformation is contagious. Intro me Ephesus = Ephesians = no! f-esus. so whenever I say e-fesus, you say “no, f-esus” Peter painted a great picture of Ephesus for us last week: one of the great cities of the Roman empire, perhaps as many as…
We learn so much from Paul's approach to the mighty and magical city of Ephesus: the Word grows and has the power to transform even a great city.
Matt takes us through Acts 17:16-34, encouraging us to engage more thoughtfully with those around us.
What do we learn from the stories of Paul and his team in Thessalonica and Berea? That we should trust the Scriptures like Paul does, and that we should test what we're hearing against them as the Bereans do.
What are we to do when life "goes wrong"? Today's passage shows us how we can hang on to God in the midst of struggle and suffering.
This week we are looking at Paul's encounter with a fascinating woman named Lydia who moves from being a God-worshipper to a Christ-follower. We'll reflect upon how the good news of Jesus moves her from being on the outside of faith to the inside of the family of God.
God with God and be ready to take the intitive but dont worry if you need to take a u-turn
repentance is the path from death to life intro me... Today we’re thinking about that moment when all hope is lost. We’re looking at the famous story of Jonah from the bible, and we’re in the middle of it if you’ve just joined us. Last week, in the heart of an epic storm, we saw Jonah thrown overboard.…
The short book of Jonah begins with a prophet, close to God with the priveledge of hearing His voice, hearing God's instruction and choosing instead of obeying it to head in the opposite direction. Why do we so often do the same thing? What can we do if we realise we're headed in the wrong direction?
Matt talks us through Galatians 6:11-18, highlighting that our real hope is in the new creation.
Matt speaks from Galatians 5 on competing desires and how to live in freedom by the Spirit rather than conorming to external rules.
Isaiah challenges us to look forward with hope, as we look back and know God is faithful to his promise
law leads away from God’s family where grace leads towards it Intro me Galatians 4:21 (NIV) Tell me, you who want to be under the law... Today’s passage is all about a group of people who want to “be under the law”. What it means by “the law” is the Jewish religious Law, called the Torah: a huge set…
John talks us through Galatians, highlighting that Jesus took the curse for us so that we may be made right with God :-)
Matt talks us through Galatians 1:1-10 and reminds us that it's all grace or no gospel at all.
Jesus alone is needed for salvation. We put other things in our minds to equal salvation but we need to remember grace alone.
Intro me A 2018 survey showed just over half of UK adults pray - way more people than would call themselves religious or go to church. Half of those prayer-ers, that’s a quarter of UK adults, believe that God hears them. Perhaps the other half must be banking on the power of our thoughts, or just not…
History of the church. A Tale of two Cities A tale of two Pastors. A tale of two Cities (Edinburgh) Hand of God working through His people.
We see the persecutor become the preacher; the preacher becomes persecuted; and from persecution comes peace. We see that we can enjoy that same peace through repentance and faith.
Amazing Grace- Come learn more about the Human Condition and how we can be in relationship with God.
Divine Conspiracy- God will call us to do His work and we should go and do the job as He wants us to do.
Big Idea: amaze people to advance God’s Kingdom not your own Intro: impressing people Anyone ever tried to get scouted, to really stand out in their sport? Not me - no chance! What about trying to stand out so you get cast as someone significant in a play or a film? Anyone? When’s the last time you wanted…
As the Jerusalem church continues to grow it begins to encounter new problems - growing pains. What can we learn for church life today from how that first church responded?
Death comes to the paradise of the new church in Jerusalem - what can we learn from the scary story of judgement on Ananias and Sapphira?
The world's view of greatness is power and rule, applause and acclaim. As Jesus' disciples argue over greatness, Jesus teaches them about true greatness: Those who are great among his people are humble like children. Those who lead among his people are to lead by serving. This is the sort of greatness that God honours - as he does by exalting Jesus who models it perfectly.
Caleb teaches us that there is nothing that we can bring to God's table. He has done it all.
Matt teaches about how Judas and the cheif priests plotted to betray Jesus but they didn't realiize that their plot would fail.
Catch up on everything that's new in the life of the church: new appointments, new plans, new financial updates, and the like. You know you want to have a listen!
Jesus calls out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and highlights the true generosity of the widow who, though she gives little, sacrificed much. Jesus cares about the inside, and the heart, not these fake external things.
Jesus' opponents attempt to trap him but as Jesus escapes their trap, he also teaches us something profound about how we relate to God: We belong to God - He created us, He rescued us, bought us back from the trouble we'd gotten ourselves into. Jesus calls us to give back to God what belongs to him: everything.
Jesus tells a parable which shows the Jewish leaders and people that they have been warned repeatedly and are ignoring the warnings - so judgement will come. Jesus knows they will kill him - the parable makes this clear. They know Jesus is speaking against them - that's explicit. But still they ignore the warning - like Israel has done again and again through their long history. But Israel is just a smaller pictuire of humanity at large: tasked by God to look after his garden and rule over his world, we've filled it with brokeness rather than beauty. A time of judgement will come if we keep ignorning creation's owner - will you heed the warning? Will you change?
