Sermons on Doctrinal Subjects (Page 2)

Sermons on Doctrinal Subjects (Page 2)

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 leaf or an egg, is misleading and…

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)

Why the Assembly Matters (50 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on “Why the assembly matters”. After defining what a local assembly is, Mervyn outlines three major reasons why the local assembly is so important. Firstly, it is the habitation of God, God’s dwelling place. Secondly, it is the handiwork of God. Thirdly, it is the herald of the truth of God – it exists as the pillar and ground of truth (Message preached 30th July 2015)

Why the Gospel Matters (42 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on “Why the gospel matters”. He outlines a number of features of the gospel that flow from the gospel message’s divine origin: its dignity, its authority, its potency, its verity, its exclusivity, its eternality and its solemnity (Message preached 23rd July 2015)

The Assembly – A Gathering Like No Other (42 min)

PART 5 – Tom West preaches on the uniqueness of the local assembly. He stresses the non-negotiable nature of the doctrine of the local New Testament church and highlights its preciousness to God. Precious because it belongs to Christ, because Christ is there, because it speaks of Christ and because it is a home for those who belong to Christ. (Message preached 5th Feb 2015)

Salvation – A Blessing Like No Other (38 min)

PART 4 – Michael Penfold preaches on the incomparable blessing of salvation, that eclipses every other blessing known to man. It is unique in a 7-fold way: in its means, scope, value, character, effect, terms and outcome. Nothing in this world comes close to the altogether wonderful blessing of salvation through Jesus Christ. (Message preached 29th Jan 2015)

Christ – A Saviour Like No Other (43 min)

PART 3 – David Castles preaches on the uniqueness of Christ, viewing His place in prophecy, society, history and eternity. It takes 4 separate gospels to begin to unfold the greatness of Him who is a King like no other, a servant like no other, a man like no other and a Son like no other. (Message preached 22nd Jan 2015)

Man – A Creature Like No Other (46 min)

PART 2 – Mervyn Hall preaches on the uniqueness of man. Man is not an “advanced but insignificant ape”; rather he is the pinnacle of God’s creation, having been given dominion over it in Eden’s garden. The stars and the mountains declare the glory of God, but man bears the image of God! (Message preached 15th Jan 2015)

The Holy Spirit in Romans (41 min)

Norman Mellish preaches on references to the Holy Spirit in the epistle to the Romans. Starting in Chapter 5 and concluding in Chapter 8, he develops the teaching of Paul with regard to the Holy Spirit being the power for Christian living and the One who bears witness with our spirits that we are the children of God – and if children, then heirs! (Message preached 4th Dec 2014)

The Holy Spirit in Galatians (40 min)

Norman Mellish preaches on the references to the Holy Spirit in the epistle to the Galatians. We discover that all believers receive the Holy Spirit at the point of conversion, leaving no need to “tarry for the second blessing”. Mr Mellish was in the Pentecostal movement for 5 years and speaks on these issues with a special interest (Message preached 27th Nov 2014)

The Mystery of the Rapture (26 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the “mystery of the rapture”. He explains that though the “resurrection at the last day” was not a mystery during Paul’s time, what happens to living people when the Lord returns certainly was. Paul reveals this “secret” – living saints will be changed and given glorified bodies like the Saviour’s (Message preached 16th Mar 2014)

The Mystery of Israel’s Blindness (22 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the “mystery of Israel’s blindness”. He explains that Israel’s current national hardening and blindness is neither universal in its extent (individual Jews are still being saved) nor final in its duration (the nation of Israel will yet be restored and brought into Millennial blessing). Rom 11:25 is seen to be the death knell of amillennialism (Message preached 23rd Feb 2014)

The Mystery of the Kingdom (25 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the “mystery of the kingdom”. He distinguishes both between the kingdom and the church, and between the concepts of the “universal” and “mediatorial kingdom”. He takes a journey through the 8 parables of the kingdom in Matt 13 outlining their relevance to God’s kingdom programme. A helpful chart accompanies this message (Message preached 16th Feb 2014)

The Mystery of the One Body, the Church (26 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the “mystery of the one body”. He asks the Who, When, What, How and Why of the “mystery” that sees Jews and Gentiles becoming fellow heirs, fellow members of the body of Christ and fellow partakers of all the associated blessings. The church is not a continuation of Israel – it is something entirely new (Message preached 2nd Feb 2014)

The Mysteries of Scripture – Introduction (26 min)

Mervyn Hall introduces the important subject of “the mysteries of scripture”. He explains what a Biblical “mystery” is and outlines 10 of them from the New Testament under 4 headings – the purpose, power, produce and patience of God. (Message preached 26th Jan 2014)

