Ammanford Church Sermon Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ammanford Evangelical Church
A blend of the latest and classic sermons preached at Ammanford Evangelical Church. Speakers include our current pastors Sammy Davies and John Perry as well as some old friends.
As we draw near the conclusion of the book of Kings, Pastor Sammy takes us on a quick tour of Josiah, the child King who oversaw a great renewal in the people. The question for us is, do we want it? Do we want God's Kingdom come? What might that look like amongst us?
We are back in the book of Kings, stopping at some of the 'highlights.' This week, Sammy takes us to chapter 17 of the second book and the sad story of Israel's exile from the land. What hope can we draw from such a sad story of continued rebellion?
Pastor John Perry continues our series exploring some of the defining characteristics of our church. In this sermon we consider why the sacraments (baptism and communion) are important parts of our church life.
The more we 'live for Christ' the more we can expect opposition for His sake. But how do we respond? How do we endure? Guest Preacher Clive Bowsher joins us to help share the good news that God still dwells with His people and strengthens us in our sufferings.
At Ammanford Evangelical Church we want to be open and accessible to all sorts of people. Why is that? Why do we go out of our way to be accessible to all?
Surely knowing about, or better still knowing personally, Jesus is all that really matters. And once you know him ... there's nothing more? Today Pastor John Perry helps us to consider why we want to know Jesus more and more all our lives.
It's almost an assumed that believers and churches will spend time, energy, and effort in order to make Jesus more known - why tho? We walk. through a number of scriptures to help unpack both the duty and the delight of sharing Jesus with the world.
The Bible bubbles to the service of all we do publically and privately - why is that? Isn't it outdated and unreliable? Why are we always banging on about the Bible????
As we continue to explore the sort of church we are, we look to 'leadership' and why our leaders shouldn't be revered, exalted, or put on a pedestal. Simply, it's because Jesus tells us that the world we're used to has gotten leadership very, very, wrong.
IN our new series, exploring some of the things that describe and define us, we ask the question, 'why is the Gospel foundational to all we do?'
How can we ever expect to understand the Kingdom of God when we won't listen to the one revealing it?
In our final (for a while) installment from the book of Kings, Pastor Sammy davies takes us to a simple tale which echoes the biggest story in scripture
This week as we celebrate baptism in our Sunday Service - Pastor John Perry revisits 2 Kings 5
We continue our series in the Book of Kings - Pastor John Perry opens up for us the story of good news in a very desperate situation
How do we react to a world that intends harm for us? Do we retreat into our own strength? Do we call down fire from heaven? Or do we feed those who persecute us?
This week Pastor John Perry opens up 2 Kings 5 for us, the story of Naham and his healing. It prompts the question of why it is, or what it is, that draws us out in search of God.
Sammy Davies continues our time in 2 Kings by exploring the similarities between 5 miracles in the ministry of Elisha found in chapter 5 - and how the Spirit of God brings life into our deathly existance.
In the midst of a pretty horrid story the people call out to GOD - there are some lessons for us to learn even at the heart of such a wretched story.
Pastor John Perry takes us across the threshold into the book of 2 Kings. What happens when we move from one era into the next? Whose footsteps are we following in?
This week Iwan Robb takes us back into the book of the Kings and tackles the uncomfortable topic of God's judgement. Wonderfully, we desire justice, and our loving God is one who brings it.
Pastor Sammy Davies walks us through the story of Elijah, running for his life, and the comfort God provides for his journey
Pastor John Perry takes us back to the book of the Kings and the strange, exciting encounter Elijah has with the prophets of Baal
Pastor Sammy Davies asks the question, 'what is grace?' A word we use, a line in a song, a concept we cherish. But what is it? Paul's closing remarks to Titus help us to flesh out this important word.
This week we have a guest preacher Ben Franks.Ben takes us to 1 Samuel 17 to consider how we can have gospel ambition in the face of a nation that has rejected it.
This week we have a guest preacher the Rev. Stuart Bell. Easter may be over but the power of the resurrection endures.
As we continue a short break from our series in the book of Kings - John Perry helps us to consider the practice of hospitality that is bourne out of Christ's love for us displayed on the Cross.
As we continue a short break from our series in the book of Kings - Sammy Davies helps us to consider a theology of blessing/curse and what that means for us today.
A Good Friday Sermon with some dramatic readings of the experiences of those who witnessed the first Good Friday
As we approach Easter Sunday we are pausing to contemplate the culmination of Jesus' mission.On Palm Sunday we revisit a familiar story and learn 4 lessons before asking 1 question of all of us.
As we approach Easter we find in the Book of Kings 3 stories of hope in the most hopeless situations; help being found in the strangest of places.
Pastor Sammy Davies continues our journey through the Book of Kings - exploring the steep decent and asking how things got so bad (and so good!)
Pastor Sammy continues our exploration of the Book of Kings as we transition from Solomon's 'heavy' reign to those who would come after him. Will things get easier? Is ease what we should be looking for?
We pause our series in 1 Kings and turn our attention to some familiar words. Pastor Sammy Davies encourages us to find ourselves in places where we can see God's greatness, be honest about our own failings and respond to the invitation to minister His gospel. Go to 100.cymru or Ygrwp.com to find out about the things he mentions
As we continue our studies in the book of Kings - Pastor John Perry takes us to the demise of Solomon and warns against the danger of a heart that is divided - in order to live we must go to the one who is torn apart in our place
John Perry continues our series in the Book of Kings and helps us to consider Solomons' construction of the Temple
Pastor John Perry continues in the Book of Kings by exploring Solomons request for wisdom, its impact and what true wisdom looks like.
As we begin a new serries in the book of Kings - Pastor Sammy looks at how evil sometimes seems to fill the void but how the true King speaks and His will is done
As we continue to plan and prepare for 2024 - what expectations can we have for our times gathered together?
As we begin the New Year Pastor Sammy Davies asks whether we are expecting to grow in our faith and in what areas we can pray confidently to grow.
It's the 4th Sunday in Advent and Emyr Jenkins helps us reflect on the promised return of Jesus and the impact it has on our lives today.
Third Sunday of Advent - Pastor John Perry takes us to the coming of the Holy Spirit to see how God answers our desperate calls, "Where are you God?"
Second Sunday of Advent - Pastor Sammy Davies takes us to the birth of Jesus to see how God answers our desperate calls, "Where are you God?"
First Sunday of Advent - Pastor John Perry takes us to the old, old promises given to those in great darkness, that God would come and bring His light
Church intern, Iwan Robb, takes us to Paul's prayer at the beginning of his letter to the Colossians church to see what a Christian essentially is.
Pastor Sammy takes us to Joshua 4 (and 1 Corinthians 11) to learn why we must have markers of remembrance in our lives.
As the UK 'celebrates' bonfire night - Pastor John Perry takes us to the story of Joseph to think about how power should be used for the salvation of many.
Sammy Davies turns to 3 'pictures of the church' to help us see how who Jesus is and, what he has done affects us and shapes us.
Before we begin our series in the "I AM" sayings of Jesus - we take a look at Moses' encounter with the God who is and learn how to know God requires Him to draw near to us. And those who encounter God are never left unchanged.
God reveals Himself to us in His word - but what does He reveal? And why is it Good News for us?
This summer series seeks to answer those very questions - concluding with the God who Always Is
God reveals Himself to us in His word - but what does He reveal? And why is it Good News for us?
This summer series seeks to answer those very questions - continuing with the God who is Always In Control
God reveals Himself to us in His word - but what does He reveal? And why is it Good News for us?
