St Helen's midweek talks podcast: Recent Episodes
St Helen's Bishopsgate
One thing matters; taking the time to listen to Jesus. Every week people from across the City of London meet to hear God speak through the Bible. This podcast is a feed of our midweek talks, most will include a Q&A on the Bible passage. We are a church based in the heart of the City of London. Visit www.st-helens.org.uk or download our apps on iOS and Android, to access thousands of talks and other resources. Also visit www.gospelatwork.org.uk to find details of lunchtime talks taking place across London every week.
William Taylor - The good news of Jesus' kingly rule has multiplied exponentially across the globe, century by century. How has this happened? Through men and women so persuaded of the benefits of Jesus' rule that they make speaking of Jesus and of the message of his death and resurrection their life-passion: both in life…and death.
William Taylor - Partnership is a major theme of Paul's letter to what appear to be model believers in the church at Philippi. Up front in the letter Paul tells them what it is that he longs for from Christian believers who have made an exemplary beginning to their life of faith in Jesus.
Paul Williams - There’s nothing more devastating than death, but it’s all around us, all the time. This week in the news, we’ve marked the liberation of Auschwitz, seen the Southport killer sentenced and heard of man’s death as a result of storm Éowyn. In Mark chapter 5, Jesus shows that he is more powerful even than death as he raises a little girl from her death bed.
Paul Williams - There are few things more personally devastating than being struck down by a long-term debilitating disease, but it's something that many have to live with, day in and day out. In Mark 5:21-34, Jesus meets a woman who's tried everything to deal with a condition that has blighted her life for more than a decade. The way Jesus deals with her condition gives us all hope.
Paul Williams - The news headlines are dominated by such acts of wickedness that most would not doubt that there are powerful forces of evil at work in the world. In Mark Chapter 5 we see Jesus coming face-to-face with pure evil, defeating it and delivering a whole town of its power and presence. But the response of the people is surprising, if not shocking.
Paul Williams - Jesus calms a raging sea in Mark Chapter 4:35–41. We can trust him, who is the Lord Almighty, even as we fear the very real threat of natural disasters.
Paul Williams - Once you get through all the Christmas wrapping, at the heart of Christmas is the message that God loves us and has given us the greatest gift any of us could wish for - eternal life. If that’s not amazing enough, what it cost him to give us this gift is extraordinary. He gave his only Son.
Paul Williams - The perceived wisdom of the world is that it's very unwise to be in someone else's debt as it leaves us vulnerable and beholden to them. But in Mark 10 we meet a blind man who could see that there's only one way to prosper, and that is to be indebted to Jesus.
Paul Williams - In the City, we serve those in the highest and most exalted places. In Jesus' kingdom it could not be more different. As we dig into Mark 10:45 we discover a God who comes to serve us.
Paul Williams - If you could have one thing from God what would it be? Much of the City functions on there being a desire for success, status and significance. When the disciples ask Jesus for that, he showed them a better way.
Wes Illingsworth - We're surrounded by advisers, consultants, and life coaches telling us how to be healthier, wealthier, and happier. Come and hear why Jesus Christ's strategy for a successful life is totally unique – lose life!
William Taylor - The death of Jesus on a cross has been described as 'folly' and 'weakness'. It is not hard to understand why. Even Jesus' own disciples found it offensive. However, Jesus himself taught that his death on a cross was central to his entire mission and rule.
William Taylor - The Church is the largest human entity on the planet. But what is it? And how is it constituted? And how does it continue to grow at such pace? In five short sentences Jesus answers all these questions - and more!
William Taylor - There is no shortage of evidence in support of the claims of Jesus. What we do with it tells us everything - about ourselves!
Dave Jensen - What is true greatness? Dave discusses the greatest event in human history and how it impacts each one of us.
William Taylor - Against the 'better judgement' of his disciples Jesus includes rank outsiders amongst his followers. He has a few things to teach us about diversity!
William Taylor - Every culture, religious or not, has values by which it measures whether people have 'crossed the line' and are either 'in' or 'out'. Jesus suggests that such things can be profoundly misleading - to the point of being dangerous. Come and hear how Jesus' way is better.
Wes Illingsworth - Jesus says everyone needs to accept him as Lord and come to him for forgiveness. But there are many respectable secular and religious leaders who tell us we can be good without relying on Jesus. Come and hear how Jesus exposes how dangerous these leaders actually are.
William Taylor - The benefits of belonging to Jesus are, quite literally, out of this world. But what does it take to be one of his highly blessed people?
