Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 103 - 19/06/26

Led by Tim Clark

What happens when a Christian dies? In this third part of our study on life after death, we continue exploring the hope given to believers through the words of Jesus, the teaching of Paul, and the wider witness of Scripture.

Beginning with the thief on the cross, we consider Jesus’ promise: “Today you will be with Me in Paradise.” This remarkable moment shows us that salvation is not earned by religious achievement, knowledge, or lifelong works, but received by faith in Christ alone. The dying thief had no time to build a religious reputation, yet he recognised Jesus, confessed his own guilt, and looked to the King for mercy.

We also look at the nature of Christian hope. Biblical hope is not wishful thinking, like hoping for good weather or hoping a team will win. It is assurance, expectation, and certainty because it rests on the promise of God. The Christian can face death knowing that Christ has prepared a place for His people and that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

This study also considers the judgment seat of Christ and the difference between being judged for salvation and having our works tested. Salvation rests entirely on the finished work of Jesus, yet Scripture teaches that believers’ lives, motives, and service will be examined. What is built on Christ will endure; what is merely self-centred or worldly will be burned away.

We reflect on how the certainty of resurrection should shape the way we live now. If Christ has not been raised, Paul says our faith is useless — but Christ has indeed been raised from the dead. Because of that, death has lost its final victory, and the believer’s future is secure in Him.

The discussion also touches on grief, funerals, the death of loved ones, and the difference between grieving with hope and grieving without hope. Christians do sorrow, but not as those who have no hope. The death of a believer is painful for those left behind, but it is not the end; it is a temporary separation until we are gathered together with the Lord.

Finally, we consider the Lord’s Supper as both remembrance and anticipation. Each time believers share the bread and cup, we remember the death of Christ, but we also look forward to His return and to the day when all who belong to Him will share in His kingdom together. For the Christian, death is not the end of the story — because Jesus is risen, and those who are His will live with Him forever.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 102 - 05/06/26

Led by Tim Clark

In this second part of What the Bible Says About Life After Death, we continue exploring what Scripture teaches about death, resurrection, judgement, and eternity. This study focuses especially on the different “locations” the Bible speaks about in relation to what happens after we die.

We begin with the body: from dust we came, and to dust we return. Genesis, Ecclesiastes, the Psalms, and Daniel all help us see that the physical body goes to the grave, the tomb, the dust, or the place of burial. But the Bible also teaches that death is not the end of the person.

From there, we look at Sheol in the Old Testament and Hades in the New Testament — the realm of the dead. We consider how Scripture speaks of consciousness after death, communication, waiting, torment, comfort, and the great divide seen in Jesus’ account of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16.

We then consider Abraham’s bosom, Paradise, and what happened before the resurrection of Christ. The faithful dead were gathered to their people and kept in a place of comfort and rest, while the wicked were held in torment. Jesus’ words to the thief on the cross — “Today you shall be with Me in Paradise” — become especially important in understanding this.

The study then turns to what changed through the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. We look at passages such as Ephesians 4 and 1 Peter 3–4, considering Christ’s descent, His proclamation to the spirits in prison, and His leading of captives in His train. We also ask whether Abraham’s bosom is now empty, and where believers go when they die today.

We also explore the Christian hope of resurrection. Passages such as 2 Corinthians 5, 1 Thessalonians 4, 1 Corinthians 15, and Revelation 6 show that believers who die are present with the Lord, awaiting the resurrection body. Death is not victory over the believer; in Christ, death has been swallowed up in victory.

Finally, we look ahead to the final judgement, the lake of fire, the second death, and the New Jerusalem. The Bible ends not with vague ideas of clouds and harps, but with resurrection, renewed creation, perfect bodies, the dwelling place of God with His people, and eternal life with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 100 - 22/05/25

Led by Akin George

What does the Bible actually say about life after death?

In this first part of our study, we look honestly at the subject many people avoid: death. For the Christian, death is not the end, nor is it meant to be faced without hope. Scripture teaches that death entered through sin, but through Jesus Christ we have the promise of resurrection, eternal life, and being with the Lord.

Beginning in Genesis, we trace the origin of death and the separation caused by sin, before considering the hope given to believers through Christ. We discuss passages including Hebrews 9, 1 Thessalonians 4, John 11, Luke 23, John 14, and 2 Corinthians 4, exploring questions such as:

- What happens when a Christian dies?

- Is death really described as sleep in the Bible?

- Is there such a thing as reincarnation or a second chance after death?

- What did Jesus mean when He told the thief on the cross, “Today you will be with Me in Paradise”?

- How should the hope of resurrection shape the way we live now?

This study is both comforting and challenging. Comforting, because those who belong to Christ have a certain hope beyond the grave. Challenging, because Scripture reminds us that “it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27).

For the believer, death is not defeat. Because Jesus died and rose again, those who trust in Him will live, even though they die.

#WhatTheBibleSays #LifeAfterDeath #DeathAndResurrection #ChristianHope #JesusChrist #BibleStudy #Resurrection #EternalLife #Heaven #Gospel

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 100 - 08/05/25

Led by Tim Clark

To mark our 100th What the Bible Says Bible study, we did something a little different: a full WTBS Quiz Night 2026. From questions about the study itself, to surprising Bible details, to a final round of “Bible or AI?”, this was a joyful, funny, and sometimes very humbling evening together.

Along the way, we looked at some wonderfully unexpected parts of Scripture, reflected on how carefully we need to read our Bibles, and were reminded that in an age of confusion, imitation, and noise, the Word of God remains trustworthy, living, and true. The evening also included a look back over the journey so far, including the remarkable number of people who have attended WTBS over time.

No answers in the description this time — you’ll have to play along properly and see how many you can get before the group does.

If you enjoy Bible study that goes beyond the surface, and you want to grow in confidence in what Scripture really says, this quiz is a great reminder that knowing the Bible well matters.

#WhatTheBibleSays #BibleQuiz #BibleStudy #ChristianTeaching #Scripture #ChurchBibleStudy #QuizNight #BibleTrivia #WordOfGod #ChristianYouTube

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 99 - 24/04/25

Led by Tim Clark

Israel’s story is marked by exile, judgement, mercy, and restoration. In this WTBS study, we trace the major exiles of Israel through Scripture — from Egypt, to the wilderness, to Assyria, Babylon, and the later Roman dispersion — and explore how each one reveals both the seriousness of sin and the faithfulness of God.

We examine why these exiles happened, how they were foretold generations in advance, and how God continually preserved a remnant for Himself. From the Exodus to the Babylonian captivity, the Bible shows that God is never out of control, even in judgement. Every exile carried both warning and promise.

The study explores the exile of the Northern Kingdom under Assyria, the destruction of Jerusalem under Babylon, and the later worldwide scattering of the Jewish people after the rejection of the Messiah. Along the way, we look at passages from Genesis, Kings, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Luke, Romans and Amos to see how exile and restoration form a major thread running through the whole Bible.

We also consider the deeper spiritual meaning behind exile in Scripture. Egypt becomes a picture of salvation and deliverance. The wilderness becomes a picture of unbelief and testing. The return from exile becomes a picture of restoration, mercy, covenant faithfulness, and ultimately the kingdom of God itself.

Special attention is given to the prophetic promises concerning Israel’s future restoration, the rebuilding of the “tabernacle of David,” the inclusion of the Gentiles, and the relationship between Israel, the Church, and the return of Christ. Romans 9–11 and Acts 15 are especially important in understanding how these themes fit together.

This study also reflects on God’s sovereignty in history. Nations rise and fall, empires come and go, but the Lord remains faithful to His covenant purposes. The exiles of Israel were never random events — they were foretold, governed by God, and used to point ultimately toward Jesus Christ and His kingdom.

As always, this is an open Bible study discussion with questions, interaction, Scripture reading, and practical application throughout.

*Key passages include:*

Genesis 15:13–16, Exodus 6:5–8, Numbers 14:26–35, 2 Kings 17, 2 Kings 24, Isaiah 11, Jeremiah 25, Jeremiah 29, Ezekiel 37, Luke 19:41–44, Luke 21:20–24, Acts 15:13–18, Romans 11:25–32, Amos 9:11–15

#BibleStudy #Israel #Exile #Prophecy #JesusChrist #Romans11 #Babylon #Assyria #EndTimes #KingdomOfGod #WTBS #Christianity #OldTestament #NewTestament #Messiah #Restoration #BibleProphecy

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 98 - 10/04/25

Led by Graeme McPherson

This study takes up the tabernacle as a deliberate picture of the gospel and of Jesus Christ. Right at the outset the group is careful not to run wild with symbolism, but to let Scripture itself govern the links that are made. The aim is not to invent meanings, but to see how Exodus 25–26, read in the light of the New Testament, shows God’s redemptive purpose and His desire to dwell among His people.

A major theme is that the tabernacle reveals the heart of God: “that I may dwell among them.” The discussion repeatedly connects this with Eden, with John 1 where the Word “tabernacled” among us, and with the final fulfilment in Revelation where the dwelling place of God is with men. The tabernacle is therefore treated not merely as ancient furniture for worship, but as part of the Bible’s great storyline of God coming to dwell with His people through Christ.

The group also gives significant attention to the willing offerings used to build the tabernacle. This becomes an exhortation about worship, gratitude, and stewardship. Israel had been rescued from Egypt entirely by God’s power, and so their giving is read as the grateful response of a redeemed people. From there the study presses into application: what we do with our resources shows what we worship, and what is not yielded to God can easily be turned toward idols.

The ark and mercy seat form the theological centre of the discussion. The mercy seat is seen as the meeting place between God and man, the place of atonement, and a powerful picture of mercy standing over law. The group reflects on the cherubim guarding the way to God, the law inside the ark condemning sinners, and the mercy seat above it all, covered by sacrificial blood. From this they move naturally to Christ: the better sacrifice, the true meeting place with God, and the reason believers can now approach boldly.

The table of bread is read as a picture of fellowship, provision, and communion. Bread, wine, and the setting of a table point the group toward the Lord’s Supper, the Emmaus road, and Jesus as the bread of life. At the same time, the discussion keeps pressing into discipleship: believers are not only recipients of grace, but vessels through whom the bread is served. The tabernacle therefore becomes a pattern for ongoing communion with Christ and for a life that ministers His provision to others.

The lampstand then opens up the theme of light, holiness, and the work of the Spirit. Its beauty, purity, and hammered construction lead into reflection on how God forms His people through suffering and shapes each one distinctly for service. The oil is understood as pointing to the Holy Spirit, so that shining for God is never a matter of natural strength or outward impressiveness, but of divine life within. The wider discussion reinforces this by insisting that God’s presence does not rest on equipment, atmosphere, or externals, but upon consecrated people.

Overall, the study presents the tabernacle as both Christological and pastoral. Christ is shown as the true tabernacle, the fulfiller of the law, the mercy seat, the bread, and the meeting place with God. Yet the study does not stop there: because believers are united to Christ, the church itself is spoken of as God’s dwelling place, a royal priesthood called to holiness, worship, service, and witness. The result is a study that is rich in biblical theology, but also full of practical exhortation toward reverence, gratitude, godly character, and Spirit-filled ministry.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 96 - 27/02/25

Led by Martin Rogers

In this second, conclusion of the study, we returned to Romans 11 and centred again on the great question: what does it mean that “all Israel will be saved”? The discussion began by reaffirming that Israel has experienced a partial hardening, not a total rejection, and that this hardening is bound up with God’s wider redemptive purpose in bringing salvation to the Gentiles. At the same time, the study firmly held that there is only one way of salvation for Jew and Gentile alike: through faith in Jesus Christ.

We then worked through Paul’s olive tree picture in Romans 11. Israel’s stumbling opened the door for the Gentiles, yet Gentile believers are not to boast, because they do not support the root; the root supports them. The grafting-in of the Gentiles was described as something “contrary to nature,” highlighting that our inclusion brings no merit of our own, but rests entirely on the grace of God. If God can graft in wild branches, then he is certainly able to graft the natural branches back in again.

From there, the study pushed back against the idea that God’s promises to Israel have been cancelled or absorbed away. Romans 11 was read as teaching that, though many in Israel are presently enemies with respect to the gospel, they remain beloved because of the patriarchs, and the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable. The discussion stressed that this does not place Jews above Gentiles in salvation, nor create two peoples of God, but it does mean that God’s covenant faithfulness to ethnic Israel still matters within his purposes in history.

The prophetic foundation for this was then laid from Jeremiah 31 and Ezekiel 36. Jeremiah speaks of a new covenant made with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, in which God writes his law on their hearts, forgives their sin, and maintains Israel as a nation before him. Ezekiel adds that this restoration is not for Israel’s sake, but for the sake of God’s holy name: he will gather them from the nations, bring them back into their own land, cleanse them, give them a new heart, and put his Spirit within them.

Ezekiel 37 then sharpened the picture through the valley of dry bones. The bones were understood as the house of Israel: scattered, cut off, and apparently without hope. Yet God promises both a physical return to the land and a spiritual renewal by his Spirit. The study noted that there appears to be a distinction between the bones coming together and the breath entering them. In other words, the regathering of Israel to the land may be visible already, while the full spiritual awakening still lies ahead.

That future awakening was tied especially to Hosea 3 and Zechariah 12. Hosea speaks of Israel abiding many days without king, sacrifice, or temple, and afterwards returning to seek the Lord and “David their king” in the latter days. Zechariah then gives the climactic moment: God pours out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication, and they look upon the one they have pierced and mourn for him. The study understood this as the national repentance of Israel and their recognition of Jesus as Messiah at the end.

So the conclusion reached was that “all Israel will be saved” does not mean every Jew who has ever lived, nor does it establish a separate way of salvation. Rather, it points to the future salvation of Israel as a people at the time appointed by God, when the remnant that remains will repent and believe in their Messiah. The whole thing is grounded not in human worthiness, but in divine mercy, covenant faithfulness, and God’s zeal for his own name. The study closed where Romans 11 closes: with wonder, humility, and worship before the wisdom of God, from whom and through whom and to whom are all things.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 96 - 13/02/25

Led by Martin Rogers

This first session opened with the foundational claim of Romans 11:25–29: Israel has experienced a partial hardening, but this is neither total nor final, and God’s gifts and calling are irrevocable. We began by reflecting on Jacob becoming Israel, and on the symbolism of his wrestling with God, as a possible picture of the nation itself: resisting, contending, wounded, yet ultimately clinging to God for blessing. That set the tone for the whole evening: Israel’s story is one of struggle, discipline, covenant, and eventual redemption.

We then moved to the Old Testament foundations for Israel’s election. Passages such as Deuteronomy 7 and Psalm 135 helped us see that God chose Israel as His treasured possession, not because of their greatness or merit, but because of His own love and covenant purpose. We stressed that Israel’s place in God’s purposes begins with God’s sovereign choice, not with Israel’s worthiness. That point mattered because it guarded us from the idea that Israel’s significance comes from human righteousness rather than divine promise.

From there, we considered Israel’s rebellion and blindness. Romans 10 was central here: Israel was described as zealous for God, but not according to knowledge, attempting to establish its own righteousness rather than submitting to the righteousness of God in Christ. We repeatedly returned to the language of Israel as a disobedient and obstinate people, while also recognising that this is not uniquely Israel’s problem, but a mirror of fallen humanity more broadly. We noted that the hardness of Israel’s heart was not an accident, but something God has permitted within His wider redemptive plan.

A major thread throughout the evening was that Israel’s unfaithfulness does not cancel God’s faithfulness. Romans 3 and Romans 11 showed us that unbelief among some Jews does not nullify the covenant promises of God, nor does it mean that God has rejected His people. The existence of a remnant according to grace was held up as proof that God has not cast Israel off. We emphasised that if God could simply abandon Israel, then the security of all His promises would be called into question. His covenant faithfulness to Israel therefore becomes a comfort to us as believers as well as a warning against pride.

We also explored the relation between Jewish unbelief and Gentile salvation. Romans 11:11 showed us that through Israel’s trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, with the purpose of provoking Israel to jealousy. We reflected on how extraordinary it is that Gentile believers worship the God of Israel, trust in Israel’s Messiah, and read Israel’s Scriptures. That reality itself was seen as part of God’s plan to stir Israel to reconsider her own promises. We also discussed the growth of Messianic Jewish faith in modern times, with the sense that God is already at work in drawing Jewish people to Jesus.

One of the key questions we raised in the session was the meaning of the phrase “all Israel will be saved.” We discussed several possibilities without forcing a final conclusion in this first part. We were clear, however, that salvation is always and only through faith in Jesus Christ, whether for Jew or Gentile, before the cross or after it. Hebrews 11 and Romans 9–11 helped underline that there is no second way of salvation. The unresolved question was not whether Jews need Christ, but how exactly Paul’s prophecy about “all Israel” should be understood in light of God’s covenant promises and future purposes.