This summer series seeks to answer those very questions - continuing with the God who is Always True
God reveals Himself to us in His word - but what does He reveal? And why is it Good News for us?
This summer series seeks to answer those very questions - beginning with the God who Always Knows
We conclude our short series in the book of Proverbs with a dive into families and marriage. Preached by Pastor John Perry
As we celebrate (in person) the baptism of 6 of our church family - Pastor Sammy unpacks the picture and reality of baptism - before exploring the "wisdom of baptism"
We continue our short series in the book of Proverbs, exploring the world of friendship, and answering the question, "How much is a friend worth?"
We continue our short series in the book of Proverbs, exploring the world of money, and answering the question, "How safe is your house?"
John Perry begins a short series in the book of Proverbs and explores why we need wisdom, and what that looks like.
Our final look at the book of Acts and Pastor Sammy asks the question 'what could have been?' for the apostle Paul if he hadn't been kept under lock and key for nearly 5 years.
(The answer is that truly, in Jesus, nothing is wasted!)
As we near the end of our times in ACTS - Pastor John Perry takes us through the desperate storm that Paul and other survived and the purposes of God in bringing them through
As we draw near the end of Acts, the story of the early church - we have the opportunity to listen in on Paul and how he understood the fruit of following Jesus in his life.
In this sermon, Rhodri Darcy takes us through Paul's defence before Felix and hones in on 3 p's that helped Paul in the pressing circumstances: God's Presence. God's Power. Paul's Persistence.
As we near the end of our time in the book of Acts we consider 4 of the hardest words for us to say - "Your will be done."Pastor Sammy Davies helps us to consider what it means to trust that God will bring it about.
As we continue through the book of Acts and the story. of the early church - our Pastor, Sammy Davies, asks whether or not we should have role models in the Christian faith (and what to look for when choosing them!)
As we continue through the book of Acts, Pastor Sammy Davies helps us to reflect on the expectations, priorities and desires of those first believers
As we continue through the book of Acts we arrive at a short description of Paul's travelling ministry of encouragement - but what does that mean? What does that look like? Do we truly want to be encouraged by God's people, His word or His Spirit?
This week Pastor Sammy Davies helps us explore some stories in the life of the early church which peel back the curtain on what a Christian should look like.
After a little break for easter we are back in the action-packed saga that is the life of the early church - this week Pastor John Perry helps us to see that when we labour in God's harvest we need not worry because the Gardner is at work.
As we continue to unbox the fullness of what Jesus accomplished (and celebrate Easter Sunday) - our Pastor, John Perry, unboxes the victory that we have through Jesus by his death and resurrection.
A Good Friday message from Pastor Sammy Davies exploring the source of all our problems and how God finds our solution through JesusAlso features a poem to conclude, "The Seed"
As we approach Easter we are taking time to consider the fullness of what Jesus achieved on the Cross - slowly unboxing the Cross of Christ.
As we approach Easter we are taking time to consider the fullness of what Jesus achieved on the Cross - slowly unboxing the Cross of Christ.This week we are considering how Jesus purifies us and removes all our guilt/shame
In this sermon we find Paul, alone in Athens, wrestling with the knowledge of God given to him amongst a people who don't know ... and may have given up searching.
"These people who are turning the world upside down ..." This is the accusation levelled against Paul and his ministry partners. But it begs the question of us, "Have our lives really been transformed by Jesus?"
We carry on with Paul's adventures declaring the gospel wherever the Spirit would lead him. Today, we conclude ch16 and learn that the Gospel really is for all of us
The next instalment in the book of Acts sees a sharp dispute, more building up of believers and some divine visions. But what could it all mean for us today?
In Acts 15 we encounter the result of lives lived on mission for Jesus - mess! Glorious mess as people from different spheres come colliding together in the Gospel. How do we deal with such mess? Is it a bad thing? And, after all, what is it that we really need to be saved???
Barnabus and Paul continue their missionary endeavours. What can we learn through these new trips and the time they spend with people?
We look at Acts 13 and the first missionary endeavours of Barnabus and Saul. Sent out by the church and the Holy Spirit - what would you expect to happen?
This week we return to the book of Acts - exploring what the church did in the aftermath of Christ's death, resurrection and ascension. In this passage Peter is imprisoned - only to experience a miraculous rescue.
When Jesus taught on prayer He included a specific prayer - in this sermon we explore how each and every line in the Lord's Prayer is subversive and, if we pray it with thinking minds, how much truth we must embrace inorder to truly pray it.
New Year, same grace. 2023 will see us question God's love for people like ME.In this sermon, Lewis Roderick (Pastor at Christchurch, Newport) gives us an encouragement to keep in the back pocket for when we undoubtedly doubt whether we're worthy of a seat at the kings table.
Over the past year we've encountered many in the bible who's desire and dependence on prayer far exceeds our own. Why is that? To begin the year Pastor Sammy challenges us to 'pray less' in order to pray more.
In this one-off sermon, Chris Hess explores what might lay in store for God's people this year if we trust Him and follow Him with all our heart, mind, soul and strength.
Advent is traditionally a time spent waiting. Longing. Hanging on to the hope that we have that Jesus will return. This advent we're exploring lots of characters who experienced significant periods of waiting in the Scriptures. This week, Pastor John Perry helps us to learn from the long wait for a King.
Advent is traditionally a time spent waiting. Longing. Hanging on to the hope that we have that Jesus will return. This advent we're exploring lots of characters who experienced significant periods of waiting in the Scriptures. This week, Pastor Sammy Davies helps us to learn from the story of Moses, and the Israelites, as they waited to enter into the promised land.
Advent is traditionally a time spent waiting. Longing. Hanging on to the hope that we have that Jesus will return. This advent we're exploring lots of characters who experienced significant periods of waiting in the Scriptures. This week, Pastor John Perry helps us to learn from Joseph and his long wait for freedom.
Advent is traditionally a time spent waiting. Longing. Hanging on to the hope that we have that Jesus will return.
This advent we're exploring lots of characters who experienced significant periods of waiting in the Scriptures. This week, Pastor Sammy Davies helps us to learn from Abraham who waited for a son.
ACTS 11:19-12:5 Pastor Sammy Davies continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week we encounter the newly established church in Antioch and revisit some common themes in the lives of Jesus' followers.
ACTS 11:1-18 Pastor John Perry continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week Peter helps his fellow believers in Jerusalem see how truly everyone is welcomed into the kingdom of God.
ACTS 10 Pastor John Perry continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week we see the kingdom of God burst out of the Jewish bubble and include the gentile population.
ACTS 9:31-43 Rhodri Darcy continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week we explore the mundane life of a godly woman and the miracle that followed her death.
ACTS 9:1-31 Pastor Sammy Davies continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week we explore Saul, intent on whipping out the name and memory of Jesus, who meets the Messiah and is utterly transformed.
ACTS 8:26-40 Pastor Sammy Davies continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week we consider a few examples we might want to follow if we want to know joy.
ACTS 8:1-25 Pastor John Perry continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week we consider the fruit that is born out of the suffering experienced in the aftermath of Stephen's killing.
ACTS 7 Pastor Sammy Davies continues our journey through the story of the early church - this week we consider Stephen's response to his accusers and what it teaches us about priorities in our lives and our ultimate source of identity.
ACTS 6&7 Pastor John Perry continues our journey through the story of the early church - as the church grows so too does the hostility of those seeking to silence the story of Jesus. This week we encounter the first martyr for the Christian faith and learn 'how to die well.'
ACTS 6:1-7 Pastor Sammy Davies continues our journey through the story of the early church - as the state of the church is examined a new threat emerges - but with the Spirit of God one thing is certain, God's kingdom will continue to grow.