William Taylor - Wherever Jesus went he was pursued by vast hoards of people. The crowds were an ever present part of his ministry - and no wonder! He healed their sick, taught them and fed them. The feeding of the 5,000 is one case in point. But the lesson of the feeding is of something far more than the provision of mere physical requirements. Jesus has compassion on the crowds, and he cares for their deepest eternal need.
William Taylor - There can be no denying that the church of Jesus Christ is the most significant movement in human history over the last 2,000 years. Currently, with over 2.8 billion followers across the globe it is certainly the most numerous and the benefits of membership are second to none. We love being part of something that matters. So how come some people aren't interested? Matthew's analysis is both challenging and immensely encouraging.
Emmanuel Archampong - Our summer series continues with talks from the book of Revelation, where the speakers share personal experiences of being Christian in their workplaces.
Ali Blundy - Our summer series continues with talks from the book of Revelation, where the speakers share personal experiences of being Christian in their workplaces.
Ian Bright - Our summer series continues with talks from the book of Revelation, where the speakers will share personal experiences of being Christian in their workplaces.
Andrew Smith - There are many temptations in the City which can cause Satan to gain a foothold in the lives of believers.
Gabor Szarka - Christian believers in first century Smyrna faced the risk of reputational damage, financial loss, or potentially even imprisonment and death. But in Jesus' economy, they were in fact rich.
Leo Elbourne - Sometimes changing your perspective on something will reveal the truth of how it really is; so what is Jesus’ perspective on the world and his churches within it? In this talk we look at Revelation 2:1-7 and Jesus’ letter to the Ephesian church in which he reveals just what it is about their lives which pleases him, and the surprisingly fatal mistake that they’re prone to making.
Wes Illingsworth - With the world in election fever, do you know what Jesus offers that no leader does? Whether we've already joined Jesus' side or not, this passage will help us weigh up the consequences of our decision.
William Taylor - What do you think happens to people who want to remain neutral to Jesus? Jesus wants us to know that nothing will prevent the advance of his rule across the globe, and that neutrality is not an option.
William Taylor - We all know how much good - or harm - words can do in this life, but Jesus says they are even more significant than that. Not only do they reveal what otherwise is hidden, they also spell out our future.
William Taylor - Jesus insists there are only two sides when it comes to good and evil. Logic demands that Jesus must be on the side of good, but that logic also demands us to answer: which side are we on?
Paul Williams - Jesus confounds the greatest minds in Israel, as he gives a man something he never thought he wanted, but then discovered it was the greatest gift of all.
Paul Williams - This talk addresses the question, 'What if I can't be good enough for God?'. In Luke Chapter 5, Jesus has a highly risky encounter with a man in desperate need of cleansing. Luke shows us a powerful, loving saviour–Jesus who achieves what religious rule keeping cannot.
Paul Williams - In Luke Chapter 5, we see why keeping Jesus to the religious zone of life is so outrageous.
William Taylor - There are multiple reasons why a person might choose to follow Jesus. His leadership is one of them – it is like no other. To be led by Jesus and to follow his lead in our own leadership styles is truly liberating.
William Taylor - Jesus both challenges and exposes human authorities for what they are – hypocritical and deadly. What he offers is something gloriously different.
William Taylor - In this talk on Matthew 12:1-8, we hear how Jesus Christ exposes the pettiness and blindness of human religion and offers us the life God created us to enjoy.
William Taylor - Everyone wants to be a part of something that really counts and really lasts. Paul's closing words to the church in Thessalonica tells us how we can be a part of precisely that.
William Taylor - We all like being in the know. Jesus has told us he will return, but how will we respond? In this passage, we hear how to be ready for the most important event on everyone's timeline.
William Taylor - Death is a reality which every one of us will face. If we are unprepared for death, we are unprepared for life. The Christian is able to face death with well grounded confidence. This transforms our attitude to our own death, as well as our experience in the face of loved ones who die trusting in Jesus.
Wes Illingsworth - Some look at the state of society and long for our culture to be changed by Jesus’ teaching and example. Some long to experience something beyond, something divine. Many of us have been considering, even celebrating, Jesus' death and resurrection over Easter; but what impact should the new life Jesus promised have on our day-to-day lives? Ephesians 4:17–24 helps us to see that how knowing Jesus Christ enables us to be the people God intended us to be.
William Taylor - 1 Thessalonians 1:9b-10 unpacks how we can be sure the resurrected Jesus provides the hope we and our culture long for.
William Taylor - It has become commonplace to observe just how much of our Western Culture owes its origin to the Christian faith. In 1 Thessalonians 4:9–12 Paul expands on what will be lost as a person or nation rejects the Christian gospel.
