Common Ground Church Sea Point: Recent Episodes
Common Ground Church
Weekly messages from Common Ground Church Sea Point.
We are one church, many congregations.
Whatever your thoughts about God and church, you’re welcome here! We are passionate about God and our city which is why we meet all across Cape Town. We exist to spread the good news of Jesus wider into our city and deeper into our culture.
Paul Maughan concludes our Ruth series with chapter 4. In this final instalment we see redemption completed and the genealogy of David and ultimately Jesus revealed through Boaz and Ruth. Paul explores how losing our lives is the way we truly find them, how God makes a way, and how ordinary people can see the kingdom come in extraordinary ways.
Jessica Carolissen continues week 4 of our Ruth series, exploring Ruth 3:1–18 and The Redeemer’s Promise. Naomi sets a bold plan in motion, Ruth responds with risky obedience, and Boaz reveals the redeemer’s response. Though Ruth does not yet have the wedding, land, or heir, she is upheld by Boaz’s word, provision, and character. This points us to Jesus, our greater Redeemer, who fulfils God’s radical plan, bears the cost of redemption, and secures our eternal hope.
Sheldon Moultrie continues week 3 of our Ruth series, unpacking Ruth 2:1-23. We follow Ruth as she steps into the unknown, meets the generous Boaz, and sees God’s kindness and providence at work. This encounter brings provision for the present and hope for the future, pointing us to the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
Cam Venter continues week 2 of our Ruth series with a message from Ruth 1:15–22. As Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem, we are encouraged to see suffering honestly, recognise God’s hand in it, and find the hope that carries us through.
- Paul Maughan from Common Ground Church Sea Point and Iain Kruger from Common Ground Church Rondebosch wrap up our God and Sex series with a special bonus conversation. Together they reflect on key themes from the series, tackle some tough questions, and explore how following Jesus shapes our sexuality and identity today.
Lee-Ann Maughan opens our new series on Ruth with a message from Ruth 1:1-18. We see how God is sovereign over every detail, how He works through ordinary people, and how even suffering can draw us back to Him. The story of Ruth points us to redemption, community, and the fullness we receive in Christ.
Iain Kruger from Common Ground Rondebosch closes our God & Sex series by drawing on Jesus words in John 14:6. He explores what it means to follow Jesus in our sexuality and how the gospel brings power and healing as we come to the Father.
Paul Maughan continues our God & Sex series in week 5, exploring the topics of same sex attraction and transgenderism. Jesus held both conviction, affirming marriage as between male and female, and compassion, shown in his encounters with the woman caught in adultery and the woman at the well. This message invites us to hold both conviction and compassion as we follow him.
Paul Maughan continues our God & Sex series with week 4, focusing on singleness. Together we wrestle with the cultural stories around singleness and the pressures they bring, and then turn to the hopeful vision Jesus and Paul give us in Scripture. The message invites us to see singleness not as lack, but as a gift to be embraced in Christ and within the life of the church.
Paul Maughan continues our God & Sex series with a message on marriage, exploring the difference between covenant and contract. This talk invites you to reflect and respond as you consider God’s design for marriage.
In this special Women's Evening recording, four women from our community share powerful personal stories that reveal four unique reasons to pray. Rooted in real life and centred on God's presence, this evening includes time for worship and reflection, reminding us that prayer is more than a habit – it's an ongoing conversation with our Father. Whether prayer feels familiar or new, this is an invitation to be encouraged and inspired.
Steph continues our God & Sex series by exploring how our sexuality shapes us. Are we being formed into the image of Christ—or something else—by the choices we make? From cultural extremes of repression and indulgence, Jesus offers a better way: the redirection of desire and deep satisfaction in Him. Key scriptures include 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8 and Psalm 32:5.
This week, we began a new series titled God & Sex. In an age of sexual confusion, this series seeks to anchor us in Scripture – no confusion! In the last 70 years, the world—particularly the West—has undergone rapid change in how it understands and practices sexuality. Marriage has been redefined. Technology, pornography, delayed marriage, and shifting norms around gender and identity have transformed what was once considered common understanding. Paul began by naming the cultural chaos around sexuality and affirming that while the world shouts slogans like “love is love”, “if it feels good, go for it” and “all things are lawful”, the Bible offers a story of design, purpose, dignity, and redemption.
In our final week of the 1 John series, Stephan Pienaar unpacks 1 John 5:13–21 - a call to confident faith in confusing times. John reminds us that we have eternal life, access to God in prayer, victory over sin, and a true Saviour in Jesus. This is more than doctrine - it’s assurance that anchors us. In a world of distortion and idols, we stand firm as God’s beloved children, secure in Christ.
In this week’s message, Greg Groenmeyer takes us deep into 1 John 5:6–13, calling us to find assurance in the real Jesus - the one who came by water, blood, and is testified to by the Spirit. We explore what it means to believe in the Son of God and how this belief leads to eternal life, not just in the future but right now.
Jessica Carolissen continues our series in 1 John with a message from 1 John 5:1–5.
Faith, love, and obedience aren’t in competition—they’re all part of what it means to be born of God. In this talk, we explore how true faith not only empowers us to love and obey, but also gives us the victory to overcome the world in a way that redefines what “overcoming” really means.
Sheldon Moultrie continues our 1 John series, exploring 1 John 4:7–21 and the powerful truth that God is love. Drawing from his own experience with Jesus, John calls love the defining mark of genuine faith. When we love one another, we make the invisible God visible—his love made complete in us.
In a world full of competing voices, how can we tell what’s true? This message reminds us that we are not alone—God has given us his Spirit, and he who is in us is greater than he who is in the world.
Paul Maughan continues our 1 John series by unpacking 1 John 3:19–24. In this message, we explore how our hearts, though often weighed down by guilt or doubt, can find assurance in the truth of God’s love. Through believing in Jesus and walking in love, we move from condemnation to confidence—living in the freedom of abiding in Him.
This week, Lee-Ann continues our series in 1 John, unpacking 1 John 3:11–18. We're reminded that love is not just a feeling or a word, but a call to action. Jesus shows us what real love looks like—laying down our lives for others.
Parenting today can feel like a minefield of pressure, guilt, and comparison. But what if God has already given you everything you need?
Jessie and Jade dive into what it means to parent with purpose and peace in a culture of performance. From car park moments to kitchen-table chaos, this episode is full of real talk, Gospel hope, and encouragement for every parent feeling overwhelmed or under-qualified.
You’re not alone. You’re more equipped than you think. And there’s always hope.
Jessie chats with Jade Poole about what really counts in Next Gen ministry. Spoiler: it’s not hype, numbers, or slick programmes - it’s faithfulness to Jesus and His Word.
Whether you lead two kids or twenty, this episode will remind you that your quiet, consistent presence matters. Be encouraged: God uses ordinary faithfulness to do extraordinary things.
For every Next Gen leader who’s ever felt under-qualified — this one’s for you.
Visiting pastor Samuel Boateng brought a message from Ghana centred on Jesus’ call to abide. The aspirations of young professionals in Cape Town are impressive. But this message called us to slow down and ask: What is the most important thing in life? Jesus’ answer: Abide in me.
Greg Heasley unpacks the vital process of sanctification through Colossians 3:1–10, reminding us that the Christian life starts with what God has done—not what we must do. Rooted in the power of Jesus’ name, this message calls us to live from acceptance, not for it, and to pursue holiness as a response to the gospel, empowered by the Spirit.
Cam Venter unpacks 1 John 2:28 – 3:10, exploring the powerful hope we have as children of God. Even in the face of the world, the flesh, and the devil, we’re called to live in righteousness, grow into our true identity in Christ, and walk empowered by the Spirit, with Jesus as our eternal hope and victory.
Paul Maughan unpacks 1 John 2v18–27, where John warns about those who have walked away from the faith and denied Jesus as the Christ. But there’s deep encouragement here too: we have the anointing of the Holy Spirit, who teaches us and helps us abide in the truth. In a world of deception, we can stand firm, walk by the Spirit, and celebrate the promise of eternal life.
Paul Maughan unpacks 1 John 2:12–17, where John first offers deep assurance to believers, reminding them of their forgiveness, strength, and knowledge of God. He then contrasts lasting love for God with the fleeting allure of the world, calling us to anchor our lives in what truly endures.
In Week 4 of our 1 John Series, Steph Pienaar unpacks how true obedience flows from knowing Jesus, becoming like Him, and living out His love in every area of life.