We closed on a pastoral and worshipful note. Hosea helped us see God’s steadfast love toward an unfaithful people: chastening, grieving, yet refusing to give them up. That led us to rejoice not merely in Israel’s future hope, but in the wider truth that God is faithful to His covenant and faithful to His people. We ended with the sense that this doctrine should not produce arrogance or speculation, but humility, prayer, evangelistic concern, and deeper confidence in the God whose promises never fail. Part 1 therefore, set the stage for the next study by establishing the central truth that the salvation of Israel must be understood through the lens of God’s faithfulness, Christ’s righteousness, and the certainty of God’s redemptive plan.

#MCF #scriptureexplained #jesus #gospel #salvation #biblestudy #sounddoctrine #discipleship #church #christianliving #gracealone #holiness #eternallife #gospelofhope

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 93 - 27/02/25

Led by Tim Clark

This week we continued our WTBS session on “What the Bible Says About the Rejected Messiah,” returning again to the question of why many Jewish people—both in Jesus’ day and now—do not recognise Him as Messiah, even with the New Testament’s testimony and the historical claim of the resurrection.

We briefly recapped the main objections we’d already covered: the expectation of an earthly, kingdom-establishing Messiah (which we understood through the framework of one Messiah with two comings), the objection that God cannot become man, the claim that the New Testament contradicts Torah (set against Jesus fulfilling the Law rather than abolishing it), and the grievous reality of historic persecution carried out “in Jesus’ name,” which we distinguished from genuine biblical Christianity.

From there we focused on the destruction of the Temple in AD 70 and what that meant for sacrificial worship. We traced how, without the Temple, Mosaic practice became impossible in its original form, and we discussed how rabbinic Judaism developed around synagogue and rabbi rather than Temple and priest—necessarily re-framing atonement away from blood sacrifice, often appealing to passages such as Hosea 6:6.

We then pressed into the biblical necessity of substitutionary atonement. We grounded it in Leviticus 17:11 (“the life…is in the blood”), traced the principle back to Eden (God clothing Adam and Eve with skins), and then moved forward to the prophets, reading Isaiah 53:4–6 as unmistakably presenting a personal substitute—one who suffers for “our transgressions” and bears “the iniquity of us all.”

We linked that Old Testament framework directly to the New Testament witness. We noted how John 1:29 (“the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”) only makes full sense in light of Leviticus, and we read Hebrews 9:11–14 as a clear explanation of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice—greater than bulls and goats, cleansing the conscience, and securing eternal redemption.

We then addressed the objection that the Trinity is polytheism. We explored how the Old Testament itself contains plurality within God’s oneness: we looked at the Shema (Deut. 6:4) alongside “one flesh” (Gen. 2:24) and “unity” (Ps. 133:1) to illustrate “compound oneness,” and we gathered several passages that show personal distinction without abandoning monotheism (Gen. 1:26; Isa. 48:16; Gen. 19:24; Prov. 30:4; Ps. 110:1). We then confirmed the triune pattern in the New Testament through Matt. 28:19 and 2 Cor. 13:14, and we noted how Hebrews 1 speaks plainly of the Son’s deity.

We finished by returning to Paul’s olive-tree picture in Romans 11: we, as Gentiles, have been grafted in by grace, we must not boast over the natural branches, and we’re called to live in such a way that Israel is provoked to jealousy for her own God and Messiah. We closed with hope and humility—trusting God’s covenant purposes, remembering that the veil is removed in Christ, and seeking to hold the truth with love, reverence, and faithfulness.

#scriptureexplained #jesus #gospel #salvation #biblestudy #sounddoctrine #discipleship #church #christianliving #gracealone #holiness #eternallife #gospelofhope

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 93 - 13/02/25

Led by Tim Clark

Why was Messiah rejected—especially by the very nation to whom He first came? In Part 2 of Rejected Messiah, we follow the Bible’s own storyline: Israel’s longing for deliverance, the weight of expectation, and the shock of a suffering Redeemer. Luke 24 helps set the scene—“we were hoping…”—and shows how even sincere disciples can misread God’s plan until Christ opens the Scriptures.

Scripture also pulls back the curtain on the spiritual battle beneath the surface. From Genesis 3 onward there is enmity—hatred aimed not merely at people, but at God’s promise and God’s purposes. This matters because so much anti-Jewish hostility across history cannot be explained by politics alone; the Bible treats it as part of a deeper conflict over redemption.

We then address a painfully real obstacle: the sins of “Christendom” have often been used as a reason to reject Christ. Persecution, scapegoating, coercion, and hypocrisy have made the name “Christian” a stumbling block for Jewish hearers. Yet those sins are not the fruit of Jesus’ teaching—Christ commands love, truth, and humility—so we must separate biblical Christianity from the betrayals done in its name.

Next, we return to the obvious fact so often ignored: Jesus is Jewish. Luke 2 reminds us He was born into Israel’s covenant life, and Luke 13 shows His tender lament over Jerusalem. The gospel did not arrive as a Gentile invention; the first witnesses, apostles, and the earliest church were Jewish—God’s salvation going out from Israel to the nations exactly as promised.

Romans 9 and 11 then anchor God’s ongoing faithfulness. Paul’s grief for his “kinsmen according to the flesh” is unmistakable, and Romans 11:28–29 stands like a pillar: God’s gifts and calling are irrevocable. Salvation is only in Christ—yet God has not cancelled His covenant purposes for ethnic Israel, and the church must never become arrogant toward the root that supports it.

That leads into the hope-filled promise: “all Israel will be saved” (Romans 11:26–27). This is not automatic salvation for every Jew of all time, but a future, climactic turning to Messiah—echoing the prophets’ language of national mourning and recognition. The response for believers now is simple and biblical: pray, witness with humility, love without flattery, and refuse both errors—erasing Israel on the one hand, or baptising political agendas on the other.

Finally, we tackle the covenant question head-on. Jeremiah 31 declares that God Himself promised a New Covenant “with the house of Israel and the house of Judah,” not like the broken Sinai covenant—one marked by forgiveness and God’s law written on the heart. Jesus identifies His blood as “the new covenant” (Luke 22:20), and Hebrews 8 shows how Christ fulfils what the prophets foretold. Jew and Gentile alike have one way of salvation—Messiah alone—yet that salvation comes through God’s faithful story that began with Israel and was always meant to bless the nations.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 93 - 16/01/25

Led by Tim Clark

This opening session launches a new “Israel-focused” series by framing the question: if Jesus came first to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel,” why has Israel, in large measure, rejected Him? The group begins with a short evangelistic video showing Jewish witnesses using the Tanakh to point fellow Jews to Messiah—highlighting how passages like Isaiah 52–53 and Isaiah 9:6 sound “New Testament” to many, even though they are in the Hebrew Scriptures.

The study then lays a biblical foundation for why Jewish evangelism is not optional. Matthew 28:19–20 and Acts 1:8 are read to show the gospel’s outward movement—beginning at Jerusalem, then Judea and Samaria, then “to the end of the earth.” Romans 1:16 is used to emphasise the pattern “to the Jew first,” and the group notes Paul’s repeated habit in Acts: entering new cities, going first to the synagogue, and only then turning outward when rejected.

From there the discussion stresses continuity: Gentile believers are not a replacement people, but are brought in—“other sheep” gathered into “one flock” under “one shepherd” (John 10:16). Jeremiah 31:31–34 is read to underline that the New Covenant is explicitly made with “the house of Israel” and “the house of Judah,” with Gentiles grafted in, sharing a Jewish root rather than becoming a separate root. This sets a humble tone: the faith is inseparable from God’s promises to Israel and from Israel’s Scriptures.

The group then turns to the central problem: what went wrong, and why do many Jews reject Jesus as Messiah? Several contributing themes are raised—expectations of a warrior-king, confusion about one coming versus two, and the danger of reading Scripture through the lens of what we most want. The study warns Christians not to be smug: hardness of heart is not uniquely “Jewish,” and the only reason any of us see Christ rightly is God’s gracious illumination and mercy.

Objection #1 is explored: “Jesus did not fulfil the Messiah’s promises.” Isaiah 2:1–4 and Ezekiel 37:25–28 are read to show the messianic hope of worldwide peace, nations streaming to Zion, Torah instruction going out from Jerusalem, and God’s sanctuary established among His people. The group notes that Jewish readers naturally expect these to arrive with Messiah’s appearance—so they ask, “Where is the peace? Where is the King on David’s throne? Where is the Temple?” The biblical response offered is that the Tanakh contains both a suffering-servant motif and a conquering-king motif—fulfilled in one Messiah, but in two comings.

Objection #2 follows: “God cannot be a man” (Numbers 23:19). The study answers by pointing to Tanakh episodes where God is encountered in a recognisably personal, embodied manner—Genesis 18 (the LORD appearing with “three men”), the “Angel of the LORD” narratives (e.g., Judges 13:21–22), and prophetic titles like Isaiah 9:6 (“Mighty God,” “Everlasting Father”) applied to a child. The point is not to force a foreign idea onto Israel’s Bible, but to show that Scripture itself contains categories that make incarnation intelligible, preparing the way for the Messiah revealed in the New Testament.

Objection #3 is introduced: “Christianity contradicts the Torah.” The group reads Matthew 5:17 (“fulfil,” not abolish) and Romans 3:31 (“we uphold the Law”), then distinguishes between being under the Law as a condemning covenant and living in the New Covenant where God writes His Law on the heart (Jeremiah 31). The discussion stresses that Christ fulfils the whole Law as the perfect Israelite, and that the Old and New Testaments are one story—without the sacrificial system and its logic, we cannot grasp why John calls Jesus “the Lamb of God.” The session pauses here, setting up the remaining objections for the next study.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 92 - 19/12/25

Led by Tim Clark

Jesus presents Himself as the Amen, the faithful and true witness, confronting a church governed by human opinion with His absolute authority and final word.

Laodicea was materially rich but spiritually bankrupt, mistaking prosperity and comfort for true blessing while being blind to its real condition before God.

Their lukewarm faith mirrored their water supply, neither healing nor refreshing, revealing indifference rather than open rejection or wholehearted devotion.

Self-sufficiency had pushed Christ to the margins, as they claimed to need nothing, unknowingly repeating the sin of Eden—independence from God.

Jesus’ warning to “vomit” them out is severe, showing that half-hearted religion is not neutral but poisonous to the witness of His church.

Yet Christ offers gracious counsel, not destruction, inviting them to receive from Him true riches: refined gold (tested faith), white garments (righteousness), and eye salve (spiritual sight).

The letter ends with a personal call to repentance and fellowship, as Christ stands at the door and knocks, promising intimate communion to all who open to Him and overcome.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 91 - 05/12/25

Led by Graeme McPherson

Christ reveals Himself to Philadelphia as holy and true, assuring a persecuted church that He is faithful, unlike the earthly authorities who had betrayed them.

Jesus alone holds the key of David, meaning entrance into God’s kingdom is determined by Him, not by synagogue membership, heritage, or religious power.

The “open door” set before the church represents permanent access to God’s household, even though the synagogue had shut its doors against them.

The believers endured exclusion, shame, and danger for confessing Jesus as Messiah, yet they refused to deny His name or abandon His word.

Those who falsely claimed to be God’s people would one day acknowledge that Christ truly loved the faithful church they had rejected.

Jesus promises preservation through coming trials, not escape from faithfulness, calling the church to patient endurance rather than fear.

The reward for perseverance is eternal security—to be made a pillar in God’s temple, bearing His name, and belonging forever to the New Jerusalem.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 90 - 21/11/25

Led by Graeme McPherson

Tonight, we continue with our study of the seven churches of Revelation - The church of Sardis.

In this study, we explore Jesus’ message to the church in Sardis, a fellowship that carried the reputation of being alive yet was declared spiritually dead, revealing the danger of outward success without inward faithfulness.

We look at the historical and cultural setting of Sardis—a wealthy, influential, pluralistic city—where both Jews and Christians were tempted to compromise the distinctiveness of God’s truth to “get along” with the world around them.

Jesus exposes a church that had blended into its environment, losing the sharp edge of the gospel, softening its message, and allowing comfort, peace and reputation to replace wholehearted loyalty to Him.

Through Scripture, we examine how a church—or a believer—can appear vibrant externally while spiritually empty, exploring themes such as compromise, friendship with the world, incomplete works, and the loss of Jesus’ pre-eminence.

Jesus calls Sardis to wake up, strengthen what little remains, remember what they first received, hold fast to the truth, and repent before everything spiritually alive within them dies out completely.

We see how this warning speaks directly to our own “get-along culture,” where the exclusive claims of Christ are often diluted, avoided, or re-packaged to avoid rejection, conflict, or cultural disapproval.

Yet the study ends with hope—Christ promises white garments, secure names in the Book of Life, and the joy of walking with Him in victory for those who refuse compromise, hold to His Word, and keep Him above all else.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 89 - 07/11/25

Led by Martin Rogers

Tonight, we continue with our study of the seven churches of Revelation - The church of Thyatira.

1️⃣ The Church at Thyatira – a small town with a big message.

Though it was the smallest and most obscure of the seven churches, Thyatira received the longest letter from Christ—showing that even the least significant church in worldly eyes can carry deep spiritual lessons.

2️⃣ Christ reveals Himself as the Son of God with eyes like fire.

This unique title—used nowhere else in Revelation—shows His penetrating vision and refining judgment. Nothing escapes His sight; He sees every heart and motive within His church.

3️⃣ Faith, love, and service that outgrew their beginnings.

Thyatira was commended for its love, faith, service, and patient endurance. Their later works were greater than their first, reminding us that true discipleship is a life of continual growth and increasing fruitfulness.

4️⃣ The danger of tolerance and compromise.

Despite their strengths, the church was rebuked for allowing “Jezebel” to teach immorality and idolatry. Her influence symbolised false teaching and moral compromise—showing how spiritual corruption can arise within the church itself.

5️⃣ A call to daily, reasonable service and sacrificial living.

Romans 12:1–2 was central to the discussion: offering ourselves as living sacrifices, not conformed to the world but transformed by renewing our minds. True worship is seen in humble, everyday obedience.

6️⃣ Christ’s mercy and His warning of judgment.

Even Jezebel was given time to repent, yet she refused. The Lord’s patience reveals His mercy—but His discipline shows that He will not tolerate sin in His people. Judgment begins with the house of God.

7️⃣ Hold fast until He comes.

To the faithful who resisted false teaching, Jesus placed no further burden but promised reward: authority with Him and the gift of the Morning Star. The call remains—stand firm, stay pure, and serve faithfully until His return.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 88 - 24/10/25

Led by Akin George

Tonight, we continue with our study of the seven churches of Revelation - The church of Pergamum.

Pergamum was a stronghold of idolatry and spiritual darkness, with temples to many false gods and pressure to worship Caesar; yet Christ commends believers there for holding fast His name and not denying the faith even under threat of death, as seen in the martyrdom of Antipas.

Jesus reveals Himself to this church as the One who possesses the sharp two-edged sword, underscoring that only the Word of God can discern truth, expose sin, and sustain believers in hostile environments.

Though faithful in persecution, some in Pergamum embraced compromise: tolerating those who taught the doctrine of Balaam, encouraging fellowship with idolatry and participation in sexual immorality as a way to avoid social and political pressure.

The study links Balaam’s strategy in Numbers—tempting Israel to sin through forbidden union and idolatrous feasts—to the subtle infiltration of worldly practices and moral laxity in the church, showing that Satan often attacks from within when he cannot destroy from without.

Scripture highlights that God’s people are called to be separate, a distinct people who dwell apart; therefore compromise with pagan culture, whether ancient or modern, erodes holiness and invites divine discipline.

Christ calls the church to repentance, warning that He will fight against compromise with the sword of His mouth; believers must deal decisively with sin and false teaching in their midst, holding fast to Scripture and refusing to “blend in” with the culture.

To the overcomer, Jesus promises hidden manna—His sustaining presence—and a white stone with a new name known only to the one who receives it, symbolising intimate acceptance and eternal blessing for those who remain faithful in a world hostile to the truth.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 87 - 10/10/25

Led by Akin George

Tonight, we continue with our study of the seven churches of Revelation - The church of Smyrna.

1) Christ the First and the Last—Lord of Life and Death

Jesus identifies Himself as “the First and the Last, who was dead and has come to life” (Rev 2:8). He alone is eternal, sovereign over history, and victorious over death (Isa 44:6; Rev 1:17-18). His words remind believers that every beginning and ending—our birth, suffering, and even death—are in His hands. Those who trust the risen Lord have nothing finally to fear (John 11:25-26).