ACTS 5:12-42 Pastor John Perry continues our journey through the story of the early church - as persecution continues we see God at work to strengthen and bless the first believers in Jesus.
ACTS 4:32-5:11 Pastor John Perry unpacks a unique story in the life of the church and what it reveals about our need to mirror inside what we want displayed on the outside.
Ephesians 4:1-6 Pastor Sammy Davies looks at some of the big lessons we learnt during our months studying Ephesians together in Rooted groups.
Ephesians 4/5/6 Pastor Sammy Davies looks at some of the big lessons we learnt during our months studying Ephesians together in Rooted groups.
Ephesians 2 & others Pastor Sammy Davies looks at some of the big lessons we learnt during our months studying Ephesians together in Rooted groups.
Ephesians 4:1 & others Pastor Sammy Davies looks at some of the big lessons we learnt during our months studying Ephesians together in Rooted groups.
ACTS 4:32-37 Pastor John Perry explores one of the lesser considered effects that God's presence amongst His people produced in the early church.
ACTS 4:23-31 Pastor Sammy Davies takes us to the reflex response of the early church when facing opposition and asks what we can learn from their example.
ACTS 4:1-22 Pastor John Perry takes us to the first persecution/opposition suffered by the early church and explores the resolute commitment they display towards Jesus and His message of hope and salvation.
ACTS 3:11-26 Pastor Sammy Davies takes us to Peter's second sermon in the book of Acts to observe the early church pattern of living extraordinary lives and explain the root cause. Ultimately it's a question of fixing our focus on Him.
ACTS 3:1-10 Pastor John Perry continues to explore the impact of Pentecost and the wonders that occur in Christ's church now that His Spirit has taken up residence among His people.
ACTS 2:42-47 Pastor Sammy Davies continues to unpack the events of Pentecost - this week looking at the life that is breathed into the church by the Holy Spirit. Is this a description of our church? Are we keen to pursue such signs?
ACTS 2:14-41 Pastor Sammy Davies continues to unpack the events of Pentecost - this week we look at Peter's sermon and his explanation of what's going on and how it can be great news for each of us.
It's Trinity Sunday - a day upon which Christians the world over, for centuries and millennia, have set aside to celebrate the God revealed in Trinity.
In this sermon Pastor John Perry helps us to understand why it's important to know the God who has revealed himself and why, that God, is such good news to us.
Pastor Sammy Davies helps us to see lots of things revealed in the day of Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit amongst the church. We ask what it shows us about purity and joy.
As we celebrate another year of Ammanford meeting the needs of those in crisis in our community - Pastor Sammy takes us to Matthew 15 and Jesus' compassion for a crowd to consider how we have been loved and wonder what new ways we might show compassion to others
ACTS 1:12-26
Pastor John Perry unpacks the disciple's response to Jesus' ascension and poses the question of how we prepare ourselves for what God has in store?
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - we reflect on Jesus ascension before His followers - why we might neglect this episode and how it helps us.
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - we reflect on the occasion Jesus met with a number of His disciples following a miraculous catch of fish.
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - one of Jesus' inner circle who struggled to believe the good news reports of Jesus' resurrection.
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - some of Jesus' disciples who are heading out of Jerusalem.
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - some of those closest and most faithful to Jesus, his female disciples at the empty tomb.
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - Jesus' disciples gathered together to enjoy the Passover meal.
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - Jesus' opponents and how their perception of events didn't match reality.
This new sermon series looks at some of the characters around the death and resurrection of Jesus. This week - Peter.
Chris Hess takes the pulpit to unpack Christ's message to the church in Laodicea - a timely word to believers in our day whos spiritual lives have been disrupted for nearly 2 years
This week Pastor Sammy Davies helps us explore the (odd?) reaction of Jesus' gathered disciples. Most worshipped ... but some doubted. Is it okay for Christians to have doubts? How should we deal with our doubts?
In this sermon (and extension of our Great Commission series) Jamie Hurd takes a step further to look to those disciples and how their lives were ordered in the immediate aftermath.
Continuing our series exploring the great commission - Pastor John Perry looks at Jesus promise to always be with us and explores the Bibles description of God's presence with His people.
Continuing our series exploring the great commission - Pastor Sammy looks at Jesus insistence that our behaviour should follow our beliefs
Continuing our series exploring the great commission - Pastor John peers into the reality behind our baptisms and the changes it has for our lives
Continuing our series exploring the great commission - Pastor Sammy unpacks what a disciple is and encourages us to be both seeking it create disciples around us as well as being disciples ourselves.
As we spend the start of 2022 in the Great Commission, our Pastor John Perry looks at how the great commission broadens our horizons, sending as it does to all the nations with the hope of Jesus.
As we spend the start of 2022 in the Great Commission, our Pastor Sammy Davies looks at how the great commission should shape our expectations and objectives in gathering together on Sundays.
As we spend the start of 2022 in the Great Commission, our Pastor Sammy Davies looks at how we need to look to Jesus and see how great he is.
As we spend the start of 2022 in the Great Commission, our Pastor Sammy Davies looks at how Jesus' followers are those who hear first the invitation. Jesus and then his instruction. How can we fan the flame in our own hearts and spread the fire of His good news?
As we spend the start of 2022 in the Great Commission, our Pastor Sammy Davies looks at how Jesus' followers are those who hear their master's voice and obey.
A few closing thoughts from the unexpected P.S. in the book of Ruth - from Pastor Sammy Davies
Our penultimate look at Ruth 4 - preached by Pastor Sammy Davies (taken from our Sunday Service)
Our final instalment looking back at James' epistle from the New Testament - Matt Bownds once again, this time rounding up the whole of the letter - revealing the importance of knowing, responding and living according to the good news about Jesus Christ.
Why do you deserve love and kindsness? Who would you show love and kindness towards?
Pastor John Perry explores both these questions as he opens up Ruth 2
In our penultimate sermon looking back at our time together in James' epistle - Pastor Matt Bownds leads us to reflect on the power and importance of prayer in the lives of all believers
How does it feel to celebrate Christmas in a world full of aching? To feast and exchange gifts when so many are going without? Advent is a call to ache while we wait for our hope to be realised.
Ruth 1 shows us what to do in the aching and where to pursue hope.
This week "from the Archives" is current Pastor, Sammy Davies - continuing our exploration of James. This week we approach the end ... not of James' letter - but the end of this age & Christ's return. Far from being something that strikes fear we should be able to approach with excitement and joy.
In this weeks sermon, taken from our Sunday Service, Pastor John Perry considers the choice that confronts us all and the future it ushers in. Are we ready to put our time in His hands?
This week "from the Archives" is current Pastor, Sammy Davies - continuing our exploration of James as we venture into the latter half of the letter. In it we encounter 3 wars we all face when our gaze drops from Christ.
In this weeks sermon, taken from our Remembrance Day Sunday Service, Pastor Sammy Davies confronts the confusing teaching that Jesus, Prince of Peace, brings division.
This week "from the Archives" is current Pastor, Sammy Davies - continuing our exploration of James chapter 3 and the interplay between our beliefs, our professions and our lives.
In this weeks sermon, taken from our Sunday Service, Pastor John Perry looks at the miraculous healing of a woman found in Luke 13 and unpacks the freedom that coming to Jesus should bring.
This weeks 'From the Archives' sees our former Pastor, Matt Bownds, continues in James into chapter 3 and some famous teachings on the power of speech and 'taming the tongue.'
