St Matts Weekly Message: Recent Episodes
St Matts Plymouth
Welcome to the St Matts Podcast!
Come back each week to catch up on the latest talks from our Sunday Services and other special events.
St Matts is a church in Plymouth, UK with a desire to play our part in the evangelisation of the nation, the revitalisation of the church and the transformation of society.
As part of our new 'All-in' service where we all joined together as one church of all ages, Sophie shares what it means for us know the love of God as a gift of the Holy Spirit and how we might share that with those around us!
As part of our Holy Spirit series are looking at some of the gifts of the Holy Spirit - free gifts of grace given to Gods people to encourage the church and its mission. This week Teressa explores the gift 'Healing'
As part of our Holy Spirit series we will be looking at some of the gifts of the Holy Spirit over the next few weeks- free gifts of grace given to Gods people to encourage the church and its mission. This week we start with looking at 'Tongues'- an often misinterpreted gift. Let's get our heads round this together but perhaps more important begin to boldly ask God for the gifts he wants to give us his people !
So we've looks at who the Holy Spirit is and what he does- but what does that have to do with us today? Join Simon as he helps us think about how each of us can be filled with the Holy Spirit- Holy Spirit Come!
Jeff continues our new series on the Holy Spirit looking at the work of the Holy Spirit- what does the Holy Spirit do in us and in the world! Enjoy :)
Teressa takes us through the story of the day of Pentecost- time and time again through history something special happens when people are 'together' and have courage to step out into what God has called them to.
Our Associate Vicar Mike looks at 'The Great Comission'- a final encounter of Jesus with his disciples which prepared them to be transformed from a group which had 'gathered' around Jesus to a church 'sent' by him... a people called to go, to make and to have confidence. Mike also shares some of his heart for St Simons church ahead of the Sunday launch service and how this fits with out calling as a 'sent' church in the city.
Peter probably knew Jesus best of all but even he let Jesus down. Sophie takes us through the beautiful story of Peter's restoration to relationship with Jesus- and how that can be our story too, no matter how far we feel we have failed him- Jesus restores us to fullness in him.
On the road to Emmaus two of Jesus' disciples were leaving the city full of disappointment, low and let down. But in their encounter with Jesus everything is turned around!
Continuing our 'Graves into Gardens' series Sally speaks on the story of Thomas and how his doubt was transformed into faith as he encountered Jesus.
New series time! We'll be heading through some of the post resurrection stories of encounter with Jesus as we look at how he changes people lives and outlooks- Graves into Gardens!
Palm Sunday! We're taking a look through the story of Jesus entering Jerusalem - the King... but perhaps a different kind of king.
Join us for the next in our series as Sally looks at Jesus- the way, the truth and the life.
It's Sophie's (our new Vicar) first week! Have a listen and hear her opening up these wonderful verses from John 15 and encouraging us to stay connected to Jesus!
How does Christian life play out in the tricky dynamics of family life? What does Paul mean when he speaks about the relationships between husbands and wives, children and parents, and even slaves? And how might we take the high call of discipleship on in our own close relationships- as we choose mutual flourishing (everyone getting involved), mutual submission (everyone giving themselves) and mutual service (everyone working for Jesus).
If the image of the invisible God lives in us, if nothing can be added to or taken away away from what Jesus has done for us, if nothing can separate us from the love of God... what's our part in all of this? What does it look like to live out life in the light of those beautiful truths? Have a listen to find out more...
As we continue the series in Colossians Claire helps us to think through how the freedom we have in Christ should lead us to full devotion to him- clinging to Jesus, keeping in the light and staying devoted to him.
Fullness in Jesus is meant to lead to Freedom in him- but that often seems like a long way off! Join Graham as he takes us on a journey towards how we can experience freedom rooted in Christ in our minds and from the enemies schemes.
Join Sally and Adrian as the take us through one of the most beautiful descriptions about Jesus in the New Testament. It really is ALL about Jesus!
Jeff carries on the series in Colossians. The hope of the world is a mystery revealed in Jesus. It comes at a cost - but the cost is SO worth it, it is Christ in you the hope of glory!
We're starting a new series for a new year! Over the next week join St Matts as we journey through the book of Colossians - a letter written to the freshling church at Colossae praising God for the seed of the Gospel that has been growing and bearing fruit and encouraging them to go deeper that as they understand the fullness of God in Jesus they might also be brought to fullness in Jesus. In todays passage Paul prays that they (and we!) would bear fruit, grow in knowing God, be strengthen by the spirit and give thanks — what a great way to start a new year!
Join Mike to find out how graffiti and cereal might help us to embrace all that God has for us as we head into 2024.
Join Graham as he helps us to understand the meaning of advent — Engaging with the gospel and then learning how to live that out in the same through embracing repentance, eating (belief), expecting (being immersed!), and being empowered (by Holy Spirit).
How are you sleeping at the moment? How are your peace levels? We speak and sing about peace so much at Christmas and yet it is a notoriously unpeaceful time of year. So what is the Peace that is promised at Christmas when the angels visit some shepherds on a hill and promised "Peace to all on whom his favour rests." Join mike to find out more...
As we round off this "Back to Basics" series we take a slight change of tack as we explore the big topic of climate change. Join Dan who has a background in climate science as he goes through both the serious implications of climate change from a scientific point of view as well as the reason Christians should be leading the way in caring for the world that God has gifted us with.