He considers that obedience is the result of our intimacy and relationship with God - it's the pathway to a deeper experience of God's love and formation. Steph looks at the invitation to obedience and our obstacles to it. Steph highlights our tendancy to be very obedient and disciplined when it comes to other areas like physical health and fitness.
Steph contemplates the the correct order of obedience, knowing God's word, His ways and the call to kingdom participation.
Paul Maughan unpacks the power of the resurrection and what it means to live as people of hope and victory in Christ.
Andrew Conradie and Greg Nichollas from Sea Point Congregational Church reflect on the meaning of the cross and the hope we have through Jesus’ sacrifice.
In the final week of our Digital Life series, Paul Maughan unpacks how we can approach technology in a way that honours God. Anchored in 1 Corinthians 10:31, this practical message explores how to structure our digital habits to serve—not distract—from a life of worship.
In week 2 of our Digital Life series, Paul Maughan explores the call to Abide in Jesus amid a world shaped by anxiety and apathy. Anchored in Romans 12:2, we consider how transformation begins with the renewal of our minds—and how Jesus shows us a better way to live.
In the first week of our Digital Life series, Paul Maughan unpacks the battle for our attention in an age dominated by screens. Are we truly in control, or are we being shaped by what we consume? Rooted in Psalm 119:37, we’ll explore how our digital habits conform us—and what it could look like to fix our eyes on things that bring life. Plus, we introduce a community Digital Fast for April, challenging ourselves to use technology more intentionally.
In his final sermon at Common Ground Sea Point, Kyle Peters shares his heartfelt reflections before stepping out to plant Common Ground Woodstock. Drawing from Acts 20 and John 6, he encourages the church to remain anchored in God’s grace and the life-giving words of Jesus.
How do we live as God's people in a world that often feels at odds with our faith? In this week's message, Rigby Wallace challenges us to embrace our distinct calling as followers of Christ. Listen in to be encouraged and equipped to stay faithful, even when it means standing out.
In Week 3 of our 1 John series, Kyle Peters unpacks 1 John 2, reminding us that we are called to walk in the light. While we strive to persevere and turn from sin, we’re not left to despair when we fall—Jesus is our advocate. The love of God flows in our lives, calling us forward. Listen in and be encouraged!
This week, Lee-Ann Maughan unpacks 1 John 1:5-10, reminding us that God is light—completely holy, with no darkness at all. Through Jesus Christ alone, we can step out of darkness and walk in His light. This message calls us to marvel at God’s holiness and rest in the beauty of salvation that comes not by our own efforts, but through Christ’s finished work.
On Wednesday, 19th February, we gathered for ‘In Sea Point as it is in Heaven 2.0’—a powerful evening of sharing, listening, and discerning where God is leading us in biblical justice. Together, we reflected on the steps we’ve taken, the challenges ahead, and how we can take practical action in areas like homelessness, education, and employment. If you missed it, tune in as we recap the key moments and explore how we can keep seeking God’s heart for our city.
The opening verses of 1 John invite us into something life-changing—fellowship with God and with one another. In this message, Paul Maughan unpacks how true joy is found not in isolation but in shared life with Christ and His people—a beautiful link to our Defiant Joy series.
In this message, Paul Maughan unpacks the joy of being led by the Spirit of God. As Romans 8:14-17 reminds us, we are not slaves to fear but adopted as God’s children, heirs with Christ. Discover how the Spirit’s guidance brings freedom, assurance, and deep joy in our walk with God.
This week, Paul Maughan unpacks what it means to find joy in Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith. As we continue exploring joy in the Triune God, we look to Christ—the one who endured the cross for the joy set before Him.
This week, Kyle Peters reminds us that God is, above all, a Father—relational, life-giving, and full of love. Through the Spirit, we’re invited into a relationship with Him, a Father who not only loves us but enjoys us. Discover the joy of being known and loved by God.
This week, Paul Maughan kicks off the Defiant Joy series by exploring Psalm 16:11, showing that true joy is found in God’s presence. But this joy doesn’t come easily—it takes a determined effort to seek Him amidst life’s distractions. Be encouraged to draw closer to God and find the lasting joy He promises.
This week, Greg Groenmeyer dives into Psalm 34, drawing our hearts to the goodness of God. Reflecting on the invitation to "taste and see that the Lord is good" (Psalm 34:8), Greg unpacks what it means to find refuge in Him and experience His blessings. Be encouraged as we explore the richness of God's character and His unwavering care for us.
Paul Maughan unpacks Psalm 119:97–104, exploring how pursuing God leads to true wisdom. Discover how wisdom is found through humbly receiving God's Word in love (v97), obedience (v101), and delight (v103). A message to inspire a deeper walk with God and His wisdom for everyday life.
Andrew Conradie from Sea Point Congregational Church joins us on this special day with a wonderful Christmas reminder for all.
Steph Pienaar continues our Advent series, God with Us, with a powerful message from Luke 2:10. Reflecting on the angel's proclamation of 'good news of great joy,' this sermon invites us to embrace the joy and hope found in Christ's arrival. Tune in to be encouraged by the profound truth of Emmanuel—God with us!
In this powerful message from our God with Us series, Kyle Peters unpacks Hebrews 4:14-16, showing how Jesus, our great High Priest, sympathises with our struggles and meets us in our moments of need. Through His own experience of temptation, sorrow, and suffering, Jesus stands in our corner, inviting us to confidently draw near to the throne of grace. Be encouraged by the profound truth that God became man to walk with us in every season of life.
This week, Paul Maughan explores the incredible truth that God’s heart is to be with us, not just to be known. Drawing from John 1:14 and Revelation 21:3, we’re reminded that the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and that God will one day dwell with His people forever.
In this week's episode, Paul Maughan kicks off our Advent series, God With Us, diving into 1 Timothy 3:16 and Colossians 2:9. He explores incomplete views of the incarnation and reveals how its profound mystery invites us to embrace both humility and confidence.
Last Sunday, Lee-Ann Maughan shared a powerful message from Psalm 145 with this big idea: Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise!
At this time of year, when life feels overwhelming and we’re caught up in our to-do lists, it’s easy to let ourselves grow ‘big’ and God seem ‘small.’ But this Psalm reminds us to right-size our perspective—to focus on who He is and what He does.
Take some time to meditate on God’s wonderful works with us. You might just find the tasks you’re carrying feel lighter and take their rightful place. Catch the message now!
In the final part of our Biblical Justice series Jess gets us into the practicalities of how we as individuals and churches can serve those in need through relief, development and even social reform.
In this week's sermon, Greg Heasley from Covenant Grace Church guides us through Isaiah 42:1-9, helping us behold the justice of Jesus in both His ways and His works. Join us as we explore the profound contrast between God’s chosen servant and the brokenness of worldly justice. Gain fresh insight into how Jesus fulfils God’s promise of true, restorative justice and what that means for our lives today.
In week three of our Biblical Justice series, Kyle Peters explores the Christian call to justice beyond charity. Scripture reveals that serving the poor and vulnerable is more than an optional kindness—it's an essential act of justice for every believer. From Israel’s call to care for foreigners to Jesus' command to love our neighbours, the Bible shows that justice and righteousness are about living in right relationships with others. We look to the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 as a powerful example, unpacking what it means to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
Justice is at the very heart of God—compassionate, merciful, and overflowing with love for those who suffer and face injustice. In this episode, we explore the profound call to “love mercy” from Micah 6:8 and how Jesus exemplifies compassion for all. Discover what it means to embrace God's heart for justice and mercy in our own lives, and why we, too, are called to be moved by love and compassion for others.
This past Saturday, we gathered for a beautiful Women’s Breakfast, where we shared meaningful conversations and were reminded of God’s faithfulness. 🌱
Barbara Maughan shared her personal story, encouraging us to trust in God's deep care for us, even in challenging times. It was a powerful moment of connection and support for everyone present.
In the first week of our new series, Biblical Justice, Kyle Peters unpacks Micah 6 and explores God's call for us to live a life of justice, mercy, and humility. This message focuses on what it means to walk humbly with our God, setting the tone for the rest of the series. Join us as we dive deep into God's heart for justice and our role in it.
In the final week of God & Work, we explore how the church can bless others, contrasting the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11) with Acts 2 and the Spirit’s call to build a God-glorifying culture.
