Foundation Church Belfast: Recent Episodes
Foundation Church Belfast
Jesus hears about a centurion's Big faith and is amazed at what he encounters. Despite not even seeing Jesus, the centurion believes in him based on what he has heard.
We too can share in this big faith when we:
- Humbly approach Jesus
- Recognise the authority of Jesus
- Choose to trust Jesus
When we do, we shall discover a deep and growing faith in Jesus, a faith that sees God move in magnificent ways.
In the words of Smith Wigglesworth:
Only believe, only believe!
All things are possible,
Only believe!
MAIN TEXTLuke 7:1-10
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Jesus gives us his mission statement as he reads from the prophet Isaiah:
‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’
He then demonstrates what this looks like by healing the sick and freeing those oppressed by demonic powers; teaching people about the kingdom of God.
In his calling of Levi, Jesus shows us the pathway to being one of his disciples. It begins with calling, requires a response, and culminates in a mission for each disciple to join.
However, there are also some that refuse the call of Jesus. The Pharisees refuse to accept that Jesus loves the outsiders, the lost, broken and sinful.
In this message, we see the radical call of Jesus to each of us, and hear the challenge to follow him with all we have - it is always worth it!
MAIN TEXTLuke 5:27-32
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
In our series The Spirit of Mission, David Varney highlights three obstructions to the mission of Jesus.
- Sickness
- Demons
- Boundaries
We see how these obstructions were overcome by Jesus, and learn how we too, when faced with obstruction, can minister in Jesus' name.
MAIN TEXTLuke 4:38-44
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Ricky Malone speaks on Why and How We Share the Good News, and Jay Millar shares his story about how Jesus radically transformed his life.
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
As a skilled preacher, the prophet Malachi brings his sermon to a close with a huge challenge to his listeners - the Day of the Lord is coming; how will you experience it?
For some, the Day of the Lord's appearing will be agony; for others, ecstasy. How can two such widely different responses happen on the same day?
Malachi teaches us two methods to help us prepare for the Day of the Lord's coming:
- Remembering;
- Renewal
As we take these methods in hand, we find ourselves praying for God daily renew us, so we can point people to Jesus more powerfully before that great day of his coming.
MAIN TEXTMalachi 4:1-6
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
David unpacks the biblical teaching of the Day of the Lord, using Malachi and the parable of the prodigal son to distinguish three groups to explain how each will face God’s judgment.
- the wicked,
- the religious, and
- the faithful.
Key points include why mere religious practice can be empty, how true faithfulness is shown by fearing and honouring God and by fellowship with other believers, the possibility of repentance for the wicked, and the gospel: Jesus as the faithful substitute who secures mercy for those who trust him.
MAIN TEXTMalachi 3:13-18
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Pastor David, drawing from the last book in the old testament, the book of Malachi - teaches on a well known portion of scripture from chapter 3 emphasizing the Lord's unchanging nature.
He speaks on the call to repentance, and the promise of abundant blessings for the faithful.
This touches on tithing, giving with a joyful heart and being a good steward with your finances.
MAIN TEXTMalachi 3:6-12
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
David Lorimer tells his story and the hope for all people in Jesus.
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
In this episode pastor David Varney works through Malachi 3 to answer the perennial question: “Where is the God of justice?” Using the prophet’s threefold reply—“I will send, I will testify, I will purify”—the speaker unpacks Scripture, links Malachi to John the Baptist and Jesus, and explains how God’s justice is both decisive and redemptive.
The sermon covers the problem of evil and suffering, the role of the messenger who prepares the way (John the Baptist), and the Lord who brings covenant justice (Jesus). Key themes include God’s courtroom of accountability, the refining and purifying imagery of fire and soap, Christ’s atonement as taking the judgment in our place, and the work of the Holy Spirit to make believers righteous.
Listeners can expect practical application and a call to live out God’s justice—both personally and socially—along with references to organizations and opportunities for action (e.g., supporting persecuted believers and anti-trafficking efforts). The tone is pastoral, evangelistic, and challenge-oriented: repent, be refined, and pursue justice in your community.
MAIN TEXTMalachi 2:17-3:5
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Nathan Brown teaches the first on our series The Spirit of Mission.
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Part of the sermon series "The Return of the Prodigal Church," this episode studies Malachi’s teaching on marriage: God’s design for one-flesh covenant unity.
The talk exposes two enemies of marriage—spiritual mismatching (marrying those who worship other gods) and the breaking of covenant through easy divorce—using biblical examples and pastoral warnings about how hearts can wander from God and one another.
It points listeners to Jesus as the ultimate husband who forgives, heals, and restores marriages, and concludes with three practical steps for couples: be on guard, renew your covenant vows, and cultivate sexual, relational, and spiritual intimacy.
MAIN TEXTMalachi 2:10-16
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
In this episode, speaker Terry Virgo shares his personal testimony and teachings on the power of prayer, using the story of Elijah as the central example. Terry recounts his spiritual journey, then explores biblical patterns of prayer: withdrawing from the crowd, calling on God's promises, speaks on praying specifically, and praying with spiritual fervour.
He draws on examples from Scripture (Elijah, Jesus, Daniel, Moses), missionary stories (Hudson Taylor, J.O. Fraser), and church-building experiences to encourage listeners to plan, persist, and pray with faith. Expect practical tips on finding your best time to pray, engaging corporate prayer, and learning to persevere until answers come. The episode concludes with an urgent call for national and personal revival and a prayer for God's Spirit to rest on the congregation.
SPEAKERTerry Virgo, Founder of Newfrontiers
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
In the current series 'Return of the prodigal church' this week's sermon discusses how bad leadership can be a curse, and how good leadership can be a blessing as David Varney unpacks this message from the book of Malachi 2:1-9
MAIN TEXTMalachi 2:1-9
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This episode is a sermon in a series through the book of Malachi ("The Return of the Prodigal Church"). We explore how the question "Does God love me?" connects to corporate worship, examining why worship becomes shallow or "fake," how God responds, and how a community can be renewed.
Topics covered include the priests offering defiled sacrifices, the people bringing leftovers, causes of fake worship (God unseen, getting away with it, groupthink), God’s strong rebuke, and the call to return to wholehearted worship. The talk highlights Malachi 1–2, Malachi’s vision of global worship (verse 11), Pentecost, and the missional link between worship and missions.
Key takeaways: God desires our best, not empty ritual; genuine worship flows from knowing God’s love; renewal is possible and leads to worship that reaches the nations. — this is a pastoral sermon aimed at challenging and encouraging the congregation to offer themselves as living sacrifices.
MAIN TEXTMalachi 1:6-14
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Stuart Elliott joins Pastor Dave to share his testimony of growing up in East Belfast, the early promise and setbacks of a footballing dream, the sudden loss of his father, and a life-changing conversion at a tent crusade in 1995. He recounts how faith redirected his path from street corners to professional success and ministry.
The episode covers Stuart’s football career highlights—Glentoran, Motherwell, Hull City, 39 Northern Ireland caps, major trophies and promotions—as well as his evangelistic work, including youth outreach events like Encounter at the Well and the impact of his testimony on fans and communities.
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
How has God loved us?
This is the question asked by God's disillusioned and discouraged people. Israel have returned from exile to rebuild the Temple and city of Jerusalem, but it left them asking whether God's love and blessing is still upon them.
We can ask the same question too. Does God really love me?
This sermon, part of our new series Return of the Prodigal Church, examines four pieces of evidence that God loves his people.
- Because he says so;
- A long history of God's faithful love;
- His love can be experienced now;
- There is more to come
MAIN TEXTMalachi 1:1-5
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This episode opens with a prayer and a scripture reading from Philippians 4:2–9 (read by Esther), followed by a sermon from the church speaker as the closing talk in a Philippians series. The message focuses on how practicing the gospel produces joy and peace in daily life and church community.
Topics covered include four lessons from Philippians—how to relate to others, how to cope with anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving, how to shape your thought life by focusing on what is true and lovely, and how to influence others by example. The speaker also introduces a practical tool called "theological triage" to help prioritize disputes in the church.
Key takeaways and practical steps are given: memorize and internalize Philippians 4:8–9, use it as a checklist in moments of conflict or worry, commit to encouraging one another in community, and model gospel living as leaders and members. The sermon points to the promises of God’s peace and God’s presence for those who practice these things.
Listeners can expect practical, scripture-grounded guidance for handling conflict, anxiety, and daily thinking, along with encouragement to participate in and influence local church life.
This sermon explores perseverance as taught in Philippians, tracing how joy comes from persevering faith and the future hope of Christ. Key topics include the practice of perseverance, the power and problems of persevering faith, the theological distinction between justification and sanctification, and the ultimate prize of glorification.
The speaker uses Paul’s life as an example, urges believers to imitate mature faith, warns against those who “walk as enemies of the cross,” and calls the church to a daily, active pursuit of Christ empowered by the Spirit. The message culminates in the promise of transformation at Christ’s return and the lifelong call to press on toward Jesus.
Speaker: a pastor preaching from Philippians. No external guests. Expect clear biblical teaching, pastoral application, and encouragement to live a persevering, joy-filled Christian life.
MAIN TEXTPhilippians 3:12-21
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
In this episode we unpack Jonah chapter 2 and explore how God hears prayers from the darkness and provides salvation even in our lowest moments. The speaker reflects on personal grief and church community support, walks through Jonah’s experience in the belly of the fish, and connects it to Jesus’ death and resurrection as the ultimate rescue. Expect scripture exposition, pastoral encouragement, practical implications for Christian living (transformed perspective, service, and deep peace), and references to the hymn “It Is Well” and the life of Horatio Spafford.
This episode is a break from the current series delivered by our very own Matt Adams about what is our greatest need?
In this episode Chris from Open Doors explores what it means to be a witness for Jesus in a world that often responds with hostility. Through Scripture—especially Jesus’ call to be witnesses and the Beatitudes—Chris frames the reality that following Christ can be costly but also redeeming. He shares powerful stories from around the world: Baheer from Turkmenistan who found faith amid brutality and forgave his persecutor; John from Yemen who left Islam for Christ and now ministers online despite daily death threats; Manga from Nigeria who survived a Boko Haram attack and bears the scars as testimony; and Ju Min from North Korea who returned to risk everything to encourage believers at home.
The episode covers global statistics on persecution, the theological context of suffering and reward, practical ways listeners can help—praying, signing petitions, and learning how to intercede—and an urgent call to stand with the persecuted church. Expect biblical teaching, moving testimonies, and concrete actions to support fellow believers under threat.
This episode is an expository sermon on Philippians 2:19–30, unpacking Paul’s commendation of Timothy and Epaphroditus as realistic models of gospel-centered service.
Featured figures and examples include Timothy and Epaphroditus from Scripture, plus modern parallels such as Corrie ten Boom, a long-term missionary couple who left comfort to fight trafficking, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. The message highlights themes of sacrificial service, suffering for the gospel, mutual care in the church, and the joy that flows from giving one’s life away for others.
Key takeaways:
- be genuinely concerned for others’ welfare,
- put Christ and others before personal interest,
- minister practically in your local church and the world, and
- embrace selfless living as the pathway to true joy and gospel impact.
MAIN TEXTPhilippians 2:19-30
SPEAKERMatt Adams, member of Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
The Bible calls us to Shine like lights in a dark world by working out our salvation; that is, expressing our new spiritual life in Christ.
We learn our calling to Shine like lights through:
- The Grounds of shining the gospel
- The Responsibility of shining the gospel
- The Challenge of shining the gospel
MAIN TEXTPhilippians 2:12-18
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This episode unpacks Philippians 2:1–11, a sermon exploring why Christians should model the gospel in daily life and in the church. Pastor David Varney walks through Paul’s famous Christ-hymn and applies it to us today.
The four reasons to model the gospel
- because you are a Christian
- because it builds a healthy church
- because Jesus humbled himself
- because of the joy that awaits you
MAIN TEXTPhilippians 2:1-11
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Podbean https://foundationchurchbelfast.podbean.com/
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
In this episode a sermon on Philippians 1:18–30 explores how the Apostle Paul finds unshakable joy despite imprisonment. Pastor David Varney walks listeners through three inroads to joy — expectation, example, and entry — showing how prayer, the Holy Spirit, and partnership in the gospel sustain hope.
MAIN TEXTPhilippians 1:18-30
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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This episode (Week 2 in the series through Philippians) is a sermon unpacking Philippians 1:12–18. We note how Paul’s imprisonment actually advanced the gospel—so much so that the imperial guard and many others heard about Christ—and explore why that produced joy.
Key topics include three roads that advance the gospel: hardship, example, and rivalry. The message includes reflections on church planting, ageing in ministry, the persecuted church, and practical applications for believers facing personal or communal hardship.
MAIN TEXTPhilippians 1:12-18
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
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Paul’s joy is contagious: even from prison he celebrates the Philippians’ faith, their generous partnership, and the sure promise that God will finish what he began in them.
But can we experience this kind of joy in our own lives?
How may we lay hold of it?
MAIN TEXTExodus 24:1 - 25:9
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This message walks through Exodus 24 in a really simple way: God calls his people, cleanses them with covenant blood, communes with them at the table, and then sends them out on mission. It’s a down-to-earth reminder that God draws near, makes us clean, shares life with us, and gives us purpose.
If you’re curious about what that means for you: consider giving your allegiance to Jesus, plugging into a church family, and letting your time, talent, and treasure be used for something bigger. Come along — God wants to be with you and send you out.
MAIN TEXTExodus 24:1 - 25:9
SPEAKERDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Remember the Magi who left everything to follow a star? This passage (Matthew 2:1–12) shows Jesus isn’t just a newborn; he’s God worth our humility, time, and money. They dropped their status, travelled far, and worshipped him — and that same call is for you and me.
So let’s be honest: what do we treasure most? The story nudges us to treasure Jesus above all, to worship from the heart, and to let that worship spill into how we live, give, and love others. Come with me this year — let’s choose him first, together.
MAIN TEXTMatthew 2:1-12
SPEAKERMatt Adams
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
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YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Hey—if you’ve ever wondered what Christmas really means beyond carols and tinsel, this episode walks you through the heart-stopping truth: the eternal Son became one of us. We’ll unpack what “incarnation” means, why Jesus had to be fully God and fully human, and how that strange, beautiful act opens the door for us to be forgiven, known, and invited into real fellowship with God.
No heavy theology lecture—just plain talk about how God stepping into our shoes changes everything: your body matters, your hurts are felt, and your future is transformed. Come away with a fresh sense of wonder and the simple, joyful aim of it all: to sit at God’s table and be loved.
MAIN TEXTJohn 1:14 & 1 John 1:1-4
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This Advent teaching series presents four Christian doctrines that Make Sense of Christmas.
In this first sermon, we examine the opening paragraph of St. John's Gospel and realise that Christmas doesn't begin at the Nativity, but rather In the Beginning (John 1:1).
The message considers:
- Who is the Eternal Word?
- What did the Eternal Word come to do?
- How Am I Blessed by the Eternal Word?
MAIN TEXTJohn 1:1-13
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Johnny Carson preaches from 2 Kings 4 focusing on the Shunammite woman’s hospitality, the prophecy of a son, his sudden death, and Elisha’s miraculous restoration of life. He highlights Elisha as a foreshadow of Jesus and draws three faith postures from the chapter: faithful giving, resilient faith, and private, focused prayer.
The message calls listeners to practical response—give in faith, remain resilient in suffering, and shut the door to seek God in prayer—trusting the greater work of Christ who brings life out of death.
MAIN TEXT2 Kings 4:8-37
SPEAKERJohnny Carson, Pastor at The Way Church Ballyclare, part of the Advance Movement of churches.
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This episode reflects on 1 Samuel 31, recounting Saul and his sons' deaths at Mount Gilboa, the Philistine victory, and the grim aftermath as towns are abandoned and bodies dishonoured.
Through this we learn three lessons that carry eternal consequences for every person:
- the fallout of rebelling against God,
- the finality of our rebellion, and
- the fix for our rebellion.
There is always hope offered through Jesus, by repentance and turning to Christ we can be freed.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 31:1-13
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This episode examines 1 Samuel 28:3–25, recounting King Saul’s visit to the medium at Endor, his encounter with Samuel’s spirit, and the grim consequences of his long resistance to God.
The sermon outlines four signs of resisting God—being close to God but not truly with Him, living against God’s word, persistent unbelief when faced with the gospel, and choosing darkness over light—and concludes with a call to repentance and the hope of Christ.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 28:3-25
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Our reading from 1 Samuel 25 tells how David’s men are insulted by the wealthy Nabal, and Abigail rushes in with food and humility to avert bloodshed.
The sermon draws out why peacemakers are needed, who they are (Abigail and ultimately Jesus), and practical steps to be peacemakers: be brave, humble, and sacrificial.
It calls believers to pursue reconciliation whether they are the offender, the offended, or a third-party mediator, and points to Christ as the ultimate peacemaker who removes God’s wrath through his sacrifice.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 25:1-40
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This sermon walks through Psalm 42–43 to define spiritual depression—when the soul feels distant from God—and explains how it affects our body, mind and spirit.
