Sermons on Doctrinal Subjects
If Anyone Sins (43 min)
Albert Leckie (1920-1988) preaches on what happens when a believer sins. Says 1 John 2:1: “We have an advocate with the Father”. What is meant by “the advocate” and what is involved in the “advocacy of Christ”? A sermon on the work of Christ in the restoration of the sinning believer. (Message preached in Quarry Lane Gospel Hall, Birmingham, Oct 1974).
A Nation Unique Among Peoples (58 min)
In the fifth of a series of messages on “Distinctive doctrines that divide and decide”, David Gilliland preaches on “a nation unique among peoples”. In a panoramic view of the past, present and future of the nation of Israel, Mr Gilliland shows their uniqueness as a nation, and their place in God’s plan for the ages. Readings: Exod 19:1-7, Rom 9:1-7, 11:12, 25-26a, 29. (Message preached in Northern Ireland in 2005) Complete series: A species unique among creatures A period…
A Book Unique Among Volumes (60 min)
In the fourth message of a series entitled “Distinctive doctrines that divide and decide”, David Gilliland preaches on “a book unique among volumes”. The Bible is unique in a number of ways: its source, its survival, its scrolls, its subject, its similes, its sufficiency, its Saviour, its supernatural prophecies. and its study. Readings: 2 Tim 3:13-5:3a. (Message preached in Northern Ireland in 2005) Complete series: A species unique among creatures A period unique among the ages A gathering unique among…
A Gathering Unique Among Meetings (57 min)
In the third message of a series entitled “Distinctive doctrines that divide and decide”, David Gilliland preaches on “a gathering unique among meetings”. The Lord’s Supper is unique in a number of ways: it is a remembrance, a proclamation, an ordinance, a communion, a supper, a table, a celebration, a foretaste, a test and a gospel. Readings: 1 Cor 10:14-17, 21-22, 11:20-32. (Message preached in Northern Ireland in 2005) Complete series: A species unique among creatures A period unique among…
A Period Unique Among the Ages (58 min)
In the second of a series of messages on “Distinctive doctrines that divide and decide”, David Gilliland preaches on “a period unique among the ages”. The present age, between the first and second coming of Christ, sometimes called “the dispensation of the grace of God”, is unique in many ways connected with the Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the church, the preaching of the gospel and prayer. Readings: 2 Thess 2:6-8a, 1 Tim 1:17, 2:6-7, 6:14-16, Titus 2:11-15. (Message preached…
A Species Unique Among Creatures (54 min)
Opening a series of messages entitled “Distinctive doctrines that divide and decide”, David Gilliland preaches on “a species unique among creatures”. The creation of man was deliberate, divine, dignified, designed, dual and double. Readings: Gen 1:24-31, 2:7, 9, 19-20. (Message preached in Northern Ireland in 2005) Complete series: A species unique among creatures A period unique among the ages A gathering unique among meetings A book unique among volumes A nation unique among peoples
The Counterintuitive Wisdom of God (41 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the counterintuitive wisdom of God in the gospel. God designed a ‘foolish’ message, He saved a ‘foolish’ people, and He employed a ‘foolish’ method, all to repudiate human wisdom and humiliate human pride. So, let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. Reading: 1 Cor 1:17-2:5. Photo: University students. (Message preached in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, in May 2012)
What Does It Mean to Die with Christ? (52 min)
Ian Jackson answers the question “What does it mean to die with Christ?” in a detailed look at the subject of the mortification of the believer’s body as it relates to the past, the present and the future. Readings: Rom 6:12-14, 8:12-16, Col 3:1-11. (Message preached in Sarnia Gospel Hall, Canada, 16th Nov 2022)
The Existence and Nature of God from Gen 1:1 (38 min)
Ian Jackson preaches on the first verse in the Bible, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). He outlines what the verse denies (atheism, pantheism, humanism, materialism, and evolution) and what the verse affirms about the existence and nature of God (God’s divinity, eternity, deity, singularity, plurality, unity, transcendency, ability). (Message preached in Sarnia, Ontario Canada)
The Truth of Election (35 min)
David Gilliland preaches on the subject of election, highlighting the references in the Bible to the expression “the elect of God” and outlining their definition, their description and their destination. Readings: Rom 8:31-39, Col 3:12-14, Titus 1:1-4. (Message preached in Glenburn Gospel Hall, Northern Ireland).