Join Claire (chaplain at Plymouth Marjon and member our church) as she carries on our "Back to Basics" series, looking at the often missed discipline of Solitude - space we all need in this busy life to reconnect with Jesus.
Why do Christians get together on Sunday to sing together? And is that even what worship is? Join Mike and our panel - Noah, Naomi, Claire and Graham as they discuss all things worship - why we do it, who it's for and how we can grow together in this area of our life as a church. Enjoy!
Sally speaks about the beautiful and fundamental practice of forgiveness. Forgiveness starts with God's great mercy, it flows to us — sometimes we need to learn to forgive ourselves and it enables us to make those difficult costly choices to forgive those who have hurt us: "To forgive is to set a prisoner free... and to find that the prisoner is yourself."
What's your experience of communion? A key part of your discipleship, or something slightly weird that happens up the front of church which you're not quite sure about? Communion was given as a gift by Jesus to his disciples so that we might remember and enter into the story of his death and resurrection- it is a beautiful picture of the promises of God to us, promises which we step into simply by opening our hands and receiving. And through it we get to experience union with God and union with each other — what a gift!
We often pray 'Come Holy Spirit' - but what (or who) is the Holy Spirit? How do we understand the Holy Spirits work in the world and in our lives and how can we each invite Holy Spirit to come and make a home in us? Join Jeff as we explore some of these questions!
Are you feeling refreshed, rested and full of life? Probably not. God has built into the fabric of creation a rhythm of rest - it's called the Sabbath. Come join Mike as we explore what the Sabbath is and why the idea is so important for us... so we can Get Grace, Learn to Stop and Practice Delight.
Money is a funny thing - it doesn't want to just be useful in our lives but has this strange ability to exert control over us. But generosity is in the DNA of the Kingdom of God! WE have a God who has designed a world in which those that sow, reap a harvest of multiplication and the same is true with our giving- the harvest will be worth it. Join Teressa as she explores this important topic and you might find out out a few things about St Matts too...
If you'd like to know more about giving at St Matts or how you can join in head here.
Why has the Bible been the number 1 selling book ever since it was first published? Why should we bother reading it? Graham unpacks the message and purpose of scripture for us — it is the way that God has chosen to reveal himself, to impart life and to empower his people!
Mike begins our new series 'Back to Basics' asking the question Why Church? Have you ever found yourself asking why you turn up to church or why you are part of one? We look through 1 Peter 2:4-10 where we see the church as the People of God defined by grace, The Temple of God built on christ, and a Priesthood of believers whose purpose is to declare his praises. What a gift to us as believers to be part of this beautiful thing that God has created called The Church!
As part of our 7th Birthday celebrations, Mike our curate reminds us how we can make faith simple, following in Jesus' way: Know God, Love each other and Make a Difference!
The last of our Summer series — Enoch was a man who walked with God for a really really long time. Jeff takes us through the brief mentions of Enoch in the scriptures and shows us how we can learn the kind of discipleship which is "a long obedience in the same direction."
This week we were joined by Becky Murray. Becky is the founder and CEO of One By One, a charity aiming to end the exploitation of the vulnerable across the world. As well as sharing about the story, mission and work of One by One, Becky also shared a message from the book of Exodus with the title 'I AM'. Becky encourages us to think about where God could send us to build his kingdom - whether on a mission trip to another country or volunteering at the Soup Run next week. All we need to do is respond just like Isaiah did: "Here I am, send me."
Back to School Sunday! It’s a time of year when lots of people are getting ready for new things or getting back into old things. Mike continues our Summer Heroes series taking us through three episodes in the life of Joshua in the Old Testament and what they might teach us as we head into this next term, like Joshua, knowing God has big plans, living faithfully in the waiting rather than getting stuck, and keeping up our hunger for God.
Phil shared from the story of Daniel in the Bible. Daniel (of lions den fame!) was an amazing man of faith in the Old Testament who chose to live faithfully to God in a very hostile environment of exile. He was also gifted in interpreting dreams and had insight from God into the unseen spiritual world around us. We need to recognise evil in the world around us and these things can seem a little weird and even frightening. However we rest in the fact that God has won the victory in Jesus, and are called to continue to live faithfully like Daniel — keeping on doing good, focussing on Godly things and holding on to the truths of the Word of God which the Bible calls the Sword of the Spirit.
This week we were blessed to hear Adrian share with us on 3 of his heroes from the book of Daniel: Shadrach Meshach and Abednego. These three men are praised for their unwavering faith in God, even when faced with the threat of a fiery furnace. Adrian challenges us if we would remain as strong in a similar situation. At the end of the message, we look a Peter and his denial of Jesus three times out of fear for his own life. Despite his denial, Peter was restored by Jesus and went on to preach the gospel, write two books of the New Testament, and inspire millions. Adrian encourages us that even if we have faltered in their faith - unlike Shadrach, Meshach & Abednego, we can be restored and make a significant impact- just like Peter.
This week Teressa kicked off our new message series: 'Summer Heros.' In this new series, we will be looking at our speaker's favourite figures from the Old Testament and what learning we can take from their stories to help us in our own walk with Jesus. Teressa kicks us off this week in a somewhat unlikely place - the story of Abraham, Sarai and Hagar...
