Sermons on The Christian Life (Page 3)
Sitting Exams in God’s School (28 min)
When we were saved, we not only became sons in God’s family, but students in God’s school. Every so often throughout our lives there’s a test – an exam – and through these various tests and trials, God proves us and refines us, to be more like His Son. David Gilliland looks at 6 tests in the history of God’s people in the Old Testament and draws lessons for us today. The tests are: the Moriah test, the Marah test,…
A God Who Is Able (28 min)
Faced with being thrown alive into a “burning fiery furnace”, the three Hebrews in Daniel Ch 3 told King Nebuchadnezzar that “God is able to deliver us”. What kind of faith is it that believes in a “God who is able” even in such extreme circumstances? Andrew Ussher passes on an encouraging word to remind us that in every difficult, trying and worrying situation in which we find ourselves, God is always able. Readings: Dan 3:8-18, Heb 11:17-19, 2 Tim…
When Life Doesn’t Seem Fair (30 min)
Eric Parmenter passes on a word of encouragement from John Ch 11, a chapter in which two sisters, Mary and Martha, are mourning the death of their brother. Their experience highlights 4 problems believers often face in life: the problem of suffering, the problem of delayed answers to prayer, the problem of ‘inequalities’ (perceived unfairness), and finally, the problem of the silence of God. Reading: John 20:30-31 (Message preached at the Vancouver Thanksgiving Conference 2007)
What Time Is It? (44 min)
David Gilliland asks “What time is it?” Are you aware exactly what kind of age we live in and where we are in the purposes and counsels of God? We are in an age unique in its moral guilt in that, due to the crucifixion of Christ, it is the “present evil age”, or as David translates it “the now age”. How should we live in “the now age”? A challenging message full of insight and interest. Readings: 1 Tim…
Dealing with Darts of Doubts (14 min)
Colin Hutchison preaches on how to deal with “darts of doubt”. He highlights 4 men in the Bible who, through various experiences in life sovereignly allowed by the Lord, came into a place of doubt: a prophet (John the Baptist), a disciple (Peter), a judge (Gideon) and a priest (Jeremiah). A short but most helpful message. (Message preached in Belfast 2013)
Staying Close to Christ (18 min)
Clark Logan preaches on the fact that “there is nothing more important on the pathway home to heaven than staying close to Christ”. From the Gospel of John he looks at 5 pictures of close fellowship with the Lord: “In His hand” (security), “on His breast” (intimacy), “at His feet” (dignity), “by His side” (loyalty), and “in His steps” (responsibility). In His hand we trust; on His breast we lean; at His feet we worship; by His side we stand;…
Robert McIlwaine – Have You Lost Your Joy? (21 min)
Robert McIlwaine (1925-2021) preaches on the joy of salvation, and the oft-felt reality of discouragement in the Christian life. Have you lost your joy? Are you feeling down and disheartened? Robert takes up the prayer of David in Psalm 51:12-13 “Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation” in a message that will lift your soul and point you to the fount of living waters. (Message preached at Pugwash Junction conference in Nova Scotia, Canada, 2014)
Not for Sale (31 min)
Jonathan Procopio preaches on the story of Ahab’s violent theft of a vineyard whose owner, Naboth, said was “not for sale”. Two lessons stand out in the passage: 1. The danger of covetouness (Ahab), and 2. the duty of commitment (Naboth). Jonathan makes weighty and challenging practical applications from each aspect of the story. Readings: 1 Kings 21:1-7, 14-15 (Message preached in Pope Road Gospel hall, Prince Edward Island, Canada, 2016)
Faith That Works (43 min)
Jonathan Procopio preaches on the life of a major character in the book of Joshua: the wall-dwelling woman of Jericho, Rahab. Rarely taken up as a subject for ministry, Rahab’s life contains many lessons in faith – “faith that works”. She even gets a few mentions in the New Testament! Jonathan brings out numerous helpful practical lessons from the story of her life for our benefit. Readings: Matt 1:5-6a, Heb 11:31, Jas 2:25, Josh 2:1-3, 8-11 (Message preached on Prince…
The Growth of a Soul (33 min)
David Gilliland preaches on the 7 comings in the book of Ruth that plot what he calls “the growth of a soul”. Are you growing in your soul? Are you making progress? This message will challenge you to press on and develop in character and testimony for God, as you see Ruth coming to the field, the fold, the feast, the floor etc. Readings: Ruth 1:19-22, 2:2-3, 7, 11-2, 14, 3:1-3, 6-7, 14-18, 4:11-12 (Message preached at Sussex Conference, Canada,…
Albert Ramsay – Have You Lost Your Song? (18 min)
Asaph was a singer, but in Psalm 73 he seems to have lost his song. Have you lost yours? Albert Ramsay (1913-1993) takes up the Psalm in three sections: “out of the sanctuary”, “in the sanctuary” and “after the sanctuary”, and concludes that “sanctuary men are singing men”. Reading: Psalm 73 (Message preached in Larne in the late 1980’s)
The Circuit of the Sun (20 min)
Preaching from the 19th Psalm, David Gilliland compares God’s revelation in the sky with God’s revelation in the Bible: as to its vastness, its variety, its voice, its value, and its verity. Mr Gilliland makes a second comparison: he compares the daily circuit of the sun with the journey of the One, our Lord Jesus Christ, who came from God and went to God (Message given at Sussex Gospel Hall conference, Canada, 2017)
