Sermons from All Souls Church: Recent Episodes
All Souls Church in St Margarets near Twickenham
Services at All Souls are at 10am and occasional 6pm (see website for details). Our services bring together children and adults of all ages for a relaxed and informal time, characterised by a friendly welcome, contemporary music, lively children’s groups, opportunity for personal prayer and a relevant bible-based talk. You don’t have to fit a particular mold to come along – whether you’re coming with children or on your own, as someone living locally or visiting the area, looking to join or to visit just once, you will find a friendly welcome. Our groups for children are imaginatively led, fun and safe environments for the young to explore faith.
The church is led by Joe Sellers , Vicar of All Souls, together with a range of teams that oversee the various aspects of the church’s life and work.
Tina continues our series in the gospel of Matthew, by looking at 'the parable of the workers in the vineyard' or 'the parable of the generous landowner', as she suggests that it should be called...
Ritesh continues with our series from the Gospel of Matthew by reminding us that salvation requires surrender to Jesus.
Joe looks at Matthew 19:1-15 to discover what it means to honour marriage, singleness and children.
Tina continues our series on Baptism by looking at what it means to be dead and buried in Christ, but also to be alive in Him too.
Joe continues our series on baptism and confirmation, by looking at what it means to be baptised
Joe continues our series in the gospel of Matthew by looking at chapter 17 vs 14-21, and seeing what relevance fasting has for us today.
Joe concludes our 'Foundations' series by looking at what Genesis 1-3 has to tell us about our future hope
In the penultimate sermon from our series focussing on Genesis chapters 1-3, Joe takes a look at what this section of the Bible has to say about sin.
Joe continues our series from the opening chapters of Genesis looking at what it has to say about marriage.
Mike continues our series from the beginning of Genesis by examining what relevance Sabbath rest has to us today.
Ritesh continues our series from the beginning of Genesis, looking at what it has to teach us about our work and vocations.
Our new curate, Tina English, looks at the practice of prayer and how it can be woven into our lives.
Joe continues our 'Foundations' series from the beginning of Genesis, and looks at what it means to be made in the image of God.
Joe begins a new series looking at Genesis 1-3, focusing first of all on the origin story and what it means for us today.
43, we see how God meets us when we’re dry, overwhelmed, or longing for justice. Through Jesus — the one who was truly forsaken for us — we discover a hope that holds, and a reason to say, “I will yet praise Him.”
43, we see how God meets us when we’re dry, overwhelmed, or longing for justice. Through Jesus — the one who was truly forsaken for us — we discover a hope that holds, and a reason to say, “I will yet praise Him.”
43, we see how God meets us when we’re dry, overwhelmed, or longing for justice. Through Jesus — the one who was truly forsaken for us — we discover a hope that holds, and a reason to say, “I will yet praise Him.”
In this sermon Joe reflects on Matthew 10:1-15, where Jesus empowers his disciples to heal and preach. As we start a new year, Joe highlights the timeless mission of spreading the Gospel despite cultural challenges. Emphasizing fellowship, reliance on God, and resisting cultural pressures, Jesus calls believers to adopt two postures in 2025. To grow in faith "together, not alone" and to serve as ambassadors of God’s kingdom - "presence, not distance".
Joe encourages us to adopt 2 more postures this year - "trust, not worry" and "faithfulness, not compromise". He highlights Jesus' call for both innocence and shrewdness, balancing peace with wisdom. Followers face spiritual warfare, opposition, and suffering, yet Jesus assures them of God's presence. We must trust the Holy Spirit for guidance, remain steadfast, and seek community through discipline, prayer, and fellowship in faith.
In this talk Joe examines how discipleship—being with Jesus, becoming like him, and doing what he did—shapes our response to suffering. Using Job’s story, he explores three types of comfort: the “bad comfort” from Eliphaz, who moralized Job’s suffering; the “better comfort” from Job himself, who openly lamented to God; and the ultimate comfort found in the gospel. Suffering, like Jacob’s limp after wrestling with God, isn’t always holy or meaningful, but it can transform us. Disciples are called to comfort others with food, rest, and presence, not explanations, trusting God amidst life’s unanswered questions.
Mike takes a look at how Matthew responds to Jesus, and how Jesus responds to the Pharisees' criticism of him eating with tax collectors and sinners. After introducing Matthew, Mike considers how Jesus explains that just like a doctor is needed for the sick, he has come for those in need, not the self-righteous. Mike invites reflection on whether we identify with the Pharisees, especially when we feel disconnected from God due to failures in prayer or Bible reading, and reminds us that God's love remains constant and unchanging, regardless.
In this talk Joe explores Jesus's authority in Matthew 8:28. His authority is unique—self-sacrificial and loving, unlike the "authority that's hurt you." It’s accepted by consent, not force; those who reject it can remain in their "comfortable brokenness." Yielding to Jesus means seeing others as precious beloved children, not objects of resentment or desire. Struggling to submit is part of faith—it’s a “constant battle” to live as “living sacrifices” (Romans 12). If we are to wield Jesus's authority we first need to yield him. Through prayer and trust, we align with God's will, calling into being a world “that isn’t yet.”
The disciples in the boat ask, "What kind of man is this?" when Jesus calms the storm, a question rooted in the significance of the sea in Jewish culture. In the Old Testament, the sea symbolizes chaos and death, but God alone has the power to control it. Jesus' act of rebuking the winds reveals his divine authority, claiming power over the chaos of creation. This story shifts Jesus from being seen as a teacher to being acknowledged as lord. His authority extends beyond his teachings, pointing to his true nature. Do you think he is lord, liar or lunatic?
Joe explores discipleship and suffering through Job’s story and Jesus’ resurrection. Discipleship mirrors apprenticeship: being with, becoming like, and doing what Jesus did. Job’s suffering shows the importance of honesty with God and rejecting the idea that suffering reflects failure. Like Job, we can trust our Redeemer—God himself—to vindicate us. Jesus’ resurrection demonstrates that we, like him, will be raised bodily, scars and all. Suffering, though painful, can bear fruit, reframed in eternity as part of God’s redemptive plan. Our hope lies in a risen Christ who transforms pain into glory and promises ultimate restoration.
Joe looks at how we all suffer and ask "Why?". We revisit part 1 of our vision - to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus, and to do what Jesus did - and ask "how does this apply to us when we're suffering?" Joe highlight that God didn't strike Job; but he was there and in charge. Job suffered - stripped of wealth, family and health - but he didn't blame God. Our proof that God loves us is Jesus; though perfect he suffered to give us hope. Joe encourages us in suffering to draw near to God, be honest and to know that God loves you. faith by stripping him of his wealth, family, and health, yet Job remains faithful despite intense suffering. The reflection highlights that discipleship means trusting God during hardship, not just in good times. Jesus’ suffering shows God's love, offering hope in the midst of life's struggles.
Welcoming us back after Summer Joe sets up the next sermon series. "What do I believe?" and "How should I live?" are two fundamental questions humans ask themselves. In our modern, fractured society life can be particularly unsettling but the truths of Christianity continue to provide hope. We return to our vision - being with Jesus, becoming like him and doing what he did. We will look through a fresh lens - discipleship through suffering. Why do we experience it and how should we deal with it? We are going to work through at the ancient and insightful book of Job.
Joe brings us another from our series in Matthew's gospel, today looking at the disguises of the 'Wolf Pack'...
Joe continus our series in the gospel of Matthew, looking at 2 verses that offer 2 ways...
Joe looks at Jesus' teaching from Matthew 7:7-12 regarding asking, seeking and knocking...
Joe talks about eyes as the receivers and transmitters of light. We are constantly looked upon by God even if - like Garfield (according to the movie) - you aren't aware of your father's presence. Knowing you are cared for you see the world - counter-culturally - as a place of abundance rather than one of scarcity and share accordingly. Learn to look with care and see the world as God sees you.
Joe confronts us with Jesus's teaching on money - what does how we invest tell about who we are and what we believe? Heaven is here and now and everytime we spend we vote for the kind of world we want to live in. So what does our spend profile say about who we are? Take a look at your bank statement to sense how anchored to the future (or rooted in the past) you now/still are. Jesus lived a life of simplicity, generosity and concern for the poor; do we? Challenging teaching today as it was way back then.
Ritesh takes a look at fasting - starting with his own journey. Being a food lover, he was initially reluctant but, with some family nudging, he joined in too. Ritesh reflects on the sincerity and humility Jesus is looking for through this discipline. The health benefits of fasting have received considerable interest but it is primarily about creating a space for spiritual nourishment; making a space for us to receive.
Joe looks at Matthew 5:43-48 and tries to uncover what it truly means to us today to love our enemies.
Maf starts with a parallel - 007 expected to protect the British way of life (but acting contrary to it) and the Jewish Messiah - expected to arrive as an all-conquering military hero but manifested in a carpenter's son who preached peace and forgiveness. Maf looks at 3 familiar examples of how Jesus encouraged us to be freed from bitterness and resentment. Overcome evil with good - by turning the cheek, handing over your coat, going the extra mile; confront evil with grace, humility and humour.
Joe encouragingly points us to the most sense-making decades of our lives - our 70s, our 80s and our 60s - which most of us have to look forward to :-). He then goes on to talk about truth - a timely topic in our swirl of post-truth, deep fakes, filters and curated content. Do as you would be done by; do what you say you will; be truthful (no spin) - Jesus puts us straight - it is either "yes" or "no".
Joe teases apart a thorny topic; Jesus's teaching on human failures ranging from lust and adultery to divorce. How are we to deal with our impulses? "You can not stop the birds from flying overhead but you can stop them from nesting in your hair", Joe reflects, recalling the wisdom of Martin Luther. Grace, repentence and a God-given change of heart are what is needed.
Joe joins up recent sermons to show how Jesus' stretching expectations - e.g. righteousness beyond that of the pharisees - can (only) be fulfilled through a change of heart. Personal affront (holding a grudge) may result in expressions of anger which reflects the state of one's heart. What starts with a thwarted will can lead to personal insult, self-righteousness, contempt, a lack of appreciation for others, resentment and violence - what starts small can kill us. Jesus gives practical instructions for how to deal with anger early and at depth.
Bishop Emma reflects on her favourite passage. She takes apart the word Jesus used for "blessed" (separating it from the conditional "you will be blessed if...") and goes through each of the "Good on you when..." statements that comprise "the beatitudes". Full dependence is what we need; to recognise our reliance on God, generate genuine gratitude and be in right relationship with our peers.
Ritesh continues our series showing how Jesus fulfilled the law. Jesus showed how to live a righteous life from the heart. Ritesh takes us back to God's choice of David - a man after his own heart. We then go back to Jeremiah and Ezekiel and God's promise to transform us from inside to out. Don't pretend - confess - yield and be changed. This is what matters.
Having looked at the four different perspectives of the four gospel writers Jon zooms in on salt to start today's session. Salt's role then was primarily as a preservative - to slow deterioration and decay. We are called to preserve what is good and wholesome. With a vivid recollection from the darkness of the nightime desert Jon goes on to show how light similarly needs to be exposed to keep darkness away and help people see the way to God.