William Taylor - Increasingly people in our age are asking the question: 'Has the sexual revolution of the 1960s really brought freedom?' In this passage, we hear how Jesus' followers started an even bigger sexual revolution in the 1st century.
William Taylor - What is the Apostle Paul's concern for the church or young Christian that has started really well? That they live to please God, that they overflow in love for one another and that they are exposed to the teaching of the gospel. How will such desires be achieved? Only as God acts.
William Taylor - In the City we are all used to the idea of measurables, of performance criteria and of industry standards. But what are the key spiritual health indicators to show that a genuine work of God has taken place in our offices, homes and neighbourhoods? Fancy a health check? This is what we get in 1 Thessalonians 2:13–3:10.
Paul Williams - In this talk, we hear about how an encounter with Jesus can utterly transform any life.
Paul Williams - Hear what Jesus says in this passage about being fulfilled, satisfied and content.
Paul Williams - In this talk, we hear about Jesus' offer that will satisfy our deepest longings – both now and for eternity.
William Taylor - Whether it's Jurgen Klopp or 'Bazball', a new president, prime minister or party leader, we all know that leadership is everything. So what does gold-standard leadership for the Christian worker look like? Paul and his co-workers exemplify the blueprint.
William Taylor - Social media and news feeds are full of news of the decline in main-line churches, and often of scandal. So what does true and faithful Christian leadership look like, and what is the kind of Christian work that grows a church? Thankfully the New Testament gives the answer!
William Taylor - Written a matter of months after a new church has been founded there, Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians gives us a blueprint for the healthy start up. What does a healthy baby church look like? In the opening sections of the letter we are provided with a bench-mark against which to assess any claim to a genuine work of God.
William Taylor - Paul's first letter to the church in one of the major cities of the Roman Empire gives instruction to a baby church and new Christians who have started really well in following Jesus. It provides a perfect blueprint for what it looks like to engage in healthy discipleship and genuine Christian ministry. A great start-up study for the City!
Paul Williams - This passage in Luke contains many surprises. When God turns up he turns out to be nothing like we expect him to be. From the extraordinary nature of Jesus's birth in a humble manger to the profound wonder of God being born as a baby. However, the real surprise is the nature of God revealed through Jesus—a God who seeks to serve and save humanity.
William Taylor - Jesus, the most powerful leader and most followed man this world has ever known, describes himself as gentle and lowly. He offers true rest for those who follow him. His light burden and easy load is a welcome relief from the wearisome ideologies of the world.
William Taylor - If no one has ever seen God then can any individual speak with clarity on the matter? Are not our ideas about God simply any person's best guess? Jesus Christ insists that we need not be so vague. But then, he is uniquely qualified. Listen to this talk from Matthew 11:27.
William Taylor - If Christianity is so true and rational, why don't more people believe? Find out what Jesus says as he himself addresses this issue in Matthew 11:25-26.
William Taylor - We all long for justice. Fair judgement is foundational to a well-functioning society. No surprise then to find Jesus Christ insisting that these longings will be realised, finally, at the end. God has set a day of ultimate accountability. In Matthew 11:16–24, we hear what Jesus says this judgement will be based on.
William Taylor - The party with a muddled manifesto will fall. The company with no clear vision will fail. The military campaign without an objective will falter. The church, similarly lacking in direction, will drift. So what is Jesus' mission for his disciples? While 46% of the UK would list their religion as Christian, only 5% regularly attend church. If we were all clear on what Jesus intends us to be and to do, it would have a profound impact.
William Taylor - The newsfeeds and broadsheets are full of predictions of the demise of Christianity in England - and the death of the Church of England. Jesus' commission to his disciples brings clarity about the mission of the church and confidence concerning the future of Christianity.
Alistair Blundy - 21st-century London doesn't quite know how to respond to the reality of death; so we sanitise it with metaphors, hide it behind surgical curtains, trivialise it with jokes, or ignore it. But Jesus tackles it head-on and wants us to have joyful certainty. In this talk, we hear about the raising of Lazarus from John 11:1–44.
Simon Pilcher - God's kingdom has very different values from our world. Jesus tells an extraordinary story about employment practices that would shock the City HR community to its core. He uses the story to explain what it means for the 'last to be first' and more broadly to set out why God does not treat us fairly.
Andrew Smith - If your whole life and career rested on one event and one decision, that would be an enormous moment. What about if the whole of Christianity and, with it, the history and origins of Western civilization came down to just one moment? It’s almost too big to fathom. And yet it did, in the resurrection of Jesus. See how these facts of history 2000 years ago shape life and work today.