We had an issue in recording this week so we are missing the first few moments of the message. This is the entirety of the reading Teressa is speaking from when the podcast begins:
Genesis 15:18 to 16:6
So the Lord made a covenant with Abram that day and said, “I have given this land to your descendants, all the way from the border of Egypt to the great Euphrates River… 1 Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had no children. So Sarai took her servant, an Egyptian woman named Hagar, and gave her to Abram so she could bear his children. "The Lord has kept me from having children," Sarai said to Abram. "Go and sleep with my servant. Perhaps I can have children through her.” And Abram agreed. So Sarai, Abram’s wife, took Hagar the Egyptian servant and gave her to Abram as a wife. (This happened ten years after Abram had settled in the land of Canaan.) So Abram slept with Hagar, and she became pregnant. When Hagar knew she was pregnant, she began to treat her mistress Sarai with contempt. Then Sarai said to Abram, “This is all your fault! Now this servant of mine is pregnant, and she despises me, though I myself gave her privilege of sleeping with you. The LORD will make you pay for doing this to me! Abram replied, “Since she is your servant, you may deal with her as you see fit.” So Sarai treated her harshly and Hagar ran away.
Apologies for the delay in uploading Sunday's message- the whole team have been away at Creation Fest!
In this, the final instalment in our Upside Down series through the book of Acts, Mike looks at our whole life mission as Christians. The passage for this weeks message is Acts 20:17-38.
In our penultimate message in our Upside Down series, Graham Smith takes us through the story of Paul and Silas in Prison in Acts 16:13-34. He draws on his experience as a missionary in China for 7 years to help shed some life on the experience of persecution millions have faced over the centuries up until the present day - including Paul and Silas in our passage.
Graham finishes by asking us the following questions:
- Are you looking for God’s opportunity for you?
- Are you open to God’s unlikely plan?
- Are you ready to embrace the unexpected, overcome fear, and choose joy?
- Have you tasted the joy of breakthrough?
Join us next week as our Curate Mike takes us through our final instalment in our Upside Down series 🙌
As the early church grew it also faced lots of difficulties. This week Sally, one of our Church Wardens, takes us through the story of Peter’s miraculous escape in Acts 12. It’s a story that starts with the church in crisis - James has been put to death, Peter has been put in prison and the church is being persecuted. In the face of all this the church pray - both earnestly and honestly, and Peter joins in with Gods amazing rescue plan. Many Christians around the world face persecution for their faith - we get to join in praying earnestly and honestly for christians around the world, as well as asking God to help us to find freedom from the things which hold us back in our own lives.
As humans, we all have underlying prejudices. The thing about prejudice is that it's not easy to spot it ourselves- sometimes we need some help. That's exactly what we see the Holy Spirit doing in today's passage as the boundaries of the early church continue to be pushed outward. Join Mike as we find out about an unexpected character seeking God, about a follower of Jesus making space to listen to and be challenged by God, and about the widening circle of the Kingdom of God where everyone is welcome but everyone is also transformed.
Continuing with our Upside Down series, we were so blessed to have Claire McIlroy speak to us on Passion, Purpose & Perseverance through the lens of Acts 9:1-22.
This week was our Preachtastic service! Across the day we had 6 brilliant speakers give a message as part of our current series 'Upside Down'. Each speaker based their messages on the same passage from Acts 8:26-40. We've put all the speakers together in one podcast ready for you to catch up on!
The speakers this Sunday were: Natasha Gilbert, Martin Haworth, Naomi Manuel, Beth Horton, John Bakare & Debs Marks-Lenton!
We often think of the church in Acts as an idyllic community, and with the beautiful vision of community life in Acts 2 & 4 it's true — the miracle of Pentecost wasn't just visible in signs, wonders, and healings but in the creation of a new united family who shared and cared for those in need! But as with any community things quickly go wrong. Mike takes us through a story of crisis in the early church as we think about how we can respond to being an imperfect community, as we learn to live community life in both organised and organic ways and share the good news of Jesus together in both word and deed.
Jeff takes us through our next exciting Acts story in the Upside Down series looking at the first miracle which happened after the Spirit was poured out at Pentecost. Miracles are defined as extraordinary events - but they weren’t extraordinary for Jesus and they were an expectation of the early church. They saw the overwhelming need around them, responded with obedience to the call of Jesus and took faith risks. What risks is God calling us to take? Praying for healing will always be risky but perhaps not doing it is just as risky?
Rob Fowler, previous curate at St Matts takes us on a journey through the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 17, powerfully drawing out our reliance on God's unforeseen provision, the unexpected partnerships we get to embrace and and the need for instinctive love for the one. He also reminds us of our link with compassion and how each of us can get involved! If you’d like to sponsor a child why not find out more here: www.compassionuk.org/sponsorship
Up next in our Upside Down teaching series is Pentecost Sunday! Mike takes us through the story of Pentecost in Acts 2 when the Spirit fell in power and people immediately began to ask what on earth was going on. He encourages us that because of the Spirit coming at Pentecost all those years ago, today, everyone can be filled to overflowing. Isn't that good news?!
On the day of Pentecost, the Spirit fell in power and people immediately began to ask what on earth was going on. In this Try Church message, Mike takes us through the first ‘Gospel preach’ as Peter began to explain to the gathering crowds who Jesus is, why he came and what we can each do about it. You’ll also hear some top tips on sharing this message with your friends and family!