Joe picks up the story in Matthew where Jesus leaves the wilderness and starts teaching. What does Jesus call us to do in 2024? Are we to talk about his ethics, his love for the lost, his exhortation to love your neighbour? Well, repentance is the foundation, in recognition of the king and his kingdom. Having allowed humans the freedom to choose God is reclaiming his world; so repent (respond!) for the kingdom of heaven is near...
Mike takes us through a familiar passage (when Jesus was led to a solitary place) and asks "What is the wilderness?", "What is temptation?" and "So what?". He compares Jesus's experience to that of the people of Israel being led from the abundance of fertile Egypt and out into the desert. Mike bounces us through parallels - from the Post Office to Potiphar to his own hospital bed experience - to illustrate how God works through empty times; giving us strength to endure as we hear our hearts beating.
Joe starts us off with context - recognising the bible was built by many authors and whose architect is God. He then invites us to consider Matthew through 3 focal lenses - our visionary cornerstones - being with Jesus, learning to be like him and doing as he did. With that backdrop he then takes us through how John prepared the way for the coming king... who then humbles himself and asks to be baptised by John. God with us.
Joe takes on a challenging passage to push through January. Not a common Nativity story but it is there in the book - child murder, sudden departure, being refugees. Becoming like Jesus - a whole and integrated life - this may not play out as we expect... Joe draws upon the teachings of wise Christian leaders as well as a personal encounter with a shooter in the shadows to highlight how we should expect to fight through life - take heart!
All Souls welcomes Richard back to finish off our vision series. Remembering camping excursions and the "collecting the kit" stage he reflects on stuff - for a church that is people buildings and money - and encourages us each to ask not "What do we do with what we've got?" but "Why has God given this to us?". Using a passage from 1 Chronicles he highlights how a sense of scarcity (for some) and a sense of pride (for others) are both anxiety inducing. Realising that it is all God's anyway helps us see that he has plenty and sees further than we do, and to be grateful and generous.
On safeguarding Sunday Joe, Katherine and Eva take us through why as well as how we are to honour all members of the church body. We all go through times when we are particularly vulnerable due to our own unique circumstances. As a church we need to continually be watchful; looking out for one another and looking after one another. We need to be mindful of past failings and the positive role of safeguarding, an outworking of God's heart - we all have roles to play.
Joe starts this week by asking how we'd advise our younger selves - what would you tell younger you? Asaph, in Psalm 78, talks about the responsibility to share testimony from generation to generation - "teach them to know God and follow his ways". God searches you, knows you and loves you; we need to instill this sense of connection and appreciation in the next generation. Joe encourages and commits us to inter-generational church - it's challenging as well as fun.
Maf talks about home improvements. It can seem like the work never stops - as soon as one job is done another begins... In the church, given that Jesus is the builder and we need to keep growing, individually and collectively, this is a good thing(!). Maf reflects on how we respond to change - resisting it, tolerating it or embracing it. He parallels church growth with lego construction - it may not be clear exactly how we'll look but we are all pieces to build with.
Joe talks about what it is to be hands and feet. He asks us to think about a familiar story - the tale of the good samaritan - differently. Identify first with the one cared for rather than those who encountered him. We love because Jesus first loved us. Joe then familiarises us with opportunities in our own neighbourhood - including Ivybridge - to contribute once we have seen ourselves as cared for and want to share.
On this baptism day Maf eases us into the sermon with 3 short readings and Joe acquaints us with the wider church's London 2030 vision - confident disciples forming compassionate communities leading to creative growth. Being baptised into God's expansive family we learn to be confident of God's rescue and confident sharing the good news.
Parallel bible passages from the old and new testaments launch us into this sermon on being sent. Joe shares family stories of superhero appeal - being part of something bigger - and his own honest response to the prospect of leading mission. We live in a society that seeks self satisfaction but risk missing out on the joy of mission. We are called out for a higher purpose - will you respond as Isaiah (and Joe) did?
Concluding this short September series Joe starts with the tale of a dampened Bible - open on Isaiah 35. What does it mean to do what Jesus did (then and now)? Lots of topics - preach the gospel, teach the way, heal the sick, cast out demons, eat and drink with those far from God, pray, prophesy, stand against corruption, etc. - and there are lots of options to connect and explore these together - find out more on our website:https://www.allsoulschurch.org.uk/diary/ and be in contact: https://www.allsoulschurch.org.uk/contact/ :-).
Joe dips again into Isaiah 35 to refocus us on Jesus. Our formation depends on our focus and we are constantly subject to temptation and distraction. If we are to be like Jesus we need to practice long obedience. There is a highway. It is for the redeemed (not to redemption). Find it. Focus. Follow. Be like Jesus to find freedom, community and meaning. Whose disciple are you?
Joe delves into Isaiah 35: 1-4 to talk about flourishing in hard places. He takes apart a poem that foreshadows Jesus's arrival. It's real setting was of a land that was essentially fruitful, if only water were available. Are you feeling parched? Do you see only desert? Jesus is our living water - jump in, stay in and see life differently!
This week, Joe looks at John 3:1-13 to see what we can learn from the encounter between Nicodemus and Jesus.
Joe continues our summer series by examining Mary's encounter with Jesus from John 12:1-8
This week, Maf looks at what we can learn from Jesus' encounter with a diminutive tree-climbing chap...
Jon continues our series entitled 'Encounters with Jesus', this week looking at the centurion from Luke 7:1-10, and discovering what we can learn from this encounter about faith.
Joe begins a new series for the summer, entitled 'Encounters with Jesus', starting with one of Peter's famous encounters.
Ritesh Patelia concludes our series from the book of James by looking at what it truly means to have Patience & Trust.
Mike English continues our series on 'Living like Jesus', by looking at what James 4:11-17 has to say about having Jesus on the throne of our lives.
Joe continues our series from the book of James, looking at what it means to have true wisdom.
Maf looks at the spirit with which we give. He takes us back to his first wage and the choices he had. He goes further back to the widow with her two coins and the choices she made. He also looks's at the practice of tithing (giving 10%) and concludes it is not how much we give but how we giive that matters. God loves a cheerful giver - let him make you one - first we need to receive.
Joe takes us forward in our mini-series looking at giving - how to adopt a mindset of abundance amidst a society beset with anxiety and fearful of scarcity (e.g. toilet rolls). He reflects on recent realities of snapped flower heads (his locally) and drowned animals (in Ukraine) and what Jesus meant by linking together the "build bigger barns" and "consider the lilies" stories. He goes on to encourage us to: see your wealth, set your limits, test the theory, tune into grace, see what others do, commit to give, budget for hospitality, give more than money, reflect at connect, model generosity at home, be willing to be radical, and, of course, begin with Jesus(!).
Joe intros a mini-series on generosity. Creation abounds with God's generosity but, lacking trust, we have a tendency to see scarcity and selfishly accumulate. Joe invites us to reframe our thinking and shows how Jesus put the poor at the centre of his ministry. Happiness and generosity are interlinked so think afresh on opportunities you have to give of yourself, your time and your attention as well as your money.
Jon uses Winston Churchill's and Spiderman's phrase "with great power comes great responsibility" to ease us into today's passage. Words can uplift or wound. He takes apart several of James's parallels recognising how "spreading like wildfire" is yet more relevant in today's society given the proliferation of social media - "be quick to listen and slow to type". Reflect on what you say but don't be silent - words heal as well as harm.
Joe begins today's session by asking those physically present to ask their neighbours for opinions - their favourite food, music, day of the week and... church members(!). James focused on favouritism so Joe does too - all lives matter and are to be framed not by status but by love. Whilst discrimintation may have been more evident in James's time it is still a challenge to us, now - look to see each person as Jesus does.
"Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry"; Joe invites us to reflect on our abilities to live out this phrase. "How long is your nose?" He also asks; the hot-nosed are short-tempered per the idiom of the time. James's teachings are as relevant to today's audience as to his listeners then. Tune in and work out how they apply to you.
Joe starts a new sermon series for becoming like Jesus. He uses the launch of SpaceX's biggest rocket to date - ts rapid, unscheduled disassembly and the whoops and hollers this triggered - as a way to see success in apparent failure; pure joy from difficult circumstances. Maturity, completeness, wholeness - this is what suffering builds and we can find sustenance going through it - look for community, persevere and keep your eyes on the prize.
Hannah zooms in on Jesus's vulnerability and fragility in the garden of Gethsemane - being honest about his fear and resolute in his commitment to honour God's will. She contrasts Jesus attitude with the shortcomings of the disciples - falling asleep when called to pray, fighting when that's not needed and denying Jesus when challenged. Hannah cites modern experiences of hope shared and encourages us to take comfort in the bounceback of the disciples. God accepts us as we are - rest in him and hold on tight(!).
Joe starts our stretched-out look at holy week - from palm sunday to easter sunday. Though greeted with joy on palm sunday Jesus wept over Jerusalem knowing what was to come. From tears and cheers he turned to taking out his anger, not on the Romans, but upon those in the temple. Joe looks at how our modern connections with the wider world - e.g. doom scrolling on phones - means we may not have the same opportunity to respond to injustice and risk, if we do not look-up, missing opportunities to intervene locally. Jumping in to help our communities heal and binding-up the broken hearted is part of what we are called to do.
Joe looks at Genesis 3 and Matthew 4 - two parallel stories of temptation; to choose to redefine good and evil/right and wrong or to trust God and his boundaries. Eve and Adam go one way, Jesus the other. Rather than listening to one's own thoughts Jesus resists temptation with words from scripture - God's revealed truth - respecting its authority. Jesus didn't come with an army and he didn't issue parking tickets - he let people exercise their free wills whilst appealing to them to listen to scripture. Joe encourages us to do likewise.
Debs encourages us to practice the holy habit of sabbath keeping - recognising that God us in charge and we are to orientate our lives around him and rest, reflect and delight in him on the seventh day. She chats through practical examples of how to make this happen - including restraining our phone use - finding time to be thankful for we are, who God is and for all we have been given.
Dan dips into a tale of hospitality and inclusivity. Feet washing was an everyday and intimate service to welcome guests. Jesus welcomed the service of a woman who others thought it improper to associate with. He recognised her dignity and value and used Simon Peter's "gotcha" challenge to open his eyes to the need to treat outsiders as equals. Dan similarly encourages us to look out for opportunities to welcome others we may not normally associate with into the flow of our daily lives - it may be as simple as sharing a smile.
Joe highlights that loneliness is called out right at the start of the bible, Genesis 2, as "not good". He goes on to look at how Jesus sowed community into the fabric of his day; a necessary and messy business. "Come follow me, along with these others" - an invitation to share. Community is not just connectedness nor chemistry but rather vulnerability and accountability enable us to meld and grow together.
