31 January - We are Free from Sin

Share to

28 January, 2021Dig In - Foundations of Faith

Today we celebrate kickstart and reflect upon new beginnings. 

READ 

Acts 9:1-20 2 Cor 5:17 


The Conversion of Saul 


Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any who belonged to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he was going along and approaching Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” He asked, “Who are you, Lord?” The reply came, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But get up and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were traveling with him stood speechless because they heard the voice but saw no one. Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. For three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank. 


Now there was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” He answered, “Here I am, Lord.” The Lord said to him, “Get up and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul. At this moment he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints in Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who invoke your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is an instrument whom I have chosen to bring my name before Gentiles and kings and before the people of Israel; I myself will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias went and entered the house. He laid his hands on Saul and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on your way here, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and his sight was restored. Then he got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength. 


For several days he was with the disciples in Damascus, and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” 


2 Cor 5:17 


So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 


DISCUSS 


1. How has your week been? How have you seen God at work in your life? 


2. Read the passages again.  


3. What does this passage tell us about God? 


4. Is your faith journey more like Paul or Ananias? 


4. How does this passage challenge me in my relationship with God? 


5. Is there anything or anyone I am being called to share with this week? Share that with your group and pray for that situation. 


6. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me? 


7. What am I going to do about it. 


8. be prepared to share back next week. 


PRAY 

Let us pray 

Loving God thank you that you have called us into a loving relationship with you. We thank you for our brothers and sisters who have similarly come to faith and we give thanks for the various ways that people have come to know you. Give me the courage to respond and step out when you call. Lord thank you that I am part of a church that wants to encourage people to step out and share their faith with others. Whether we are like Paul or Ananias may we be re-assured that our journey and relationship with you is the key and help us to deepen our faith and continue to grow in that relationship. In Jesus name I pray 



Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A



Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

More from 'Dig In - Foundations of Faith'

27 March 2022

27 March, 2022 Nathan Robertson

READ

Bible Reading (NRSV): Acts 12:6-19

6 The very night before Herod was going to bring him out, Peter, bound with two chains, was sleeping between two soldiers, while guards in front of the door were keeping watch over the prison. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He tapped Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his wrists. 8 The angel said to him, “Fasten your belt and put on your sandals.” He did so. Then he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” 9 Peter went out and followed him; he did not realize that what was happening with the angel’s help was real; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 After they had passed the first and the second guard, they came before the iron gate leading into the city. It opened for them of its own accord, and they went outside and walked along a lane, when suddenly the angel left him. 11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hands of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.”

12 As soon as he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many had gathered and were praying. 13 When he knocked at the outer gate, a maid named Rhoda came to answer. 14 On recognizing Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the gate, she ran in and announced that Peter was standing at the gate. 15 They said to her, “You are out of your mind!” But she insisted that it was so. They said, “It is his angel.” 16 Meanwhile Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the gate, they saw him and were amazed. 17 He motioned to them with his hand to be silent, and described for them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he added, “Tell this to James and to the believers.” Then he left and went to another place.

18 When morning came, there was no small commotion among the soldiers over what had become of Peter. 19 When Herod had searched for him and could not find him, he examined the guards and ordered them to be put to death. Then he went down from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there.

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been?

2. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

3. Read the passages again.

4. Summarize what happened in your own words.

5. What does the passage tell us about God?

6. What does the passage tell us about followers of Jesus?

7. What does the passage tell us about prayer?

8. What is challenging in this passage?

9. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

10.What am I going to do about it?

11. Who am I going to share it with?

12. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Lord Jesus, teach me how to trust and pray in all circumstances. Help me to be more consistent in prayer and to trust you more and more. Lord teach me to pray. Amen

View

20 March 2022

20 March, 2022 Rev Brian Hoole

20 March 2022 Worship material

READ

Bible Reading (NRSV): Acts11:19- 26; 2 Cor 9:8-15

19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. 20 But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. 21 The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. 22 News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called “Christians.”

2 Cor 9:6-15

6 The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. 9 As it is written,

“He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.”

10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; 12 for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God. 13 Through the testing of this ministry you glorify God by your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ and by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you because of the surpassing grace of God that he has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been?

2. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

3. Read the passages again.

4. What does the Acts passage tell us about Jesus or God?

5. What does Acts passage tell us about people?

6. How do you define generosity?

7. How do you define stewardship?

8. What do you think it means by God loves a cheerful giver?

9. What is challenging in this passage?

10.Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

11.What am I going to do about it?