Gabor Szarka - How could a good God send people to hell? Gabor Szarka speaks on John 3:16-21, where we see the extraordinary lengths to which God has gone to save a world in rebellion against him. Come and marvel at God's astonishing love for people - he has given us himself. We can all come to him without condemnation if only we believe in Jesus.
Emmanuel Archampong - How should Christians deal with anxiety? And if God is so good why do Christians still go through tough times—generally as humans and specifically as Christians? Emmanuel Archampong speaks on 1 Peter 5:6–14 and shows us how 1 Peter helps in the battle with anxiety.
Ian Bright - What is so special about reading the Bible? Why do Christians gather to read, discuss and apply it? We see from John 20:30-31 that we get to know Jesus as we read the Bible, and that through Jesus, we can receive true life. There's no other thing that demands our focus more than the Bible and getting to know our creator God.
Will Trump - If God is there, why doesn't he make himself more obvious? Today’s talk will tackle this tough question. From 2 Corinthians 4:1—6, we'll see how God has revealed himself supremely in the Lord Jesus, and how he's in the business of bringing light into the darkness of our lives—if only we'll let him.
Mervin Kissoon - What would it take to save the City? In the conclusion to our series in Matthew this term, Jesus wants us to be gospel multipliers, seeing the way that he sees, and pleading for the workers the harvest needs.
William Taylor - To Jesus, raising a dead body to life was as straightforward as waking a child from sleep. Jesus' authority over death makes him a man like no other. The implications of this power impacts every one of us—not only will we all die, we will also all be summoned by Jesus to give account for the lives we have lived.
William Taylor - Jesus of Nazareth stands tall as the dominant figure of all human history. It is not possible to hold too high a view of him. His arrival brought a new era for humanity: one in which knowing God personally is a possibility for every individual, no matter who they are or where they are from. Such radical intervention, by God, requires an entirely fresh start.
William Taylor - Jesus' call to follow comes not with subdued pleading but as an irresistible command. He issues his summons to the most unlikely people. What hope this gives to all! Our response both to the command itself and to the breadth of people to whom Jesus makes it tells us a great deal—about ourselves!
William Taylor - Timing is everything: in business, in investments, in sports, in politics, and in war. A proper understanding of 'The Times' in which we live, enables the right decisions. Listening to Jesus will enable us to know the times and make the very best choices.
Paul Williams - The rock band Queen famously asked, "Who wants to live forever?" Despite mankind's best efforts, science can't make us immortal, but Jesus claims that he can. In this talk, we hear how God makes possible what is impossible for us.
Paul Williams - Is it possible to get eternal life in paradise? What price would you put on being certain of life beyond the grave? In this talk you'll hear about Jesus' discussion with his disciples on this topic.
Paul Williams - How can I be sure of going to heaven when I die? Arguably, there is no more important question in life. When Jesus was asked that question, his answer was surprising, challenging, and deeply reassuring.
William Taylor - No matter how 'developed' we humans find ourselves to be, evil is an inescapable reality in this world. Why is this so? Can there be any respite from it? Is there any antidote to it? Find out the answers to these questions in this talk.
William Taylor - Many words are used to describe the emotions people experienced when they met with Jesus of Nazareth in person. People were astonished at him, others marvelled, and many were scandalised. There are multiple descriptions of people loving him. One of the most common responses, however, was fear. There was, and still is, an aspect of Jesus that is genuinely frightening.
William Taylor - Five years ago in the 'West', we might have needed convincing that disease was one of those things from which we need saving. No longer! Jesus' kingdom is one in which He saves from all sickness. This inevitably raises questions about membership, and who will be the beneficiaries of his work.
William Taylor - Jesus stands alone on the pages of human history. He is the only figure who has ever confronted the greatest enemies of humanity and triumphed. His kingdom is like no other. Rather than being engulfed by the tide of disease, death, and disorder, Jesus rolls it back. Who might benefit from such power and love? Find out the answer in this talk.
Wes Illingsworth - What is life all about in the aftermath of Jesus' death and resurrection? In this talk, we see the fascinating conclusion to John's gospel and hear how the risen Jesus generously provides for life in the post-resurrection era.
William Taylor - Thousands listened when Jesus first delivered his Sermon on the Mount. Those present described the teaching as like nothing they had ever heard before. Subsequent centuries have seen billions exposed to the same message in countless human languages. Of all these billions, Jesus' analysis of those who have heard his sermon is that they fall into just two categories. Which one do you belong to?
William Taylor - Can you spot a wolf in the City? When your life depends on it, being able to identify fraudsters is vital. In this passage, Jesus shows us how to recognise those who look genuine, but who will con us eternally.