In this weeks sermon, taken from our Sunday Service, Pastor John Perry considers Jesus' call on each of our lives, His imminent return - and poses the question "Are we ready?"
In this weeks sermon, taken from our Sunday Service, Pastor Sammy Davies looks at Jesus warning about greed, a story about a rich 'fool' and what it exposes about how we view the world and our place in it.
This weeks 'From the Archives' sees Pastor Sammy continue in James chapter 2 and an exploration of the different types of faith we might possess.
Turns out there are 3 discussed and James is keen for us to have one type in particular.
In this weeks sermon, taking from our Sunday Service, Pastor Sammy Davies looks at Jesus' sorrowful words towards the Pharisees and teachers of the law - and his encouragement to those who confess him.
As we stop to give thanks, to celebrate the good things our God has given us, Pastor John Perry takes us to Luke 12 to explore living in a world in which our kind and loving father cares for us.
This weeks 'From the Archives" in James sees Pastor Sammy Davies tackling the final few verses of chapter 1 and what it means for us to be good listeners (hint - it's better than that ... God speaks!)
This weeks 'From the Archives' sees Matt Bownds, former pastor at ammanfordchurch.com, dive into James chapter 2 to explore how Jesus changes all our social structures and makes the church a place in which everyone can be a favourite.
In this weeks sermon, taking from our Sunday Service, Pastor Sammy Davies looks at Jesus' warnings to those who would hear but not listen to what Jesus has to say - and unpacks 3 lessons we should learn as a result.
From the Archives - This week, as we continue to listen to wisdom from James, Matt Bownds is back (in a manner of speaking) to help us explain a life of trials and tests in the context of a God who gives good gifts.
This weeks sermon comes from Pastor John Perry as he explores Jesus teaching on power & security in the Christians life and where we look for protection
From the Archives - As we start a new term, studying the book of James together in our Rooted groups, we are digging up an old series preached by our Pastor Sammy Davies and former Pastor Matt Bownds.
This sermon, "Wise Up" lays some of the foundations for our time together in James and helps us to set expectations for we might encounter and learn.
In 1 Peter 2 the scattered church are given some wonderful old names for the people of God. Because of the grace we've been shown we've been given a new identity ... and that means living in a radically different sort of way.
What do the Exodus and the death/resurrection have to do with us today in our struggles?
Taken from our Sunday Service - from Pastor John Perry exploring Christ' commission to his followers to take the good news out and prepare the way for his coming.
Where would you describe Jesus as 'heading'? What was his destination? And what was the route he was going to take? Does Jesus' journey have any implications for our own?
A sermon reflecting on the recent celebration of Pentecost and why it should be an encouragement/challenge to the church
Jesus prepared His followers for life after His death - it looks a lot like the life that Jesus lived (and died)
No matter who you are or what you're facing - in these 4 stories we learn that Jesus is the one we can come to
If you had a 5-minute audience with God - what would be the first thing out of your mouth?
We often note what Jesus did and pay attention to what He said ... how often do we stop to ponder how He feels?
Taken from our Sunday Service - a sermon on faith from friend of Ammanford Church, Steffan Jones
A sermon for Good Friday reflecting on the biblical theme of exile, being away from home and how the events of the first Good Friday bring us hope
By Pastor Sammy Davies
why doesn't life always go the way we want ... or expect? why is that sometimes, in spite of the hurts, bad situations turn out for our good?
What is Jesus' counter kingdom all about?
do you like being told what to do? do you like being told what NOT to do? when you think of rules do you think of restrictions or freedom? what's your gut instinct towards those who implement rules? can Jesus 'break' the rules and still be good?
We engage with 2 stories of Jesus 'breaking the rules' on the sabbath and take the opportunity to explore the true heart of God when He commands.
A storm was brewing - Many people encountered Jesus and trusted in Him fully - others were confused by Him and opposed him.
What do we trust in? Where do we assign our value? What does Jesus say about being half hearted versus 'all in'
how do we view ourselves? how do we view Jesus? how does Jesus view us and him?
How those questions are answered affects how we live our whole lives. In Luke 5 we meet 4 people who encounter Jesus and find out they've failed to see the whole picture.
Was Jesus really the one that had long been promised to come and put things right? Can we really believe the claims that are made about him ... especially if they depend on miracles?
In this sermon, taken from our Sunday Service, Pastor Sammy Davies explores the second half of Luke 4
Jesus comes from the long line of pretty significant people. But he's also one of us - so why is Jesus so important? Why is Jesus being so much more than simply one of us so important? What difference does that make in our lives?
In this sermon, taken from our Sunday Service, Pastor John Perry explores the latter half of Luke 3 and the famous story of Jesus' temptations in the wilderness.
Are you ready? Are you prepared to meet Jesus? If Jesus did come back right now - would you be prepared?
In this sermon, taken from our Sunday Service, Pastor John Perry explores Luke 3 and John the Baptists call to 'get ready' for the coming Christ.
we can sense when things aren't quite right - we also have a sense of how things ought to go - Luke's retelling of Jesus' story will often jar with our expectations - but that's exactly how it should be
Can we have confidence in the things we've heard about Jesus? Can we trust the Bible as a record of who he is, what he did and how he feels towards us?
Taken from our Sunday Service - sermon by Pastor John Perry
A sermon by Pastor Sammy Davies. Jesus commissions His followers to be lights to the world - living lives and speaking in His name.
We make him more fully known when our lives and speech are full of him.
A sermon by Pastor Sammy Davies. God desires to be known and we know him through his revelation of himself.
We know him now most fully through Jesus - that's why we're all about knowing Jesus and being transformed by that knowledge.
It's universally agreed that at the start of every year a change needs to be made - a change in us, and a change in our world.
But why? What's wrong? And can we really change?
In this sermon our pastor, Sammy Davies, explores the change that comes from being in Jesus and the planning for growth we all must do.
A Christmas Day Address from our Pastor, John Perry.
Merry Christmas & God Bless you all x
A sermon, by Pastor Sammy Davies, on Psalm one hundred thirty one.
Taken from our Sunday Service.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Jamie Hurd, explores Psalm 3 and clinging to a shield when enemies advance.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Pastor John Perry, explores Psalm 22 and finding light in dark times.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Pastor Sammy Davies, explores Psalm 100 and why we should be a people who seek out opportunities to be grateful.
Also contains musical performances from church members and Sound of Wales.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Pastor Sammy Davies, explores Psalm 103 and life with Jesus is gain for us ... a gain we should look to pass on.
Also contains details of how to join with our church in sponsoring children in poverty through COMPASSION.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Pastor John Perry, explores Psalm 27 and the movement we can make from places of fear to places of hope when we trust in Jesus.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Pastor Sammy Davies, explores Psalm 42 and the freedom we have to be open and honest with ... bit how we have to move past that into greater truth.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Pastor Sammy Davies, explores Psalm 33 and the comparison it makes between the great God of the universe and little, lowly old us.
Taken from our Sunday Service this sermon, by Pastor Sammy Davies, explores the happiness that's on offer to us in Psalm 1. In it we're challenged to shift our priorities and our perspective and to focus on the one thing that endures.
In this 'stand-alone' sermon our Pastor, John Perry, explores John chapter 4 and the encounter Jesus had with a Samaritan woman at a well.
TRUESTORY // The End Of The Story - Why the story of God & Us is the truest ever told.
Some people think that the story of the Bible, the story of God and Us and Jesus is a fairytale for those who want to avoid the harsh realities of life in our world.
In this series, we explore how the story of Jesus makes sense of the world we live in - more sense than any other story ever told.