It explores possible causes (isolation, mocking, personal susceptibility), offers six practical responses (recognize the problem, use the Psalms, remember past blessings, approach God boldly, preach truth to yourself, anticipate future blessing), and points to Jesus on the cross as the ultimate hope: though believers may feel forsaken, the gospel guarantees we are not abandoned.
MAIN TEXTPsalm 42-43
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
How can we gain salvation? What does it take to be right with God and receive life from him?
This sermon highlights four steps we can take on the pathway to salvation:
- The Earthquake
- The Cry
- The Belief
- The transformation
MAIN TEXTActs 16:25-32
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
This episode unpacks the familiar story of David and Goliath to explore how God chooses people who trust His word, walk in humility, listen and obey His voice, and recognize their need for a champion.
Using David’s example, the message connects the ancient battle to our lives today—showing that Jesus is the ultimate champion who fights for us and calling listeners to live in trust and victory rather than fear.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 17.
SPEAKERNathan Brown, church planter in Belfast.
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
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Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
Why do we do what we do at Foundation Church Belfast?
In this six-part series we examine six key emphases that shape our gatherings: When You Come Together.
What are we to make of the spiritual gift of tongues as the Bible describes it? Has the gift ceased? Or if not, how should it function? How does it serve to strengthen the church, as with all the gifts?
MAIN TEXT1 Corinthians 12:7-11; 13:1-14:1.
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor at Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
LISTEN TO MOREApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foundation-church-belfast/id1599109887
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6uAXPfwFLdZGmKFlc0jRLX
Deezer https://link.deezer.com/s/30mr8UHtormGRTICQHHkP
Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0d056dc4-313c-4ccf-9064-398b5c0a3b06
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@foundationchurchbelfast
How we respond to the trials of life shows us a lot about what we fundamentally trust in.
Trials can either build faith or tear it down; push us towards God as our hope or away from him.
We see this play out in the life of King Saul. He was given a test to dig out what was truly in his inner being - a test he ultimately failed.
His trial is significant and weighty, but he responds by taking matters into his own hands, disobeying God's clear commands to him, and then attempting to make a load of excuses to point the finger of fault at everyone else.
By comparing his actions with the first man, Adam, we are pointed forward to 'a man after God's own heart,' a second Adam, fulfilled in Jesus.
Only through trust and faith in Jesus the Second Adam can we be freed from excusing away our bad decisions and faults, allowing us to be humble and accept our faults. Only then we can receive God's grace and mercy, sharing the victory of the Second Adam, Jesus.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 13:1-15
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
If you are person of faith - how do you know if your faith is real? And how do you define your faith - by your own standards, or by a higher authority?
The Bible challenges us to examine ourselves to see whether we are 'in the faith' (2 Corinthians 13:5). It seems there are plenty of religious people who think they have faith, but don't.
This sermon examines the three ways we can test if our faith is real:
- Guilt
- Grace
- Gratitude
The presence or absence of these things in our lives (and how we deal with them) shows us a lot about our faith - and whether it is true faith according to God.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 12:1-25
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family
We sometimes pray: Thy Kingdom Come, Thy will be done, On Earth as it is in heaven. We are praying about the kingdom of God.
But have you ever wondered what that means? What are you really praying for? And how would you know when this prayer is answered? What even is the kingdom of God?
This sermon shows how in the Old Testament we see Glimpses of the Kingdom of God, snippets of what is to come in fulness through King Jesus.
Through the experience of Israel's first king Saul, we learn about:
- Effects of the Kingdom
- Entering the Kingdom
We come to recognise signs of the Kingdom of God within ourselves, and are challenged to examine the conditions for entering the kingdom itself - what must we do?
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 11:1-15
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family
God's choice of his first king surprised everyone, even the man himself, Saul.
But God makes Saul's calling clear in three ways, in order to confirm and underscore his decision:
- Through signs
- By his Spirit
- Public selection
We then ask whether God still confirms his calling upon us in the same way today.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 10:1-27
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
It is possible to believe in God in general but still remain dissatisfied with him.
This was the situation the people of God found themselves in as they demanded a new king.
However, their request revealed more about the peoples' inner motivation. Their dissatisfaction with God was caused by:
- Comparison
- Rationalisation
- Bible misuse
We can likewise succumb to any or all of these causative factors, growing deep dissatisfaction towards God within us.
The good news is that a cure is available.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 8:1-22
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
God's people experienced spiritual renewal under the ministry of Samuel their great leader.
Judging by recent statistics there is something of a 'Quiet Revival' taking place in the UK. Increased numbers of church attenders have been noticed over the last few years, particularly among men in 20-30 age bracket.
If we notice a hunger, or desire for God, what can we do?
This sermon examines Israel's spiritual renewal and observes three steps we can take towards salvation:
- Repentance
- Confession
- Approach
We can take these three steps today and turn to God, and experience his salvation power.
The sermon ends by showing three results of salvation that Israel experienced, and so shall we by faith in Jesus Christ.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 7:2-17
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Glenn Wasson preaches on the love of Christ for sufferers in this message as part of the series Seven Churches.
Living as a disciple of Jesus will generate opposition from others at some point in our lives. But in this text we are reminded that Jesus cares for his suffering people.
It ends with a promise of his presence with us at all times, and the hope of a victorious future as we persevere now under trials.
MAIN TEXTRevelation 2:8-11
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Both the Philistines and the Israelites experience the dangerous presence of God. The Ark of God seems to leave a trail of destruction behind it as it is passed from city to city, and then from Philistines back to the Israelites.
In this talk we see how God can be a dangerous presence to both religious and non-religious people. Whether it is the superstition and ignorance of the non-religious, or the disrespect and disobedience of religious types, both can fall under the 'heavy hand' of God.
We are forced to ask, 'Who then can be saved?' Only by the gospel of Jesus do we have any hope. In the gospel, God sends help across the divide, covering us in the righteousness of Christ, so we can live with a holy God.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 5:1-12; 6:13-14, 19-20.
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
We join two travellers on the road home from Jerusalem, discussing the events of that momentous weekend - the death of Jesus of Nazareth, and the early reports that his tomb was empty.
Jesus walked with them incognito, and drew them deeper into the Good News. During their time with Jesus, the travellers were presented with three keys to unlocking the treasure of Easter.
- Understand Jesus
- Believe Jesus
- Changed by Jesus
These same keys are available us today; if we use them, we unlock the treasury of Easter and can attain all that Jesus promised at the start of his ministry (Luke 4:18-19).
MAIN TEXTLuke 24:13-35
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
At the official entrance of Jesus into the city of Jerusalem on what would be his final trip, we see the crowds stirred up with untold enthusiasm.
However following quickly on is their collective disappointment that Jesus did not kick start the revolution they had been hoping for.
In this sermon we examine the expectations and disappointments we can have towards Jesus; finishing on an unexpected surprise about his true mission and power expressed through the cross.
MAIN TEXTMark 11:1-11
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Who doesn't want to receive blessing from God? His power? His gifts? Most people would say yes to all these things. But did you know you can block blessing from God?
This sermon examines two blockages to receiving God's blessing:
- Superstition
- Resistance
We end by seeing how Jesus restores the flow of God's blessing to us through the gospel.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 4:1-22
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Terry Virgo speaks on SPIRITUAL WARFARE as part of the Advance Movement Ireland Conference 2025.
Terry is the founder of Newfrontiers, a global network of over 1,500 churches, which now exists as a collective of apostolic spheres, of which Advance is a part.
Find out more: https://www.advancemovement.com/
ADVANCE UK AND EUROPE CONFERENCEhttps://www.advancemovement.com/event/advance-uk-europe-conference-2025/
ADVANCE CHURCH PLANTERS COURSEhttps://resources.advancemovement.com/courses/church-planting-uk/
Clive Bowsher teaches on CONFIDENCE that flows from our unity with God and one another in Jesus.
Clive teaches New Testament and Biblical Theology at Union School of Theology.
This talk was part of the Advance Movement Ireland Conference 2025.
ADVANCE is a movement of churches partnering together to plant and strengthen churches.
Find out more: https://www.advancemovement.com/
ADVANCE UK AND EUROPE CONFERENCEhttps://www.advancemovement.com/event/advance-uk-europe-conference-2025/
ADVANCE CHURCH PLANTERS COURSEhttps://resources.advancemovement.com/courses/church-planting-uk/
UNION SCHOOL OF THEOLOGYhttps://www.ust.ac.uk/
Terry Virgo speaks on KINGDOM COME as part of the Advance Movement Ireland Conference 2025.
Terry is the founder of Newfrontiers, a global network of over 1,500 churches, which now exists as a collective of apostolic spheres, of which Advance is a part.
Find out more: https://www.advancemovement.com/
ADVANCE UK AND EUROPE CONFERENCEhttps://www.advancemovement.com/event/advance-uk-europe-conference-2025/
ADVANCE CHURCH PLANTERS COURSEhttps://resources.advancemovement.com/courses/church-planting-uk/
Clive Bowsher teaches on the FREEDOM we have before the Father, in the Son, by the Spirit.
Clive teaches New Testament and Biblical Theology at Union School of Theology.
This talk was part of the Advance Movement Ireland Conference 2025.
ADVANCE is a movement of churches partnering together to plant and strengthen churches.
Find out more: https://www.advancemovement.com/
ADVANCE UK AND EUROPE CONFERENCEhttps://www.advancemovement.com/event/advance-uk-europe-conference-2025/
ADVANCE CHURCH PLANTERS COURSEhttps://resources.advancemovement.com/courses/church-planting-uk/
UNION SCHOOL OF THEOLOGYhttps://www.ust.ac.uk/
When God speaks, a person is never the same again. We see this in the experience of Samuel, a young boy chosen by God to become an influential leader.
In this sermon, we learn about How to Hear God's Word, but equally importantly, How Not to Hear God's Word, as in the case of the old man Eli.
You can know when you've heard God's Word because you will:
- Want to believe;
- Want to follow, and;
- Want to grow
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 3:1-21
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The Advance Movement Ireland Conference is coming soon: a day of teaching, worship, vision and prayer for the advance of the gospel in Ireland.
Our main speakers are Terry Virgo (Founder of Newfrontiers) and Clive Bowsher (Provost and lecturer Union School of Theology) and hosted by local Advance NI church leaders.
Book tickets now!
https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/azuogfaf
Sean Russell preaches on the danger of compromise within a church, especially when some things appear to be going quite well.
Rather than excuse our compromises, we must see them as Jesus does - as a dangerous threat to the very life of the church.
Yet for anyone who hears the warning of Jesus, there is grace and power to be victorious.
MAIN TEXTRevelation 2:18-29
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The Advance Movement Ireland Conference is coming soon: a day of teaching, worship, vision and prayer for the advance of the gospel in Ireland.
Our main speakers are Terry Virgo (Founder of Newfrontiers) and Clive Bowsher (Provost and lecturer Union School of Theology) and hosted by local Advance NI church leaders.
Book tickets now!
https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/azuogfaf
Leadership fails can be catastrophic for all who are connected to the leader in question. In this sermon we see two forms of catastrophic leadership fails - in the church and in the home.
However, when all seems to be falling apart, God is quietly raising up a deliverer. Samuel gives us a pattern of how to beat leadership fails - but more importantly he points us forward to the perfect leader who never fails us - Jesus.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 2:12-36
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The Advance Movement Ireland Conference is coming soon: a day of teaching, worship, vision and prayer for the advance of the gospel in Ireland.
Our main speakers are Terry Virgo (Founder of Newfrontiers) and Clive Bowsher (Provost and lecturer Union School of Theology) and hosted by local Advance NI church leaders.
Book tickets now!
https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/azuogfaf
Anyone who experiences God's deliverance power will never be the same again.
But how do you know if you qualify for God's deliverance in your life? What sort of person must you be, or what must you do to obtain it?
Hannah's prayer of thanks shows that some people can receive God's salvation and some people cannot. But who are they?
In this sermon we examine how God secures our deliverance; and how you know when you've been delivered.
We finish by describing three signs that you will demonstrate to help you know if you've experienced God's deliverance.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 2:1-11
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The Advance Movement Ireland Conference is coming soon: a day of teaching, worship, vision and prayer for the advance of the gospel in Ireland.
Our main speakers are Terry Virgo (Founder of Newfrontiers) and Clive Bowsher (Provost and lecturer Union School of Theology) and hosted by local Advance NI church leaders.
Book tickets now!
https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/azuogfaf
God is delighted to deliver his people. He raises up a powerful leader to prepare the way for God's king. That leader's name is Samuel.
But like many significant figures in the Bible, Samuel had a miraculous birth story. His mother Hannah could not have children and she bore the deep anguish and pain of this cycle of childlessness.
However, she is an outstanding model of how to handle our agony and disappointments, and indeed how to enter the process of seeking deliverance.
We are likewise to follow her in pouring out our hearts to God, and seeing our own cries for deliverance on the background of God's big picture of ultimate deliverance - through his own Son.
MAIN TEXT1 Samuel 1:1-28
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The Advance Movement Ireland Conference is coming soon: a day of teaching, worship, vision and prayer for the advance of the gospel in Ireland.
Our main speakers are Terry Virgo (Founder of Newfrontiers) and Clive Bowsher (Provost and lecturer Union School of Theology) and hosted by local Advance NI church leaders.
Book tickets now!
https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/azuogfaf
Jesus speaks to seven churches in ancient Asia Minor, addressing their strengths and weaknesses, and giving promises to those who hear his word and follow it.
In this message, Jonah shows how moral compromise can fatally damage a church, but how the gospel of Jesus is the power for faithfulness and fundamental life change.
MAIN TEXTRevelation 2:12-17
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
ADVANCE MOVEMENTWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The Advance Movement Ireland Conference is coming soon: a day of teaching, worship, vision and prayer for the advance of the gospel in Ireland.
Our main speakers are Terry Virgo (Founder of Newfrontiers) and Clive Bowsher (Provost and lecturer Union School of Theology) and hosted by local Advance NI church leaders.
Book tickets now!
https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/azuogfaf
In this series we examine the biblical framework for the five catalytic gifts that Jesus gives to his church so that it may reach unity and maturity. This talk focuses on the role and gift of the Apostle. Who is an Apostle? How does an Apostle work? What is an Apostle like? How […]
Advent sermon from Micah 5:1-5. Christmas shows us: Greatness comes from insignificance Strengthen comes from weakness Peace comes from the enemy But we need Easter to apply Christmas to us. Only through Jesus’ cross and resurrection can we know greatness, strength and peace we see at the first Christmas. MAIN TEXT Micah […]
In this final message of our series in the life of Gideon, we see that Gideon ended badly. For all his moments of faith, he ultimately left the Israelites in a worse position than before. How can this be? We see two major faults in Gideon: He was a product of his father’s […]
One encounter with Jesus will transform your life. That was true for the characters in this account from John 12. One experienced Jesus’ resurrection power. One responded in radical devotion and love. One hid his selfishness behind his religious words. The Christian gospel carries a power that can lift the dead to new […]
Gideon struggles with weak faith. What’s more, he has some major battles ahead of him. To seek clarity he lays down some tests for God, who graciously complies. Furthermore, God gives an additional encouragement through an unusual dream. How much of Gideon’s story should provide a model for our own discernment and decision-making? How should […]
This new series focuses on the life of Old Testament character Gideon: The rise and fall of faith and power. When God steps in to save his people we notice two phases: God always takes the initiative We must listen and respond MAIN TEXT Judges 6:1-24 SPEAKER David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church […]
Jesus brought immediate calm when he spoke to the raging storm. Life was at risk, and the disciples were panicking to do something – anything – that would save them. But nothing was helping. Their only option was Jesus. In this sermon we learn: Jesus is present in the storm Jesus is powerful over […]
The final talk in our Transforming Community series. If we grasp the message of the gospel of Jesus, this will have a profound effect on three relationships within the church: With our leaders With one another With God in worship This will shape how we see our meeting together as believers in Jesus. […]
How we think about the final day will impact how we live in the present day. The Apostle Paul writes to encourage the new Christian believers in Thessalonica that the Day of the Lord is something they can look forward to in hope, and not to fear. This sermon addresses mistakes we make […]
Message by Nathan Brown as part of our Transforming Community series. MAIN TEXT 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 SPEAKER Nathan Brown, church planter in Belfast FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST Every Sunday 10:30am – 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
People transformed by Jesus should live differently to those who have not encountered him. One of the chief ways this difference can be noted is how Christians handle grief. Paul addresses this very issue: how the hope of Jesus coming back transforms the way we grieve even the deepest losses. ***Apologies for […]
The new Christians in Thessalonica received the gospel of Jesus with joy. However, they were vulnerable to attack - from the old enemy Satan and from persecution from hostile outsiders.
Paul and his apostolic team are anxious for the new believers, so they sent Timothy to strengthen the church and find out how they were getting on.