12. Who am I going to share it with?

13. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Lord Jesus, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve as you deserve, To give and not to count the cost, To fight and not to heed the wounds, To labor and not to seek to rest, To give of my self and not ask for a reward, Except the reward of knowing that I am doing your will.

View

13 March 2022

12 March, 2022 Rev Brian Hoole

13 March 2022 Worship material

READ

Bible Reading Acts 10:9-15, 28-29, 34-36

9 About noon the next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10 He became hungry and wanted something to eat; and while it was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11 He saw the heaven opened and something like a large sheet coming down, being lowered to the ground by its four corners. 12 In it were all kinds of four-footed creatures and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 Then he heard a voice saying, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is profane or unclean.” 15 The voice said to him again, a second time, “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” 16 This happened three times, and the thing was suddenly taken up to heaven.

28 and he said to them, “You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without objection. Now may I ask why you sent for me?”

34 Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all.

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been?

2. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

3. Read the passages again.

4. What do you think God was trying to say in the vision?

5. What difference did this vision and event make to the early church?

6. What does this passage tell us about Jesus or God?

7. What does this passage tell us about people?

8. What is challenging in this passage?

9. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

10.What am I going to do about it?

11. Who am I going to share it with?

12. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your people Israel through whom the Jesus was born and thank You that there is no partiality with God and that all people may be saved by grace through faith in Christ. Thank You for my own salvation and I pray that many more Jews and Gentiles, men and women, slaves and free, old and young, black and white people from every race and nation may come to faith in Christ, for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting - in Jesus name. AMEN.

View

13 February 2022

11 February, 2022 Rev Brian Hoole

READ

Reading Acts 2:1-6, 22-24, 37-41

1 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

5 Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. 6 And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each.

22 “You that are Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him among you, as you yourselves know— 23 this man, handed over to you according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of those outside the law. 24 But God raised him up, having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power.

37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” 38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” 40 And he testified with many other arguments and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 So those who welcomed his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand persons were added.

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been?

2. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

3. Read the passages again.

4. What was the core of Peter’s message?

5. Where were people meant to do?

6. What does this passage tell us about Jesus or God?

7. What does this passage tell us about people?

8. What is challenging in this passage?

9. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

10.What am I going to do about it?

11. Who am I going to share it with?

12. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Dear God, we ask that you would fan into flame the global body of Christ so that its heartbeat for the Great Commission beats strongly. Transform us as we read your Word and pray for the good news of Jesus to be amplified as a song of praise in our lives. Use us in our homes, workplaces, ministries, nations, and world for the sake of loving God with all our hearts, minds, and souls, loving our neighbours with all the grace and mercy you give.

Amen

View

11 April - We are God's Children

11 April, 2021 Rev Peter Armstrong

READ: JOHN 20:19-31

19 When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."

20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." 22 When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."

24 But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe." 26 A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."

27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." 28 Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" 29 Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."

30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. 31 But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been?

2. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

3. Read the passage again.

4. What does this passage tell us about Jesus?

5. What does this passage tell us about the disciples?

6. What does it tell us about our relationship with Him?

7. What is challenging in this passage?

8. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

9. What am I going to do about it?

10. Who am I going to share it with?

11. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Let us pray

We gather here as a fellowship of people who acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord. One of the major marks of this fellowship is the sense of joy we experience as we gather to worship God, to give thanks for Jesus Christ and to witness to the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Yet, we admit that there are times when we feel afraid, abandoned, and lonely; when faith leads to doubt and questions rather than a sense of joy or peace of mind. Lord Jesus Christ, unlike those first disciples, we cannot touch you or see you, and so it is all too easy to become downcast and given to despair.

Forgive us when, like the disciples, we find the truth of Easter hard to believe.

Come to us, risen Christ, come through the closed doors of our hearts and minds and take away our fears and doubts; Come to us, risen Christ, breathe on us and fill us with the joy and peace of your presence.

Bless us all as people who have not seen you, but who believe that you are truly the risen Christ, Son of God. Amen

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A/

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our YouTube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

21 March - We are Growing In God

21 March, 2021

The washing of the disciples' feet as recorded in John’s gospel is a well-known and key reading to help us understand Jesus’ approach to leadership and discipleship

READ: John 15:1-17

Chapter 15

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.

