Sermons – St Bart's Anglican Church: Recent Episodes
St Bart's Anglican Church
Listen to the latest sermons and talks from St Bart's Anglican Church located in Toowoomba, Australia. Visit www.stbarts.com.au for the latest news and information.
This is the seventh sermon in our series: Being Human. This sermon is “Sexual”. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Rhys Bezzant. Bible Reading: Matthew 19:1-12.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the seventh sermon in our series: Being Human. This sermon is “Sexual”. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Rhys Bezzant. Bible Reading: Matthew 19:1-12.
https://stbarts.com.au/
Visit our website at the link above to:
📺 WATCH the Sermon
🎧 LISTEN to the audio or read the transcript
📖 DOWNLOAD Small Group Materials for this week
🧒 Access KIDS + YOUTH resources for this week
stbartstoowoomba #toowoomba #lifetogether #openonsundays #onlineonsundays
This is the sixth sermon in our series: Being Human. This sermon is “Relational”. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Rhys Bezzant. Bible Reading: Mark 10:29-31.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the fifth sermon in our series: Being Human. This sermon is “Communal”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Acts 2:42-47.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the fourth sermon in our series: Being Human. This sermon is “Emotional”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Psalm 42.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the third sermon in our series: Being Human. This sermon is “Rational”. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Mike Bird. Bible Reading: Philippians 4:1-9.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the second sermon in our series: Being Human. This sermon is “Physical”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Genesis 2:4-9 & 1 Corinthians 15:12-26 Genesis 2:4-9 & 1 Corinthians 15:12-26 Visit our website at the link above to: 📺 WATCH the Sermon 🎧 LISTEN to the audio or read the transcript 📖 DOWNLOAD Small Group Materials for this week 🧒 Access KIDS + YOUTH resources for this week #stbartstoowoomba #toowoomba #lifetogether #openonsundays #onlineonsundays
This is the first of three talks from this year's FOCUS weekend away, given by the Rev'd Dr Wei-Han Kuan. This session is on Psalm 96.
Find all the resources from FOCUS here: https://stbarts.com.au/focus2023
https://stbarts.com.au/
Visit our website at the link above to:
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This is the third and final sermon in our Winter Warmers series: The Invitation of Jesus. This sermon is “Go for Me”. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: Matthew 28:16-20.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the second sermon in our Winter Warmers series: The Invitation of Jesus. This sermon is “Come to Me". Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: Matthew 11:25-30.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the first sermon in our Winter Warmers series: The Invitation of Jesus. This sermon is “Follow Me”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Matthew 4:18-22.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the eighth and final sermon in our series on 1 John: In Real Life. This sermon is “Confidence & Hope”. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Reading: 1 John 5:1-21.
https://stbarts.com.au/
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This is the seventh sermon in our series on 1 John: In Real Life. This sermon is “Love & Serving”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 John 4:7-21.
https://stbarts.com.au/
Visit our website at the link above to:
📺 WATCH the Sermon
🎧 LISTEN to the audio or read the transcript
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🧒 Access KIDS + YOUTH resources for this week
stbartstoowoomba #toowoomba #lifetogether #openonsundays #onlineonsundays
Acts 11:19-30. This is the fourth sermon in our new series on Acts: The Gospel Goes Out. This sermon is “The Church in Antioch".
Acts 10:24-48. This is the second sermon in our new series on Acts: The Gospel Goes Out. This sermon is “The Gospel and the Spirit”.
Romans 5:12-19. This is the first sermon in our new series on Acts. This sermon is “The Power of the Gospel”.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the sermon from Christmas 2022. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 2:1-18
DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Luke 2:1-18In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONSDownload in PDF format.
CONNECT: If Jesus has opened up for us a ‘way of life’, what is one way that you can bring this invitation for life to others this Christmas?
WARM-UP
- Have you received any ‘Years in Reviews’ this year? What do you like and dislike about them?
- What is your earliest memory of Christmas? Was there a point in your life in which the real meaning of Christmas became significant to you?
Read Luke 2:1-14
- What was the context of Jesus’ birth? What aspects of the story are remarkably ‘ordinary’ or ‘low key’?
- What would it have been like for Mary and Joseph? How is it evident that they trusted in God?
- As you think about Jesus’ life, what is the evidence that points to his humanity? (Try to think of the full spectrum of his life, his physicality, along with his emotions.)
- If the Son became truly human, does this mean he abandoned being God for a time? Why or why not?
- How does emphasising Jesus’ humanity over his divinity—or his divinity over his humanity—ultimately distort our relationship with God? Can you think of some practical examples?
- What does the angel announce to the shepherds? What do these various titles mean?
- Why was this announcement Good News? How was this good news for all people—including us?
- How can we plunge both the hard things and the good things that we experience into Jesus?
- In what way is Christmas a ‘magnifier’ of our year? How can we bring God’s love and good news to those in our lives who have had (or continue to experience) particularly difficult times?
- How do we become part of the Christmas story?
- How has your year with God been in 2022? How would you like it to look similar in 2023? How would you like that relationship to look different in 2023?
- Has there been a point in our Advent series (on the ‘wonder of the incarnation’) that has been significant for you? How might this shape your relationship with God in 2023?
APPLY: What aspect of the Good News that God is WITH US and FOR US shape your approach to 2023?
PRAYERAsk someone what is the most challenging moment of Christmas?
GOING DEEPEROn Your Frontline This Week: Ask someone what is the most challenging moment of Christmas?
Listen, Watch, and Read:
- WATCH: Seminary Now: Talks on Advent: https://bit.ly/3EHauxv
- LISTEN: “Christmas” by Tim Keller:
https://gospelinlife.com/downloads/the-birth-of-jesus-6560/ - LISTEN: “Rooted in History” by William Taylor:https://www.st-helens.org.uk/resources/talk/51352/
- READ: “Don’t expect a Christmas Card, but let me share a story of a vulnerable God”: by Natasha Moore: https://bit.ly/3VlO7UO
- READ: “Was Jesus really born at Christmas” by John Dickson:
https://undeceptions.com/history/was-jesus-really-born-at-christmas/
SERIES Resources:
- Series Overview (PDF & Audiobook)
- Read: “The God who Became Human” by Graham Cole
- Read: “On the Incarnation” by Athanasius
- Read: “What Christians Ought to Believe” by Michael Bird
- Read: “Is Christmas Unbelievable” by Rebecca McLaughlin
- Watch: “The Word Becomes Human” by the Bible Project
- Watch: “The Incarnation (Spoken Word)” by Humble Word
- Listen: A Carols Playlist (curated by the St Bartʼs staff team)
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the fourth sermon in our Advent series on the Incarnation. This sermon is “At the Right Time”. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Reading: Romans 5:12-19
DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Romans 5:12-19Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned –
To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone’s account where there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come.
But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! Nor can the gift of God be compared with the result of one man’s sin: the judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!
Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONSDownload in PDF format.
CONNECT: What is one way that your prayer life this week can reflect both Jesus’ humanity and divinity more richly?
WARM-UP
- What is your most favourite movie of all time and why? What do the characters shape the plot?
- Who do you think are the main characters in the overarching story of the Bible? How do they shape the story of the history of the world?
Read Romans 5:12-14
- How did sin and death enter the world through ‘Adam’? In what way does all of humanity share in these consequences? How are all of us also individually responsible?
- What is sin? How would you explain sin to someone who had never—ever—heard of the concept?
- What are the ways in which we all rebel against God, his rule, and his desires for us?
- What is the consequence of sin? Whilst we might try, how are we incapable of escaping the rule and consequences of sin?
Read Romans 5:15-19
- In what ways is Jesus the ‘new Adam’? What did Jesus do that we (nor anyone else) cannot?
- Try to brainstorm the various ways in which Jesus fulfils where Adam failed.
- If the old Adam opened a ‘way of death’, how does the ‘new Adam’ (Jesus) open a way of life?
- How does the arrival of Jesus shape the entire future course for humanity and creation?
- In what way does Jesus’ obedience (even unto death) have a life-giving (and saving) effect for us?
- How can the way Jesus lived shape how we are to live? Why does it matter?
- In what way is Jesus’ invitation to us an invitation to choose the ‘way of life’? Can we add to the gift that Jesus offers? How can we possibly receive it?
APPLY: If Jesus has opened up for us a ‘way of life’, what is one way that you can bring this invitation for life to others this Christmas?
PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank you that it’s through Jesus that the ‘old way of death’ - wrought through Adam - is overcome. Help us to accept your gift of grace, especially proclaiming it as we celebrate Christmas this year. Amen.
GOING DEEPEROn Your Frontline This Week: Ask someone what is the most challenging moment of Christmas?
Listen, Watch, and Read:
- WATCH: Seminary Now: Talks on Advent
- LISTEN: “This Broken World and Reigning Grace” by William Taylor
- LISTEN: Series: “Living Right with God”
- READ: “The Shape of Justification” by N T Wright
- READ: “I’m a New Human?” by Andy Patton (the Bible Project)
SERIES Resources:
- Series Overview (PDF & Audiobook)
- Read: “The God who Became Human” by Graham Cole
- Read: “On the Incarnation” by Athanasius
- Read: “What Christians Ought to Believe” by Michael Bird
- Read: “Is Christmas Unbelievable” by Rebecca McLaughlin
- Watch: “The Word Becomes Human” by the Bible Project
- Watch: “The Incarnation (Spoken Word)” by Humble Word
- Listen: A Carols Playlist (curated by the St Bartʼs staff team)
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.
Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk
eBook: Watch the eBook
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the third sermon in our Advent series on the Incarnation. This sermon is “Fully Human Fully God”. Preacher: Bishop Cam Venables. Bible Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18
DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Hebrews 2:14-18Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death – that is, the devil – and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONSDownload in PDF format.
CONNECT: How could we grow in our service to others to be more like Jesus over advent?
WARM-UP
- What do you think is the best thing about being human? What do you think is the most challenging?
- Do you think people find it more challenging to acknowledge Jesus as human or divine?
Read Hebrews 2:14-16
- As you think through the New Testament accounts of Jesus’ life, how do we see his humanity?
- As you think through the New Testament accounts of Jesus’ life, how do we see his divinity?
- What does it mean to you to know that Jesus is both fully human and fully divine?
- What does the author mean by, “the children have flesh and blood”? Why was it necessary for Jesus to also share in our humanity?
- How did Jesus ‘help’ us (along with all of ‘Abraham’s descendants’)? How can that fill us with wonder?
- If Jesus is fully human, in what ways can he sympathise with us? How does that bring you comfort?
- How did Jesus suffer when he was tempted? How can Jesus help us when we are tempted? Practically, how can we better: (a) recognise that we need help in those situations; and (b) come to him?
- In your own devotional life, how does (or could) remembering Jesus’ humanity help shape your prayer?
- If Jesus is fully God, in what ways can he know and help us? How does that shape your life as worship?
- Who holds the power of death? How is it a form of slavery? How does Jesus break those bonds?
- Have you ever thought of yourself as a slave? If so, in what way? What does it mean to you to be free?
- Do you ever have a tendency to emphasise one aspect of Jesus’ nature over the other (i.e., you might tend to emphasise his humanity over his divinity, or his divinity over his humanity)? Why so?
- What can it look like to emphasise Jesus’ humanity over his divinity? How might that be a problem?
- What can it look like to emphasise Jesus’ divinity over his humanity? How might that be a problem?
- As you prepare to celebrate Christmas, how can you be reminded that Jesus is both fully human and fully God?
APPLY: What is one way that your prayer life this week can reflect both Jesus’ humanity and divinity more richly?
PRAYERGracious God, thank you that your Son became flesh—fully sharing in our humanity— in order to break the power of sin and death. Thank you that it is in Jesus we find the one who is perfectly able to sympathise with us and help us, especially in times of temptation. Please help us to see who Jesus is clearly and run to him. Amen.
GOING DEEPEROn Your Frontline This Week: Ask someone what is the most challenging moment of Christmas?
Listen, Watch, and Read:
- WATCH: Seminary Now: Talks on Advent
- LISTEN: “The Suffering Son” by William Taylor
- LISTEN: “And was made Man” by John Stott
- LISTEN: Handel’s Messiah
SERIES Resources:
- Series Overview (PDF & Audiobook)
- Read: “The God who Became Human” by Graham Cole
- Read: “On the Incarnation” by Athanasius
- Read: “What Christians Ought to Believe” by Michael Bird
- Read: “Is Christmas Unbelievable” by Rebecca McLaughlin
- Watch: “The Word Becomes Human” by the Bible Project
- Watch: “The Incarnation (Spoken Word)” by Humble Word
- Listen: A Carols Playlist (curated by the St Bartʼs staff team)
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.
Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk
eBook: Watch the eBook
This is the first sermon in our Advent series on the Incarnation. This sermon is “Word Made Flesh”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: John 1:1-14
This is the first sermon in our Advent series on the Incarnation. This sermon is “Word Made Flesh”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: John 1:1-14
This is the seventh and final sermon in our seven week series on Isaiah. This sermon is “Prepare the Way of the Lord”. Preacher: The Rev’d Daniel Rouhead. Bible Readings: Isaiah 40:1-31
This is the fifth sermon in our seven week series on Isaiah. This sermon is “The Spirit of the Lord”. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Readings: Isaiah 11
This is the fifth sermon in our seven week series on Isaiah. This sermon is “The Spirit of the Lord”. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Readings: Isaiah 11
This is the fourth sermon in our seven week series on Isaiah. This sermon is “A Great Light”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Readings: Isaiah 9:1-7
This is the third sermon in our seven week series on Isaiah. This sermon is “Your Guilt is Taken Away”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Readings: Isaiah 6:1-13
This is the second sermon in our seven week series on Isaiah. This sermon is “The Glorious Branch”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Readings: Isaiah 4:2-6
This is the frist sermon in our seven week series on Isaiah. This sermon is “Rebellious Children”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Readings: !saiah 1:1-20
This is the third sermon in our three-week series on Big Issues that Block Belief. This sermon is “Abuse by Church Leaders”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Readings: Matthew 18:1-14
This is the third sermon in our three-week series on Big Issues that Block Belief. This sermon is “Abuse by Church Leaders”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Readings: Matthew 18:1-14
This is the second sermon in our three-week series on Big Issues that Block Belief. This sermon is “Suffering in the World”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Readings: Matthew 9:35-38; Hebrews 2:5-18; 1 Peter 1:3-12
This is the second sermon in our three-week series on Big Issues that Block Belief. This sermon is “Suffering in the World”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Readings: Matthew 9:35-38; Hebrews 2:5-18; 1 Peter 1:3-12
This is the first sermon in our three-week series on Big Issues that Block Belief. This sermon is “Hypocrisy of Christians”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Matthew 23
This is the first sermon in our three-week series on Big Issues that Block Belief. This sermon is “Hypocrisy of Christians”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Matthew 23
This is the ninth sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Prays”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 5:13-20
This is the ninth sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Prays”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 5:13-20
This is the sixth sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Speaks”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: James 3:1-12
This is the sixth sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Speaks”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: James 3:1-12
This is the fifth sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Works”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 2:14-26
This is the fifth sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Works”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 2:14-26
This is the fourth sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Loves”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 2:1-13
This is the third sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: Obeys”. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Reading: James 1:19-27
This is the second sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: is Steadfast”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 1:9-18
This is the first sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: is Tested”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: James 1:1-8
This is the third sermon in our three-part Winter Warmers series on Proverbs. This sermon is “Humility”. Preacher: The Rev’d Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: Proverbs 11
This is the second sermon in our three-part Winter Warmers series on Proverbs. This sermon is “Words”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Proverbs 10:11-32
This is the first sermon in our three-part Winter Warmers series on Proverbs. This sermon is “Wisdom”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:1-20
This is the eighth and final sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “Prayer, Proclamation, and Partnership”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Colossians 4:2-18
This is the seventh sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “At Church, Home, and Work”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Colossians 3:12-4:11
This is the sixth sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “Growing in Christ”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Colossians 3:1-11
This is the fifth sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “The Freedom of Christ”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Colossians 2:16-23
This is the fourth sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “Fullness in Christ”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Colossians 2:6-15
This is a one-off sermon from the book of 1 John. This sermon is “The Real Life and Light”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 1 John 1:1-2:2
This is the third sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “Gospel Ministry”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Colossians 1:24-2:5
This is the second sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “The Greatness of Jesus”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Colossians 1:15-23
This is the first sermon in our series on the Colossians. This sermon is “Following Jesus”. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Colossians 1:1-14
This is the twelfth sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is from Easter Day. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 24:36-49
This is the eleventh sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Greedy Traitor’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 19:1-10
This is the tenth sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Contrary Sisters’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 10:38-42
This is the eighth sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Possessed Man’. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Reading: Luke 8:26-39
This is the eighth sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Possessed Man’. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Reading: Luke 8:26-39
This is the seventh sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Sinful Woman’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 7:36-50
This is the sixth sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Grieving Widow’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 7:11-17
This is the fifth sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Faithful Centurion’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: Luke 7:1-10
This is the fourth sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Injured Man’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 6:1-11
This is the first sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Waiting Prophet’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 2:21-28
This is the first sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Waiting Prophet’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 2:21-28
This is the first sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Waiting Prophet’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 2:21-28
This is the fourth sermon in our series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘COMMISSION: Make Disciples’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Matthew 28:16-20
This is the third sermon in our series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘COMMANDMENT: Love God and Neighbour’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-34
This is the second sermon in our series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘CROSS: Who do you say that I am?’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 8:27-38
This is the first sermon in our new series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘CALL: Repent, Believe, Follow’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 1:14-20