His encouraging report demonstrated that God was sustaining and prospering the new church of Thessalonica.
MAIN TEXT
1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
For community to be truly transformative it must receive and accept God’s Word for what it is: a divine word from God, centred on his Son, and instructions of how to live for him through his Spirit. However, as the Thessalonian believers found out, God’s word is divisive, highlighting clearly where living for Jesus looks radically […]
First message in our series Transforming Community. For a true community to be powerfully transforming it is: Originated in God Birthed by Word and Spirit Resilient in Adversity Attractive to Outsiders MAIN TEXT 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 SPEAKER David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST Every Sunday 10:30am – 2d Knockwood […]
Transforming Community is built by two key attributes: Authenticity Missionality In this sermon, we look at the Apostle Paul’s example to the church in Thessalonica, and consider how these essential attributes can be embodied at Foundation Church Belfast. MAIN TEXT 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 SPEAKER David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast FOUNDATION CHURCH […]
Everyone wishes to know the joy of rest. But for many of us it is so elusive.
This message examines why we find rest so difficult to achieve and then considers the way that God leads us into deep rest in him.
We then conclude with practical steps we can take to enter into the rest God has provided for us.
MAIN TEXT
Psalm 4:1-8
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
With so much injustice in the world, what does God do about it?
In Psalm 10 we are given a blueprint for lament - taking our cries for justice to God. The Psalm shows us what the wicked unjust are like under the surface, behaving as if there is no God.
However the Psalm also gives us hope. It calls upon the justice of God. God is near to the downtrodden, the oppressed and the abused. He promises to come in full fury against all oppression and evil.
Yet in the gospel, we are able to confront an uncomfortable truth - we have all been unjust towards other people in some shape or form. Only through the gospel of Jesus are we able to confess our own injustice as well as receive healing for injustice we have suffered at the hands of others.
MAIN TEXT
Psalm 10:1-18
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
According to the Psalmist, God makes himself known to us in three ways:
- He is displayed in the skies
- He is defined in the word
- He is discerned in the heart
It is possible to know God through each of these ways, each one building upon the other.
MAIN TEXT
Psalm 19:1-14
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The end of the Book of Acts sees the Apostle Paul imprisoned on trial in Rome. Is this the biggest anti-climax in the Bible? Not in the slightest. In fact, from prison, Paul is able to preach the good news of Jesus ‘without hindrance.’ He is chained up but the gospel message can never […]
Sermon by Mike Duff from Cornerstone Church Newcastle, as part of our eldership installation service.
MAIN TEXTJoshua 1:1-9
SPEAKERMike Duff, Cornerstone Church Newcastle
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
A church without elders is incomplete, unhealthy, vulnerable. This is according to the Apostle Paul, who sought to appoint elders to lead and care for the churches.
In this message, we examine Paul's passionate message to the elders of the church in Ephesus as he concludes his third missionary journey.
Taking himself as an example, Paul teaches:
- Who elders are;
- What elders are like;
- What elders should do
As we move towards eldership elections at Foundation Church Belfast, this is a timely message for those in spiritual leadership or who feel called to it in the future.
MAIN TEXT
Acts 20:17-38
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
We are heavily influenced by the culture we live in. We often don't realise how much we are shaped by our culture; how it shapes our values, aspirations, search for meaning.
As the church, we must be aware of the dominant culture around us, so that we may understand and articulate the Christian gospel to people in ways they can comprehend.
We see the Apostle Paul doing just that as he surveyed the great city of Athens during his second missionary journey.
Paul provides us with a clear framework for assessing and engaging with the dominant culture around us, whether in our own city, or further afield as we seek to advance the gospel of Jesus into a diverse world.
MAIN TEXT
Acts 17:16-35
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The gospel message is the same for all people - the message of God's saving work through Jesus. But the way the gospel comes to a person can vary widely.
In this bible text we see the gospel taking root in three diverse people: a successful businesswoman, a military veteran-turned security contractor, and a demonically oppressed slave girl.
Each of these people needed the life-giving power of Jesus; yet how they received it depended on their circumstances.
We see in this sermon that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the coming of the gospel. As a church, a community on mission, we must be aware of how the gospel comes, and be willing to minister the gospel to people as we find them.
Plus there is hope - if you feel like an outsider, a non-religious type, but find yourself hungering after more - Jesus meets you where you are and draws you to himself.
MAIN TEXT
Acts 16:11-34
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
As the gospel advances there will be setbacks. If we are to be used by God to advance the gospel through planting and strengthening churches, we must be ready to deal with discouragement.
Paul's second missionary journey begun under a cloud of discouragement. John Mark was a young leader who had previously deserted the apostolic team, leaving it at a critical moment and imperilling the mission. Barnabas and Paul were divided about whether to bring John Mark back on to the team.
Furthermore, Paul and his new team had severe difficulties entering new ground with the gospel. Twice the Holy Spirit prevented them from going into new regions.
Discouragement comes with gospel advance. This sermon looks at the source of our discouragements and lifts our gaze to see God sovereignly working out his grand plans. Only when we understand what he is doing are we then able to handle discouragement and move through it with faith.
MAIN TEXT
Acts 15:36-16:10
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The gospel of Jesus had been making huge strides in its forward momentum. But the brakes are jammed on as the church hits a theological controversy - What is the nature of the gospel? In other words, how is someone actually saved? A group of Jewi...
We address the reality of spiritual evil in this sermon. It always seeks to obstruct the advance of the gospel.
In this episode, a magician of considerable spiritual power, tries to stop a key local civic leader from believing the gospel message of Jesus.
However, the power and purity of God's Holy Spirit is displayed for all to see, as the magician is humiliated in front of them all.
Today, the same pure and powerful Spirit is available to us, through faith in Jesus. No spiritual darkness that we may experience is a match for God's Spirit. God can free the most spiritually oppressed person to receive his life-giving presence.
MAIN TEXT
Acts 13:1-12
SPEAKER
David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Sermon from Matt Adams of Immanuel Church Millisle.
MAIN TEXT
Acts 12:1-19
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFAST
Every Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
In the newly-formed church in Antioch, we see a gifted team being assembled by the Holy Spirit that plants and strengthens the church.
Unnamed evangelists bring the good news to Antioch; Barnabas brings apostolic exhortation and encouragement; Saul brings top class teaching for the new believers; Agabus adds prophetic fire power.
Yet the church didn't exist on its own. It was strengthened by the Jerusalem church, and in turn, strengthened the Jerusalem church by sending financial aid.
In this dynamic planting and strengthening, we see a model of how churches are to be today - with the same gospel and the same Holy Spirit, we are led to pray, 'Do it again Lord.'
MAIN TEXTActs 11:19-30
SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
In the newly-formed church in Antioch, we see a gifted team being assembled by the Holy Spirit that plants and strengthens the church. Unnamed evangelists bring the good news to Antioch; Barnabas brings apostolic exhortation and encouragement; Saul...
An officer of the Roman army converts to Christianity, signalling a paradigm shift in the advance of the gospel.Why is it so significant? He and his family are the first Gentiles to be enveloped into the people of God called the church. The doors of...
How is it that someone so devoted to the destruction of Christianity can become one of it's greatest heroes? In the account of the conversion of the Apostle Paul (aka Saul) we see how such radical transformation is possible. But beyond Paul's ama...
The Kingdom of God advances by Outsiders Coming InInsiders Going OutBoth are powerfully depicted by Philip's interaction with the Ethiopian Eunuch in Acts 8. MAIN TEXTActs 8:26-40 SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast FOUND...
The gospel advances to all the 'wrong' places. Here we see the hated neighbours - the Samaritans - believing the message about Jesus in their hundreds. Curiously, the Holy Spirit appears to be withheld from these new believers until the Apostles fr...
One of the most gifted leaders of the early church was cut off in his prime. Stephen was a man full of the Holy Spirit and was highly effective in the church. But he was the object of sustained opposition from people who hated the message of Jesus....
Message from baptism Sunday showing how:Baptism connects us with the pastBaptism orientates us with the futureBaptism gives hope for the present MAIN TEXTRomans 6:1-11 SPEAKERDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast FOUNDATION CHURCH...
Message from Phil Swinburn.MAIN TEXTActs 4:23-31 FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GEWe are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The early church had grown rapidly as the Word of God and the Spirit of God spread like fire. Up to this point, the Apostles oversaw the distribution of funds to the poor in the church. But as the church grew, the Apostles found themselves spinning...
We hear teaching from an astonishing section of the history of the early church. A husband and wife chose to conspire against the church and ultimately against God and end up dead as a result. Their sin? Using religion to make themselves influentia...
The Word of God and the Spirit of God drive the advance of the gospel through the people of God. If we are to see great gospel advance in our day we must share the same conviction of the Word of God - the message about Jesus - that the early church...
The first church rapidly grew to more than 3,000 people, yet the quality and depth of its community was remarkable. A gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission is characterised by Four Marks:DevotedAwe-InspiredGenerousGrowingIs suc...
In this sermon we hear about the point of Pentecost and its implications for the church today.Main TextsActs 2:1-38 SpeakerDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEvery Sunday 10:30am - 2d Knockwood Crescent, B...
St. Luke describes all that Jesus began to do and teach in the first volume of his work - the Gospel of Luke. But the second volume begins with the anticipation of what Jesus continues to do as his kingdom comes. In this introductory message, we ...
For Christmas to be more than a sentimental event, we need to be clear:That Christmas happened Why Christmas happened Only then can we really get in to the Christmas spirit! This message ends with a challenge to respond to Christmas by identif...
In this final talk in our mini series on Prayer, we think through the practical aspects of doing prayer.Main TextsLuke 11:2-4, 11-13 SpeakerDavid Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKEhttps://foundationchurchbelfast.com/...
How should we come to God in prayer? What should our attitude or stance be? The Bible paints a stirring picture of prayer. In the New Testament we see five facets as we approach prayer:BoldnessDevotionPersistentFaith-filledEarnest The sermon...
Prayer begins with an invitation to come to God and receive from him. Jesus said, 'Whoever is thirsty, come to me and I will give them living water.' In this message we examine Jesus' life-changing offer and ask how we might receive this living w...
Following on from one of Jesus' most amazing miracles - raising Lazarus from death - Mary gives Jesus an exquisite display of public honour and devotion. She pours costly ointment on Jesus' feet so that the whole house was filled with the fragrance....
Sermon from Glenn Wasson, member of Foundation Church Belfast. Main TextJohn 11:17-44 HOW TO GIVEhttps://foundationchurchbelfast.com/giving/ JOIN THE TEAMhttps://foundationchurch.churchsuite.com/forms/is7rpbef FOUNDATION CHURCH BELFASTEve...
Jesus brings life from the dust. The man born blind certainly experienced this. But following on from this remarkable healing, onlookers were more reserved about confessing their allegiance to Jesus. In these three groups, we discern three reasons why people reject faith in Jesus: However it’s only through a proper understanding and inner reception of […]
Jesus brings life from the dust. The man born blind certainly experienced this. But following on from this remarkable healing, onlookers were more reserved about confessing their allegiance to Jesus.In these three groups, we discern three reasons wh...
Matt Adams teaches on encountering Jesus as the Bread of Life.MAIN TEXTJohn 6:25-35 PREACHERMatt Adams, Immanuel Church Millisle HOW TO GIVEhttps://foundationchurchbelfast.com/giving/ JOIN THE TEAMhttps://foundationchurch.churchsuite.com/f...
A good shepherd is willing to do whatever it takes to cause his flock to flourish. He will do whatever it takes to defend them against their greatest enemies. This image is drawn upon by Jesus who calls himself The Good Shepherd. He lays his life d...
To the man who spent 38 years chronically unwell, poor, and a social outsider, Jesus asked, 'Do you want to be healed?' It sounds like an odd question - who wouldn't want to be healed? But rather than accepting help from Jesus immediately, the man ...
Jesus meets people sometimes when they least expect it. In this encounter a woman from Samaria was minding her own business, trying to get on with life, when Jesus showed up. He crosses divides in order for people to encounter him. And when he offe...
What is a born again Christian? Jesus teaches that to truly know God, it is essential that a person is born again. To a highly educated religious and political leader like Nicodemus, it was astonishing to hear that religious knowledge and practice...
One of Jesus' most famous miracles is turning water into wine. It was his first miracle and it happened at a wedding feast. Through turning water into wine, Jesus was demonstrating a fundamental move of God's work had arrived. The ceremonial water...
The book of Jonah ends with a cliff-hanger. The real reason for his running from God comes out and it's not pretty. Jonah appreciates and enjoys the mercy of God when it is directed towards him - and his people - but when God wants that mercy to ex...
The city of Nineveh responded immediately to Jonah's preaching - the message of God's justice and mercy. Repentance is a word frequently used in Christian spirituality, but what does it mean, and how do we actually DO repentance? Main TextJonah ...
Jonah cries out to God from the place of deep darkness. He thought his life was over but he cried out to God with what little remained. But as Jonah discovered, God heard his cry. And God not only hears the cry for help, God acts to send rescue.
Things have moved on a bit from Jonah's cultural context, but God has not changed. He still hears our cries for help in the dark and desperate circumstances we may find ourselves in.
The good news is that God not only hears, he enters your darkness, he reaches down and offers salvation.
Main TextJonah 2
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
How you can givehttps://foundationchurchbelfast.com/giving/
Join our teamhttps://foundationchurch.churchsuite.com/forms/is7rpbef
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Is it possible to experience the saving work of God in the middle of a storm? In this message we see how God shows mercy despite the best efforts of Jonah to run in the opposite direction.
Main TextJonah 1
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
How you can givehttps://foundationchurchbelfast.com/giving/
Join our teamhttps://foundationchurch.churchsuite.com/forms/is7rpbef
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
As we prepare for launch Sunday in our new building we are holding a special offering so we can complete our building renovation project.
In the build up to our special Gift Sunday we learn from the monumental offering at a key moment in Israel's history.
Exodus 35-36 recalls the account of the people's contribution to the building of the Tabernacle - the sacred meeting space where God would live among his people, and they could approach him in worship.
What inspired the people of Israel to give so sacrificially and lavishly to the mission of God? It was what God had already done for them, and what more he was going to do among them.
- What should we give?
- Who should give?
- Why should we give?
- How should we give?
How you can give Visit https://foundationchurchbelfast.com/giving/
Join our team https://foundationchurch.churchsuite.com/forms/is7rpbef
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Knockwood Crescent, Belfast, BT5 6GE
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Because the gospel powerfully advances:
- We will not be beat down
- We will attempt great things for God
Main TextActs 28:17-31
SpeakerDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
When we know God is with us, he:
- Instill Strength
- Deepens Solidarity
- Guarantees Success
As we move out on mission these promises will grow faith and hope to rise in us!
Main TextJoshua 1:1-18
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Jesus teaches that it is possible to know abouthim with actually knowing him. People can understand the core teachings of Christianity or even possess remarkable spiritual powers, but still not be true disciples of Jesus.
According to Jesus, only people who have experienced the New Birth (John 3:3) are true disciples of his.
In this teaching, we examine Jesus' huge challenge at the end of his Sermon on the Mount to look at our own relationship to Jesus, and ask ourselves if we resemble true or false disciples.
Bible TextMatthew 7:21-23
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
In order to lay hold of the gifts and blessings that God gives his people, Jesus teaches we must ask, seek, and knock as we come to God in prayer.In this message we consider:1. The Stance of Faith-Filled Prayer 2. The Source of Faith-Filled Prayer 3. The Community of Faith-Filled Prayer
Main TextMatthew 7:7-12SpeakerDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Glenn Wasson takes us through why and how we can trust God in place of our anxiety about the future.
Main TextMatthew 6:25-34
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
David Varney teaches on Jesus' words about judging others as part of our Life Togetherseries.
Speaking the truth in love means:
- Build Up Don't Tear Down
- Be Humble Before Helping
- Dialogue with Discernment
Main TextMatthew 7:1-6
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor of Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Jamie Bambrick teaches on maintaining an eternal perspective.
Main TextMatthew 6:19-24
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Psalms 42 & 43 give us a vivid description of someone who is experiencing a profound darkness - Spiritual Depression.
In this message we consider the nature, causes, and cures for Spiritual Depression.
Main TextPsalm 42-43
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor of Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Neil Keenan teaches on one of Jesus' most famous - and difficult - phrases: Love your enemies.
This teaching is part of our Life Togetherseries through Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.
Main TextMatthew 5:38-48
PreacherNeil Keenan, member of Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Sex is a gift from God that expresses and deepens the most profound human relationship - marking the spiritual union between a husband and wife.
Anything that weakens or undermines God's design for sex threatens the integrity of marriage, and of the wider community that it is part of.
In this sermon we examine Jesus' teaching on adultery and divorce.
Only through the gospel can we experience The Explusive Power of a New Affection -a more beautiful and fulfilling vision than any human experience has to offer - sex or otherwise.
Main TextMatthew 5:27-37
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Jesus deals with the problem of anger by pointing not only to the fruit of anger, but also the root.