Joe highlights that "pausing" machines stop them, "pausing" humans starts reflection. As 2023 gets going Joe invites us to reflect on our intent to be "with Jesus, like Jesus, for everyone".Silence and solitude supported Jesus' ministry - so it should feature in our lives. In our age of distraction Joe talks about how to decompress and listen to God's quiet voice cutting through 24/7 noise. Good resolutions for the new year.
Richard imagines restarting 2+ years ago pre-crises and points out that problems are inevitable - but who do we look to for help? Well, that depends on what we think the problem is. At the end of the church year Richard explains 3 things: we need an inside out solution - dealing with the heart of the human problem... us; we need to recognise our need to be rescued; and, the full stop at the end of life is just a comma before the life of the world to come - let's live out our remaining years here accordingly.
Joe starts our advent countdown with Abraham's story and the hinge point of Genesis 12. Genesis 1-11 tells of a good world gone bad. Genesis 12 (to Revelation) tells the story of redemption and blessing. Blessing starts with noticing someone, then speaking well of them (affirmation) and finally giving - off yourself - for them (sacrifice). Joe uses this year's John Lewis Christmas ad to illustrate this deep truth - we are invited to bless.
Joe remembers the first Christian martyr, Stephen, as a source of inspiration. He takes us back to Jesus' circles of intended growth "Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, ends of the Earth" and zips through a recap of the story of the gathered - empowered by the Spirit - and their astonishing progress. Stephen echoes Jesus in his death and appeal for mercy on those throwing hatred and rocks; the early church mourned, faced up to the suffering and - though scattered - pushed on together.
Rachel Bedford from St Stephens Church, talks about the wisdom of Saint Stephen - he was full of grace and power and also experienced the ridicule, insult and martyrdom of Jesus. She shares stories from her own recent experiences to help us recognise the importance of togetherness, curiosity and commitment to enable us to be with Jesus, like Jesus and for everyone.
Joe takes us back to the killing of George Floyd to illustrate our societal recognition of the need to change. He then considers what we can learn from how the early church dealt with issues of discrimination using this passage from Acts 6. An issue was raised, the disciples noticed, they acted like allies and took action. We should similarly look to unlock growth in our own context.
Dan looks at how people in the bible (the apostles, Moses, Elijah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, John the baptist, the magii, Zacchaeus, the disciples, Saul) were called to be changed and to be change. He looks forward to more recent heroes of the faith and encourages us to similarly embrace kindness, forgiveness, humility as easy on ramps for us to do likewise. He asks us too not to be fearful of failure because being changed is an ongoing process for us all and opportunities to be change will keep coming - worthy of reflection this week.
Joe intros a "dropping down dead" episode in Acts with paintings of Churchill and Cromwell and the subjects' respective responses of "where's the respect?" and "where are the warts?". The gospel is either all or nothing - so Luke shares an unvarnished retelling of what actually happened with Ananias and Sapphira; Joe invites us to be similarly honest with how we treat God and one another as we journey together - take this seriously.
Joe completes the vision series fed from John 15 (for now) with a call to steadfastness. Our pattern to follow is a person - Jesus - what would he do if he were living my life now? We should expect to be pruned and cleaned and to be better for it - in time bearing much fruit. All Souls is doing discipleship together - join in - we're for everyone.
"Anchor and role model" was how the Queen described Jesus. Joe looks back on his own life to ask: if I'm not like Jesus now is transformation possible? His realisation is that "yes" but it is also inevitable that we will constantly be formed by what is around us. What we believe matters. Our habits shape who we become - even something us innocent as drinking tea(!). Parents know well that those who surround us - so it's relationship too and then it's also our environment; home shapes us. Look at your own life and what is shaping you today.
Joe starts by reflecting on the life of the Queen and her living with Jesus, like Jesus and for Jesus.
The only guidance Jesus gives in today's passage is "remain" with me. Proximity is key. Don't go your own way - like Adam and Eve - but be "in his dust". This is where the Holy Spirit comes in - making God accessible everywhere. "Habit eats will power for breakfast" so we need to practice his presence through disciplines (silence, solitude, prayer, fasting, meditation, rest, simplicity, walking, community, etc.)... do less to be more - make room for God and tune in for more next week.
Introducing this 4-week series Joe asks us to consider the moon's relationship to the earth, our relationship to God (here and now), a Jewish rabbi's relationship to his disciples (there and then) and Jesus's relationship to his apprentices (always and everywhere). Are we becoming apprentices - being with him, learning from him and doing what he does - or remaining observers?
Joe starts this Summer series with a reminder of our imperfections and the opportunities we have to press the reset button and try again. Today's passage is a reset for Simon Peter, after his thrice denial, with the simple and deep encouragement to "follow me". Joe encourages us to similarly reflect and restart.
Joe recaps the series so far, lays out post Summer intentions and revisits what it means to be Jesus in our today. What's the point of a one-off act if it doesn't change the big picture? Joe looks at gun crime in the US - including this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9-IYiQjWD4 - to see one radical response to a familiar challenge. He then recalls a "Bridge of Spies" type swap of grandparents with grandchildren during early Covid times as another "foretaste of the future" example. "Now but not yet" is a hard but necessary place for us be and live prophetically.
Joe shares two tales from his week (involving a toffee latte and a hit-and-run incident) to relate to Peter's encounter with a lame man and a consequent crowd. After a quick recap of the "Gathered" series so far Joe highlights how Peter - once fearful of a mob - seized an opportunity to point people, given cause to pause by an unexpected happening, to Jesus. Would we do likewise?
Rachel goes back to questions in Genesis to consider our relationships with God and each other and mentions how in Exodus answers were encapsulated in the 10 commandments. She then zips us forward to Acts 2 and the power at Pentecost - when Jesus's vine of relationships accelerated outwards into a new community of believers - reflecting God's heart for humanity. That was then, this is now - what does it mean to be with one another, gathered and sent out today?
Joe continues the series with part 3 of 'Gathered' - looking at what lessons we can learn from the early church in thebook of Acts.
Joe continues the series with part 2 of 'Gathered' - looking at what lessons we can learn from the early church in thebook of Acts.
Joe highlights how a multinational crowd was given a second chance 2000 years ago just as we all are today. Back then, Peter was speaking and Jesus's reality was not in question ("as you yourselves know") and his healing reputation was well established but his identity had been largely misunderstood. Peter pointed out the error and the crowd was "cut to the heart". Christians today are reportedly seen as "hypocritical" and "narrow-minded" but it is not about us - it is all about him(!).
Richard challenges us to live out being under authority. He takes us back to the reality at the end of Matthew's gospel when some worshipped, some doubted and Jesus expected them to go and make disciples. To live our best lives we need to obey.
Joe concludes this series by recognising the struggle we all have embracing another's rule. Given all the needs in the world and your limited time to pray what makes your list? Do we race through asks, generalise or prioritise (knowing there will be gaping gaps)? From personal experience of running out of words Joe reflects on listening and acknowledging that we're joining God's plan (not vice versa). Do we walkaway or, knowing there's nowhere else to go, surrender?
Maf compares the spans of the gospels to open this week's talk and highlights that John's starts before the foundation of the world and ends with breakfast - Jesus welcoming friends. With references to Wordle, Nerdle and Her Majesty the Queen Maf unpicks symbolic meanings hidden for all of us within that final fellowship meal.
Joe points to Pete Grieg whose book we've been using as a guide. Pete points to Jesus who taught his disciples how to pray and to keep on praying. From tales of a persistent widow to a grumpy judge we are encouraged not to give-up. Joe retells Pete's story of a troublesome mosquito cloud and how its removal after prayer prompted thankfulness. Whilst we may not understand unanswered prayer inviting God's involvement in our everyday helps us appreciate his generosity.
We start with Psalm 57 then progress to Joe quoting Frankenstein's monster as we recognise prayer builds relationship. The opening line of the Lord's prayer gives us context as we orient ourselves - we need to stand in awe and rejoice that we are encouraged to treat him as "Daddy". We are God's beloved and invited to trust - to make sense of ourselves and our purpose as we recognise who we are speaking to and listening to. With reference to David in the Old Testament and those in Ukraine today, in the heart of suffering God calls us to rejoice.
Rachel recognises one's need to pause - to listen to the still, small voice that may be drowned out in the noise of rush. Whilst some may sit still (lit candle, quiet space) Rachel finds walking forces her to pause - what works for you? She goes on to recognise that prayer is as much about listening as talking, and talking starts with a "Hi! Great so see you" (labrador-like) before any list of asks. Prayer is relationship. Listen to this sermon to cause you to pause more.
In the last of the series Joe reflects on what we've learned from our study of how to live counter-culturally. Tying up loose ends he starts with Jeremiah's words of encouragement for living in exile. Then he jumps to Daniel's looking ahead to the coming kingdom and when it will be... Then we move to Chronicles and its span from Adam to the close of the Old Testament. And back, to Daniel in the lions' den and Cyrus's heart that is moved thanks to Daniel's faithfulness. We're likewise called to live like foreigners to bless those around us.
Jon starts with a reminder that many of our day-to-day phrases originated in the bible. He goes on to unpack Daniel chapter 5 and summarises with three "P's" - priorities, perseverance and pride. Priorities - the party thrown whilst Belshazzar's state was at war and his drunken abuse of holy items. Do we (dis)respect God's word? (It's not just another book(!).) Perseverance - Daniel was remembered for his faith (will we be for ours?). Pride - Nebuchadnezzar's fall was disregarded by Belshazzar (are we mindful of our dependencies and grateful for our gifts?).
Dan starts this session with a laser-enabled comparison of the dimensions of the church to a breath-taking gold idol. The idol represented an idea that people were obliged to bow down to - in some ways not unlike the idea of apartheid that used to separate lives in South Africa. Dan reflects on the life of one who wouldn't bow down to that idea - Desmont Tutu - and how he forced the people of his time to face up to the injustice around them. What can we do likewise?
Joe starts with a cocktail of clips and a shoe story to launch us into this week's examination of the exploits of the Hebrew 4. Daniel shares the interpretation of a dream with the king predicting downfall and receives a humble response. Joe highlights the humility of Daniel, his wisdom and tact in challenging circumstances and how he held to the truth throughout. Joe encourages us to similarly lead from wherever we are.
Joe starts this session with a tale from Uganda - fetching and feasting on beef alongside daily maize, rice and beans. Way before Veganuary became fashionable Daniel asked for simple food... and the four young men not only looked better nourished as a result but they went on to demonstrate expertise and understanding beyond their peers. How do we live similarly faithfully in our cultural landscape? Do we separate and disengage or stay and mix? If we stay do we blend in or stand out? Joe considers...
Joe starts a new series with his own experiences of settling in (tidal) west south west London (UK). He then opens up the experiences of Daniel and his friends and how they dealt with the strategies (isolation, inculturation, integration, identification) of their captors. What did it take to live fruitfully and faithfully in circumstances beyond one's control?
Hannah addresses our struggling souls and encourages us to listen for God's breath in the darkness. She takes us back to the 16th century and Brother Juan's "Dark night of the soul" and his commitment to love and worship God, despite one's circumstances. We are being guided by God even in times of his apparent absence. Hannah, speaking from her own experiences, gives practical advice about how to deal with crises.