Fear Not (31 min)
Struggling with discouragement, anxiety, despair or worry? Feel like throwing in the towel? Are the mountains huge, the skies dark, and the rivers deep? Andrew Ussher preaches on the expression “fear not” and expounds 7 simple clear reasons why we do not need to give into despair and anxiety. Reading: Isaiah 43.1-5 (Message given in Sussex Gospel Hall conference, New Brunswick, Canada, 2019)
Why Some Christians Don’t Make It (27 min)
Looking back over many years of Christian experience, John Grant (1942-2020) ponders why so many Christians he knew in his youth “didn’t make it”. So, why didn’t they become useful, fruitful, effective Christians? From the book of Exodus Mr Grant speaks on 4 things the devil wants every Christian to do, before turning to Acts 2 and contrasting that with 4 things God wants every Christian to do. This is a very challenging and helpful message, full of practical exhortation…
No More Mediocre Christianity (33 min)
Be sure to take 32 minutes of your day now to listen intently to John Grant preaching a powerful, challenging and stirring message on the urgent need for all of us to be done with shallow, mediocre Christianity and give our lives wholeheartedly to the Lord. It’s time to stop going down the slippery slope of conformity to the world and to be, instead, transformed to be like Christ. Our bodies should be presented to God (Rom 12.1-3), and pressed…
God Wants your Heart (29 min)
In 2011 at the age of 74, 54 years saved, Albert Hull (1936-2015) preached at the Toronto Easter Conference on “God wants your heart”. In a world of deception, darkness and division, God has called us in salvation to be dedicated and devoted to him for the rest of our lives. Mr Hull used selfless, sacrificial actions of the mighty men who brought water for David to drink to illustrate his point. A challenging message from a warm-hearted earnest preacher.…
Depression – Its Causes and Its Cure (40 min)
David West speaks on some of the causes for, and also the cure for, depression. After looking at a number of relevant proverbs of Solomon, Mr West traces numerous cases of pain, loss and depression in the Bible. Gleaning helpful lessons from the experiences of others, Mr West then looks at the cure for depression as he discusses what the Bible has to say about the Christian mind, especially from Paul’s epistle to the Philippians. Readings: Prov 3:7, 4:23, 5:8-12,…
Friendship with the World is Enmity with God (40 min)
Jim Wishart preaches an earnest and faithful message on the believer’s relationship with “the world”. He defines what the Bible means when it speaks of “the world” in a moral and dispensational sense. He takes a brief tour from Eden to the cross, before outlining the Bible’s teaching on how the believer should be separate from the world and devoted to Christ. Readings: John 17:6, 11, 14-21, 1 John 2:15-17, Jas 4:1-4, Gal 6:12-14, 2 Pet 3:10-14, 17-18 (Message preached…
The Assembly Prayer Meeting (44 min)
You will go a long way before you hear a more practical message than this! Peter Orasuk preaches on the local assembly prayer meeting under 5 headings: the conviction of it, the conditions of it, the care found in it, the consideration needed in it, and the contribution to it by the sisters. Stirring stuff! Readings: 1 Cor 1:2, 1 Tim 2:1-12 (Message given in Ontario, Canada)
What is “the World”? (48 min)
Phil Coulson preaches on the neglected subject of “the world” and the believer’s relation to it. After providing some technical information about the various words used in the New Testament for “world”, Phil deals with 4 items. The believer is “out of the world” in salvation; “in the world” in situation; “not of the world” in sanctification, and “into the world” in service. A helpful, practical and challenging word of ministry. Readings: John 17:4-5, Eph 2:1-2, Rev 12:7-9. (Message preached…
3 Dangers When Leaving Home (38 min)
Elton Fairfield addresses the issue of “leaving home” and what young people will face at University and in the workplace. He preaches using 3 headings: “a lesson in immorality” (Joseph, Gen 39), “a lesson in identity” (Esther, Est 2-4), and “a lesson in idolatry” (Daniel, Dan 1:1-8). How will you cope with Fresher’s week, the internet, relationships, meeting attendance and so much more when the time comes to “leave home”? Elton gives helpful, succinct and plain advice that will benefit…
The Influence of One Man (45 min)
Peter Orasuk (1948-2005) preaches a powerful and challenging message on the power of influence to affect others, using the lives and examples of two men: Peter, whose discouragement and departure affected others negatively (John 21:1-3) and Joshua, whose godly desire and determination affected others positively (Josh 24:14-19). As was his habit, Peter Orasuk wove numerous unforgettable stories into his message illustrate his point. He makes use of Rom 14:7 “No man lives to himself” (admittedly out of context) to make…
Peter Orasuk – Restoration (35 min)
Peter Orasuk (1948-2005) is best known for his testimony, but he was also a gifted encourager in ministry! Murray McCandless wrote of him: “After conversion, Peter became an avid student of the Word and continued until his health started to steal his ability to concentrate. He spent hours in it, enjoyed it, shared it, and became a channel of blessing to those who listened to his ministry. I understand the Word of God reveals itself to our hearts, but I…