Anger arises in the deepest part of us - the heart - and from there it takes hold, producing all kinds of destructive fruits.
Jesus gives us practical ways that we can work against anger by being deeply transformed by the gospel.
In the gospel, the righteous anger of God against our unrighteous anger fell on Jesus in our place. Once we understand and absorb this truth, we are transformed with power to pull up our anger by the root and build a deep community together.
Main TextMatthew 5:21-26
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Marc Scheibe teaches on the relationship between followers of Jesus and the law of God, as part of our Life Togetherseries.
Main TextMatthew 5:17-20
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
When we live Life Togetheras Jesus describes in the Beatitudes we shall live life together that changes the world.
Jesus teaches that his disciples will be salt and light - exercising a restraining effect against evil (salt) and yet reflecting goodness and beauty to the world (light).
Main TextMatthew 5:13-16
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
The Beatitudes are a collection of profound statements from Jesus to his disciples about how they can experience the kingdom of God together.
Together they give us a glimpse of what kingdom life is like. But they take us further still, offering us an experience of that kingdom life as we grow as disciples of Jesus.
Main TextMatthew 5:3-12
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
In this introductory sermon to the Life Togetherteaching series, we delve into the background of Jesus' ministry among the towns and villages of Galilee.
He embarks on his mission to show and tell about the kingdom of God through
- Teaching
- Proclamation
- Healing
His impact is profound and far-reaching, and very quickly he draws vast crowds. However, from among the crowds, Jesus is looking for disciples: people who would come after him, attach themselves to him, and learn from him.
Jesus continues this ministry through the church - his body on earth - and so there are significant practical applications for us as a local church in Belfast.
Main TextMatthew 4:23-5:2
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Hope is here: and it has real substance.
The Christian gospel is founded on more than a good idea, or nice thoughts. There are real reasons why we can experience deep hope:
- Hope is Rooted in Mercy
- Hope is Marked by the Spirit
- Hope Anticipates Total Salvation
- Hope Culimates in Worship
Main TextLuke 1:57-80
PreacherDavid Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family
Andrew Wright teaches as part of our Advent series Hope is Here.
Main TextLuke 1:39-56
PreacherAndrew Wright, member of Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church BelfastEvery Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
In this second talk in our advent series Hope is Here, we consider the astonishing announcement made to Mary about the coming Saviour King Jesus.
We see that God gives us hope:
- In Salvation
- Through Grace
- By Faith
Understanding and receiving each component is essential for us to experience and benefit from the promises that God gives us through Jesus.
Main Text Luke 1:26-38
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Hope is essential to life. No one can live without hope.
The Christian message says: Hope is Here!
In this series we examine the reason for hope as seen in the writings of Luke in his gospel account.
This first talk focuses on the first couple to hear that Hope is Here - the aging Zechariah and Elizabeth. They are told by an angelic messenger that God will give them a son in their twilight years - and he shall exercise a remarkable ministry in Israel.
He shall prepare the people for God - 'Hope is Here' he will preach with power.
If we are to have hope we must take the following four steps:
- Pursue Hope
- Understand Hope
- Believe Hope
- Celebrate Hope
Main Text Luke 1:5-25
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
David Varney finishes our series on the Ephesians 4 gifts: Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Shepherds, and Teachers.
In this message we examine how teaching plays out at Foundation Church and beyond:
- What is teaching?
- Who does teaching?
- Where do we need teaching?
- How do we do teaching?
Preacher David Varney, lead pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
David Varney talked about The How of Partnership as part of the Advance Movement - Ireland Conference.
David is the pastor of Foundation Church Belfast.
Advance is a movement of churches partnering together to plant and strengthen churches across the globe.
For more information about Advance visit https://www.advancemovement.com/
Matt Hosier speaks about the What and Why of Parternship as part of the Advance Movement - Ireland Conference, which took place on Saturday 5 November 2022.
Matt is lead pastor at Gateway Church in Poole, UK. He is also the Advance UK team leader.
Advance is a movement of churches partnering together to plant and strengthen churches across the globe.
For more information about Advance visit https://www.advancemovement.com/
Part four in our mini teaching series on the five catalytic gifts Jesus gives to the church based on Ephesians 4:11-13.
This message focuses on Shepherd.
- What is a Shepherd?
- Why do we need Shepherds?
- How do we Shepherd at Foundation Church?
Main Texts Psalm 23
Ezekiel 34
1 Peter 2:24-25
1 Peter 5:1-4
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Advance Movement Ireland Conference Saturday 5 November 2022: a day to learn and be inspired about partnering together to advance the gospel across the island of Ireland.
For more info and to book your tickets visit: https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/esh35ttx
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Evangelists tell the what, why and how of the gospel - the good news of Jesus. They are especially powerful and play a catalytic role in building the church, the body of Christ.
In this talk we consider the role of the Evangelist in today's church and see how it works at Foundation Church Belfast.
Main Text Acts 8:26-40
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Advance Movement Ireland Conference Saturday 5 November 2022: a day to learn and be inspired about partnering together to advance the gospel across the island of Ireland.
For more info and to book your tickets visit: https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/esh35ttx
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
Message from Paul Hoatson, lead pastor from One Hope Church, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
In this talk we examine the second of the catalytic gifts given by the ascended Jesus to establish and grow healthy churches: The Prophet.
We examine the biblical teaching on prophecy and consider:
- What is prophecy?
- How do prophetic gifts work within the church?
- How are we to use the prophetic gifts?
Main Scripture Passages Ephesians 4:7-13
Acts 13:1-3
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Advance Movement Ireland Conference Saturday 5 November 2022: a day to learn and be inspired about partnering together to advance the gospel across the island of Ireland.
For more info and to book your tickets visit: https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/esh35ttx
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
In this talk we examine the first of the catalytic gifts given by the ascended Jesus to establish and grow healthy churches: The Apostle.
We examine the biblical teaching on apostleship and consider:
- Who is an apostle?
- What does the apostolic ministry look like?
- How can we harness the apostolic as a church?
Main Scripture Passages Ephesians 4:1-16
Mark 3:15-15
1 Corinthians 15:5-7
2 Corinthians 11:23-27
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Advance Movement Ireland Conference Saturday 5 November 2022: a day to learn and be inspired about partnering together to advance the gospel across the island of Ireland.
For more info and to book your tickets visit: https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/esh35ttx
Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
In this talk we examine the first of the catalytic gifts given by the ascended Jesus to establish and grow healthy churches: The Apostle.
We examine the biblical teaching on apostleship and consider: * Who is an apostle? * What does the apostolic ministry look like? * How can we harness the apostolic as a church?
Main Scripture Passages Ephesians 4:1-16
Mark 3:13-15
1 Corinthians 15:5-7
2 Corinthians 11:23-27 Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Advance Movement Ireland Conference Saturday 5 November 2022: a day to learn and be inspired about partnering together to advance the gospel across the island of Ireland.
For more info and to book your tickets visit: https://advancemovementuk.churchsuite.com/events/esh35ttx Foundation Church Belfast Every Sunday 10:30am - Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3LS.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches and the wider Newfrontiers family.
In this personal message, David Varney teaches on the Four Seasons of Church Life as understood from the perspective of Israel's experience.
In Deuteronomy, Moses addresses the entire covenant community before they cross over the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land.
Church planting can sometimes feel like a long period in the wilderness, but we see from Deuteronomy 8 that there is purpose in the wilderness - God means for us to grow in humility and faith, to depend on him above everything else in life.
Wilderness is not fun, but it is necessary. It is only there that growth in humility and faith can truly develop.
In this sermon we discuss each of the four seasons a church may find itself in, and think about how we may progress towards longterm health and multiplication.
- Wilderness
- Established
- Declining
- Death
Main Text Deuteronomy 8:1-20
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches:
https://www.advancemovement.com/
Follow us https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
In this personal message, David Varney teaches on the Four Seasons of Church Life as understood from the perspective of Israel's experience.
In Deuteronomy, Moses addresses the entire covenant community before they cross over the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land.
Church planting can sometimes feel like a long period in the wilderness, but we see from Deuteronomy 8 that there is purpose in the wilderness - God means for us to grow in humility and faith, to depend on him above everything else in life.
Wilderness is not fun, but it is necessary. It is only there that growth in humility and faith can truly develop.
In this sermon we discuss each of the four seasons a church may find itself in, and think about how we may progress towards longterm health and multiplication. 1. Wilderness 2. Established 3. Declining 4. Death
Main Text Deuteronomy 8:1-20 Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches. Follow us https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
In this sermon we reflect on the life of Queen Elizabeth II who died on Thursday 8 September 2022, Britain's longest-reigning monarch.
Throughout her life we have seen The Queen embody the Three Features of an Outsanding Monarch - one who:
-
Brings Unity
-
Shows Humility
-
Stirs Hope
The Queen modelled these features exceptionally well, yet even the greatest leaders in history are only able to have limited impact as their reign inevitably comes to an end.
However, central to the Christian faith of the Queen was her hope in a greater monarch than herself - one who has a far more profound and enduring impact.
St. Paul points us to Christ the King, the one who left the magnificence of heaven to come down to his people - becoming one of them - and then dying in their place. The consequences of his actions on their behalf are world-shaping, and inspire deep hope and profound unity among us.
Main Text Philippians 2:1-11
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches: https://www.advancemovement.com/
Follow us https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
In this sermon we reflect on the life of Queen Elizabeth II who died on Thursday 8 September 2022, Britain's longest-reigning monarch.
Throughout her life we have seen the Queen embody the Three Features of an Outsanding Monarch - one who:
-
Brings Unity
-
Shows Humility
-
Stirs Hope
The Queen modelled these features exceptionally well, yet even the greatest leaders in history are only able to have limited impact as their reign inevitably comes to an end.
However, central to the Christian faith of the Queen was her hope in a greater monarch than herself - one who has a far more profound and enduring impact.
St. Paul points us to Christ the King, the one who left the magnificence of heaven to come down to his people - becoming one of them - and then dying in their place. The consequences of his actions on their behalf are world-shaping, and inspire deep hope and profound unity among us. Main Text Philippians 2:1-11 Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches: https://www.advancemovement.com/ Follow us https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast/ https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
Rest is highly elucive for many people today.
This Heart Song from Psalm 4 is a cry for rest. The lyrics examine some of the root causes of a lack of rest before meditating on the actions of God that can lead us to profound rest.
The sermon ends on some practical steps towards integrating crucial yet simple rhythms of rest into busy lives.
Main Text Psalm 4
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
When we see or experience injustice - whether personally or observe it elsewhere in the world - we naturally sense an inner anger towards it. We ask, 'How can this be tolerated?' 'How can they get away with it?' 'Where is God in all this?'
In Psalm 10, the song-writer laments the injustice in the world around him. We are given words to use ourselves to give expression to our outrage and grief at injustice.
We are not left there however. In this Psalm we also see a God who acts against injustice, taking huge steps to punish oppressors and provide comfort for the oppressed.
This message ends outlining five practices we can use to help overcome injustice:
- Learn to lament
- Swing the focus onto God's justice
- Seek justice not payback
- Be humbled by the gospel of Jesus
- Experience progressive restoration
Main Text Psalm 10
Speaker David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
Follow us:
https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast
https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches: https://www.advancemovement.com/
In this song we see the ways that God makes himself known to us. God beckons us to come to him and know him intimately. As such he points us to the heavens which continually celebrate the greatness of God.
Furthermore, God reveals his heart and his will through his word.
In this message we think through ways we can slow down and hear God's voice as he calls us deeper in to him.
Main Text Psalm 19
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Everyone longs for intimacy. To know and be known is part of what makes us human.
In this ancient Hebrew song we hear the yearning of the songwriter's heart for God. As we examine the lyrics, we can see more of what intimacy with God looks like, and why we might desire it for ourselves.
Finally we consider three realms where intimacy can be allowed to blossom: corporate, personal, and communal.
We need each other as we progress ever deeper into the heart of God.
Main Text Psalm 27
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
Follow us:
https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast
https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches: https://www.advancemovement.com/
Message from Johnny Carson, pastor of The Way Church Ballyclare.
Main Text Luke 10:21-24
Churches Partnering Together to Plant and Strengthen Churches We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches: https://www.advancemovement.com/
Churches can turn in on themselves becoming inward looking and consumed by what is taking place within the walls.
At the conclusion of his letter to Titus, the Apostle Paul sketches the ways that a church can avoid this. According to him, staying impactful on mission requires:
- translocal ministry support
- a deep experience of grace
As an apostle, Paul is concerned to plant and strengthen healthy churches. He brings in kingdom reinforcements to minister to the churches as they progress in maturity and influence.
However, fundamental to this is the need for a deep experience of God's grace, a theme that Paul returns to throughout the letter.
God is shaping Foundation Church Belfast to becoming a sending church, raising up those with apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic, shepherding and teaching gifts to minister to churches across Belfast and all Ireland.
Main Text Titus 3:12-15
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
Follow us:
https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast
https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches: https://www.advancemovement.com/
Enjoying Healthy Community To develop and deepen healthy community, it is essential that we are united. In this sermon, we see that the church is to be united for good works and against division.
When we share this common unity and passion, a powerful community develops that points onlookers past ourselves and towards Jesus - the one who forms and empowers us as his people. Main Text Titus 3:8-12 Preacher Andrew Wright, member of Foundation Church Belfast Foundation Church Belfast We are a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation.
Follow us:
https://www.facebook.com/foundationchurchbelfast https://www.instagram.com/foundationchurchbelfast/
We are part of the Advance Movement of churches, partnering together in Ireland and across the globe to plant and strengthen churches: https://www.advancemovement.com/
Christians are meant to be the best citizens and co-workers out there. That may be true for some, but not all.
It is possible to use good works to boost one's own reputation rather than God's, robbing good works of their own goodness. They simply become a tool to build one's platform.
St. Paul points us to the astounding gospel of Jesus as the power for transformation and basis of our actions in the world. Main Text Titus 3:1-8 Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Message by Glenn Wasson, member of Foundation Church Belfast.
Main Text
Titus 2:11-15
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Foundation Church Belfast is a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation. For more information visit www.foundationchurchbelfast.com
How we interact with one another in the church carries attractional power before the onlooking world. According to St. Paul, the quality of our ordinary relationships beautifies the gospel of Jesus.
That elevates the importance of our relational connection.
And a community that is committed to pursuing relational depth and quality becomes radically ordinary.
Yes, we're talking about ordinary relationships (older men, older women, younger women, younger men etc.) but if we follow Paul's teaching, our relationships become radically ordinary.
Main Text
Titus 2:1-10
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
----more----
Foundation Church Belfast is a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation. For more information visit www.foundationchurchbelfast.com
The problem with an absence of good leadership is not no leadership but bad leadership.
Before elders were identified and commissioned in the new churches in Crete, fake teachers had crept in to the leadership vacuum, sensing an opportunity to build a stage for themselves.
These fake teachers use religious language to manipulate their hearers, yet the result is disunity and weakening of the missional impact of the church.
St. Paul outlines the ways we can detect fake teachers and helps us to guard against them and their damaging content.
Main Text
Titus 1:10-16
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast is a gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission. We meet every Sunday 10:30am Belmont Tower, Belfast, BT4 3FG.
Our vision is to catalyse the gospel transformation of our city and nation. For more information visit www.foundationchurchbelfast.com
An interview with David and Herma Adams from Jubilee Community Church, Cape Town.
Jubilee Church is part of the Advance Movement of churches.
An interview with John and Kristen Murphy from Frontline Church, Fayetteville, NC.
Frontline Church is part of the Advance Movement of Churches.
John Murphy from Frontline Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina preaches from Psalm 51.
Frontline Church and Foundation Church Belfast are part of the Advance Movement of Churches: a global partnership of churches that exist to plant and strengthen churches.
The empty tomb is first discovered by three women. They visited prepared with anointing spices, expecting to find a corpse. What they found changed the course of world history.
In this somewhat abrupt ending to Mark's gospel account, we can detect three outstanding phrases that stop us in our tracks:
- "Jesus of Nazareth"
Of all the titles the angel could have referred to Jesus, he chose to identify him as a man from a small town. He was in many ways, just like us. Yet this has dramatic implications for how we view the resurrection, and it's relevance for us. If a human being can come alive after death, then maybe there is hope for us.
- "And Peter"
Peter had failed Jesus miserably, denying him emphatically in public three times. Yet the angel's special inclusion "and Peter" showed that even someone who has radically denied Jesus and rejected him can be restored. That is great news for those of us who think we are too bad or lost for Jesus to take us back. These two words suggest otherwise.
- "He is going ahead of you"
The resurrection was not the end of the story, but can be understood as the opening of a new chapter. There was a mission that the disciples were called and trained for. And now Jesus regathers the team to send them out on a live mission. Training is over.
Yet his disciples know that Jesus goes ahead of them; mission is effectively following Jesus wherever he takes us. This grows courage and fortitude as we continue the mission he calls all disciples to participate in.