The Nature and Characteristics of Righteousness (30 min)
David Gilliland preaches on the vital but seldom expounded topic of “righteousness” – what it is and what marks it in its various manifestations in Scripture, and its practical implications. Reading: Psalm 11:4-7 (Message preached at the Belfast Christmas Conference 2004)
Great Gospel Words – Adoption (52 min)
In the last of a series of 6 messages on “great gospel words”, David Gilliland preaches on the topic of adoption and expounds what is involved in the sonship of believers in Christ. Readings: Rom 8:14-23, Gal 4:1-7, Eph 1:1-6 (Message preached in Northern Ireland) Complete series: Remission of sin Justification Regeneration Redemption Reconciliation Adoption
Great Gospel Words – Reconciliation (55 min)
In the fifth of a series of 6 messages on “great gospel words”, David Gilliland preaches on the topic of reconciliation including; sinners being reconciled to God, Jew and Gentile reconciled through the cross, and the reconciliation of all things. Readings: Col 1:19-22, 3:15, Eph 2:13-18, 2 Cor 5:17-21 (Message preached in Northern Ireland) Complete series: Remission of sin Justification Regeneration Redemption Reconciliation Adoption
Great Gospel Words – Redemption (56 min)
In the fourth of a series of 6 messages on “great gospel words”, David Gilliland preaches on the topic of redemption. He outlines the parties in the process, plus the price paid and the wideness of the doctrine of redemption. Readings: Rom 3:23-24, 1 Pet 1:14-21 (Message preached in Northern Ireland) Complete series: Remission of sin Justification Regeneration Redemption Reconciliation Adoption
Great Gospel Words – Regeneration (51 min)
In the third of a series of 6 messages on “great gospel words”, David Gilliland preaches on the topic of regeneration. In contrast to the objective legal work of justification that deals with the sentence of our guilt, regeneration is a subjective inward work that deals with our self, bringing new life and enabling us to live for God. Readings: Matt 19:28, Titus 3:1-7 (Message preached in Northern Ireland) Complete series: Remission of sin Justification Regeneration Redemption Reconciliation Adoption
Martin Luther’s Testimony of Salvation (19 min)
In the final message of a 7-part series on “How we got our Bible”, Mervyn Hall preaches the gospel and tells the story of how Martin Luther was converted to Christ. Martin Luther made three discoveries in his life that opened his eyes to the truth. Readings: 2 Tim 3;15, Eph 2:8-9 (Message preached in Huyton Gospel Hall, Liverpool) Complete series: Part 1 – God has spoken: the nature of divine revelation Part 2 – William Tyndale: to scatter darkness…
Great Gospel Words – Justification (52 min)
In the second of a series of 6 messages on “great gospel words”, David Gilliland preaches on the topic of the justification. Its platform, its principle, its purpose etc. Readings: Rom 3:19-28, 5:1-2 (Message preached in Northern Ireland) Complete series: Remission of sin Justification Regeneration Redemption Reconciliation Adoption
What Makes a Good Bible Translation? (55 min)
In the sixth of a 7-part series on “How we got our Bible”, Mervyn Hall answers the question “What makes a good Bible translation?” and gives guidance on the translating of the Bible into other languages. He discusses the timeline, the texts and different types of translations. Readings: Matt 28:18-20, Rev 5:6-10 (Message preached in Huyton Gospel Hall, Liverpool) Complete series: Part 1 – God has spoken: the nature of divine revelation Part 2 – William Tyndale: to scatter darkness…
How Do We Know the Bible Has 66 Books? (50 min)
In the fifth of a 7-part series on “How we got our Bible”, Mervyn Hall deals with the topic of canonisation and answers the question “How do we know the Bible has 66 books? Readings: Gal 6:14-16, Luke 11:45-51, 24:25-27, 44, 2 Pet 3:1-3, 14-16, 1 Tim 5:17-18, 1 Cor 13:8-10. (Message preached in Huyton Gospel Hall, Liverpool) Complete series: Part 1 – God has spoken: the nature of divine revelation Part 2 – William Tyndale: to scatter darkness by…
Great Gospel Words – Remission (43 min)
In the first of a series of 6 messages on “great gospel words”, David Gilliland preaches on the topic of the remission, pardon and forgiveness of sins. Readings: Matt 26:26-28, Heb 10:12-18 (Message preached in Northern Ireland) Complete series: Remission of sin Justification Regeneration Redemption Reconciliation Adoption
Has the Bible Been Changed? (48 min)
In the fourth of a 7-part series on “How we got our Bible”, Mervyn Hall answers the question “Has the Bible been changed?” How do we know that the Bible we have in our hands is the same as was originally given by God? Is our Bible reliable? Mr Hall shows that Scripture’s preservation is defined in the Word of God; preservation is the deliberate work of God; preservation is a demonstration of the wisdom of God; and preservation is…
Is the Bible Divinely Inspired? (48 min)
In the third of a 7-part series on “How we got our Bible”, Mervyn Hall preaches on how God actually gave Scripture to us. He takes up the principle, the pattern, the paradox, the proofs, the point, and the period of divine inspiration. Readings: 2 Tim 3:14-17. 2 Pet 1:12-21, 1 Cor 2:10-14a, Psa 19:7-11 (Message preached in Huyton Gospel Hall, Liverpool) Complete series: Part 1 – God has spoken: the nature of divine revelation Part 2 – William Tyndale:…
William Tyndale: To Scatter Darkness by His Light (40 min)
In the second of a 7-part series on “How we got our Bible”, Mervyn Hall preaches on the life and work of William Tyndale (1494-1536): the man, his mission, his mandate, his method, his message, his motive, his martyrdom and the mark he left on history. Reading: 2 Tim 2:7-9. (Message preached in Huyton Gospel Hall, Liverpool) Complete series: Part 1 – God has spoken: the nature of divine revelation Part 2 – William Tyndale: to scatter darkness by His…
God Has Spoken – The Nature of Divine Revelation (43 min)
In the first of a 7-part series on “How we got our Bible”, Mervyn Hall preaches on the nature of divine revelation – how God reveals Himself to humanity – most especially how He reveals Himself in the inspired written Word of God. Readings: Heb 1:1-3, John 1:1-12, Psa 119:105, 19:1-3, 7-11, 2 Pet 1:19-21, Jas 1:21-25. (Message preached in Huyton Gospel Hall, Liverpool) Complete series: Part 1 – God has spoken: the nature of divine revelation Part 2 –…
The Book of the Generation of Jesus Christ (58 min)
PART 2 – Phil Coulson looks at the “book of the generation of Jesus Christ”. The New Testament begins with a long list of names – a genealogy – which is seldom addressed in ministry. Mr Coulson expounds the topic to profit. Reading: Matt 1:1-17 (Preached in Edmonton, Canada, 2019).