Joe starts with a selection of unpopular opinions (e.g. "Monday is the best day of the week")to position today's talk. He then unpacks Paul's letter to the Galatian church to help them (and us) understand what freedom from the law is for - not to indulge but to serve. Applying willpower tries to break us out of negative sin cycles but, quoting from the book of this series, "habits eat willpower for breakfast". Let's learn to live in step with the Holy Spirit and be free to be the people we're meant to be.
On Remembrance Sunday Rachel reminds us that as we live in the troubles of "now" and "not yet" there will be a time when our joy is complete. Our God, outside of history, sees the lives we go through often crying out "Why Lord?". Drawing from the book of Ecclesiastes she finds God makes everything beautiful in its time - our longing, our hope will be fulfilled.
Dan Bowring takes a look at what it means for the soul to need blessing, and challenges us to find ways to bless others in our daily lives.
Beginning with his own university experiences of cramming and fatigue Joe delves into the soul's need for rest. All of us are made in the image of God and that includes furthering his creation in our culture - go to work! - and also includes the balance of rest; it is good, purposeful and to be enjoyed.
Dan Bowring brings us the next instalment of our series on Soul Keeping, as he looks at what it means for us to have a centre to our soul.
Joe highlights the neediness of the soul and how only God's grace can fulfil its insatiable appetite. There are so many inappropriate ways to feed your soul - think of the idols in your own life that clamour for your attention. Joe invites us to appreciate that it's not what you do but who you become that matters. He encourages us to arrange our days to build contentment, joy and confidence in our relationships with God. Specifics to come as we go through the series...
In the first of a new series, Joe starts with a story, "the keeper of the stream", as we reset our lives for a post(?)-pandemic world. "It's not what you do; it's who you become that matters" he quotes from the book of the series title. Your soul can be compared to your operating system, in computing terms. Joe encourages us to connect with this deep topic as he lays the foundations for an exciting journey of soul-discovery over the coming weeks...
Joe talks dogs, cats and big risks as he draws from the story of Shadrach, Meschach and Abednego and their fiery furnance deliverance. He exhorts us to recognise God's faithfulness to us (endless) as we try to strengthen our (flaky) faithfulness to him. Nothing is able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus - so believe and belong and be faithful to him.
Maf expounds Matt 11: 25-30 and highlights the hatred in the online world - harsh words on social media widening wounds. He links climate change and wildfires in the physical world to cultural change and inappropriate behaviour on the internet. Fuelling the flames of outburst and outrage online is the very opposite of gentleness; rather we are encouraged to look to and learn from Jesus - who invites us to lay down our burdens of anger, bitterness and retribution and put on his light yoke - the full garland of the 9 fruits.
Dan starts with pet peeves to intro the fruit of patience - the ability to endure without complaint. In a culture of convenience with an expectation of instantaneous gratification there is a risk of assumed entitlement. Mere toilet paper was the "must have" of not so long ago and some people's disregard for others then showed our ugly side. We are encouraged to each reflect on our own situations and observe how we behave - how many months' supply did you buy?
We can search for peace in our moment of need, but this is also ‘fruit’ we can cultivate intentionally over time. Key aspects are ‘Getting to know God and understanding the bigger picture’ (e.g. through Scripture) and ‘facing up to our anxieties and being honest about our coping mechanisms’ (e.g - through journalling or chatting it over with a friend). Ultimately, looking for peace in the wrong places will let us down.
Joe talks joy. Not momentary euphoria from fulfilled desires but the deep, bubbling well spring of certainty that comes from knowing what has been accomplished on the cross and the kingdom that is coming. The disciples' joy defied their circumstances - some suffering martydom - and this fruit of the spirit is grown in us, often through suffering, as we do life God's way.
In the first of a new sermon series Rachel talks about knowing the love of God ourselves and becoming more like our heavenly father as we lavishly demonstrate love for others - this is what will make the world sit up and look.
We finish our series looking at Jesus priorities in the early part of his ministry as we consider what unites us as his people.
Joe looks at the invitation in this passage to look back to help you look forward. What would be your dream invitation? For those on the road to Emmaus they were encouraged to recount what had happened, reflect on what it meant and realise who walked alongside them and the hope that was theirs. Jesus invites us to do the same and Joe gives practical "how to" guidance.
Joe starts with snowdays to ease us into today's reflections on the rhythm of work/life God intended - what is "sabbath" all about? Jesus starts with the heart; the religious leaders love laws - conflict is inevitable. Jesus poses the "what's lawful?" question and suggests "stretch" to challenge the moral basis for authority. Jesus was angry and deeply distressed by the (lack of) response. Would we be? What are our new rhythms and how do we divvy up our weeks? Joe shares his examples...
Joe starts with the topic of a "ruthless elimination of hurry" as cause to pause - he takes us back to the "emergency stop" start of the pandemic and how we've been jolted to reflect on our priorities. What can we learn from the lifestyle of Jesus? Respect rest. Sleep enough. Reset your rhythms.
Maf starts by talking about crutches - we all need Jesus but not as an "add on" for our own lives but for new lives led by him. He pivots using an unleaded petrol parallel to convey the meaning of the risk associated with new wine and old wine skins - a warning for us to realise that if we're Christians we're not in charge any more.
Joe looks at how contagious diseases with no known cure are handled - 2,000 years ago as well as today. Joe zooms in on the affront to God of a leper's sickness and how Jesus turns around the situation - rather than being made unclean by touching another he cleanses the person before him. Know there is hope but we need to ask and listen.
Joe pulls us into the value of silence and solitude to connect with God. He considers this "blink and you've missed it" story in Mark and how Jesus deals with others' expectations - rather than being led by them he pivots based on God's leading.
So, what happens in the wilderness? Jesus intentionally creates margin away from distractions to understand God's "what's next". For us, we need to deal with the "social dilemma" of having "infinity in our pocket" - our mobile phones, designed to addict us, crowding out our solitude; we need to make margin too...
Joe takes us back to the basics in Mark 1 - who is Jesus? Who are we? What are we called to do today? We are not what we do, what we have or what others think of us - rather our identity is defined by our relationship to God. Before we return to our new normals we will do well to re-centre ourselves as Christians as being first and foremost God's children.
In his first sermon as vicar of All Souls, Joe (Reverend Sellers) goes to the first verse of Mark and looks at who Jesus is and how we (Christians) are now known by his name - followers of Christ. From pondering the past, present and future impact of the pandemic to fundamental questions of identity to a memorable key ring parallel Joe reminds us of whose we are once we've accepted Jesus for who he is.
Tim looks back on the stories we have heard during this series and challenges us, as Jesus challenged his listeners, to make links between the stories and our experiences - who do we relate to? What is there for us to learn? He "just adds water" to the final tale to compare the experiences of two builders - one wise, one foolish - looking at our foundations, which are we?
Hannah unpacks the familiar tale of a wedding feast where those originally invited make their excuses whilst former outsiders suddenly find themselves honoured guests - everyone is welcome (just as they are), the downcast and diminished are honoured, and a feast (not just a morsel) awaits - we need to accept the invite, encourage others and linger longer together in his presence.
Dan takes a familiar tale and resets our understanding by explaining the historical and geological context - the land wasn't easy to read and the burdens on the farmer were many. As well as pondering what sort of soil we've been, and what seed we've seen he emphasises the message of hope and encourages those growing strongly to reflect on how we can be hope for others.
Miles relates the tale of the prodigal son, personally relating more to the argumentative, depressed and argumentative older brother than the wayward younger son. He highlights that the father went out to the older brother, absorbed his son's accusations, affirmed their relationship and promised proximity - "You are always with me". If you're also grumbling at God , don't stand outside - (re)join the kingdom party!
Jon draw us into a tale about a vineyard and ponders how we apply it to ourselves today. Did we choose where we born, when we were born, to whom we were born, with what we born? Clearly not yet so much of what we accomplish is dependent on what we have been gifted with. Jon challenges us to grasp the grace we have been given, show gratitude for it and, in turn, give!
Rachel "rings the doorbell" with prayer - unlayering the complexity by explaining how Jesus spoke about God as neighbour and father. She uses the modern parallel of egg-sharing during lockdown to highlight the "shameless audacity" in the bible story of waking a neighbour to help a friend. She then goes on to clarify that God is the never-sleeping, eager father cherishing his child not just a reluctant neighbour to be disturbed through prayer. This is how we are to approach God - knowing that he wants us to be present, not just petition, and to listen, not just ask, and to act for others, not just be filled ourselves.
Linz starts with a gutfelt reaction to the familiar good Samaritan tale - what would you do if you saw somebody battered and bleeding on the road? She references our hero's pro-activity, pity and generosity - with his time, his resources and his attention. He is an example of selflessness Jesus exhorts us to follow - attending to spiritual needs as well as physical.
Charles talks about how spectacular growth can suddenly emerge from seeming insignificance. The kingdom is God's kingdom and it grows without needing our attention - though we might feel less able to contribute during lockdown God's kingdom is growing anyway. Captain Tom's remarkable story is an example of how simply doing what we can can balloon into blessing - we are encouraged to keep eyes open for whatever opportunities arise.
Rachel prepares us for new things ahead. She separates imagination from fact and points out that faith leads to fact but is often based on fiction - what we believe not just what we know. She talks about the parable of the 99 sheep and how the shepherd rejoiced over the 1 lost sheep - a cause for celebration. "If reason changes our minds imagination changes our hearts" and such parallels help us appreciate how much we each are valued.
Maf starts with Lego and a cheeky grandson to introduce the topic of obstacles - for Nehemiah, this ranged from threats and scorn to the need to clear the ground - down before up. For us too, Maf talks about our rubble - the risks of nostalgia clouding our vision, traditions blinkering our openness to options and consumerism clogging our attention - and invites us to clean our ears, expect to be challenged and look forward to the new things God wants to do.
Tim transports us to the build stage as we take a "Grand designs" tour around the rebuild of Jerusalem's walls. The list of people in chapter 3, though a challenge to pronounce, celebrates the individuals and their respective talents and how they have been each helped "get things done" collaboratively. What talents to do you have and what role is it that you're being called to fulfil as we rebuild post pandemic?
Hannah highlights that although this is a turbulent, draining time for us all, as we come to the end there is also a great opportunity - to put life ahead of productivity, for exposed inequalities to be reduced, for creation to flourish, for communities to remain connected as we emerge from this long hibernation... She looks at how Nehemiah seized his opportunity and encourages us to similarly listen and look out for our opportunities to renew and rebuild.
Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king in title but in practice lived more like a prime minister than a servant. Dan reflects on why somebody so successful would make a 1000 mile across a desert to a city he'd never known. He shares from his own career in magic and reflects on another's $45bn giveaway to help us understand why living for others is so much more than money, prestige and power.