Main Text
Mark 16:1-8
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
As we journey towards the climactic moment of Mark's gospel account - the cross of Christ, we are confronted with the challenges of living God's truth in a world that doesn't want to hear it.
Today we are faced with a radical choice - embrace and live out the truth of God, just as Jesus did; or abstract ourselves from the truth and find safety in denial, just like Peter.
Our vision at Foundation Church Belfast is to catalyse gospel transformation in our city and nations through resourcing, renewal, and replication. (Read more about our vision here.)
But what if that we knew that vision would only come to pass with suffering? Would we still be enthusiastic lay our lives down for the cause of Christ and the coming kingdom across Ireland?
This text challenges an unbalanced approach to the mission of the church, but gives us great motivation to serve God radically.
In this message we see:
- The Model of Living the Truth;
- The Warning of Living the Truth;
- The Challenge of Living the Truth
Main Text
Mark 14:53-72
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Jamie Bambrick preaches from Mark 14 as part of our series, The Gospel According to Mark.
In the Christian gospel Jesus invites us to a feast. We are invited not only to feast with him but feast on him.
Hours before he went to the cross Jesus hosted a feast with his closest friends. He held out bread and said, 'This is my body.' And also the wine, 'This is my blood.'
Through faith Christ gives us unrivalled spiritual nourishment and satisfaction. This is summed up through the eucharist (aka communion, Lord's Supper).
However, as with ordinary food, this spiritual food can be abused or avoided, both to our detriment.
Only when we understand Christ and the gospel can we delight in that spiritual food.
Main Text
Mark 14:12-31
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
One of the ways you can know you have encountered the real Jesus is that he provokes within you a reaction.
In the Gospel According to Mark, we never observe people who encounter Jesus and remain unchanged.
In this message we see Jesus provokes: * extravagant devotion * extravagant dismissal * extravagant demonstration
Main Text
Mark 14:1-11
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
The End of the Age
Jesus had predicted the downfall of the Temple in Jerusalem, and his disciples wanted more details about the precise nature of when and how all this would happen.
But Jesus gave them more than they bargained for, extending his predictions to cover not only the destruction of the Temple, but the signs of the end of the age.
Rather than panic or grow complacent, Jesus tells his disciples across all times: * God is Sovereign * Jesus is Coming * We are on mission
Main Text
Mark 13:1-37
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Foundation Church Belfast
A gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered community on mission.
Join us for our next gathering - Sundays 10:30am Belmont Tower, BT4 3FG.
Many looking at the church from outside can identify hypocrites - people who call themselves Christian but live as if it makes no difference to them. Outsiders may understandably conclude that the church is like this always.
However, the truth is far more complex. Jesus identifies two forms of religion - fake and real. Fake religion is all words, projections, and power-plays; people using religion to get what they want.
Real religion is substantially different. It flows from within a person who loves God entirely ('heart, soul, mind and strength' as Jesus put it).
So how to do we distinguish fake religion from the real thing? People inside and outside the church need to know. Jesus addresses this question in his final piece of public teaching before he goes to the cross.
Main Text
Mark 12:38-44
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
For many people, religion is considered to consist of various dos and don'ts. But which rule is the most important?
Religious and non-religious people often live by a code... a fundamental rule for living:
Treat others as you want to be treated.
You be you.
Live life to the full.
Jesus was asked what he thought the fundamental rule for all of life should be. His answer may surprise you, and challenge the notion that religion is about the dos and don'ts.
In this message we see * the heart of religion * the problem of religion * the gospel of religion
Main text
Mark 12:28-37
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Gospel-Centred | Spirit-Empowered | Community on Mission
As we celebrate our fifth anniversary as Foundation Church Belfast, we reflect on how God has worked among us and humbly anticipate he will continue to do more in the years ahead.
When we look at the Bible, we see God interacting with his people along similar lines. At this seminal moment in the formation of his covenant people on Mount Sinai, we see:
- God works by calling
- God works by cleansing
- God works by communing
- God works by commissioning
Main Text Exodus 24:1-18 & 25:1-8
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Jesus's critics are at it again. This time they employ cunning and flattery to attempt to trap Jesus in his words.
They bring up the question of taxation. Should God's people pay taxes to the foreigners occupying their land? Answer yes and Jesus would rapidly lose support of the people. Say no and he would land himself in hot water with the Roman authorities.
But Jesus replies to his enemies with devastating brilliance - 'Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.'
How we handle money requires a clear understanding of these two basic realms - the kingdom of Caesar and the kingdom of God. A follower of Jesus is a citizen of both realms and so has responsibilites and opportunities within each.
In this message we see:
- How to live well in the kingdom of Caesar
- How to live well in the kingdom of God
- How to avoid harmful polarisation
Main Text Mark 12:13-17
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Jesus is seen as a threat by the upper hierarchy of the ruling religious leadership.
They were not there to welcome Jesus as he made his anti-climactic 'triumphal entry' a few days earlier. Their silence at his official arrival spoke volumes.
Now we see the first in a series of clashes between Jesus and the various religious parties that held sway in the religion of the day.
Their accusations can be boiled down to one loaded question: Who do you think you are? Who gave you the right to behave like this?
They didn't like his authority.
In this message we see:
- The authority of Jesus challenged
- The authority of Jesus suppressed
- The authority of Jesus vindicated
Main text Mark 11:27 - 12:12
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Fake religion is a widespread problem. It convinces adherents that they are right with God and yet it lacks the power to produce profound transformation. Fake religion ultimately produces hypocrites.
In this episode we see Jesus tackle fake religion head on. First through his prophecy-sign, cursing the fig tree that was all show and no fruit. Then he entered the Jerusalem temple and temporarily halted the religious machinery. It too was all show and no fruit.
Jesus's actions highlight these three challenges to the contemporary church:
- The Problem of Fake Religion
- The Traits of Fake Religion
- The Alternative to Fake Religion
Main Text Mark 11:12-25
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
The community at Foundation Church Belfast is centred around one person - Jesus. What he said and did has profound implications for our life together. As we are a community shaped on this remarkable figure, it makes good sense to learn as much as we can about him so that we might be deeply influenced by him.
Our studies in the Gospel According to Mark help us learn about Jesus from the earliest sources about his life and work.
In this message we examine the section known as 'The Triumphal Entry' - Jesus's official arrival and entry into Jerusalem. However his arrival was something of an anti-climax, with the crowds quickly dissapating after an early bit of excitement.
Was this just really bad timing? Does Jesus disappoint people like this today?
For many people, his arrival into Jerusalem could have been Jesus's moment of glory and he blew it. However for Jesus, it was just another step towards his true moment of glory - his death on the cross and his resurrection from the dead.
The cross helps us deal with any disappointment we may experience in life.
Listen for more insights.
Main text Mark 11:1-11
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
No one can survive without hope.
As one ancient voice proclaimed, 'Hope deferred makes the heart sick.'
There is so much in life that can rob us of hope. Yet God spoke a message of hope to a hopeless bunch of people which still carries power and clarity to us today.
In Zechariah 9:9-13 we see three reasons for hope this Christmas: 1. It won't always be like this 2. Hope has a name 3. Your life count
If we understand and absorb these three headlines, we shall notice hope rising from within.
The coming king that the prophet Zechariah pointed to has come to his people - at Christmas Jesus the King came to save his people.
When we see that he did this for us, hope is planted and begins to grow.
Main text
Zechariah 9:9-13
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Baptism is a powerful moment that shapes and defines the Christian faith. At its heart, baptism points to the profound spiritual connection between Jesus and his people.
In baptism we see what happened to Jesus, happens to us. Through faith, a believer has died with Christ, and is already set free from the power of sin. Likewise, through faith, the believer will also be raised with Christ - the hope of the resurrection life.
Both the past event of the cross of Christ and the future hope of our resurrection impact our present reality: Guilt is gone! Power to overcome sin! Hope even in the face of sorrow!
This sets up a community of people who are centred around Christ, and united by their baptism. We are a community on mission at Foundation Church Belfast, helping one another live out the implications of our baptism and drawing on the huge resources that God sends through his Son Jesus.
Main Text Romans 6:1-11
Preacher David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
The final message in our mini series examining the key practices that shape our gatherings at Foundation Church Belfast.
Main Text
1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 13:1-14:1
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
We look at what the Bible teaches about healing and how it should function in the local church. Part of our series investigating the key commitments and practices that shape our worship gatherings at Foundation Church Belfast.
Main Scripture Text
James 5:13-16
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Part four in our mini-series examining the key commitments and practices that shape our gatherings at Foundation Church Belfast.
Main Text
1 Corinthians 12:7-11 and 1 Corinthians 14:1-5
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Check out these related resources:
- How the Spirit of God and the Word of God Builds the People of God
- Spiritual Darkness and Spiritual Power
Next up in our six-part mini series which examines the key commitments and practices of Foundation Church Belfast - Belonging.
Main Text
1 Corinthians 12:12-20
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Next up in our mini series examining the key commitments and practices of Foundation Church Belfast - The Sacraments.
Main Text
Acts 2:36-43
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
In this mini series we examine six ways that God grows the church.
First up - the Word of God.
Main text
Isaiah 55:8-13
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Sex possesses huge power. It can be used constructively to express and deepen the most fundamental human relationship. But its power can be used destructively and be a source of great pain and breakdown.
In this message we hear Jesus' teaching on sex, marriage and see how it all connects to his overall vision of the kingdom of God. We see:
- The Controversy of Sex and Marriage
- The Vision of Sex and Marriage
- The Reality of Sex and Marriage
- The Gospel of Sex and Marriage
Main Text
Mark 10:1-12
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
No sooner had Jesus predicted his own death and resurrection the disciples began debating between themselves: Who is the greatest?
Greatness in the kingdom of God is not what they thought. Sitting down, Jesus took the opportunity to teach three values that advance the kingdom:
- Greatness
- Unity
- Influence
All three can be used powerfully to advance the kingdom of God. Yet each one is understood very differently by the world. This is especially important for us as a church in Belfast if we are to see God's kingdom advance in our generation.
Our vision at Foundation Church Belfast is to catalyse gospel transformation in our city and beyond through resourcing, renewal, and replication.
Main Text
Mark 9:33-50
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Check out these related resources:
- Our vision at Foundation Church Belfast
- Three Qualities of an Extraordinarily Effective Kingdom Builder
In this talk we tackle a challenging topic - the presence and reality of evil spiritual entities, namely demons. It's a challenging topic, not because the Bible has nothing to say about it. Rather it's a challenge because we don't talk much about it in our Western context. We don't possess a category for evil spirits, far less acknowledge their presence.
Outside of the cultural West this is not the case. Many, if not most non-Western cultures readily accept the presence of the spirit world, a world that exists and interacts with our own.
When the Kingdom of God advances we observe a clash with the kingdom of this world, the kingdom of darkness. Yet the Kingdom of God is supreme because Jesus the king is victorious over all his enemies - sin, death and the devil.
Yet the Bible equips us with wisdom about how we can recognise the presence of the demonic and how to deal with it when we are exposed to it, particularly when praying with others.
In this message we see:
- The Kingdom of God Clashes
- The Kingdom of God Pushes
- The Kingdom of God Received
- The Kingdom of God Applied
Main Text
Mark 9:14-29
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
The disciples were having a difficult time accepting the totality of Jesus' teaching. They like bits of it, but not all of it.
So the inner circle of followers were invited up a mountain with Jesus and there they witnessed a clear revelation from God - Jesus is the Son of God - listen to him.
Yet on their way down to normality they continued to grapple with all that the Hebrew Bible taught about Jesus - he is the glorious Son but also the suffering Son of Man. His divine status and his humble suffering on the cross were united in one person.
Too often in religion people adopt a pick and choose approach. They embrace the 'good bits' for themselves but fail to see that Jesus cannot be split into two. He is either as the Bible tells us - Son of Man and Son of God - or he is none of these things.
In this message we think through the implications that Jesus is both Son of God and Son of Man and renew our vision of him in line with the Bible's message.
Main Text
Mark 9:2-13
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Message by Jamie Bambrick, part of our Summer at Foundation series.
Main Text
Mark 10:17-22
Message by David Smyth as part of our Summers at Foundation teaching series. David leads the team at Evangelical Alliance NI.
Message by Chris McBurney at Foundation Church Belfast.
Part of our series The Gospel According to Mark.
Religion is a dangerous concept. We know this to be painfully true in Northern Ireland, a land where generations of conflict has had an overtly religious tone.
In this passage we see Jesus taking on the hypocritical, organised, formal religion of his day. Yet from the other side of the tracks we see the beauty of religion being displayed as a religious outsider discovers the fundamental point of faith.
Main Text
Mark 7:1-30
Speaker
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
By miraculously walking on water, Jesus revealed his divine presence to the Apostles. Yet their reaction was not a worshipful joy and humility; rather it was panic and terror.
Their reaction revealed their functional understanding of Jesus on a profound level. Whilst they heard his teaching and saw his miracles, they did not possess the spiritual and psychological framework for understanding what was right in front of them - Jesus is both human and God.
Yet for us the divine presence of Jesus is still available. In fact God promises to meet us in ordinary and extraordinary circumstances: through the Word of God, the sacraments and the prayers; but also through visions, dreams and prophetic insights.
As a church we are called to gladly receive all these gifts as God intends to demonstrate his presence to us, joining his Holy Spirit to these ordinary and extraordinary means.
Main Text
Mark 6:45-52
Sermon By
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Check out these related sermons by David Varney from our Prayer series:
Prayer: Invitation
Prayer: Approach
Prayer: Praxis
Teaching from Chris McKinven, one of the eldership team at The Way Church Ballyclare.
Main Text
Luke 11:1-13
King Herod liked to project himself as a strong and competent leader, but in reality he was anything but this. He wanted to rule a magnificent kingdom of his own making, but his desire for power ended up controlling him.
In this episode we see a weak individual being manipulated by powerful forces acting on him: family, romance, sex, and approval.
These same forces are still prevalent in our own experience and they play a significant role in how we acquire and use power.
We can either use these as gifts to build God's kingdom, or we can use them to build our own. One way we utilise these gifts will free us to become radically generous as we create something significant and enduring outside of ourselves. The other utilisation will end up enslaving us and controlling us as Herod found out.
Main Bible Text
Mark 6:14-29
Speaker
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Check out the following related resources:
Article: Our Vision at Foundation Church Belfast
Sermon: Planting and Strengthening Churches
Message by Jamie Bambrick, part of our teaching series at Foundation Church: The Gospel According to Mark
Main Text
Mark 6:1-13
In this episode from Mark's Gospel we see the effects of faith in the healing power of Jesus.
He ministers to a diversity of people, yet always from his heart of compassion and love to restore them to wholeness.
Jesus is among us by his Holy Spirit and so continues his healing work through the church, his body on earth.
Main Bible Text
Mark 5:21-43
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
We look at a neglected yet formative part of our worship and spirituality - lamenting.
The Bible gives us a pattern of how to bring our sorrow to God.
Marc Scheibe opens up Lamentations 5.
As the kingdom of God comes through the person and work of Jesus of Nazareth, we see the kingdom of darkness pushing back in opposition. As the clash of the kingdoms ensues, demonic powers are no match for the power and authority of Jesus.
However to our Western ears, talk of demons and demon-oppression is very odd. We have little space in our concept of reality - our worldview - for demons and unclean spirits etc. We assume these are part of a pre-technological, pre-scientific society, the stuff of fable and folk religion.
Despite our cultural myopia, non-Western concepts of reality have no trouble accepting the role that demons or spirits play in the common human experience. This should at least cause us to doubt the confidence we have in our own Western worldview.
In this episode we see that the liberating power of Jesus:
- Overthrows
- Disturbs
- Frees
- Empowers
Main Bible Text
Mark 5:1-20
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Jesus performs his most powerful miracle so far in the Gospel of Mark - the calming of the storm.
As we see, this sign is part of Jesus' overall mission to reveal to his disciples his true identity. Through healings and exorcisms Jesus has shown he has authority over the forces of evil.
However in the calming of the storm Jesus shows he has mastery over the created order itself. He literally rebukes the wind and seas and they obey his word.
The disciples are dumbfounded and scared, asking 'who is this man?' They knew that only God can speak to creation and it listens.
Jesus' mastery over the storm points to his authority over all storms. We may experience the peace and security found in him when we see how Jesus faced the greatest storm through his death on the cross. Yet his resurrection showed his authoritative word is ultimate.
In this message we see:
- Jesus is present IN the storm
- Jesus is powerful OVER the storm
- Jesus is proclaimed BY the storm
Main text
Mark 4:35-41
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Check out these related resources:
Sermon: Security, Peace and Hope in God - Psalm 46
Jesus expands his teaching on the Kingdom of God through a further series of parables. Most of his teaching about the Kingdom of God was given in parables which played a dual role:
To those hungry for more the parables were the door which opened hearers to the Kingdom of God.