The Book of the Generations of Adam (51 min)
PART 1 – Phil Coulson takes a broad sweeping look at the course of history from Adam to Christ, taking a particular interest in the early chapters of Genesis and the “generations of Adam”. A thought provoking message. Reading: Gen 5:1-3, Matt 1:1 (Preached in Edmonton, Canada, 2019).
7 Parts of the Armour of God (48 min)
Cameron Piper speaks on the 7 parts of the armour of God from Ephesians ch 6. He takes up the subject of spiritual warfare and outlines the strategy of the evil one as he seeks to attack Christians with his fiery darts. By taking to ourselves the whole armour of God, we can stand and withstand in the evil day. (Message preached 17th June 2021)
7 Churches of Asia (46 min)
John Salisbury speaks on the 7 churches of Asia from Revelation Chs 1, 2 and 3. After setting the 7 churches in their context with the book of Revelation, Mr Salisbury looks at the 7 churches historically, prophetically and practically. (Message preached 10th June 2021)
7 Parables of the Kingdom (36 min)
David West speaks on the 7 parables of the Kingdom of Heaven in Matthew Ch 13. The sower, the wheat and the tares, the mustard seed, the leaven in the meal, the treasure in the field, the pearl of great price and the dragnet. Mr West sets the context of the passage and explains how these parables should be understood dispensationally. (Message preached 27th May 2021)
7 Garments of the High Priest (52 min)
Tom West speaks on the 7 garments of the High Priest: the linen breeches, the linen coat, the girdle of fine needlework, the mitre, the blue robe, the ephod, and the breastplate. He draws doctrinal and practical teaching from these types, both in relation to the person of Christ and also the believer. Readings: Exod 28:1-4, Heb 2:14-18, 4:14-16 (Message preached 20th May 2021)
7 Items of Tabernacle Furniture (48 min)
Mervyn Hall speaks on the 7 items of furniture in the Tabernacle of Moses. Three that give us a backward look to the crucified Christ, and 4 that give us an upward look to a glorified Christ. The brazen altar (justification); the laver (regeneration); the mercy seat (propitiation); the lampstand (illumination); the table of showbread (provision); the altar of incense (communication) and the ark of the covenant (Message preached 13th May 2021)
What is our hope? (54 min)
PART 4 of 4 – In the last of a series of 4 messages on big Bible questions, David Gilliland preaches on the question “What is our hope?” and takes up the topic of the Christian’s sure hope from various parts of the New Testament. Reading: 1 Thess 2:17-20 (Message preached in Dundonald, 2006) Complete series: 1. What is man? – The question of identity 2. What is truth? – The question of reality 3. What is your life? –…
What is your life? (54 min)
PART 3 of 4 – In the third of a series of 4 messages on big Bible questions, David Gilliland preaches on the question “What is your life?” In a challenging message he urges his audience to assess what they are really living for. “Only one life, ’twill soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.” Reading: James 5:13-17 (Message preached in Dundonald, 2006) Complete series: 1. What is man? – The question of identity 2. What is…
What is truth? (53 min)
PART 2 of 4 – In the second of a series of 4 messages on big Bible questions, David Gilliland preaches on the question “What is truth?” This is a fundamental question, the answer to which David divides into four: the problems for truth, the phraseology of truth, the pictures of truth, and the profile of truth. A helpful and important message. Reading: John 18:33-40 (Message preached in Dundonald, 2006) Complete series: 1. What is man? – The question of…
What is man? (49 min)
PART 1 of 4 – In the first of a series of 4 messages on big Bible questions, David Gilliland preaches on the question “What is man?” He looks at man in his dignity, a unique and purposeful creation of God. Then, man in his depravity – a creature who now worships the gods of money, sex and power. Then man in his deliverance, his development and ultimately his destiny. Readings: Job 7:17-21, 15:14-16, Psa 8:3-9, Psa 144:3-4, 11-12, Heb…
The Sovereignty of God (43 min)
THE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD – Michael Penfold preaches on the self-existence, self-sufficiency and sovereignty of God. He addresses the question, “If God is sovereign, how can man be free?” (Message preached 11th Mar 2010)
The Glory that Follows Justification (65 min)
PART 5 of 5 – David Gilliland preaches the last message in his series on “justification by faith”. He expounds the glorious 8th chapter of Romans – a chapter full of glory – using the following headings: the fitness for glory, the family of glory, the fulness of glory, the freedom of glory, the focus of glory, the fears for glory, and the freeness of glory. He closes by looking at 4 questions: the power question, the prosecution question, the…
The Godliness that Accompanies Justification (59 min)
PART 4 of 5 – David Gilliland preaches on justification’s twin: sanctification. Chs 5-8 of Romans explain how we should live in the light of our justification. The fact that we have been cleared of all guilt doesn’t mean we can now live as we like. Quite the reverse; godly, holy living is what follows. David expounds the 2 men (order), 2 masters (obligation), 2 marriages (occupation) and 2 minds (operation) that the apostle Paul introduces as he outlines the…
The Grace which Bestows Justification (61 min)