This week we rewind back to the beginning of Acts as Teressa continues our preaching series ‘Upside Down.’ Teressa takes us through Acts 1:1-8 as Jesus spends time with his followers before the action of Acts really kicks off. We all go through ‘in-between’ times in our lives — the challenge from this passage is to use these times to let go of our own vision and grab hold of God's vision.
Mike kicks off our new series ‘Upside Down’ where we will be tracking through the book of Acts looking to be inspired by the story of the early church and how the Holy Spirit came upon the early followers of Jesus to build the church and to empower them for the mission that God had given to them. However you feel about mission and evangelism — excited, terrified or anywhere in-between — our prayer is that as you listen toda y and as we go through this series we would all learn increasingly to step out where we are, to join in with God in his mission in the world, and to believe that it makes a difference!
Phil spoke on Sunday on being ‘Servants of the King.’ In the parable of the talents servants are given great treasure to use, steward and multiply. What have we been given by God and how can we cooperate with the Spirit to grow in these character traits? Listen back to find out!
On this vision and gift Sunday Mike reminded us of our purpose as a church and a bit about the journey we’ve been on as we looked at the story of the journey to Emmaus - walking with Jesus, walking together and running to share the good news!
This week Graham spoke to us about the resurrection revelled - just as it was to the disciples 2000 years ago. Graham took us through the Proof of the resurrection, the Peace of the resurrection and finally the power of the resurrection.
Listen back to our Easter Sunday message where Sally shared the good news of Jesus's death and resurrection and the hope we find in him. This week remeber these three things: don't be afraid, come and see and go and tell!
Our curate Mike kicks off our Easter services with his message from Palm Sunday. Through the lens of the Palm Sunday story Mike looks at the call of Jesus to obideince, to lay down our lives as an act of worship and to see our communites stirred up by the name of Jesus.
Join us for the rest of our easter services, check out the website for the details: stmplymouth.org.uk/easter
This week come and find out a little bit about what a Bishop does, what it means to be part of the CofE and how we might play our part in God's mission in Devon and beyond as we live our lives ‘all in’ for Jesus. We had the Bishop of Plymouth James Grier joining us at both the Ten and the Five for a short interview and a message from Luke 5 where Jesus calls his first followers to step out in faith - first just a small step, then a little deeper and eventually to lay down their nets and follow Jesus.
Jeff took us through the story of Hannah in the Bible. Mother’s Day can be a blessing but also a painful time and Hannah’s story contains plenty of both. As we look at the pain and the blessing of Hannah’s story we discover her beautiful response of prayer, sacrifice and worship.
After finishing off our Teach Us To Pray series last week, this week as a one-off, our curate Mike looks at Money. Looking at a passage from 1 Timothy 6, Mike reflects on the following points: God owns it all, We already have enough (most of us), We love money and lastly on the invitation picked right out of our reading: Do Good, Be rich in good works, be generous and be ready to share.
What a joy to have Sarah Yardley (Mission Lead at creation fest) finishing our ‘Teach us to Pray’ series! Sarah spoke on ‘Being with God’ - encouraging us really simply and practically to make space for God without agenda by Looking, Yielding and Resting.
This series is inspired by the discipleship tool ‘Practicing the Way.’ For more resources and information head to: https://www.practicingtheway.org
This week, our Prayer Pastor Phil Burgess continued our series on 'Teach Us To Pray'. This time, Phil shared on Listening to God.
This series is inspired by the discipleship tool ‘Practicing the Way.’ For more resources and information head to: https://www.practicingtheway.org
This week Mike our curate continued our series ‘Teach us to pray.’ Most Christians say they find prayer difficult so let’s learn from how Jesus did it! Join us as Mike takes us through the 3 ways of talking with God - prayers of gratitude, prayers of lament and prayers of petition & intercession.
This series is inspired by the discipleship tool ‘Practicing the Way.’ For more resources and information head to: https://www.practicingtheway.org
This week Adrian our Churchwarden began our series ‘Teach us to pray.’ Most Christians say they find prayer difficult so let’s learn from how Jesus did it! Join us as Adrian takes us through the Lord’s Prayer- the way Jesus taught his disciples to talk to God- in private, with praise, needing his presence, asking for provision and seeking his providence and protection.
This series is inspired by the discipleship tool ‘Practicing the Way.’ For more resources and information head to: https://www.practicingtheway.org
This week was a ‘Preachtastic’ week - we had different people from across our church family, at all different stages of life, having a go at a mini-talk. This was the last in our ‘One Thing’ series, looking at Paul’s encouragement in Philippians 3: “One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Have a listen to Clair, Derek, Hannah, Dave and Amy share their experience of ‘leaving behind’, and ‘straining ahead’! Unfortunately, we had some technical difficulties recording our final speaker Els's brilliant message - hopefully you were there to listen in person for that one!
What is the one thing you would ask God? As we go through life, with all its difficulties, we inevitably come across those ‘why God’ moments. David’s question of God in Psalm 27 is the only one that can help us to deal with all those other questions: ‘One thing I ask of the Lord, to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.’ Join Mike as he goes through Psalm 27 looking at how we can ‘dwell’ — remember all that God has done, sit in the present moment of his presence, and wait in confidence and hope for the reality of what God intends to do in the future.