DISCUSS

- How has your week been?

- How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

- Read the passage again.

- What does this passage tell us about Jesus?

- What does this passage tell us about the Father?

- What does it tell us about our relationship with Him?

- How am I fruitful?

- What is challenging in this passage?

- Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

- What am I going to do about it?

- Who am I going to share it with?

- Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Let us pray.

Lord of the one true Vine.

In you we live and move and have our being

We are your branches, spindly and slight and fragile.

Please ask your Father to prune us (though gently).

We want to bear more of your fruit.

Amen.

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A/

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

14 March- We are God's Servants

14 March, 2021 Nathan Robertson

The washing of the disciples feet as recorded in John’s gospel is a well-known and key reading to help us understand Jesus’ approach to leadership and discipleship

READ John 13:1-17

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon Iscariot to betray him. And during supper Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus answered, “You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no share with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you.” For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason he said, “Not all of you are clean.”

After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

DISCUSS

- How has your week been?

- How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

- Read the passage again.

- What does this passage tell us about Jesus?

- What does it tell us about our relationship with Him?

- What does it tell us about Christian leadership?

- How does this passage challenge me in my relationship with God?

- Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

- What am I going to do about it.

- Who am I going to share it with

- Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Let us pray

Leadership is less about the love of power and more about the power of love.

Lord, as we continue to undertake the role of leader

let us be affirmed by the servant leadership we witness in your son Jesus.

Let us walk in the path He has set and let those who will, follow.

Let our greatest passion be…compassion.

Our greatest strength…love.

Our greatest victory…the reward of peace.

In leading, let us never fail to follow.

In loving, let us never fail.

Amen.

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A/

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

7 March - We are followers of Jesus

7 March, 2021

READ 

Luke 5:1-11

Jesus Calls the First Disciples

Chapter 5

Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signalled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.

DISCUSS

- How has your week been?

- How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

- Read the passage again.

- Are you in the story? Where are you?

- For the fisherman Jesus met them in their work-place. Where do you encounter Jesus?

- What does this passage tell us about Jesus?

- What does it tell us about our relationship with Him?

- How does this passage challenge me in my relationship with God?

- Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

- What am I going to do about it?

- Who am I going to share it with?

- Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY Let us pray

This world I live in, this suburb I live in,

this street I live in, this house I live in,

may each be the focus of my prayer.

Those I live with, those I rub shoulders with,

those I work with, those I don't get on with,

may each be the focus of my prayer.

Those who laugh, those who cry,

those who hurt, those who hide,

may each be the focus of my prayer.

Prayers centred less on self and more on others,

less on my circumstances, more on the needs of others.

May my life be likewise centred less on self and more on You,

and through You to the world, in which I live and move.

Continue to grow in me a faith disciple-maker and fisherman.

Amen.

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A/

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

28 February - We are known by God

28 February, 2021

Psalm 139 is one of my favourite Psalms that speaks of God’s character in a way that is both cosmic and intimate. A psalm that speaks of God knowing, surrounding and forming us.

READ

Psalm 139

The Inescapable God

To the leader. Of David. A Psalm.

O Lord, you have searched me and known me.

You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from far away.

You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.

Even before a word is on my tongue, O Lord, you know it completely.

You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it.

Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence?

If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.

If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea,

even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast.

If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light around me become night,”

even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day,

for darkness is as light to you. For it was you who formed my inward parts;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Wonderful are your works; that I know very well. My frame was not hidden from you,

when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.

Your eyes beheld my unformed substance. In your book were written

all the days that were formed for me, when none of them as yet existed.

How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!

I try to count them—they are more than the sand; I come to the end—I am still with you.

O that you would kill the wicked, O God, and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me—

those who speak of you maliciously, and lift themselves up against you for evil!

Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?

I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies.

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.

See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been?

2. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?

3. Read the passage again.

4. How do you feel about God knowing everything about you?

5. Is this comforting or confronting

6. What does this passage tell us about God?

7. What does it tell us about our relationship with Him?

8. How does this passage challenge me in my relationship with God?

9. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

10. What am I going to do about it.

11. Who am I going to share it with

12. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Let us pray

Prayer

All-knowing God,

We gather together with praise and thanksgiving

for who You are,

and for all that You have done for us.

You know us better than we know ourselves—

all our thoughts and actions—

and yet You love us.