PART 3 of 5 – David Gilliland preaches on how a person can be justified. Christ has died and risen, but how can a condemned guilty sinner receive the blessing of justification and be declared righteous? By faith alone. This is the wonder of divine grace. And this is what Romanism calls anathema! A vital message on the central issue of how a person can be made right with God. A comprehensive message covering multiple fundamental issues. Readings: Rom 3:27-4:5,…
The Ground that Secures Justification (58 min)
PART 2 of 5 – David Gilliland expounds the pivotal passage in Romans 3:19-26 and outlines 10 points in connection with God’s plan to justify sinners on the ground of the work of Christ. He explains the crucial doctrine of propitiation, whereby God’s justice has satisfied through the appeasing of His wrath in the sacrifice of Christ. This is the ground, the basis, of justification. (Message preached in Ballywatermoy, 2005) Messages in this series: The guilt that requires justification (Audio)…
The Guilt that Demands Justification (57 min)
PART 1 of 5 – David Gilliland opens a series of messages on the fundamental and vital topic of “justification by faith” in the epistle of Paul to the Romans, with a look at the need for it brought about by human guilt. He works his way through Chs 1 and 2 and into the first half of Ch 3 tracing the scope, the seriousness, the standard, the statement, the sentence, and the silence of the guilt of humanity. This…
Bible Basics for Beginners – How Can I Know? (38 min)
PART 6 of 6 – Sandy Higgins preaches on one of the most important questions facing young believers as they start out in their new life in Christ: how can I know what the will of God is for my life? What should I do? Where should I live? Who should I marry? Do I go on feelings, or on some kind of “spiritual hunch”? An excellent message giving much needed scriptural guidance. Readings: Num 9:19-20, 10:1-2, 12-16, 33-35a, Psa…
Bible Basics for Beginners – What can I do? (38 min)
PART 5 of 6 – Sandy Higgins give guidance from the Word of God to help the Christian understand “what should I be doing for God?” Each believer has a gift and a sphere of service. No one is useless: everyone is vital. Sandy speaks on the privilege of serving God, the power for serving God, the pathway of serving God, the purpose of serving God and the peril of serving God. Listen out for Sandy’s advice on “How do…
Bible Basics for Beginners – What about my Struggles? (43 min)
PART 4 of 6 – Sandy Higgins opens up the subject of the struggles of the new Christian as he or she faces “the enemy”, which comes in three forms – the world, the flesh and the devil. It comes as a shock to some newly saved people to discover that the Christian life is marked by constant struggle! Mr Higgins works through a number of issues that can come into our life and pose a great danger, and also…
Bible Basics for Beginners – Is It OK? (43 min)
PART 3 of 6 – Now that I am saved, what is permissible? Can I still do this or that, can I go here or there? What is allowed and what isn’t? Sandy Higgins preaches on the subject of sanctification and separation under the following headings: separation’s spheres, scope, standard, sequel and strength. A faithful and wise setting forth of vital truth. Readings: Gen 2:1-3, 2 Cor 6:14-7:1. 1 Thess 4:1-2, Heb 10:9-10, 12:14, 1 Pet 1:14-16. 1 John 1:5-7…
Bible Basics for Beginners – Can I Trust My Bible? (37 min)
PART 2 of 6 – Sandy Higgins preaches on the vital relationship between the new believer and the Word of God. He does so by asking a series of questions about the Bible: 1. Is the Bible a revelation? 2. Is it reliable? 3. Is it relevant? 4. Is it reasonable? 5. Is it rational? and, 6. Is it rewarding? Readings: Prov 2:1-5, 1 Cor 2:10-16, 2 Tim 3:14-17, 1 Pet 1:10-12, 2:1-3, 2 Pet 1:19-21 (Message preached in Barrington,…
Bible Basics for Beginners – What Did I Get? (37 min)
PART 1 of 6 – Sandy Higgins gives one of the best introductions you’ll hear to “what happens when a person gets saved”. This is an ideal message for a new believer (and a refresher for the rest of us). His three sections are “What’s in a name (salvation)?” “What are God’s claims?” and “What is God’s aim?” Listen up for his powerful answer to the objection “If ‘once saved always saved’ is true, then I can live as I…
Theology 101 – Lordship (40 min)
PART 6 of 6 – In the last of a 6-part series on the fundamentals of the gospel, Mr Jim Allen speaks on the subject of Lordship. He first takes it up dispensationally and reveals the significance of the title “Lord Jesus Christ”. Then he takes a look at Lordship personally and practically and what it really means for a person to say “Jesus is Lord”. A challenging weighty message. Readings: Phil 2:5-11, Acts 2:36, 9:6, Rom 10:8-10, 14:6-12 (Message…
7 Sayings of the Cross (54 min)
Dan Rudge preaches on the 7 sayings of the Lord Jesus on the cross. He raises some questions: “Father forgive them”; but who are the “them”? “Today in Paradise”; but where is Paradise? “My God, My God”; but why not “My Father, My Father”? Dan addresses these questions (and much else beside) in a wide-ranging helpful message. His headings for the Lord’s 7 sayings are: A word for the transgressors A word of truth A word of tenderness A word…
Theology 101 – Sanctification (29 min)