This is our final sermon in 2021. This sermon is ‘New Year: Live for Jesus’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Philippians 1:27-2:11
This is the fourth of our Advent sermon series for 2021. This sermon is ‘Love Lavished on Us’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 John 4:7-21
This is the third of our Advent sermon series for 2021. This sermon is ‘Joy that Completes’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: John 16:16-33
This is the second of our Advent sermon series for 2021. This sermon is ‘Peace with God’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Romans 5:1-11
This is the first of our Advent sermon series for 2021. This sermon is ‘Hope that’s Real’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Peter 1:1-12
This is the seventh of seven sermons in our series on Daniel. This sermon is ‘In the Lion's Den’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Daniel 6
This is the sixth of seven sermons in our series on Daniel. This sermon is ‘Writing on the Wall’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Daniel 5
This is the fifth of seven sermons in our series on Daniel. This sermon is ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Daniel 4
This is the fourth of seven sermons in our series on Daniel. This sermon is ‘Fireproof’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Daniel 3
This is the third of seven sermons in our series on Daniel. This sermon is ‘A Tall Order’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: Daniel 2
This is the second of seven sermons in our series on Daniel. This sermon is ‘Living Faithfully in a Foreign Land’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Daniel 1:8-21
This is the first of seven sermons in our series on Daniel. This sermon is ‘Welcome to Babylon’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Daniel 1:1-7
This is the second of two sermons in our mini-series on What Would Jesus Say. This sermon is ‘To The Unsatisfied?’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: John 4:1-4
This is the first of two sermons in our mini-series on What Would Jesus Say. This sermon is ‘To The Satisfied?’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 12:13-21
This is the eighteenth and final sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Stand Firm’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 16
This is the seventeenth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘The Fruit of the Resurrection‘. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:35-58
This is the sixteenth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘The Basis of Faith."‘ Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-34
This is the fifteenth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Peace not Confusion."‘ Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 14:26-40
This is the fourteenth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Building up the Church…’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 14:1-25
This is the thirteenth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Faith, Hope, and Love’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 13
This is the twelfth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘To Each is Given"’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:1-31
This is the eleventh sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Do This In Remembrance of Me’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
This is the tenth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘All Things from God’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:2-16
This is the ninth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Glorifying God’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1-11:1
This is the third sermon in our mini series in ‘Winter Warmers’. This sermon is ‘The Lord is My Light’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Psalm 27
This is the second sermon in our mini series in ‘Winter Warmers’. This sermon is ‘The Lord is My Shepherd’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Psalm 23
This is the first sermon in our mini series in ‘Winter Warmers’. This sermon is ‘The Lord is My Rock’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Psalm 28
This is the eighth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians) from our 6PM service. This sermon is ‘Building Up’. Preacher: Amy Norman. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
This is the eighth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Building Up’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
This is the seventh sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Marriage & Singleness’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 7
This is the sixth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Flee from Sexual Immorality’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 5-6
This is the third talk from the St Bart’s Toowoomba FOCUS weekend. This talk is ‘God our Hope’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Rhys Bezzant. Bible Reading: Psalm 2.
This is the second talk from the St Bart’s Toowoomba FOCUS weekend. This talk is ‘God our Guide’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Rhys Bezzant. Bible Reading: Psalm 73.
This is the first talk from the St Bart’s Toowoomba FOCUS weekend. This talk is ‘God our Father’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Rhys Bezzant. Bible Reading: Psalm 121.
This is the sermon from St Bart’s Toowoomba on the FOCUS weekend. This sermon is ‘God our Refuge’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Psalm 144
This is the fifth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Fools for Christ’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 4
This is the fourth sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘God's Fellow Workers’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:1-23
This is the third sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Mind of Christ’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:6-16.
This is the second sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘Preach Christ Crucified’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:10-2:5
This is the first sermon in our series on God’s Church (1 Corinthians). This sermon is ‘to the church in Corinth’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
This is the final sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Sending King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Acts 1:1-11
This is the eleventh sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Ascended King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 24:36-53
This is the tenth sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom and also our message for Easter Day. This sermon is ‘Risen King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 24
This is the sermon from Good Friday 2021. Bible Reading: Luke 23. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder.
These are the three reflections from Maundy Thursday 2021. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead.
This is the ninth sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Entering King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 19:28-44
This is the eighth sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Returning King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 19:11-27
This is the seventh sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Forgiving King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 19:1-10
This is the sixth sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Kingdom Sight’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 18:31-43
This is the fifth sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Kingdom Barriers’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: Luke 18:18-30
This is the fourth sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Kingdom Entrance’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 18:9-17
This is the third sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Faith in the King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 18:1-8
This is the second sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Kingdom Here and Now’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 17:20-37
This is the first sermon in our series on God’s Kingdom. This sermon is ‘Your Kingdom Come’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 17:11-21
This is the fourth sermon in our series on God’s Story. This sermon is ‘New Creation’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Revelation 21-22
This is the third sermon in our series on God’s Story. This sermon is ‘Redemption’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 14:12-26
This is the second sermon in our series on God’s Story. This sermon is ‘Fall’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Genesis 3
This is the first sermon in our series on God’s Story. This sermon is ‘Creation’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Genesis 1-2:3
This is the eleventh and final sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘Be Strong’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-23
This is the tenth sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘Submit to One Another’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:21-6:9
This is the ninth sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘Proper vs Improper’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-20
This is a once of sermon for Baptism Sunday. Bible Reading: John 3:1-17. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder
This is the eighth sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘Two Ways to Walk’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:17-32.
This is the sixth sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘Paul's Prayer’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21
This is the sixth sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘Paul's Prayer’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21
This is the fifth sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘The Secret is Out’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Dan Rouhead. Bible Reading: Ephesians 3:1-13
This is the fourth sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘Together in Christ’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Ephesians 2:11-22
This is the third sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘This is Your Life. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
This is the second sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘What You Have in Christ’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23.
This is the first sermon in our series in Ephesians. This sermon is ‘The Divine Plan’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:1-14.
This is the twelfth (and final) sermon in our series on the Gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Saviour’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 15-16.
This is the eleventh sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Teacher’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-44.
This is the tenth sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Judge’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 12:1-17
This is the ninth sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Ransom’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 10:35-45
This is the eighth sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Son’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 9:2-13
This is the seventh sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Messiah’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 8:27-9:1
This is the sixth sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘King’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Dan Rouhead. Bible Reading: Mark 6:6b-29
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the fifth sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Grower’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 4:10-32
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Mark 4:10-32
When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables. 11 He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, “ ‘they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!’” Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? The farmer sows the word. Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.” He said to them, “Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear.” “Consider carefully what you hear,” he continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.” He also said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come.” 'Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade.”
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: How does Jesus being the Strongest One shape the way you approach at least one particular challenge this week?
WARM-UP
- Have you ever had the experience of hearing words but not really taking them in?
- Why is knowing God and knowing about his Kingdom such great news? How can we know these things?
READ Mark 4:1-23
- What are the four different results from the seed being sown? What do these represent? What do the results tell us about the seed itself?
- Why does Jesus use parables in his teaching? What is their purpose?
- How is this parable a ‘parable of the parables’?
- Are we ever at risk of responding to the word in the first three ways? What could cause you to have a hard or distracted heart?
- How can we let our ears hear the Word? Is this different to just concentrating really hard? Why/How?
- Is the kingdom of God meant to be a secret or revealed? How can we be part of the unfolding revelation of the kingdom on our frontlines and in the world today?