Priests vs Bishops (30 min)

Mervyn Hall traces the meaning of the words ‘priest’ and ‘bishop’ and shows that the ‘religious view’ is far from the biblical truth. He underlines that priesthood in the New Testament is not linked to genealogy, gender or gift, but is something bestowed on all Christians; while the role of a bishop is undertaken by those who are spiritually mature and shepherd minded (Message preached 7th July 2013)

Personal Devotion, Prayer and Bible Reading (70 min)

Ian Jackson preaches on the biggest thing in the Christian life – a personal consistent walk with the Lord, through prayer and Bible reading. As well as giving helpful hints on the practical side of prayer and reading, he outlines the vital need for devotion and the importance of the Word in our lives, for instruction, growth, guidance, sanctification and discernment (Message preached 9th Feb 2012)

Day of Christ vs The Day of the Lord (27 min)

Mervyn Hall distinguishes between the “day of the Lord” and the “day of Christ”. In doing so he outlines 4 major “days” of scripture: the day of man (now), the day of the Lord, the day of Christ, and the day of God (the eternal state). He outlines the subjects, the sphere, the scope and the sequence of these days  (Message preached 30th June 2013)

Conclusion – Things That Differ (27 min)

Michael Penfold concludes the series with a look at some fine distinctions in the Bible, such as, ‘the second man’ and ‘the last Adam’; ‘the righteousness of God’, and ‘righteousness from God’; ‘the fulness of time’ and ‘the fulness of times’; ‘the age to come’ and ‘the ages to come’ etc. (Message preached 14th July 2013)

Hades vs Gehenna (21 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the difference between “hell” (hades) and the “lake of fire” (gehenna). The former is temporary and for souls; the latter eternal for “body and soul”. He also deals with the errors of soul sleep and annihilationism. In closing he urges the continued preaching of eternal punishment, quoting from Jonathan Edwards sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” as an example (Message preached 23rd June 2013)

The Judgment Seat vs The Great White Throne (29 min)

Mervyn Hall expounds on the distinction between between the judgment seat of Christ for believers, which takes place in heaven after the rapture of the church, and the great white throne for the wicked dead, which takes place after the Millennium, at the time of the world’s end. He also deals with the “judgment of the living nations” at the end of the tribulation (Message preached 16th June 2013)

The First vs the Second Resurrection (25 min)

Michael Penfold distinguishes between the first and second resurrections. The choice between a-millennialism and pre-millennialism can be rightly said to hang on this crucial question. Four proofs are given that there are two future separate physical resurrections of the dead. These resurrections are separated by 1,000 literal years (Message preached 9th June 2013)

Tribulation vs the Great Tribulation (26 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the distinction between personal tribulation and “prophetic tribulation”. That is, the trials of Christians here and now, compared with “the great tribulation” that occurs during Daniel’s 70th week, after the rapture of the church. He helpfully distinguishes between the first and second halves of the tribulation as well (Message preached 2nd June 2013)

The Rapture vs the Manifestation (24 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the distinctions between the rapture of the church on the one hand and the Lord’s second coming to earth on the other. He explains the difference between pre-, post- and a-Millennialism. He also distinguishes between pre- and post-tribulationism, contending that the church will not go through the tribulation (Message preached 26th May 2013)

Male and Female Roles in the Local Assembly (23 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the different roles of men and women in a local New Testament assembly. He discusses the distinctions in role, remit and responsibility that are outlined in passages such as 1 Corinthians Ch 14 and 1 Timothy Ch 2. The topics of subjection vs authority and silence vs speaking are examined in the light of scripture (Message preached 12th May 2013)

The Church vs the Kingdom (26 min)

PART 20 – Michael Penfold preaches on the distinction between the kingdom and the church. He explains the two aspects of the Kingdom of God – the “universal” kingdom, and the “mediatorial” kingdom and traces their history from Genesis to Revelation. Is there a difference between the “kingdom of God” and the “kingdom of heaven”? Are Christians of the present day in the kingdom? These and other questions are addressed (Message preached 5th May 2013)

The Church vs Israel (27 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the distinctions between “the church” and “Israel”. This is one of the most vital distinctions in scripture. The church is neither the same as Israel, nor a continuation of Israel, nor a replacement of Israel, nor the “spiritual Israel”. Distinctions in dispensation, dimension, design and duty are all outlined (Message preached 14th April 2013)