PART 5 of 6 – In the fifth part of a 6-part series on the fundamentals of the gospel, Mr Jim Allen speaks on the subject of sanctification. The root idea of the word sanctification, Mr Allen explains, is to be “set apart”. Its basis – the blood of Christ; its agent – the Holy Spirit; its result – seen in three areas of my person…my mind with which I know God, my emotions with which I love God and…
Theology 101 – Propitiation (36 min)
PART 4 of 6 – In the fourth part of a 6-part series on the fundamentals of the gospel, Mr Jim Allen speaks on the subject of propitiation. Distinguishing biblical propitiation from pagan propitiation, Mr Allen shows that God has set forth Christ to be the sacrifice that satisfies His righteousness and thereby appeases His wrath, allowing Him to be merciful to the guilty on a righteous basis. This is the very heart of the gospel, whereby a work has…
7 Titles of Jehovah (46 min)
Peter Scarsbrook speaks on 7 of the titles of Jehovah, namely: Jehovah-Tsidkenu, Jehovah-Jireh, Jehovah-Ropheka, Jehovah-Shalom, Jehovah-Mekaddishkem, Jehovah-Nissi and Jehovah-Shammah. These “compound names” have much to teach us about the nature of God, and provide much by way of practical thought-provoking ministry flowing therefrom. (Message preached 5th Dec 2020)
Theology 101 – Retribution (29 min)
PART 3 of 6 – In the third part of a 6-part series on the fundamentals of the gospel, Mr Jim Allen speaks on the subject of the last judgment, when Christ will judge the wicked dead of all ages. Reading one of the Bible’s most solemn passages, Revelation 20:11-15, Mr Allen then speaks on the setting of the judgment, the scene of the judgment, the subjects of the judgment, the standards of the judgment, and the sentence of the…
Theology 101 – Justification (38 min)
PART 2 of 6 – In the second part of a 6-part series on the fundamentals of the gospel, Mr Jim Allen speaks on the essential biblical topic of justification. Justification is not the ‘making’ of a person righteous: it is the ‘declaring’ of a person righteous. How can this be done? By grace. The condemned guilty sinner has nothing to plead; but God has set forth Christ as the propitiation for our sins. Every charge has been met and…
Theology 101 – Human Depravity (38 min)
PART 1 of 6 – In the first part of a 6-part series on the fundamentals of the gospel, Mr Jim Allen speaks clearly and powerfully on the little understood and oft-avoided topic of human depravity. Rarely taken up in ministry as a stand-alone subject, this is a solid, essential and wide-ranging setting forth of biblical truth. Not only for gospel preachers, but also for elders, parents, Sunday School teachers – indeed, all of us – this message will prove…
Part 2 – The Temptation of Christ (45 min)
PART 2 – David Vallance continues on the theme of the temptation of Christ in the wilderness, but in this second message, after examining the character of each of the three temptations, he shows how Satan uses these same temptations with us. Satan tempts us to be something, to do something and to gain something. He works with the lust of the flesh, the pride of life and the lust of the eyes. This insightful message will open your understanding…
Part 1 – The Temptation of Christ (26 min)
PART 1 – David Vallance preaches a most interesting and instructive message on the temptation of Christ in the wilderness. He explains the three temptations of Christ by Satan and traces their character through Scripture. He tackles the difficult questions of 1. Could Christ have sinned? and 2. If not, in what way was the temptation real? Although only 26 minutes long, this message is packed full of sound and weighty doctrinal content, and will repay repeated listening. Reading: Matthew…
The 7 Days of Creation (44 min)
Ian Jackson preaches on “the 7 days of creation”. After reading Genesis 1, he explains how the chapter is foundational to all of Scripture. It is narrative, not poetry, giving a literal history of the 7 literal days of creation. Ian discusses various theories (gap theory, day age theory etc) and gives various weighty reasons why they ought not to be believed. He shows how Genesis 1 reveals the true nature of both God and man. Finally he points out…
Understanding Saving Faith (40 min)
PART 2 of 2 – Michael Penfold preaches on the foundational doctrine of saving faith under 4 headings: 1. A definition of faith; 2. The principle of faith; 3. The nature of faith and 4. The results of faith. What does it mean to believe in Christ? Why do some people have trouble believing? These and other vital questions are explored in a message that will help anyone struggling with assurance, as well as anyone involved in spreading the gospel…
Understanding Repentance (40 min)
PART 1 of 2 – Michael Penfold preaches on the fundamentally important foundational doctrine of repentance under 5 headings: 1. Why study repentance? 2. What is the link between repentance and faith? 3. What is repentance? 4. How does repentance come about? 5. What are the fruits of repentance? This rarely dealt with subject is vital, for unless we understand repentance we will be unable to properly preach the gospel. Readings: Matt 4:17, Luke 13:3, 15:17-19, 24:46-47, Acts 2:37-38a, 20:20-21,…
His Death (47 min)
PART 4 – Ian Jackson preaches on “His death”, the death of Christ. While our justification has been brought about by His blood, our reconciliation has been brought about by His death. Ian expounds the truths of substitution, representation and identification and shows that our deliverance from sin has been brought about by our death with Christ – and one of the keys to victory over sin is therefore to reckon this fact to be so and to yield myself…