No matter where we go or what we do,

Your love encircles us—ahead and behind—

gently leading and guiding and blessing.

We praise You for Your love

and Your faithful presence in our lives.

May Your Spirit move in our hearts and minds as we worship together:

examine our attitudes and actions,

lay bare the things we need to confess,

challenge us with Your Word,

and guide us on to paths that lead to life.

For we are Your people, called by Your name.

Amen.

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A/

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

21st February - The Prodigal Son

21 February, 2021

Read Luke 15:11-32

DISCUSS

- Who has done the most travelling in your family/group? How has travelled changed you/them?

- What is the one thing you would love to inherit from your parents?

- How do you try to make celebrations special now?

- What stages did the younger son go through on his pilgrimage?

- From your understanding of the father what do you think he was doing while his son was away? Why do you think that?

- What was Jesus's point in this parable? What does this story teach us about sin, repentance and God's love?

- With whom do you most identify with in this story and why?

- What is Jesus telling you in this story and what are you going to do about that?

PRAY

Let us pray

Loving God we are so blessed to be a part of your kingdom. We are ever aware of our need for your constant love and care. As we journey through this week Lord hep us to be aware of the challenges before us and the spiritual battles that we engage in. Do not let us be overwhelmed but rather as we see and respond in faith to hear the support of that great cloud of witnesses that sit in our corner cheering on our behalf. Give us the strength and perseverance for our daily battles and help us to support others in similar need. In Jesus name we pray

AMEN.

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

14 February - We are Forgiven

14 February, 2021

Psalm 51 is one of the Psalms that deals with our need for penitence and forgiveness. The introduction links the Psalm to David’s sin with Bathsheba and what ensues, and as such grounds it in a real life situation. It reminds us that sin runs deep, it is more than a list of things that we do but rather runs deep within our spirit. Damaging our very being and our various relationships, with God, with others and with the creation. The Psalm reminds us that it is against God that we sin and that we cannot remedy the situation upon our own. It is only when we rely upon God and trust in him that salvation can come.

READ

Psalm 51

A Psalm of David, when the prophet Nathan came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love;

according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.

Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight,

so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass judgment.

Indeed, I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.

You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have crushed rejoice.

Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.

Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.

Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will return to you.

Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, O God of my salvation,

and my tongue will sing aloud of your deliverance.

O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.

For you have no delight in sacrifice; if I were to give a burnt offering, you would not be pleased.

The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart,

O God, you will not despise.

Do good to Zion in your good pleasure; rebuild the walls of Jerusalem,

then you will delight in right sacrifices, in burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings;

then bulls will be offered on your altar.

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been? How have you seen God at work in your life?

2. Read the passages again.

3. What does this passage tell us about God?

4. What does it tell us about our relationship with Him?

4. How does this passage challenge me in my relationship with God?

5. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

6. What am I going to do about it.

7. who am I going to share it with

8. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Let us pray

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love;

according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.

Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight,

so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass judgment.

Indeed, I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.

You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have crushed rejoice.

Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.

Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.

Psalm 51: 1-12

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

7 February - We are Protected

7 February, 2021

We have come a long way since last week where we shared the story of Paul’s dramatic conversion. Paul stayed in Damascus for 3 years, and then went to Jerusalem to become acquainted with the leading apostles there. After this meeting he began his famous missions to the west, preaching first in his native Syria and Cilicia (Galatians 1:17–24). During the next 20 years or so (c. mid-30s to mid-50s), he established several churches in Asia Minor and at least three in Europe, including the church at Corinth. During the course of his missions, Paul realized that his preaching to Gentiles was creating difficulties for the Christians in Jerusalem, who thought that Gentiles must become Jewish in order to join the Christian movement. He returned to Jerusalem to settle the issue, and it was agreed that Peter would be the principal apostle to Jews and Paul the principal apostle to Gentiles. In the late 50s Paul returned to Jerusalem with the money he had raised and a few of his Gentile converts. There he was arrested for taking a Gentile too far into the Temple precincts, and, after a series of trials, he was sent to Rome. We pick up the story as he is returning to Rome.

READ

Acts 27 :21-26, 39-44

Since they had been without food for a long time, Paul then stood up among them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and thereby avoided this damage and loss. I urge you now to keep up your courage, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For last night there stood by me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship, and he said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before the emperor; and indeed, God has granted safety to all those who are sailing with you.’ So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. But we will have to run aground on some island.”