Jesus comes to the temple and puts a spanner in the works - so the religious leaders are out to get him. Buy why is Jesus so upset about what's going on at the temple? Because Jesus hates (fake) religion.
Jesus enters Jerusalem like a king and is welcomed like one - but the Pharisees question this. Jesus knows he will be rejected by them - but also that judgement is coming for those who reject him. The question for us is whether we recognise the king, and whether we'll proclaim him to others.
Jesus tells a parable to help his disciples understand that the Kingdom will not be established immediately as he arrives in Jerusalem - instead he will be "going away" to be crowned king before returning with all power and authority. In the parable he helps his disciples understand how they are to conduct themselves as servants while he is away: to put what they have been given to work for him.
A dive into Psalm 2 looking at the aspect of what it looks like to fight the reign of Christ vs. Submit to it.
What are you expecting this Christmas? The birth of Jesus was actually very different to what we celebrate today. So what does it mean for us in 21st Century Edinburgh? We look together at a passage of the Bible written 700 years before that first Christmas, telling us what we should expect. Isaiah 53.
What are you hoping for? Matthew Round explains a passage from the Gospel of Matthew and dares us to put our hope in something better.
Who truly sees? Luke 18:35-43. Jesus heals a blind man and teaches us vital lessons for the way we live today.
When a rich ruler asks Jesus what more he needs to do, Jesus gives him an impossible challenge: to let go of all that belongs to him, and to follow Jesus. The challenge is meant to show him his real problem is with his heart. It's a problem that is impossible to solve without God - and yet God changes hearts of stone for hearts of flesh, bringing new life. Peter knows what it's like to leave everything and follow Jesus - and Jesus reassures him that we can never find ourselves worse off because of leaving something behind to follow Him.
Jesus teaches us about approaching him like little children: humble, dependent, and insignificant. Jesus tells his disciples not to hinder people who come to him like this.
Jesus uses the picture of a Pharisee and a tax coillector's approach to prayer to show that in God's Kingdom, the only way up is down: those who humble themselves are exalted - those who think themselves right before God remain distant from him.
Does God even care about the injustice in the world? This week Jesus teaches us to be persistant in prayer as he speaks about his coming justice. Luke 18:1-8
Jesus is asked 'When will the Kingdom of God come?". He teaches us about the time he will come back to earth to judge all people - and how that knowledge of the future should impact the way we live today. Luke 17:20-37
Jesus cleanses ten lepers who cry out to him, hoping for an end to their separation from other people and from the community of faith - but only one comes back to give him thanks and praise, recognising him as God in the flesh, the source of healing and salvation. Jesus comes to end our separation from God - and if we understand he is the source of that healing, we will overflow with thankfulness towards him.
The Duties of Disciples Jesus teaches his disciples the importance of rebuking and forgiving fellow believers. Luke 17:1-10
Jesus tells us a story of reversal in the afterlife? What are we to learn? The king demands generous stewardship; there are consequences to ignoring his design; and what's needed to change the direction of a life isn't more information or evidence, but a change of heart.
Jesus tells us a new age has dawned - but what's new about it? The king hasn't changed and neither has his good design for his Kingdom as Jesus shows us by highlighting the continuity of the Law. It is a new age of grace: those who live outside of God's design are urged to come into his kingdom, under his good rule, and recieve his boundless grace. A longer talk than ususal because we address the difficult and sensitive subject of divorce.
Our periodic update on what's new in the church and an opportunity to ask questions and discuss.
Jesus tells a surprising parable about a dishonsest manager. What are we to learn from this? Jesus is challenging us to have our eyes on eternity, and to be actively investing for it.
Big Idea: Heaven rejoices over repentance so Jesus seeks lost people Introduction I wonder just how much of a parent’s life is spent hunting for things their children have lost? Parents, what do you think? 30%? This week Rachael and I were hunting for a tiny piece of lego that our daughter Elizabeth…
One of the most famous parables in the Bible, but what does it say to you and me today?
Learn why we have evening gatherings at Hope City and why we do them in the way we do! We don't think we have it perfected at all but at least you'll understand our thinking.
When Jesus is challenged over hanging around with the wrong sort of people he responds with three stories showing us how much God misses his lost children, and how he wants his people to rejoice when they're brought home. This is God's heart - and it should be ours too.
Jesus speaks hard words about what it will mean to truly follow him: have we understood the cost of discipleship? Are we ready for what it will mean for our lives? Come and explore what Jesus has to say.
Nothing will turn Jesus aside from his mission which will be completed at Jerusalem - even though it will cost him his life. Jesus goes on because he longs to offer refuge to God's people - but they are not willing. Still the hope is held out that one day, some will be among the crowd that welcomes Jesus, ultimately victorious, into the presence of his Father, God.
This week Matt unpacks Luke 13:22-30 with stern warnings and a warm encouragement from Jesus. Jesus says don't procrastinate and don't presume.
Jesus explains the Kingdom of God with two short parables, showing it will grow from small to large in the world, and that once it begins it's work in someone, they will be completely transformed.