READ Mark 4:24-32
- What does it mean to ‘consider carefully what you hear’ as mentioned in V24? Practically, how could you do this in your reading and hearing of scripture?
- What is the encouragement and the warning in V24-25? What is the danger of not hearing and not responding to the word?
- How does the kingdom grow both in the world and in our hearts? What is our role in this growth?
- What does the harvest in V29 mean, and when will that come?
- At first, the kingdom that Jesus brought had small beginnings and the type of kingdom was unexpected. What is the encouragement to both the disciples and us in V30-32?
- How can you on your frontline show or tell of your growth in your relationship with Jesus?
APPLY: How can you make sure you hear the word this week?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank you that you have made yourself known to us through Jesus and through the Word. Help us to consider how we hear, that we may constantly grow in relationship with you and be part of growing your kingdom by making disciples wherever we are. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: How does the work you do point to God? If you are not sure, brainstorm with a friend and ask God to reveal it to you.
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- AUDIO: “Listening to the King” by Richard Chin
- AUDIO: “Careful Listening” by Alistair Begg
- AUDIO: “The Kingdom of God” by Alistair Begg
- AUDIO: “Kingdom Growth” by Dick Lucas:
Read:
- ARTICLES: “Jesus’s Parables Are Not Heartwarming Sermon Illustrations”
Series Resources:
- RESOURCES: The Gospel of Mark (Video Overviews and More)
- RESOURCES: Gospel Coalition Mark Courses
- VIDEO: The Bible Project Mark Overview
- VIDEO/AUDIO: iTunes U, Introduction to the Gospel of Mark
- VIDEO: Training on the Purpose of Mark
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Bible eBook
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the fourth sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Healer’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 3:1-35
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Mark 3:1-35
Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.” Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus. Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. Then Jesus entered a house, and again a crowd gathered, so that he and his disciples were not even able to eat. When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.” And the teachers of the law who came down from Jerusalem said, “He is possessed by Beelzebul! By the prince of demons he is driving out demons.” So Jesus called them over to him and began to speak to them in parables: “How can Satan drive out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come. In fact, no one can enter a strong man’s house without first tying him up. Then he can plunder the strong man’s house. Truly I tell you, people can be forgiven all their sins and every slander they utter, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; they are guilty of an eternal sin.” He said this because they were saying, “He has an impure spirit.” Then Jesus’ mother and brothers arrived. Standing outside, they sent someone in to call him. A crowd was sitting around him, and they told him, “Your mother and brothers are outside looking for you.” “Who are my mother and my brothers?” he asked. Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: Is there anything for which you need to ask God’s forgiveness?
How can you demonstrate God’s forgiveness on your frontlines this week?
WARM-UP
- What are some of the common conclusions that people make about who Jesus is today?
READ Mark 3:1-11
- What have been the claims and actions of Jesus so far in the Gospel of Mark?
- Who was plotting to kill Jesus? Is it strange that these two groups of people would come together?
- Do you find the plot to kill Jesus surprising? What had driven them to pursue such a course of action?
- Who had come to see Jesus after he withdraws? What’s significant about where people come from?
- Why do you think it was possible for people to have so many radically different ideas about who Jesus is? Do you see that diversity of ideas about Jesus on your various frontlines?
READ Mark 3:20-35
- What are the two theories about the identity of Jesus is in this section? Do you think these stack up?
- Why do you think Jesus answers these two ideas with a parable? What is a parable?
- What is the point of verses 24-26 of the parable? What does Jesus mean by “if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand”?
- In verses 27-28, who is the strong man in the parable? How is Jesus pointing to himself as the stronger man who will set the captives free? What have been the clues already that Jesus will defeat evil?
- How is Jesus the Stronger One? How will Jesus ultimately defeat evil? When will evil be destroyed?
- How is Jesus, through the cross, the ultimate healer?
- Have you every been worried about verse 28? What does it actually mean to ‘blaspheme against the Holy Spirit’? Why was Jesus speaking this word of warning to those who were present?
- How do you react when you hear verses 31-35? How serious is it that Jesus’ family thought that he was ‘out of his mind’? How does the inclusion of this information add to the reliability of the Gospels?
- What did Jesus mean by ‘whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother’?
- How is this an incredible promise to all who follow Jesus, especially regarding his unconditional love?
APPLY: How does Jesus being the Strongest One shape the way you approach at least one particular challenge this week?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank you so much that Jesus did not just come simply to teach, but to defeat the powers of sin, evil, and death. We thank you that Jesus is not only the Stronger One but that he is the Strongest One! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: There can be moments of frustration and disappointment on our frontlines. In these moments this week, how will you model godly character?
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- AUDIO: “The Unforgivable Sin” by Christopher Ash
- AUDIO: “The Unforgivable Sin” by Dick Lucas:
Read:
- ARTICLES: Don Carson on the Unforgivable Sin
Series Resources:
- RESOURCES: The Gospel of Mark (Video Overviews and More)
- RESOURCES: Gospel Coalition Mark Courses
- VIDEO: The Bible Project Mark Overview
- VIDEO/AUDIO: iTunes U, Introduction to the Gospel of Mark
- VIDEO: Training on the Purpose of Mark
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Bible eBook
Bonus #3: Kids Song - You Forgive Me
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the third sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘Forgiver’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 2:1-12
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Mark 2:1-12
A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, “Why does this fellow talk like that? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: How does Jesus’ authority shape the way that you live?
WARM-UP
- Is forgiveness a controversial topic in our culture today? Why or why not?
- Why do you think some people see forgiveness as a sign of weakness or as incompatible with justice?
READ Mark 2:1-5
- Why had everyone gathered at the house? What had the paralysed man and friends come to Jesus for? Do you think they would have been bewildered or confronted by what happens?
- Whilst the man had a need for physical healing, how was forgiveness actually an even deeper need?
- What’s the difference between forgiveness and ignoring sin? Why is this an important distinction?
- Read Micah 7:19 and Psalm 103:12. Does this understanding of forgiveness excite you?
- Why are we all in need of forgiveness? Do you find this easy or difficult to accept?
- Why do you think that some people have a great deal of trouble accepting God’s forgiveness?
READ Mark 2:6-12
- How is it evident in this passage that Jesus asserts the authority to forgive sins? Why is this so radical in the context of the passage? (Think about why the priests who were present were so upset with Jesus.)
- What is so significant about Jesus’ identification as the ‘Son of Man’? (see Daniel 7:13-14)
- How do you think the priests felt when Jesus responded to what was going on in their hearts?
- In what way did the priests recognise the significance of Jesus’ claim? What did they fail to see?
- How does Jesus make forgiveness possible? How did the friends demonstrate faith in Jesus?
- In your own words, describe what real forgiveness is and why it can never be separated from Jesus. Why is it so costly (including when we forgive others)?
- What type of freedom does our forgiveness give us?
- How can our living out of forgiveness point to Jesus and the Kingdom of God?
- Do you have an example of being forgiven that you would like to share with the group?
- How can we receive the forgiveness of Jesus?
APPLY: Is there anything for which you need to ask God’s forgiveness? How can you demonstrate God’s forgiveness on your frontlines this week?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank you so much that Jesus does indeed have authority to forgive sins. Please help us to see him clearly, confess our sins, and receive the forgiveness that he offers. Please also help us to forgive others as we have been forgiven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: What is the deepest need for your frontline at the moment? In what specific ways is the Kingdom of God good news for your frontline?
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- AUDIO: “Forgiveness of Sins” series by Dick Lucas
- AUDIO” “Authority to Forgive Sins” by Christopher Ash
- AUDIO: The Bible Project Podcast on “Who can forgive sins?”
Read:
- ARTICLES: Stories of Forgiveness from “The Forgiveness Project”
- BOOK: “Exclusion and Embrace’ by Miroslav Volf:
Series Resources:
- RESOURCES: The Gospel of Mark (Video Overviews and More)
- RESOURCES: Gospel Coalition Mark Courses
- VIDEO: The Bible Project Mark Overview
- VIDEO/AUDIO: iTunes U, Introduction to the Gospel of Mark
- VIDEO: Training on the Purpose of Mark
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Bible eBook
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the second sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘The Kingdom of God’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 1:14-28
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Mark 1:14-28
After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him. When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him. They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek. The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: Who could you invite to Alpha or a Sunday to learn more about who Jesus is?
WARM-UP
- When we think of a kingdom, what type of images come to mind? Where do we see kingdoms in modern society?
- What is the key question at the heart of the Gospel of Mark? Why does it matter?