An Appreciation of Propitiation (30 min)
Jim Allen preaches on the fundamental Bible doctrine of “propitiation”. What is it? How, when and where was propitiation made? He then moves on to discuss the practical issue of sin in the life of a Christian. Do I need a fresh application of Christ’s propitiatory work at the cross each time I sin? No! I need a fresh appreciation of it! A most useful message giving positional and practical teaching relative to a believer’s position before God. Readings: Luke…
The Recovery of a Lost Smile (41 min)
David Gilliland preaches on Psalm 39:13 which, he explains, carries the sense of “O spare me, that I may smile again”. After some introductory remarks about people who are always smiling, some who never smile, and others who smile on the outside but whose heart isn’t smiling, David focuses his attention on two questions: “What makes Christians lose their smile?” and “How can Christians get their smile back”? He draws answers to these questions from Psalm 39 and 40. Reading:…
Standing for God in the Crises of Life (30 min)
Jack Hay preaches on the stand for God taken by the “three Hebrew children” – Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego – in Daniel Ch 3. After some introductory remarks about the background of the passage, and a brief excursus drawing a list of interesting comparisons between Daniel 3 and Revelation 13, Jack draws numerous challenging practical lessons from this story. Are you willing to stand for God in the crises of life? You will need to be marked by “purpose of…
The Landmark of the Prayer Meeting (18 min)
Jon Procopio preaches a rousing message about the importance of the assembly prayer meeting. In the first 8 minutes of his message he speaks about the prohibitions in Prov 22:28 and 23:10 against “removing the landmarks” and makes the point that the first landmark many Christians remove in their lives is attendance at the assembly prayer meeting. The vital part that the assembly prayer meeting plays in the life of the Christian and the local assembly is highlighted powerfully in…
Overcoming Temptation: Maintaining Holiness (28 min)
Dan Shutt preaches a vital, helpful and dignified message on the subject of holiness in the face of sexual temptation. Working from the narrative of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife, Mr Shutt outlines the danger of moral failure facing all of us – online, in the media, at work – and gives pertinent warnings and exhortations for us to “be holy, for I the Lord am holy”. Readings: Gen 39:1-4, 7-12, 20-23, 41:38-40, 1 Cor 6:18-20 (Message preached at the Toronto…
Bringing Forth Fruit in Old Age (26 min)
Dan Shutt preaches a tender and heart-warming word for older Christians, to encourage them to continue to bring forth fruit into old age. Are you feeling tired after decades of service? Feeling useless after being able-bodied and busy for the Lord for so long? Well, here’s a word from the Psalms to strengthen your faith and steady your soul. After some introductory remarks Dan uses the life story of Mordecai to illustrate his ministry. Readings: Psa 71:5-9, 14, 17-18, 20-21,…
Trusting God When He Can’t Be Traced (42 min)
Albert McShane (1914-2002) preached on lessons to be learned from unexplained trials. Taking up the story of Job, Mr. McShane describes a man who wished he’d never been born, or at least wished he could now be finished with life. The thing that he feared had arrived – tragedy, and unexplained loss of family, possessions and health. Added to this were the wounds inflicted by his friends. Yet, having lost everything, Job exclaims, “Though He slay me, still I will…
What Is Life All About? (32 min)
In a message directed to the hearts of the young, Michael Penfold preaches on the fundamental question facing us all – “What is life all about?”. What is my life about? He answers this question with three negatives: 1. Life’s not about things, 2. Life’s not about me, and 3. Life’s not about now. Life is about living for Christ and his interests, in the light of eternity! To understand these things and put them into practice is the constant…
Minding Your Mind in the Minefield of Life (48 min)
Sandy Higgins preaches a helpful and challenging message on what the Bible has to say about the neglected subject of “the Christian’s mind”. How do we make it through the minefield of modern culture and keep our minds pure, focussed and uncluttered? How do we handle the negative influence on our minds of world’s music, its impure images and much else that bombards us every day? Listen as Dr Higgins give wise counsel and exhortation about a “minding your mind…
3 Tools for a Successful Christian Life (25 min)
Dan Shutt preaches on three essential tools for a successful Christian life. 1. Living daily in the presence of God (Gen 5:21-24); 2. Having a low view of self (Heb 12:1-2), and 3. Making the Word of God central to one’s life (Psa 119:9-11). (Message preached in Stout, Iowa, 2011)
Sanctification and Social Media (44 min)
Phil Coulson preaches from Gal 1:5 on the purpose of Christ giving Himself for us – “to deliver us from this present evil age”. In other words, we were saved primarily to be set apart to “Himself” from the world and its ways. God’s will for us is sanctification/holiness – “Be ye holy, for I am holy”. Mr Coulson then applies this principle to the issue of screen time, social media and the online distractions and addictions of the digital…
Bible Ships – Lordship (29 min)