This week, Paul Maughan continues our God and Work series answering the questions "How do I create and cultivate culture?" "How do I treat people?" while focusing on 1 Corinthians 10v31.
This week, guest preacher, Rigby Wallace, speaks to us about a house founded on God’s scandalous grace, God’s lavish generosity and God’s wise sovereignty.
In week 5 of our God & Work series, Cam Venter focuses on the Sabbath commandment in Exodus 20:8-11.
This week, Paul Maughan focuses on "Why we build" as servant leaders who are prepared to sacrifice in our love for others. We learn from the life of Esther in particular, as she risked her life for the good of others and was put in a place of leadership "for such a time as this."
This week, Paul Maughan continues through our series, God & work, answering the question, "What to build?" while focusing on Jeremiah 29v4-9.
In week two of our God and Work Series, Paul Maughan addresses the problem, that we don’t think work has anything to do with eternity. He unpacks the eternal importance of work and how our work for the Lord will not be in vain.
This week, Paul Maughan launches our new series, God and Work, focusing on a passage from Genesis 1. He looks at what it means to be image bearers who have received the First Commission to create and cultivate culture (rather than condemn, critique, copy or consume culture).
This week, for our final Sunday in the book of Acts for the year, Kyle Peters walks us through Acts 6v54-60 looking at Stephen's situation mirroring Jesus' trial, death, and words.
This week, Kyle Peters ends Stephen's defence under the big banner of "surrender", of tapping out and submitting to God in Acts 7v37-53.
This week, Steph Pienaar continues the journey through Acts 7:17-36, the Jesus story, the gospel according to Stephen part 2.
This week we continue from last week and look closer into Acts 7v1-16 with Kyle Peters.
Join Kyle Peters this week as he walks us through Acts 6v8-15 where we start to follow Stephen as he is doing signs and wonders while meeting opposition to his faith and witness.
This week Kyle Peters takes us through Acts 6v1-7 where the church is growing and experiencing growing pains as the cultural diversity brings unintended offences, but the other problem is that if it's solved in the wrong way the church will lose the gospel.
The solution.... get people to play their parts.
On the final week of our Jonah series, Sheldon Moultrie closes off on Jonah chapter 4, focusing on how God taught Jonah about compassion and invited him to change.
On week 5 of our Jonah series, Cam Venter walks us through Jonah 3:1-10, where Jonah finally goes to Nineveh and how the love and mercy of God always wins.
This week Greg explores the themes of Grace throughout the story of Jonah. Grace is not only the action of undeserved favour towards us but also an empowering strength.
On week three of our Jonah series, Jessica unpacks how Jesus is the greater Jonah, who by being a perfect loving substitute, takes on the wrath of God on our behalf.
On week two of our Jonah series, Steph Pienaar looks at Jonah's rebellion, the reality of God's discipline, and the various responses we see in those verses.
his week, Kyle Peters explores Jonah's initial disobedience when God calls him to Nineveh, and uncovers why we often run from God's call.
This week Kyle Peters closes week 12 of Acts focusing on Acts 5v12-42 highlighting the unstoppable plan of God to see his Gospel go forth.
Next week we will take a break from Acts as we start a new journey through the book of Jonah.
This week, Cam Venter looks closely into Acts Acts 5:1-11 breaking down the danger of deception, the wrath (furious love) of God and finally the great grace of God.
This week, Steph Pienaar leads us through Chapter 4v23-37 highlighting various things that we could learn from the early church.
On week 7 of our Acts series, Paul Maughan speaks around chapter 4v1-22 with a focus on verse 13 “And they recognised that they had been with Jesus.".
On week 8 of our Acts series, Kyle Peters finishes up chapter three focusing on Jesus, the ultimate prophet and the promises and blessings he has made for us.
As we jump back into our journey through the book of Acts, Kyle Peters takes us through Acts chapter 3 centering around the name and person of Jesus.
In the final week of our "I am..." series, Paul Maughan concludes with a focus on Jesus' statement "I am the resurrection and the life." while taking a deeper look at John 11v17-27.
In week five of our "I am..." series, Paul Maughan walks us through John 10 where Jesus uses a simple picture to help us understand who he is. He says he’s like a shepherd, and we are like his sheep.
In week four of our "I am" series, Steph Pienaar takes us through John 15:1-11 where we take a deeper look at Jesus being the true vine.
This week, Kyle Peters focuses on "I am the light of the world" while taking a closer look at John 8v12-14 and 19.
This week Lee-Ann Maughan kicks off our new series, "I am" with a focus on “I am the bread of life” while unpacking John 6:48-51.
This week Paul Maughan focuses on Act 2v42-47 with a particular emphasis on “awe came upon every soul” and a community following Jesus in action.
This week Paul Maugahn walks us through Acts 2v22-41 where Peter is declaring the good news that Jesus is the King of the Kingdom.
On week four of our Acts series, Kyle Peters takes a closer look at Acts chapter 2v1-21.
This week, Kyle Peters continues our Acts series with a focus on Acts 1v12-26 relating it to how we navigate life.
In week 2 of our Acts series, Paul Maughan looks at Acts 1v6-11, Part 2 of The King and The Kingdom, with a focus on the nature of The Kingdom.
This week Paul Maughan kicks off the Acts series, introducing the book, and how it captures the beginning of Jesus' heavenly ministry, through the church, on earth.
“It is a blessed mark of growth out of spiritual infancy when we can forgo the joys which once appeared to be essential and can find our solace in him who denies them to us.” This week, Lee-Ann Maughan walks us through Psalm 131 with a focus on how we relate to God, how we want to “be God” or on the other extreme of how we “use God”.
Opening up the new year, Cam Venter took a look at Psalm 23 as a “vision of life with God” with an emphasis on His sufficiency, His closeness and His provision in our lives.
To end off our 2023 year and our Advent series, Paul Maughan focuses on Luke 2 and the birth of Jesus.
To conclude our 23-week study of Ephesians, Kyle Peters walks us through the spiritual armour of God and lands with an epilogue about a seemingly random disciple.
We enter the final part of our exploration in the book of Ephesians and today Paul Maughan talks to us about the very real notion of spiritual warfare that Christ's followers are to participate in.
To close out this penultimate miniseries in the book of Ephesians, Drew Murphy walks us through Paul's instructions to workers and bosses to see what work relationships under God’s rule should look like.
We head into the final chapter of Ephesians as Paul Maughan takes a look at the instructions to children and parents.
As we kick off our short three-week miniseries, exploring various relational aspects of life, Paul speaks to us about marriage and it’s significance as a symbol of the gospel.
We close off our “Walk this Way” miniseries as Kyle Peters reminds us to make the best use of the limited time that we have as Christ-followers.
Craig Leach continues to unpack Paul’s lifestyle commands to Christians as he explores the fact that God has rescued us from sin in order to live holy lives.
Kyle Peters speaks to us about God’s call for us to be people who’s speech, sexuality and emotions are in line with the Gospel and who God has recreated us to be.
As we continue to learn how to walk in the way of Jesus, the Apostle Paul asks us to throw off several things that hinder and hurt us and others.
Rather than being people who get lost because we don’t walk according to God’s ways, Paul calls us to walk in love, in light and as wise people.
Drew Murphy finishes up our mini-series on the church by reminding us that God wants us to grow in Christlikeness and Christian maturity, experiencing the fullness of who God has designed us to be.
This week Kyle Peters reminds us that every Christ-follower has been gifted by God to play a part in the strengthening of the church.
Today we explore the things that unite us as Christians as Paul starts to unpack the fourth chapter of Ephesians.
Paul Maughan unpacks Paul’s two-verse doxology at the end of his prayer as the Apostle explodes in abundant praise to God.
This week, Craig Leach looks into Paul’s prayer for strength and what we can learn from it for our own prayer lives.
Drew Murphy takes us into the opening verses of Ephesians chapter 3 as the Apostle Paul explores the revealed mystery of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
In the opening of our second sub-series going through Ephesians, Steph Pienaar looks at the reconciling work of Christ between differing groups of people.
In the final week of our “In Christ” miniseries, we jump into chapter two of Ephesians as Paul reminds us what we have been saved from and what we have been saved for.
As we come to the end of the first chapter of Ephesians, Kyle Peters spends time walking us through Paul’s prayers that Christ-followers like us would know the depth of our salvation and inheritance in Christ.