In this instalment, we explore the end of the story - does it reach it's conclusion in our forgiveness? Or is Jesus still at work writing a better ending?
TRUESTORY // The Hero Dies - Why the story of God & Us is the truest ever told.
Some people think that the story of the Bible, the story of God and Us and Jesus is a fairytale for those who want to avoid the harsh realities of life in our world.
In this series, we explore how the story of Jesus makes sense of the world we live in - more sense than any other story ever told.
In this instalment, we explore the author of all things, Jesus, being himself erased. Why did it happen? And what difference should it make to us?
TRUESTORY // Trouble in Paradise - Why the story of God & Us is the truest ever told.
Some people think that the story of the Bible, the story of God and Us and Jesus is a fairytale for those who want to avoid the harsh realities of life in our world.
In this series, we explore how the story of Jesus makes sense of the world we live in - more sense than any other story ever told.
In this instalment, we explore the true story of Jesus' claim to be God - Did he actually claim it and what difference does it make to us?
TRUESTORY // Trouble in Paradise - Why the story of God & Us is the truest ever told.
Some people think that the story of the Bible, the story of God and Us and Jesus is a fairytale for those who want to avoid the harsh realities of life in our world.
In this series, we explore how the story of Jesus makes sense of the world we live in - more sense than any other story ever told.
In this instalment, we explore the true story of trouble in paradise - of why the world looks and feels so broken - and what God is doing about it.
TRUESTORY // Meet The Author - Why the story of God & Us is the truest ever told.
Some people think that the story of the Bible, the story of God and Us and Jesus is pretty far fetched. Many people think it's impossible to believe while others think it has nothing to do with them.
In this series, we explore how the story of Jesus makes sense of the world we live in - more sense than any other story ever told.
In this instalment, we explore how the author of life has written himself into our stories.
TRUESTORY // The Ancient Story - Why the story of God & Us is the truest ever told.
Some people think that the story of the Bible, the story of God and Us and Jesus is pretty far fetched. Many people think it's impossible to believe while others think it has nothing to do with them.
In this series, we explore how the story of Jesus makes sense of the world we live in - more sense than any other story ever told.
In this instalment, we explore belief in the book.
Our Questions // Jesus' Answer
The questions we ask today aren't all that different from the questions people actually asked Jesus - in this series we're diving into those questions, Jesus' answers and what it all means for us?
This week we explore an interaction Jesus had when he'd welcomed someone into his group that the religious authorities didn't like. The question could be put, "Can Christianity REALLY be for Everyone?"
Our Questions // Jesus' Answer
The questions we ask today aren't all that different from the questions people actually asked Jesus - in this series we're diving into those questions, Jesus' answers and what it all means for us?
This week we explore an interaction Jesus had his disciples and the question of clarity in his teaching, which might put as, "Why doesn't God make it more obvious?"
Our Questions // Jesus' Answer
The questions we ask today aren't all that different from the questions people actually asked Jesus - in this series we're diving into those questions, Jesus' answers and what it all means for us?
This week we explore an interaction Jesus had his disciples and the question, which might put as, "What's so great about eternal life?"
Our Questions // Jesus' Answer The questions we ask today aren't all that different from the questions people actually asked Jesus - in this series we're diving into those questions, Jesus' answers and what it all means for us?
This week we explore an interaction Jesus had with a teacher of the law and his question, which might put as, "Who is my neighbour?"
Our Questions // Jesus' Answer
The questions we ask today aren't all that different from the questions people actually asked Jesus - in this series we're diving into those questions, Jesus' answers and what it all means for us?
This week we explore an interaction Jesus had with a teacher of the law and his question, which might put as, "What's the meaning of life?"
Our Questions // Jesus' Answer
The questions we ask today aren't all that different from the questions people actually asked Jesus - in this series we're diving into those questions, Jesus' answers and what it all means for us?
This week we explore the healing of a man born blind from birth and the question from the disciples, "Who sinned that this man was born blind?" or as we might put it, "Am I being punished?"
Our Questions // Jesus' Answer
The questions we ask today aren't all that different from the questions people actually asked Jesus - in this series we're diving into those questions, Jesus' answers and what it all means for us?
This week we explore the calming of the storm and Jesus' answering His disciple's question, "Don't you care that we're going to die?"
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is. We continue with the request - "Forgive Us Our Debts" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is. We continue with the request - "Forgive Us Our Debts" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is. We continue with the request - "Daily Bread" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is. We continue with the request - "On Earth as it is in Heaven" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is. We continue with the third request - "Thy Will Be Done" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is. We continue with the second request - "Thy Kingdom Come" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
Easter Sunday is the highlight of the Christian year - in this sermon our Pastor, John Perry, explores why it's so important and the hope that Jesus' resurrection gives us all.
Listen again to our Good Friday service - hosted by Pastors John Perry and Sammy Davies - exploring some familiar Easter passages and considering what they mean for us today.
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is. We continue with the first request - "Hallowed be Your name" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
Jesus taught His disciples, and us, how to pray. That prayer was not only a pattern to follow but an invitation to live in the world as it truly is.
We begin with the opening address - "Our Father" and consider what this teaches us about the world as it really is.
As we continue our series in 1 Corinthians Jamie takes us to an important passage which demonstrates how we make decisions in all of our lives. What place do the glory of God and the best interest of others have in our decision making and our actions? Jamie helps us to see that as in all things, Jesus makes all the difference
As we continue through our 1 Corinthians series, Sammy takes us into the weird and wonderful world of food sacrificed to idols. Only, it's not what you think! As with all of 1 Corinthians there's so much more going on and always something valuable for us to learn.
As we continue our 1 Corinthians series, John helps us work through the next few chapters. These passages are perhaps uncomfortable to deal with, but they are in the Bible for a reason; therefore to know Jesus more we must also look to understand the difficult passages as well as the easier ones.
This morning it was great to have Steffan Morris with us helping us know Jesus more and thinking through the new identity we have in Jesus.
As we continue our 1 Corinthians series, John helps us work through the next few chapters. These passages are perhaps uncomfortable to deal with, but they are in the Bible for a reason; therefore to know Jesus more we must also look to understand the difficult passages as well as the easier ones.
Back this week in 1 Corinthians to continue our series, Sammy helps us look again at the first four chapters as we continue to see the choices Christ Followers are called to make.
Sammy starts off our new series in 1 Corinthians this morning by bringing up a couple of points from the first 4 chapters. We hope that throughout our new series you are able to know Jesus more through what is taught, and as a result make Jesus more known as you live for Him in your community.
This week we're thinking about discipleship - what it is and how it looks for us as Christ-followers in 21st century Wales.
To know Jesus more and make Jesus more known - that's the goal for 2020 here in Ammanford church; using the next 4 weeks to draw out how we can be people of MORE, not just this year but on into the future as well.
To know Jesus more and make Jesus more known - that's the goal for 2020 here in Ammanford church; using the next 4 weeks to draw out how we can be people of MORE, not just this year but on into the future as well.
To know Jesus more and make Jesus more known - that's the goal for 2020 here in Ammanford church; using the 4 weeks this month to draw out how we can be people of MORE, not just this year but on into the future as well.
To know Jesus more and make Jesus more known - that's the goal for 2020 here in Ammanford church; using the next 4 weeks to draw out how we can be people of MORE, not just this year but on into the future as well.
Coming third in our Advent series of 2019 we're looking at Joy - is it just seasonal, or is it something we can think and aim for all year round?
This week Rhodri brings us the second of our Advent series, and we're thinking more about peace - what it is, how to get it and why to share it
Have you ever thought about what hope means for a Christ follower? What it looks like day-to-day to live a hope-filled life? This morning starts our Advent series with a look into Hope and why it's key to Christian faith.