2) Christ Knows Our Tribulation and Poverty

The Lord’s words, “I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich)” (Rev 2:9), reveal His intimate awareness of His people’s suffering. Smyrna’s believers were poor because faithfulness to Christ cost them their livelihoods and status. Yet heaven counted them rich, for true wealth is measured in spiritual faithfulness, not possessions (Luke 12:15; James 2:5). God sees every unseen act of endurance and service.

3) Faithfulness in Persecution Is True Riches

Smyrna’s Christians were despised and slandered, yet Christ called them rich. The poor widow who gave her two coins (Mark 12:43-44) and the joyful sufferers in Hebrews 10:34 show that earthly loss often proves spiritual gain. When believers lose comfort, position, or freedom for Christ, they display the surpassing worth of knowing Him (Phil 3:8-10).

4) The Source of Persecution Is Spiritual

Jesus names their persecutors “a synagogue of Satan” (Rev 2:9). Though hostility came through people, its true origin was the devil (Eph 6:12). Christians must discern that opposition to truth is ultimately spiritual, resisting darkness with prayer, love, and the armour of God (Eph 6:13-18). Our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the powers of deception that oppose Christ.

5) Do Not Fear: Testing Refines Faith

The Lord forewarns, “The devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested… be faithful unto death” (Rev 2:10). Testing is not to destroy but to purify faith (1 Pet 1:6-7; Jas 1:2-4). Fear is the enemy’s weapon, but perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Christ prepares His church beforehand so that when trials come, we may stand firm, knowing our suffering is brief compared to eternal glory (2 Cor 4:17-18).

6) Be Faithful unto Death—Christ Rewards Endurance

Smyrna’s believers were promised “the crown of life.” Crowns in Scripture symbolise victory and eternal reward (2 Tim 4:8; Jas 1:12). Faithfulness is not mere endurance but trustful obedience sustained by the Spirit. Like Polycarp, who said, “Eighty-six years have I served Him, and He has done me no wrong,” believers are called to steadfast loyalty even when it costs everything.

7) Overcoming Leads to Eternal Life

“He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death” (Rev 2:11). The first death ends earthly life; the second death is eternal separation from God (Rev 20:14-15). Those born again through faith in Christ die only once, but those who reject Him die twice. Overcoming means remaining in Christ to the end, conquering fear, compromise, and self through His strength (Rom 8:37; 1 John 5:4-5). The promise of resurrection life gives courage to persevere.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 85 - 26/09/25

Led by Martin Rogers

This week we start our study on the seven churches in earnest, beginning with the church of Ephesus.

Ephesus Context

Ephesus was a wealthy, pagan and imperial city—temples, emperor worship, sexual immorality, and the incense test at the agora—where a faithful church nevertheless took root under Paul, John and Timothy (Acts 19; Rev 2:1).

Christ’s Commendation

Jesus commends their hard work, endurance, doctrinal vigilance and rejection of false apostles and the Nicolaitans; they had not grown weary in bearing His name (Rev 2:2–3, 6).

Christ’s Rebuke

Yet He indicts them for abandoning their first love—works remained, wonder waned; He commands, “Remember…repent…and do the first works,” warning that otherwise He will remove their lampstand (Rev 2:4–5).

Promise to Overcomers

To those who heed and overcome, Jesus promises access to the tree of life in the paradise of God—a truer life than Artemis ever offered (Rev 2:7; cf. Gen 2:9).

Spiritual Warfare and Witness

Ministry in Ephesus showed power and conflict: daily reasoning in the hall of Tyrannus, costly repentance (magic books burned), demonic showdowns, and city-wide upheaval—so the word prevailed while believers wrestled not against flesh and blood (Acts 19:8–20; Eph 6:12).

Guardrails Against Drift

The cure for loveless duty is relational devotion expressed in obedience: keep Word and Spirit central, practice repentant self-examination, pursue fellowship and mutual correction, and let love (agapē) animate service (Luke 10:27; 1 Cor 13:1–3; Rom 2:29).

Corporate Application

Churches can defend truth yet grow inward and sterile; Christ calls congregations to recover zeal for Him that overflows in mercy, holiness and disciple-making, so their light is not removed but shines before men (Matt 5:14–16; Rev 2:5).

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 85 - 12/09/25

Tonight we begin our new study series looking at the seven churches of revelation.

1) Setting & aim.

This study opens a new series on the seven churches of Revelation by first grounding us in Revelation 1. The aim is to let the introduction frame the whole series: who speaks (the risen Christ), to whom He speaks (His churches), and why He speaks (to reveal and ready His servants).

2) The prologue & context.

Revelation is “the revelation of Jesus Christ…to show His servants what must soon take place” (Rev 1:1). The study highlights the pastoral weight of the titles in 1:4–8—“the Alpha and the Omega,” “who is and who was and who is to come”—spoken to a persecuted church under Rome. John, “your brother and companion in the tribulation,” writes from exile on Patmos “for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus” (Rev 1:9).

3) The vision of the Son of Man.

John beholds the glorified Christ walking “in the midst of the seven golden lampstands” with blazing eyes, a voice like many waters, and a sharp two-edged sword from His mouth (Rev 1:12–16). The lampstands are the churches; the seven stars are “the angels of the seven churches” (Rev 1:20). Some take these as angelic messengers, others as human leaders, but the central comfort stands: Jesus holds His church in His right hand and dwells among her. Against every imperial claim, the confession remains: Jesus triumphs.

4) Idolatry then & now; Christian identity.

Surrounded by altars “to an unknown god,” the first-century world embodies pervasive paganism (Acts 17:22–31). The gospel confronts it, and the church lives as a faithful minority. Believers are not “of the world,” yet are sent into it (John 17:14–18); friendship with the world is enmity with God (cf. 1 John 2:15; James 4:4). Hope fixed on eternity marks Christian identity, while tangible love makes the witness compelling (John 13:34–35).

5) What kind of book is this?

Revelation stands as apocalyptic prophecy—an unveiling—rich with symbols and Old Testament echoes (Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, Zechariah). Four lenses help: preterist (past), historicist (across the church age), idealist (timeless spiritual realities), and futurist (yet to be fulfilled). Rather than absolutising one view, the study affirms Scripture’s patterned fulfilment: the seven churches are literal first-century assemblies, perennial church types, plausible epochs in church history, and profiles that appear at the end.

6) Key verses & pastoral applications.

Rev 1:1–3 teaches that God knows and reveals the future (Amos 3:7; Dan 2:28). A distinct blessing rests on those who read, hear, and keep this prophecy. “The time is near” stands true redemptive-historically (the last days begin with Christ’s death and resurrection; Heb 1:1–2) and personally (our own end may be nearer than we think; therefore be ready—Matt 25:1–13). Rev 1:7 anchors hope: He comes with the clouds and every eye sees Him (Dan 7:13; Matt 24:30; Zech 12:10). Rev 1:17–18 anchors courage: “Fear not… I am the first and the last… I am alive forevermore.”

7) Christ among the lampstands.

The risen Lord stands among His churches—even mixed congregations He must both commend and correct (Rev 2–3). This guards us from pride and sectarianism, calls us to discernment and charity, and keeps us centred on the Word that reforms and revives. As we behold His glory, we are changed (2 Cor 3:18); as we suffer, we endure with Him (Rev 1:9). Revelation’s heartbeat remains profoundly pastoral: Jesus reigns, Jesus returns, and therefore the saints read, hear, keep, and “patiently endure” in holiness and hope (Rev 1:3; 13:10; 14:12).

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 84 - 29/08/25

This week we look at conspiracies and conspiracy theories.

This study doesn’t chase headlines; it asks how disciples should respond. Isaiah 8:11–13 sets the keynote: “Do not call conspiracy everything this people calls a conspiracy; do not fear what they fear… regard the LORD as holy.” Fear and fascination both distort focus. We resist anxiety and “insider” pride by fixing our hearts on the Lord.

Scripture acknowledges real conspiracies. Joseph’s brothers plotted (Gen 37:18–19). Absalom’s quiet coup spread by “secret messengers” (2 Sam 15:10–14). Jezebel staged false witnesses (1 Kgs 21). Plots rose against Jeremiah (Jer 11:9, 18–19) and Daniel through “lawfare” (Dan 6:1–9). In the New Testament, leaders plotted to kill Jesus (John 11:45–53) and swore to murder Paul (Acts 23:12–15). Common threads: secrecy, slander, power-seeking, and targeting the righteous.

Psalm 2 interprets the pattern: nations rage, rulers take counsel “against the LORD and His Anointed” (Ps 2:1–3). Hostility can be coordinated and visceral, yet God enthrones His King (Ps 2:6). Like Daniel, believers choose faithful, visible obedience over self-preservation (Dan 6:10), bearing witness without panic.

Jesus forewarned rising deception: “many will come… and mislead many,” and “many false prophets will arise” (Matt 24:5, 11, 25–26). The danger is not only worldly plots but counterfeit spirituality within the church. So we test the spirits (1 John 4:1) and imitate the Bereans who “examined the Scriptures daily” (Acts 17:11). Truth is measured by the Word and the true Christ, not by charisma or crowd size.

God equips us for clarity, not fear. He gives “power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Tim 1:7). With renewed, sober judgment (Rom 12:2–3), we refuse captivity to “philosophy and empty deceit” (Col 2:8), casting down arguments against the knowledge of God (2 Cor 10:3–5). Prideful “special knowledge” is a snare; humility and disciplined thinking keep us steady.

Practically, we draw holy boundaries. We reject occult avenues (Deut 18:9–14) and speculative numerology. Deuteronomy 29:29 is a guardrail: “The secret things belong to the LORD… but the things revealed belong to us… that we may do all the words of this law.” Our lane is obeying Scripture, trusting providence, praying for authorities, and guarding fellowship (Prov 3:5–7).

Bottom line: real conspiracies exist and deception will increase, but Christ reigns. Fix your eyes on Him, weigh everything by Scripture, keep a sound mind, and watch over one another in love (Gal 6:1–2). As we head into Revelation’s seven churches, these disciplines—fear of the Lord, discernment, and steadfast witness—will help us hear what the Spirit says and conquer by faithful obedience to Jesus.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 83 - 15/08/25

This week we conclude the study on the feasts of Israel.

1. Introduction to the Autumn Feasts

The Bible describes three autumn feasts in Leviticus 23: the Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah), the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), and the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). Just as the spring feasts were fulfilled in Christ’s first coming, it is understood that these autumn feasts point forward to His second coming. These feasts are a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal, and they serve as prophetic pictures of God’s plan for Israel and the nations.

2. The Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah)

Held on the first day of the seventh month (Lev. 23:23–25; Num. 29:1–6), this feast is marked by the blowing of the shofar as a call to repentance and a reminder of God’s coming judgment. Spiritually, it is associated with the “last trumpet” that signals the Lord’s return (1 Thess. 4:13–18; 1 Cor. 15:52). The trumpet in Scripture is often linked with God’s voice (Exod. 19:16–19; Rev. 1:10). Typologically, it points to Christ coming for His bride, echoing the Jewish wedding custom where the trumpet announced the arrival of the groom.

3. The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)

Ten days after the Feast of Trumpets comes the Day of Atonement (Lev. 23:27; Lev. 16). On this day, Israel was commanded to fast and repent while the high priest offered sacrifices. Two goats were central: one sacrificed, its blood sprinkled on the mercy seat, and the other—the scapegoat—sent into the wilderness, bearing the people’s sins (Lev. 16:20–22). This prefigures Christ’s atoning work: His blood cleanses us, and our sins are removed “as far as the east is from the west” (Ps. 103:12; Heb. 7:27; Heb. 10:17). Yet the ultimate fulfilment will come when Israel looks upon the One they pierced (Zech. 12:10; Rev. 1:7).

4. Typology of Atonement

The imagery of the two goats foreshadows Jesus and Barabbas at the crucifixion—one released, the other sacrificed. Jesus is the true scapegoat who carries away sin, and at the same time the final sacrifice whose blood brings complete atonement (Isa. 53:5–6). Unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant, His offering is once for all (Heb. 10:10–14). Believers today live in the “already but not yet”: Christ has paid for sin, yet the full consummation of redemption will be realized at His return, when sanctification gives way to glorification (Rom. 5:9; 1 John 3:2).

5. The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)

Beginning on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, this feast lasts seven days and commemorates Israel’s forty years of wilderness wanderings (Lev. 23:33–43). Families lived in temporary booths to remember God’s provision. It is both a harvest festival and a time of rejoicing—the only feast where joy is commanded. Jesus connected Himself to this feast when He declared, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink” (John 7:37–38), showing that He is the source of the living water symbolized in the ceremonies.

6. Prophetic Fulfilment of Tabernacles

Tabernacles points forward to God dwelling with His people. John wrote that “the Word became flesh and dwelt [tabernacled] among us” (John 1:14). Ultimately, it foreshadows the time when Christ will reign from Jerusalem and nations will go up yearly to celebrate this feast (Zech. 14:16). Revelation 7:9–17 portrays its heavenly fulfilment—God’s redeemed, from every nation, worshiping before His throne with palm branches, sheltered under His tabernacle presence.

7. The Eternal Hope in Christ

Together, these autumn feasts reveal God’s redemptive plan: the trumpet announcing Christ’s return, the atonement completed in Him, and the eternal joy of dwelling with God in His kingdom. They also teach that salvation is past, present, and future—we have been saved, we are being sanctified, and we will be glorified. The law was given to reveal sin (Rom. 7:7), but Christ has fulfilled its demands and provided a better covenant (Jer. 31:31–34; Heb. 8:6). The feasts remind us that though this life is temporary, the word of the Lord endures forever, and one day He will tabernacle with His people forever (Rev. 21:3–4).

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 82 - 01/08/25

In this week's study we begin to look at the topic of the Jewish feasts.

1. Biblical prophecy is not man-made; it is the Spirit-inspired revelation of God’s redemptive plan.

True prophecy never originates from human imagination or desire but comes as men are moved by the Holy Spirit to speak God’s word (2 Peter 1:20–21). It must align fully with Scripture and be tested by it. As God said in Deuteronomy 18:20–22, a prophet who speaks presumptuously or whose words do not come to pass is false. The group emphasised the danger of modern "soothsayers" who preach comfortable, flattering messages rather than the truth, and reminded each other to be discerning and rooted in Scripture when evaluating what is called prophecy today.

2. The feasts in Leviticus 23 form a divine calendar, prophetically revealing God’s plan through Christ.

These seven appointed times were not merely Jewish traditions but holy convocations commanded by God for remembrance, worship, and prophetic fulfilment. Leviticus 23 outlines them like a spiritual year planner—three in spring, one at summer, and three in autumn—each pointing forward to key moments in the gospel. Just as God established the lights in the heavens to mark seasons and days (Genesis 1:14), so He set these feasts in place to teach, remind, and prepare His people for the Messiah.

3. The Feast of Passover is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our perfect and sacrificial Lamb.

As Israel once marked their doorposts with lamb’s blood to be spared from death (Exodus 12:5–13), so we are saved from judgment by the blood of Christ, who is our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7). Jesus was crucified at the same time the Passover lambs were being offered in the temple (Mark 14:12), fulfilling the prophetic picture in perfect detail. His sinless life and willing sacrifice were foreshadowed in the Exodus and foretold in prophecy (1 Peter 1:19). Just as the blood delivered Israel from Egypt, so His blood sets us free from the bondage of sin and death (Romans 8:2).

4. The Feast of Unleavened Bread teaches us about holiness, repentance, and the sinlessness of Christ.

For seven days following Passover, Israel was to remove all leaven—symbolic of sin—from their homes and eat only unleavened bread (Leviticus 23:6–8; Exodus 12:15). Leaven puffs up by fermentation, which spiritually represents pride and corruption. Jesus, the sinless one, is the true Bread of Life (John 6:35), the fulfilment of this feast. Just as Israel cleansed their homes, we are called to cleanse our lives through repentance and walk in holiness. This feast illustrates that salvation is not only about being delivered, but also about being sanctified.

5. The Feast of Firstfruits foreshadows Jesus’ resurrection as the guarantee of ours.

Taking place on the Sunday after Passover, this feast involved waving the first sheaf of the harvest before the Lord as a declaration of the harvest to come (Leviticus 23:10–11). At the same time that the high priest was presenting the first fruits, Jesus was rising from the dead. He is the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20), the proof and promise that all who are in Him will likewise be raised. This feast points not backward, but forward in hope—a thanksgiving for what God is about to do, fulfilled perfectly in the resurrection.