Guest preacher Greg Heasley continues to open our minds up to the cosmic scope of God’s plan of redemption in the first chapter of Ephesians.
In the second week of our “In Christ” miniseries, Paul Maughan takes us through the opening verses of Ephesians 1, unpacking the difference of receiving an identity from our creator can make in our lives.
Kyle Peters launches our series in Ephesians by actually exploring the origin story of the church in Ephesus and provoking us towards the things of ultimate significance.
This week, Kyle Peters begins our Advent series in preparation for the festive season taking a closer look at Mary's faith in Luke 1v26-38.
This week Paul Maughn finishes off the Afterlife series answering the question, what will Hell be like?
This week, Paul Maughan, answers the tough question, how can a good and loving God send people to Hell?
This week Kyle Peters covers part two of heaven, addressing where we as Christ believers will spend eternity and where we will go immediately once we die.
This week in Heaven Part 1, Kyle Peters takes a look at where we will spend eternity, how Christ's return will renew this cosmos and how we will live in a renewed body, renewed earth and a renewed universe.
On Saturday, the 11th of November 2023 we had a panel discussion with Nicky Haynes from Common Ground Blouberg, Anneli Lenhardt from Common Ground Rondebosch and our very own Delia Groenmeyer figuring out spiritual and church life while having babies and small kids, how to discipline and disciple your kids, family traditions that work and more.
“Knowing what happens when we die, so that we know how to live”. This week Paul Maughan kicks off our new series, introducing and setting the scene for the upcoming weeks.
‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.’ (1 Timothy 4:13)
This week, Paul Maughan focuses on the crisis in masculinity and provides clarity on God’s intent for men, which is to become like Jesus.
Paul brings to a close our 23 week journey through Ezra-Nehemiah pulling out the final lessons as well as reminding us of the themes and prophetic stirrings that led us to dive into this book together this past year.
In penultimate chapter of Nehemiah, Paul Maughan explores the notion of celebration and how integral it is to the life of faith. Christ-followers have a reason to celebrate and our joy is a key way to pass on the gospel to the next generation.
During week 11 of our exploration in Nehemiah, Cam Venter talks us through the plans to repopulate the city of Jerusalem and draws out some of the things that mark us as the community of God.
On week 10 of our Nehemiah Series, Kyle Peters walks us through Nehemiah 10 where the walls have been rebuilt and the people are making a fresh covenant to the things that God has called them to.
Paul Maughan leads us through Nehemiah 9 reminding us of God's mercy throughout history and how God will keep covenant despite our unfaithfulness.
In the final week of our God & Parenting series, Paul Maughan talks about the Way of Parenting while focusing on Ephesians 6v1-4
In the final week of the Grit. Grace. Growth. series, Steph Pienaar takes a closer look at suffering with a focus on 2 Corinthians 4 and Psalm 130.
On week two of the 'Grit. Grace. Growth.' series Kyle Peters looks at why victimhood culture is hurting us and creating inward-looking people, in turn leading to identity problems being overvalued by external factors or people and not by God.
In week 2 of God & Parenting, Lee Maughan walks us through Deuteronomy 6v4-9 with a focus on the question, 'What is the goal of parenting?'.
Kyle Peters kicks off the 'Grit. Grace. Growth.' series looking at the idea/issue of fragility, living in a world of being defined by weakness in a negative sense, and where we are less able to deal with the blows of life, except for in Christ.
Week one of our God & Parenting series, Paul Maughan kicks off in Luke 15 taking a closer look at the two stories of parenting, Cape Town style and biblically.
This week, Rigby Wallace from Common Ground, joined us and took a closer look into Colossians 1:27-28 and linked it to Hezekiah's Folly in the Old Testament.
In the final week of our series, 'Jesus: Hope for Sinners and Sufferers', Paul Maughan reminds us how we should take a moment to respond to the Good News of Christ, but also follow His example in service to our community.
This week, Paul Maughan focuses on John 11, taking a closer look at Jesus' interactions with Martha and Mary.
On week three of our Jesus: Hope for Sinners and Sufferers, Paul Maughan takes a closer look at two encounters Jesus had in John 3 & 4.
This week Kyle Peters continues our series Jesus: Hope for Sinners and Sufferers Week 2 focusing on accepting Jesus' invitation.
This week Steph Pienaar takes us through chapters 7 and 8 of Nehemiah explaining the shift of focus in building God's people and restoring community.
This week Greg Heasley from Covenant Grace Church spoke to us about the glory of Christ with a focus on John 1v1-14.
Paul Maughan continues our journey through the book of Nehemiah, this week focusing on Holy Unity & Diversity.
This week Paul Maughan kicks us off with chapter one of the book of Nehemiah as we continue through our Ezra/Nehemiah series.
This week, Lee-Ann Maughan takes us through Ezra chapters 9 and 10, reminding us of our continued need for God's grace.
This week we take a break from our Ezra/Nehemiah series as Sheldon Moultrie walks us through 1 Peter 1v3-7.
Week 8 has Steph Pienaar from our PM congregation sharing the challenges faced throughout the 8th chapter of Ezra.
“Look for yourself, and you will find in the long run only hatred, loneliness, despair, rage, ruin, and decay. But look for Christ and you will find Him, and with Him everything else thrown in.” - CS. Lewis
This week Paul Maughan leads us back into our journey through Ezra with a focus on chapter six.
For our Easter Sunday meeting we had Andrew Conradie from Sea Point Congregational Church join us and share.
"Adoption is the gracious act of God wherein He makes justified sinners His beloved children."
This week, Paul Maughan takes a look at God’s gracious judicial verdict in advance of the day of judgment.
This week, Kyle Peters kicks off our new series, Christ Crucified. We also put together a devotional book to accompany this series, don't forget to get your digital copy on our website!
Week of 5 of Ezra, Lee-Ann speaks on God's commitment to the eternal building project that is His church.
On week four, Drew Murphy takes us through Ezra 4 while discussing how opposition was faced back then and how it applies to our lives today.
This week Kyle Peters walks us through Ezra chapter three while focusing on the anatomy of a reboot.
This week, Paul Maughan discusses the particular people of the second chapter. Who are these people, why are they listed and what can we learn from them?
In the third week of our Apprentices series, Paul Maughan looks at seeking God's Kingdom practically: “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” Matthew 4v19.
This week, Paul Maughan, speaks to us about how Jesus invites us on a journey to be renewed in His image through counter-formation.
Andrew Conradie takes us through Luke 2:10-11 and Isaiah 9:6 speaking about the good news we should remember this Christmas Day.
In week two of our Advent series, Paul Maughan talks about peace while guiding us through Isaiah 9v6-7.
Cam Venter kicks off our Advent series this week by reminding us of God's great invitation while walking us through Isaiah 9v2.
This week Steph Pienaar walks us through Psalm 121, answering "where does my help come from?".
This week Paul Maughan takes us through Psalm 111 and 112 discussing the glory of God being the happiest reality in the world.
This week Lee-Ann Maughan takes us through Psalm 19 where she breaks down three major points: God's Sky Speaks, God’s Word Revives, and God Alone Redeems.
This week, Kyle Peters kicks us off with a new series, The Psalms, by taking us through Psalm 77 and what it means to lament well to the glory of God.
Paul Maughan closes the book of James with us in verses 19 - 20 surrounding walking in the truth.
This week, Kyle Peters breaks down how to be a people of prayer according to James chapter 5 verses 13 to 18.
Drew Murphy takes us through verse 12 of James chapter 5 this week, focusing on living truthful and honest Lives.
This week, Paul Maughan takes us through James 5v1-6 focusing on a message to the wealthy.
Rigby Wallace takes us through Jeremiah 29 relating to being safe and satisfied in God's sovereign will.
Our guest preacher, Greg Heasley, from an Advance partner church in P.E. takes us through Corinthians 12v1-3 as part of our incoming calls series.
Iain Kruger from Common Ground Rondebosch ends our gifts series taking us through Corinthians 13.
On week three of our Glorious GIfts series, Paul Maughan walks us through 1 Corinthians 12v12-31 where the bible speaks about being part of the body.
In week two of the Glorious Gifts series, Kyle Peters explains being stewards of God's grace through the gifts of the spirit.
Kyle Peters and Paul Maughan lead a discussion and answer some questions surrounding Spiritual Gifts.