PART 5 – In the fifth message of a series on “Bible Ships” (fellowship, worship, discipleship, leadership, lordship), Eugene Higgins takes up the subject of Christ’s “Lordship”. Mr Higgins points out that the Lordship of Christ applies in our personal, business, assembly, and family lives. His two headings are: 1. the exalted name, and 2. the exclusive claim. He builds the bulk of his message around a number of people in the Bible who used the expression “My Lord” and…
Bible Ships – Leadership (37 min)
PART 4 – In the fourth message of a series on “Bible Ships” (fellowship, worship, discipleship, leadership, lordship), Eugene Higgins takes up the subject of “assembly leadership” and gives challenging and insightful exhortations to elders from the Word of God. Using a number of Biblical illustrations, Mr Higgins looks at the danger of elders being stern but not scriptural; soft instead of sympathetic; and secluded instead of sensitive. Plenty of food for thought as helpful guidance is given for effective…
Christianity in the Information Age (30 min)
Dan Shutt speaks on Christianity in the information age. “Is technology good or bad?” is the wrong question: the issue is how we handle the technology that comes our way. Mr Shutt acknowledges that the internet has brought some good possibilities, but he then highlights 5 specific problems. These are: the theological issue, the time issue, the truth issue, the temptation issue, and the too-much-information issue. This is a powerful and relevant message for old and young, parents and children,…
Bible Ships – Discipleship (40 min)
PART 3 – In the third message of a series on “Bible Ships” (fellowship, worship, discipleship, leadership, lordship), Eugene Higgins takes up the subject of “discipleship” under three headings: its commencement, its characteristics and its culmination. A disciple is “one who follows in order to learn”. Are you a disciple of the Lord Jesus? An insightful challenging message. Readings: Luke 6:13, 14:25-33, Acts 9:10, 23-26, 36, 16:1-2, 21:15-16 (Message preached in Phoenix, USA, Jan 2005)
Bible Ships – Worship (44 min)
PART 2 – In the second message of a series on “Bible Ships” (fellowship, worship, discipleship, leadership, lordship), Eugene Higgins takes up the subject of “worship”, emphasising the priesthood of all believers, and that “worship is not a gift”! He highlights the privilege, the priority and the place of worship, before giving 4 lovely pictures of worship in the Bible. Mr Higgins give a lot of practical help in this message to help us when we are gathered together to…
Bible Ships – Fellowship (39 min)
PART 1 – In the first message of a series on “Bible Ships” (fellowship, worship, discipleship, leadership, lordship), Eugene Higgins takes up the subject of “fellowship”. While “friendship” is based around the concept of “like”, the Biblical concept of “assembly fellowship” is based on “likeness”. That is, fellowship is a sharing in common in doctrine and practice. It isn’t something we agree to have; it’s something we have because we agree. In this helpful message, Eugene outlines the meaning, measure…
Is It Right? (42 min)
Is it right to dance? Is it right to play cards? Is it right to watch movies, to smoke, or to drink socially? These questions come up repeatedly. So, how do we answer from the Bible? In this message Michael Penfold outlines a 3-part filter through which to run tricky questions: 1. biblical precepts, 2. biblical practices and 3. biblical principles. He then outlines 6 principles by which to come to a decision on such matters before the Lord. A…
Learning to say “No” (30 min)
John Dennison preaches from Genesis Ch 39 on the importance of being able to say “no”. With the world in our pockets, never has there been a time when it’s more important to be able to say “no” to that which dishonours the Lord and is not for His glory. John brings numerous powerful and practical lessons from the life of Joseph and how he overcame in the face of constant and fierce temptation to give in and sin against…
Carefree, Careful and Caring Christianity (27 min)
Andrew Ussher brings guidance and strength from the Word of God to anxious worried hearts in an encouraging word of ministry on carefree, careful and caring Christianity. We all suffer from worries and cares; the question is, how do we cope with them? What should we do when we are overwhelmed with anxiety and fear? How should we respond in a way that honours the Word and magnifies our Lord? Readings: 1 Cor 12:25-26, Eph 5:15-16, Phil 2:19-21, 4:5b-7, Titus…
Hold Fast Till I Come (22 min)
Eugene Higgins preaches a powerful message on the exhortation in Revelation 2:25, “Hold fast till I come”. In a day of difficulty and “temptation to let go” Eugene presses the exhortation to hold fast to the truth, to strengthen our grip, not to weary in battle, not to relinquish anything. Don’t let go…don’t let go…don’t let go! (Message preached Nov 2014 in Newington, Connecticut, USA)
At Evening Time It Shall Be Light (34 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on the glorious prospect of the Lord’s coming from Zech 14:7 “At evening time it shall be light”. In the midst of the darkness, sorrow and perplexities of this present era, the Christian has a sure and certain hope that all will one day be well – when He comes! A message to encourage, uplift and strengthen. (Message preached at the Sussex Gospel Hall Bible Conference, New Brunswick, Canada, in Oct 2016)
Jimmy Paton – Lessons on Prayer (37 min)