Karl welcomes us to 2021 with three main messages: 1. the gospel is good news for everyone, everywhere; 2. God is surprising; 3. Jesus is worth pursuing. Against a pandemic backdrop he highlights the injustices coronavirus has magnified, the lowly circumstances Jesus chose to be born into and the application of the wise men, who determined to investigate with open hearts.
Rachel invites us to contemplate how Mary and Elizabeth grew closer through their pregnancies. Mary, a young lady, when met by the angel Gabriel would have appreciated the provision of a friend to talk to as well as the promise of a son. She raced to Elizabeth to share her hope - may we do likewise through whatever means are available to us this Christmas.
Beginning with a poem Donna talks about the place of waiting and how through reflection we appreciate more what we need and what we've received - after this most unusual of years embrace the waiting this advent.
Donna talks about her own experiences of worship - from private, living room experiences to the much-missed mass participation of Summer festivals. She challenges us to think about our intentions (to honour another), our attitude (reverent not self-righteous) and our abandon (whole-hearted not half-hearted) and to look back at how Moses was so transformed through worship that his face literally shone.
On "stir-up Sunday" Maf uses three parallels - a Christmas pudding being prepared, a "Pursuit of happiness" app and the Hokey Cokey - to cause us to question whether we are going along with the individualistic "pursuit of happiness" our culture encourages or, with transformed minds, have switched to the team game "Pursuit of holiness", as intended.
Helen takes an eco theme today starting with a local perspective from a foggy Bushy Park and tales of Francisco of Assisi. St Francis's life personified a trust in God, a care for creation and a sense of joy derived from nature. We are stepped through the rich reality of his life guided by God and how we are to recognise our role includes restoring and celebrating creation.
On Remembrance Sunday, as we wade through another season of limited movement, Donna invites us to compare how little our own sacrifice of freedom is relative to that of those who have gone before us, and to take heart from the abundance of generosity we see as communities pull together and do what they can to help each other.
Jon challenges us to engage our entire being as we ascribe value through our acts of individual worship. He begins with a story of a precious stone and how it is treated differently once its value is realised. Similarly he encourages us to reflect on the true value of our relationship with God and with each other. As we head into another period of physical separation Jon highlights what unites us and, in practical terms, how to recognise and revere the high beauty of God.
Donna starts with an adoration of artichokes(!) to ease us into the raw topic of stripping back and its necessity for worship. Isaiah's experience - as he realised his own uncleanliness - causes us to pause and reflect on how grubby we really are. Jesus knew us when he was on earth and still wanted to touch and be near to us - he continues to beckon us to be open and honest as we worship, in the knowledge that our guilt is taken away and our sin atoned for.
Donna reorientates us on the enormity of God and how he rejoices over us as we, with all our passion, are sometimes most vocal when we are silent. She prompts us to recognise God's constant presence and our opportunity to worship with and without words, and through our thoughts and attitudes and actions - as exemplified by the woman breaking perfume over Jesus in adoration.
Rachel connects her own sporting endeavours with Paul's encouragement to persevere. "How is Paul able to be unstoppable despite all the hardhships?", she asks and goes on to examine our common task and give tips for keeping on track - learning how to be humble, know our worth and find focus in Jesus.
Donna emphasises obedience and trust as two key themes from this passage. She highlights the regular reassurance God gives (not always an angel(!)) and the halo of blessing and "encouragement to trust" that others in our circles receive, that helps them in turn to also believe, as we persevere together.
Hannah talks about giving up. As many of us "hit the wall" after 6 months since lockdown began she compares Paul's experiences with the Corinthians and his "keep going" encouragement from God. In our anxiety, fear, frustration and uncertainty she highlights the practical steps that Paul undertook - building friendships, working, reasoning with others - and encourages us also to pause, breathe and remember we're in this together.
Donna sums up the last 6 months as "loss" (of loved ones, of direction, of freedoms) and "gain" (identifying with those around us and demonstrating love for our community in practical ways). She considers the "what could of/should of/would of" what ifs that we all ponder from time-to-time which risk dragging us down... But, using Paul and Silas and the "get out of jail card" they didn't play as inspiration, she talks about turning to prayer and praise to refocus our thinking, and recognise his work around us.
Bishop Graham uses the book of Jude to remind us to "build ourselves up" as the Covid wilderness stretches ahead. He draws out 4 themes - seeding prayer in the rhythm of daily life, keeping in the love of God, looking forward to our inevitable ends and comforting others - and encourages us to keep connecting in new as well as old ways with our communities.
Donna relates ancient (Paul) and modern (Shane) tales of conversion when people looked to Jesus to turn their lives around. All Christians have a story - whether a dramatic moment or dawning realisation - that makes them unstoppable in their determination to be led and to follow.
On her last Sunday at All Souls Fi reflects on her own transformation from dissatisfied atheism to God-connected to geared up to go. She looks back on how Barnabas and Paul recognised that if Christianity isn't for everyone it isn't for anyone. They left their "bubble" and went overseas to share their experiences and our good news.
Dan talks about 'ians and the identity the first Christians developed for being followers of Christ - regardless of their varied backgrounds. Having a church welcome Gentiles as well as Jews was radical in its time - diversity and inclusion from the get go - as Jesus modelled throughout his life on earth. Whether kings from distant lands or local shepherds, a thief on a cross or a Samaritan women, tax collectors or prostitutes, Romans or lepers - he reached out and touched all and expects us to do likewise.
Tim uses a clever ad casting a boy on a sandy beach as a Roman chariot racer to remind us of our ability to imagine ourselves back in time. He ponders what the experience of early Christians was and is still taken aback by their confidence and conviction once filled with the Holy Spirit to fulfill their mission - our time to do likewise.
Starting with 27 tornadoes Donna questions how we pivot toward a new normal in the context of a mid-pandemic world. Church for us is going to be a rediscovery of what it means to be a powerful, purposeful presence in our community. The building might still be closed but the church moves on, in the same way the disciples took Jesus's message forward after his ascension - through scripture, fellowship, breaking bread and prayer.
Rachel reflects on how God helps us turn from sorrow to lament to hope just by turning to him rather than away. God is not scared by our emotions and welcomes our honesty - Rachel reminds us of how we respond to angry children and how much more ready God is to scoop us into his arms when we have similarly vented our frustrations.
Donna questions why we hide things from God. She shares from her own life a tale of how authenticity with avocado helped pivot her relationship with her godparents. She also reflects on how Job's searing honesty before God is an expression of the relationship depth he'd established - contrary to external appearances.
Tim uses a comedian's imaginary visit to a fortune teller last year to open this sermon. He speaks of the upheaval that coronavirus has wrought on our society and how lament is an appropriate response (as well as humour) to our changed circumstances. He invites us to open up, to others and to God, with our raw emotions, questions and unpolished prayers; reminding us of the bible's flow - creation, fall, redemption, restoration - all will yet be well.
Jamie looks forward to a time when there is nothing we can do for Jesus other than acknowledge he is Lord. But for now, we have the opportunity to "act justly, love mercy, walk humbly" and demonstrate our transformation through how we act toward those we encounter day by day.
Jane contrasts the self absorption of James and John with the humility of Jesus who, on his way to the cross, was not to be distracted by the adoring crown but did hear the cry of Bartimaeus, who boldly asked for what he needed and having received, followed.
Donna relates her own experiences of prison ministry and considers when mercy is just. Whilst some cry "Where is God?" she shows how simply being with each other is such a positive, purposeful expression of hope.
Donna begins with a family memory of a familiar meeting place under the clock at Charing Cross - a safe place to return to when lost. With an uncertain future as we emerge from a normality stripped by a virus to an economy shattered by disruption and a society on edge with racial tension she asks us to reflect on the communion table Jesus metaphorically made from the cross - a place where grace is abundant and love abounds and where Christians know we belong.
Bishop Graham reminds us that Trinity Sunday, after Christmas, Easter, Ascension and Pentecost, is when we remember that God is with us through his Spirit - making Jesus near. In a time of physical isolation, when we are still largely confined to our homes, and the peristent separation that lingers in so much of society, we are to look out for the Holy Spirit working among us; bringing about unity and peace.
Bishop Sarah takes us back to the tower of Babel and humanity's desire to take control. She reflects on how the division then, when people lost their ability to understand one another, was reversed at Pentecost when the disciples shared the good news and all understood. The message was taken out to the ends of the earth and she talks about how we are called to be in community with the diversity of those around us, connecting through all means available - Zoom included.
Donna considers liminal spaces - moments of transition - and invites us to reflect on how God gives gifts for us to encourage one another. With a beautiful comparison from a Bushy Park encounter she commends us to welcome the uncertainty and trust God during the gaps so that we too can exclaim "I did it!".
Donna encourages us to appreciate our times in the wilderness. She recalls her own times in physical deserts - in the Namib and Israel - and reflects on how we can appreciate such times. "Look up" and persevere, even if it feels like you're trudging through treacle, is her encouragement and recognise that such experiences can be used to shape, form, mould and direct us.
Donna encourages us to be intoxicated with the Holy Spirit; trusting in God to help us deal with the unexpected side swipes of life. Look around, listen and experience joy in these virus times - stepping out to speak with strangers and reaching out to those who we've lost touch with - taking risks and spreading hope in the lockdown.
Donna begins our new series - 'Abiding Presence', where we take a look at the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives today.
We start at the very beginning ("a very good place to start") - by exploring the role of the Holy Spirit in creation.
We all make mistakes. Sometimes our intentions are right but we don't follow through then look back and regret. Peter had such an experience denying Jesus three times. In this session Donna highlights Jesus's faithfulness. She shows how Jesus singled out Peter after his denial to reassure him he is loved and give him, three times, opportunity to state his love in return.
With references ranging from Captain Tom to doubting Thomas, Donna encourages us all to "not be afraid". Four weeks (in the UK) into lockdown she mentions the surge in Google searches for "prayer" and relates her own experience of being encouraged to "have a word with your boss" whilst out shopping in Marks & Spencer. As we battle against this unseen enemy she nudges us to look out for Jesus acting around and through us.
Donna causes us to pause on angelic visitations - they appear like lightening, are frightening and come with clear instructions (even if 'why' isn't obvious). When so many are thinking about their lives and, fearful of death, risk their thoughts being sucked in to the tomb she encourages us to look to Jesus - and recognise he is calling us by name to acknowledge in quiet confidence that he is risen - hallelujah!
Donna shares her own reflections for Holy week. With references from many budding Mary Berrys to a missionary with coke and prawn cocktail crisps she encourages us to be as trusting in God with our external circumstances as our inner spiritual lives - but don't expect predictability.
Lockdown week 2 (in the UK) and a soundtrack intro from Donna as she reflects on the tunes we each might turn to as we contemplate the long and winding road ahead. Unprecedented for this generation isn't any surprise to God so she encourages us all to reflect on God's goodness and reset our daily routines so we keep connected with him, and to get on (rather than off) social media to stay connected with others. (If you want to watch this session please visit All Souls Church, St Margarets on Facebook.)
On his last Sunday as vicar Richard reached out to 150 "locked rooms" of those listening and watching to All Souls' first livestream in a Coronavirus context.