But to those who were on the outside, who didn't want to know Jesus, the parables served as a barrier, closing access to the Kingdom.
In this message we learn that the Kingdom of God is:
- Revealed through hearing
- Cultivated by God
- Advanced in power
Main text
Mark 4:21-35
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
In order to understand Jesus on his own terms it is essential that we understand his teaching. As we have seen in the previous sermon in this series, Jesus' signs and wonders are open to gross misrepresentation unless they are understood in union with his explanations.
And so in this familiar parable of the sower, Jesus demonstrates that his teaching is immediately accessible, and yet many fail to truly embrace the implications of what he claims.
Moreover, the teaching of Jesus acts as a key - opening the kingdom of God to some who hear, and yet closing the kingdom to others.
In this sermon we consider the various responses that hearers of Jesus' teaching can make, culminating in the one who hears the message, accepts it, and bears astounding kingdom fruit.
Main Bible Text
Mark 4:1-20
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Check out the following related resources:
- Read Our Vision: Foundation Church Belfast describes our vision for catalysing gospel transformation of our city and nation
- Listen The Kingdom of God: Authority, Mission, Calling
Opposition to Jesus and the Christian faith comes from diverse quarters. In this sermon we consider two dramatically different forms of opposition to Jesus: the Scribes who are direct and aggressive against Jesus, relying on the ad hominem approach; and second, Jesus' own family.
This latter group are a surprising source of opposition. They are very familiar with Jesus, comfortable that they know all they need to know. Yet they attempt to block Jesus' kingdom ministry by thinking they know better.
Whether direct and aggressive, or comfortably familiar, opposition to Jesus is seen commonly today. The first form generally appear on TV or social media, whereas the second form are found seated on church pews across the country.
Jesus answers both forms of opposition differently. We can learn from his responses and consider how we may use a similar approach as we answer opposition to Jesus and the Christian faith.
Bible Text
Mark 3:20-35
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Recommended resource: Tactics by Greg Koukl
In Tactics, Gregory Koukl demonstrates how to artfully regain control of conversations, keeping them moving forward in constructive ways through thoughtful diplomacy. You'll learn how to maneuver comfortably and graciously through the minefields of a challenging discussion and how to get people thinking about Jesus.
Jesus calls his Apostles to be with him and commissions them to be sent out to minister in his name. He gives them his authoritative word to preach and his authoritative power to push back the kingdom of darkness.
As go the Apostles, so goes the church. The call to Apostleship is first a call to discipleship, to respond and follow after Jesus.
So much what we read in this passage applies to all followers of Jesus, all across time.
But how to we respond to the Apostles today? In what sense is the church to be considered 'apostolic'? And is there a role for apostolically-gifted people today? How does Foundation Church Belfast listen to apostolic voices both ancient and contemporary?
Main Texts
Mark 3:13-19
Ephesians 4:11-13
1 Corinthians 12:28
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Jesus often clashed with the religious establishment of his day. His teaching and miracles drew the criticism of many religious leaders who were less than pleased to see such authoritative teaching and power at work.
Yet crowds of ordinary people flocked to him, desperate to hear his words or to experience his healing power.
In this sermon we see vastly contrasting reactions to Jesus' authoritative power and word. He evokes hostility as well as hunger in people.
Hostility often comes when we don't think we need Jesus. In fact, we are most hostile when we see Jesus as a threat to our way of life, our foundational beliefs and system of thought.
However we are most hungry for Jesus when we realise how much we need him. When come to Jesus and understand we have nothing to lose, and everything to gain, we step into his love and receive his power.
Main Text
Mark 2:23-3:12
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
This Resurrection Sunday we dial right down to the ultimate question: how can messed up human beings get right with a perfect, loving and holy God.
The answer is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through faith in him, God counts us as righteous - right in his sight, pleasing to him.
When we understand the mechanics of faith we realise this is immensely freeing. No more striving to get into God's good books, no more cynicism that there's no point, no more frantic religious activity to maintain good terms.
No, it's all been provided for us by Jesus. We receive the gift by opening the empty hands of faith.
Main Bible Text
Romans 4:23-5:1
Preacher
David Varney, leader Foundation Church Belfast
For more information on our vision check out this post: Our Vision at Foundation Church
Many people are facing severe trials and hardships already as we begin the new year.
However Psalm 3 provides us a model of how to process our trials in a way that is constructive and not destructive. Here are the four steps we can take to move from trial to triumph:
- Present
- Confess
- Experience
- Empower
Therefore handled wisely our trials can actually open us up to fresh experiences of God and invigorated faith in him.
Main passage
Psalm 3:1-8
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%203&version=ESVUK
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Check out these related messages:
How to Pray Powerful Prayers from the series Real Religion
Authority Over Sickness and Sin from the series The Gospel According to Mark
Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of God is different in substance from anything that goes before it.
Our behaviour and actions are determined by the context of which system we live under.
If we live in the Kingdom of God, we should be more at home with celebration and joy. There is a place for fasting and solemnity but our overarching stance should be one of enjoyment.
However the Kingdom of God contradicts any system or structure that we may adopt. Therefore Jesus teaches you can't simply tack on the kingdom of God to our existing belief system or way of life - this only leads to eventual damage and destruction.
Listen to how the CONTEXT of the Kingdom and the CONTRADICTION of the Kingdom make real differences to our everyday lives in gospel community.
Main text
Mark 2:18-22
Preacher
David Varney, leader Foundation Church Belfast
What kind of person needs Jesus? Who should follow him? And how should someone go about that?
St. Mark describes a dinner party that Jesus was a guest of. He had recently met and called Levi to join his group of followers - a community Jesus was building to learn from him. A group that would one day take his message and his mighty works, and go and tell the world what he has done.
Levi was a tax collector. In that day it meant he was regarded as a scum-bag, a colluder with the Roman state, a traitor of his own people. Religious people despised him.
But Jesus saw something else. He saw someone who needed to know God, to know that he was forgiven. Levi needed to discover who Jesus is and what he can do.
So Levi, after encountering Jesus, invited all his friends and 'associates' round for a dinner party. His fellow tax collectors and other dubious contacts. However rather than resenting Jesus attending the party, they loved it!
At Foundation Church Belfast we are growing to become a community deeply shaped by the gospel of Jesus. We'd love you to join us on mission.
Bible Text
Mark 2:13-17
Speaker
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
You might also like to check out these related messages:
Our Missional Vision - from the series Advancing the Gospel
Life From the Dust - from the series Encounters with Jesus
In this sermon we see further examples of Jesus' primary message: 'The Kingdom of God is coming!'
Here we are shown that Jesus claims authority not only over sickness but his authority to forgive sins.
This authority has a polarising effect: it will either attract or repel (as all forms of authority do). We see the healed man and his friends aware of Jesus' authority - and they go straight to him for help and restoration.
Yet we also see the response of the religious scholars. They are unsettled by Jesus' claims about himself. He represents too much of a challenge to their belief systems and way of life.
We take time to think about how to respond to Jesus today as well as consider whether miraculous healings are available for us in the contemporary church.
Main text
Mark 2:1-12
Preacher
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Check out these related sermons:
How to Pray Powerful Prayers - from the Real Religion series.
Evangelism - from the 9 Marks of a Healthy Church series.
The implications of the teaching and signs of Jesus are far reaching.
In this sermon we examine the first day of Jesus' ministry following his baptism, Spirit-empowerment and temptation.
We see him teaching in the local Synagogue; his listeners astonished at his authoritative words. We see him clashing with the kingdom of darkness - demons are cast out with a word from him.
All this is set on the backdrop of Jesus' own stated mission - to preach the kingdom of God has come near, and to demonstrate what it looks like.
As we consider all this we realise there are massive implications for the contemporary church. If we at Foundation Church Belfast are to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and his disciples, then our prayers, our vision, the way we organise ourselves - all of this must be shaped by Jesus' own mission - to show and tell the kingdom of God.
Main text: Mark 1:21-39
Speaker: David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Check out the following related sermons:
Spiritual Darkness and Spiritual Power - from the series Advancing the Gospel
Three Qualities of an Extraordinarily Effective Kingdom Builder - from the series Restoration
St. Mark takes us to some highly significant moments at the start of Jesus' ministry: his baptism, his forty days of temptation, and his preaching.
All of these snapshots show us who Jesus claimed to be:
- He was the Son of God
- He was one of us
- He was Spirit-filled
- He was victorious
Integrated to his identity was also his mission - what he came to do. The headline message that he began to give was this:
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.
Mark 1:15 ESV
Proclamation of the kingdom of God was only part of it. He came to call people to enter it, to become his disciples and follow him.
In this message we examine these key moments in Jesus' early ministry and think how they set the pace for us at Foundation Church Belfast as we pray, 'May your kingdom come.'
Main text: Mark 1:9-20
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
If you want to examine the claims of Jesus Christ to see if they have merit, start by studying the Gospel According to Mark.
Over the next few months we shall be examining the central teachings of Jesus as we read and think through passage by passage of Mark.
Many people who dismiss Christianity do so because of past experiences with the Church or with people who claim to be Christians. Rarely it is because they have taken time to read the primary sources, think through the claims of Christ, and conclude that he is not to be believed.
As a church in Belfast we want to have a sound grasp of the life and teachings of Jesus. It is important for believers in Jesus to come to ever-increasing understanding and experience of him in our own lives and in our community. As a community on mission we are built upon the person and work of Jesus, so knowing him better is essential to church health and vibrancy.
Main text: Mark 1:1-8.
Sermon by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
The Psalmist shows us that it is possible to experience peace and security in the middle of immense turmoil.
We access this profound resource through entering in to the kingdom city of God. This is not mere psychological escapism. Rather it is the solid promise of a God who has acted concretely in human history.
Jesus opens the way to the kingdom of God. We enter through faith in him. And when we see what he has done for us, we realise that nothing in life can ultimately tear us away from the favour and love of God.
Main text: Psalm 46
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Here's the main theme of Paul's letter to Titus: Get the truth straight and allow the truth to shape you.
In this concluding sermon we examine the results that will be noted in a church that is committed to learning and living the truth:
- Healthy Community
- Impactful Mission
We consider how we are experiencing this at Foundation Church Belfast so far and how we long to see this be manifested more powerfully in the coming years.
Main text
Titus 3:9-15
Speaker
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Check out the following related sermons:
9 Marks: Church Discipline
Community Makers, Community Breakers
Christians are to live lives that positively impact those around them. The Christian faith has a role in how believers behave in society. They are to be outstanding citizens of their own city or nation.
The people of Crete were not renowned for being outstanding citizens. In fact they bore a reputation of being rebellious and obstinate.
However those who heard and believed the message of Jesus Christ were called to live in distinction to the Cretan stereotype. This is because followers of Christ are called to recognise the God-given authority of civil authorities.
This was not possible because the Cretan believers simply chose to live moral lives from now on. It was only through the transforming work of God in their lives that they were able to live lives of distinction and humility.
In this message we see:
- How to act in the world
- How we used to act in the world
- How God acted in the world
- The basis for our actions in the world
Main Passage
Titus 3:1-8
Speaker
David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
You may also like the following related messages:
9 Marks: The Gospel
Real Religion: How Wealth Should Be Used
The grace of God appeared decisively in history when Jesus Christ entered the scene.
St. Paul shows that this appearing of God's grace is the basis of our present moral and ethical transformation, and sets us up to anticipate the future return of Christ.
When we see and understand the grace of God we are equipped to cope better with fear and anxiety that comes from our current challenging circumstances.
Main text
Titus 2:11-15
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Want to find out more? Check out the following related messages:
- The Ascension of Jesus
- The Gospel of Grace
When we get the truth straight, and allow the truth to shape us, our lives will begin to beautify the message of Jesus.
In this passage, the Apostle Paul sketches out a vision of the Radical Ordinary - lives lived in counter-cultural gospel community.
As contemporary Western society has less in common with its Christian heritage, the modern day church will appear increasingly radical as it lives the faith according to the Bible's teaching.
In this message we examine Paul's application of the Greco-Roman household code to the Christian church and ask how we might live as the Radical Ordinary today.
Main text: Titus 2:1-10
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Why not check out the following related messages:
Four Marks of a Gospel-Centred, Spirit-Empowered Community on Mission
Living Life in Transforming Community
The first believers in Crete had enthusiastically accepted the gospel message of Jesus. They then gathered together in small communities where they could worship and live for Jesus together.
But there was a fake message going around the island: one that sounded similar but was actually threatened the existence of the believing communities.
In this message we examine the impact of fake teaching and consider how it might present itself today in our own context. We then look at how to arm ourselves against this threat at Foundation Church Belfast so we might grow as a healthy church.
- The nature of fake teaching
- The content of fake teaching
- The result of fake teaching
- The solution to fake teaching
Main passage: Titus 1:10-16
Read it here.
You might also like to:
- Check out our message series 9 Marks of a Healthy Church.
- Read Building a Healthy Church.
Finding and affirming excellent leadership is key to the growth of a healthy church.
That is why St. Paul addresses the issue first in his letter to Titus. The message about Jesus has been shared powerfully on Crete. Communities of people have been formed around their shared belief in the gospel message.
But these communities are not complete churches until they have suitably called and affirmed spiritual leadership in place.
In this message, St Paul shows us what qualities to look for in a potential elder within the local church:
- Elders get the truth straight
- Elders let the truth shape them
The message finishes with three headline practical applications to our church at Foundation Church Belfast.
Message by David Varney, pastor of Foundation Church Belfast.
Bible text available here
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Titus+1.5-9&version=ESVUK
It is often said that we are living in a post-truth world. Fake news and various conspiracy theories gain increasing traction in mainstream thought life, influencing the shape of our contemporary discourse.
Truth claims are seen as attempts to manipulate and gain power. This leads to widespread scepticism and suspicion about anyone making ultimate truth claims.
Paul writes to his deputy Titus who is carrying out apostolic work on the island of Crete. Crete is renowned for having a dubious approach to 'truth' which has led to a dehumanising and abusive society.
In this first message in our series from Paul's letter to Titus, we examine the nature of truth from Paul's perspective, and how he seeks to strengthen the fledgling churches in Crete, so that they understand and articulate a robust, vibrant faith.
Message by David Varney, pastor of Foundation Church Belfast.
Bible text available here
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Titus+1.1-4&version=ESVUK
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For all the positive steps forward in the work of restoration, God's people come to a life-or-death decision - do they follow God with their whole hearts?
This final message in our Restoration series through the book of Ezra comes to a climactic - and unfinished - ending. As contemporary readers we are left with a choice to make. Will we heed the lesson of the people in Ezra's day and follow whole-heartedly after God, or will we allow our hearts to be captured by another love that welds a stronger influence in our lives?
In this message we see Three Outstanding Values of the Restoration Community:
- Meaningful Marriages
- Radical Repentance
- Living Lordship
This is not a comfortable message! It is challenging and radical. But this is what God calls his people to be. And it what we aspire to be as we obey him and live for him as a community on mission.
For all the progress that was made by the restoration community, there was a serious problem that threatened their entire existence. How could things get so bad?
Ezra discovers that the community had allowed themselves to become critically compromised by intermarrying into the surrounding pagan nations.
It seems that all their external actions of worship had not produced the inner transformation that Ezra knew was essential before God.
As Christians, external actions must begin with a heart that is transformed by the gospel of Jesus. If not people will make emotional responses to religion but fail to be truly transformed by God's grace.
In this message we see:
- Part 1: The Problem of Sin
- Part 2: The Response to Sin
- Part 3: The Solution to Sin
All relationships are enhanced and strengthened by trust. Nowhere is this more true than our relationship with God.
In this message we learn from Ezra 8 what trusting God looks like in real life. If we really trust God and live consistently with our beliefs about him, we will be used in powerful ways by him in his kingdom building work.
Part 1 - the Basis of Trust
Part 2 - the Nature of Trust
Part 3 - the Result of Trust
Bible text available here https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ezra+8&version=ESVUK
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Ezra was known as 'the Second Moses' such was his significance in the restoration process of God's people.
He was extraordinarily effective in God's kingdom work.
In this message we examine Three Qualities of an Extraordinarily Effective Kingdom Builder. Through Ezra we are given a model to follow if we are to be used by God for significant kingdom work.
Extraordinarily effective kingdom builders:
- Passionately Pursue God
- Influential in Their Context
- Apply Courage to Their Calling
Check out the Advance Theology Course
https://www.advancemovement.com/courses/advance-theology-course/
Bible text available here
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ezra+7&version=ESVUK
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When the temple in Jerusalem is finally completed the community erupt in deep joy.
However this joy is not merely the result of a good job well done. It is rooted in the discovery that the God who decreed all this to happen was good to his word. His promises were fulfilled as he stated many years earlier.
The same God who decreed the restoration of his people in Ezra is the same God who decrees the powerful restoration of his people TODAY.
Today we base our joy on the solid rock of God's decree and it grows among us as we see his decree fleshed out as he builds his church.