Continuing our ‘One Thing’ series, Teressa spoke about 3 things that Jesus doesn’t do in a story about a man who was born blind but is healed by Jesus. No blame, no barriers, no bragging no expectation of deep theology of healing. Instead a simple recognition of what has happened — a beautiful ‘say what you see’ moment — ‘One thing I know, I was blind, but now I see.’
Sally Pearson carried on our ‘One Thing’ Series at the Five looking at the story of Martha and Mary. There are so many questions plaguing our lives — all of the answers are found in Jesus, in intimacy with him, in His face! Mary found her place of devotion with Jesus but how can we learn to gaze on the face of Jesus without the answer simply being to go and live life as a hermit? Listen on to find out!
Jeff Stephenson carried on our ‘One Thing’ Series at The Ten looking at the story of Martha and Mary — Mary had chosen the better thing, relationship with Jesus! We are created for relationship and Jesus values our friendship with Him above our service to Him so let’s invest all we have into that ‘one thing’ we need.
Mike kicked off our new series ‘One Thing’ looking at the story of man who came to Jesus with a big question, but didn’t go away with the answer he wanted. Jesus knows us better than anyone and the challenge is not to take on more for Jesus but to look at what we need to lay down to pursue the one thing that really matters!
People all over the World celebrate Christmas in different ways. Just like the Wisemen gave gifts to Jesus, we give gifts to others. But the greatest gift of all is the gift that God gave us, Jesus. Our Kids Pastor Amy shared a brilliant talk for children and adults alike. She reminds us that the festivities are lovely but let’s remember the reason for the season – the gift of Jesus.
Graham Smith, retired vicar and part of the St Matts family, shared an Advent message at the Ten as we wait for and celebrate the profound and supreme moment of ‘heaven invading earth.’ He encouraged us to tap into both the word and spirit as we seek God invading our lives today!
'To all our questions God offers us the story of his life with us.’
Our good friend Sarah Yardley who is the Mission and Ministry Lead at Creation Fest spoke at St Matts Evening Carols challenging us again to receive the impossible truth- ‘God is with us.'
‘The Beatitudes are how you spot a local in the Kingdom of God.’ This week Teressa finished off our ‘Blessed Life’ series by looking at the final Beatitude on ‘The Persecuted.’
Life as a Christian wasn’t meant to be easy and this beatitude reminds us that we are not expecting to be airlifted to safety in the midst of life’s troubles. Instead, we are encouraged to keep pursuing right relationship with God and doing what is right knowing that God will re-purpose persecution for his glory.
In his final talk at St Matts our vicar Olly shares thoughts on Jesus’ penultimate beatitude: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." We’re invited to make peace with God; peace with others; and peace in the world.
The heart is not only central to physical life but also spiritual. Claire shares wisdom on how to grow a pure heart resulting in better spiritual health.
There was an issue with our recording for this week but the audio is back to normal from 1:41 in - so stick with it!
Mike shares three moments of remembrance in the scripture and how they can lead us to a deeper understanding of Remembrance Sunday and of our faith in general.
God calls everyone into a relationship with him and to make a positive difference in the world. Hannah shares ways in which we can discern and live out God’s call for our lives.
Olly shares thoughts on the fifth beatitude, ‘Blessed are the merciful’ - know that God is merciful; be merciful to others; show mercy to yourself.
This Sunday was a Preachtastics Sunday where we got to hear from six members of the St Matts family across the day.
Each of the speakers are continuing our Blessed life series looking at the 4th Beatitude: ‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.’ – Matthew 5:6
It’s always so inspiring to see how God speaks to everyone so individually. We’d recommend listening to all of them as each bought a different perspective and angle to the passage, but if you want to listen to someone specific, use the timestamps below:
Jason Gilbert | 0:00
Paula Reeves | 11:24
Adrian Boughton | 23:07
Kwaku Owusu | 35:07 - Unfortunately part of the recording for Kwaku’s brilliant talk corrupted, but we’ve included the last few minutes!
Georgia Grinham | 37:06
Louis Winstone | 45:32
Phil shares wisdom on what it is to be 'meek' and apply Jesus' third Beatitude: 'Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.' (Matthew 5:5)
Mourning can deepen our humanity, grow community and cultivate character. Olly shared wisdom from Jesus' second beatitude: 'Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.'
Our curate Mike begins a new series ‘Blessed Life’ looking at some of the most famous words of scripture - the Beatitudes. What are the Beatitudes? What does it mean to be blessed? And who are the poor in spirit? Have a listen and find out more about these questions… and about piles of rubbish, bears, Brother Andrew and what these beautiful Jesus blessings can teach us about the surprising upside-down kingdom of God!
For our 6th Anniversary, Olly shared some of the story of the church’s beginnings and some of our key values - knowing God; growing friendships and making a difference.
Mike, our curate, takes us through Revelation 21 and reflects on this time of mourning for The Queen, calling us to grieve with hope, to hold on to Jesus the one true constant presence in life, to embrace tension and, inspired by The Queen, to live as servants of God.
Olly encourages us in our spiritual lives to keep travelling home, keep travelling with others and take time to stop and celebrate.
Mike takes us through 6 life rhythms to help us sharpen our spiritual pencils ready for a new term.
Phil encourages us to walk closely with Jesus the one who has divine insight, divine foresight, and divine oversight of our lives.