As we draw our time in 2 Samuel to a close, Sammy has some thoughts to round out the series looking back at the very first chapter and as well as the final one.
What would your ideal leader look like? I think we could all agree that someone who is 'one of us', fair, approachable and responsible would be the best foundation for them. This morning we're looking at David, his life and the pattern he shows of good leadership.
After so much has happened in the life of King David, it would appear that events are leading toward an end. This morning Sammy helps us explore the ending of David's reign and how he reacts in various circumstances, leading to what we can learn from him.
David is on his way back into Jerusalem and to his rightful place as King over Israel now that Absalom has been killed; yet his response is most unusual for what he has just been through.
This morning John walks us through David's journey and shows us the different way he chooses to go, and why.
We're back in 2 Samuel again this week, looking at the next portion about King David and his son Absalom.
What do you do when things go wrong? A better question might be: what do you do when things turn against you?
After his sin against God with Bathsheba, David was told he would be judged by God; this morning we see that begin to unfold. However, in David we see a change of heart and a few lessons for us to learn today.
Already over half-way through the book, Sammy brings us another thought from the book of 2 Samuel; this morning thinking about what it means to be pardoned, and how it is even more than simply being forgiven.
If you're at all familiar with King David in the Bible then no doubt you've heard of his interactions with Bathsheba. This week, as Sammy opens up these chapters to us, we're encouraged to properly think things through and be reminded that despite man's sin, God still loves.
This week John takes us through chapters eight through ten and helps us see more of how Jesus is forecast through all of the Old Testament.
"All Change - All Change!"
Now that David has been established as King over Israel he begins to make some changes; however, it's sad to say that they aren't all for the better.
This morning Sammy takes us through these chapters and shows some of David's better changes as well as those God is displeased with; then helps us see how it impacts on us today.
It was great to have Luke Gratton from Compassion UK with us this week, helping us learn more about the charity as well as learning more from the book of 2 Samuel.
This week John is helping us explore more of 2 Samuel, and seeing how the story continues on from the first book but with somewhat of a twist
Although continuing on the story from 1 Samuel, the book of 2 Samuel begins with a change of the kingship - from Saul to David.
We pray that as we look further into the life and lessons from 2 Samuel that God will speak to you and help you learn more about how to follow him in the 21st century.
What would your perfect world look like?
This morning as Sammy helps us see more clearly what the Bible has to say, and why it is wonderful news for us.
Planning & waiting - two words synonymous with weddings, as well as the stress of ensuring all is in place for the big day.
Unlike the other gospel accounts, John's account introduces us to Jesus at a wedding, something not particularly exciting in the grander scheme of His life. Yet what we learn about Jesus from the wedding and His actions there reveals a lot, especially for us today.
What would you take with you if you were going on a 70 year holiday? How would you plan for leaving your home for such a long period?
In the Bible quite a number of the Old Testament books cover the Exile of God's people from the promised land. This morning we'll be considering what it means to be an exile and how it applies to the church today, not just the Israelites all those years ago.
Even a quick glance through the Bible and you cannot easily miss the fact that mountains are a common feature in the stories it tells: Moses went up a couple, God met various people on them, Jesus not only went up them to pray but famously taught the sermon on the MOUNT(AIN).
This week John brings us to the Exodus of Israelites from Egypt and Mount Sinai helping us see that God meeting with Moses all those years ago has something important for us to learn all these years later.
Starting off our summer series entitled: Wish You were Here John helps us think through the Christian message by means of linking it to the beach.
Wrapping up our 'God is' series this morning, Sammy helps us consider what the Christ-Follower's response ought to be when we see more of Jesus character.
In the last sermon, John had us thinking about the just-ness of God: His need to be 100% just 100% of the time. If we hold that up on its own it paints a false picture of God, one of the other key components of God is His Grace. But what does that mean?
This morning Jamie walks us through the Grace of God - what it means, what it looks like, and why it's such good news for you and me.
Life isn't fair. When did you last think this? What caused the thought to leap across your mind?
There is plenty in the world to which we would voice this statement, and much more we would say is totally unjust - we want justice!
John shows us this morning how God is fair, and it may have greater meaning that you've ever thought about before! Prepare for some heart surgery as you listen about our Fair God and what that means for you and me.
Time is a funny thing - so much, if not all, of life is guided and controlled by it. Eternity is a confusing thing - trying to comprehend something never having a beginning or an ending; never changing, not even a little bit. That is eternity.
The God of the Bible is an Eternal God. One who has always existed and will always exist. Rhodri helps us this morning to see how that this mind-bending truth about God is a huge comfort and encouragement to Christ-Followers.
God is not some kind of divine dictator, instructing without care nor compassion those beneath him. Rather He is one with whom we are invited to have a relationship, to know him and become more like him.
This morning Peter helps us to see that the Lord is relational in many ways, and that ought to have an impact on how we as the church of the 21st century live today.
Knowledge is not Wisdom.
Controversial thought? Maybe.
Let John explain as he guides us through the importance of a God who doesn't second guess himself, but rather who is the foundation of all wisdom. We'll see how this is revealed in two sources as well as seeing what it means for us today; then what it ultimately calls us to do.
Where would you say God is in the world today? Are we just waiting for His return, book-ended between His action?
Sammy helps us see in truer colour how that God is very active in the world today - even empowering that action through His church. Hopefully after hearing more of our active God you'll see that right here and now we, the church, are called to be active too.
One of the facts about humanity is that we are not in control - things happen to all of us in life of which we say 'why did that happen?' or perhaps 'why me?' To claim total authority over all aspects of ones life would be a great untruth.
This morning as Sammy opens Isaiah 46 to us, we can take great encouragement that someone is in control, and that our best interests are on his heart.
Compassion - something everyone wants to receive, but not always on the top of our 'to-do' list.
This morning Wyn Jones challenges us about how we value, see and act compassionately; especially if we claim to be Christ-Followers. With plenty to chew over this morning we hope you'll be left uncomfortably challenged by what Wyn had to share.
Who do you trust? Why do you trust them - what helps you make that decision?
God doesn't just ask us to know Him, but asks that we also trust Him. However, he doesn't leave us without reason for doing so.
This morning John helps us see that God shows through word and deed how trustworthy He is; and what choice that leaves us with.
We despise ignorance - spending time, money and emotions pursuing knowledge. Yet only God is all knowing and all understanding. This should make a big difference in how we live our lives.
For many the feeling of loneliness is all too common. Perhaps for others it's the realisation of our sinfulness that makes us think we're now excluded from following Jesus.
This morning John opens Psalm 27 to us and helps us to see that whether we feel alone in the world or that we've cut ourselves off from God, there is hope. There is good news to be heard!
In life there are three ways that we know things: see it (observation), learn it (speculation) or be told it (revelation). When it comes to how we know about God there is no difference. We see Him in the created world around Him, we can ponder His being in what we see but above all we learn of Him through what He tells us through His Word the Bible.
This morning Sammy starts us off in a new series of looking at what God shows us about Himself, things that God is.
Today we looked at how God is Global/Galactic!
The culmination of Mark's Gospel account for his readers, we see the full purpose for Christ coming to Earth, and that His death was not the end.
This morning Sammy takes us through what happened on that first Easter Sunday, and reminds us of what it means for us as Christ's Followers 2000 years later!
How would you react if someone told you that the thing you hold most dear in life, that defines who you are, was going to be totally removed?
In Mark 13 we see just that happen, and yet in Jesus we see an answer that you might not expect (upside down Kingdom - remember!)