READ Mark 1:14-20
- What is the ‘good news of God’ that Jesus was proclaiming? Why is it good news?
- What is the ‘kingdom of God’? What does Jesus mean by saying that it has come near? How is the kingdom both now and not yet?
- In light of this proclamation of Jesus, what is the appropriate response of the listener or hearer of Jesus’ words? What does this look like in practise?
- How is this response different to just a ‘head’ belief system?
- What does Jesus say to the fishermen in V17? What does it look like to follow Jesus?
- What is the response of the first disciples? How does this show both Jesus’ authority and also human responsibility in discipleship?
READ Mark 1:21-45
- How was the teaching of Jesus different to the teachings of the religious leaders of the time?
- What did the man with the impure spirit say about Jesus? Is there any truth to this claim?
- What did Jesus say in response and what was the response of the impure spirit? What does this demonstrate about the authority of Jesus and the kingdom of God?
- The following verses describe Jesus healing many different diseases and driving out demons. What do we learn about the kingship of Jesus and the nature of his kingdom?
- If Jesus, who is the Son of God and in the closest relationship with the Father, made time for prayer, what are the implications for us and our prayer life?
- What is the priority for Jesus? What is the role of miracles in this?
- How should being part of the kingdom of God shape our lives today? How can we demonstrate what it is like being part of the kingdom on our frontlines?
APPLY: How does Jesus’ authority shape the way that you live?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank you so much that your kingdom has come in the coming of King Jesus and will come in all its fulness when he returns. Please help us to be faithful in living as part of the kingdom and faithful in showing off the kingdom benefits in our lives. Through our witness, may people on our frontlines come to repent, believe, and be part of the kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Prayer is powerful and it is a great privilege to pray together. Think about finding someone to pray with regularly. One place to start could be our Prayer and Fasting day on Monday August 3.
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- AUDIO: “Kingdom News” by Simon Manchester
- AUDIO: “Jesus: His Message and His Mission” by Alistair Begg
- AUDIO: “A New Authority” by Christopher Ash
- AUDIO: “The Kingdom and the Social Gospel” by Dick Lucas:
- AUDIO: “Who is Jesus” by William Taylor (Mark 1)
Series Resources:
- RESOURCES: The Gospel of Mark (Video Overviews and More)
- RESOURCES: Gospel Coalition Mark Courses
- VIDEO: The Bible Project Mark Overview
- VIDEO/AUDIO: iTunes U, Introduction to the Gospel of Mark
- VIDEO: Training on the Purpose of Mark
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Bible eBook
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the first sermon in our series on the gospel of Mark. This sermon is ‘The Gospel of Mark’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 1:1-15
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Mark 1:1-15
The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way” — “a voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ ” And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. And this was his message: “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him. After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: How can you share one of God’s benefits with someone this week?
WARM-UP
- What are the various ways in which people form an understanding of who Jesus is? What do you think is the best way to form a reliable view of who Jesus claimed to be?
- What is the key question at the heart of the Gospel of Mark? Why does it matter?
READ Mark 1:1-11 (Good News About Jesus)
- What does ‘Gospel’ mean? What is the Gospel primarily about? How is that evident in these verses?
- Can you identify the various titles claimed as pertaining to Jesus? What do each of them mean?
- How is the GOOD NEWS the culmination of a long period of waiting and anticipation?
- What are the ways in which these claims are confirmed in the first half of the chapter?
- What was John’s purpose? How is our purpose as disciples similar to that of John? (It’s also different!)
- If Jesus was without sin, why did he receive a baptism of repentance? How is this baptism different to the one that Christians now receive?
- If Jesus received a baptism he did not need and died a death that he did not deserve, how does he compare to other heroes or leaders in our world?
- What are the ways in which the Gospel can be distorted? How do we guard against this?
READ Mark 1:12-15 (Straight Paths to Jesus)
- Re-Read Verse 1-3. What is meant by making straight paths to prepare the way for the Lord?
- What does the testing of Jesus in the wilderness prove about who he is and the focus of his purpose?
- Can you think of an example of a time in which you had to make a straight path to something? What are the things that get in the way of us making a straight path to Jesus?
- How are we involved in helping to make straight paths to Jesus for people who do not yet know him? Can you think of some practical ways of doing that this week for one person in particular?
- What is ultimately the way in which we respond to who Jesus is and what he has done? What does it mean to repent and believe?
- Has your view of who Jesus is changed over your life time? What shaped your view?
- What do you hope to learn most through this series? How do you hope to grow?
APPLY: Who could you invite to Alpha or a Sunday to learn more about who Jesus is?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank you so much that you do indeed keep your promises and that Jesus is Good News! We thank you for who Jesus is and all that he has done for us. Please help us to see him clearly, make straight paths for him, and help others to make straight paths for him also. May everyone come to repent and believe in the Good News of Jesus. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: How is Jesus shaping you this year more in his likeness?
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- AUDIO: “Mark’s Gospel: An Overview” by Dick Lucas
- AUDIO: “Jesus: God’s King, God’s Son” by Ray Galea”
- AUDIO: “What’s the Gospel?” by Dick Lucas
- AUDIO: “Who is Jesus” by William Taylor (Mark 1)
- AUDIO: “Man in the Wilderness” by Tim Keller
Series Resources:
- RESOURCES: The Gospel of Mark (Video Overviews and More)
- RESOURCES: Gospel Coalition Mark Courses
- VIDEO: The Bible Project Mark Overview
- VIDEO/AUDIO: iTunes U, Introduction to the Gospel of Mark
- VIDEO: Training on the Purpose of Mark
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Bible eBook
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the third sermon in our winter warmers series “Gratitude'‘. This sermon is ‘A Life of Thanksgiving’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4-9
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Philippians 4:4-9
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: How can you share one of God’s benefits with someone this week?
WARM-UP
- What do you think it means to be joyful?
- Where do people who don’t follow Jesus find their joy, or at least try to? What type of joy do they find?
READ Philippians 4:1-5
- What is the source of a christian’s joy? How is it possible to have this joy always in all circumstances?
- What is the difference between ‘having a positive spin on things’ or being optimistic and the type of joy that Paul is talking about?
- In what areas in your life do you find yourself distracted from or lacking this joy?
- How does rejoicing lead to gentleness?
- What would it look like for you to rejoice and be gentle on your frontlines? How could you spur these qualities on? (Note: ‘trying harder’ isn’t an answer!)
READ Philippians 4:5-9
- How is it possible that we can not only rejoice always but also not be anxious?
- What does Paul command us to do instead of being anxious?
- Why is it such great news that we can ‘make our requests known’ to God? Is there anything that we can’t bring to God in prayer?
- When worries or hard times have come in the past, what has been your reaction in the past? How could you encourage yourself or others to turn to God in prayer?
- How is this different to secular calming techniques such as mindfulness or meditation?
- What difference does being thankful make in our prayer life? What is a model or shape of prayer that may be helpful in encouraging this?
- What is the peace of God? Can you recall a time in your life when you have experienced this peace?
- Why do you think modern culture is interested in darker themes in TV shows, movies, or books?
- How are we to be different to this? What are we to be interested in?
- In your week, how could you shape your focus to be on such virtues as listed in V8? In who do we see all these modelled and perfectly lived out?
APPLY: How could you show joy, gentleness, and peace on your frontline this week?
PRAYER
Gracious Lord, thank you for the amazing gift of Jesus and that we can rejoice in him, have your peace, and your presence in our lives. Help us to grow in gratitude for who you are and all that you have done, that we may show the fruits of joy, gentleness, peace, and thanksgiving in all our lives. Stir up our hearts in appreciation for the greatness of Jesus every day of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Am
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Have you ever asked your friends, colleagues or family what they think about Jesus? Whatever their position, they are welcome to join us on Alpha Online: stbarts.com.au/alpha
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- Overcoming Anxiety (Tim Keller)
- The Only Thoughts Worth Thinking (William Taylor)
- Joy (Simon Manchester)
- Love, Joy, Peace (Alistair Begg)
Read:
- “Don’t Be Anxious About Anything! Is That All God’s Got To Say?”
- Devotional on Philippians 4 by Don Carson:
- Gratitude on the Gospel Coalition
Other
- Bishop Daniel on the Joy of the Lord
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Bible eBook
Bonus #3: When I Am Worried
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the second sermon in our winter warmers series “Gratitude'‘. This sermon is ‘Bless the Lord Oh My Soul’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Dan Rouhead. Bible Reading: Psalm 103
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Psalm 103
Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed. He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel: The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’S love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children— with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts. The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all. Praise the LORD, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will. Praise the LORD, all his works everywhere in his dominion. Praise the LORD, my soul.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: What’s one practical way that you can express gratitude to God this week?