6. The Feast of Pentecost marks the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church.

Also called the Feast of Weeks or Shavuot, Pentecost came fifty days after Firstfruits and celebrated the completion of the wheat harvest (Leviticus 23:15–16). On this day, the Holy Spirit was poured out on believers in Jerusalem, empowering them to proclaim the gospel and bringing in a harvest of 3,000 souls (Acts 2:1–4, 41). Pentecost thus fulfils the picture of spiritual harvest, just as the earlier feasts marked deliverance and new life. As Jesus promised, the Spirit came as our Helper and indwelling presence (John 14:16–17), sanctifying and equipping the Church for its mission.

7. These spring feasts are typological prophecies—shadows of Christ that are fulfilled precisely and meaningfully.

A typological prophecy points forward through historical events and institutions to their ultimate realisation in Jesus. Each spring feast—Passover, Unleavened Bread, Firstfruits, and Pentecost—was fulfilled on its exact calendar day in the life, death, resurrection, and empowering of Christ. As Colossians 2:16–17 states, these feasts were shadows, but the substance belongs to Christ. The study concluded by noting that the autumn feasts (Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles) remain yet to be fulfilled, likely in the same precise manner. Just as Jesus came once to fulfil the spring feasts, He will return to fulfil the rest.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 81 - 18/07/25

In this week's study we revisit the topic of discipleship.

1. Defining Discipleship: A Life of Love and Commitment

The study began with a reflection on the foundational question: What is a disciple? Drawing from John 13:35, it was established that love for one another is the primary outward sign of being Christ’s disciple. Participants explored how modern Western thinking tends to treat "disciple" as a label rather than a calling, and they emphasised that discipleship is deeply personal, not merely historical. The Greek root of “disciple” (μαθητής, mathētēs) implies a learner or follower under discipline—suggesting that discipleship involves intentional training, obedience, and transformation.

2. Old Testament Roots and the Rabbinical Model

Though the specific term "disciple" isn't used in the Old Testament, the concept is evident in the mentor-student relationships of figures like Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, and Jeremiah and Baruch. These examples provide a foundation for the New Testament model of discipleship. The rabbinic tradition of Jesus’ day—with followers emulating their teacher’s life and doctrine—was firmly rooted in Jewish culture, and Jesus adopted and transformed this model, calling people not just to learn, but to live in radical obedience to Him (cf. Matthew 4:19).

3. The Cost of Discipleship

The study explored Jesus’ stark demands, such as in Luke 14:33: “Whoever does not give up all he has cannot be my disciple.” This verse led to a discussion about the true cost of following Christ. It was emphasised that discipleship may involve surrendering status, possessions, or relationships. Yet this surrender is not necessarily about literal abandonment, but rather about no longer claiming ownership over anything—recognising God as the source and steward of all (cf. Matthew 16:24). This truth challenges comfortable Christianity and invites believers to examine whether they truly follow Christ or merely profess belief.

4. Discipleship Requires Ongoing Surrender

Discipleship was portrayed as a continual process of surrender and transformation. Several testified to life-altering experiences where they gave everything to God and witnessed both loss and restoration. This echoed Romans 12:1–2, which calls believers to present their lives as living sacrifices and not be conformed to the world. The parable in Luke 14:28–30 about counting the cost before building a tower was highlighted as a warning against superficial commitments to Christ. A key insight was that the depth of one’s surrender is often only revealed under testing.

5. Core Characteristics of a Disciple

A comprehensive list of scriptural characteristics was presented, identifying key traits of a disciple: imitation of Christ (Ephesians 5:1), love and compassion (John 3:16), obedience (1 John 2:5–6), humility (Philippians 2:3–8), prayer (Philippians 1:9–11), evangelism (Matthew 28:19–20), fellowship (Psalm 133:1), spiritual fruitfulness (Psalm 1:1–3), seeking God (Jeremiah 29:13), grace and forgiveness (Colossians 3:12–13), stewardship (1 Peter 4:10), and steadfastness (1 Corinthians 15:58). These were not merely ideals but goals to prayerfully pursue.

6. Discipleship vs. Cultural Christianity

Concerns were raised about how the modern church presents the gospel, often omitting the cost of discipleship and promoting “cheap grace.” Some lamented that discipleship has been reduced to a consumer-friendly message, lacking the reverence and awe due to God (Hebrews 12:28–29). The group discussed how this misrepresentation can lead to shallow conversions, as seen in John 6:66, where many stopped following Jesus when His teachings became too hard. A disciple must not only believe but also abide in Christ’s word (John 8:31–32).

7. The Call to Examine and Embrace True Discipleship

The session closed with a self-reflective call: Are we truly Christ’s disciples? Have we given everything? Do we walk in obedience, humility, and love toward one another? Discipleship is not about perfection but direction—a daily choosing to deny self, take up the cross, and follow Jesus. The participants were encouraged to let the Holy Spirit examine areas of weakness and invite God to work transformation. Ultimately, discipleship is about becoming more like Christ, for His glory and the building up of His church (Romans 8:29; Matthew 5:16).

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 80 - 04/07/25

This week we look at What the Bible Says About Jericho's Mini Apocalypse and how it relates to the past, present and future.

1. Jericho: Gateway to Inheritance and Judgment

Jericho, a strategically vital city with natural springs and trade routes, was the first Canaanite stronghold the Israelites encountered upon entering the Promised Land (Num. 22:1). Its geographical position “opposite Jericho” repeatedly marks key moments in Israel’s journey (Deut. 32:48–50). Moses viewed the Promised Land from Mount Nebo, opposite Jericho, but could not enter. The city's destruction was not random—it was the appointed threshold through which Israel stepped into God’s inheritance, and its fall was a picture of divine judgment and redemption.

2. The Crossing of the Jordan: A Miraculous Entry

The crossing of the Jordan mirrored the Red Sea event but signified new beginnings. The Ark of the Covenant led the way, stopping the waters so Israel could cross on dry ground (Josh. 3:14–17). Opposite Jericho, they entered the land—a symbolic act marking the beginning of a new covenant chapter. The priests stood firm, and twelve stones were set up as a memorial (Josh. 4:11–13), emphasising God’s faithfulness. The people of Jericho, seeing the miracle, were filled with fear, foreshadowing their coming judgment.

3. Rahab the Harlot: A Testimony of Faith and Salvation

Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute, showed remarkable faith by hiding the Israelite spies and acknowledging Yahweh as “God in heaven above and on earth beneath” (Josh. 2:11). She used the covenant name of God (YHWH) multiple times, indicating genuine understanding. Her faith and obedience led to her salvation and inclusion in Israel. The scarlet cord she hung in her window (Josh. 2:18) symbolized the blood of the lamb in the Passover (Exod. 12:13), pointing prophetically to Christ’s atonement. Rahab later became an ancestor of Jesus (Matt. 1:5), a testimony to God’s redeeming grace.

4. Divine Timing: The Fall of Jericho and the Feast of Firstfruits

The Israelites celebrated Passover at Gilgal near Jericho (Josh. 5:10–12), and on the day after, they ate the produce of the land. The manna ceased—a sign they had entered God’s provision. Remarkably, this was the third day after Passover, aligning with the Feast of Firstfruits (Lev. 23:10–11), the day Jesus rose from the dead (1 Cor. 15:20). On that day, Joshua encountered a divine figure—the “Commander of the Lord’s Army” (Josh. 5:13–15), whom many see as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, affirming that the coming battle belonged to the Lord.

5. Seven Days of Silence and the Trumpets of Judgment

The Lord instructed Joshua to march around Jericho once a day for six days, and seven times on the seventh day, led by seven priests blowing seven trumpets before the ark (Josh. 6:1–5). This silence followed by trumpets and a shout draws strong parallels with Revelation, where seven seals are opened, leading to seven trumpets (Rev. 8:1–2). Silence in heaven precedes judgment (Rev. 8:1), just as silence surrounded Jericho before its collapse. God’s presence—symbolised by the ark—was central in both the procession and the judgment.

6. Judgment, Rescue, and the Scarlet Thread of Redemption

As Israel shouted and the trumpets sounded, Jericho’s walls collapsed—except for Rahab’s house (Josh. 6:17–25). Rahab and her family were rescued because they were inside, marked by the scarlet cord. Her deliverance is a type of the Church’s rescue before judgment, just as Lot was taken out of Sodom (Gen. 19:15–17) and Noah entered the ark before the flood (Gen. 7:7). God’s wrath is real, but salvation precedes judgment for those who take refuge in His covenant. Rahab’s home—though built into the doomed wall—stood firm, a symbol of divine preservation.

7. Jericho as a Type of the Final Judgment

The story culminates in Revelation. Jesus, the Lamb, opens seven seals (Rev. 6:1), seven trumpets sound (Rev. 8:2), and a shout declares, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ” (Rev. 11:15). The parallel is clear: Jericho is a “mini-apocalypse,” a shadow of the final judgment to come. Rahab represents the gentile Church, rescued and grafted into the people of God (Rom. 11:17). Her salvation illustrates the gospel call: destruction is coming, but there is a scarlet cord—Christ’s blood—that saves (Rev. 7:14; Heb. 11:30–31). The message is binary: judgment or redemption. The time is now.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 79 - 20/06/25

This week we are continuing to look at Joshua, his life and ministry.

1. Joshua Was a Faithful Assistant Before Becoming a Leader

Before leading Israel, Joshua served faithfully under Moses. He is introduced as a military commander (Exodus 17) and later as Moses’ assistant (Exodus 24:13), accompanying him even partway up Sinai. His quiet loyalty and spiritual attentiveness prepared him for greater responsibility. His example reminds us that leadership in God’s kingdom grows out of faithful service.

2. Joshua Was a Man of Faith in a Generation of Fear

As one of the twelve spies, Joshua stood apart with Caleb, trusting God could give them the land despite the opposition (Numbers 13–14). While others focused on giants, Joshua focused on God's promises. He was willing to stand alone in faith, even when it meant waiting 40 years for the promise. His courage came from confidence in God's word, not in circumstances.

3. Joshua Was Commissioned and Empowered by God

God Himself chose Joshua as Moses’ successor, confirming this through Moses and later through direct words to Joshua. In Joshua 1, God tells him to be strong and courageous—not because of natural skill, but because of God’s presence and word. Joshua was filled with the Spirit (Numbers 27:18) and entrusted with leading a nation because his strength came from submission to the Lord.

4. Joshua Obeyed God Wholeheartedly

Joshua’s leadership is marked by precise obedience. At Jericho, he followed God’s unusual battle plan without question (Joshua 6). Even when sin brought defeat at Ai, Joshua sought God’s guidance and acted decisively (Joshua 7). He did not rely on human strategy but on God’s direction, showing a heart that feared the Lord more than public opinion or logic.

5. Joshua Prioritised God’s Word

In Joshua 1:8, Joshua is commanded to meditate on God’s law. He models this by renewing the covenant at Mount Ebal (Joshua 8:34–35) and ensuring that God’s Word governed their conquest and settlement. Joshua knew that success depended not on power or planning but on alignment with God’s revealed will.

6. Joshua Pointed the People Toward Holiness

Joshua’s zeal for holiness shaped his leadership. He was grieved by compromise, as seen in the Gibeonite deception (Joshua 9), and took decisive steps to preserve Israel’s distinctiveness. He expected covenant faithfulness and held Israel accountable, refusing to tolerate half-hearted obedience. His leadership challenged Israel to choose whom they would serve.

7. Joshua Finished Faithfully

At the end of his life, Joshua gave a clear and powerful charge to the nation. His words in Joshua 24:15—“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”—sum up his unwavering devotion. He died having fulfilled all that God asked of him, and Israel served the Lord throughout his lifetime. Joshua’s legacy is not just military success but spiritual steadfastness.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 78 - 06/06/25

This week we are looking at Joshua, his life and ministry.

1. Joshua Was a Servant Before a Leader

Joshua’s leadership began with faithful service under Moses. He first appears in Exodus 17, leading Israel’s army against Amalek under Moses’ direction. He is described as Moses’ assistant (Exodus 24:13, Numbers 11:28), learning humility and obedience long before being given authority. True biblical leadership starts with serving, not striving for position.

2. Joshua Trusted God When Others Did Not

When the twelve spies were sent into Canaan, only Joshua and Caleb returned with faith, urging Israel to trust in God's promise (Numbers 14:6–9). While the others feared giants, Joshua believed God's word was greater than their enemies. His faith was costly—he waited 40 years in the wilderness—but God honoured him for it.

3. Joshua Was Empowered and Commissioned by God

Before entering the land, Joshua was commissioned to lead Israel. God told him repeatedly to “be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6–9), not because of his strength, but because God would be with him. His leadership was rooted in God’s presence, not personal ability—a reminder that spiritual authority must be grounded in dependence on the Lord.

4. Joshua Led with Obedience and Reverence

Joshua obeyed God's commands without compromise. At Jericho, he followed divine strategy, not military logic (Joshua 6). After Achan’s sin caused Israel’s defeat at Ai, Joshua responded with repentance and inquiry, not self-confidence (Joshua 7). He continually sought God’s will and submitted to it, revealing a leader who feared the Lord more than the opinions of men.

5. Joshua Was a Man of the Word

In Joshua 1:8, God commands him to meditate on the Law day and night. Joshua obeys this throughout his life, renewing the covenant, reading the Law to the people (Joshua 8:34–35), and dividing the land in accordance with God's word. His life teaches that strong leadership requires strong devotion to Scripture.

6. Joshua Was Zealous for Holiness

When the Gibeonites deceived Israel, Joshua kept his oath but held them accountable (Joshua 9). He expected Israel to live as a holy people, distinct from the nations. He confronted compromise and challenged half-heartedness, showing that true godliness involves hard decisions and consistent integrity.

7. Joshua Finished Well

At the end of his life, Joshua publicly reaffirmed his loyalty to God and called others to do the same. His famous words in Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” show his enduring commitment. He didn’t just start strong—he finished faithfully. His life is a model of endurance, leadership, and covenant faithfulness.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 77 - 23/05/25

Tonight we will be looking at the biblical perspective of "the Sabbath"

1. The Sabbath Was Established by God at Creation

The Sabbath is not a human invention but a divine institution. In Genesis 2:2–3, God Himself rested on the seventh day, setting it apart as holy. He did not rest due to fatigue but to model a rhythm of work and rest for humanity. The Sabbath reminds us that rest is not laziness—it is worshipful acknowledgment that God is our Provider, not our own effort.

2. The Sabbath Was Commanded Under the Law

God formalised the Sabbath in the Ten Commandments: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8–11). It was a covenant sign between God and Israel, reflecting creation and redemption. Just as God delivered Israel from Egypt (Deuteronomy 5:15), so Sabbath rest pointed to the rest God gives His people from bondage and toil.

3. The Sabbath Was Made for Man’s Good

Jesus taught that “the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). It was not meant to be a burden, but a blessing—a gift for human well-being. It allows time to stop striving, delight in God, and remember that we are more than our labour. The Sabbath teaches us to trust God’s provision and to prioritise worship and fellowship.

4. The Sabbath Exposed the Heart

By the time of Jesus, the Sabbath had become weighed down with legalism. The Pharisees added rules that missed the heart of the law. But Jesus, as “Lord of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:28), exposed how rigid observance can harden hearts. True Sabbath-keeping was always meant to express love for God and neighbour, not box-ticking religion.

5. Jesus Fulfilled the True Meaning of Sabbath

In Christ, the Sabbath finds its deeper fulfilment. He invites the weary to find rest in Him (Matthew 11:28–30), and through His finished work, we enter spiritual rest. Hebrews 4:9–10 speaks of a Sabbath rest that remains for God’s people—not just a day, but a life lived from grace, not striving. Jesus is our eternal rest from sin and self-effort.

6. The Early Church Met on the First Day of the Week

After the resurrection, believers began gathering on the first day—Sunday—in remembrance of Christ’s victory over death (Acts 20:7, 1 Corinthians 16:2). Though not a command to keep a new Sabbath, it marks a shift: from law to grace, from shadow to substance. Christians rest in Christ, yet many still value setting apart time to worship and reflect weekly.

7. Sabbath Principles Still Apply Today

While Christians are not under obligation to observe the Sabbath as ancient Israel did, the principle of rest, worship, and consecrated time remains vital. Colossians 2:16–17 warns against judging others over Sabbath observance, but it also reminds us that the Sabbath points to something greater—Christ Himself. Practicing regular rest and worship is still essential in a restless, work-driven world.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 76 - 09/05/25

What is "Same sex attraction"? Is it a problem to God? Love is Love - isn't it? We look at all these topics from a biblical perspective in this study.