In this message we see:
Bible text available here
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezra+6%3A13-22&version=ESVUK
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The next message in our RESTORATION series through the book of Ezra.
Message by Tim Purdue, ministry assistant at Foundation Church Belfast.
As the kingdom of God advances with greater pace so too does opposition.
Opposition comes in a variety of forms but they all stem from the same source - the evil powers of darkness.
In this message we see that the work of restoration meets with inevitable opposition. Yet in the gospel we are given powerful resources to prepare for and overcome opposition.
- The Restoration Community should expect opposition
- The Restoration Community can prepare for opposition
- The Restoration Community will overcome opposition
Bible text available here
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Community on Mission
When God's people returned to their homeland, they had to make a choice to pursue what is most important.
A massive rebuilding project laid ahead of them yet they had to re-evaluate what things mattered the most.
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In this message we see that:Restoration Prioritises WORSHIP
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Restoration Necessitates hard WORK
The order is crucial for the community on mission to function healthily.
Worship at Foundation Church Belfast
As we prepare to return to gathered worship at Foundation Church Belfast we must get back to the core purpose of our gathering - WORSHIP.
So out of a solid grasp of God and what he has done in saving us, we WORK hard, laying down foundations and building up the church so that more can see and hear God at work among them.
We'd love you to join the team.
Bible text available here
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When God restores the worshipping community he calls together a group of people share:
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a PIONEERING spirit
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a DIVERSE makeup, and
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are deeply CONNECTED to one another.
In this message we examine the teaching of Ezra 2 as part of our RESTORATION series.
Our shared vision is to impact the Belfast church and the wider society, and across the island of Ireland for Jesus. We do this through the planting and revitalisation of gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered communities on mission.
Will you join the team?
Bible text available here
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ezra+2&version=ESVUK
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In the book of Ezra we see how God restores his people back to worship after decades in exile. He STIRS the community with renewed vision and SUPPLIES them with the resources to rebuild the temple for worship.
At Foundation Church Belfast as we prepare ourselves to return to gathered worship we can be confident that God STIRS us afresh and promises to SUPPLY what we need to build for him.
Our shared vision is to impact and influence Belfast and the island of Ireland for Jesus. We do this through the planting and revitalisation of gospel-centred, Spirit-empowered churches on mission for the Kingdom.
Will you join the team? There's room for everybody!
Bible text available here
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ezra+1&version=ESVUK
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In the final message of our Gideon series we ask: how do we prevent ending the mission badly?
Gideon is famous for his stunning victory against all odds as he delivered Israel from their enemies. But his life did not end well. He compromised on his convictions and opened the door for further disintegration of Israelite society.
- He believed the hype
We conclude by showing how we may avoid his errors and instead live lives that are faith-filled and purposeful.
Main text: Judges 8:22-35
Preacher: David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
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Before Gideon goes to battle he must be convicted of God's calling and anointing of him. His faith is weak and God takes steps to strengthen him for the fight.
With the coronavirus pandemic we realise our vulnerability and powerlessness like never before, whether as a nation or as individuals. The good news is that God has power to save and deepen our faith and trust in him. Our weakness points us to his saving power working in us.
In this message we see when it comes to salvation,
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God strengthens the weak
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God weakens the strong
Main text: Judges 6:35-7:18
Preacher: David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
The second message in our series on the Old Testament character Gideon.
Before God uses Gideon to achieve victory against Israel's external enemies, he leads Gideon to tackle the inner enemy - Israel's divided heart towards God.
The people have embraced idols and have gone away from their first love, their source of identity and peace.
Decisive action needs to be taken before Israel have any hope of overcoming their external enemies.
Inner renewal is the precursor to wider blessing from God.
In this message we see:
- We cannot expect God's blessing when busy serving idols
- Cutting down our idols is a painful process
- The gospel of Jesus gives us power to deal with our idols
Main text: Judges 6:25-35
Preacher: David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
We look at the life and work of Gideon in this new series from Judges 6-8.
In this message we see:
- God always takes the initiative when saving his people
- We need to listen to God and respond, no matter where it takes us
Main text Judges 6:1-24.
Preacher: David Varney
PJ Smyth addresses the Advance churches across the globe with this encouraging and comforting message.
- Partners (Phil 1:1-2)
- Partnership (Phil 1:3-11)
- Primary Passion (Phil 1:12-14)
Main text: Philippians 1:1-14
Speaker: PJ Smyth, pastor Monument Church, Washington DC, USA
Foundation Church Belfast is part of Advance. For more information about the Advance Movement of churches click here.
This Easter Sunday we take a look at the earliest eye witness account of the Easter story. Christianity is founded upon objective historical facts. In this message we consider the history of Easter, as reported by St. Mark. Does it all stack up?
We then look at the theology of Easter - what does it all mean? Finally we consider three possible responses a person can make after an honest assessment of the data.
Main text: Mark 16:1-8
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
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Restoring Broken Community In our final message from the Real Religion series, we look at James' parting shot: the call to restore broken community. * From what do we bring a brother back? * Why should we bring a brother back? * How do we bring a brother back? * To what do we bring a brother back?
Main text: James 5:19-20
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast Want to connect? Email: hello@foundationchurchbelfast.com
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Today we look at the Bible's teaching on prayer and healing in James 5:13-18.
Part 1 - What is powerful prayer?
Part 2 - Why is prayer powerful?
Part 3 - How can we access powerful prayer?
Part 4 - How do we use powerful prayer?
Message by David Varney.
James teaches us how to suffer well. He shows us that suffering well requires hope.
In the Christian faith, hope is available as the second coming of Christ is eagerly awaited. Hope is never so important than during times of suffering.
In this message we see: * The Problem with Suffering * The Pattern for Suffering * The Purpose of Suffering * The Practice within Suffering
Main text: James 5:6-11
Preacher: David Varney
In this talk we examine the abuse of wealth. This was taking place in the churches James addressed. There was a notable economic diversity among the churches, but that led at times to oppression of the poor by the rich.
The poor were denied basic pay by the rich. And this was taking place in the church. Church is the very place where grace, generosity and humility is to be enjoyed!
Something was deeply wrong: and James goes right to the heart of the problem.
However in the Christian gospel Jesus gave up his riches and became poor, so that we though poor could be given riches beyond belief.
We think about practical steps we can take (and are already taking) as a church to live out the grace of Jesus.
Main text: James 5:1-6
Preacher: David Varney
Pastor David Varney continues to take us through the series of Real Religion while looking at the book of James. This week we look at the topic of boasting about tomorrow
Passage - James 4:13-17
The latest message in our Real Religion series through the letter of James.
Sermon by David Varney
Main text: James 4:1-12
The latest message in our Real Religion series.
Main text: James 3:13-18.
Message by Tim Purdue.
Pastor David Varney takes us through the importance of taming the tongue as we humble ourselves before the Lord
Passage - James 3:1-12
'What good is it if someone says they have faith but does not have works?'
Real Religion is more than ascent to a set of beliefs. According to James, fake religion is only concerned with inner beliefs and not outward actions. This kind of religion is dead - powerless and pointless.
Instead Real Religion is immediately interested in the life and actions of a person who follows Jesus. Real Religion is deeply practical. It is gritty and this-worldly; extending care and mercy especially to the materially poor.
In this sermon we see how: * Fake religion divorces faith from works * Real religion marries faith and works
Main text - James 2:14-26
Preacher - David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Pastor David Varney continues our series on Real Religion with a look at James' warnings against showing partiality against the poor
Passage - James 2:1-13
Pastor David continues our series on Real Religion and delivers us Gods word regarding the importance of being both a hearer and a doer of the word
Passage - James 1:16-27
Pastor David Varney kicks off our series on James with a look at what it means to count our trials as blessings.
Passage: James 1:1-18
Our Heartbeat at Foundation Church Belfast We visit the three key values that animate and galvanise all we do at Foundation Church Belfast.
We seek to be a church in Belfast that is * Gospel-Centred * Spirit-Empowered * Community on Mission
Listen as pastor David Varney explains what these values mean and how they apply to us at Foundation Church Belfast.
Main text: Matthew 28:16-20
The final week in our King of Kings series.
Pastor David Varney speaks on the reliability of the Christmas story and what it means for us today.
The third week in our King of Kings Series. Pastor David Varney speaks on the power of God's mercy as shown in The Magnificat.
Bible Text - Luke 1: 46-55
The second week of our King of Kings series. Pastor David Varney speaks on Gabriel's announcement to Mary regarding the coming birth of Jesus Christ.
Bible Text - Luke 1:26-45
The first of our advent sermons in our King of Kings series. Ministry Assistant Tim Purdue speaks on God's supposed silence and the perfect nature of His timing.
Main text: Luke 1:5-25
Thou Shalt Not Murder Most cultures and societies would acknowledge that murder is bad. So what is unique about the Christian perspective on murder? The Old Testament presents an expansive vision of life and wellbeing for all people within society.
Jesus interprets the Hebrew law and shows how everything begins at the deepest level of the human being - the heart. This is where murderous actions begin, and it is there where the gospel of Jesus offers profound help. Main text Deuteronomy 5:17 Preacher David Varney
Honour Your Parents Latest message from our series examining the teaching and relevance of the Ten Commandments. Main text Deuteronomy 5:16 Preacher David Varney
The Bible's teaching on Sabbath is fulfilled in the gospel of Jesus. He worked so we might enjoy rest.
In this message we examine: * the Old Testament's understanding of Sabbath * how Sabbath was understood by Jesus, the Apostles and the early church * what Sabbath looks like for us today
Message by David Varney.
Main text: Deuteronomy 5:12-15
This message is part of Freedom Sunday at Foundation Church Belfast.
We partner with International Justice Mission - the world's largest anti-slavery organisation. As a church we want to understand justice and how to bring justice to the poorest and most vulnerable in our world.
This message asks: 1. What is justice? 2. Why is there injustice? 3. Why should we seek to bring justice? 4. How can we bring justice?
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Sermon by David Varney, part two in our series on the Ten Commandments.
Main text: Deuteronomy 5:8-10
First message in our series through the Ten Commandments.
Main text: Deuteronomy 5:1-7 and 6:4-9
Sermon by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Message by Johnny Carson, pastor of The Way Church, Ballyclare.
Main text: Acts 12:1-17
In this message, we examine the phenomenon of Spiritual Depression from Psalm 42-43.
The good news is that there is an answer for this common yet devastating condition.
Message by David Varney, pastor of Foundation Church Belfast.
What do you pray? * Thy Kingdom Come * Thy Spirit Come * Thy Mission Done
How do you pray? * With the whole church * In a small group * On your own
This final message by David Varney examines the practical elements of prayer that we seek to live out at Foundation Church Belfast
Prayer: Approach
Second message in our mini-series on Prayer.
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Prayer begins with an invitation for us to come to God. Jesus says: 'If anyone is thirsty, come to me and drink.' How do we access this quenching for our soul thirst? How does this affect our attitude when it comes to prayer? We examine these questions in this the first message from our summer mini-series on Prayer.
Main text: John 7:37-39
Sermon by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Final message in our major series through the book of Acts.
Main points: * Because the gospel powerfully advances we will not be beaten down * Because the gospel powerfully advances we will attempt great things for God
Main text: Acts 28:17-31
Sermon by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Because: * being sincere ≠ being saved * being religious ≠ being real * true belief = true transformation
Main text: Acts 19:1-7, 11-20
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
All three strands of Advance DNA come together as we look at Evangelism and how we do it as a church: * Evangelism is gospel-centred * Evangelism is Spirit-empowered * Evangelism is community on mission
Sermon by David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Main text: Acts 16:11-34
Many people within Western modernist culture have no space in their thinking for the presence of evil and spiritual darkness. Globally, however, this is a minority view. Non-western cultures are far more attuned to the reality of spiritual forces at play in everyday life.
This message examines the reality of spiritual darkness and shows how the church is equipped with spiritual power to bring the light and life of Christ to bear on those trapped in spiritual darkness and oppression.
Main text: Acts 13:1-12
Message by David Varney, Pastor of Foundation Church Belfast
Easter message by David Varney, Pastor Foundation Church Belfast.
Main text: John 20:24-29
The latest message in our series through the book of Acts: Advancing the Gospel.
As a Gospel-Centred, Spirit-Empowered Community on Mission, we advance the gospel by 1. Planting Churches 2. Strengthening Churches
Listen to how we have already begun to do this in answer to God's call, and how he is leading us to go further for him.
Main text: Acts 11:19-30
Message by David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Latest message from Advancing the Gospel teaching series in the book of Acts.
Message by David Varney
Main text: Acts 10:1-48
Message by Andrew Jaenichen, pastor at SonRise Community Church, New Port Richey, Florida.
Part of the God's Men God's Mission conference.
Message by Ross Floyd, missionary in Panama City, Panama.
From the God's Men God's Mission conference.
Message by Adam Powers, pastor of SonRise Community Church, New Port Richey, Florida
Part of the God's Men God's Mission conference.
Message by David Varney, lead pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Main text: Acts 9:1-20
Gospel-Centred | Spirit-Empowered | Community on Mission
Main text: Acts 8:26-40
Message by David Varney, lead pastor Foundation Church Belfast
Gospel-Centred | Spirit-Empowered | Community on Mission
Latest message in our look at the book of Acts: Advancing the Gospel.
Message by David Varney
Main text: Acts 8:1-25
Latest message from our series from the Book of Acts: Advancing the Gospel
Main text: Acts 6:1-7
Message by David Varney
Latest message from our series in the Book of Acts: Advancing the Gospel
Main text: Acts 4:32-5:11
Message by David Varney
When the Spirit of God and the Word of God create the people of God, astounding things happen.
Acts is an historical account. But is it more? What if Acts happened again in our own day? What if Acts sets the pace, gives us our marching orders? What would Belfast look like then?
By the end of the Book of Acts, there are no signs of the Advance of the Gospel slowing down. So we pray, 'More God! Do it again!'
Main text: Acts 3:1-4:22
Speaker: David Varney
Having an encounter with Jesus is like a sheet of polar ice coming into contact with the hull of an icebreaker ship - people respond to him in diverse and life-changing ways.
We see that in this part of John's gospel - two people reacting to the same Jesus in vastly different ways.
Mary choses a costly and extravagant way to demonstrate her devotion to Jesus.
Judas appears to be pious but his religion is simply a cover for a heart that is far from Jesus.
The encounter leads us to three positions we can adopt in response to Jesus: 1. a person who knows they need resurrection life from him 2. a religious moral person who is comfortable with a religion that works for their own ends 3. a follower of Jesus who wants more
Main text: John 12:1-8
Speaker: David Varney
Following the amazing scenes on the Day of Pentecost, we see that the vast number of people who turned their lives to Christ, naturally formed a beautiful, life-giving community.
In this message, Four Marks of a Gospel-Centred, Spirit-Empowered Community on Mission, any subsequent community built on the good news about Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit will naturally demonstrate these characteristics: 1. Devoted 2. Awe-inspiring 3. Benevolent 4. Growing
Main text: Acts 2:38-47
Message by David Varney
The Book of Acts tracks the continuing work of Jesus through his Apostles and the first generation of believers.
In this message, we see how Jesus continues to build his kingdom through his message, his Spirit and his people.
This call continues today - each generation to reach its Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). At Foundation Church, we take our place in this grand mission of Jesus in our own day.
Main text: Acts 1:1-11
Message by David Varney
Message by David Varney
In this message we see that Christmas shows us how: * Strength comes from weakness * Greatness comes from insignificance * Peace from our enemies
We learn how these things are available to all who understand Christmas through the lens of Easter and vice versa.
Main text: Micah 5:2, 4-5a
Part of our Encountering Jesus series.
Message by David Varney.
Main text: John 10:11-21
Message by Howard Kellett, lead pastor of Godfirst Church, Cheltenham and part of the leadership team for Advance Movement UK.
https://www.godfirst.org.uk/ http://www.advancemovement.com/
Message by David Varney as part of our Taking Possession series through the Bible book of Joshua.
Main texts: Joshua 12:7-24 and Joshua 21:43-45.
In this message we see how 1. Sin in the camp endangers community 2. One person's actions affects the whole 3. Gospel builds a grace-based community of repentance
Main text: Joshua 7:1-26.
Talk by: David Varney
May Green brings this inspirational message about the work of Christians Against Poverty.
Check out this video that we saw during May's talk:https://capuk.org/get-involved/your-church/cap-sunday/order-your-free-cap-sunday-pack?region=e
Noah Bartlett continues our series in the book of Joshua called Taking Possession.
Main text: Joshua 9:1-27
Latest audio from Foundation Church Belfast from our series Taking Possession.
Main text: Joshua 6:1-27
Message by David Varney
Before the people of Israel began to take possession of the Promised Land, God called them to covenant renewal - to commit themselves fully to God and his purposes before embarking on his mission.
In this message we see that God's timing is often different to our own. In our fast-paced lives and ministry, when we are tempted to rush on ahead, God calls us to renewal, to stop, remember and celebrate who he is and what he has done for us.