Olly shares five top summer spiritual tips from the sea: keep making fresh starts; keep taking fresh opportunities; keep growing friendships; find a coach; and enjoy life!
This week Mariska Minter shared a message with us on Godly rest based on a passage from Matthew 11.28-30. Mariska encouraged us to explore the questions; why we need rest, what is rest and how do we get rest.
This week Teressa spoke on keeping going on our faith based on a passage from Hebrews 11: 29 - 12:2. She encouraged us that God records faith not failure, that our faith is never wasted, that faith is greatly celebrated and that Jesus is the protector of our faith.
Life quickly becomes cluttered doesn’t it? Mike asks the question- what if we each take time this summer with the words of Psalm 51, to be renewed in focus on God, to be refuelled by the Holy Spirit, and to restore our joy!
Prayer is central to the spiritual life - our communion and connection with God.
Following on from last week, Olly brings us the second and final part of his 'People of Prayer' mini-series.
Prayer is central to the spiritual life - our communion and connection with God. Olly shares a few ways to grow in prayer: dealing with distraction, learning from others and going gently on ourselves.
Teressa shares how Jesus is the power of God, how we can experience God's power in our everyday lives and to cultivate a bigger understanding of who Jesus is.
This week Mike takes us through Galatians 6 where we encounter again the beautiful message of the cross - as we make that our only ‘boast,’ we’ll grow into a community free enough and humble enough to bear each others burdens!
This week, Sally reminds us that God is a God of extraordinary generosity and calls us into lives of generosity - even if it’s sometimes uncomfortable.
In his final preach with us at St Matts, our curate Reuben, gives us a message on 'Offensive Faith'. If Abraham is "our father of faith," what can we learn from his life? In particular, this talk reflects upon Abraham's ultimate test from God in relation to his one and only son, Isaac. We then consider how this story prepares us for Jesus.
For our Love South West 2022 Try Church Sunday, our vicar Olly shares a message about the God of love who wants to guide us, grow us and gather us into a community of love, with God and each other.
At Pentecost we remember and celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit, the birth of Christian Church and the beginning of its mission to the world- joining in what God is doing by his Spirit and through his church to bring his love, healing and wholeness to the world and restore all things and all people to himself. At Pentecost we discover that Gods love- experienced as we receive the gift of God’s Spirit- is available to us all as we turn back to him with all our hearts, are baptised, ask to be filled and then wait on him to fill us, just as they did at Pentecost!
This week, as part of our Preachtastic Sunday, Helen Pearce spoke on Psalm 130:5, encouraging us in whatever we are doing, take time to wait for the Lord and give him control. In doing so, we find rest from striving, pain and disappointment that so often comes when we try and make things happen in our own strength.
This week, as part of our Preachtastic Sunday, Michael Sumner spoke on Micah 6:8, encouraging us to pursue God’s heart, which is Love.
This week, as part of our Preachtastic Sunday, our Youth pastor Lucy spoke on 2 Corinthians 12:9, encouraging us that life isn’t always easy, but we have a father who delights in meeting us in the middle of our pain, anger and confusing and carrying us to a place of freedom, life and hope.
This week, as part of our Preachtastic Sunday, Maggie Horton spoke on 2 Corinthians 12:9, encouraging us that God goes with us in our trials and walks step by step with us as we put one foot in-front of the other.
This week, as part of our Preachtastic Sunday, Dean Jacobs spoke on Psalm 24, encouraging us to open up our gates, these walls we place around us, and let God, the King of Glory enter in.
This week, as part of our Preachtastic Sunday, Helen Pearce spoke on Philippians 4:13, encouraging us do all things through Christ who gives us strength.
In this talk we look at a miracle healing in John 5 in a place called Bethzatha or "The House of the Olive." We consider 2 ways that we might give up and how to keep rediscovering the presence of Jesus. We finish by wondering how we might answer the question Jesus poses: "Do you want to get well?"
Mike shares a surprise encounter with a sheep as we look at some of the amazing things Jesus had to say about being one of his sheep — open to him, listening to his voice, known by him and held safe in his hands.
In this talk, we look at Acts 9 and the transformation that happens when Paul meets Jesus. We reflect upon how our own personalities are being redeemed by Jesus, what Jesus being full of grace means and how Jesus then sends us out with an audacious task to change the world.
How do we successfully seek to live authentic, Spirit-empowered and impactful lives for and with Jesus when we have so many doubts and questions?
In John 20:19-31 we discover the resurrected Jesus revealing himself to his disciples for the very first time, the God who speaks peace over us and calls us close to his heart. We find “doubting Thomas” who sets us an example to continue turning up until God shows up, who is committed to community and is real and honest about where he is at. Despite his doubts and questions, he continues to press into the presence of Jesus until he encounters him as his “Lord and God” and who continues to go on to share his story and God’s story in faith and with courage.
Oghogho digs into her favourite verses from Romans 8:38-39 inspiring us to hold onto the unfathomable love of God.
Jess encourages us to hold onto and cultivate a right image of God as the happy God with a message of love, hope and joy for us all.
Colin shares inspiration from St Paul's portrait of Jesus in Philippians 2:5-11 - a picture of humility, selflessness and authenticity.
Phil inspires us to learn from and follow the way of Jesus and his humble entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.
Olly inspires us to be people who are growing in prayer, making new disciples and serving others with joy.