His Blood (47 min)
PART 3 – Ian Jackson preaches on “His blood”, the blood of Christ. He expounds the difference between sin and sins in Paul’s epistle to the Romans, and shows how the blood of Christ deals with the legal guilt of our sins (what we’ve done), while the death of Christ, and our identification with it, deals with “sin” (what we are by nature). He goes on to distinguish between blood-shedding and blood-sprinkling by reference to the picture of Calvary given…
His Cross and the Old Man (44 min)
PART 2 – Ian Jackson preaches on “His cross and the old man”. Having looked at the cross historically, Ian looks at “the cross” doctrinally. He develops the truth that at the cross “our old man was crucified with Christ”. Ian explains that the old man is not the same as the flesh. Rather, “the old man” is “Adamic man”. God terminated “the old man” at the cross, judicially passing sentence on “man in Adam”. The one act of the…
His Cross and the World (55 min)
PART 1 – Ian Jackson preaches on “His cross and the world”. In the first in a series of messages on His cross (Galatians), His blood (Hebrews) and His death (Romans), Ian explains that the cross is a symbol of the world’s hatred against Christ. While God gave Christ our sins, the world awarded Christ with “the cross”. Ian explores the origin of “this world” from the book of Genesis and finishes with an appeal: “Can I love the world’s…
Why I Am a Futurist (45 min)
There are 4 main views of the timing of the book of Revelation: preterism, historicism, idealism and futurism. Michael Penfold explains that how we choose between them ultimately comes down to how we interpret Bible prophecy. He sets out the general laws of hermeneutics and then gives specific direction as to how to interpret prophetic symbols. He finishes by testing the 4 views against three items in the book of Revelation (Message preached 14th Apr 2019)
Why I am a Dispensationalist (46 min)
After defining what a ‘dispensation’ (Gk. oikonomia) is, Mervyn Hall explains that a dispensational hermeneutic is critical to an accurate understanding of the Bible. He refutes numerous criticisms of dispensationalism, as well as pointing out weaknesses in the main alternative, namely “covenant theology”. He then gives 4 reasons why he is a dispensationalist, before finishing up with an inductive study of Scripture that demonstrates the Biblical basis for dispensationalism (Readings: Eph 1:10-11, 3:1-21) (Message preached 17th Mar 2019)
Why I Am Complementarian (43 min)
Michael Penfold expounds complementarianism – that truth that God not only created two different genders in the beginning, but that He assigned different roles to each – headship to the male, and ‘helper-ship’ to the female. Opposed by feminism, this is nevertheless the plain teaching of Genesis Ch 2 (before the fall) and is reiterated in 7 key passages in the NT – Eph 5:21-23, Col 3:18-19, 1 Tim 2:8-15, Titus 2:4-5, 1 Cor 11:1-16, 14:34-38, 1 Pet 3:1-7 (Message…
Why I am in an Assembly (37 min)
After defining the words “fellowship” (Gk: koinonia) and “assembly” (Gk: ekklesia), Michael Penfold sets out 3 reasons “Why I am in fellowship in a local assembly”. First, because of the purpose of God; second, because of the presence of Christ; and third, because of the pattern of Scripture. The Bible expects all believers to be in a local assembly gathered unto the name of the Lord Jesus. Readings: Matt 18:20, Acts 2:41-42, 9:26-28, 15:14. (Message preached 24th Feb 2019)
Why I am Trinitarian (43 min)
Dan Rudge preaches on “Why I am Trinitarian” under three headings: the Trinity is “clearly taught in Scripture”, is “critical to our salvation” and “controls our service”. After refuting the two major anti-trinitarian errors promoted today (Modalism and Arianism), Dan expounds the glorious truth of “one God in three persons, blessed Trinity” (Message preached 3rd Feb 2019)
Why I Am Evangelical (45 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on “Why I am Evangelical”. After some introductory historical remarks, he highlights the four “C’s” underpinning the gospel (“evangelical” comes from the Greek word for gospel; “euangelion”). The authority of the canon; the centrality of the cross; the necessity of conversion, and the priority of the commission. (Message preached 27th Jan 2019)
Why I Am a Christian (44 min)
A Christian is someone who has been justified by faith in Jesus Christ. But how can a person know that Jesus Christ really existed, or that He is who the Bible claims Him to be, or that He really died and rose again? Michael Penfold outlines 5 basic lines of evidence for the Christian faith: 1. The eye-witness testimony of Scripture; 2. The fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy; 3. The existence of the church; 4. The martyrdom of the apostles,…
Why Stand for Truth? (42 min)
Mervyn Hall introduces a series of messages on “Why we believe what we believe” by asking a basic preliminary question – “Why stand for truth?” Is truth still as important as ever? Isn’t it all just a matter of opinion? Should not love hold the trump card over truth? Basing his remarks on Paul’s two epistles to Timothy, Mervyn not only defends the basic concept of truth, but also outlines 5 reasons why we still must stand for truth in…
The Doctrine of Original Sin (39 min)