William Taylor - When confronted with vast crowds, Jesus repeatedly says things that appear to challenge and even deter people from following. He is more concerned with authenticity than popularity. The Sermon on the Mount is no exception. There are two gates, two roads, two crowds, and two destinations. In Jesus' teaching, the minority option is the right option.
William Taylor - That ever-elusive satisfaction is something craved the whole world over. As long ago as 1965 Mick Jagger released the single; nearly 60 years later in the 'West', it is as beyond our grasp as it ever was. In the 'Sermon on the Mount', Jesus outlines the contours of the 'Beautiful Life'. True satisfaction is not as far away as it might appear. As the sermon draws to its close he insists that genuine contentment is just a prayer away.
Paul Williams - In arguably one of the most famous stories Jesus ever told, he completely shatters our categories when it comes to who's in God's family and who's out. Last week we heard that no matter who you are or what you've done you can come to God. This week we'll consider why some people find that so offensive.
Paul Williams - How bad would you have to be for God to not take you back? Jesus gives us a surprising answer to that question.
Paul Williams - As we look at Jesus, he turns out to be nothing like the god we create in our own minds. He is far more radical, far more loving, far more forgiving, and far more 'out there'. As we see him hanging out with those who were despised and hated, and then hearing him tell a simple story, our categories about God are blown apart.
William Taylor - We hate judgmentalism, fault-finding, condemnation, and endless criticism, and yet we all find ourselves having judgemental attitudes. So what is the way out from this profoundly unattractive trait? Jesus seems to suggest that a culture that turns its back on him will become increasingly judgemental, while one that welcomes him will become increasingly merciful.
William Taylor - Stress, anxiety, worry–they are all on the increase. They impact the rich and poor, the privileged and less privileged, the young and old alike. Why are stress and anxiety so prevalent and what is the antidote? Jesus has both the explanation and the remedy for our anxious lives. If we listen well it will change our lives.
William Taylor - Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount is intensely practical. He tackles issues such as our investments, our worries, and our assessments of others. This week we are considering money and how to invest wisely. With Jesus as our financial advisor, our treasure is better than Triple-A rated!
William Taylor - Christian prayer is a real relationship, and not a rote ritual. Christian prayer puts first things first. Christian prayer is genuine, not fake.
William Taylor - Virtue signalling and hypocrisy walk hand in hand. They are just as prevalent in the City as they were at the World Cup. Jesus urges his followers to pursue their good works before an audience of one. Not only is this profoundly attractive, it also yields genuine 'reward'.
Wes Illingsworth - We are constantly given seemingly wise advice, whether by friends and family or the media. So how can we be sure that the way to survive and thrive is by throwing our lot in with the carpenter from 2,000 years ago? And how much of a difference will his way make during the good times and the tough times ahead?
William Taylor - Everything about the coming of Jesus points to him being God's long-promised ruler for all the world through all eternity. What a breath of fresh air this is for us in a period of national and global history where the inadequacies of human leaders have been all too evident.
William Taylor - Revelation means there's no need for speculation. No more maybe's and what if's, but knowledge. We can know God because Jesus was born and is now sat at God's right hand.
William Taylor - We all know that integrity matters in the City. 'In utmost good faith' and 'my word is my bond' are our watchwords. But Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount exposes our relationship with the truth for what it is. It points us to a fresh start with new standards.
William Taylor - The companies we work for, the nations we live in and the friendship groups we belong to all have their own set of values. With the spotlight on Qatar, questions over the values of a regime could not be more pertinent. There is no doubt that Jesus demands 'regime-change', but the integrity and quality of the regime he brings supersedes all others.
William Taylor - The companies we work for, the nations we live in and the friendship groups we are part of all have values. With the spotlight on Qatar, questions over the values of a regime could not be more current. There is no doubt that Jesus demands 'regime-change', but the integrity and quality of the regime he brings supersedes all others.
Mervin Kissoon - Who are we and why are we here? You are the salt of the earth, so don’t lose it. You are the light of the world, so don’t hide it.
null - In this talk we look at the young lad David as he goes to war against the Lord's enemy, the giant Goliath.
Mervin Kissoon - The world gives us so many options for 'living our best life'. When social media, life coaches and even some religious establishments give appealing options, we're left asking: how can we be sure that being a Christian is 'living our best life'? Jesus reassures us that it is the best possible path in life.
William Taylor - The coming of Jesus is described as 'a great light' dawning on people living in darkness and under the shadow of death. He scatters fear and gloom as he brings life-giving light and lights up the lives of his disciples. How should we respond to such a blazing arrival? Jesus tells us: 'repent' and 'follow'.