In the morning they did not recognize the land, but they noticed a bay with a beach, on which they planned to run the ship ashore, if they could. So they cast off the anchors and left them in the sea. At the same time they loosened the ropes that tied the steering-oars; then hoisting the foresail to the wind, they made for the beach. But striking a reef, they ran the ship aground; the bow stuck and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the force of the waves. The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, so that none might swim away and escape; but the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for the land, and the rest to follow, some on planks and others on pieces of the ship. And so it was that all were brought safely to land.

DISCUSS

1. How has your week been? How have you seen God at work in your life?

2. Read the passages again.

3. What does this passage tell us about God?

4. Paul is confident that God keeps his promises. Have you such experiences in your own life?

4. How does this passage challenge me in my relationship with God?

5. Is there anything else the passage is saying to me?

6. What am I going to do about it.

7. who am I going to share it with

8. Be prepared to share back next week.

PRAY

Let us pray

Lord Jesus we thank you for the life of Paul, and his commitment to you and to share the gospel. Thank you for his witness that we have in the words of Scripture. Help us to be like Paul trusting your wisdom and protection. May we confident as we go into this week that we do not go alone but that you go before us and beside us protecting us from all sides and guiding us in the way ahead. Amen

Connect with the Sermon and our Worship Service on our Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FKu0AdcO-Y4nR_BgxZC4A

Did you know that if we get a few more subscribers to our Youtube channel we could rename it? What does that mean?

It means that it would be easier to find us. Why not subscribe today?

View

22 November 2020 - We Need God's Guidance

22 November, 2020 Dom Chan

READ: 2 Samuel 5:17-25

Here’s what happens…

David is the new king, and his enemies are angry. Many years prior, David killed a giant named Goliath…and now people from Goliath’s country want to kill David. David asks God very specific questions about how to battle these enemies, and God gives him guidance by telling him what to do.

Memory Verse

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Ephesians 2:10).

DISCUSS

1. What stands out for you in this bible passage?

2. Can you remember a time when God has gone out before you?

3. What does this say about God?

4. What does this say about us?

5. What is God saying to you?

PRAY

Dear God, Thank you. Thank you for the good times, thank you for the challenging times and thank you for our struggles. Thank you that in all these moments there are lessons for us to learn and that we may share them with you and you are there for us. Help us this week to walk with more grace and love as we see all the things around us that you have made and that we are grateful for. Help us not just to do this for a season but to allow it to become part of our identity. Thank you that we can do all things with you strengthening us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

View

15 November- We Are Strong With God

15 November, 2020

READ: Judges 6-7

Here’s what happens…

Gideon is hiding from his enemies when an angel appears, calls Gideon a mighty hero, and instructs him to go into battle. Although Gideon is weak in his own strength, he takes a large army into battle. But God whittles the army down to a very small one to show it’s God’s power that wins the battle.

Memory Verse

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Ephesians 2:10).

DISCUSS

- What stands out for you in this bible passage?

- When was a time that you were afraid but you were able to accomplish the task with God’s help?

- When was the last time you sat in silence with God?

- Has there been a time in your life where you have witnessed God giving someone the strength they need in a certain circumstance?

- What’s something you’ve done that took all your strength? Maybe taking a super long hike, lifting something heavy, or doing something nobody thought you could do. Tell your partner about it.

- What would you be willing to do if you knew it would make you stronger?

- What do you think God is saying to you? What can you do about it?

PRAY

Dear God, Thank you. Thank you that we can learn about you, share what we learn freely with others and ask questions openly about you without real fear of persecution. We thank you for the world that you have created for us and that we can see Joy in tough times, love in the smile of a stranger and Hope in the dawning of a new day. God, thank you for making us strong! When we feel weak or afraid, help us remember that we are strong with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

View

8 November- We Are God's Masterpiece

8 November, 2020

READ

Genesis 2:4-7, 18-23; Psalm 8

Here’s what happens.

God creates human beings in his image. He takes dust and breathes his very breath into humankind. Making him as the crown of his creation, and then created Eve to share with Adam. Man is given stewardship of the earth and for that we should be thankful

Memory Verse

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Ephesians 2:10).