Paul Maughan kicks off our GLorious Gifts series by taking us through 1 Corinthians 12v1-11.
This week, Drew Murphy ends our James series by looking at humility, reminding us that God is in control and sovereign.
This week Kyle Peters takes a closer look at being mindful of our own hearts and actions, recognizing in humility that God alone is the lawgiver and judge.
Lee-Ann Maughan takes us through verses seven to ten of James chapter 4 where she guides us through how to fight worldliness.
This week we start chapter 4 of James where Paul Maughan shares the ins and outs of quarrels.
Join us as Paul Maughan interviews our very own Peter Hodson about implementing practical wisdom in our finances.
This week Kyle Peters walks us through James 3v13-18, discussing the true wisdom of God.
We head back into James with Kyle Peters focusing on the need for control over our tongues and how that steers the course of our lives.
Steph Pienaar wraps up the Distinct series, unpacking what Jesus means when he says that we cannot serve both God and money.
Hear what Paul, Lee & Kyle got up to at the Advance Conference in the UK earlier this month and how it can stir us to further the mission of Christ.
In continuing looking at James' instruction to not show partiality, James points us towards the royal law!
1 Peter 1:1-2. Our Identity as Christian's…our place in the world (Exiles) and our standing before God (Elect).
James warns against a self-deception that leads to worthless religion. He therefore provides three tests for all of us to apply so that we know that we have received the real deal of Jesus Christ.
James urges us this week to be people who don't just say we agree with things God says but to actually live them out, otherwise we are deceiving ourselves.
Statistically and experientially, the world is getting angrier, and we are also contributors in various ways. Today we look of James' wisdom and how we can be ambassadors of peace and the realms we have control over.
This week James has some provocative words and reveals that both wealth and poverty are trials the Christians face.
James 1:5-8 teaches us that in order to grow in maturity as Christ-followers we need God’s wisdom.
We kick off our James series by getting an introduction to James and his audience and then explore the topic of trials as James tells us to remember that they are a normal part of life, God has a purpose in them and that we can rejoice in what God is doing in the midst of our hardships.
Ephesian 2:10
10For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Being in Christ Jesus, means walking in good works.
Is Radical Change Possible?
Yes, through intentional spiritual formation in the way of Jesus.
Many of us want to connect with God and spend time encountering Jesus by the Spirit through the Bible... but we struggle. There are (probably) many reasons for this, one of them being that we often simply don't know what we're reading and so we get bored, frustrated and misuse the scriptures. In today's episode Kyle tries to help us move in the right direction in our relationship to the Bible and get us excited around the richness of God's word!
M. Robert Mulholland Jr wrote that “our religious false self may be rigorous in religiosity, devoted in discipleship and sacrificial in service—without being in loving union with God…. A religious false self will expend amazing amounts of energy and resources to be in the world for God. But the true self is called to be in God for the world.”
As we launch our new series, we start by talking about our need for the tangible presence of God.
Greg shares about the life that we lead today becomes the legacy we leave tomorrow.
This festive season we primarily hear from pastors outside of our church. And the brief to them was simply, "Please share a message of encouragement!"
Lex is from Jubilee Community Church in Kloof Street!
This festive season we primarily hear from pastors outside of our church. And the brief to them was simply, "Please share a message of encouragement!"
(Kevin Murphy is from Watermark Community Church in Hong Kong)
This festive season we primarily hear from pastors outside of our church. And the brief to them was simply, "Please share a message of encouragement!"
Jesus is questioned on what is the most important command in the Old Testament Law and he responds in ways that reveal our hearts, our motives and allow us to actually test if we are truly loving God.
God's people are given the wonderful ways of God that lead to human flourishing and God's glory. Today we learn that rules are not opposed to relationship but rather the right rules make relationships work!
Fifty days after Passover the people of God gather at the foot of Mount Sinai. The burning bush has now become a mountain on fire as God comes down and reminds them of what he has done, what he required and what he promises.
Moses received wisdom and insight through Jethro and deploys and structures the people of God according to their gifts for the flourishing of the community. We too must be a people who contribute to the forward movement of God's Kingdom by playing our part and yielding to the good order that God has laid out for his people.
Recorded at the start of the 2020 lockdown, here is a deep dive on the gift of Sabbath by Paul Maughan
The people of Israel are out of Egypt and on the other side of the Red Sea. The highs of worship are followed by the lows of testing, but thankfully God has a rest prepared for them.
Today we reach the moment of the exodus itself as God parts the Red Sea. The big questions coming out of this story are who will you fear and who own's the people of God?
Lee explores the tenth and final plague as the blood of a lamb protects people from a judgement of death.
Did Pharaoh harden his own heart to God, or did God harden it? Let's explore this question together.
God demands that Pharaoh let His people go out of slavery and unleashes 10 plagues on Egypt as part of His judgement and revelation of Himself.
We begin a new journey in the book of Exodus as we see how God's people will be drawn out of oppression and slavery and drawn in to deeper relationship with him.
Jesus is confronted by a religious group known as the Sadducees about the afterlife and questions around physical resurrection. Jesus reveals to us that this truth is a glorious hope that we have throughout this life!
As Christ-followers we are dual citizens... how do live as citizens of earthly kingdoms like South Africa whilst also being citizens of Heaven. In the midst of political upheaval and tension, Jesus speaks into this...
Jesus tells the Jewish leaders a parable about some tenants who are looking after a vineyard for the owner. We are reminded that we are tenants and stewards and that everything is God's!
Jesus enters Jerusalem, and after visiting the temple the night before, returns to judge it. Mark also skillfully weaves in the enacted parable of the fig tree that was nice from far but far from nice. You see Jesus didn't come to improve the Temple system, he came to replace it with Himself.
In this passage Jesus twices asks the question, "What do you want me to do for you?". How would you answer Jesus? Let us lean in and look at the different responses of James and John as well as Bartimaeus.
Jesus shocks his disciples by saying that the kingdom includes those with childlike faith but excludes those that trust in their wealth.
Link to lottery winners Time magazine article here - https://time.com/4176128/powerball-jackpot-lottery-winners/
Jesus reveals to us how hard hearts towards God cause us to push against his designs and plans for human flourishing, especially in the realm of marriage.
For a full treatment on the topic of divorce and remarriage please follow this link: http://bit.ly/CGCdivorce
Jesus reminds us the God sees all and he reminds us of the seriousness of sin and it's consequences.
In the spirit of community, Kyle and Paul sit down together and chat around what Christian community is all about.
Anxiety and depression have been on the rise over the last decade. We spend some time understanding why this is the case and then explore God's promises and tools for dealing with it.
Two books that were referenced in this message:
"Strange Days: Life in the Spirit in a Time of Upheaval" by Mark Sayers
"The Coddling of the American Mind" by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt
Stepping out and Doing what Jesus would do (Mission)
Learning to love your neighbour by eating and drinking together.
Discovering and using your spiritual gift to build up your church.
Serving others by looking around to identify an area of practical need and meeting it (this could involve joining a ministry team).
Teaching the way and making disciples.
Doing justice and standing up against religious and political corruption.
Growing in your understanding of the complexity of Cape Town to become a better Ambassador for Christ.
Finding a practical way to love and serve the great City of Cape Town.
Inviting someone to church or Alpha.
I wore that WWJD bracelet but it was not enough! Let us all consider the reasons why we find joining God on his mission hard and ask the Spirit to empower us!
Mission is important because God has prepared good works for all of us. (Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.")
Mission is important because love is the point of our apprenticeship. (John 13:34-35:“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”)
Do you consider any good things you've done as rubbish in light of knowing Jesus? The Apostle Paul reminds us of how we desperately need the righteousness of Jesus and the joy it is to gain Christ and be found in him.
Presence, Formation and Mission do not happen in isolation but at the same time. This week we look at the Mission that God has for us as we pray "In Sea Point, as it is in heaven".
To round out this mini season, Kyle chats with Roger from CG Blouberg about his journey of formation…
Today we look at the counter-formational practices we need to give ourselves to in order to move forward in becoming like Jesus. We will need to replace the world’s stories with the teaching of Jesus. We will need to be intentional with how we spend our time and who we surround ourselves with, and lastly we will need to be in the presence of the Holy Spirit and walk in step with Him.
The process of formation and sanctification is not easy. Today we look at some of the reasons why this is and why we get frustrated along the journey.