William Taylor - Every leader the world has ever known has his or her flaws–bar one! The temptations this leader faces shows him to be a leader like no other. He is tried and tested, and he passes without blemish. This is a leader we can follow, who will act selflessly, courageously and sacrificially–his name is Jesus!
William Taylor - This passage considers Jesus' baptism in Matthew. God's voice came from heaven, saying: 'This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.' Jesus is the servant leader and the leader God has chosen.
William Taylor - Preparation was made for the coming of Jesus with a summons to radical and deep-seated change. This is not surprising considering it was the arrival of God himself. It means that the Christian faith is not a hobby to be 'tacked on' to a life or a 'label' under which to subsume our own religious or moral views. Jesus brings a fresh start, with new priorities and a new power.
William Taylor - Confidence matters; the City is built on it. But confidence without any foundation is simply bluster. In his record of the life and teaching of Jesus, Matthew's claim is that Jesus is the only one who can confidently claim to be the lord over all. He is lord over Heaven and Earth, the living and the dead, the present and the future.
Wes Illingsworth - In this passage from Matthew's gospel we see Jesus' international rule emphasised. We also see that individuals respond to his rule either with rejection or rejoicing.
William Taylor - We might assume that military conflict, environmental disorder, disease, or economic woes are the greatest problems facing the world today, but God would differ. He sent his son, Jesus, into the world with a specific and targeted mission—to save us from our sin. With such salvation it is possible for men and women to be reunited with God and to enjoy the everlasting benefits of 'God with us', now and forever!
William Taylor - We all know leadership matters. The new PM, CEO, team coach, or captain can transform performance, and impact everything for good or ill. In a world of revolving doors or flawed leaders, nothing could be more relevant than knowing how God provides a perfect and permanent government for his people.
Philipp Hagenbuch - Jesus tells a parable about a prudent financial investor who God calls a fool. Hear why, and how to avoid the same mistake.
Alistair Blundy - Alistair Blundy, aviation underwriter, will share with us Jesus' antidote to anxiety, which helps us work for what matters.
Wes Illingsworth - Through our lunchtime summer series, different City workers have given us a big vision for what's involved in knowing God and serving Jesus in the City. But where will the strength and energy come from to keep going when the going gets tough? What will keep us from being distracted by the temptations and pressures of working life? We'll see how the Apostle Paul was able to rejoice and keep going in his service and how we can have the same joy in the work the Lord has given us.
Simon Pilcher - Simon Pilcher, Chief Exec of USS Investment Management, speaking from Ephesians 4:17-24. We'll be hearing about the way Christians can live differently in the City and why the way we "dress" matters.
Will Trump - A talk from Will Trump, Behavioural Scientist at Swiss Re. He is speaking from Luke 5:1-11 explaining why the events recorded in the calling of Simon Peter resonate with him and what it looks like for him to follow Jesus in the City.
Ian Bright - Ian Bright, financial crime manager at AXIS Capital, will be speaking on the Christian's new identity in Christ and how this changes our focus from earthly things to heavenly things.
Philip Grundy - In the first of our Knowing God series Philip Grundy shares how God has shown his love for the world in Jesus Christ.
William Taylor - The Bible describes death as being like a sheet that covers all humanity. Anyone who has lived for longer than a few years will find it impossible to deny it. Death haunts us all. Jesus Christ claims to have absolute authority over death. He's only the one who is able to save us from its harsh reality. No other religious leader has such authority. This makes Jesus not only unique but also essential.
William Taylor - Jesus' willingness to help the most excluded and isolated people is limitless. His power to save such people is boundless. Many people fear coming to Jesus because they are either embarrassed, feel too significant, or feel too sinful. But time and time again Jesus confounds our expectations.
Mervin Kissoon - How should we respond to Jesus' life-giving rescue? We've seen an extraordinary example of Jesus driving back the reign of evil, death, and deceit. But in our passage this week, Luke 8.34-39, we see two contrasting responses to Jesus' life-giving rescue, and Luke wants to persuade us on how we should respond.
Mervin Kissoon - There are many terrible things happening in the world right now. How can we be sure that Jesus is the answer to a world full of evil?
William Taylor - Jesus calming the storm at sea reminds us that natural disasters were a real threat long before our current environmental concerns. This demonstration of his absolute power and authority to save shows us where the only lasting solution to the world's troubles lies. Jesus has absolute authority over this creation and the power to build a new creation.