1. God Is the Creator and Designer of Sexuality

God created sexuality as a good gift, to be expressed within the covenant of male-female marriage. He made humans male and female in His image (Genesis 1:27) and established marriage as a union between the two sexes (Genesis 2:24). God alone defines what is good and right in sexual expression. When we step outside that design, we are not just breaking rules—we are rejecting our Creator’s intent.

2. Same-Sex Attraction Is a Result of the Fall

Like all disordered desires, same-sex attraction is not part of God’s original design but entered the human experience through sin. Romans 1:24–27 describes how idolatry leads to distorted passions, including same-sex desire. These attractions are not the worst sin, but they are unnatural in that they go against the created order. The presence of these desires reveals how deep the effects of sin run in every human heart.

3. Temptation Itself Is Not Sin, But Acting on It Is

Experiencing same-sex attraction is not in itself a sin, but embracing, justifying, or acting upon it is. Jesus was tempted, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15). Believers may face deep and ongoing temptations—including in the area of sexuality—but are called to resist them in faith. James 1:14–15 shows that sin comes not from the temptation, but from yielding to it and letting it take root.

4. The Gospel Offers Both Forgiveness and Transformation

No matter what our past or present struggle, the gospel is sufficient. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 makes clear that some in the early church were formerly engaged in same-sex behavior, but they were “washed,” “sanctified,” and “justified.” In Christ, no one is defined by their temptations or past sins. There is cleansing, a new identity, and ongoing transformation by the Spirit of God.

5. Following Jesus Means Denying Self, Not Indulging It

Christian discipleship involves dying to self and living for Christ, especially in areas where desires conflict with God’s Word. Luke 9:23 calls us to take up our cross daily. This includes our sexual desires. Living a celibate life in obedience to Christ may be costly, but Jesus promises it is worth it. True freedom is not found in self-expression, but in surrender to the One who made us.

6. The Church Must Be a Place of Truth and Grace

Believers struggling with same-sex attraction need the Church to speak the truth clearly and extend Christlike compassion. Ephesians 4:15 calls us to speak the truth in love. Jesus did not condone sin, but He welcomed sinners with mercy and called them to repentance (John 8:11). The Church must be a place where it’s safe to confess, grow, and walk in holiness together.

7. Our Hope Is in Christ, Not in the Changing of Feelings

The goal is not merely to suppress same-sex attraction or hope it goes away, but to grow in love for Christ and obedience to His Word. Galatians 5:16 teaches that walking by the Spirit helps us not gratify the desires of the flesh. God may bring change in our desires—or He may not—but He always provides grace to endure and strength to live faithfully. Our hope is not in heterosexuality, but in holiness.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 75 - 25/04/25

This week we are continuing our study into sex and sexuality - this week's topic is a look at Sexual Identity from a biblical perspective.

1. God Alone Defines Human Identity

Sexual identity begins with the truth that God, not man, is the Creator and Lawgiver. We are not self-authored. Genesis 1:27 shows that male and female were created in God’s image. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us that our bodies are not our own—we were bought with a price. Any attempt to define ourselves apart from God is rebellion against His rightful rule.

2. Sexual Identity Is Rooted in Creation, Not Desire

Our sexual identity is not determined by feelings, attractions, or inner impulses, but by God’s created design. In Genesis 2:24, man and woman are united in marriage as “one flesh”—God’s good plan for sexual expression. Psalm 139:13–16 confirms that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, male or female, from the womb, by God’s design.

3. The Fall Distorted, but Did Not Redefine, Sexuality

Sin has affected every part of human life, including our desires and sense of identity. Yet the Fall did not erase God’s design—it only introduced confusion and distortion. Romans 1:24–27 shows that turning from God results in dishonouring the body and unnatural desires. Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful. We must not follow it—we must be renewed in truth.

4. True Identity Is Found in Christ, Not Sexual Preference

In Christ, we receive a new identity—not defined by past behaviour, feelings, or desires, but by being a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares that anyone in Christ is made new. Galatians 2:20 says, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” Our truest self is not what we feel, but who we are in Christ.

5. The Body Matters: We Glorify God With It

Sexual identity is not just internal; it is lived out in the body. Scripture affirms the goodness and purpose of the body, and condemns all sexual sin—heterosexual or homosexual—that departs from God’s design. 1 Corinthians 6:13–18 calls us to flee sexual immorality and glorify God in our bodies. Romans 12:1 urges us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices.

6. The Church Must Speak Truth With Compassion

The Church must neither affirm sin nor ignore suffering. We are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), offering both correction and hope. Jesus did not condemn the sexually broken, but neither did He excuse sin (John 8:11). We must uphold biblical truth while showing the grace of Christ to those struggling with sexual identity.

7. The Gospel Offers Power to Change and Grace to Persevere

There is real hope for all who turn to Christ. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in those who believe. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 lists former sexual sinners who were “washed… sanctified… justified.” Transformation is possible, and ongoing grace is available, as we walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), not the flesh.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 74 - 11/04/25

This week we are looking at the difficult and very topical subject of Gender.

1. God Alone Defines Gender and Identity

God is the Creator and Owner of all life. Human beings do not belong to themselves but to God, who formed them with purpose and design. This includes our identity as male or female. As Genesis 1:27 states, God made humans “male and female” in His image. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us that we are not our own but were bought with a price, and therefore should glorify God with our bodies. Gender is not self-assigned; it is a God-given identity.

2. Gender Is Fixed and Rooted in Creation

From the start, God established two fixed sexes—male and female—as part of His good creation. These distinctions are foundational to human purpose and flourishing. In Genesis 1:26–28, God commands mankind to be fruitful and multiply, a task that requires male and female together. Genesis 2:18–24 shows the intentional difference and unity between man and woman, revealing gender as a deliberate and unchanging aspect of creation.

3. Men and Women Have Complementary Roles

Men and women are equal in value yet distinct in role, both by design and calling. These differences are not cultural constructs but divine appointments that reflect God's wisdom. 1 Peter 3:7 calls husbands to live with their wives in understanding, acknowledging their differences. Ephesians 5:22–33 shows how marriage reflects Christ and the Church. Distinct roles, when rightly understood, are not oppressive but glorify God through harmony and service.

4. Society Rejects God’s Design

Modern culture increasingly denies God’s pattern for gender and identity. What was once clear is now confused, even within some churches. But Jesus reaffirms God’s original intent in Matthew 19:4–6, pointing back to creation: “He who made them at the beginning made them male and female.” No matter how strong the cultural pressure, believers must hold to Scripture, not societal trends, as their final authority.

5. Gender Confusion Reflects Rebellion

The confusion around gender and sexuality is not merely a social issue—it reveals spiritual rebellion. Romans 1:18–32 describes how people suppress the truth, reject God, and are given over to degrading passions and a debased mind. Daniel 5:23 illustrates this rebellion in Belshazzar, who ignored the God who held his breath. When people reject God's design, they do not become free—they become enslaved to sin and confusion.

6. God’s Image Is Seen in Gender Distinction

Only humans bear God's image, and this image is expressed in the distinction between male and female. Even creation itself shows God's order and purpose (Romans 1:20), but humans uniquely reflect Him. Genesis 1:27 links being made in God’s image with being male and female. Satan attacks this design because he hates what reflects God. Confusion in gender is not found in animals, but it is tragically growing among those made in God’s likeness.

7. We Must Hold the Truth with Conviction and Love

In a culture that celebrates confusion, Christians must be anchored in God’s unchanging truth. Hebrews 2:1 warns us not to drift but to cling to what we’ve heard. John 8:31–32 reminds us that true freedom comes through abiding in Christ’s Word. We may not always have clever arguments, but firm belief and gracious conviction are powerful witnesses. Even when others reject God’s ways, we must remain faithful, trusting His Word above all.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 73 - 28/03/25

This week we take a look at the topic of Angels.

1. Angels Exist and Always Have

Angels are created spiritual beings, present from the beginning of creation. They were already rejoicing when God laid the foundations of the earth (Job 38:7), and their existence is affirmed throughout Scripture—even as early as Genesis and as late as Revelation.

2. Belief in Angels Has Always Divided People

Even within religious communities, belief in angels has been disputed. The Sadducees denied the existence of angels, unlike the Pharisees who affirmed them (Acts 23:8–9), showing that scepticism toward angels is not a new phenomenon.

3. Angels Are Named and Differentiated

Only three angels are named in the Bible: Gabriel, the messenger (Luke 1:19; Daniel 8:16), Michael, the warrior and protector of Israel (Daniel 10:21; Jude 9), and Lucifer, traditionally identified with Satan (Isaiah 14:12). These named angels each have specific roles and representations in God’s plan.

4. Angels Are Created, Not Eternal or Omniscient

Angels were created by Christ and for Him, along with all other invisible and visible powers (Colossians 1:16). They are not all-knowing—Jesus says even the angels do not know the timing of His return (Matthew 24:36).

5. Angels Are Ministering Spirits and Guardians

Angels serve believers, offering protection, guidance, and encouragement. They are described as “ministering spirits sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14), and Jesus spoke of children's angels who always see the face of the Father (Matthew 18:10).

6. Angels Reflect God’s Glory and Obey His Will

Angels are worshippers who obey God perfectly and do His will without question. Psalm 103:20 praises “His angels, mighty in strength, who perform His word, obeying the voice of His word.” Their focus is always to point creation back to God, not to themselves (Revelation 19:10).

7. Angels Are Involved in the Outworking of Salvation

Angels are active throughout the redemptive story: announcing births (Luke 1:26–38), protecting the faithful (Daniel 6:22; Acts 12:7–11), and rejoicing when a sinner repents (Luke 15:10). They were present at Jesus' birth, His resurrection, and will come with Him at His return (Luke 2:13–14; Matthew 28:2–7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16).

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 72 - 14/03/25

Today we are taking a look at what the bible says about communion.

The Distinction Between Passover and Communion

Passover was instituted in Exodus 12:14 as a lasting ordinance for the Jewish people, commemorating their deliverance from Egypt through the blood of a lamb. Communion, as introduced by Jesus in Luke 22:19–20, marks the New Covenant and is for all believers. The key difference is that Passover was national and historical, while Communion is global and redemptive, pointing to Christ’s sacrificial death.

Covenants and Contracts

Biblical covenants, like the one God made with Abraham, are not mere agreements but solemn, relational promises. The term “cut a covenant” (Genesis 15:9–10) reflects the seriousness, sealed with blood. Unlike a contract, a covenant involves identity and commitment, particularly between a greater (God) and a lesser (human) party (Hebrews 6:13–17). This deeper commitment shows God’s grace in choosing to bind Himself to us.

God’s Covenant with Abraham

In Genesis 15:12–18, God alone passes between the sacrificial pieces, symbolized by a smoking fire pot and blazing torch, indicating that the covenant depends solely on Him. Abraham, in a deep sleep, plays no active role, highlighting that the promise is unconditional. This covenant becomes foundational for understanding God’s redemptive plan, later fulfilled in Christ (Galatians 3:16).

Passover: The Covenant Ratified in Egypt

In Exodus 12:21–23, God instructed the Israelites to mark their doors with lamb’s blood so the destroyer would pass over them. This act of obedience ratified their deliverance and echoed God’s promises to Abraham. The blood was essential, for Hebrews 9:22 says, “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” This Passover event foreshadowed Christ’s own role as the Lamb of God (John 1:29).

The New Covenant Foretold

Through Jeremiah 31:31–34, God promised a New Covenant unlike the one made at Sinai. This would not be based on external law, but internal transformation—God’s law written on hearts, sins forgiven, and relationship restored. This promise is fulfilled in Christ (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8:6–13), and through Him, Gentile believers are grafted into the promises made to Israel (Romans 11:17–24).

The Fulfilment at the Last Supper

At the Last Supper, Jesus redefined the Passover meal in Luke 22:15–20, offering bread and wine as symbols of His body and blood. This was a clear declaration that His death would establish the New Covenant. The cup He shared aligns with the third Passover cup—the “cup of redemption.” His body, like the unleavened Passover bread, was pierced and bruised (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26).

Communion Today: A Meal of Life and Unity

Communion today is a continuation of what the early church practiced in Acts 2:42, where believers devoted themselves to the breaking of bread. Jesus’ words in John 6:53–56 emphasize that unless we spiritually partake in His body and blood, we have no life. This is not about literal flesh and blood, but about intimate union with Christ. Paul also warns in 1 Corinthians 11:27–29 that we must examine ourselves to partake in a worthy manner—acknowledging the sacredness of the Lord’s body.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 71 - 28/02/25

This week we continue our look at the life of Paul.

1. Paul on Trial Again — Standing Before Governors

This second study in our series on Paul picks up with him under arrest in Caesarea, standing before Governor Felix. The charges against him are brought by the high priest Ananias and a Roman lawyer named Tertullus, who presents a political and religious case based on flattery and falsehoods. Paul, in contrast, calmly defends his integrity and clarifies that his real offense is belief in the resurrection — a central part of Christian hope. His words show the growing divide between religious tradition and the gospel.

2. Courageous Clarity and the Cost of Integrity

Paul’s defence before Felix is bold, clear, and respectful. He affirms his belief in the Law and the Prophets and emphasizes a clear conscience before God. Though innocent, he remains imprisoned — not because of guilt, but because of politics and corruption. This stage of Paul’s journey highlights how following Christ sometimes means prolonged injustice, yet Paul shows no sign of compromise or complaint.

3. Felix's Fear and Conviction

Felix listens to Paul more than once, particularly intrigued when Paul speaks of righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. Felix is deeply disturbed but remains unchanged — a powerful reminder that conviction is not the same as repentance. Paul's faithfulness in delivering the whole truth, even to those in power, sets a strong example of fearless gospel witness.

4. A Strategic Appeal to Caesar

With a new governor in place, Paul’s situation could easily have worsened — especially as the Jewish leaders press again for his execution. Instead of risking an ambush, Paul exercises his Roman citizenship and appeals to Caesar. This wasn’t merely a legal strategy but a Spirit-led decision that aligns with Jesus’ earlier promise that Paul would testify in Rome. Paul uses both his rights and his discernment to remain on mission.

5. Gospel Witness in the Courts of the Powerful

As Festus brings Paul before King Agrippa and his sister Bernice, Paul finds himself in front of a powerful yet morally compromised audience. With no legal case against him, Paul seizes the opportunity not to defend himself — but to share his testimony and preach Christ. His speech shows remarkable courage and purpose: to persuade all, both great and small, to believe in Jesus.

6. “Not Disobedient to the Heavenly Vision”

Paul recounts his conversion on the road to Damascus, describing how Jesus called him to turn people from darkness to light. This moment is a cornerstone in understanding Paul’s life — everything he does flows from obedience to that vision. Before royalty and sceptics, Paul remains unwavering, proving that his apostleship and mission are rooted in God’s call, not personal ambition.

7. Paul: Chained Yet Unshaken

Though in chains, Paul speaks with more freedom than anyone else in the room. He doesn’t beg for release or seek favour; instead, he prays that all his listeners might become as he is — a follower of Christ. This second study reaffirms Paul’s unwavering commitment to the gospel. His chains do not silence him; they amplify his witness. In every trial, he sees opportunity — and that’s a mark of true gospel transformation.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 70 - 14/02/25

This week we are looking at Paul the apostle.

Paul's Origins and Persecution of the Church

Paul (formerly Saul) first appears at the stoning of Stephen, actively persecuting the early church (Acts 7–8). His background as a zealous Pharisee and student of Gamaliel highlights both his religious dedication and his initial hostility toward Christians. This foundational background showcases the depth of transformation he later experiences.

A Radical Conversion Experience (Acts 9)

On the road to Damascus, Paul encounters the risen Jesus in a dramatic, supernatural moment. Blinded and humbled, he receives both physical and spiritual sight through Ananias. His immediate baptism and preaching demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit in conversion—he moves from persecutor to preacher overnight.

The Role of Grace and Transformation

Paul's story is a striking example of God's grace. His past isn't hidden but acknowledged as a testimony to God’s mercy. His radical transformation is used to emphasize that salvation comes not through merit, but by grace through faith in Christ alone. Paul's humility remains throughout his ministry.

Empowered by the Spirit, Not Just Knowledge

Though Paul had extensive knowledge of the Scriptures prior to his conversion, it is only through the Holy Spirit that he truly understands and applies them. His story underscores that genuine understanding of God’s Word comes through spiritual revelation, not just intellect.

God’s Sovereignty in Paul's Trials and Journey

As Paul faces opposition, arrests, and trials, God sovereignly protects him and directs his steps—including sending him to testify before rulers and ultimately to Rome. The study draws attention to how God used even opposition to fulfil His purpose for Paul.