We are all becoming someone. We are all on a trajectory and are being shaped and formed into a type of person. The question is what is shaping us and what are we being formed into?
This week Rigby shared about the revolution of humility (humiltas in Greek). John Dickson says that "We can date this innovation in ethical reasoning precisely to the middle of the 1st C in a letter written by the apostle Paul to the Christians in the Roman colony of Philippi in northern Greece. Paul urges his readers to live in humility, choosing to think of others as better than themselves. He then drives the point home by quoting a hymn, presumably one known and sung in Philippi, that speaks of Jesus’s humilitas on the cross.’
Today we start a new season exploring the idea of formation or sanctification… fancy words for “Becoming like Jesus”.
Have you got stuck in a rut in your life of communion with God? These 12 prayer postures help us come before the presence of God.
- Praise 2. Waiting 3. Confession 4. Scripture praying 5. Watching 6. Intercession 7. Petition 8. Thanksgiving 9. Singing 10. Meditation 11. Listening 12. Praise
What is the next step for you? What new practice will you start to enjoy the presence of God?
You can access our Practicing the Way of Jesus document here --> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pc60HGxM5-rtuzpsaVcXXIlE1YGCn8kW/view
"Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy,to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen." (Judev24-25)
Jesus tells the parable of the sower, who generously scatters seed on 4 different kinds of soil. The disciples are puzzled by it's meaning and so he explains it in detail to them. (Mark 4v1-20)
-
There is hard soil that quickly has the seed taken away by Satan.
-
There is soil that lacks depth, and so roots do not take hold, and at the first sign of adversity, the seed withers.
-
There is soil that contains weeds (cares of this world, deceitfulness of wealth and the desire for other things) that choke the seed.
-
There is good soil that receives the seed and bears much fruit.
How is the soil of your heart? What makes it hard for you to desire God?
For this month we are all reading the book of Philippians together, following along with this devotional booklet: (https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5d97108e3f9040327fe3c979/t/6033bdd321a4201acbd33790/1614003670836/PHILIPPIANS_DEVOTIONAL_BOOK%28digital%29.pdf)
We would be wise to pursue the presence of God through scripture because his truth is "more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb." Ps 19v10
We think the exact opposite - To Live is Gain and To Die is Christ. Lets look at what Paul really meant when he wrote this to the Philippians.
In this episode we introduce the new season of Strange Days and explain what we mean when we encourage one another towards "Being wtih Jesus".
Kyle preaches on Jesus' invitation to be great by being the last of all and servant of all.
Drew preaches on the story of the demon-possessed boy and the father who asks Jesus for help with his belief!
Paul preaches on the story of Jesus being transfigured on the mountain and God calling us to listen to Jesus, his son.
Kyle preaches on Jesus' invitation to follow him to glory through a life shaped by the cross.
JOIN US THIS HOLY WEEK // Holy Week is an opportunity to be reminded as followers of the Way of Jesus, that God sent his only Son to atone for our sin in the ultimate sacrifice and gesture that God has for his people.
JOIN US THIS HOLY WEEK // Holy Week is an opportunity to be reminded as followers of the Way of Jesus, that God sent his only Son to atone for our sin in the ultimate sacrifice and gesture that God has for his people.
JOIN US THIS HOLY WEEK // Holy Week is an opportunity to be reminded as followers of the Way of Jesus, that God sent his only Son to atone for our sin in the ultimate sacrifice and gesture that God has for his people.
JOIN US THIS HOLY WEEK // Holy Week is an opportunity to be reminded as followers of the Way of Jesus, that God sent his only Son to atone for our sin in the ultimate sacrifice and gesture that God has for his people.
JOIN US THIS HOLY WEEK // Holy Week is an opportunity to be reminded as followers of the Way of Jesus, that God sent his only Son to atone for our sin in the ultimate sacrifice and gesture that God has for his people.
JOIN US THIS HOLY WEEK // Holy Week is an opportunity to be reminded as followers of the Way of Jesus, that God sent his only Son to atone for our sin in the ultimate sacrifice and gesture that God has for his people.
Today we wrap up our entire conversation by looking Critical Theory as a coherent worldview, what will make it hard to consistently hold to it whilst also holding to the Christian worldview and then offer some final thoughts from the Sermon on the Mount (and elsewhere) on how to engage with justice conversations and content.
It’s been building to this… the Critical Theory answer to humanity’s problem! Today Richard and Kyle unpack the fourth and final tenet of Critical Theory, but rather than trying to state everything they are against or disagree with, they attempt to paint a full glorious picture of the Bible’s understanding of justice in contrast to the post-modern secular version that is found in Critical Theory.
We should always accept people’s lived experience… says Critical Theory. Today Rich and Kyle continue the conversation around the idea that those who are oppressed have special access to truth that should be taken as authoritative. They finish off exploring how this idea severely impacts our relationships and unity in the church as well as how it goes against both secular and Christian wisdom when it comes to counselling through methods such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
“We should always accept people’s lived experience”… says Critical Theory. Today Rich and Kyle start a conversation around the idea that those who are oppressed have special access to truth that should be taken as authoritative. They unpack the impact this has on relationships, scripture and society as well as exploring fancy terms like “Standpoint Epistemology”.
Hegemony: the control of the ideology of society. Welcome to the second tenet of Critical Theory where we explore the idea that the dominant group maintains power by imposing their ideology on everyone. Today Rich and Kyle seek to understand the concept, affirm what we can affirm, and then point out the flaws, the confusion with terminology and the incompatibilities with following Jesus.
The whole of humanity is divided along the lines of oppressed and oppressor. This is the first tenet of Critical Theory known as The Social Binary. Today Rich and Kyle continue their conversation and attempt to point out some of the flaws and incompatibilities with Christianity and offer some pastoral insight.
A talk that we didn't mention for time's sake:
Michael Ramsden (RZIM) - Is there a cure for today's victim culture?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9g1GzId_HKc
The whole of humanity is divided along the lines of oppressed and oppressor. This is the first tenet of Critical Theory known as The Social Binary. Today Rich and Kyle unpack this concept as well as the idea of intersectionality and draw out what we can affirm as Christ-followers!
Links mentioned in this episode
Intersectionality Axis diagram
https://images.app.goo.gl/ZQArDgmvird7RC4h9
Ayishat Akanbi shares in her interview on Triggernometry
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuAd_IAkOl4
Ayishat Akanbi - The problem with Wokeness
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sni7ghqHBJw
Leading Critical Theorist opponent Helen Pluckrose mentions how spending time reading Critical Theory affected her outlook on life
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmJXitG9Co0
Heard these words? “Intersectionality” “White privilege” “White fragility” “colorblind racism” “internalized oppression” “lived experience” “heteronormativity” “gender performativity” “epistemic injustice” “cisheteropatriarchy” “compulsory heterosexuality” “whiteness”
They’re all linked with the concept of Critical Theory.
Strange Days is back for a new season, with longer episode run times and a conversational dynamic. Join Kyle Peters and Rich Lundie as they start discussing Critical Theory.
20 Bless the Lord, O you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his word,
obeying the voice of his word!
21 Bless the Lord, all his hosts,
his ministers, who do his will!
22 Bless the Lord, all his works,
in all places of his dominion.
Bless the Lord, O my soul!
15 As for man, his days are like grass;
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
16 for the wind passes over it, and it is gone,
and its place knows it no more.
17 But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him,
and his righteousness to children's children,
18 to those who keep his covenant
and remember to do his commandments.
19 The Lord has established his throne in the heavens,
and his kingdom rules over all.
6 The Lord works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
8 The Lord is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9 He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
10 He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
13 As a father shows compassion to his children,
so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.
14 For he knows our frame;
he remembers that we are dust.
We are practicing the Spiritual Practice of reading Psalm 103 together devotionally this week. Let us begin with:
1 Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
2Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
3who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
4who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
5who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
We are practicing the Spiritual Practice of reading Psalm 23 together devotionally this week. We continue with “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” And end with Psalm 91.
We are practicing the Spiritual Practice of reading Psalm 23 together devotionally this week. We continue with “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
We are practicing the Spiritual Practice of reading Psalm 23 together devotionally this week. We look at Psalm 1 to gain a greater understanding of “paths of righteousness”.
We are practicing the Spiritual Practice of reading Psalm 23 together devotionally this week. We continue with “He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
We are practicing the Spiritual Practice of reading Psalm 23 together devotionally this week. Let us begin with “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.”