The Body of Christ vs the Local Assembly (20 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the distinctions between the “church which is His body” (Matt 16, Eph 5) and the “church of God at…” (a local assembly, Matt 18, 1 Cor 1:2). These are the only two aspects of “the church” that the New Testament envisages and a clear understanding of this fact will preserve from denominational confusion (Message preached 7th April 2013)

The Meaning of Baptism (22 min)

David Gilliland preaches a baptism message which clearly outlines the command, confession, “copy” and challenge of baptism. This is a brief but succinct explanation of baptism with a strong gospel thrust (Message preached 31st Mar 2013)

Baptism in the Spirit vs Filling of the Spirit (26 min)

Michael Penfold distinguishes between the “baptism in the Spirit” and the “filling of the Spirit”. He points out that while the baptism in the Spirit is not a post-conversion “second experience” that believers should look for, the filling of the Spirit is something constantly expected of all Christians (Message preached 24th March 2013)

Backsliding vs Apostasy (23 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the difference between “backsliding” and “apostasy”. Though strictly an Old Testament term, backsliding is a self-centred condition of heart that can be experienced by genuine believers. Apostasy however, is a deliberate, wilful turning away from the understood truth of Christ and His gospel, and is a sin only ever committed by unbelievers – people who were never truly saved (e.g. Heb 6:4-6, 2 Pet 2:22). (Message preached 10th Mar 2013)

Judicial vs Parental Forgiveness (29 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the difference between “judicial forgiveness”, which a sinner receives once for all at conversion, and “parental forgiveness” which the Christian receives throughout life as sins are confessed regularly. The former forms a “union” between the sinner and Christ; the latter restores “communion” between the child of God and his Father, through the ministry of Christ his high priest and advocate (Message preached 3rd Mar 2013)

Natural, Carnal and Spiritual (25 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the distinctions between the three categories of persons in 1 Cor 2-3: “the natural man”, “the carnal man” and “the spiritual man”. He explains that, in the context, “the carnal man” refers not to a set category of “backslidden Christians” who show no evidence of salvation, but to believers in fellowship in the assembly at Corinth who were thinking and acting according to human wisdom (Message preached 17th Feb 2013)

State vs Standing (30 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the distinction between the Christian’s “state” and his “standing”. That is to say, “What I am in Christ positionally” on the one hand, and “Where I am in my daily experience and walk with the Lord” on the other. This is a vital teaching for a believer to grasp and one that permeates the epistles of the New Testament (Message preached 10th Feb 2013)

The Old Man vs the Flesh (22 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the distinction between “the old man” and “the flesh”. From its 3 references in Rom 6, Eph 4 and Col 3 “the old man” is seen to be what we were in Adam prior to conversion (our “old standing”), whereas the “flesh” is the evil principle within (our “old nature”) (Message preached 3rd Feb 2013)

Son of God vs Child of God (27 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the distinction between the Biblical concepts of the Christian as a “child of God” and a “son of God”. He distinguishes between being born into the family of God as a child by regeneration, and being placed in the family of God as a son by adoption (Message preached Jan 20th 2013)

Justification by Faith vs by Works (24 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the distinction between justification by faith (Romans 3) and justification by works (James 2). He explains why “faith alone” in Romans is a good thing, while “faith alone” in James is a bad thing. In summary, faith alone justifies, but the faith that justifies is never alone (Message preached 6th Jan 2013)

Justification vs Propitiation (28 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the difference between propitiation – the basis of salvation – and justification, redemption and reconciliation, the blessings of salvation. He explains that through the death of Christ, God has been propitiated and as a result sinners can be justified, redeemed and reconciled (Message preached 9th Dec 2012)

Under Law vs Under Grace (28 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on the difference between being “under law” and “under grace”. He exposes an error of Reformed theology which maintains that Christians are still under the law for sanctification, though not for salvation. The Christian’s true “rule of life” is explained (Message preached 2nd Dec 2012)

Now Unto the King Eternal (46 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the glorious doxology in 1 Tim 1:17, “Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” He exalts God and His attributes of sovereignty, eternality, incorruptibility and invisibility (Message preached Nov 29th 2012) (Photo: Windsor Castle, Berkshire, England).