WARM-UP : Read Psalm 103 Together
- Have you ever felt taken for granted? Have you ever forgotten to thank someone for a significant act of kindness?
- Why does being thanked feel awkward or sometimes embarrassing?
READ Psalm 103:1-7
- Why does David tell his soul to “Praise the Lord” or “Bless the Lord”? What are the reminders in your life that cause you to do the same?
- How easy is it for us (you) to forget God’s benefits? What helps you to remember God’s benefits?
- What are God’s benefits listed in this psalm? Why are they significant?
- Does one or more of these benefits resonate with you more strongly?
- How does remembering God’s benefits impact on how we live and work on our frontlines?
READ Psalm 103:8-13
- How does David describe the Lord in this section?
- How do we experience the Lord’s compassion and grace?
- How did God fulfil verses 9-10?
- How far does God remove our sins from us? What does this mean for you?
- How does receiving God’s forgiveness shape our lives?
READ Psalm 103:14-20
- How are God and humanity described in this section? Why is the contrast so important?
- Why can we depend on God’s throne, in contrast to our own strength and goodness?
- How does acknowledging Jesus as sitting on the throne of our lives shape what we think and do?
- Read the words of “Praise my soul the King of Heaven”. How does this reflect the meaning of Psalm 103? How does music help us to express our gratitude and praise?
- Who does David call on to join his praise? Can you relate to this?
APPLY: How can you share one of God’s benefits with someone this week?
PRAYER
Almighty God, whose throne is everlasting, we thank you that, in Jesus, we experience your forgiveness, healing and redemption through your compassion and grace. Help us to be humble and grateful so that our lives can be shaped by the blessings we have received.In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Have you ever asked your friends, colleagues or family what they think about Jesus? Whatever their position, they are welcome to join us on Alpha Online: stbarts.com.au/alpha
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- Because He’s Loving (Tim Sheppard)
- Hope from Home: Psalm 103 (Paul Young)
- Psalm 103 (Matt Sparks)
- The Language of Gratitude
Read:
- “First Things First - Who Am I” by Peter Adam
- Devotional on Psalm 103 by Don Carson
- Gratitude on the Gospel Coalition:
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Bible eBook
Bonus #3: Kids Song
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the first sermon in our winter warmers series “Gratitude'‘. This sermon is ‘For God’s Indescribable Gift’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:9-15
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: 2 Corinthians 9:9-15
As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: What’s one way that confidence of eternity transforms your today?
WARM-UP Question
- When has someone done something that has caused you really give thanks?
- Do you find it easy or challenging to be thankful to God?
READ 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
- What is the context of this passage with regard to the Macedonians and the Corinthians? What was Paul trying to encourage the Corinthians to do?
- What were the challenges that the Macedonians were facing? How did this compare to the Corinthians?
- What was the cause of the Macedonian’s great generosity? What did that look like in practice?
- How did Jesus enter into our poverty? How was this for our sake?
- Through Christ becoming poor, in what ways did we become rich?
READ 2 Corinthians 9:12-15
- What should be the ultimate cause of our gratitude? In what way is God’s gift to us indescribable?
- What are you most thankful for about who God is and what he has done? How is gratitude really only made complete when it is directed to the giver?
- Have you ever known someone who, because of their great clarity of all that Jesus had done for them, continually seemed to exude gratitude? What were they like to be around?
- What are the regular rhythms of your life that help you to grow in gratitude to God? What are the things which inhibit gratitude? What would help you (to stop or start) in order to grow in gratitude to God?
- Why is it important that gratitude is actually expressed as action? What do you think were the ‘many expressions’ of thanksgiving that Paul points to here?
- What are some of the ways that you think you could demonstrate more gratitude to God in your life?
- What does Paul indicate are some of the main effects of the Macedonian’s expressing their gratitude to God through generosity? How can expressed gratitude be a form of evangelism?
- What is a frontline in which you could express more gratitude this coming week? Can you pick one particular way that you could demonstrate gratitude there in order to point people back to God?
- How is gratitude one of the key signs that grace has taken hold of your life?
APPLY: What’s one practical way that you can express gratitude to God this week?
PRAYER
Gracious God, how we thank you for your indescribable gift of grace in Jesus. Please help us to grow in our understanding of grace, that our lives may be overflowing with many expressions of thanks to you! Please help us to be a people of gratitude, that many may see the caused for our action and accordingly direct their praise to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Have you ever asked your friends, colleagues or family what they think about Jesus? Whatever their position, they are welcome to join us on Alpha Online: stbarts.com.au/alpha
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- Christian Giving (William Taylor)
- Generous Grace (Simon Manchester)
- The Language of Gratitude
- Radical Generosity
Read:
- Gratitude on the Gospel Coalition
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the ninth sermon in our series “Promises You Can Count On'‘. This sermon is ‘I Will Raise’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: John 6:25-40
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: John 6:25-40
When they found him on the other side of the lake, they asked him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?” Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?” Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” So they asked him, “What sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” “Sir,” they said, “always give us this bread.” Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe. All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.”
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: How could you tell someone about your assurance of a place with Jesus for eternity?
WARM-UP Question
- What do you think are the common ways that people think about eternal life?
- How does this compare with Jesus’ promise to raise us up?
READ John 6:25-27
- What miracle had Jesus just performed prior to this encounter? Why would have this been such a significant sign for those who lived from day-to-day?
- As people track Jesus down, what does Jesus identify as their motivation for finding him? What had they missed about Jesus that all of the signs were pointing to?
- Do you think it’s possible to ever come to Jesus with a materialistic agenda? What are some of the mixed motives that you can come to Jesus with from time-to-time?
- Whilst bread was an important staple of people’s diet to survive, what is it that Jesus really longs for the people to hunger for? What are the types of things that you can sometimes seek satisfaction instead of which ultimately don’t last?
- Scanning through verses 25-40, can you identify all of the ways that Jesus points to his gift being the gift that ultimately lasts and fully satisfies?
- What is the food that ‘endures for eternal life’ that Jesus speaks about? How is it only in Jesus that we can be truly satisfied, both now and for eternity?
READ John 6:28-40
- What do the people think they need to do in order to receive the bread of which Jesus speaks? As people approach God today, do you think we can ever fall into this trap as well?
- What was the reference to the manna all about? What is different about the bread Jesus is now speaking of? How is Jesus both the giver and the gift?
- Throughout these verses, can you spot all of the ways in which Jesus claims that this true bread is only found in him? What is it about who Jesus is and what he has done that makes this possible?
- If the true bread is only found in him, what do you need to do to receive it? Who can receive it?
- What does it mean to you to know that Jesus will not drive away or lose any of those given to him?
- What is Jesus’ ultimate promise for those who are sent to him and come to him? What type of resurrection is Jesus speaking about (consider the precedent of his own resurrection).
- Throughout this series, has there been one particular promise that has stood out to you at this time?
APPLY: What’s one way that confidence of eternity transforms your today?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank you so much that we can be confident about forever with you because you have sent Jesus into the world. Please help us not to chase things that do not last and fail to satisfy, but that we may instead long and hunger for Jesus more and more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: How is the person you are praying for to become a disciple of Jesus going? What is their biggest belief blocker at the moment?
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen and Watch:
- AUDIO: The Bread of Heaven (Tim Keller)
- AUDIO: Jesus is Bread of Heaven (Series)
- AUDIO: Ravi Zacharias tells his Life Story
- AUDIO: Taste the Difference (Series)
Read:
- BOOK: “Where is God in a Coronavirus World?” By John Lennox
- BOOK: “God and the Pandemic” by NT Wright
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus 2: Watch an Interview with Aileen Hayes
Bonus 3: Watch Baking With Michael
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the eighth sermon in our series “Promises You Can Count On'‘. This sermon is ‘I Will Prepare’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: John 14:1-11
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: John 14:1-11
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.” Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: What are the opportunities this week to choose God as your ultimate audience?
WARM-UP Question
- In popular culture, what are some images of heaven that are shown in TV shows or movies?
- What are some exclusive claims that people make today?
READ John 14:1-4
- What are some of the things which could have caused the hearts of the disciples to be troubled? What are some things that cause your heart to be troubled?
- In the face of these troubles, what does Jesus command his disciples to do?