Authenticity and Suffering in Ministry

Paul's honesty about his past and his endurance through suffering offer a model of authentic Christian faith. Like other biblical figures (Peter, Abraham), Paul's flaws are not hidden but used to highlight God's faithfulness. His trials reveal what’s truly in him—faith, Scripture, and steadfastness.

The Power of the Gospel and the Centrality of Scripture

Paul's letters and sermons consistently centre on the unchangeable gospel of Jesus Christ. His knowledge of Scripture, empowered by the Spirit, allowed him to “prove” that Jesus was the Christ. The study emphasized the need for believers today to be deeply rooted in Scripture, trusting the Spirit to recall it and apply it in real life.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 69 - 31/01/25

This week we continue to look at the life of Samson.

1. Spiritual failure often begins with compromise, not collapse.

Samson's descent didn’t begin with Delilah—it started with small steps of disobedience, like visiting a harlot in Gaza (Judges 16:1). His choices gradually distanced him from God's standard, illustrating Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way which seems right to a person, but its end is the way of death.”

2. Repeated sin can dull spiritual discernment.

Despite Delilah's clear betrayal, Samson remained with her and shared more of his heart each time (Judges 16:6–17). His tolerance of deception revealed a heart drifting from wisdom, echoing Proverbs 6:26 and 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”

3. The power of God is not proof of God's approval.

Samson's strength remained even as his obedience declined, showing that spiritual gifts can still operate temporarily amid disobedience (Judges 16:3, 9, 12). Like Moses striking the rock (Numbers 20:11–12), results are no substitute for obedience—God weighs the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

4. God gives many chances, but hardened hearts can still fall.

Delilah "pestered him daily" (Judges 16:16), and though this could have been a warning to flee, Samson stayed. Scripture warns, “He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck will suddenly be broken beyond healing” (Proverbs 29:1), showing God’s patience has a limit.

5. The most tragic losses can happen unnoticed.

When Samson said, “I will go out as at other times,” he did not know that the Lord had left him (Judges 16:20). This sobering moment recalls Revelation 3:17, where self-deception blinds people to their spiritual poverty: “You do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.”

6. God is merciful and restores the repentant.

Despite his failure, Samson’s hair began to grow again (Judges 16:22)—a symbol of God’s grace and readiness to restore. His prayer in verse 28 and his final act of deliverance show that God hears the humble (James 4:6) and finishes His purposes even in broken vessels (2 Timothy 2:21).

7. It’s not how you start—it’s how you finish.

Though Samson’s journey was filled with failure, he died fulfilling his calling and is listed among the heroes of faith (Hebrews 11:32). His story affirms Ecclesiastes 7:8: “The end of a matter is better than its beginning,” and encourages us to run our race with endurance (Hebrews 12:1).

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 68 - 17/01/25

This Week we are looking at the life of Samson.

Samson’s Story Is Our Story

The life of Samson in Judges 13–16 was not written for his benefit, but for ours (Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:11). His journey reflects our own spiritual walk, with all its ups and downs. As we study his story, the right posture is not to criticize, but to ask, “Lord, what are you showing me about myself?”

Chosen and Set Apart from Birth

Samson’s birth was miraculous and marked by divine calling (Judges 13:3–5). The angel instructed his mother to avoid anything unclean because the child would be a Nazarite from the womb. In the same way, believers are spiritually reborn and chosen to fulfill God's purpose (Ephesians 2:10; Jeremiah 1:5).

The Nazarite Vow and Christian Consecration

Numbers 6:1–8 outlines the Nazarite vow—voluntary, visible separation unto God. Though not binding today, the principle applies: as those consecrated to God in Christ, our lives should reflect holiness and devotion (Romans 12:1–2; 1 Peter 1:15–16). The vow was a model of visible distinction in lifestyle, just as Christian living should be.

The Danger of Disregarding God’s Standards

Samson’s desire to marry a Philistine woman (Judges 14:1–3) was against Israelite law (Deuteronomy 7:3–4). Though God used it to confront the Philistines (Judges 14:4), the choice still represented disobedience. 2 Corinthians 6:14–15 reminds us not to be unequally yoked—God’s purposes do not justify going against His commands.

Growth Precedes Empowerment

Judges 13:24–25 tells us that Samson grew and was blessed by the Lord, and only then did the Spirit begin to stir him. Likewise, Luke 2:40 and 1 Samuel 2:26 highlight the growth and spiritual maturity of Jesus and Samuel before their ministries began. Spiritual growth is the foundation for fruitful service.

God’s Spirit Empowers Us, Not Our Strength

Samson’s acts of power (tearing the lion in Judges 14:5–6; killing 1,000 men with a jawbone in Judges 15:14–15) only happened when the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Zechariah 4:6 emphasizes that God's work is accomplished “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” reminding us that true strength comes from Him.

Don’t Discard What God Has Used

After achieving great victory with the jawbone of a donkey, Samson threw it away (Judges 15:17). This prompted a reflection in the study: we must not discard the very Word or tools God uses to equip and strengthen us (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Proverbs 4:13). Instead, we should hold fast to what has nourished and shaped our faith.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 67 - 22/11/24

This week we are looking at Joseph, Jacob's son.

Joseph's Special Position (Genesis 37:3-4): Joseph was deeply loved by his father, Jacob, who gave him a distinctive tunic. This favouritism caused envy among his brothers, paralleling God's declaration of Jesus as His "beloved Son" (Matthew 3:17).

Dreams and Prophecy (Genesis 37:5-11): Joseph's prophetic dreams foretold his future rise and his family's submission, causing tension with his brothers. This mirrors Jesus' mission and foreknowledge of His role as Saviour.

Betrayal for Silver (Genesis 37:26-28): Joseph was sold into slavery for 20 shekels of silver, foreshadowing Jesus' betrayal by Judas for 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15). Both betrayals were acts of evil that God used for ultimate good.

False Accusations and Suffering (Genesis 39:10-20): Falsely accused by Potiphar's wife, Joseph was imprisoned, resembling Jesus' unjust trial and condemnation (Mark 14:55-59). Despite their innocence, both suffered to fulfil God's plan.

Exaltation to Power (Genesis 41:41-43): Joseph rose to power as Pharaoh's right-hand man, saving many during a famine. Similarly, Jesus was exalted to sit at the right hand of the Father, bringing salvation to all who believe (Ephesians 1:20-22).

Provision for All Nations (Genesis 41:56-57): Joseph provided grain to the entire world during the famine. This echoes Jesus as the "bread of life," offering eternal sustenance to those who come to Him (John 6:35).

Reconciliation and Redemption (Genesis 50:20): Joseph forgave his brothers, recognizing God's hand in their actions for a greater good. This reflects Jesus' forgiveness on the cross: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). Through Joseph's trials, God preserved life; through Jesus' sacrifice, He provided eternal life.

This study beautifully illustrates how Joseph's life serves as a type and shadow of Jesus, highlighting God's sovereign plan of redemption woven throughout scripture.

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 66 - 08/11/24

This week we begin to look at characters from the Bible - Today, it's Jonah.

The Simplicity of God’s Word: God desires that we approach His Word with humility, appreciating its simplicity while gleaning profound lessons for our lives (2 Corinthians 11:3).

The Word of God Comes to All: Jonah’s story reminds us that God’s Word can come to anyone, regardless of their position. This challenges us to listen and respond with obedience (Jonah 1:1, Luke 3:2).

Disobedience Leads Away from God: Jonah’s attempt to flee from God highlights how disobedience draws us away from His presence. The further Jonah fled, the deeper he fell—away from God and into trouble (Jonah 1:3, Psalm 139:7–10).

The Consequences of Sin Affect Others: Jonah’s disobedience caused turmoil for those around him. His actions disrupted the lives of the sailors, demonstrating that our sins can have far-reaching effects (Jonah 1:4–5).

The Call to Repentance and Mercy: God’s mercy is always available, even when we disobey. Jonah’s prayer in the belly of the fish shows the importance of repentance and God’s readiness to forgive (Jonah 2:1–2, Psalm 50:15, Psalm 91:15).

Recognizing Our Role in God’s Plan: Jonah was called to deliver God’s message to Nineveh despite his reluctance. This reminds us to trust in God’s purposes, knowing He equips us for His work (Jonah 1:2, Isaiah 55:8–9).

Personal Reflection and Boldness in Faith: We are challenged to examine our own hearts and be bold in living out our faith. Just as Jonah’s disobedience highlighted his fears, we must overcome fear and faithfully proclaim God’s truth (2 Timothy 1:7, Matthew 5:14–16).

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 65 - 25/10/24

This week we look at "The Heart of God".

Topic and Purpose: Tonight, we are studying the heart of God as revealed in the Bible, inspired by the book Gentle and Lowly, which draws insights from 17th-century Puritan writings. Our focus is on understanding God’s heart through His Word, particularly His love and compassion (Matthew 11:28-30).

Approach to Study: We approach this study by bringing together scriptures without a specific agenda, allowing us to explore openly and without bias what the Bible reveals about God's heart. This method emphasizes the richness and depth of God’s Word (Jeremiah 31:20).

God’s Goodness in Creation: In Genesis 1:31, we see that everything God created was “very good,” showing His delight and generosity in sharing the goodness of creation with humanity, especially before the fall. This highlights God’s benevolent heart toward us and His desire for us to enjoy His gifts (Psalm 103:13).

Mercy and Justice: God's character is balanced between mercy and justice. In Exodus 34:6-7, God describes Himself as “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” Yet, He also affirms that He does not leave the guilty unpunished. This reveals the necessity of repentance and trust in His grace for true restoration (Isaiah 55:6-9).

God’s Invitation: God invites us to seek Him while He may be found (Isaiah 55:6). His ways and thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9), yet His forgiveness is abundant, and His mercy is vast. He calls us to turn from our ways and return to Him, demonstrating His desire for relationship and reconciliation.

Jesus’ Gentle and Lowly Heart: Jesus describes His own heart in Matthew 11:28-30 as “gentle and lowly.” He invites us to come to Him with our burdens, assuring us that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. This shows that He walks alongside us, guiding us with compassion, patience, and humility.

Encouragement in God’s Faithfulness: Despite our failures, God remains patient and faithful. Lamentations 3:31-33 reminds us that God “does not willingly bring affliction” and that His compassion is unfailing. This encourages us to return to Him, as His heart is always inclined toward mercy and restoration.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Nw5_XX-sPTzu4Wt58RFGr9vZ_YRPxDc9/view?usp=drive_link

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Episode 64 - 11/10/24

This week we tackle the second session on forgiveness.

We began with a prayer, asking for guidance and wisdom to understand God's Word, particularly on the topic of forgiveness.

Last time, we examined forgiveness in the Old Testament, focusing on God's mercy towards Israel and individual stories like Joseph and David.

Tonight, we are exploring New Testament teachings on forgiveness, starting with Matthew 18:21-35, where Jesus tells the parable of the unforgiving servant.

The parable highlights how much we've been forgiven by God, and how that should compel us to forgive others, even when it feels difficult.

We reflected on the challenge of forgiving from the heart, acknowledging that it is not just a verbal act, but one that requires a true change in our inner spirit.

Jesus' command to forgive from the heart emphasizes that forgiveness is essential for maintaining our relationship with God, and unforgiveness can create a barrier between us and God.

We concluded by discussing the transformative power of forgiveness, how it frees us, and how we are called to forgive as God has forgiven us, inspired by Christ’s example on the cross.

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VfB3y3qVI1v42UhnAOV_laU9x-nnDrGq/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 63 - 27/09/24

This week we tackle the first session on forgiveness.

We start by acknowledging God's sovereignty and thank Him for bringing us together. We commit this meeting to Him, praying for His guidance and healing, especially for those among us who are struggling, like Tim with his injury.

We reflect on how, despite our many Bible studies, we’ve surprisingly never focused on forgiveness as its own topic. Although we’ve touched on it through other discussions, it’s clear that this is a crucial subject we need to explore more deeply.

We dive into Joseph’s story and the profound forgiveness he showed his brothers after their betrayal. We realize that Joseph’s example teaches us how God can bring good from bad, even when we face painful conflicts, especially within our families.

We discuss the emotional and spiritual struggles we all face when it comes to forgiveness, acknowledging how difficult it can be when deeply hurt. Yet, we recognize that as Christians, we are called to forgive unconditionally, just as God forgives us.

We consider whether forgiveness sometimes feels conditional, but ultimately, we know that it shouldn't be. The Bible reminds us to forgive as the Lord has forgiven us, which challenges us to practice unconditional forgiveness in our own lives.

We explore the parallels between Joseph’s experience and Jesus’ forgiveness, recognizing how Joseph’s life prefigures the Messiah. Like Jesus, Joseph extended grace and mercy even to those who had wronged him, showing us how central forgiveness is to God's plan.

As we conclude, we are reminded that forgiveness is about more than just resolving conflicts in the moment. It’s about understanding God’s larger, redemptive plan. Even through our trials and betrayals, God can bring about good, and forgiveness helps us align ourselves with His greater purpose.

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 62 - 13/09/24

This week we take a look at Psalm 2.

Opening Prayer: The session starts with a prayer asking for God’s guidance, peace, and focus as the group dives into studying His word.

Psalm 2 Context: The group discusses how Psalm 1 and 2 serve as the introduction to the Book of Psalms, and the historical context behind Psalm 2 being seen as prophetic of the Messiah. They note the connection between Psalm 1's emphasis on meditating on God's law and Psalm 2's focus on the rebellion of nations against God and His anointed one (the Messiah).

Dividing Psalm 2 by Voices: The group identifies different voices in Psalm 2—God, the kings of the earth, and the psalmist—and how each speaks to the ongoing theme of rebellion and submission. This leads to a deeper reflection on the plot of nations against God and His Messiah.

Rebellion Against God’s Authority: The conversation turns to how the nations rebel against God's instruction, viewing His commands as burdensome, leading to a discussion of contemporary resistance to God's authority, especially in modern culture. Romans 1 is referenced, highlighting humanity's inherent knowledge of God and the deliberate rejection of Him.

The Futility of Rebellion: The group explores God's reaction to the rebellion, noting that God laughs at their vain attempts. They compare this to other scriptures, such as Psalm 37, where God's power and justice are highlighted. This leads to reflections on God's sovereignty and the foolishness of opposing Him.

God’s Judgment and the Role of the Messiah: Verses 7–9 of Psalm 2 are discussed in terms of God’s promise to the Messiah, with prophetic implications about Christ's authority over the nations. The group reflects on the tension between Christ's role as both Savior and judge, with references to future judgment in Revelation and other scriptures.

Call to Submit and Find Refuge in Christ: The psalm’s final verses serve as a warning to the kings and rulers of the earth to submit to God's authority ("kiss the son"). The group considers the duality of fearing God’s judgment while finding joy and refuge in Him. The discussion ends with a prayer for boldness to share the message of salvation and the reality of God's wrath with others.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 61 - 30/08/24

This week we take a look at Psalm 50.

Introduction to Psalms 1 and 2: The discussion begins by explaining that Psalms 1 and 2 are often considered together as a prologue to the entire Book of Psalms. They lay the groundwork for understanding the Psalms, similar to how the opening chapters of Genesis set up the entire Bible. Some ancient texts combine them, but they are typically treated as two separate Psalms in most Bible versions.

Interpretation of "Blessed": The word "blessed" in Psalm 1 is analysed deeply. It is often translated as "happy," "fortunate," or "to be envied," but the discussion emphasizes that being blessed is not necessarily about material wealth or comfort. Instead, it signifies divine favour and spiritual growth, implying a deeper, more spiritual state that involves being favoured by God, often irrespective of one’s material circumstances.

Contrast Between the Righteous and the Wicked: Psalm 1 draws a clear distinction between the righteous, who delight in the law of the Lord, and the wicked, who follow ungodly counsel. The righteous are likened to a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in its season, symbolizing stability and prosperity. In contrast, the wicked are compared to chaff blown away by the wind, symbolizing instability and worthlessness.

Progression of Sin: A key theme discussed is the progressive nature of sin as described in Psalm 1: walking in the counsel of the wicked, standing in the way of sinners, and sitting in the seat of mockers. This progression illustrates how individuals can gradually become more entrenched in sinful behaviour, moving from casual association to active participation and ultimately to a settled attitude of scorn toward righteousness.

Call for Personal Reflection and Spiritual Growth: The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives in light of the teachings of Psalm 1. It stresses the importance of not following ungodly counsel and instead staying rooted in God’s word. The importance of taking a stand against worldly influences and holding onto biblical truths is emphasized, highlighting the need for Christians to be vigilant about their spiritual health and growth.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 60 - 16/08/24

This week we take a look at Psalm 50.