Jesus upsets the religious authorities by healing on the Sabbath again. Why does he seem to play fast and loose with Jewish religious rules? Because they have fundamentally misunderstood the basis for the Sabbath: a celebration of freedom rather than another burden. Jesus comes to bring freedom.
Jesus comments on two tragedies showing that it is not guilt and sin which lead to them, but at the same time warning that "unless you repent you too will perish." Only this bad news prepares us for the good news that Jesus came in order that no-one should perish.
Jesus tells us he comes not to bring peace but division - division because hypocrites reject his warning about the judgement to come. And yet his warning is also filled with hope since he himself will pay the debt that we could never pay.
This week we look at a passage in Luke which discussing the return of Jesus Christ. Come and listen as we dive into what it means to be ready for Christs return. The Q&A is also recorded for this weeks talk.
We included the Q&A this week hence the longer recording. Ed gives us a talk from Luke and Jesus' command for us to not worry. Come take a listen if you missed us this morning or you just want to hear it again.
Greed harms others - but it also harms us ourselves so Jesus tells us to be on our guard against it. Jesus tells a story of a rich man and his folly to teach us how.
Intro a) Do you have any irrational, and entirely ridiculous fears? i) I do… I have an irrational and entirely ridiculous fear of moths. • If a moth comes anywhere near me I’m like a caffeinated rave dancer, on ice. • It’s irrational. • It’s an insect! • I’m 38.75 times bigger than it! • It’s ridiculous.…
When Jesus is asked for a sign he says the only one they'll get is the "sign of Jonah". What does this teach us about signs, about seeing them, and about how to respond? Listen along and let's explore.
Jesus' evident power over evil supernatural forces raises questions. In explaining its source, Jesus shows us behind the curtain of the supernatural battle raging in our world - and he shows us we must join one side or the other - there's no middle ground.
In the middle of Jesus' teaching on prayer he presents us with a parable which can be challenging to understand: a tale of a friend arriving at midnight, and a host with no bread. What is Jesus teaching us here about prayer? Peter explains
When Jesus' disciples ask him how to pray, he gives them a pattern for prayer, balancing intimacy with respect, reorienting ourselves, getting our priorities straight, and then seeking God's help.
Give the talk a listen and find out if you are a Martha or Mary. We discuss the difference between service to Christ and devotion to Christ.
The Good Samaritan is such a well known parable it's hard for us to appreciate just how much of an oxymoron the phrase "good samaritan" would have been for the original audience! But what is Jesus' point with the parable? Is it just a moral message about being kind to other people? No - there's more - listen and learn!
"The King is coming" is the urgent message for the world - but the king comes offering peace; while the movement announcing his coming begins with only a few, many will respond as it multiplies. Those who reject it have been warned - they are rejecting God himself. Rejoice: Jesus reveals God and offers peace with him to the weak not the wise.
Jesus presents three potential disciples with challenges to following him, helping us see the cost, urgency and focus required in joining his urgent mission. No room for excuses or delay - even for things which seem precious to us.
We all long for greatness, for significance. Often we pursue that through competition: pulling others down or pushing ourselves up. Jesus shows us true greatness through his obedience all the way to the cross. He gives each of his followers significance by sending us with that nmessage.
Are we really listening to Jesus? Jesus confronts the crowds and his disciples to challenge them to truly believe what He is saying.
Jesus leads his inner circle of three up to a mountaintop for an amazing, unforgettable experience of God's glory - but it's only fleeting. Peter wants to extend the moment - but Jesus sets his face towards Jerusalem, towards the new and greater Exodus that he will lead God's people into.
The disciples reach a crucial crossroads in their journey with Jesus when he challenges them regarding his identity. Peter correctly identifies him as Messiah - and then Jesus sets out what the path of Messiah and of his followers looks like.
Jesus draws his disciples into his mission - calling them from the stands onto the pitch. He sends them out empowered and yet dependent, expecting some will receive his message but others will reject it. Discipleship isn't a spectator sport.
Listen to Pat walk us through the steps of faith through the story of Jairus and the unamed woman.
Jesus delivers a man from a legion of demons, showing his power. The demons know one day Jesus will judge and destroy them - but this time they are cast into a herd of pigs. But the townspeople are more concerned for the pigs than the people!
Following Jesus isn't plain sailing - as the disciples discover. We should not expect following Jesus to be all plain sailing - but he is with us in the storm, he cares, and he's able to bring us safe through it.
Jesus speaks about the difference between hearing and truly listening: putting into practice.
Each year we take one Sunday to remember and renew our vision as a church. We exist in order to win as many as possible to the good news of Jesus. The talk explains how we plan to pursue this vision in 2019.
The parable of the sower is aimed not at the soil, to challenge it to change, but at the sower, challenging them to keep on sowing, confident that sometimes it will yield amazing fruit - new disciple-making disciples.
It is shocking that the Messiah's birth should be announced to shepherds rather than princes or priests - but that's because Jesus' birth is good news of great joy for all people.
Mary and Joseph seem to be in Bethlehem just by an accident of circumstance - but in fact it is God's plan unfolding in front of our eyes; He places them carefully in just the right "spot" to reboot the line of David with the long-promised deliverer.