- Does this commandment apply to us? Why or why not? What does this look like in practice?
- What is the Father’s house that Jesus talks about here? What are the rooms?
- Even though we aren’t given the specific details about what these look like, what can we be sure of? How can this be a great source of assurance and comfort for us?
- How does Jesus prepare a place for us? What preparations had to be made for us to be able to come into this place?
- What is the amazing hope and assurance that is found in being in the presence of God for eternity?
READ John 14:5-11
- How is Jesus’ answer to Thomas’ question the most inclusive and also exclusive claim?
- How is Jesus they way to the Father? How is Jesus the truth? How is Jesus the life?
- What does this statement say about other religions or claims about coming to God?
- In these times, how does the world react to these types of claims of absolute truth? What is the difference between worldly wisdom and Godly wisdom? What should we follow?
- Why should this statement also drive us into mission and telling others about Jesus?
- How do people who don’t yet follow Jesus try to find God? If people want to know what God is like, who can they look to? What is the role of the Bible in this?
- For us and for our salvation, what is the most important question that we can ask ourselves about the place of Jesus in our lives?
APPLY: How could you tell someone about your assurance of a place with Jesus for eternity?
PRAYER
Lord God, how we thank you that there is a dwelling place for us and that you will come back and take us to be with you. Help us to not forget this nor take it for granted. In the face of suffering and death, keep us in this knowledge of your grace shown to us in Christ Jesus. Please calm our hearts when troubled, make our faith firm when fumbling, and help us to keep our eyes on Jesus. In his name we pray, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Who could you invite to do Alpha Online? Commit to praying for an opportunity to invite someone.
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen:
- AUDIO: “Which way, Lord” by William Taylor
- AUDIO: “I Am The Way, the Truth, and The Life” by Ray Galea
- AUDIO: “Jesus, the Only Way” by Alistair Begg
- AUDIO: “Is Christianity Intolerant?” by Simon Manchester
- AUDIO: “Truths to Unsettle and to Reassure” by Dick Lucas
Read:
- ARTICLE: “Mansions in the Sky? Rethinking John 14:2” by Mike Raiter
- ARTICLE: “My Mortality” by Gary Millar
- ARTICLE: “Are there Many Ways to God?” by David Graieg
- ARTICLE: “What Happens When I Die?” by Marcus Nodder
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk.
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the seventh sermon in our series “Promises You Can Count On'‘. This sermon is ‘I Will Reward’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Matthew 6:1-8
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Matthew 6:1-9
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: In what ways can you see God’s strength at work through your weaknesses?.
WARM-UP Question
- Can you think of a time in which you received a long anticipated reward? Did this fully satisfy?
- What are the types of rewards that our culture loves to love?
READ Matthew 6:1-8
CHOOSE YOUR AUDIENCE
- What are the three types of religious practice that are mentioned in this passage (and in verses 16-18)?
- Is there anything incorrect about these practices in and of themselves? What did Jesus find so offensive about the way in which they were being practiced?
- Who were the hypocrites (most likely) that Jesus spoke of? What did Jesus mean by this?
- When serving God, have you ever been tempted to do something to earn praise or look good in front of others? What do you think is behind the temptation to impress others or earn praise from them?
- Is there any area in your life in which you are more likely to want to seek the praise of others?
- If the most public places in the ancient world were synagogues and street corners, where are the public places that people are most likely to try and impress people today?
- When we seek to serve God, what helps to choose God as your audience (and not others)?
GUARD YOUR REWARD
- What does Jesus say about the rewards that hypocrites are to receive? What is meant by the term ‘reward in full’? Why is nothing more due to them?
- Why is the praise we earn from others ultimately so fleeting?
- Why does our Father reward giving (or praying or fasting) in secret? How is this helpful for us?
- In what ways are the rewards of God both now and not yet? What are some of the ways in which you have recognised the blessings of God as you seek to serve him faithfully (and humbly!)?
- If the Father rewards us, does that mean that we earn our salvation? Why or why not?
- Read 1 Corinthians 2:9: What is the great promise of reward that we look forward to? How are many of the other worldly ‘rewards’ that we experience just a consolation for a deeper hunger?
- What do you think that you’re ultimately driven by? How is God himself the ultimate reward?
- How should the certainty of God’s eternal promise help shape our choices and lives today?
APPLY: What are the opportunities this week to choose God as your ultimate audience?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, please show me the areas of my life in which I seek the praise of others, that I would seek your audience alone. Please also help me to rejoice in the certainty of your promise and the freedom that brings to serve you freely, even at great cost. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Have you considered that God has sent you to your frontlines with a purpose? How does that make a difference to your daily life?
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen:
- AUDIO: “Truly Heavenly” by William Taylor
- AUDIO: Prayer the Poor” by Tim Keller [PAID]
- AUDIO: “Investment Strategies” by Paul Tripp:
Read:
- ARTICLE: “What are the ‘Rewards” in Heaven and Should they motivate us?
- ARTICLE: “Donkeys, Carrots, Sticks - And the Gospel”
- ARTICLE (ACADEMIC): “Degrees of Reward in the Kingdom fo heaven” by Blomberg
- BOOK: “Where is God in a Coronavirus World?” By John Lennox
- BOOK: “God and the Pandemic” by NT Wright
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus #2: Watch the Kids Song
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the sixth sermon in our series “Promises You Can Count On'‘. This sermon is ‘I Will Send’. Preacher: The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead. Bible Reading: John 16:1-15
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: John 16:1-15
All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. I have told you this, so that when their time comes you will remember that I warned you about them. I did not tell you this from the beginning because I was with you, but now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: about sin, because people do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned. “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.”
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: In what ways can you see God’s strength at work through your weaknesses?.
WARM-UP Question
- How have you felt during this time of physical separation and partial closure of many aspects of community? Has there been any point in which you felt alone?
- Can you think of another time in which you felt alone? When was it? Did anything bring you comfort?
READ John 16:1-5a
- What did Jesus tell the disciples would happen to them?
- Why did Jesus tell the disciples what would happen to them?
- How is the promise to send the Holy Spirit connected what Jesus says here? (see John 15:26-27)
- How can followers of Jesus be tempted to act when they experience persecution and hardship? How do you want to react when you undergo difficult times?
- Have you been ‘persecuted’ for you faith? Share your experiences with the group.
- What has helped you - particularly at this time - to keep connected to Jesus? What do you think would be helpful to pursue more?
READ John 16:5b-15
- Why must Jesus return to the Father, and how will this benefit the disciples (and us!)?
- What is the primary ministry of the Spirit to the world (non-believers)? Is this still relevant today?
- In what three areas does Spirit convict the world? How is the world wrong about these three areas?
- How do believers participate in this ministry of conviction? Think about the example of Acts 2.
- Even though this is not the focus of this passage, how does the Spirit continue to convict disciples of Jesus today?
- Why can’t the disciples bear to hear all that Jesus had to tell them? Why was it so troubling to them?
- What is the ministry of the Spirit to believers today?
- What will the Spirit teach and to whom will the Spirit point? Why is this significant?
- What does it mean for Jesus to be “the way, the truth and the life” (John 14:6)? How does the Spirit help us to comprehend this?
- How is the Spirit linked with the sending out of the disciples to the ends of the earth?
- How does the Spirit help us to reach the one person we have been praying for?
APPLY: How does the Holy Spirit shape your prayers and actions this week?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank you that you sent the Spirit to help us stay faithful to Jesus even in times of hardship, to convict us of sin and our need for salvation in Jesus, and to teach us all truth and continually point us to our Lord. Help us to grow in our understanding of your truth, and help us to demonstrate this truth in our lives that we might share that truth in word and deed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Join us this Wednesday from 7am - 8am for our Work + Faith Monthly Meeting, where we talk and pray about following Jesus at work.
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen:
- AUDIO: “Holy Spirit” by Dick Lucas
- AUDIO: “The Holy Spirit and Salvation” by Paul Dale
- AUDIO: “John 16” by Christopher Ash
- AUDIO: “Witness to Outsiders” by Simon Manchester
Read:
- ARTICLE: “Joy has an address” by Matt Smethurst
- BOOK: “God and the Pandemic” by NT Wright (available soon)
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the fifth sermon in our series “Promises You Can Count On'‘. This sermon is ‘I Will Strengthen’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to be gained, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord. I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know—God knows. And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows— was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell. I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses. Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: This week, try to stop and go to Jesus to receive the rest he offers. Try also to share this good news of rest with someone else.