Reflecting on 3 mountain occasions, he considers Jesus as king on the mountain and in the valley and how we each need to remember this truth in these strange times... with the opportunity to do something new with the God who comes to us wherever we are.
If you want to watch this session please visit All Souls Church, St Margarets on Facebook :-).
Richard draws up back to God's amazing grace. He reminds us how Jesus suffers with us and steps into the locked room of our fear to hug us... and send us out to do practical things to help our neighbours.
Richard gives a short talk as part of the Sunday morning all-age service at the end of Soul Journey 2020
Revd Charles Hudson - speaker for our weekend away (6-8th March 2020) in the last of his three talks.
Revd Charles Hudson - speaker for our weekend away (6-8th March 2020) in the second of his three talks.
Revd Charles Hudson - speaker for our weekend away (6-8th March 2020) in the first of his three talks.
Matt 4 1-11 The Temptation of Jesus - fully and perfectly human by All Souls Church in St Margarets near Twickenham
As we look forward to stepping into Lent Donna encourages us to reflect God's light. Calling on a breadth of examples - from NASA's photos of the earth to refugee camps in Uganda to an unexpected headstand - she motivates us to refresh, refuel and shine!
The (soon to be) venerable Richard reminds us that Jesus is our great high priest, who has sacrificed himself for us. The writer of today's passage asks "Given what God has already done, how might you respond?". Richard considers the weekly reality we all face of a "Monday morning moment" when the weight of responsibility may feel too much, and encourages us to accept and reflect on God's gift and to keep gaining strength from one another. He gives practical examples of how to encourage one another (including by "picking his sermons to bits"(!)).
Richard, on the first Sunday since the announcement of his leaving All Souls (on March 22nd) to become Archdeacon of Middlesex, speaks about change, faith and God's gift of prayer. He does this through the lens of the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6 - a prayer that reminds us that we are invited to be part of God's agenda (rather than 'enlisting Him on to ours'), that we are to bring everything to God - and that prayer is not meant to be a purely solitary activity.
Rachel breezes through the different cultural context of the Colossians and focuses on the consistent principle of being 24/7 mindful of doing all for God. She reflects on how our trivial chores can all be seen as creating order and beauty to help others... a reason to be passionate about what we do in everyday places.
Do you have a "holy place"? Somewhere the gap between us and ultimate reality seems thinner... Richard considers the moments when we are aware of the God who is all around us - in waking life and in dreams. From personal experiences (including one featuring a giant spider(!)) he helps us understand how to appreciate God's continual presence and consistency.
Richard introduces the topic of everyday faith and what persistent difference it makes. Comparing to temporary trends he talks about how being known, loved, forgiven and transformed is more than a "that's nice, dear" phase in anybody's life - rather we are blessed to be a blessing and scattered throughout the World to make a difference to those around us.
In the first sermon of the new decade Donna encourages us all to resolve to reconnect in 2020. Comparing Jesus to chocolate(!) she explains how by listening and learning, we will want more and our courage will rise as we realise the peace, purpose and joy ahead of us.
Rachel ponders this enigmatic passage and draws out its implications for us now. She explains how Jesus is all over the Old Testament and points out his presence in today's reading - highlighting his qualifications (the spirit), performance (justice) and results (security).
Nathan contends that the bible promotes healthy scepticism. With references ranging from Samwise Gamgee to Nietzsche he considers the helpfulness of hope - does it orientate our optimism or prolong a failure to grasp reality? Isaiah's vision highlights the difference between what we yearn for and what we experience and Nathan encourages us to be now what we are becoming - "walk in the light of the Lord".
Richard highlights the surprise ending to this letter and how John, were he among us today, would probably exhort us similarly. We all have our own "true north" that we orientate our life around - but is it the right one?
"Whoever tells the story defines the culture" announces Fi as she focuses on the importance of telling the right stories. She begins with Minecraft and a surge of popularity for the game following one influencer's online post. Fi explains how John wanted his readers to refind their bearings in who Jesus is and encourages us to tell the right stories through our actions and online as well as in our words day to day.
Richard ponders the worth of every individual and the circle of love at the heart of this passage. Having let this warm wave of scripture wash over us he recalls a powerful interview with a war veteran, Harry, and his recognition of the waste of life war entails. As imperfect as we may seem or feel Richard encourages us to see each other through God's eyes.
Recalling being dazed by butter choices at 3am in Tesco 20 years ago Richard unpacks the choice at the heart of this passage and its relevance to our deepest desires and longings - to be loved, known and forgiven.
Rachel considers how we are to live like children of God knowing how great is the love the Father has lavished on us. In the same way we tend to reflect our earthly parents, she encourages us to become more like our heavenly parent, as our new nature inclines us to do.
Starting with an unexpected yet memorable act of honour and service on a goose farm in the great plains of Hungaria, Richard considers how similarly bamboozling Christianity may appear to be. Following a baptism, he unpacks the gift, invitation and response at the heart of John's letter that is the opposite of many people's expectations of religion.
Richard unpicks the confusion of whether it is works (it isn't) or grace (it is) that puts us in God's family. He talks about the sufficiency of grace and examines how John challenges us to tell the truth about who we are, whose family we now belong to, through our behaviour - loving across differences.
Richard considers life, leaning ladders and the wall in this sermon on 1 John. Will the ladder bear your weight? Is it leaning against the right wall? Could you make it up every rung? He invites us to reflect on which ladder we're climbing and who is at the centre of our universe.
Bishop Graham delivers the first of a new sermon series on 1 John. Having contemplated the life that pulses through us all whilst on holiday in Portugal he shares his key reflections: true life is eternal, relational and personal - and leads to joy.
"Prayer is a mystery not a vending machine." David looks at how Hannah's faith at a time of deep anguish enabled God's purpose to be fulfilled. Despite the provocation of another household member she turned to God rather than retaliate. Hannah received peace initially and afterwards children, the firstborn of whom, Samuel, she gave back to God.
Fi introduces us to the book of Ruth likening it to an oasis in the midst of the strife of the time of judges. With references ranging from Spiderman to agape love, Psalm 23 and Liverpool F.C. Fi highlights the comfort, strength and companionship Naomi and Ruth provide each other and how God provides for them, even though at times he felt far away.
Richard considers the allegiance of two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to the God who has made them and loves them. In a simple act of integrity, goodness and civil disobedience they enabled God's purposes to be fulfilled. Richard challenges us to reflect on the choices we make and encourages "little acts of rebellion" where priorities clash so we remain true to our faith.
Rachel opens a new sermon series by introducing Sarah as "the mother of our faith". With references to Lazarus and laughter she draws out the lessons we can all learn from Sarah's experiences - is anything too hard for God?
What happens when God makes you his home? Concluding this series, Richard parallels the loss one feels when a friend leaves with the disciples "loss" of Jesus (in bodily form) and their subsequent experience of the Holy Spirit. With the Holy Spirit we, like the disciples, learn to live like him and learn to listen to him day by day.
Richard grapples with questions about healing - why does it happen, why does it happen and how then should we pray? He encourages us to be open, honest and raw with God, trusting that he is with us and will one day restore all things.
With references to colour-changing minions and Total Wipeout as well as Act 15 and Romans 13 Fi reacquaints us with this familiar passage and the contrasting views it includes of "Despicable me" led by self and the fruit-filled community that is led by the Spirit.
With reference to Rachel's companion sermon from December 2018 (https://soundcloud.com/allsoulschurch/get-connected-rom-8-15-27), the narrow streets of Seville and the scent of gravy Richard explores this familiar passage afresh. Reflecting on the slave's longing for freedom, the joy at the end of childbirth, the welcome of adoption and the first fruits of harvest he points to the real and actual taste of God's kingdom that the Holy Spirit brings us.
Richard wishes us "Happy Pentecost" and takes us right back to Genesis, Ezekiel, Joel and Jeremiah to understand the anticipation of the first disciples. Whizzing through to a most modern tendency to "externalise problems" and "internalise solutions" ("search for the hero inside yourself") he shows how God did the opposite at Pentecost, reaching out to touch each one individually, and encourages us all to long for more of God and to share.
Richard reflects on Christ's ascension. He considers the disciples expectation that Jesus would carry on after the resurrection as before.. but their thinking was too small. With referenct to Daniel 7 he encourages us to recognise and welcome God's rule over all.
Using snooker as a parallel, Revd Dr Steve Walton speaks of the Holy Spirit's effects in these passages as the "accompanying colours" alongside His "red ball" consistency. The Spirit's liberating role is elaborated with references to earlier Bible stories.
We listen to a Christmas reading "out of context" and Richard highlights how Zachariah, Mary, Elizaebeth, Simeon and Anna were empowered by the Holy Spirit to see clearly, believe wisely and act courageously - we have the opportunity to do likewise.
In the first of a new sermon series Richard introduces the work and person of the Holy Spirit. With references to Genesis ("the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters") and Spiderman ("with great power comes great responsibility") Richard explains how Jesus introduced his disciples to the Holy Spirit, exploring the depth of meaning in Jesus's "Shalom" greeting to them after his resurrection.
Rachel teaches from these two passages, highlighting just how controversial Jesus' reading of Isaiah 61 was as he showed how God chose Gentiles - a widow and a military leader - to bless and to be blessed by Israel.
Richard challenges us to see God in the ordinary. He takes us from modern comicbook superheroes to the ancient book of Isaiah and examines just how ordinary Jesus was foretold to be as well as how he would spectacularly plunge into the heart of our suffering to rescue us.
Richard compares Isaiah's words to those of a doctor and a recruitment consultant. The doctor pointing out symptoms (you're in exile(!)), providing diagnosis (you've turned your back on God(!)) and being honest (you risk losing your identity...). The recruitment consultant laying out a job description for God's servant (to bring God's hope to a broken and weary World) - a role we can't fulfil but rather pointing forward prophetically to Jesus - as subsequently recognised by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
Steve Walton looks at the servant's role from three perspectives - the author's, Jesus's and ours. Using examples from modern (waiters needing to pay more attention) to ancient (the Roman centurion who was first to recognise Jesus for who he is after his death) we are encouraged to reflect on Israel's, Christ's and our own calling to be a light to the ends of the earth.
Richard introduces a five session series on "servant songs" and considers three big questions relating to reality, judgement and hope. He sets Isaiah's message in context and explains how the prophet provides clarity and perspective - then (2,500 years ago) and now - appealing to us to live with joyful freedom within God's purposes.
Rachel considers the contentment of Paul and the secret of generosity. With reference to exercise, money and bunnies she uses Google and Amazon to uncover popular searches and solutions for happiness. She goes on to unpack how Paul's contentment stemmed from his friendship with Jesus and reminds us that our generosity should be a natural reflection of God's goodness and his gifts to us.
In this family service Richard encourages us to practically live out prayer by showing care for our World. From contemplating an orchid to writing to your MP he considers practical ways to get involved and talks about All Souls role as an eco church.