Can we still believe that taking the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden rightfully initiated such a fearful divine judgment on humanity as “the fall”? In this message on Genesis Ch 3, Michael Penfold outlines the context, cause, character and consequences of the first sin. God’s fairness in banishing Adam and Eve from the garden, and constituting all of their progeny sinners due to “one man’s sin” – is defended.…
Were There Two Falls of Angels? (46 min)
Mervyn Hall expounds the subject of God’s judgments on Satan and his angels – discussing God’s motive, manner and moment of judgment. Questions addressed include: When did Satan fall? What brought about his fall? Were there two falls of angels, or one? Who are the sons of God in Genesis 6? Readings in Gen 3, 6, John 16, 2 Pet 2 and Jude (Message preached 14th Oct 2018)
One God in Three Persons (42 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on the vital and fundamental doctrine of the Trinity – God in three persons. He explains that the Lord Jesus is not “part of God”. Each person in the Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – is wholly, equally, simultaneously and fully God. Mervyn exposes Arianism, modalism and tri-theism, and identifies their modern proponents. He also explains why illustrating the Trinity using examples such as the sun, water, clover or an egg, is misleading and liable…
Is the Trinity a Bible Doctrine? (42 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on the doctrine of the Trinity – God in three persons. He explains that the Lord Jesus is not “part of God”. Each person in the Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – is wholly, equally, simultaneously and fully God. Mervyn exposes Arianism, modalism and tri-theism, and identifies their modern proponents. He also explains why illustrating the Trinity using examples such as the sun, water, clover or an egg, is misleading and liable to reinforce ancient…
Evaluating Bible Translations (44 min)
Michael Penfold gives an introductory history of how the Bible has been translated into various languages, including English, before highlighting 4 main issues to be considered in the task of Bible translating – motives, men, manuscripts and method. Based on the fact of the plenary verbal inspiration of Scripture, he emphasises that the Bible should be translated according to principles of formal, not dynamic, equivalence (Message preached 18th Feb 2018)
Why Are There 66 Books in the Bible? (34 min)
Dan Rudge explains why there are 66 books in the Bible, and only 66. How did these books qualify for entry into the “canon of Scriture”? What principles determined their selection? Are we sure we have the correct number and assortment of Bible books? What about the apocrypha and other “gospels” that are not in the Bible? These are other questions are answered in this helpful message (Message preached 4th Feb 2018)
The Authority and Inspiration of Scripture (36 min)
Sandy Higgins preaches on the foundational topic of the authority and inspiration of Scripture. What exactly does “the inspiration of Scripture” mean? What is the difference between impartation, inspiration and illumination? What gives the Bible its authority? (Message preached in North America).
Why Did God Give Us the Bible? (41 min)
Mervyn Hall asks three questions: What is the Bible? (Definition); Why do we have a Bible? (Design); and How did we get our Bible? (Delivery). He outlines the 4 types of revelation through which God speaks to humanity (Creation, conscience, Christ and the Canon) and lists numerous reasons why God gave us the Word of God (Readings: Psa 19:1-7, 2 Tim 2:14-16, Heb 4:12, 2 Pet 1:2-21, Luke 24:25-27) (Message preached 7th Jan 2018)
The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit (35 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the person, work and titles of the Holy Spirit. He emphasises that the Holy Spirit is God, is a real person and is intimately involved in everything to do with the conversion and daily life of the believer in Christ. Titles such as “the Spirit of Christ”, “the Spirit of glory and of God” and “the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead” are discussed (Message preached 23rd Apr 2017)
The Gift of Tongues (35 min)
Jack Hay preaches about the Biblical “gift of tongues”. He explains that it was the God-given unlearned ability to speak in a real foreign language, and that it was a sign to unbelieving Israel. He also explains that the modern gift of tongues is a false thing, totally unrelated to the Biblical gift we read of in Acts and 1 Corinthians (Message preached in Bicester, Easter 15th April 2017)
The Glory of God – Our Aim (37 min)
PART 7 – David Castles preaches on the the aim of the Christian life from 1 Cor 10:31 – “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” The child of God is given the privilege of bringing glory to God – of ascribing the honour and praise due to Him because of His divine being, attributes and actions. David explains that as Christ glorified God on the earth, so we ourselves live…
The Glory of God – His Purposes (39 min)
PART 6 – Michael Penfold preaches on the “purpose of the ages” and explains how it is designed to bring glory to God. History is heading to a glorious climax…the “goal of history” that was purposed by God in Christ before the foundation of the world. Do you know what this goal is? Open your Bible to Ephesians chapters 1 and 3, and Romans chapter 8, and listen along to familiarise yourself with this most important subject – the divine…
The Glory of God – His Salvation (41 min)