The discussion is focused on understanding Psalm 50, emphasizing its relevance to both ancient Israel and modern Christian practice, especially in terms of genuine obedience and heart-driven worship rather than mere ritualistic actions.

Psalm 50 portrays God's judgment and justice, reminding the people of His sovereignty and ownership over all creation, dismissing sacrifices made without true devotion as insufficient.

The group contrasts the first half of Psalm 50, which emphasizes God's righteous character and the need for heartfelt thanksgiving, with the second half, which criticizes hypocrites who follow the law outwardly but lack true obedience and righteousness.

The discussion touches on how this Psalm is relevant to contemporary believers, warning against superficial religious practices and highlighting the importance of internal sincerity and gratitude towards God.

There is a connection drawn between the issues addressed in Psalm 50 and the New Testament, particularly in terms of religious hypocrisy and the need for a heart aligned with God's will, rather than mere outward conformity to religious norms.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 59 - 02/08/24

This week we look at what the bible says about parenting. What does it mean to be a Christian parent? Does the Bible give us any help in how to raise our children? What happens if we ignore it?

The Bible study focuses on understanding what the Bible says about parenting, particularly the importance of discipline and correction in raising children.

Proverbs 22:15 highlights that foolishness is inherent in a child's heart and must be corrected through discipline to guide them away from this natural tendency.

The discussion emphasizes that proper parenting involves actively teaching and correcting children, as neglecting this responsibility can lead to negative consequences for both the child and the parent

The study also addresses the importance of setting boundaries and enforcing consequences consistently, ensuring children learn right from wrong through a balanced approach to discipline.

The conversation underscores the importance of starting discipline early, as the longer it is delayed, the harder it becomes to instil proper values and behaviour in a child.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 58 - 19/07/24

This week we look at what the bible says about the Spirit of the Age. What Does that mean? Are there really spiritual forces controlling the world and it's actions? What does that mean for Christians?

Overview of the Study: The Bible study session explores what the Bible says about the "spirit of the age," focusing on the spiritual influences and realities affecting the world.

Biblical Insights: The study begins with Job 1:7, which highlights Satan's roaming presence on Earth and his access to God, illustrating his active role in seeking to influence and deceive.

Spiritual Forces: Ephesians 2:1-3 discusses the "prince of the power of the air," representing Satan’s influence over those who live in disobedience, contrasting with the new life in Christ.

Impact on Society: The discussion extends to Psalm 2, which reflects on how worldly powers and rulers conspire against God and His anointed, showing how the spirit of the age manifests in societal and governmental structures.

Role of Believers: The study emphasizes the personal and collective spiritual battles Christians face, with the ultimate assurance that greater is Christ within them than the forces of darkness in the world.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uLz-SPpI9-GttLGqtiFloc71v9INu110/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 57 - 05/07/24

This week we look further at what the bible says about the Servanthood and what it means to be a servant for Christ and to others. This is the second part in a two part series.

Servanthood to the Lord: The study focuses on what it means to be a true servant of the Lord, emphasizing that servitude involves total surrender and subjection to God's will, rather than to human authority.

Biblical Examples: Jesus' teachings in Luke 14:28-33 and Matthew 19:21-22 illustrate the cost of discipleship, highlighting that following Christ requires giving up personal possessions and counting the cost before committing to a life of service.

Count the Cost: Jesus compares discipleship to a builder calculating costs or a king assessing military strength, stressing that followers must be prepared to give up everything and face potential sacrifices for their faith.

Symbolic Servitude: The Old Testament law in Exodus 21:2-6 symbolizes lifelong commitment to God, where a servant's ear is pierced as a sign of their permanent devotion, representing spiritual openness and obedience to God's voice.

Body as a Temple: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 emphasizes that Christians are not their own but belong to God, urging believers to honour God with their bodies, which counters modern views of bodily autonomy and reinforces total submission to divine will.

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 56 - 21/06/24

This week we look at what the bible says about foolishness. What makes us foolish? Can we help it?

Definition of Foolishness: The Bible defines foolishness primarily as the denial of God's existence. Psalm 14:1 describes the fool as someone who says in their heart that there is no God, leading to corrupt behaviour and abominable deeds.

Biblical Wisdom vs. Foolishness: Proverbs 1:7 contrasts wisdom with foolishness, stating that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, whereas fools despise wisdom and instruction. This highlights that wisdom involves understanding and adhering to divine principles.

Examples of Foolishness: The Bible provides several examples of foolish behaviour, including quick temper, perverse speech, and disobedience to parents. These behaviours are seen as manifestations of foolishness according to Proverbs.

Creation and Atheism: The discussion includes a critique of atheism, suggesting that denying God’s existence is foolish when considering the complexity and order of creation. The argument emphasizes that the universe’s existence necessitates a Creator.

Role of Discipline: Proverbs 22:15 mentions that foolishness is inherent in children, but discipline helps to remove it. The text argues that disciplined upbringing is crucial for guiding individuals away from foolishness and towards wisdom.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OV6Vx-YqI20O563_ATmBxCBtvgbFs1TF/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 54 - 24/05/24

This week we look at what the bible says about the topic of predestination. Does free will exist? Or does God decide everything?

Title and Overview: The discussion, titled "What the Bible Says About Predestination," actually covers a broad examination of biblical texts related to predestination, foreknowledge, and related theological concepts.

Key Biblical Passages: The session begins with an analysis of Romans 8:29-30, exploring the idea of predestination and its implications. The verses suggest that God predestines believers to be conformed to the image of His Son, which raises questions about whether predestination implies a lack of free will.

Predestination and Free Will: There is a debate about whether God's foreknowledge (knowing who will choose salvation) leads to predestination or whether predestination means individuals have no choice in their salvation. The discussion includes perspectives on how predestination aligns with human free will.

Theological Perspectives: The discussion touches on different theological views, including Calvinism, which emphasizes God's sovereignty and predestination, and Arminianism, which focuses on human choice. It also critiques the concept of limited atonement within Calvinism, arguing that Jesus's sacrifice was meant for all.

Practical Implications: The conversation reflects on how theological interpretations of predestination affect understanding of salvation, human responsibility, and the nature of God’s grace. It also highlights the ongoing debate between different theological traditions and their interpretations of scripture.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12s915pZmuXNtoXyN8DTkXlxcSmQ76UBC/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 53 - 10/05/24

This week we look at what the bible says about the Servanthood and what it means to be a servant for Christ and to others. This is the first part in a two part series.

Servanthood in Scripture: The study highlights the concept of servanthood as demonstrated by key biblical figures like Job and Moses. Both are noted for their unwavering faith and humility, exemplifying servanthood through their actions and attitudes.

Job's Integrity: Job is presented as a model of servanthood due to his blamelessness and fear of God, despite immense personal suffering. His story emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and faith in the face of trials.

Moses' Humility: Moses is described as the epitome of humility and faithfulness, distinguishing him from other leaders. His story underscores the value of humility in service to God, contrasting with worldly notions of power and ego.

Jesus as the Ultimate Servant: Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate example of servanthood, highlighting His selflessness and obedience even unto death. His actions and attitude serve as a model for Christian service, emphasizing the importance of serving others and submitting to God's will.

Practical Application: The discussion encourages believers to respond to God's call to servanthood through personal obedience and faithfulness. The transformative power of serving others is linked to a deeper understanding and reflection of God's character.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UIw6bMMO87WNMOwGDYtWjEgN3JLcfCwv/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 52 - 26/04/24

This week we look at what the bible says about concerning children who die. Do children go straight to heaven or not. Do they need to profess faith? What about infants?

Biblical Perspective on Children’s Death: The Bible does not explicitly state that children who die go straight to heaven. There is no direct scriptural evidence to support this view.

God's Character and Understanding: The discussion emphasizes understanding God’s character—described as gracious, compassionate, and just. Key scriptures like Psalm 145 and Deuteronomy 32 highlight God’s goodness and justice, suggesting that His actions align with His perfect nature.

Judgment and Reincarnation: The Bible teaches that people die once and face judgment (Hebrews 9:27-28), rejecting reincarnation. The concept of reincarnation is contrasted with Christian beliefs in judgment after death and the Book of Life (Revelation 20:11-15).

Comfort and Perspective: The speaker discusses the importance of understanding biblical principles to comfort those who have lost children. They also reflect on the value of each day of life and the perspective needed to understand divine justice and mercy.

Inclusivity of the Book of Life: The discussion concludes with the idea that all people are initially in the Book of Life, but those who reject God’s love and salvation are blotted out. The speaker highlights Jesus’ words about the kingdom of God belonging to those who are childlike, reinforcing a message of inclusive grace.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12wLhX6X4vgJtdgTLlp8yW5YDhcCCCeUi/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 51 - 12/04/24

This week we look at what the bible says about the discipleship and discipling others. This is the final part in a three part series.

Discipleship Begins with Personal Growth: Before making disciples, one must be a committed disciple of Jesus themselves, reflecting on Isaiah 4:1, which emphasizes the importance of being nurtured and growing in Christ to be effective in disciple-making.

Responsibility of Disciples: The call to make disciples is given specifically to those who are already disciples of Jesus, not to the world at large. This idea is supported by passages like Matthew 28:18-20 and John 17:6-24, which stress that disciples should pass on what they have learned.

Role of Scripture: Effective disciple-making relies on understanding and teaching the commands of Jesus as recorded in the Scriptures. Both John 17 and 2 Timothy 2:2 highlight the importance of teaching and passing on biblical truths faithfully.

Continuous Process of Discipleship: Discipleship is a continuous process involving various stages and different people. No single person has a monopoly on discipling others; rather, it involves multiple contributors over time, as seen in biblical examples like Moses, Timothy, and Apollos.

Unity Through Discipleship: Belief in and adherence to the word of God leads to unity among believers. John 17 emphasizes that unity with God and each other is a result of faithfully following Jesus’ teachings and engaging in true discipleship.

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 50 - 29/03/24

This week we look at what the bible says about the atonement. What is it and what does it mean to us?

Origin of the Term "Atonement": The term "atonement" is a 16th-century English creation, combining "at one" to convey the idea of reconciliation or being "at one" with someone. It was first used in the English Bible translation by William Tyndale.

Frequency and Context in the Bible: The word "atonement" appears often in the Old Testament but less frequently in the New Testament. In Hebrew, the term encompasses meanings such as reconciliation, forgiveness, and covering for sin.

Biblical Example - Exodus 32: In Exodus 32:30-35, Moses offers to make atonement for Israel’s sin of worshiping a golden calf. Despite his willingness, the people's sin results in a plague, indicating that the atonement was not fully achieved as there was no genuine repentance.

Levitical Offerings: Leviticus 1:5 describes a formal process for making atonement through burnt offerings. This ritual involves an unblemished male animal, symbolizing substitutionary atonement, where the animal's death represents the death due to sin.

Personal Responsibility and Symbolism: The process emphasizes personal responsibility, with the individual offering the sacrifice themselves, highlighting the personal nature of atonement. The shedding of the animal’s blood underscores the serious cost of sin, reflecting the necessity for Jesus' sacrificial death.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ciSqXbOWjk4mrESDLK4tGWUpORfnZHtZ/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 49 - 15/03/24

This week we look at what the bible says about the discipleship and discipling others. This is the second part in a three part series.

Personal Discipleship: Effective discipleship starts with one's own commitment to following Jesus. One cannot teach or disciple others without first living out the principles of discipleship in their own life.

Biblical Foundations: The session reviews key scriptures on discipleship from Luke, Mark, and Matthew. It emphasizes that discipleship involves personal sacrifice and commitment, as demonstrated in the lives of the early disciples and Jesus' teachings.

Conditions of Discipleship: According to Jesus, to follow Him, one must "deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me" (Luke 9:23). This entails self-denial, accepting personal challenges, and a daily commitment to living according to Jesus' teachings.

Voluntary Sacrifice: The cross symbolizes voluntary sacrifice and suffering. Unlike those who were forced to carry their cross to execution, Jesus calls His followers to willingly embrace personal challenges and sacrifices for the sake of their faith.

Value of Discipleship: The value of following Jesus and accepting His teachings far outweighs the personal struggles involved. The promise of rest and fulfilment comes from learning and living according to Jesus' example, despite the daily challenges and sacrifices required.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A7f4hsy6Z2tu8nsI-BQOlJJF6KN1YfHa/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 48 - 01/03/24

This week we look at what the bible says about the discipleship and discipling others. This is the first part in a three part series.

Focus on Personal Discipleship: The study emphasizes the importance of being a disciple of Jesus yourself before attempting to disciple others. Personal growth and alignment with Christ's teachings are essential.

Scriptural Basis for Discipleship: Various Bible verses are cited to support the idea that discipleship involves learning from Jesus, taking up His yoke, and being transformed into His image (e.g., Matthew 11:28-30, Philippians 2:5, Romans 8:28-29).

Continuous Learning and Transformation: Discipleship is described as a lifelong process of continuous learning and transformation, where believers progressively reflect Jesus' character and teachings through their lives.

Role of Community and Example: The study notes that effective discipleship also involves interacting with and learning from others in the faith community. This communal aspect complements personal growth and learning.

Reflection and Practice: The importance of reflecting on Scripture and applying it to daily life is highlighted. The analogy of a mirror is used to explain how constant exposure to God's word helps in personal transformation and becoming more Christlike.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1I6xyC3YQFDh_ztDcSgsU-HC8ZqkpaV8h/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 47 - 16/02/24

This week we look at what the bible says about believers baptism. Sprinkling or full immersion? Adults or babies? We look into all the aspects of what baptism is and isn't.

Definition and Focus: The study centres on water baptism specifically, explaining that the Greek word "baptism" means immersion. The discussion may briefly touch on the baptism of the Holy Spirit but will primarily focus on water baptism.

Biblical Basis: Key scriptures referenced include Romans 6:3-4 and Matthew 28:18-20. Romans 6 describes baptism as a symbolic act of being buried and resurrected with Christ, while Matthew 28 outlines the Great Commission, emphasizing the importance of making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them.

For Believers: Baptism is intended for those who are already believers in Christ. It is a public declaration of faith and repentance, as supported by scriptures like Acts 2:38-41, where Peter instructs new believers to repent and be baptized.

Timing and Process: The process involves belief and repentance before baptism. The Ethiopian eunuch's story (Acts 8:36-38) illustrates that baptism should occur soon after a person has genuinely repented and believed, without unnecessary delays or additional requirements.

Teaching and Discipleship: Baptism is part of a broader discipleship process, which includes continuous teaching and growth in faith. The discussion stresses that while baptism follows repentance, it is not a prerequisite for being a disciple; rather, it is an integral part of the disciple-making process.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T6q_SAo0-xKJCUBoZPSutvd7e-alOYcn/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 46 - 02/02/24

This week we look further at what the bible says about suffering. Why does God allow people to suffer. Can we avoid it? What is suffering?

Purpose of Suffering in Christianity: The study discusses suffering in Christianity, highlighting that suffering is a part of life due to the fall and sin, and it aims to explore its purpose in the believer’s life.

Biblical Passages on Suffering: Key passages from the Bible are examined, including Luke 12:49-53, which describes how Jesus’ message might cause division, and John 16:32-33, which offers comfort that Jesus has overcome the world despite suffering.

Jesus’ Warning: Jesus warns that following Him may lead to personal and familial divisions, and His message is not one of immediate peace but of deeper, often challenging spiritual realities.

Role of Suffering: Suffering is seen as a means of spiritual growth and refining, as illustrated by the examples of Job and the faithful in Hebrews 11, who remained steadfast despite severe trials.

Practical Implications: The talk emphasizes that Christians should be prepared for suffering, understanding that it can be a path to deeper faith and reliance on God, rather than a sign of divine displeasure or failure.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A2ZLqKAVr1oQ-gfS2oDvjKfJF4aiRjI8/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Martock Christian Fellowship

Episode 45. 12/01/24

Led by Graeme McPherson

This week we begin to look at the difficult subject of why suffering exists.

Suffering begins with the Fall (Gen 3:8–19): shame, fear, fractured relationship with God and one another, a cursed ground, pain in childbearing, toil in work, and the certainty of death—yet alongside judgment God promises the serpent-crushing Seed (the proto-evangelium, Gen 3:15), so even the first dark chapter holds gospel hope.

What God made good is now bent, not abolished: headship/help is marred by domination and desire; work remains a gift but resists us with thorns; creation groans; and our first reflex in sin is to hide in fear and self-covering—works that cannot truly clothe our guilt (Gen 3:7–13; Rom 8:20–23).