Prayers and the first few minutes of today's sermon when Richard reflects on the differences between deep joy and mere happiness.
Following Jon leading prayer according to the PRAY mnemonic, Fi encourages us not to grumble over the niggles of life but to shine like stars. She uses "Chariots of Fire" and an actual Olympic torch to lead us to reflect on how Paul faced up to the reality. He experienced sorrow and anxiety but focussed on the firm foundation for his joy - Christ and his word of life - and rejoiced in the torch bearers around him.
With reference to the D-day landings as an example of inevitable victory Richard considers "How am I to live now?". He looks to Jesus and how he humbled himself in obedience before being exalted. Though we are sure one day all will be under Jesus he challenges us to work hard at our salvation, recognising that we are not going through life alone - we are in it together with God.
Rachel considers motivations for and the meaning of church unity. With references to Pope Francis, Paul and Brexit she reflects on the challenges of unity and how Christ's servanthood provides a model for us to follow.
Richard considers why Paul was so joyful given his circumstances, concluding that his confidence in Christ helped him see reality - knowing not what the future holds, but knowing who holds the future.
In the first of a new series Richard challenges us all, as Paul did to the Philippians, to evaluate "who do you think you are?". He encourages us: - to live generously, since we belong together; - to live resiliently, since no one should expect an easy ride; and, - to live simply a godly life, aspiring for purity and blamelessness; finding joy in our identity with Christ.
Richard commentates on a live re-enactment of the miraculous crossing of the river Jordan. He reflects on God's reminders and how important it is we remember 2018 as we enter 2019. From the "gold box" ark and it's contents - a staff (leadership), a pot of manna (provision) and two tablets (rules to live by) - to stones from the Jordan to our own family photobooks he encourages us all to reflect on positives from the past as we press ahead into the new year...
In a short sermon Richard reflects on how Simeon recognised an infant in an instant as our saviour. Using Christmas imagery he talks about how we make the everyday (pine branch) special (decoration) and use candles (light) to point to Jesus as we already start thinking about the significance of Easter...
Richard explains why prayer should be treated as a gift (rather than a duty or a skill) to help us put the pieces of our lives together and join in with God "in his name". He takes us from inappropriate prayers - e.g. for an open top, racing green Aston Martin - to being regularly filled afresh with the Spirit... because we leak(!).
Richard works backwards through this passage, chewing over what it means to live a healthy Christian life amidst a YouTube generation. He exhorts us to: emulate wisely, think deliberately, pray confidently and rejoice constantly; celebrating what we know to be true.
Rachel compares wordless prayers from a heart of flesh with wordy prayers from a heart of stone. In a world where we are "bombarded by words" she encourages us to appreciate the value of a "symphony of sighs" with God sensitising us to know him as father, know there is hope and enabling us to pray with and without words.
With elaborate imagery from mingling with rugby superstars to an entitlement to enter Ronnie Scott's Richard explains how, through Jesus, we have confidence to draw near to God in prayer.
Holding both a bible and a newspaper, Richard reflects on the reality of living in a broken world and exhorts us to pray in the context of the cross. From pulling out charred remains from burning tanks and the destruction of ongoing conflicts he points us to the anticipation in the book of Revelation that every tear will be wiped away - the world to come.
Recognising that some passages in the Bible can seem "really weird", Nathan Shedd unpacks God's love of the world as our context for prayer. With a breadth of references - from Hallowe'en to Meatloaf - he encourages us all to 'gut check' our daily reality to make sure our actions and dispositions align.
Rachel Wooden looks at Genesis ch 32, and asks us to consider the things that we wrestle with God about.
Richard likens baptism to receiving a gift, a seal of belonging and a signpost to Jesus; encouraging us to recognise the family we're in and share our experiences, concerns and prayers.
Richard reflects on making stuff, feeling proud and the joy, creativity, energy and generosity in abundance in creation.
Jon Wooden takes an overview of probably the most famous prayer of all time, and suggests some things that the Lord's prayer isn't, and some things that it is.
[Get Connected]: Gen 1-3 Prayer as Response to God by All Souls Church in St Margarets near Twickenham
[Jesus Revealed]: Matt 28 16-20 The Great Commission by All Souls Church in St Margarets near Twickenham
[Jesus Revealed]: Matt 26 6-13 Jesus Anointed by All Souls Church in St Margarets near Twickenham
Mat 12:38-42 Jez looks at Jesus's claim to be the New Jonah, in the miracle of his resurrection, the scope of his mission, and the response which he demands. He invites us to respond with our intellect, our agenda, and our hearts.
Richard invites us, alongside John the Baptist, to see who Jesus is through His life-changing words, miraculous signs and message of Good News.
On Pentecost Sunday, Rachel looks at what it means for the Spirit to fill us with the love and compassion of Jesus as we go out into His Harvest Field. Note: The video referred to at the start can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kLvWZ-DG6s
Jez looks at the calling of Matthew in Mat 9:9-13, exploring how it set up to be a healing miracle. Our response to God's call, whether for the first time or as a daily decision, is part of a healing process he is performing in our lives.
Continuing our series looking at Jesus in the book of Matthew, Jon looks at the parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7) and considers what it means to not just hear Jesus's words but put them into practice.
Continuing our series in Matthew, Richard explores this extract from the 'Sermon on the Mount', exploring how a right view of all that God has done - and will do - for us enables us to live a life of satisfaction and generosity.
Matthew 1:18 - 2:18. Richard continues our series searching for the real Jesus in Matthew's gospel, examining some of the characters surrounding Jesus' birth, and how they responded to a sense of disturbance...
As we start a new series taking a fresh look at Jesus in Matthew's gospel, Richard starts where Matthew starts: with the Genealogy! In this list of the good, bad and ugly ancestry of Jesus, Richard explores how King Jesus is shown to be good news for everyone in this equally mixed world.
Jez reflects on Jesus appearing to Thomas, and examines how Jesus represents Life as it was supposed to be: no longer plastic, impotent and fragile; a Life He offers to each of us.
Richard explores how Jesus arriving in Jerusalem on a donkey means (quoting the prophecy from the Old Testament which he fulfilled) that we don't have to be afraid of our greatest enemy, death.
Jez concludes our series looking at different images the bible uses to help us understand what happened at the cross. This week we look at the image of being bought (and brought) out of slavery.
Rachel continues our series running up to Easter, looking at what Christ accomplished on the cross. This week, she looks at how he restored our relationship with God, along with that of the whole universe.
Romans 3:9-26 - Jez continues our series looking at different arenas of imagery on which the New Testament draws when talking about the cross. This week we look at 'Justification' and the arena of the lawcourts - the idea that through the cross, God vindicates us from our wrongdoing.
Hebrews 9:11-15. Jon introduces our mini-series leading up to Easter, looking at the imagery of the Cross in the bible. This week, we look at the idea of 'cleansing', and how Old Testament ideas of temple sacrifice are fulfilled in Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28: As Richard draws our 1 Thessalonians, we consider what it means to encourage one another in Faith, Hope and Love, in light of Christ's return.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Richard looks at Paul's words of sure and certain hope concerning the end of life, and how we live today in the light of eternity.
Jez explores how Paul applies all the ideas of the first half of the book to two areas of primary concern in our lives: Sex and Success.
1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13. Richard looks at Paul's claim that the Thessalonians are his 'glory and joy', and asks what those things might be for each of us.
Richard continues our series in 1 Thessalonians, looking at Paul's authenticity in Chapter 2, something which came from his complete security in the One opinion that matters.
Ben Evans continues our series from 1 Thessalonians, thinking about what it means to use our words in a Godly way.
Richard introduces our series in 1 Thessalonians, as think afresh about how we integrate our faith with every aspect of what we do.
Jez takes us into the season of advent, looking at the challenge, amidst all our fears, to wait for a God who is worth waiting for.
Richard looks at the start of 1 John, and the language of 'fellowship' (business partnership)with God and each other, into which we are invited.
Jez explores Paul's image of Christians as 'ambassadors' of Christ's reconciliation in 2 Corinthians 5, placing it in tension with his earlier imagery of being prisoners of war. We draw people to our victorious king, not through our impressive strength, but through our humble weakness.
Rachel Wooden looks at The fruit Of The Spirit in Galatians 5, exploring how it is an invitation for us, together as Christ's people, to walk in the way of His Spirit and so become like Him.
Jez continues our Identity series, looking at how being a Christian is a call back to the fullness of our created humanity, something that can provide meaning to all that we do.
Richard examines the image of Christians as 'a royal priesthood and a holy nation', from 1 Peter 2.
Richard continues our series on Christian identity, looking at Romans 8 and the idea of our being adopted as God's children.
Richard continues our series looking at different aspects of Christian identity. This week, we consider what it means to be 'filled with God's Spirit'.
Jez looks at Jesus's words about friendship in John 15 and compares it to that in the story of The Giving Tree. He argues that friendship with God is characterised by intimacy, self giving and participation with each other.
Richard introduces our autumn series looking at what it means to be in God's family. This week we look at discipleship from the calling of the fist disciples in Mark 1:16-20.
Jez considers the story of Joseph, showing how God works out his big plans through the highs and lows and mixed agendas of life, how we are included in that 'big' plan for the sake of his 'small' plan for our transformation, and how that, therefore, is what we are to strive after.
Jez sets the story of Noah in its cultural context, showing how it reveals a God who is loving, just and all powerful amidst the storms of life.
Jez looks at how, by giving up his assumptions, his agendas, and even his very life, Paul was so full of joy that he could stand, jangling his prisoner's chains, and say 'I wish you could get to be more like me'.
Richard looks at the way Paul describes the essence of the gospel in his farewell to the elders of Ephesus, drawing out the fundamental ideas of repentance towards God, and putting our faith (our 'weight') in Him.
Richard explores how Paul engages the Greek context of Athens with the gospel, showing it to again be a fulfillment of everyone's greatest longings, the place where we find true significance, and encouraging us to follow Paul in sharing this Good News with those we interact with.
Richard looks at Paul's presentation of the Good News in Pisidian Antioch, exploring how he shows that it is both news (rooted in the historical events of the life of Jesus) and good (fulfilling the deepest longings of every heart).
Jez considers the very different journey Peter and Cornelius go on as they discover in each other more of what it means to participate in God's incoming Kingdom, by His Holy Spirit.
Richard continues our series in Acts, exploring the story of 'Philip with the Ethiopian'
Richard looks at how the dramatic empowering of the Spirit brings with it a call to serve God's Kingdom in even the most mundane corners of our lives.
Jez continues our series in Acts, looking at how the Spirit commissioned the Church as the heralds of the Good News of Jesus on the day of Pentecost.
Richard reflects on Jesus's ascension in the light of stories from Viva, our South American mission partner.
Jez looks at these two stories together, where Luke continues to explore the idea of "Where your treasure is there is your heart." We consider how our handling of money expresses and shapes our heart for or against the Kingdom, and how giving everything up for God offers more joy than our money ever could.
Richard explores these two parables Jesus tells about prayer, showing how Jesus wants us to be persistent in our requests and confident in God's grace and love.