If you could ask God one question what would it be?
Throughout Mark's Gospel account the religious leaders of the day asked Jesus far more than just one question, and today Sammy will be chatting to us about three in particular.
This morning we see Jesus dealing with men who don't really want to know the answer to their question, they simply want to trip up Jesus to arrest Him. Yet, a third man asks a genuine question, and receives a genuine answer - one that applies to us as much in 2019 as it did to him in 1 A.D.
This week it was great to have John Perry preaching on Mark 12 as we looked into the parable of the Tenants, helping us to see more about what it means for us today in the twenty-first century.
Who are you to tell me what to do?
It can sometimes feel like all children ever do is question authority. Yet they aren't the only ones. If we're honest everyone can think of when they've thought this very question.
Sammy takes us through an occurrence of such a question, where authority is questioned and decisions have to be made.
This week we're still in Mark's eleventh chapter as we see Jesus enter the temple at Jerusalem after speaking to a fig tree in Bethphage. What's the link? Well Sammy helps us see that through reconsidering what we understand as the role of a prophet.
How many times throughout the Gospel of Mark has Jesus done something in the wrong way? At least, not in the way that the crowds expected Him to.
As Jesus begins His final journey up to Jerusalem He is celebrated and lauded as King - rightly so! Yet His triumphal entry to the town is far from the extravagant jubilation that Mark's Roman readers would have expected. So why does Jesus break the mold? Why doesn't He come riding in on a white stallion and declaring His victory?
John helps us to see that Jesus' declaration of His Kingship is not political but extends far beyond that .
Stress is something that most of us have to face on a regular occurrence, if not a daily struggle. What does the Bible have to say about it? How can God possibly offer hope into this situation?
Steffan Jones was with us this morning, helping us see how God not only deals with the stress but also invites us to attend a banquet that He has put on.
As we've been building across chapters eight, nine and ten of Mark's Gospel, Jesus continually speaks of His betrayal, condemnation, death and resurrection. Yet there is something that is noticeably absent.
Why?
Why is any of this going to happen to Him? This morning Sammy takes us through what it is that Mark wants us to see through his account of Jesus' life, and how that should make a difference in our life also.
"What do you want me to do for you? - Jesus asked this question on two occasions in chapter ten and received a different answer both times. This morning we're looking to see what the right and wrong answers were, as well as how this question should be leading our thinking as we follow Christ.
This week we're introduced to a man for whom following Jesus comes at too high of a price. For him, what he holds onto is of more value than what Jesus offers.
What are the things that we hold onto, and which as a result, stop us from following Jesus? What are those things which hinder our Christ-following and sacrificial living?
Jamie chats with us this morning about how to properly and fully follow God. Why it is good news that it's impossible to get into God's kingdom, and how it's even better news of One who can do the impossible.
Jesus' ministry on Earth wasn't just for the adults. His message of forgiveness wasn't just for those above a certain age. He wanted everyone, regardless of age, to know His message and be a follower of Him.
John helps us consider how we can better bring children to Jesus, even if we don't have any of our own. As well as thinking about what it looks like to have child-like faith.
To wrap up our (from the ARCHIVES) series "Dummies Guide to Discipleship" it's none other than Matt Bownds - exploring how giving is an outworking of our understanding of the Gospel.
What does it mean for someone to be the greatest? Is it even possible for Christ-Followers to consider themselves great?
When Jesus brings up the subject in Mark 9 His answer is not what we may expect. It certainly isn't what the world around us tells us to expect.
When you've got something good it's worth sharing. In this (from the ARCHIVES) episode continuing our series "Dummies Guide to Discipleship" Peter Hallam speaks to us about sharing our faith.
How do we walk through the 'valley of the shadow of death' that the Psalmist speaks of in Psalm 23? In Mark 9 we read of a mountaintop experience which is quickly followed by difficulty in the valley below.
What do these two passages have in common? What does it mean for us to Follow Christ through all of our life?
John Perry walks us through the passage this morning, helping us better grasp the truths within, and applying them to our lives as Christ-Followers of the 21st century.
At the midpoint in our (from the ARCHIVES) series called "The Dummies Guide to Discipleship" our former pastor Jonathan shares about the importance of prayer and how a right view of our relationship with God through Jesus changes how we come in prayer
What does it truly mean to follow Christ?
Whether you've been a Christian a for long time or not very long at all; this is a question that at some time or another will crop up. Thankfully there is an answer!
Sammy helps us look at what Jesus means when He tells us to follow Him - how that it radically transforms our lives, and not just in the ways we might initially think.
Dummies Guide to Discipleship (from the ARCHIVES) and this time it's 'Bible Study' - here's Pastor Sammy Davies with some helpful thinking about what it is that we're seeking to achieve when we come to the Bible. To finish off Sammy shares 9 practical tips on how to get into the Bible and how to get the most out of it.
The prospect of a new year can offer up multiple expectations and emotions as it begins - for some they relish the thought of 365 unwritten days in which to make their own, to write their best story yet. For others, that's 365 days in which things could go wrong, or into which they're trailing baggage from 2018.
Regardless of how you have started the year, and look out on the incoming 12 months, the message we find in the Bible from God ought to help us face down whatever may lie ahead.
Wyn helps us to see that the Christian is called to trust God and not be afraid. If the One that controls it all is telling us to trust Him and not be afraid, then surely we ought to listen!
A new year, a new (from the ARCHIVES) series - The Dummies Guide to Discipleship. And first up is our very own Wyn Jones teaching in the welcoming Grace of Jesus.
Something (from the ARCHIVES) to tide you over in that weird period between Christmas Day and New Years - a short reflection on 2 of the names of Jesus in the New Testament and what they should mean for us.
In this shorter (from the ARCHIVES) Christmas special, our Pastor - Sammy Davies, considers Jospeh's response and Mary's response to the good news delivered to them by angels. Questions is, how do you respond to the good news of Christmas?
What do priests have to do with advent? Don't they belong in the Old Testament? How are the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Priesthood connected?
Jamie Hurd guides us through Hebrews 5&7 as we consider what it means to be a priest today, and how our understanding should have an impact in all of our life.
Back again, exploring what makes Christmas so wonderful, it's Jonathan (from the ARCHIVES). Love - a big word which comes into wonderful focus each December. Dive in, enjoy.
This *special episode (from the ARCHIVE) is the first of 4 Christmas themed messages. Yep, it's Christmas. Get with it. Prepare your head and heart to make the most of celebrating Jesus' coming in flesh.
When someone says advent, what do you think of? For many it's probably calendars with little doors hiding chocolate, or some other little goodie.
Yet the historical creation of Advent is for a far more important reason. This Sunday Rhodri Darcy helped us to examine one aspect of Advent, that being the prophetic foretelling of Jesus birth 700 years beforehand.
perhaps most importantly of all, Rhodri helps us grasp why Advent is important for us today, and how that it isn't only to look back and remember. Listen on to hear how Advent can and should impact all of us for the years ahead also.
Life is up. Life is down. And if you've ever read the Psalms you'll see that the Bible is happy to go both ways with us. In this final (from the Archive) instalment of our series looking over Psalm 119; Jonathan encourages us that the Bible is a book worth continuing with through all seasons.
It's said that children ask the most questions; whilst that may be true, we all ask a range of questions constantly. Yet the question that Jesus puts to the disciples is the most important of all. Having spent the previous eight chapters building up to this point, it's a question we need to consider - Who do you say that Jesus is? This week John helps us to unpack the question and presents some evidence and points for consideration before encouraging us all to provide an answer.