Come find out about 5 amazing women who changed the course of history for the people of God by choosing faith over fear and acting with compassion as they joined in with God working his purpose out.
A & E Consultant & Churchwarden, Sally Pearson, shares wisdom from Psalm 63 on how to draw strength from God, particularly during difficult times.
We all face trials. It's sadly an inevitable part of being human. Thankfully the bible gives us instructions on how to deal with them! Noah explores what James has to say about trials, and what we can learn from him
Being a citizen means belonging to a country and being under certain laws but also being afforded certain rights and privileges. In this talk we ask what the Bible writer Paul means when he says we're "Citizens of Heaven."
Wilderness times and seasons can be disorienting and difficult. Olly encourages us to embrace the wilderness as God is often most at work and, like Jesus, use it as a time to cultivate your inner life.
This week, our Ordinand robin unpacks Revelation chapter 4 where we see an incredible vision of heavenly worship. From this passage, we discover the power, the purpose and the person of worship. Worship is so powerful that we begin to reflect what we worship, and the driving force of worship is love. We worship God in response to his incredible love for us displayed when he created the world and died on the cross so we can come to know and experience this love in our lives. And as we lay aside our idols and worship the God we were made for, we are transformed by love, for love.
Our curate Mike takes a look at Genesil 2 and how it can help us understand the storms of life, why they happen and how we can hold on to hope in the midst of them.
What if everything in life was an invitation to intimacy with Christ. Sarah unpacks the cost, joy and expectancy of intimacy.
This week, our Vicar Olly reminds us that we can be real with Jesus and simply put his words of life and life into practice.
For the first of our Preachtastics this week, Mark shares inspiration from the faith and life of his parents example.
For the second of our two Preachtastics this week, Janet shares personal encouragement of God’s healing.
Listen to our curate and Small Groups pastor Reuben explain what St Matt's Small Groups core words "connect, protect, grow," Hebrews 10 and a long dramatic story about buffalo have in common.
Our Vicar Olly shares wisdom from Jesus' first miracle, turning water into wine. Encouraging us to live like a wedding and expect the unexpected.
You are a child of God, loved by him before you do or say anything. What might it look like to take hold of that this year? Join Mike as he takes us back to the story of Jesus' baptism looking at how we might make space this year to to put Jesus first and to hold on to our identity as children of God.
Our Vicar Olly, kicks off the new year sharing five things to focus on this year: God, others, serving, recreation and character.
At our Family Carols this year, our Kids Pastor Julia gave us a short, family friendly message on how we can be making room for Jesus in our lives ✨
At our evening Carol service, Olly our vicar gave us a message on Jesus being the Price of Peace ✨
Advent is a waiting season, but what are you waiting for? Mike takes us through Luke 3:1-6 looking at what John the Baptist can teach us about the incredible rescue plan being made available to everyone who turns to Jesus, even when we are at our lowest, and even when we are feeling completely stuck.
Palliative Care Consultant & St Luke's Hospice Medical Director, Dr Jeff Stephenson, shares on the significance of remembrance to inspire us in our lives.
Student Georgia encourages us to ensure we are growing deep spiritual roots of truth in good soil and not believing lies.
Our curate Reuben this week speaks to us on the story of Jonah and the Whale. By reflecting on the story of Jonah, we enter "God's Mercy Masterclass". The story reveals that "God doesn't need us, he wants us", "The way up is down" and "God's mercy is breathtaking"
Matt Bray, leader of Bay Church, helps us think about what direction our life is growing in and the impact of what living a life of faith and obedience looks like in our lives.
This week our Curate Mike gets us thinking about porridge, ancient cameras and how we need to get back to the core of our faith, the good news of Jesus, keep reading the Bible and keep our heads when everything around is grabbing for fake news.
This week we heard from our Ordinand Robin. In Mark 5:21-43 we discover what happens when two people encounter Jesus. That no matter matter what their (and our) background, gender, problems, performance or popularity we find a God who stops, who notices, who seeks us till he find us, and brings holistic healing; restoring us physically, spiritually and relationally. We explore the 3 unhealthy ways we often respond to rejection and how Jesus offers us a fourth way-to come and encounter him, an encounter and relationship which changes eveything and transforms us to love with the sake love, bringing the same hope and healing to those around us.
Our Vicar Olly shares wisdom from the Bible on how to live generously by giving and living freely and hopefully.
Student Viv Onamusi takes us on her journey of faith helping us to discover and look for God's good purposes through pain.
Student Alfie Payne inspires us to be be people of encouragement, welcoming and serving others and sharing our faith.
Love Your Neighbour Hub Leader, Tina Bayliss, reminds us of the foundations of faith - to love God and love people.
St Mellitus SW Director, Revd Dr James Harding, takes us on a journey of understanding and experiencing God's healing through miracles, medicine and in eternity.
This week our curate Reuben explores the teaching of Jesus when he says that we must become child-like to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Firstly we consider possible desirable child-like qualities. Secondly, we consider what Jesus' own birth teaches us about our need to be "born again."
Ever felt like Elijah? He had some massive highs but also knew what it's like to feel low, tired, hungry, fearful and even suicidal. What should we do when we are at our lowest? Mike encourages us to 'take the cake', 'go to the mountain' and 'get back to it' - if you want to know what that means... take a listen!