PART 5 – Gary Woods preaches on the glory of God in His salvation. He outlines various aspects of the broad subject of salvation before homing in on the vital doctrine of justification, which he deals with under three headings: the acquittal, the standing and the imputation. He explains that justification is by grace as to its source, by blood as to its basis, by faith as to its means, by God as to its assurance, and by power as…
The Glory of God – His Son (46 min)
PART 3 – Dan Rudge preaches on the glory of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. Working from Philippians 2:5-11, Mr Rudge outlines the glory of Christ’s substance, service, sacrifice and supremacy. The full deity of Christ, His eternal Sonship, His impeccability, His unlimited propitiation and the glory of His risen exalted position at God’s right hand are expounded and defended from this powerful Christological passage (Message preached 17th Nov 2016)
The Glory of God – His Creation (37 min)
PART 2 – David West preaches on the glory of God in His creation. He takes a tour through Job Chapters 38-41 and surveys God’s three challenges to Job. 1). Can you explain My creation? 2). Can you oversee My creation? 3). Can you subdue My creation? The power, greatness, wisdom and providential care of God, which are manifested in creation, all speak of His glory. All of this is on display 24 hours a day! (Message preached 10th Nov…
The Glory of God – His Person (46 min)
PART 1 – Mervyn Hall preaches on the doctrine of the Trinity – “One God in three persons”. He deals with the topic under 4 headings: 1) Who is God? Identity. 2) Where is God? Eternity. 3) How does God exist? Trinity. and 4) What does God do? Activity. The Bible truth of the Trinity is expounded, while the errors of Arianism (Jehovah’s Witnesses), Modalism (Oneness Pentecostalism) and tri-theism (Mormonism) are refuted (Message preached 3rd Nov 2016)
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (48 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on the 21 gifts of the Spirit listed in 1 Cor 12, Romans 12, Eph 4 and 1 Peter 4. Do all Christians have a gift? How do you know what your gift is? What is the relationship, if any, between natural ability and spiritual gift? Are all 21 gifts still in operation or have some of them ceased? These and other questions are answered in this wide ranging message about this important and practical subject of…
The Baptism and the Filling of the Holy Spirit (33 min)
David West preaches on the difference between the baptism and the filling of the Holy Spirit. ‘Spirit baptism’ is not a ‘second’ experience subsequent to salvation. In fact, the baptiser is the Lord; He baptises ‘in’ the Spirit. This is true of every believer positionally. The ‘filling’ of the Spirit does not mean one person can have more of the Holy Spirit than another. It simply means that a believer should be controlled by the Holy Spirit and thus fitted…
The Holy Spirit and the Christian Life (46 min)
Dan Rudge preaches on the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life. He takes up his subject under the following headings: Insurance (seal/earnest/anointing), Indwelling (life/teaching/holiness), Imprint (fruit) and Inhibiting (grieving/quenching). A wide-ranging message on the multifaceted ministry of the Holy Spirit today (Message preached 1st Oct 2015)
The Holy Spirit in Regeneration (38 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the work of the Holy Spirit in convicting, awakening and regenerating sinners. Being born again is not the result of a mere “decision” or “commitment” as many in evangelicalism understand it today – but rather it is a momentous event in which, upon repentance and faith in Christ, dead sinners are divinely quickened. The meaning, source, manner and nature of this new birth are all explained in detail (Message preached 24th Sept 2015)
The Holy Spirit and the Life of Christ (44 min)
Gordon Stewart preaches on the Holy Spirit in relation to the person and work of Christ. Basing his comments on Isaiah 42:1-7, Gordon outlines the perfect manhood and ministry of the Lord Jesus as the One anointed by the Holy Spirit. Never was there a man more controlled by, led by and full of the Holy Spirit than Christ! Particular attention is paid to the temptation of Christ in the wilderness and His triumph over Satan in the power of…
The Deity and Personality of the Holy Spirit (34 min)
Marcus Hall preaches on the deity and personality of the Holy Spirit. He takes a survey of these two vital subjects through the Bible, showing that the Holy Spirit is a person not just an influence; a distinct person in the Trinity but nevertheless coequal and co-eternal with the Father and the Son; and characterised therefore by omniscience, omnipotence and omnipresence (Message preached 3rd Sept 2015)
Why Prayer and Worship Matter (47 min)
Daniel Rudge preaches on the importance of communion with God in prayer, praise and worship. He outlines the priority, privilege, purpose, period, pattern, place and power of prayer. At the end of his message Daniel helpfully touches on the problem of what we sometimes call “unanswered” prayer (Message preached 13th Aug 2015)
Why Holiness Matters (37 min)
After defining what holiness is, Peter Scarsbrook preaches on “Why holiness matters”. This is a vital and wide ranging message that examines the need for holiness in all spheres of life. Peter gives numerous relevant Biblical examples in his message as he outlines helpful scriptural advice and instruction on this neglected subject (Message preached 6th Aug 2015)