Jimmy Paton (1914-1999) from Ayrshire, Scotland, was converted to Christ at the age of 15. A slater and plasterer by trade, Jimmy was a big man with a soft heart who had a unique gift in the ministry of the Word. Encouraged and greatly helped by men like John Douglas and Willie Trew, Jimmy was much used in instructing the Lord’s people through devotional and practical Bible teaching. When he spoke on the person of Christ, he was especially choice,…
The Prison Prayers of Paul (38 min)
Michael Penfold looks at the prayer life and the 4 “prison prayers” of Paul – a prayer for enlightenment (Eph 1:15-23); a prayer for enablement (Eph 3:14-21); a prayer for enlargement (Phil 1:9-11); and a prayer for enrichment (Col 1:9-14). (Message preached 21st July 2019)
The Lord’s Prayer (45 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on “the Lord’s prayer” under 6 headings. Its scope, setting, shortness (66 words), simplicity, structure and substance. His examination of the Lord’s prayer reveals essential features for all prayer: adoration, submission, petition and confession (Readings: Matt 6:1-8 and Luke 11:2-4) (Message preached 14th July 2019)
The Prayers of Hannah (37 min)
Michael Penfold takes a look at the two prayers of Hannah – her supplication in 1 Samuel Ch 1 and her thanksgiving in Ch 2. Her first prayer was heartfelt, intelligent, reverent and selfless, while her second revealed her appreciation of God’s salvation, His attributes, His sovereignty and His purposes. (Message preached 19th May 2019)
The Prayers of Abraham and Eliezer (44 min)
Mervvn Hall draws out “principles of prayer” from Gen Chs. 18 and 24. Abraham and Eliezer’s prayers teach us 6 features of prayer: that we should pray with priority, comprehensively, confidently, expectantly, continually and Biblically. At the end of his message, in reference to Eliezer’s experience, Mervyn distinguishes between what we need to pray about, and what we don’t (Message preached 12th May 2019)
How to Know The Lord Better (35 min)
Colin Hutchison preaches on 4 people in John’s gospel who “knew the Lord”, even though the world did not know Him. Why did they know the Lord and not others? The servants knew because when Christ said “do” they did it (2:9) The nobleman knew because when Christ said “go” he went (4:53) The blind man knew, because when Christ said “wash” he washed (9:25) Martha knew because when Christ said “remove the obstacle” it was removed (11:22) If we…
The Right Thing in the Right Place (37 min)
Frank Sona takes up the truth of the local assembly from Genesis Ch 22, where Abraham goes to “the place” out of “obedience to God’s Word”. He draws out many lessons from this pivotal day in the life of Abraham – a day that began with obedience and ended with worship (Message preached Apr 22nd 2019)
Even So Send I You (48 min)
After showing how the Upper Room appearance of the Lord in John 20 is a picture of the local assembly, Ian Jackson preaches a powerful and challenging message on how to serve God when He sends us…with a “consecrated heart”, with an “undivided loyalty”, within a “separated pathway”, with a “submissive mind”, and with the “strengthening of the assembly” in view (Message preached in Bicester, Easter 22nd April 2019)
I Sought for a Man (32 min)
Frank Sona brings a challenge from Ezekiel 22:30 where God says “I sought for a man among them that should make up the hedge and stand in the gap before me.” God is looking for holy, separated, dedicated men and women to stand for him in times of difficulty and danger. Will you be that person? (Message preached 21st April 2019)
Pray Without Ceasing (42 min)
From 1 Thess 5:17, “Pray without ceasing”, Ian Jackson preaches on the need for private, fervent, believing prayer in the life of every Christian. “The secret of failure, is failure in secret”. He urges us to be more prayerful and gives guidance on how to address God in prayer (Message preached in Bicester, Easter Apr 20th 2019)
Wilt Thou Not Revive Us Again (39 min)
Frank Sona preaches on Psalm 85:6 – “Wilt thou not revive us again?” He highlights the need for revival and revival’s main features – including obedience to the Word of God, repentance, prayer and reliance on the Lord (Message preached Apr 20th 2019)
The “Bema” – Review, Reward and Revelation (49 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on the topic of the judgment seat of Christ under 6 headings: survey, subjects, scope, schema, schedule, and significance. Three issues in connection with the “bema” are: review, reward and revelation. The significance of the event is 4-fold: a caution, a challenge, a commandment and a comfort. Readings: Rom 14:7-14, 1 Cor 3:9-15, 4:1-5, 2 Cor 5:1-15 (Message preached 23rd Dec 2018)
How the Father Disciplines His Children (30 min)
A message on the topic of “chastening” – God the Father’s loving discipline of His sons, designed to correct our faults and develop our character. Three categories of chastening are outlined: verbal, judicial and developmental. Both the nature and purpose of each one are examined, accompanied by examples from Scripture (Readings: 1 Pet 4:17-18, Rev 3:19, 2 Tim 3:16-17, 1 Cor 11:30-32, Heb 12:4-13). (Message preached 2nd Dec 2018)
The Fashion of the World (43 min)
Michael Penfold preaches on separation from the world in connection with clothing, jewellery, cosmetics, piercing and tattoos. After establishing the fact that the Bible is concerned with the outward appearance of God’s people, Michael outlines 10 scriptural “guiding principles” by which to judge all issues of dress and appearance. Scripture readings: Prov 6:24-25, 7:10, Eze 23:40, 44, 1 Tim 2:8-10, 1 Pet 3:3-4 (Message preached 7th Jun 2018)