William Taylor - Jesus' teaching comes with a great opportunity. Because Jesus speaks truth from God, how we respond impacts where we belong. Listening well and responding rightly will place us on the balcony and amongst the family of true royalty.
William Taylor - The exponential growth of the Christian church from 11 dispirited followers to the single most popular movement in the world is nothing short of miraculous. But what is the growth driver, and can we bottle it?
William Taylor - This world desperately needs saving. Jesus alone and only Jesus provides the salvation humanity needs. So why doesn't everyone respond to it? It's not because people don't hear Jesus—instead, it's a lack of listening and understanding.
Leo Elbourne - Around 2,000 years ago, a tearful woman arrived at a dinner party and poured oil over a man's feet. It feels like an awkward situation, but the gospel writer purposefully highlights this interaction for his readers. If you want to know what Jesus' salvation is all about, look at this defining moment.
William Taylor - Why do people decide not to follow Jesus? Jesus himself answers that question and his response is not altogether comfortable. He suggests that it is little to do with evidence, or even with reason. Instead, it has much more to do with lifestyle and morality. Jesus' teaching examines our response to him.
William Taylor - Jesus claimed to be the Messiah, the Son of God. Some of the most persuasive evidence substantiating Jesus’ claims are writings about him centuries before he came. Jesus uses this material to convince his listeners that he is the one they have been waiting for. Coupled with his teaching and actions it makes for a compelling case.
William Taylor - Jesus displays his authority over death through his own resurrection and by bringing other people back to life. He's able to reverse the irreversible, simply by speaking. This makes Jesus, who is full of compassion, strangely frightening. Those who have witnessed his supernatural power could never describe him as ‘merely a person of interest’.
William Taylor - God promises a day when he will rid the world of disease. He will do this through the man he sent as the saviour of the world. Jesus not only claims to be the one who delivers on the promise of God—but he also gives evidence of being that deliverer.
William Taylor - It is God who justifies Christians. Therefore, nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Even when suffering diverse trials, we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
William Taylor - Suffering in this broken world is a certainty for everyone. Any faith system or view of the world that cannot give real help in the face of human suffering is worthless. The Christian gospel has solid answers and certain assurance: there is hope, help, and purpose in our suffering.
William Taylor - God has a lot to say about the environment, after all, he made it. God not only explains why the environment goes wrong, but He also tells us how to fix it.
William Taylor - The Christian life is a battle between the flesh and the Spirit. We can fight against sin because God dwells in the Christian by His Spirit. Alongside the new fight, there is real aid: we have a new family, a new father, and a new future.
William Taylor - The life of the Spirit-filled Christian will be one of battle. This is because God and the world are diametrically opposed. But the conflict is worth it because to be Spirit-filled is to be a child of God.
William Taylor - The Christian message is not self-help, but supernatural help. God has done the humanly impossible by forever clearing all our debts. God now dwells within the Christian. He enables us to live a new life.
William Taylor - Sometimes people suggest that a person becomes a Christian because they need a crutch in their lives. Paul suggests the opposite: it's when a person becomes a Christian that the battle begins. Becoming a Christian is to enter a war zone and a life of struggle. How should we respond to this reality?
William Taylor - How do we curb lawlessness? Legislation means more and more rules, rule enforcers, and lawyers. Should we do away with rules altogether? Both options end up binding us in knots. But there is another way made possible through the work of Jesus. Paul argues that the Christian is now liberated from the law yet filled with a new desire and capacity to do what is right.
William Taylor - We like to consider ourselves liberated souls, free of restraints, making independent choices out of a free will. The evidence suggests otherwise. Indeed, the reality of sin and death in every man or woman's life indicates the universal imprisonment of humanity. There is, however, an alternative master—righteousness! If we submit ourselves to Jesus' mastery we will find ourselves not only truly free, but truly human.
William Taylor - If God's forgiveness of sin magnifies his remarkable kindness, then why don't Christians 'cut loose' and indulge in sin? The answer to this frequently asked question is surprising. It has to do with whether a person lives in the past or for the future. Christians are people of the future.
William Taylor - God's verdict on the life of every human is 'death'. Every man, woman, and child on earth will one day die. Only one man has defeated this reign of death—Jesus. Those who come under the rule of King Jesus will find the bondage of death broken as they enter Jesus' kingdom of inextinguishable life, won by his sacrifice on the cross.
William Taylor - There is no suggestion that the Christian will be exempt from suffering. But God guarantees that Christians can hold their heads up high in the midst of adversity and that they will not be dismayed on the day of judgment.