DISCUSS

1. Share how you responded to God’s plan for your life over the past week.

2. How do you understand creation is it literal, or a fairy-tale or somewhere in between? Explain

3. What parts of creation do you find the most beautiful?

4. What does it mean to say that human beings are the crown of creation?

5. Humankind are called to be stewards of the earth. What does that mean?

6. How do you demonstrate your stewardship

a) over creation

b) your possessions.

c) your talents and gifts

7. What is there that you can do this week to demonstrate being a good steward of what God has given you. Share this and be prepared to share next week how it went.

PRAY

Creator God, you formed us from the dust of the earth, and reveal your fingerprints in all flesh. Teach us your deep wisdom in the order and beauty of all that you have made. When our care for your creation is found wanting, reprove and reform us, so that our footprints may be more gentle on the earth, tending and keeping it as your own handiwork, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

View

1 November- We have a purpose

1 November, 2020

READ

Esther 4:5-17, 9:18-22

Here’s what happens.

Esther, a Jewish woman, is chosen to become queen, but King Xerxes doesn’t know she’s Jewish. Meanwhile, King Xerxes’ right-hand man, Haman, is trying to kill all the Jews! Esther’s cousin Mordecai tells Esther that she has a purpose: to save the Jews. Esther uses her position as queen to denounce Haman and thwart a plot and so saves her people. As a result the Jews institute the feast of Purim to remember how God used Esther to save his people.

DISCUSS

1. Share what you did last week to respond to recognising Jesus as both fully human and fully divine.

2.Have you ever felt like Esther having little control over events that happen in your life?

3. Do you believe that God has placed you where you are now for a purpose? Think in terms of work, family and church.

4. Why do you think God has placed you where you are now, and what are you going to do about it?

5. Esther is called to take a risk to fulfil God’s plan? Are you being asked to take any risks and what are they?

6. Esther relied upon advice from Hegai, the king’s eunuch and Mordecai. Who are your trusted advisors? Who do you look to for advice

7. Though it’s not mentioned, the story of Esther is a part of God’s plan for the world. How are you and your life a part of that plan?

8. What is there that you can do this week to respond to God’s plan or your part in God’s plan? Share this and be prepared to share next week how it went.

PRAY

The following prayer are the words of Esther as recorded in the Apocrapha that adds several chapters to the book of Esther. I include this prayer in its entirety acknowledging these are Esther’s words but they have relevance for you and I today. May Esther’s prayer be our prayer.

Let us pray

“My Lord, you alone are our king. Help me! I have no one to help me but you, 15 and I am in great danger now. 16 From my birth, Lord, I have heard how you chose Israel from among the rest of the nations, and our fathers from their ancestors, to be an everlasting inheritance. I have heard how you did for them all that you had promised. 17 But now we have sinned before you, and you have delivered us into the power of our enemies 18 because we worshipped their gods. You are just, Lord. 19 Yet the enemies weren’t satisfied with our bitter slavery, so they shook hands with their idols in partnership. 20 They plan to set aside the promises you made, to rob you of your inheritance, to silence those who praise you, and to stamp out the honour of your temple and your altar. 21 They want to open the mouths of the nations to praise the wonderful deeds of useless idols[d] so that a human king might be honored forever.

22 “Don’t surrender your sceptre, Lord, to things that don’t exist. Don’t let them mock our downfall. Instead, turn their scheme against them and make an example of the one who started this against us. 23 Remember us, Lord, and reveal yourself in the time of our distress. Give me courage, king of the gods and ruler of every authority. 24 When I speak, let my words be persuasive before the lion, and turn the king’s heart to hatred toward the one who is fighting against us, to bring his life to an end along with those who agree with him. 25 Deliver us by your actions, and help me, I who am alone and have no one except you, Lord.

“You know all things. 26 You know that I hate the honour of those who don’t follow your Law. I detest sharing the bed of this uncircumcised king or indeed of any foreigner. 27 You know my trouble: I hate the crown[e] that is on my head when I appear in public. I despise it as I would a menstrual rag, and I don’t wear it when I am in private. 28 I, your servant, didn’t dine at Haman’s table. Nor did I honour the king’s banquet or drink wine that had been offered to the gods. 29 From the day of my crowning until now, your servant hasn’t had any joy except in you, Lord, God of Abraham. 30 All-powerful God, listen to the voice of those who despair, and deliver us from the hands of those who do wrong, and deliver me from my fear!”

View