Richard takes on these tricky and often misunderstood passages, and points us to a God who invites us to express his Kingdom in the here and now, trusting that he sees all that is going on in our lives and will one day restore all things.
Richard looks at the story of Jesus in the home of Martha and Mary, and asks us whether busyness or "just-not-the-done-thing" stop us from sitting at the feet of the Rabbi.
Jez looks at how we are sent into our weeks with a message of the incoming reign of Jesus, a message which is spoken and acted, with urgency and yet humility.
Richard considers Jesus's prediction of his own suffering, alongside his 'Transfiguration', showing how he is shown to be God's Reality, God's Rescue and God's Ruler.
Jez considers arguably Jesus's most dramatic miracle - the calming of the storm. Considering the cultural context, Jez explores how the story gives us confidence of Christ's authority, his presence with us in every corner of life, and his invitation to 'be still' in faith.
Richard looks at how the story of Jesus being anointed by a 'sinful woman' impacts the way we think about and look after the created world.
Richard continues our series in Luke, examining how the 'greatness' of the centurion's faith was derived not from his own confidence but from the object of his faith - Jesus.
Richard explores the moment Peter hears Jesus call him to step out of the crowd and to join what God is doing.
As Jesus heads out on 'retreat' at the start of his ministry, Jez explores why the wilderness temptations are important, and how they help us when we go through testing times.
Jez introduces our new series in Luke, and examines how Jesus's baptism commissions him for both his kingly reign and the 'baptism' of his crucifixion.
Richard reflects on how, in a world which may seem hopeless, the gifts the kings gave to the infant Jesus remind us of the eternal hope that he brings.
Jez investigates the enigmatic Old Testament figure of the Suffering Servant (Isaiah 52-53), showing how he became central to how Jesus understood himself - the King who would suffer on behalf of his people.
Jon Wooden continues our advent series exploring Christ in the Old Testament. This week we look at Psalm 23 and John 10, considering Christ as the true Good Shepherd to whom King David pointed.
Richard looks at the story of Abraham as a foreshadowing of Christ, and a call to follow in being a blessing to the world.
Richard sets our sights towards the coming season of Advent, looking at the first indications in Scripture of the coming saviour.
Rachel Wooden considers how Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of all we have been looking at in our series on wisdom, starting to point us to the coming season of Advent.
Richard tells the story of Jesus and the Ten Lepers in Luke 17, asking us what are the blessings we need to be grateful for at this harvest time, and how we will allow God to use those blessings for others.
Jez examines how the experience of failure can enrich our faith when handled with wisdom, reminding us of what is important, who is in charge, and how God loves us unconditionally. The video shown can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/76819739
Richard continues our "Wisdom to Live By" series, looking at the topic of wisdom for work.
Richard introduces a new series looking at 'wisdom' in the Bible, looking at Proverbs 1:1-7 and asking what it means to have the 'fear of Yahweh' as the wise and solid foundation on which we build our lives.
Jez explores the idea that if we are to be good at forgiving others, we have to have looked full in the face of God's forgiveness of us. Matthew 18:21-35
Rachel Wooden takes us through the story of the wise and foolish builders in Luke 6:46-49..
Jon recounts the well-known parable of the Good Samaritan, and challenges us to hear the story as it would have been heard when Jesus spoke it...
Jez examines how our attitude to money often makes us anxious because we forget the certain goodness of the Father and the certain treasure of the Kingdom.
Matthew 6:5-13. Jez explores the model prayer taught us by Jesus, as the way to place all our simplest activities and deepest longings into the Big Story of God's Kingdom.
Following the EU referendum in the UK, Richard uses Psalm 1 to help describe a healthy Christian response...
Paul's motivations for prayer help us remember what's important: the faith, love and hope which should act as a source of all we do.
Jez looks at the idea that, in the in-betweeen-ness of waiting for our adoption as God's children, His Holy Spirit takes our groaning (for our selves, as well as with and for creation) and turns them into prayers beyond words.
Richard takes us through the coming of the Holy Spirit - the power, presence and commission of God which stays with each of us wherever we are.
Jez unpacks how the Ascension commissions the disciples - and us - to be the hands and feet of Jesus, continuing his work of bringing heaven and earth together under his kingship.
While Jesus meant our faith to be personal, he never meant it to be private. Jon takes us through the Great Commission in Matthew 28, which pushes our faith out into public mission.
Richard helps us to invite Jesus into the locked rooms of our lives, that we might sense, and become the first hint of the wholeness and peace of the world to come.
Richard takes us down the Road to Emmaus, unpacking more of what it means to come face to face with the risen Jesus.
Richard takes us on the disciples' journey of realisation that Jesus had really risen from the dead.
What does it mean to remain in Jesus? Jez reflects on this rich image of life in the resurrected Christ.
Rachel invites us to witness death being defeated, and to believe that he can do the same in each of us.
John 9: Jez explores this classic story of rising conflict between two contrasting responses to the light of Jesus.
Jon Wooden looks at the encounter that a Samaritan woman had with Jesus, and how we can experience His streams of living water today...
Richard unpacks Jesus' promises to be bread, water and light for us in the wilderness of life...
Carmen Alvarez, Viva's Director for Latin America, shares stories of Viva's work in Bolivia as they seek to improve the lives of young children caught up in desperate circumstances...
Nicodemus came to Jesus by night, but learned what it meant to live in the light. Jez Carr walks us through this encounter, in the second of our series looking at John's gospel.
Richard starts a new series looking at God's light in John's gospel. This week he helps us to uncover the transformation, testimony and "tabernacling" of the Word made flesh....
Rachel Wooden examines the life of John the Baptist, and discovers the relationship between his mission, and how God calls us to live our lives as Christians today...
Richard begins the advent season by helping us to discover what it means to live now in the light of Jesus' return...
Jez Carr examines what it means to take delight in, but also to care for, the created world that God has provided...
Bishop Graham takes Luke 9:18-26 and uses it to explain what the Christian life is all about - denying ourselves, picking up our cross and following Jesus...
Richard continues our series on Ephesians by looking at what it means to live as children of the light....
Jez examines the pivot point in Ephesians, where Paul prays that we would grasp the extent of God's love, and as a result live transformed lives.
Jon Wooden takes us through 'Paul's interruption', and tries to help shed some light on some of the mysteries contained therein...
Richard continues our series in Ephesians, looking at some of the images in chapter 2 that bring this passage into the reality of our everyday lives...
Richard continues our 'Step Forward' series by challenging us to open our eyes to see what we already have in Jesus.
Jez Carr begins our new series looking at the book of Ephesians and examines what it means to see ourselves as part of the story of God's reign
Rev Jez Carr, Curate at All Souls, preaches from 1 Samuel 24 on the relationship between David & Saul.
Jon Wooden continues our series on the Life of David, by looking at this well-known story and describing the 3 confrontations that David encountered...
What does it mean to have God enthroned in our lives? Jez Carr reflects on what Psalm 96 can teach us about God's kingship.
Where do we run to, when we need to run and hide? Richard looks at where the writer of Psalm 62 runs to....
Jon Wooden opens up Psalm 40 and examines what it means to 'wait patiently for the Lord' during difficult times.
Richard continues our series on Psalms for Everyday Life by unpacking a psalm that reminds us that we have a distant yet very present God...
Richard starts a new sermon series based on the book of Psalms. He begins with David's great psalm of confession...
Jon Wooden continues our series 'Count Me In' by looking at what it means to be Ambassadors for Christ.
Richard starts our series on 'Count Me In' by looking at what it means to be a follower of Jesus.
Richard Frank concludes the mini-series looking at Jesus' appearances after his resurrection.
Richard Frank speaks from the Feeding of the 5000 and how it gives a shape for how followers of Jesus are motivated and enabled to "be good news" in the world.
Jon Wooden, on March 15th 2015, preaches from Mark 6 on Jesus sending out the disciples with Good News.
Ali Mathew continues our series on Good News by preaching from Mark's gospel on the subject of - Good News for Failures
Richard spoke about Jesus clarity of his purpose in coming to die and rise again - and how his healings come out of that Good News and his compassion for all.
Richard continued our series from Mark's Gospel on "Good News" this week looking at how the coming of Jesus is Good News in the face of evil and suffering in the word.
L T Jeyachandran preaches on the Good News of God's Kingdom. Apologies for the sound quality in places.
Richard Frank preached on January 11th 2015 in the afternoon service from the beginning of Mark's Gospel.
Richard preaches on January 4th 2015 from Matthew's telling of the story of the Magi visiting Jesus.
November 16th 2014 - Richard speaks from the end of Luke 1 as Zechariah praises God for his fulfillment of 'our side' of the covenant.
Richard continues our series on the Convenant love of God by preaching from Isaiah 2:1-5 on how to live in a world ravaged by war, but into which God promises sure hope of a new heaven and earth.
Richard preaches on God's command to Abraham to take Isaac to sacrifice him and God's providing of a different way - and the challenge to love the 'promiser more than the promise'.
Richard preached on Sunday 21st September from the story of Abram and Sarai in Genesis 12 onwards - focusing on God's covenant-making gift that helped them live life "in the gaps between" those times he spoke to them.
Calum talks about God's promise to Noah and how this passage shows that God cares for, rescues and "covenants" with us.
Richard introduces the new sermon series, unpacking the difference between "commitment", "contract" and "covenant" in relationships.
Calum Lindsay talks about Nehemiah 4 and dealing with opposition in building life with God.
Richard continues the story of Nehemiah in Chapter 2 and explores the critical moments that we face in life how to respond.
Calum Lindsay talks about Nehemiah chapter 1 and looks at how Nehemiah was honest to God about a problem that made him sit down and weep and that he longed to be changed.
Calum Lindsay looks at the beginning of the book of Ezra and how the people of God started to rebuild the temple.
Rev Ali Mathew, Curate of St Mary's Osterley, spoke at the Women's Breakfast on Saturday 19th July 2014 on God's call on our lives.
Richard talks about COUNT ME IN, looking at Galatians 6:7-10 where Paul writes about the principle of "reaping a harvest where you sow".
Richard talks about COUNT ME IN and looks at 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 about being members of the Body of Christ.
Sermon by Richard Frank 11th May 2014 looking at Luke 18 and what it means to be generous.
Bishop Paul's sermon at the confirmation service on John 10 - when Jesus said he had come to give us life and life in all its fulness.
Sermon 9th March 2014. Richard Frank looks at Luke chapter 19 and Jesus's journey to Jerusalem
Sermon 9th February 2014 - pm. Richard Frank looks at John 11 and the attitude of Jesus to death.
Sermon 2nd February 2014 - am service. Richard Frank looks at what Jesus has to say about time.
Sermon 26th January 2014 - pm service. Richard Frank looks at what Jesus has to say about childhood.
12th January 2014 - am service. Rev Calum Lindsay preaches on what Jesus has to say about work.
5th January 2014 - pm service. First in a series of sermons on what Jesus has to say about real life.