Assembly Separation (39 min)
Michael Penfold examines the history, beliefs and influence of two dangerous forces within Christendom – the Ecumenical and Charismatic Movements. Warnings and guidance are given from scripture, combined with an exhortation to “Come out from among them and be separate” (2 Cor 6:17) (Message preached 18th May 2014)
A Forbidden Friendship (37 min)
David West preaches on the command of 1 John 2:15 – “love not the world”. In expounding this topic he poses three questions: 1. What does the Bible mean by the expression “the world”? 2. What are “the things that are in the world”? and 3. What is the relationship of the believer to the world? Explaining that the Greek word “kosmos” indicates “the world system”, David answers the three questions and sounds a call for Christian not to “love…
The Unequal Yoke (37 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on the issue of the “unequal yoke” from 2 Cor 6:13-18, the key NT passage on separation. Mervyn works through the passage using 4 headings; 1. the apostolic authority, 2. the logical argument, 3. the OT analogy and 4. the only action (“Come out”). He applies Paul’s prohibition about the unequal yoke to marital, financial, political and social situations, but cautions against taking the principle to an extreme (Message preached 17th May 2018)
Israel Shall Dwell Alone (38 min)
Tom West preaches on the Israel’s separation as a picture of ours. He takes up the subject under three headings: the strangeness, strength and sufficiency of separation. Israel’s walk and worship were designed to be different to the surrounding nations. “Dwelling alone” and not intermingling meant they remained strong and retained their identity. In this difficult path, God promised to meet all their needs. Readings: Exod 34:11-17, Num 22:1-2, 5-6, 23:7-10, Deut 7:1-6, 17:14-15. (Message preached 10th May 2018)
Separation in Picture and Type (47 min)
Norman Mellish speaks on the topic of separation from various pictures and types in the Old Testament. He draws principles of separation from Genesis Ch 1 and the creation week, from Leviticus 11 and the instructions regarding clean and unclean animals, and from Nehemiah Chs 1-6 where walls were built and the testimony of God was preserved. (Message preached 3rd May 2018)
An Extraordinary Christian Life (25 min)
David Vallance, speaking from Jude v20-23, sets out the Bible’s plan for the believer’s life. He challenges his audience to take responsibility for their Christian life and not treat it as a hobby. His punch line? When it comes to Bible reading, prayer, evangelism, holiness and care for others “Don’t be normal…don’t be mediocre”. A challenging thought-provoking message (Message preached in Bicester, Easter April 1st 2018)
Present Your Bodies (40 min)
David Vallance takes a look at Paul’s challenge in Romans 12 to “present your bodies a living sacrifice”. His challenge? Don’t be conformed to a world that says the material is more important than the spiritual; that the present is more important than the future, and that emotion is more important than truth (Message preached in Bicester, 31st Mar 2018)
The Christian and Gender, Roles and Symbols (66 min)
David Vallance brings Scriptural teaching to bear on topical issues such as equality, feminism, patriarchy, homosexuality and transgenderism. Starting in Genesis 1:27 he expounds the binary nature of gender, and from 1 Tim 2 and 1 Cor 11 explains the different roles God has given men and women, based on the pattern of Christ and His Church. He also explains how the symbols of long/short hair, and covered/uncovered head are to be understood in relation to this foundational topic (Message…
What is Separation? (45 min)
Peter Scarsbrook opens a series of 8 messages on the topic of ‘separation’ and begins by defining what Biblical separation is. He first contrasts it with two unscriptural extremes – isolation, on the one hand, and integration on the other. He then outlines the truth of separation from 2 Cor 6:13-18 before finally pointing to 4 principles that inform a Christian’s separation: 1. The character of God, 2. The cross, 3. The Word of God and 4. The example of…
Movies, Social Media and the Christian (47 min)
Should Christians watch movies? Should Christians be on social media? Michael Penfold applies the timeless principles of the Word of God to these two issues. He discusses content, worldviews, actors, acting and fiction in relation to movies. As to social media he looks at privacy, addiction, depression and narcissism. (Message preached 22nd Mar 2018)
How to Study the Bible (44 min)
Mervyn Hall gives a hands-on demonstration – using 2 Tim 2:15-16 – of how to study the Bible. (Graphics here and here). 1st: Divide the text (punctuation, conjunctions, verbs, participles, prepositions etc.). 2nd: Organise the text (flow and main point). 3rd: Probe the text (note the context, culture, history, and examine grammar). 4th: Synthesise the text (pull together and check for consistency with the rest of Scripture) (Message preached 18th Mar 2018)
The Christian and Personal Testimony (41 min)
Robert Plant preaches on the topic of “witnessing for Christ by life and by lip”. He takes up three roles of the Christian from the New Testament – a soldier, an evangelist and an ambassador – and draws various lessons as to how we should conduct ourselves before the world and how we can effectively evangelise among our work colleagues and neighbours (Message preached 8th Mar 2018)