Because the Bible tells me so? But can we really trust what it says? What's the basis for believeing its truthfulness? In this (from the Archives) episode Jonathan challenges us to look in the right places to establish our certainty in the Bible's authority.
How do we reach those beyond our normal means? How do we share the good news of the gospel with others of a different culture or language?
In today's passage John helps us see how Jesus broke through another barrier and reached someone with His message of forgiveness and freedom.
Suffering is a reality - for you now or at some point in the future. So we have to deal with it. This week (from the Archive) Jonathan shows us where the Bible points us for the medicine we need in life's dark times.
This week we begin chapter seven of Mark's gospel; looking at the stark contrast between how Jesus is approached and viewed.
On one hand you have a group of religious leaders whose approach is that of seeking tradition and to boast of their goodness and worth that enables them to come to God (or so they think). Yet contrasting them we see a woman who by social standards at the time was nothing, who had no religious standing yet who comes to Jesus and finds help.
By exploring the contrast in these two groups it opens us to thinking about how we honestly think about God, and what we're really longing for in the world today.
Psalm 119 is back baby! And this week (from the Archive) we are trying to figure out what sort of book the Bible is - how do we understand it - because that will effect how we read it and what we take away from it. JT is on duty once again with the help of some of our youngest members. Dive in.
Hyperlinks are those love 'em or hate 'em points usually within a passage that enable you to jump to somewhere else - be it another place, passage, theme or topic.
With the structure of the Bible being such, it's impossible to read a passage of the Bible and not have it linked to something somewhere else. After all, the whole book is about God's rescue plan for humanity.
This week Sammy helps us see the importance of setting these links aside so as to grasp the fullness of the passage we're reading; whilst also the necessity of using these 'hyperlinks' throughout the Bible to gain a fuller picture of who Jesus is.
Long. That's one way to describe Psalm 119 - the longest chapter in Scripture to be precise! In this latest instalment (from the Archives) former Pastor Jonathan Thomas starts a short series exploring and experiencing the Bible with Psalm 119 as our spring board. To kick things off, here's a look at how we can love the Bible and in so doing love God too! Enjoy
If we're all honest to ourselves we'll confess that we like to be the final authority on our own life. To have someone else telling us what to do and how to act is not something many would claim to enjoy. In Mark 6 we see two cases for authority: one party claims a title that isn't his and wields a power that many would recognise and agree to. The other has a true title and yet his position of authority is the on that is questioned. Sammy helps us today walk through these two scenarios and see what the difference is and why that matters to us.
Throughout His time on Earth, the Lord Jesus taught many things, and often using parables to do so. This week John helps us examine one that perhaps Christians are very familiar with. What does Jesus mean when He talks about the seed? Who are the people planting & harvesting?
The end (of this series) is nigh. Jonathan concludes (from the Archives) our time in 1 Thessalonians looking at Paul's concluding remarks. Sometimes the ends of the NT letters can seem a bit random. But in this instance Jonathan helps us to see that in saying goodbye Paul shares a quick vision for everything the church could be! Dive in and see what we're on about.
If we're true to ourselves we all have fears in our lives - some rational, others not so. It will be no surprise that in Jesus' time, men and women had fears too. In this podcast Sammy takes us through four fearful groups of people in Mark 5 and how that, upon encountering Jesus, nothing was the same again.
The Second Coming - now that we have your attention; where do you stand? Excited to talk about it? An extremist who won't stop talking about it?! Or an eye roller who doesn't want to hear it?
Jonathan takes us (from the Archives) through what Paul and others say on the topic and hopefully leaves us Encouraged by it! Dive in.
Jonathan Thomas has the grim pleasure of helping us think through death in our latest (from the Archives) episode. From a Christian point of view death is both a terribly painful experience and a joy. How can that be? Dive in for JT's dulcet tones and an encouraging explanation from 1 Thessalonians.
What do you think about Jesus' claim to have set people free? He's come with a bold declaration about himself and backed it up with amazing healings & exorcisms - but is that enough to convince us?
In this sermon Sammy explores the different ways a few of the characters in Mark chapter 3 responded to Jesus and the good news for those who follow him into freedom.
Sammy's back for our latest (from the Archives) sermon in the series looking at encouragement from 1 Thessalonians. In this sermon Sammy looks at the love hate relationship we have with work - why is that? Dive in to find out.
Throughout his time on Earth, Jesus made some very big claims about who He was and what His relationship with God the Father was like. Today we read another of those claims, this time calling Himself the Son of Man - but what does that really mean, and why were the Pharisees so riled up about it? Above all, what does that have to do with us today?
In our latest from the Archive sermon current pastor Sammy Davies steps in to help us consider Paul's attitude towards the Thessalonian church as modelling God's own attitude towards us. When we realise how God treats us in Jesus we might just start treating each other differently too!
As we've journeyed through Mark's account of Jesus' life, so far we've seen how amazing He is - healing people and teaching. For the most part no one has questioned Him on His healings or what He has said. That is, until now. Mark chapter two sees the beginning of Jesus' teachings and actions being questioned. This week we see a paralysed man healed, but that is not the key point. Through what He says in this event Jesus leaves everyone with a decision to make - we've reached a fork in the road and have to choose which path we'll go down.
Jonathan continues in 1 Thessalonians (as part of from the Archive) and shares how understanding Jesus for ourselves should give us great encouragement in our evangelistic efforts. If we're scared to share Jesus and His gospel then we need to figure it out more clearly for ourselves.
What does it mean to be outside the camp? What even is the camp? This week we had Sammy taking us through what it means to be one who includes those that are on the outside. A sign of genuine Christ-followers is that they are willing to give of their own time/possessions to aid those whom society has regarded helpless.
Matt Bownds carries us forward in our next (from the Archives) sermon travelling through 1 Thessalonians. Matt highlights the importance of having, and being, good role models in the Christian life. Ideas are taught, by examples are caught.
In this week's study of Mark's gospel we get to both hear Jesus speak and watch Him act. Jesus is king with more than just words, His actions proving the Godly authority He has to teach. Our response to the king should be one of repentance, belief, following and fishing.
Jonathan kicks off our series (from the Archives) in 1 Thessalonians by asking the question 'What does true encouragement look like?" Is it platitudes? Is it half truths? Is it comforting lies? Or is it the true truth about Jesus? No prizes for guessing where he lands!
With the beginning of a new term, so too are we beginning a new series of studies on Sunday mornings. Throughout the next few months we'll be delving into Mark's Gospel account, exploring its meaning and relevance to us in the 21st century.
This week Pastor John starts us off looking at "Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God" through three aspects of Christ's person.
Grandpa Joe asks: If God loves us, shouldn't He be doing something to help?
In this sermon Pastor Sammy looks at the superficial nature of our 'just get rid of suffering' solution and explores the way God does deal with the darkness through Jesus.
Grandpa Joe asks: Why is the world filled with so much hurt, suffering and sadness.
In this sermon Pastor Sammy looks at the different ways the Bible describes humanities darkness - and how each of the words used speaks to a different aspect of how we each individually, and corporately, do our bit to fill the world with hurt.
Grandpa Joes asks: If God has done what He's going to do to put things right in the world, does that mean this is as good as it's going to get?
In this sermon Pastor Peter looks at the Bible's vision of a renewed heaven and earth and the call on Christ followers today to start walking towards that perfect place.
Grandpa Joe asks: Why is the world such a big scary place?
In this sermon Pastor Sammy looks at Job 38 to help us to see how big creation is, how small we are in it, but how we can still find peace when we know the creator and sustainer of it all.