It is out of this moment of renewal that God leads his people on his mission to take possession.
Main points: * Renewal Comes Before Possession * Glory Eclipses Ambition
Main text: Joshua 5:1-15
The latest message in our series Taking Possession.
Sermon by David Varney
Main text: Joshua 3:1-4:7
A highly educated and influential Jewish leader met Jesus one night, under the cover of darkness, to seek clarification on some of Jesus' words and actions. The leader, Nicodemus, realised that Jesus was a man of divine power, but it was Jesus' teaching that troubled him the most: Jesus told Nicodemus that unless he underwent a complete spiritual new birth, he could not enter the kingdom of God - something that Nicodemus assumed he had already obtained.
Many of us think that we are in a 'spiritually good place', or that we are ok with God, or that he will be kind to us on the last day and let us in to heaven. Like Nicodemus, it comes as a bit of a shock that our access to the kingdom of God comes by way of a faith relationship with Jesus himself.
The good news: this life-imparting relationship is available to anyone, irrespective of background, education, status or age. * What is the new birth? * Why do we need it? * How do we get it? * What difference does it make?
Main text: John 3:1-15
Other references: Genesis 2:7; Ezekiel 36:25; Ezekiel 37:5, 10; Philippians 3:4-8.
Second message in our series Taking Possession through the book of Joshua.
Main text: Joshua 2:1-24
Sermon by David Varney
Before taking possession of the Promised Land, God reminded Israel and their leader Joshua, 'I am with you.'
As we see in this message, the presence of God is the basis of our strength and boldness as we face challenges in life and enter into more deeply into the promises of God to the church.
We can be assured of God's promises to us because they come to us through the person and work of Jesus Christ: he is the true and better leader of God's people that Joshua was ultimately pointing towards.
Jesus leads his people to the greater Promised Land of a new heavens and earth, and so when we join him on mission, we are guaranteed ultimate success (Matthew 28:20).
Main text: Joshua 1:1-18
To encounter the real, living Jesus we must grapple first with the accounts of his words and actions in the Bible.
In this new monthly series, we examine encounters with Jesus from St. John's Gospel account.
This month: Jesus turns water into wine.
Main text: 2:1-11
Final message in our series Ascent, this week examining the Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity.
Sermon by Noah Bartlett
In this message, we examine three key questions surrounding this momentous occasion in the great story of God's salvation - the coming of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost: 1. What is Pentecost? 2. What did it mean? 3. What did it achieve?
Sermon by David Varney.
Main Text: Acts 2:1-41
In this message, we reflect on the Ascension of Christ and its meaning to us today.
The Ascension is a key moment in the history of Christianity - the visible, bodily ascension of the man Jesus to the presence of God.
Far from being a quirky oddity in the Christian story of salvation, the Ascension of Jesus provides the grounds for our high view of humanity and our motivation to care for the lost and the lowly.
Sermon by David Varney.
Main text: Acts 1:1-11
There are three key relationships that have transforming power within the local church, the Transforming Community. When these relationships are healthy and growing, transformation is not only possible, it is the experience of everyone who belongs to the community.
This is the final message in our series through First Thessalonians from David Varney
The major world religions and the modern scientific community are widely in agreement on this point: the world as we know it will not continue on forever, each pointing forward to a climactic end of time, although through vastly different means.
In the ancient Judeo-Christian tradition, the end of this present age is known as the Day of the Lord, a day when God will come to his world in power and justice, banishing evil in all its forms, and instituting the renewed and perfected new heavens and new earth.
Whether religious or not, each of us yearns for the Day of the Lord, even if we don't use that terminology. We all desire a day when wrongs are undone, when evil is destroyed, suffering is extinguished and injustice is crushed.
The problem for all of us is that some kind of wrongdoing, hate or injustice exists in each of us. We both want the Day of the Lord to come and do not want the Day.
It is only in the gospel of Jesus that we can look forward confidently to the coming Day. This hope then changes how we live today, and underpins our drive to act justly and to love sacrificially.
The penultimate message by David Varney in our series Transforming Community.
Common to all human experience, irrespective of race, culture, background or place in history, is the experience of death and grief. No one will be able to go through life without experiencing them.
This sermon examines three basic forms of expression that grieving takes within our post-Christian culture, and shows how hope within grief and death is a central premise of the Christian faith.
Main text: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Message by David Varney as part of the series Transforming Community.
Latest message by David Varney in our series through 1 Thessalonians - Transforming Community.
St. Paul teaches that the ultimate point of living in transforming community is to please God by the way we live our lives. This can only come about out of a desire from our deepest being - our hearts. Without a new heart for God it is impossible to please God.
It is of course possible to do good things and be concerned with law-keeping (whether a person is religious or non-religious) without inner change of heart, but this produces people who serve and even do good works out of self-interest - avoiding punishment or gaining reward.
However, God promises a new heart and his Holy Spirit to change our motivations and give us power to live for him - for his glory and for our deepest pleasure. He gives us the gift of one another in Transforming Community to achieve this and to experience this joy and power together.
Main points: * The Point of Life in Transforming Community * The Practise of Life in Transforming Community * The Power of Life in Transforming Community
Main text: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
The latest message in our series Transforming Community by David Varney
Main text: 1 Thessalonians 2:17 - 3:13
Easter Sunday 2018 - sermon by David Varney.
This sermon sets out to show that we must understand that Easter, before it is anything, is a historic event. The whole of the Christian faith rises and falls on the fact of the empty tomb. Easter is more than history - it is history rich with meaning - theology.
After considering the history and theology behind the Easter event, we are provoked to think through the need for Easter: why did it all happen, and how should we position our lives as a response?
Main text: Mark 16:1-8
St. Paul points us to two attributes that are essential and powerful in the building of Transforming Community - authenticity and missionality. Both are required to function together so that true, transforming community can not only be created but grow and thrive.
David Varney preaches the second message in our series Transforming Community.
Main Text: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12.
Message by David Varney in our new series Transforming Community.
Transforming Community - a community that transforms, and a concept that transforms our idea of community. Both of these constructions are addressed by St. Paul's first letter to the church in Thessalonica.
The church in Thessalonica was a young church, born out of Paul's gospel mission a few years earlier in the midst of much opposition from the city. Unlike most other local churches that Paul wrote to, the church in Thessalonica apparently had no major internal problems - no doctrinal errors or moral wandering.
So what we have in this letter to the Thessalonians can be understood as what Paul considered essential teaching for a young, new and excited church.
First, he lays out the Four Foundational Principles of a Transforming Community: * Originates in God * Birthed by Word and Spirit * Resilient in Adversity * Attractive to Outsiders
The final message in our series through the book of Jonah, Running from Mercy.
Sermon by Noah Bartlett
The final message in our series through First John by David Varney.
Main text 1 John 5:6-21
One of the clearest and most magnificent ways God demonstrates his love is by bringing undeserving people into his family and calling them his children: See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are! (1 John 3:1) But how can we know if we are children of God? There are many people who may consider themselves to be children of God, but are they correct in their self-assessment?
St. John wrote to correct a faulty view within the churches of his day that led many to claim they were children of God but in fact were not. He offers three tests for his readers to help them to determine whether they are God's children or not.
According to John, the life of a child of God is characterised by: 1. Love not hate 2. Integrity not hypocrisy 3. Truth not error
Main text: 1 John 3:11-4:6
The third message in our series Behold What Love by David Varney.
Main text: 1 John 2:18-27.
The first message in our series Behold What Love by David Varney.
The letter of First John can be understood as a study of the Christian concept of love. Love, according to John, originates in God himself - it is part of who he is. Our love is to be a reflection of God's character.
For John, love is more than a philosophical concept. It has shape and definition. It finds its expression in real relationship - with God himself and consequently with one another.
Our first message focuses on one application of the love of God - found in gospel fellowship. Here we see that it is impossible to claim to know God and yet live life in moral and sociological darkness. John gives us the reason why this is the case and takes us to the source and power for real relationship and community found in gospel fellowship.
Main points: * Principle of Gospel Fellowship * Practise of Gospel Fellowship * Power for Gospel Fellowship
Bible text: 1 John 1:1-10.
In this message, we learn what it means for us to be Missional in Practice - one of our key values at Foundation Church.
Main text: Matthew 28:16-20.
God's people were working hard but found out they had little to show for it. Their productivity was low and they found themselves continually frustrated, expecting more from their annual harvests than they actually took home.
In this message to his people via the prophet Haggai, God points out that the people are unproductive because they are labouring under a divine curse - the covenant law code made it clear and yet they had so far failed to connect the dots and realise what was at the root of their poor output.
Despite their unholiness which tainted their work, God was determined to bless his people nonetheless. How is it that an unholy people can be blessed by God? Surely that is the wrong way around?
This message shows how through the gospel of Jesus Christ, unholy people can be blessed by God, guaranteed to each individual by faith in Christ. When we understand what Christ has done and receive it by faith, we are declared righteous by God, as unholy people we are blessed. This radically alters the way we view our work and our ministry as a church.
Main text: Haggai 2:10-19
Through the prophet Haggai, God addresses a spirit of defeat among the covenant community, a spirit that threatens the outcome of their work - the rebuilding of the Jerusalem temple.
The root cause of their spirit of defeat? Comparison. Looking to the old temple before it was destroyed by the Babylonian invasion, remembering how good it was and how pathetic their contemporary efforts at rebuilding really are.
So often we are caught in the defeater spirit of comparison, crushing the spirit, flattening the soul, contributing to depression and anxiety.
God speaks to those who are defeated through comparison. He gives a reminder of their divine calling to work for him, and of a climactic future of renewed power and glory in a city of perfect peace.
Main points:
- Comparisons that crush
- Calling that compels
- Climax that comforts
Bible text: Haggai 2:1-9
Message by: David Varney, pastor Foundation Church Belfast
The prophet Haggai addresses God's covenant community when they were at a low ebb. They had stalled in their work of rebuilding God's temple in Jerusalem, starting off the project with great zeal but for various reasons they downed tools and paid attention to their own properties rather than prioritising the temple restoration.
In this message we look at the reason people or churches stall and the ways that God calls and empowers them to return.
Main text: Haggai 1:1-15
The final message in our series Status Update - looking at Christ's assessment of the seven churches of Asia Minor in Revelation 2-3.
The last church of the seven may have been prepared for a hearty commendation for their strong ministry and economic health, but Jesus could see that beneath the facade there was a serious problem. It all came down to wealth. The church thought they were wealthy indeed, but they found their value in lesser things rather than in Christ Jesus. Indeed, Christ was outside the church, standing at the door and knocking.
We examine the issues at play and ask how such an externally strong church could be doing so badly in the eyes of Christ.
Main Text: Revelation 3:14-22
The penultimate message in our series Status Update.
In his message to the church at Philadelphia, Jesus speaks words of truth against the lies and slander that are battering the church. Their identity is not to be found in believing the lies told against them from those who want to see an end to the church and the Christian faith but instead from the revelation of Jesus - the one who holds the key to the kingdom of God and who alone decides who is permitted entry.
Main text: Revelation 3:7-13
The church at Pergamum were struggling to hold on to their orthodox Christian faith whilst living in a city that was famous for its multiplicity of religious options. Rather than religious pluralism leading to tolerance and acceptance, these Christians were singled out for mistreatment by the majority non-Christian society.
Some in the church paid for this with their lives. However some in the church found other ways to deal with the opposition-by compromise.
Jesus commended those in the church that were remaining faithful to him and yet gave a strong warning to the small number who were trying to mix their Christian faith and the value system of their non-Christian majority culture.
Rather than single individuals out, Christ called on the entire local church to repent and deal with this potentially lethal compromise.
As members of the modern day church living in a predominantly non-Christian (or post-Christian) society we are susceptible to the subtle yet pervasive pressures to conform to the majority views and practices of our city.
As with each message to the churches of Asia Minor, Christ promises grace to respond and overcome these modern challenges to the faithfulness and expression of the Christian faith.
Main text: Revelation 2:12-17
To those suffering and going through hardships, Jesus says, 'Do not fear.' But on what ground can this statement actually stand if it is to help us? How can it be a source of real strength and encouragement rather than being a bit of meaningless good advice?
In this sermon we examine Christ's message to the suffering Christians in the church of Smyrna and the interpretative framework that he gives to those who are being persecuted.
In our contemporary setting, we live among a predominantly secular worldview, the assumption that there is no higher power, that this life is all there is, and our life's purpose is simply to take what we can from our time on earth and pass something on to the next generation if possible. However this worldview cannot provide a satisfactory answer to the brute fact of human suffering.
However Jesus speaks to the church to give them an alternate view of reality - a worldview that is constructed around the Christian gospel - that Christ himself suffered and died on a cross and rose to life on the third day. A Christian worldview with the gospel at the centre flows out to meet every facet of human knowledge and experience, including human suffering. We see in this gospel-centred framework deep resources available in our suffering as well as the hope of a future free of suffering and sadness.
Main passage: Revelation 2:8-11
The church at Ephesus is a busy church, getting on with lots of ministry and standing up for the truth. They may have expected nothing but commendation from Jesus as he spoke to the seven churches of Asia Minor, but a shock was in store - the very existence of the church was in doubt.
What could possibly be wrong with a church that is doing so much activity? The answer is that they have lost their first love, abandoning the initial reason they engaged in loving, Christ-honouring service in the first place.
The message to the church at Ephesus is very relevant for us today: there are many churches who are externally very active but yet love has all but drained out of the church - and this can be sensed by all who are in contact with the church.
How can we prevent becoming a loveless church? Or how do we respond if we recognise some of the Ephesian spirit in ourselves? This message seeks to answer such questions.
Main passage: Revelation 2:1-7
Why is there something rather than nothing? In other words, why is there existence rather than non-existence? This is the basic philosophical question facing all humankind according to playwright and philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre. The answer that we provide to this question is more than conceptual - it will necessarily shape our lives, our ethics, our morality and our society.
In the Bible we see a God who not only exists but who also speaks: as Francis Schaeffer wrote, 'he is there and he is not silent.' God makes himself known and knowable through revelation, the revealing of knowledge of him that we would not otherwise have.
In the biblical book called Revelation, we are presented with the God who speaks and reveals himself; reveals his sovereignty, his presence with his people and the liberation of his people through the gospel.
This is all spoken to a group of churches in Asia Minor (part of the Roman Empire) who were soon to be facing opposition because of their Christian faith. They needed to know that God is there and he is not silent.
This message is crucial for the church of today, as objective truth is progressively undermined by our culture, and as increasing opposition to the historic Christian faith is experienced.
Main bible text: Revelation 1:1-20
Main points: * God is a God who speaks * God is a God who rules * God is a God who communes * God is a God who liberates
In the final message in our series through Paul's letter to the Philippians, we look at contentment, an under-rated and yet desperately needed virtue, especially in our contemporary world where contentment is hard to come by.
Main Bible text: Philippians 4:10-20
Main sermon points: * The shape of contentment * The effects of contentment * The source of contentment
In the eight message in our series through Paul's letter to the Philippian church, we see Paul's description of the substance of the Christian life. Paul had to be crystal clear on what the Christian life is all about because it was coming under attack from a group who masqueraded as Christians but their lives demonstrated they were anything but.
Main points: * The substance of the Christian life * The parody of the Christian life * The outcome of the Christian life
Bible passage: Philippians 3:12-21
In our seventh message in the series through Paul's epistle to the Philippians, Noah takes us through our ultimate source of all joy - Christ - and Christ alone!
Main text: Philippians 3:1-11
In the fifth sermon in this series, we look at the two keys Paul gives the Philippian church to impact their city. Therefore if we want to impact Belfast with the gospel of Jesus Christ, we need to understand and use the same two keys that Paul lays down.
The two keys to impacting the city: 1. Gospel Transformation (using the tools of the Word and prayer) 2. Gospel Integration
Main bible text: Philippians 2:12-18
In the fourth message in our series through St. Paul's letter to the Philippians, we look at Paul's central challenge to the church - a call to deep unity.
Unity is essential for the healthy function and impact of a church in the world, but also for healthy internal dynamics within a church. The kind of unity that Paul envisages is based on humility, a form of love that considers others more significant that ourselves, the kind of love that gives and gives without the expectation of anything in return.
It is only possible for us to consistently demonstrate this kind of love when we realise that at the centre of the Christian message is humility, the humility of Christ freely giving himself for his people.
Main text: Philippians 1:27-2:4
Main points: * Gospel Unity in the World * Gospel Unity in the Church
The third message in our series The Pursuit of Joy. The Christian faith provides rich resources for a life of deep joy, resources that are unparalleled in other faith systems and philosophies.
We see in this letter that the Apostle Paul wrote from prison, he has great joy despite his circumstances. Is such joy available to us today, and if so, how do we access it?
Bible text: Philippians 1:12-26
Main points in the sermon: When Christ is our highest treasure, we can have: * Joy in past trials * Joy in present hardships * Joy in future uncertainty * And ask how we can attain this kind of joy