WARM-UP Question
- What is your reaction when you hear someone boasting in themselves or about their achievements? Why do you think you react that way?
- How do you react when people show weakness or vulnerabilities?
READ 2 Corinthians 11:30-12:5
- What is the context of this passage? What was Paul trying to achieve by boasting in these ways?
- How is Paul’s boast different to what we would usually boast in? Why would have this been so surprising for the Corinthians?
- In boasting about these things, what does this tell us about the source of Paul’s strength?
- In verses 2 to 3, why does Paul refer to himself in the third person? Paul could have used this vision to show how superior he is, why doesn’t he?
- In what ways can we try and boast in and draw strength from ourselves? Why is this ultimately futile? What would this show about the condition of our heart?
READ 2 Corinthians 12:6-10
- Why shouldn’t we find our strength the praise of others? What’s the difference between working for the praise of others and receiving encouragement from others?
- How could we encourage one another in such a way that keeps our eyes on Jesus and not ourselves?
- Why was Paul given a thorn in his flesh? While we aren’t told what the thorn actually was, what was the nature of this affliction?
- How did Paul react to this? What was the response of the Lord to his request?
- When we undergo pain and suffering, what should be our response? Does God ever promise to take these things away if we ask?
- When these things happen, is it bad to seek medical attention or outside council? Why not?
- What is the nature of God’s grace as mentioned in V9? How is it sufficient for us? How do we receive it?
- What’s the difference between boasting in weaknesses and actively searching them out? Where do we find our ultimate source of strength? How do we receive it?
APPLY: In what ways can you see God’s strength at work through your weaknesses?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank you that you are the ultimate source of strength. Help us in our weaknesses to look to you for strength and to recognise the sufficiency of your grace in every aspect of our lives. Keep us from our pride, from seeking strength from the approval of others, and guide us in your ways, that we may be strengthened to serve you in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: Is your home or neighbourhood a more prominent frontline at the moment? How can you be intentional in this space?
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen:
- AUDIO: “2 Corinthians 12:9” by Dick Lucas
- AUDIO: “The Power of Weakness” by Alistair Begg
- VIDEO: “God's Wisdom & Power” by Mike Raiter
- AUDIO: “Sufficient Grace” by Gavin Perkins
Read:
- ARTICLE: “Trading Your Weakness for God’s Strength” by Clarissa Moll
- ARTICLE: “It’s Good to Cry Sometimes” by Sarah Phillips
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Bonus: Watch interview with Pete Rathie
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the fourth sermon in our series “Promises You Can Count On'‘. This sermon is ‘I Will Give Rest’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Matthew 11:25-30
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: Matthew 11:25-30
At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: Is there an area in your life where you are currently not satisfied? How can knowing Jesus, receiving him, and worshiping him help in this?
WARM-UP Question
- What in our culture do you think is helpful when it comes to rest? What is less helpful culturally?
- What makes you feel most at rest? Why do you think that this is the case?
READ Matthew 11:25-28
- What does Jesus mean by saying that these things have been ‘hidden’ from the wise and the learned?
- Who were some of the ‘wise and learned’ of Jesus’ time who thought they had everything figured out when it came to God? Did that help them to see Jesus more clearly? Why or why not?
- Why is it such great news that knowing God is not based on how ‘clever’ we are?
- How can knowledge both lead us to and away from God? Can you think of some famous examples?
- How extraordinary is the extent of the intimacy that Jesus claims with the Father? How close are they?
- What causes you particularly to feel weary and burdened? Anything particular of late?
- Who does Jesus offer rest to? How does it make you feel to know that Jesus has invited you to receive his rest? How does knowing who Jesus is give us confidence that he can fulfil this staggering promise?
- How have you known Jesus’ rest in your life to be true? Have there been particular times?
- What aspects of your life right now would you love to be transformed by the rest that Jesus offers?
- Have you gone to Jesus recently to receive his rest? If so, what was that like? If not, how might you go to him this coming week?
READ Matthew 11:29-30
- Is the rest that Jesus offers just a form of inactivity? What is the nature of the rest that Jesus offers?
- What does Jesus mean by ‘taking up his yoke’? (Think about the original context both agriculturally and also with regard to the Law) How is being yoked to Jesus actually a form of freedom?
- What have you been learning from Jesus over the last two months?
- In a weary and worried world, how is Jesus’ promise such great news?
Who might you share this good news with this week?
APPLY: Is there an area in your life where you are currently not satisfied? How can knowing Jesus, receiving him, and worshiping him help in this?
PRAYER
Loving Lord, thank you so much for your promise that we can find rest in you. Please help us to come to you, wearied and burdened as we might be, in order that we might receive the true rest that only you can offer. Please refresh us and send us to share that good news with everyone on our frontlines this week. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: How has your frontline changed? What new Gospel opportunities are there?
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen:
- AUDIO: “Lord of Heaven and Earth” by Leon Morris
- AUDIO: “The Scandalous Invitation of Jesus” by William Taylor
- AUDIO: “The School of Christ” by Dick Lucas
- AUDIO: Series from 2019 at St Bart’s, “Winter Warmers: Rest”
- AUDIO: “Lord of the Sabbath” by D A Carson
Read:
- ARTICLE: “The Power of Deep Rest” by Tim Keller:
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: How well do you know your leaders?
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.
Sermon & Small Group ResourcesThis is the third sermon in our series “Promises You Can Count On'‘. This sermon is ‘I Will Satisfy’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: John 4:4-21
Download the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Next Steps this WeekBIBLE READING: John 4:4-21
Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans. ) Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?” Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.
SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS
Download in PDF format.
CONNECT: Is there an area of your life in which you doubt God’s provision? What would be helpful in helping you to trust God more in this area?
WARM-UP Question
- Can you remember a time when you’ve felt completely and utterly satisfied?
- Where - or in what - do people try and find their satisfaction in? Will these ever ultimately satisfy? What is the main problem with these things?
READ John 4:4-10
- Do you find it remarkable the fact that Jesus was tired? How can this be comforting or reassuring?
- What is the significance of the fact that all this occurred about noon? What does this say about the social status or social confidence of the Samaritan woman?
- Who are the Samaritans and what was their relationship with the Jews like in the first century?
- Describe what the ‘gift of God’ is as mentioned in verse 10. What does this gift satisfy?
- How does knowing who Jesus is give us satisfaction? Are we ever at risk of taking Jesus for granted? What patterns in your life can you recognise that could cause you to take your eyes off Jesus?
READ John 4:11-26
- What does the woman’s response indicate about her understanding of Jesus’ words? In what ways is Jesus greater than Jacob?
- What is the problem with earthly water? How is the water that Jesus gives us different?
- What do we have to do to receive this water? How long does this water last?
- How does this water give us satisfaction? What does this water ultimately give us?
- Describe what it means to worship in ‘Spirit and in truth’? Do we have to be in the physical building at church to worship Jesus?
- In what ways does knowing who Jesus is help us worship him? What does the act of worshipping cause us to do?
- How could you tell a friend or family member about the satisfaction you find in Jesus?
APPLY: Is there an area in your life where you are currently not satisfied? How can knowing Jesus, receiving him, and worshiping him help in this?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank you for the hope and the promise of living water, that all we need to do is ask and we will receive new life. Thank you for the satisfaction that is found in being in relationship with you. We are sorry for the times when we take this for granted and try and find satisfaction in worldly things. Help us to continue to keep our eyes fixed on you and trusting in the sure promise that you will satisfy not just now here on earth but for all eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOING DEEPER
On Your Frontline This Week: How do you see God using this season? Share the opportunities and challenges with a friend, and pray together.
For Families: Download some of the family resources to use at home
Listen:
- AUDIO: “The Living Water” by Jon Rumble
- AUDIO: “The Bad Samaritan” by Tad Inboden
- AUDIO: “Pleasing Worship” by William Taylor
- AUDIO: “Come See a Man” by Alistair Begg
Read:
- READ: “Only Christ Can Truly Satisfy”
- READ: “Coping with coronavirus anxiety: Four lessons from Søren Kierkegaard” by Brian Rosner (via the ABC)
WITH CHILDREN
Grow as Families Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home.
St Bart’s Kids This Sunday
Families: Read, Learn, Chat, and Pray.
Families: Activity Pack.
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions.
Bonus: Watch the Kids Talk
Let us know how you are engaging with all the resources by taking a photo, uploading it, and tagging #stbartstoowoomba.