Grace vs Works (28 min)

Mervyn Hall outlines the difference between grace and works. He explains that grace and works are mutually exclusive with regards to personal salvation. This is a vital topic that is widely misunderstood in the world and within Christendom (Message preached 25th Nov 2012)

Sin in Principle vs Sins Personal (28 min)

Michael Penfold outlines the differences between sin in principle and individual personal sins. What I am in Adam (sinful self, the root) and what I have done (sins, the fruit) must be distinguished. Adam’s sin introduced death; our own sins lead to hell. Sins may be forgiven, but sin in principle can only ever be condemned (Message preached 18th Nov 2012)

The Wisdom of God vs the Wisdom of Men (29 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the vital need to distinguish between the wisdom of God and the wisdom of men. The entire Christian worldview flows from a proper understanding of this distinction which Mervyn outlines from 1 Cor 1:17-25. A foundational message (Message preached 11th Nov 2012)

Faith vs the Faith (25 min)

Michael Penfold outlines the difference between personal faith and the faith, the sacred body of truth known as the apostles’ doctrine, and ultimately the entire Bible. Personal faith, however, is that trust and confidence exercised savingly in Christ at conversion and thereafter daily as the Christian walks by faith. True faith is contrasted to false faith (Message preached 4th Nov 2012)

Introduction – Things that Differ (26 min)

Michael Penfold introduces a series of messages that will focus on the vital need to distinguish between “things that differ” in the Bible. He gives 4 examples of common yet confusing errors that stem from failing to differentiate between, for example, the Biblical concepts of “standing and state” and “the church and the kingdom” (Message preached 21st Oct 2012)

Preparing and Structuring Gospel Sermons (25 min)

Michael Penfold gives guidance on preparing, structuring and delivering gospel messages. He describes the three main categories of gospel sermons, and the three essential parts each message must have. He gives pointers as to how to effectively preach with repentance and faith as the desired result (Message preached 16th Oct 2011).

Holding Your Audience’s Attention (27 min)

Michael Penfold gives Biblical counsel on gospel preaching and holding an audience’s attention. He describes the necessary attitude and bearing of the preacher, a man who will feel the burden of the message, and whose preaching must be scriptural, serious, simple and structured (Message preached 9th Oct 2011)

Eternal Security (31 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the eternal security of the believer. He deals with the oft-raised objection, “If a person is ‘once saved always saved’, doesn’t that mean they can live as they like and still go to heaven”? (Message preached 25th Sept 2011)

How Can I be Sure I am Saved? (27 min)

Michael Penfold addresses the question “How can I be sure I am saved?” He explains that the work of Christ secures salvation, the word of God settles salvation and the witness of the Spirit seals salvation. Blessed assurance – Christ’s work for us, God’s word to us and the Spirit’s witness in us. (Message preached 18th Sept 2011)

What Does it Mean to “Come to Christ”? (22 min)

From the parable of the sower, Michael Penfold preaches on what it means to truly “come to Christ”. Not a physical act, nor a mere mental act, not a mystical act, nor even a mere “decision”, but a definite resting on the person and work of Christ for salvation (Message preached 11th Sept 2011)

What Does it Mean to Believe? (26 min)

Mervyn Hall addresses the question, “What does it mean to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ?” He explains the concept of “receiving Christ” and outlines what is involved in the sinner trusting in Christ for salvation (Message preached 4th Sept 2011)

What is Biblical Repentance? (24 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the vital subject of “repentance”. A definition, the doctrine and the demands of repentance. By way of illustration he contrasts the repentance of the prodigal son with the mere regret of Judas. (Recorded 31st July 2011)

What is Conviction of Sin? (24 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on “conviction of sin”. He seeks to explain what it is, and what it is not, so that as witnesses, preachers and parents, we can be discerning in dealing with souls (Message preached 17th July 2011)

The Exclusivity of the Gospel (29 min)

Mervyn Hall preaches on the exclusive claims of the gospel. He deals with the issue of whether people who have never heard the gospel can still get to heaven. Rob Bell’s universalist book “Love Wins” is addressed, as is pluralism and inclusivism in general (Message preached 3rd July 2011)

What is Redemption? (28 min)

Mervyn Hall expounds the truth of redemption, which he defines as “to deliver in full by buying back”. Different Bible root words are examined as the truth of sinners being set free from the slave market of sin is examined (Message preached 19th June 2011)

What is Justification by Faith? (24 min)

Michael Penfold preaches on “justification”. He clears up the Reformed confusion which says that the righteous life of Christ is imputed to the sinner, explaining instead that “righteousness from God” is imputed on the basis of the death of Christ (Message preached 5th June 2011)

What is Propitiation? (26 min)

Michael Penfold expounds how the gospel meets the real need of the sinner – cleansing, justification, reconciliation etc. – all of which are based on the propitiation made at the cross (Message given 29th May 2011)

The Cross, Blood and Death of Christ (24 min)

Mervyn Hall outlines the doctrinal meaning behind the cross, the blood and the death of Christ. Some distinctions between these themes are explained, but care is taken to show that they form a glorious whole as to the finished work of Christ (Message preached 22nd May 2011)