We are not God! You’ll hear that a lot in this episode. Limits of time, space, resources, skills are not setbacks but gifts to help us discern what God wants from us and for us in particular seasons of life!
Prudence? What is that? What does the Bible say about it? Why should we pray for it and try to adopt it as part of our lifestyles? These are the things we chat about today.
Today we explore the need to take time out in silence, solitude and prayer to prepare our hearts to make the decisions God wants and not just what we want.
Increase in attendance, accumulating more wealth and possessions, expanding your business…. How do you define success as a Christ-follower? Today we explore how we need to redefine success according to the will of God.
Decisions… we make them every day. Every yes is a thousand no’s. If life is made up of millions of decisions that direct the course of our lives and we’re going to answer to God for our lives one day, it’s worth taking some time to consider how to do it well, and how to do it poorly.
Today we get super practical and look at getting simple with the papers that often live all over our homes! Praise God for digital.
Today we get super practical and look at getting simple with the things / stuff / general clutter in our lives! Warning: it can get emotional!
Today we get super practical and look at getting simple with the clothes we own and wear.
As Christian’s we’d easily say that Jesus is right about everything. That’s kind of a core part of our faith. But do we always believe it? Probably not and that hurts us, and so we need to reaffirm, internalize and believe Jesus’ rightness on every topic including this one of simplicity!
The things we buy have hidden costs. We don’t always read the Ts and Cs, and we end up paying a bigger price than we initially intended. Today we explore the various costs that we pay in both the seen and the unseen realm when it comes to the accumulation of wealth and possessions.
How did we get here? How did we arrive in a world where we are convinced we need more? And is this a natural or supernatural question?
Do your clothes, or your wealth or possessions speak of who you are? Might there be a search for meaning in the pursuit of stuff? Today we examine these thoughts.
Will the accumulation of wealth and material possessions bring happiness or not? There seems to be conflicting views out there and so today we start to explore the words of Jesus as we embark on a new journey together!
We need feedback. We’re not islands and we all have blind spots. Thank goodness for the gift of community that we’ve been given by God!
Mbonisi Malaba, from One Tribe Church in Nairobi, Kenya and a partner in the Advance Movement preached on The Fiery Trials.
What are the stories we tell ourselves that are negative, untrue, based in our life experiences and yet cause us to interpret the world around us? Today we talk about identifying these negative scripts so that we can speak truth to ourselves.
We might have Jesus in our heart but we’ve got grandpa in our bones. Today we look into the tool of understanding how our family history contributes to your present reality and what will we pass on to the next generation and those around us.
Lacking vocabulary to answer the question “how are you doing”? Running dry with glad, mad and sad? Today we learn to create space and articulate the answer to that question!
What might happen if you just sweep your shortcomings and dark side under the rug? What might happen if you face your shadow? This is a question worth asking ourselves!
How do you approach your shadow? It’s ok to realize we’re not ok, but it’s not ok to stay there. We want to learn about who were truly are and then we want to move forward into Christlikeness!
Untamed emotions. Damaged pasts. Less then pure motives and thoughts. We all have these in some shape or form and today we start to unpack them.
Ever wondered why it sometimes seems easier to lead others than it does to lead yourself? Today we start to explore that part of the reason it’s hard is because it means facing yourself.. facing your inner life and facing your dark side!
As we end this season today, we get extremely practical about incorporating spiritual practices in a daily, weekly, monthly rhythm that will change our lives for the glory of God!
In order to have lives that bare fruit we need to get everything ready so that we can build the trellis that allows the vineyard of our lives everything it needs to flourish. Today we put some practical foundations in to craft our own rule of life!
Ever desperately wanted to become a certain type of person and yet it doesn’t happen? Perhaps your lifestyle is just not set up to make you into the kind of want to be. That’s where a rule of life comes in…
To finish off this important season we are looking at a whole bunch of other ideas that will help us slow our pace, our life and our being in order to be present to God, others and ourselves.
After laying the foundations regarding our need to slow down and the consequences of not doing so, we begin to look at some practicalities that will help us achieve a slow pace of being!
We’ve spoken a lot of about hurry being incompatible with the way of Jesus and so it seems fitting to now zero in on the life of Jesus himself and watch the master at work!
Too busy for God… essentially this is how we live a lot of the time even though we’d never say it. Today we investigate the greatest cost of hurry sickness!
Are you hyper-sensitive, easily irritated or do you find yourself binging Netflix far too often? You might have Hurry Sickness like the rest of us.
How loving are you to those around you when you are in a rush? Do you sense an amazing sense of joy and peace when you are late? Today we continue to explore the incompatibility of hurry with the way of Jesus.
Have you ever thought of hurry being one of, if not the greatest enemy of spiritual life in our day? Today we start to explore the incompatibility of hurry with the way of Jesus.
Today Paul Maughan shares a little bit of his journey around emotional health and what our journey will look like over the coming weeks.
Is success always bigger and better? What we do bigger than who we are? Today we explore and unpack a bunch of unspoken assumptions we often live by.
How’s your self-awareness? Today we start to look at the topic of emotional health which will be unpacked practically over the next few seasons of the podcast.
Today Megan from our Sea Point congregation shares some of her stories of community being a life line during Covid-19.
Today Debbie from our Green Point congregation shares some of her stories and encouragements of being a part of a life group!
Today Lee-ann Maughan shares some examples of what Christian community looks like in her life and why it’s been such a good thing!
Commitment… what a struggle in our culture! Between our selfish natures, a commitment phobic culture and now the challenges of the Corona Virus, community is seriously hard and we need to comes to grips with it and figure out how to overcome the challenges and live in the freedom of commitment!
In this time of Covid-19, we’ve realized that being alone and isolated seems to rub against our humanity. God knows the value of community which is why he emphasizes Christian community so much in his word! Join us as we refresh ourselves on the wonder of community in this time of distancing!
God wants to reach many and have millions turn to him in repentance and faith. He’s looking for people to be involved in order for that to happen and if you already love Jesus, he’s looking at you!
Mountaintop Experiences… some love them, some are wary of them. What should we make of them and of getting away with people for the clear purpose of praying?
We’ve all got people who have hurt us, mistreated us, possibly even abused us. Jesus calls us to do the most radical, counter cultural, unnatural thing ever… love them and pray for them!
We are all making decisions, and in this season many of us are needing to make bigger decisions than we thought we would need to make this year! Let’s learn from Jesus about seeking God when these big decisions are looming and start the conversation about receiving guidance from God!
Like any battle, the coming of Jesus’ Kingdom seems to advance in waves. There are times of pushing forward and then there are strategic times of retreat and consolidation. We see today that Jesus’ desperately needed time alone with His Father to strengthen himself, and therefore so do you and I.
Power and affirmation are two things that many people in general often desire, and they are two things that all Christians need in order to live the life we’ve been called to live! Today we explore the connection between prayer, the Holy Spirit and these two things.
Today we are going to learn from and be inspired by the prayer life of Anna the prophetess!
Why do some churches burn incense? Today we explore the biblical imagery of smoke and incense and why we should hold onto that image and let God inspire us to pray because of it!
If you missed Sunday message, or you want a refresher of what was said, take a listen to this podcast episode.
For the next season we are going to unpack all of Luke’s mentions of prayer in his writings! Today we lay some foundations and get to know Luke himself, the biggest contributor to the New Testament!
With all the foundations in place, it’s time to plan and prepare to actually fast! Today we get practical!
Today we continue to figure out the motives for fasting as we look at the fact that it is a way to love and serve the suffering!
Why do we fast? Today we start to answer this question and look at the fact that fasting is an invitation for the Spirit of God to work in us and it’s a prayer to God!
Is fasting a way of getting God to owe you, or getting healthy? Is it a way of proving yourself to be spiritual, or getting the attention of others? Today we attempt to dismantle these and other misconceptions around this important spiritual habit.
If you missed Sunday message, or you want a refresher of what was said, take a listen to this podcast episode.
Fasting is an ancient spiritual practice that we don’t really give ourselves to much anymore and a practice we don’t really know too much about. Today we start to change both those things.
Our Father has promised to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask? What is this? What does it mean? Today we attempt to answer this massive question from these last lines of Jesus’ teaching on prayer in Luke 11.
Ever seen a dad throw a cobra at his little kid? Sounds like something out of a Tim Burton film, but it’s part of the story Jesus uses to emphasize just how good our heavenly Father is and why we can always trust his answers to prayer!