William Taylor - The reasons for us feeling insecure at the start of 2022 are immense. Uncertainties abound—employment instability, relationships, the environment, finances, medical worries. This makes the key issue at the heart of Romans 5–8 acutely relevant. Assurance is the theme and Paul's aim is to convince us that in this broken and unstable world our position before God is rock-solid and secure. Little could fill us with more joy at the onset of a new year.
Leo Elbourne - A new year is here and the old is gone forever. While for some that may be a relief, do you ever worry that it's all going a bit quickly? The fleetingness of life can leave us feeling either anxious or nostalgic. Ecclesiastes 3 teaches us how Christians should respond.
William Taylor - The subject of Romans 4:16–25 is faith. George Michael sang about it. Believers say that we must ‘keep it’. Christians are often told by others that they wish they had it! And the question is this: what exactly is this true, biblical faith that ‘unlocks’ the blessings of God? Abraham shows us the way in which Jesus makes this possible.
Rico Tice - What's the greatest gift at Christmas? It's that in whatever our circumstances we have forgiveness and a future. In Jesus we see God intervening in his world. Jesus’ name literally means God saves and that’s what he does. We can relate to God not because of our perfect performance but because of his. He died for our sin and gives us his perfect life.
William Taylor - God's great offer to all of humanity is that his blessing will be lavished on any individual who trusts in the person and work of Jesus. This offer of unimaginable riches has always come through faith alone—meaning the message of God's grace is good news for the whole world. We destroy this great offer if we add anything of our own to it.
William Taylor - At the heart of the Christian faith is God's offer of free forgiveness to anyone and everyone. But this offer raises a key question about God — is God just in making this offer? If he isn't, we have a problem. But if he is, then that’s something really worth celebrating.
Andrew Sach - Are you 100% sure you want to be an agnostic? Not all indecision is life-threatening but being undecided about a medical procedure or a spiritual issue, on the other hand, might be fatal. What if it's dangerous to be agnostic?
Andrew Sach - Are you 100% sure you want to be an agnostic? Many of us think we can't know for certain whether God exists. Dr Andrew Sach, who used to be an agnostic, will set out the reasons why we can have certainty regarding the existence of God and why sitting on the fence is neither a comfortable nor justifiable position.
William Taylor - We are all used to the idea of performance appraisals. But what about God's appraisal of humanity? God is at the judge's bench and humanity is in the dock. His verdict on humanity's performance is blunt, but it is also essential as only an accurate diagnosis can lead to effective treatment.
William Taylor - God’s ‘equality’ agenda is absolute, without favouritism, or discrimination. God offers his grace, free of charge, to all. This is a wonderful encouragement. But this same lack of partiality is also terrifying. It means he will judge all, equally. Privilege and pedigree will be irrelevant. God will judge on the basis of truth and according to what we have done.
Wes Illingsworth - Justice: the main religions speak about it, and most people long for it, but so many are tragically vague or in denial about what will happen on Judgment Day. Romans 2:1–11 equips us to be clear, prepared and loving to those around us.
William Taylor - What are the signs that all is not well between humanity and God? Many would point to ‘earthquake, wind and fire’, ‘pestilence, disease, and economic woe’. The pandemic. But the Apostle Paul goes elsewhere. He sees as inevitable that when men and women suppress the plain truth of the existence of God, men and women will be given over both to heterosexual sexual practice outside of marriage, and to homosexual practice. What are the signs that God’s present indignation is directed against a culture? Heterosexual and homosexual sinful activity. (In this talk the immensely sensitive subject of homosexual desire and practice is tackled with reference both to Paul’s teaching and to those who would wish to argue that Paul is not condemning all homosexual sexual activity).
William Taylor - Why does the City need to hear the news about Jesus Christ when there are so many other looming crises such as the pandemic, climate change, and fuel shortages? Ignoring God is the biggest issue and therefore there is nothing more urgent than the City hearing the gospel.
William Taylor - Even secular historians agree that the apostle Paul's influence and mission changed the course of world history. Paul's message is still vital and glorious for us today.
Wes Illingsworth - Seeking to serve Christ at work and in everyday life might seem like we're swimming against the tide and it's tempting to disengage. But what if we can be sure that we are doing God's perfect will?
William Taylor - Paul's letter to the Romans launched the Reformation in Europe. It lay behind the major Christian revival that swept through England and the Americas in the 18th century. While the letter had a revolutionary effect on world events in the past, it still impacts the individual today. The apostle Paul says he writes so that his readers are strengthened for courageous Christian discipleship.
William Taylor - ‘What on earth is God doing?’ is a question that is posed both by believers and unbelievers alike. Jesus has a clear and wonderful answer about the agenda of God today. In these passages, we’ll hear his response.