The Christian in the Workplace (41 min)
Tom West preaches on the Christian and the workplace under 4 headings – God’s wisdom in providing the workplace, the worth of the believer in the workplace; the Christian’s well-being in the workplace; and, witnessing in the workplace. He refers to Joseph, Daniel and Samuel as three men who faced danger in the workplace; moral, social and religious danger respectively (Message preached 22nd Feb 2018)
The Christian and The Bible (44 min)
Mervyn Hall preaches on the purpose and value of the Bible for the Christian in today’s world. It is a “light” that enables us to “look out” and employ a Biblical worldview. It is also a “lamp” with which to “look down” and be guided in our Christian walk. Finally it is a “mirror” with which to “look in” – it corrects, challenges and rebukes us and causes us to seek to be more holy and more like our Saviour…
Christ and the Villages of Galilee (46 min)
PART 5 – Colin Hutchison preaches on some of the movements and miracles of Christ in and around the villages of Galilee. He opens up a number of very helpful lines of ministry in connection with the 4 gospels and their links with the Pentateuch. The bulk of his message concentrates on 4 miracles, one from each gospel, and the spiritual lessons to be learned therefrom for the Christian life (Message preached 29th Oct 2017)
Cain and Nod (43 min)
PART 4 – Colin Hutchison preaches on Cain in the land of Nod (Gen 4:16-26). He expounds the origin of the line of Cain, and how that line develops in the record given in the Bible. From Gen 4 he shows the origin of the godless world of commerce, music and the arts. In contrast to the world’s godless self-glorifying music, the next time we read of music is Exod 15, where the people of God sing about redemption (Message…
David and Gath (51 min)
PART 3 – Colin Hutchison preaches on David’s visit to ‘Philistine country’ in 1 Sam 21. The Philistines are a picture of unconverted religious men who suppress the Word of God and seek to overthrow God’s order. Mixing with them brought danger and compromise for David, as it will for us. How to overcome the Philistines is highlighted from the lives of Shamgar, the younger David and from Samson (Message preached 28th Oct 2017)
Samuel and Ramah (45 min)
PART 2 – Colin Hutchison preaches on Ramah, the town where Samuel lived, and judged and worshipped. Ramah means “the place of elevation”, so Colin teaches from 1 Samuel 7 how to “live a higher life”, “exercise a higher judgment” and “engage in higher worship”. He finds 4 principles under each topic as he works through the chapter. A helpful, challenging message, especially in relation to communion with Christ (Message preached 27th Oct 2017)
Jacob and Bethel (56 min)
PART 1 – Colin Hutchison preaches on lessons that Jacob learned at Bethel, the house of God. He likens Jacob’s experience in Genesis Ch 28 to that of a person in the present day who understands, by revelation from the Word of God, what a local assembly is – the place where God dwells. Colin tells the story of how he personally came to understand the truth of the house of God and challenges his audience to have convictions of…
John The Baptist’s Preaching Points (38 min)
Mervyn Hall brings a challenging message from three of John the Baptist’s “preaching points”. He outlines John’s purpose in the wilderness, his perspective at Bethabara (“the house of the ford”) and his persistence in the Palace, when preaching to Herod. Pertinent and poignant lessons are drawn from these narratives that guide us in our own 21st century gospel endeavour (Message preached June 1st 2017)
Believing the Impossible (40 min)
Michael Penfold preaches a message to encourage the weary Christian. He highlights three Bible characters: one who believed the impossible, another who saw the invisible, and a third who understood the inscrutable. Despite their internal frailties and external difficulties, these exemplary men lived by faith and overcame. May God give us help in our weariness to do the same (Message preached May 25th 2017)
Care-free Christianity (47 min)
John Salisbury expounds the secret of “care-free Christianity” from Matthew 6:1-7:11. Worry and anxiety seem to be part and parcel of our busy modern lives, yet the Lord Jesus in His Sermon on the Mount gives practical teaching on how to live care-free lives – lives lived in the enjoyment of a personal relationship with God as our Father. A most helpful and insightful exposition of Scripture (Message preached 18th May 2017)
Lessons from Paul’s Voyage (36 min)
Jack Hay preaches from Acts 27 and the narrative of Paul’s voyage to Rome that was shipwrecked along the way. Mr Hay draws lessons about the journey of life with its frictions, frustrations and foolishness – all of which can so easily rock our little boat and threaten to sink us beneath life’s complications. A salutary message containing many practical lessons (Message preached in Bicester, Easter 17th Apr 2017)
Paul on Malta (43 min)
Jack Hay preaches from Acts 28:1-3, drawing many pertinent and practical lessons from Paul’s arrival on the Mediterranean island of Malta (Melita – KJV). Issues touched on include assurance of salvation, unlimited atonement, humility in service and preservation in temptation (Message preached in Bicester, Easter 17th Apr 2017)
A Heart to Fear God (18 min)