Have you ever felt like you didn’t want to bother God? Jesus certainly wants us to never feel like that again because shockingly he literally calls us to be shameless as we come to God with requests!
Ever wondered if you’re wasting your time with prayer? Today, we allow Charles Spurgeon to remind us about the authority of Jesus and the promises he makes in his teachings on prayer that give us confidence to go and pray!
If you missed Sunday message, or you want a refresher of what was said, take a listen to this podcast episode.
Does God tempt us? Could God lead you into temptation? Can God allow you to never be tempted? These are all good questions that many of us have thought about and today we explore them as we continue to learn from Jesus how to pray.
We are called to pray for the forgiveness of our sins as often as we pray, and we are called to be people who forgive others constantly too! These are massive tasks that we all need to process, prepare for and ask God’s help in!
In light of praying for the glory of God and the coming of His Kingdom, Jesus calls us to pray for our needs. More often than not, many of us have actually forgotten we need to pray for provision because we’ve become so accustomed to having it. Let’s explore the nuances of this verse.
What is the Kingdom of God? When will it come? How will it come? What can you do about? That’s what we’re chatting about today!
Are we meant to be praying about Halloween or something? Today we chat through the first thing the Lord Jesus tells us to pray about… the name of God!
If you missed Sunday message, or you want a refresher of what was said, take a listen to this podcast episode.
When you’re sending mail it’s important to get the recipient right otherwise who knows where your message might end up! Today we explore the first word of Jesus’ model prayer: Father!
As we embark on our journey into prayer, we start by recognizing the uniqueness and authority of our teacher!
It’s a new season here on Strange Days as we explore the massive topic and arguably the most important spiritual practice of prayer!
Join us today as we wrap up this series on singing. We'll be exploring how we sing and the impact of singing in our lives. What a gift God has given us in singing together.
Today we continue looking at why we sing - and hear that we are both commanded and compelled to sing! Why not spend some time meditating on Psalm 96 if you're feeling stirred by the questions at the end of today's podcast?
Welcome to our new season where we'll be looking at where singing comes from and starting the conversation around why we sing. Here are some helpful resources for anyone who would like to delve a bit deeper into the topic: Sing by Keith and Kristyn Getty, and Worship Matters by Bob Kauflin (this one is especially helpful for worship leaders/musicians and church leaders).
If you missed Sunday message, or you want a refresher of what was said, take a listen to this podcast episode. Advance is a movement of churches around the world that we are part of.
Today Kyle wraps up this season and pulls together some of the themes from the week’s lessons that various Common Grounders have shared with us.
Three weeks ago today, with lockdown about to start, Savanah, a final year medical student at UCT got married to Murray! Listen to her share what God’s been teaching her as she volunteers at a hospital and figures out the first few days of being a wife!
Elbre lives in Green Point and is part of our Inner City congregation. She works for a global fashion retailer and today she is going to share with us what God’s been saying to her in her times of silence and solitude and reminding her of from the Bible!
If you missed Easter Sunday message, or you want a refresher of what was said, take a listen to this podcast episode.
Ziba leads our Langa congregation, located in the oldest township in the city, and he also suffers from a serious immune deficiency. It’s a privilege to have him share his encouragements with us today!
Today we kick of a new series hearing from various Common Grounders from around the city. First off Garth and Sam from Bosch PM are sharing with us their experience of contracting COVID-19 and the lessons they’ve been learning!
If you missed Good Friday message, or you want a refresher of what was said, take a listen to this podcast episode.
As we close out our series on Sabbath, Paul shares some of the highs and lows of the Maughan family’s attempts at a 24 hour period of rest, delight and worship.
One of the things that will stop our Sabbaths from being as delightful, restful, pleasurable and worshipful as they should be is bad planning. Let’s figure out how we overcome that.
There are many wrong ideas, confusing thoughts, as well as internal and external obstacles that get in the way of us truly enjoying the gift of Sabbath! Today we try to make the way a little clearer.
Is Sabbath yet another thing we need to do? Today we get our hearts into alignment around the invitation God has given us.
Today we are starting a new season looking at the spiritual practice of Sabbath, a weekly rhythm we desperately need, but one we often ignore.
Our final episode of season one explores the idea that time alone with God should produce a fire in our hearts for the sake of the world.
We’re all making decisions and we all seek guidance from somewhere. Today we explore how God may guide us during our times of Silence and Solitude.
Join us today as we explore the fact that when we come before God we will also come face to face with ourselves. It might not be pretty, but as we do this, God brings transformation through his grace.
There are some problems far too big for us to solve, and some issues far too complex for us to control. At times we need to rest our over active minds in God and humbly accept our limits in his presence.
We are not souls waiting to escape our bodies. We are embodied beings and our spiritual wellbeing is linked to our physical life.
There are times when we get dangerously tired and even hanging with God seems like too much. We're in good company.
There'll be times when you don't want to or can't seem to be silent and alone with God. Don't be surprised.
Today we look at the opportunity we've been given during this time to seek the presence of God.
An introduction to our new series during these strange days we face together amidst the Corona Virus Pandemic.
2000 years ago, the Jewish nation was waiting, hoping and expecting good news. Good news about the promised messiah and king.
All of us, just like 2000 years ago, are looking to the future, waiting, hoping and expectant for some good news.
In this series we’ll be spending 5 weeks studying the first chapter of Mark. We’ll see the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, who he was as a man and what he did while here on Earth.
This series asks and answers some of life’s biggest questions. Who is Jesus? Why did he come to Earth and Why is this such Good News?
In a world that too often feels like it’s on the brink, finally we can dive in and get some
Good News At Last!
2000 years ago, the Jewish nation was waiting, hoping and expecting good news. Good news about the promised messiah and king.
All of us, just like 2000 years ago, are looking to the future, waiting, hoping and expectant for some good news.
In this series we’ll be spending 5 weeks studying the first chapter of Mark. We’ll see the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, who he was as a man and what he did while here on Earth.
This series asks and answers some of life’s biggest questions. Who is Jesus? Why did he come to Earth and Why is this such Good News?
In a world that too often feels like it’s on the brink, finally we can dive in and get some
Good News At Last!
2000 years ago, the Jewish nation was waiting, hoping and expecting good news. Good news about the promised messiah and king.
All of us, just like 2000 years ago, are looking to the future, waiting, hoping and expectant for some good news.
In this series we’ll be spending 5 weeks studying the first chapter of Mark. We’ll see the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, who he was as a man and what he did while here on Earth.
This series asks and answers some of life’s biggest questions. Who is Jesus? Why did he come to Earth and Why is this such Good News?
In a world that too often feels like it’s on the brink, finally we can dive in and get some
Good News At Last!
2000 years ago, the Jewish nation was waiting, hoping and expecting good news. Good news about the promised messiah and king.
All of us, just like 2000 years ago, are looking to the future, waiting, hoping and expectant for some good news.
In this series we’ll be spending 5 weeks studying the first chapter of Mark. We’ll see the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, who he was as a man and what he did while here on Earth.
This series asks and answers some of life’s biggest questions. Who is Jesus? Why did he come to Earth and Why is this such Good News?
In a world that too often feels like it’s on the brink, finally we can dive in and get some
Good News At Last!
2000 years ago, the Jewish nation was waiting, hoping and expecting good news. Good news about the promised messiah and king.
All of us, just like 2000 years ago, are looking to the future, waiting, hoping and expectant for some good news.
In this series we’ll be spending 5 weeks studying the first chapter of Mark. We’ll see the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, who he was as a man and what he did while here on Earth.
This series asks and answers some of life’s biggest questions. Who is Jesus? Why did he come to Earth and Why is this such Good News?
In a world that too often feels like it’s on the brink, finally we can dive in and get some
Good News At Last!
2000 years ago, the Jewish nation was waiting, hoping and expecting good news. Good news about the promised messiah and king.
All of us, just like 2000 years ago, are looking to the future, waiting, hoping and expectant for some good news.
In this series we’ll be spending 5 weeks studying the first chapter of Mark. We’ll see the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, who he was as a man and what he did while here on Earth.
This series asks and answers some of life’s biggest questions. Who is Jesus? Why did he come to Earth and Why is this such Good News?
In a world that too often feels like it’s on the brink, finally we can dive in and get some
Good News At Last!