On our 5th birthday, Olly shares the story & vision of St Matts - a church family seeking to know & experience God, find friendship and make a positive difference.
Our Vicar Olly shares wisdom on caring for our mental, physical, relational and spiritual well being for a new season.
Our Vicar Olly shared a few reflections from his sabbatical that go to the heart of the life of faith - live a life of love, live a life of humility and go gently on yourself and others.
St Matts Family member and Senior Director of Partnerships at Compassion UK Mark Preston rounds out our Summer Reads series with a talk based on the book, The Beekeeper of Aleppo. Definitely not one to miss!
Robin continued our 'Summer Reads' series looking at the book Love Beyond Reason by John Ortberg. At its core, Love Beyond Reason is a book about love. The greatest love in the universe, indeed, which made the universe- the love of God. Ortberg shows us how we can encounter the God of love and grace and how not only can we find fresh hope, healing and wholeness for ourselves but which also frees us and empowers us to love others too.
This week, Phil who is a member of the St Matts Family gave us a talk as part of our Summer Reads series. Phil based his talk on the book Waking the Dead by John Eldredge.
Mike kicked off our new 'Summer Reads' series looking at the book Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund, looking at Jesus heart for his children — a saviour who deals gently his people, who LOVES to forgive, and who is always advocating for us.
Preachtastic – Portia Crossley | It’s Time to Dream Again
This week we had a Preachtastic Sunday where we invite some members from the wider Church family to speak to us on something God has placed on their heart.
Portia based her talk on Genesis 37:3-11 and is looking at how Dreams Are To Help Us Live In The Present, Dreams Take Time & Dreams Are About So Much More.
This week we had a Preachtastic Sunday where we invite some members from the wider Chruch family to speak to us on something God has placed on their heart.
Brian based his talk on Matthew 11:1-7, 11.
This week our curate Reuben is speaking on Mark 6: 14-29.
The grim story of Herod beheading John the Baptist is recounted. The lessons include: naming the battle between good and evil forces, learning to say No, and choosing your character. In conclusion, the help Jesus offers with each of these is highlighted.
This week our curate Mike Knight is speaking on 2 Corinthians 12:1-10.
In response to his opposition, Paul begins to boast — not in his strength, but in his weakness. As we look at this passage, Mike encourages us to embrace reality over comparison, humility over pride and grace over all — grace, which is sufficient for us in every situation and is especially evident in the midst of our weakness and struggles.
This week Guest Ordinand Zak Venable who is currently on placement with us unpacks the two healing accounts found in Mark 5:21-end.
He reminds us that it's okay to cry out to Jesus in the midst of life's pain, and points us towards the ultimate, complete healing that Jesus will bring when he returns.
Apologies with the issues with the audio this week - it should be back to normal next week!
This week, our Curate Reuben Crossley is speaking on Luke 15:11-24.
Commonly called the Prodigal Son, this parable of Jesus testifies to the breathtaking characteristics of our living "true" Father... the real prodigal. The characteristics of grief, forgiveness and generosity are explored. Finally the question "who are we being called to 'father'?" is highlighted.
This week, our Curate Mike Knight is speaking on John 16:5-15.
The Holy Spirit is guiding us towards Jesus, away from sin and onwards into everything Jesus has for us.
This week we had a Preachtastic Sunday where we invite some members from the wider Chruch family to prepare a slightly condensed talk. This Sunday those speaking where teaching on The Fruit of The Sprit.
Charlie based his talk on Gal 5:22-23 and 1 John 2:6.
This week we had a Preachtastic Sunday where we invite some members from the wider Chruch family to prepare a slightly condensed talk. This Sunday those speaking where teaching on The Fruit of The Sprit.
Chrissy based her talk on Gal 5:22-23, John 15:1 & 4, 1 Pet 1:23 and Psalm 1:1-3.
This week we had a Preachtastic Sunday where we invite some members from the wider Chruch family to prepare a slightly condensed talk. This Sunday those speaking where teaching on The Fruit of The Sprit.
Helen based her talk on Gal 5:22-23.
This week our vicar Olly is speaking on 1 Corinthians 12:1-11.
Following on from last week, Olly is continuing our series on the Holy Spirit. This week he’s speaking on Spiritual gifts and the calling the bible gives us to become a community of people filled with the gifts and presence of God through which we can speak life into the world. Olly gives us 5 points for us to pursue in light of this calling; Stay Open, Stay Expectant, Stay Biblical, Stay Humble and Stay Loving.
This week, our Curate Reuben Crossley is speaking on Acts 2: 1-12.
The Holy Spirit communicates supernatural life to us and this is revealed through fire that purifies and creates a passionate declaring of the mighty works of God. This filling by the Holy Spirit is for every language and nation and results in a beautiful, world-changing unity in diversity, with Christ at the centre.
This week, our ordinand Robin Smith is speaking on Acts 1:1-11.
On Ascension Day, we remember Jesus as he returns to his Father in Heaven but with the promise that he will return to make his home our home, Heaven on Earth. Through the giving of the Holy Spirit we can experience something of Heaven now as we seek to encounter Jesus today as well as being empowered to build God’s home in and through our prayers and action.
This week, our Curate Mike Knight is speaking on John 15:9-17.
In a year that has felt disconnecting Mike reminds us of the connection we have to Jesus — the friendship that he has offered us which we live out in obedience to his call to love each other.