Jack Hay preaches on Deut 5:29 “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!” He exhorts his audience to have a heart for God at all times and in all things (Message preached 16th Apr 2017)
What Church Should I Join? (38 min)
PART 4 – Christians need a spiritual home. The Bible speaks of Christians being “gathered in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Matt 18:20). In this message, Peter Scarsbrook looks at the truth of being part of a “local assembly”. Basing his remarks on Acts 2:42 he speaks of an assembly’s “foundation”, its “formation”, and a number of its vital “features”. If you are looking for scriptural guidance about assembly fellowship you will find this message helpful (Message preached 11th…
What Wilt Thou Have Me to Do? (41 min)
PART 3 – You’ve been saved, so what comes next? When Saul was saved on the road to Damascus his first question was, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” He was seeking to be consecrated and devoted to the Lord! In this message Peter Scarsbrook uses Paul’s life as an example of what it means to be totally dedicated to the Lord and explains how a new believer can begin to please the Lord in obedience and service…
The Three Enemies of the Christian (43 min)
PART 2 – Know your enemy! It is essential that the Christian be aware of the direction from which dangers and attacks will come along life’s journey to heaven. Peter Scarsbrook explains that the Bible reveals three enemies – “the world”, “the flesh” and “the Devil”. Learn what the Bible has to say about conflict with these adversaries and how to overcome in the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Peter outlines the armour of the Christian from Ephesians Chapter…
The Blessings of Being Saved (42 min)
PART 1 – What happened when you got saved? Peter Scarsbrook preaches on five of the blessings that became true of you the moment you were saved. 1) You became eternally secure, 2) You were indwelt by the Holy Spirit, 3) You became part of the church which is His body, 4) You joined the family of God and 5) Your nationality changed as you became a citizen of heaven. This is a beginner’s guide to the blessings of salvation,…
The Rest of Our Time (38 min)
Dan Shutt preaches a stirring message on the topic of “the rest of our time” and challenges his audience to dedicate the remainder of their lives to the Lord, using illustrations from the lives of Caleb, Mordecai, Moses, Paul and David. He closes his message with a look at the life of Christ and the perfect way in which He lived for His God (Message preached in Bicester, Easter 28th Mar 2016)
Why This Waste? (34 min)
Dan Shutt challenges his audience not to waste their lives on self, but to “waste their lives” for Christ. Others thought that breaking the box of costly ointment on Christ (in Mark Ch 14) was “a waste” – but any sacrifice for Christ is highly valued and eternally significant. “What the world calls waste, God values highly”. How will you spend the life God has given you? (Message preached 27th Mar 2016)
Hold Thou Me Up (39 min)
A searching message for every Christian – and a reminder of our great need of divine help – from John Fleck as he preaches on the text “Hold Thou me up, and I shall be safe” (Psa 119:117). He outlines the various provisions of the Lord for “the safety that saved people need” amid the many perils that abound in an evil world without God (Message preached 26th Mar 2016).
The Secret of the Christian Life (25 min)
Sandy Higgins preaches on the “balanced Christian life” from Luke 10. The calling and service of the Christian are revealed section by section until the “Mary and Martha” incident at the end. From there we learn that the secret to the Christian life is “the secret Christian life” (Message preached April 6th 2015)
Four Kinds of Trials (46 min)
Colin Hutchinson preaches on 4 kinds of trials in the Christian life from Peter’s first epistle. In a wide ranging message he takes some of the experiences of Elijah, Gideon, Hannah, John the Baptist, Peter and others to show how through “manifold temptations” they were tried by fire and came forth as gold. A powerful and sobering message (Message preached in Bicester, Easter April 6th 2015)
Great and Marvellous Are Thy Works (39 min)
Colin Hutchinson preaches on Rev 15:3 – “Great and marvellous are Thy works, Lord God almighty.” He traces God’s sovereign dealings in the lives of His people, using individuals like Abraham, Jacob and Naomi to illustrate the need to trust in God in every circumstance, however dark and trying. “We will never regret leaving our lives in God’s hands” (Message preached 6th April 2015)
Love, Lapse and Loyalty (30 min)
Sandy Higgins takes a challenging look at three New Testament characters. John the apostle, marked by love for Christ. Peter, marked by a sad lapse in devotion, as he followed at a distance. Joseph of Arimathea who was marked by loyalty to Christ in the hour of His death. Following Christ might mean burying your future…but a resurrected present will more than compensate (Message preached April 6th 2015)
The Ministry of the Prophet (18 min)
Colin Hutchison highlights three men who should have been priests – Jeremiah, Ezekiel and John the Baptist – but each of whom God sent forth as prophets because of the broken state of God’s people. Each man had a specific ministry to adjust the people hearts, to adjust the condition of God’s house and to make straight the way of the Lord. A challenging message (Message preached in Bicester, Easter 5th April 2015)