Job shows that undeserved, intense suffering can fall on the righteous, within boundaries set by God: stripped of wealth, children, and health, he worships—“The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD”—and refuses to charge God with wrong (Job 1:20–22; 2:9–10).

Satan’s accusation is that piety is merely transactional; God proves His worth by sustaining faith when gifts are removed, so Job’s steadfast worship displays to the “rulers and authorities in the heavenly places” the manifold wisdom and glory of God (Job 1–2; Eph 3:10).

In his agony Job confesses God’s holiness and his own smallness and longs for an arbiter who can lay a hand on both God and man (Job 9:2–4, 19, 32–33); the New Testament reveals that Mediator in Jesus Christ, the one mediator between God and men, our righteous High Priest (1 Tim 2:5; Heb 4:14–16).

Scripture reframes believers’ trials as Fatherly discipline that yields holiness; thus we endure by trusting the God who raises the dead, learning to worship in the dark, and comforting others with the comfort we receive (Heb 12:5–11; 2 Cor 1:8–10; 1:3–7; Hab 3:17–19).

Therefore, Christians face suffering with cross-shaped hope: to live is Christ and to die is gain; our light and momentary afflictions work an eternal weight of glory, and even death is swallowed up by resurrection through the Second Adam—so hold fast, worship, and wait for the restoration of all things (Phil 1:21–23; 2 Cor 4:17–18; 1 Cor 15:20–26; Rev 21:1–4).

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1waVqg26axD4cYPcHSgJIYiiqn7TMcFr5/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 17 - 04/11/22

This week we look at what the bible says about Marriage. This final part in a three part series.

Biblical Marriage Definition: Marriage is depicted in the Bible as a union between one man and one woman, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Church (First Peter 3, Ephesians 5). This traditional view underscores that despite modern challenges, the scriptural definition of marriage should be upheld.

Roles and Responsibilities: In marriage, the Bible assigns specific roles—wives are instructed to be submissive to their husbands, while husbands are commanded to love their wives as Christ loves the Church. This dynamic emphasizes mutual respect and understanding (First Peter 3:1-7, Ephesians 5:25-28).

Challenges and Divine Principles: The discussion acknowledges that these roles can be counterintuitive due to the fallen human nature. However, fulfilling these roles according to biblical principles can lead to a harmonious relationship and effective prayers (Genesis 21, Ephesians 5:7).

Power of Prayer in Marriage: Regular prayer together is seen as crucial for a strong marriage. It helps in aligning both partners with God’s will and strengthens their unity. Statistics suggest that couples who pray together experience lower divorce rates (Genesis 25:20-23).

Divine Intervention and Guidance: The discussion highlights instances where God intervenes to resolve marital issues, such as in the case of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar. This underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance in marital decisions and conflicts (Genesis 21:12-14).

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GXCqxhFAy6KSUxHb9StkYN1cT2yaw2fO/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 43 - 10/11/23

This week we look further at what the bible says about marriage. This will be the second in a three part series. What is marriage? Why is it important? How does it relate to Christ?

Marriage as a Divine Design: Marriage is depicted as a divine institution created by God, starting from the Genesis account where God stated it was not good for Adam to be alone. It is seen as a spiritual relationship that reflects God's design rather than just a physical or social arrangement.

Covenant Relationship: The Bible describes marriage as a covenant between a man and a woman, with God as a witness. This covenant is significant and binding, as seen in Malachi 2, where faithfulness in marriage is emphasized and divorce is condemned.

Spiritual Union: Marriage is portrayed as a spiritual union with God being a central witness. This spiritual aspect signifies that marriage is more than just a social contract; it is a sacred bond that reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church.

Godly Offspring and Purpose: The concept of "Godly offspring" is discussed not only in terms of physical children but also as the productive and fruitful work that a couple can achieve together for God's kingdom. Marriage is intended to produce both spiritual and tangible fruits.

Grace and Redemption: While the Bible sets a high standard for marriage, including prohibitions against divorce and unfaithfulness, there is also a recognition of God's grace and forgiveness. The discussion highlights that while God’s standard is ideal, His grace covers human shortcomings and failures in marriage.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1S895dD5It8GjEvWLfLJyWoCM5be8qs-o/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 42 - 10/11/23

This week we look at what the bible says about marriage. This will be the first in a three part series.

Purpose of Study: The discussion aims to explore biblical principles regarding marriage, emphasizing that the Bible, not personal experience or societal views, should be the standard for understanding marriage.

Biblical Foundations: Key scriptures from Genesis and Ephesians are examined. Genesis 2 describes the creation of Eve as a suitable helper for Adam, while Ephesians 5 outlines roles and responsibilities within marriage, highlighting mutual submission and sacrificial love.

Marriage as God's Design: The study underscores that marriage was instituted by God, not by human preference. It emphasizes that understanding marriage requires recognizing it as a divine creation with specific principles and purposes.

Role of Experience: The speaker acknowledges that personal experiences and societal norms may differ, but they are not the standard for defining marriage. The focus should remain on biblical teachings.

Practical Advice: For those entering marriage or contemplating it, the study suggests that focusing on serving God and following His principles will guide individuals in finding a compatible partner and understanding their role within marriage.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OQsNDfcEPB5GVDO50N-03O6BAsjsNKgl/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 41 - 27/10/23.

This week we look at what the bible says about The Glory of The Lord. What does it mean to us? Does the Bible give us any clues about it? Can we experience it?

Concept of Glory: The term "glory" in the Bible is used extensively and is linked to the intrinsic worth and weightiness of God's presence. In Hebrew, "glory" (kabod) implies heaviness or weight, while in Greek (doxa), it relates to intrinsic worth.

Biblical Examples: Key passages such as Psalm 19, Isaiah 6, and Revelation 4:11 illustrate that God's glory is evident in creation and His actions. The heavens and creation reflect God's grandeur, and His glory is portrayed as a powerful, omnipresent force.

Dangerous Glory: God's glory can be overwhelming and even dangerous, as demonstrated in Exodus and Kings. Instances where God's glory is described as a consuming fire or a cloud highlight its intense and awe-inspiring nature, which is beyond human capability to fully endure.

Correct and Incorrect Glory: The Bible discusses the proper and improper placement of glory. Passages like Isaiah 42 and Romans 1 caution against misplacing glory, such as worshiping idols or earthly things instead of God, emphasizing the folly of exchanging the divine glory for worthless things.

Impact of God's Glory: The glory of God is central to understanding His nature and the salvation He offers. It’s through creation and the life of Jesus that the profound and magnified aspect of God’s glory is revealed, showing both His power and goodness.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18wTkuXlDElNuxGW7QjFQvjJJv-9pZ_7R/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 40 - 20/10/23

Led by Graeme McPherson, Tim Clark & Tim Leech

What the Bible Says About Israel — In Light of October 7

In this special Bible study, recorded shortly after the October 7 2023 attacks on Israel, we turn to Scripture to understand what God Himself says about the nation of Israel — her origins, her scattering, her regathering, and her prophetic future.

From Genesis 3 to Romans 11, the Bible reveals a divine plan unfolding through history: a covenant people chosen not for privilege, but for purpose — to bring forth the Messiah, and to display God’s faithfulness to the nations.

📖 Topics covered include:

• The promise of the Seed of the Woman (Genesis 3:15)
• God’s everlasting covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12 & 15)
• Israel’s exile, dispersion, and suffering among the nations (Deuteronomy 28; Ezekiel 36)
• The miraculous rebirth of Israel in 1948 (Isaiah 66:8)
• The spiritual battle behind modern conflicts (Psalm 83; Ephesians 6:12)
• The coming salvation and restoration of Israel (Romans 11:25–27; Zechariah 12:10)
• How these prophecies call the Church to unity, prayer, and readiness

Though the events of October 7 shocked the world, the Bible reminds us that history is not random. God’s Word has foretold Israel’s trials — and His ultimate triumph.

🙏 Join us as we pray for peace, for the salvation of Jew and Gentile alike, and for hearts to be turned toward the coming King — the Lord Jesus Christ.

“He who scattered Israel will gather him, and will keep him as a shepherd keeps his flock.”

— Jeremiah 31:10 (NASB)

#Israel #BibleProphecy #EndTimes #JesusChrist #PrayForIsrael #Romans11 #Zechariah12 #Genesis315

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gbR0BYLfd_2kPFs-Ngc8HnXs73qjQ5jO/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 39 - 13/10/23

This week we further investigate bible verses that teach about Leadership.

Biblical View on Leadership: The Bible teaches that leadership, both in worldly and church contexts, is appointed by God, with the emphasis on humility and service rather than power. Leaders are judged by their alignment with God's standards and their ability to serve others, exemplified by the principle that "the greatest will be the least" in the Kingdom of God.

Church Leadership Priorities: Church leaders are prioritized by their commitment to prayer and the ministry of the Word. Practical tasks, such as serving tables, are delegated to others to allow leaders to focus on spiritual responsibilities, as demonstrated in Acts 6 with the appointment of seven men to handle daily distribution.

Role of Elders and Deacons: The early church's structure involved elders overseeing spiritual matters and deacons handling practical needs. This separation of roles highlights the importance of both service and spiritual leadership, ensuring that leaders are devoted to preaching and teaching while others manage practical aspects.

Paul's Farewell to the Ephesians: In Acts 20, Paul emphasizes the solemn responsibility of church leaders to shepherd the flock, highlighting the cost of leadership, including facing opposition and remaining vigilant against false teachings. He underscores the importance of integrity and sacrificial service, mirroring Christ’s example.

Call to Servant Leadership: True leadership in the church is characterized by service and sacrifice, rather than seeking personal gain. Leaders are called to be selfless, prioritize the spiritual well-being of their congregation, and act with integrity, reflecting the example set by Christ and the apostles.

STUDY NOTES 1: https://drive.google.com/file/d/117cQg5h8X8BDCQ89XmKw-E8kgVaJNL6T/view?usp=drive_link

STUDY NOTES 2: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LaAnpi09z9jHQy72KPFkle6v8O-ksZX_/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 38 - 29/09/23

This week we further investigate bible verses that teach about Leadership.

Individual vs. Church Leadership: The discussion emphasizes that effective church leadership flows from strong individual spiritual leadership. Leaders should first cultivate their own spiritual lives, which will naturally extend to leading others in a church context.

Biblical Examples of Leadership: The transcript explores Biblical stories, such as Saul's encounter with Samuel and Naaman's healing by Elisha, to illustrate how ordinary individuals offered leadership through servanthood and wisdom rather than through titles or official positions.

Servanthood as Leadership: The concept of leadership in the Bible is framed around servanthood. True leadership is seen as serving others and providing godly counsel rather than holding a position of authority or power.

Spiritual Insight and Responsibility: Leaders are encouraged to develop spiritual insight and foresight to avoid leading others astray. This involves personal reflection and alignment with Biblical teachings to ensure they guide others effectively.

Anointing vs. Appointment: The discussion highlights that Biblical leadership is often more about being anointed by God rather than being appointed by people. Genuine leadership comes from God's calling and equipping, not merely from formal titles or roles.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 37 - 15/09/23

This week we investigate bible verses that teach about Leadership.

God's Sovereignty Over Leadership: The Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all human authorities. Leaders are placed in their positions by God’s will, as shown in passages like Daniel 2:20-21 and Romans 13. This implies that current leaders, regardless of their moral standing, are part of God's divine plan.

The Role of Leaders and Judgment: Leadership and governance are seen as reflections of God's judgment or blessing on a nation. Leaders can be instruments of divine judgment or refinement for a country, as illustrated by historical examples and biblical accounts of various rulers.

Christian Response to Unjust Leadership: Christians are called to submit to governing authorities, but this is not absolute. When laws or commands contradict God's commands, believers should stand firm in their faith and principles, as exemplified by Peter and John in Acts 4:18-20.

Balancing Submission and Disobedience: While Christians should generally respect and obey governmental authorities, there are instances where civil disobedience is warranted, especially when it involves upholding moral and biblical standards. The key is to address injustices within appropriate channels and with a spirit of love and respect.

The Challenge of Modern Issues: The discussion reflects on contemporary issues such as moral and ethical dilemmas in governance, suggesting that Christians may face challenges in upholding biblical truths in increasingly secular or hostile environments. The approach should always be rooted in love, truth, and respect for God’s ultimate authority.

STUDY NOTES 1: https://drive.google.com/file/d/117cQg5h8X8BDCQ89XmKw-E8kgVaJNL6T/view?usp=drive_link

STUDY NOTES 2: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LaAnpi09z9jHQy72KPFkle6v8O-ksZX_/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 36 - 01/09/23

This week we investigate bible verses that teach about the Angel of The Lord.

Purpose of Study: The discussion explores how the Old Testament contains types, shadows, and prefiguration of Jesus, including the concept of the "Angel of the Lord," which is viewed as a manifestation of Jesus prior to his incarnation. This study aims to show how these appearances affirm the continuity of God's plan leading to Jesus.

Biblical Evidence: The speaker references various Old Testament passages (e.g., Genesis 16, 21, and 22) where the "Angel of the Lord" appears, demonstrating that this figure performs actions and makes promises that align with divine authority, often blurring lines between the Angel and God Himself.

Theological Implications: The discussion touches on theological concepts such as allegory versus literal interpretation and how the appearances of the "Angel of the Lord" can be seen as a manifestation of the Trinity. This includes debates over whether these appearances are allegorical or literal theophanies (manifestations of God).

Jesus and the Old Testament: Jesus' own teachings in the New Testament (e.g., Luke 24:27, John 5:39) support the idea that the Old Testament scriptures point to him. This understanding is meant to enrich personal faith and provide apologetic strength by showing the consistency of God's message throughout the Bible.

Challenges and Confusions: The speaker acknowledges challenges in interpreting these appearances, including translation issues and the potential for misunderstanding the nature of these manifestations. They emphasize the need for careful study and understanding of the original Hebrew and Greek texts to grasp the full meaning.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gqcvB09Rudw_02OdKSbkrzlKzIbak6WC/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 35 - 18/08/23

This week we look at what the bible says about the Sanctity of Life. We touch on areas of abortion and the unborn child as well as life in general.

The discussion centres around the biblical concept of the sanctity of life, particularly focusing on abortion and end-of-life issues, emphasizing that life is sacred because humans are made in God's image.

The participants explore various Bible verses, such as Genesis 1:26-27 and Exodus 20:13, discussing the implications of being created in God's image and the commandment "You shall not murder."

The conversation delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding sustaining life versus taking life, with references to difficult situations like euthanasia and the story of the Amalekites.

There is an emphasis on the unique spiritual aspect of human beings, as God breathed life into humans, setting them apart from animals, and the importance of understanding this difference.

The group discusses the idea of God's foreknowledge of each person, citing scriptures like Jeremiah 1:5 and Psalm 139, which suggest that God knows and values each life even before birth.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 34 - 04/08/23

The second part of our look into what the bible says about the flesh.

The discussion centres on understanding the concept of "the flesh" from a biblical perspective, emphasizing the idea of being spiritually dead in sin before accepting Christ and becoming alive in Him.

The group explores key scriptures (2 Corinthians 5, Colossians 3, Galatians 2) to understand what it means to be "dead" in Christ, noting that accepting Christ's sacrifice should lead believers to live not for themselves but for Christ.

The love of Christ is described as a compelling force that should drive believers to live in alignment with God's will, rather than following their own desires, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's love and sacrifice.

A significant part of the conversation delves into the theological debate about whether Christ's sacrifice was for all humanity or only for believers, with differing views discussed without reaching a definitive conclusion.

The importance of living out the life of Christ is highlighted, with the idea that simply embodying Christ's teachings and values can serve as a powerful witness to others, often leading to changes in behaviour or attitudes in those around them.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mLWKZRL_naj9M3KqID9R0aI5TRUkPkUP/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 33 - 21/07/23

This week we investigate bible verses that teach about the Thessalonians.

The discussion explores themes from Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the face of deception and the signs of the end times.

The group reflects on how contemporary issues and widespread apathy in churches might be related to prophetic warnings about the end times, including the rise of false teachings and the Antichrist.

There is a focus on the importance of community and mutual support among believers, as well as the necessity of staying grounded in Biblical truth to avoid being misled by subtle deceptions.

The conversation touches on various interpretations of prophecy, including the impact of preterism, and the need to discern the truth amidst competing claims and interpretations.

The group emphasizes the significance of maintaining a strong understanding of Scripture and the prophetic signs outlined in the Bible to stay alert and prepared for future events as described in the New Testament.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 32 - 07/07/23

This week we investigate bible verses that teach about the old and the new testament.

Mirroring Between Testaments: The discussion explores how the New Testament sheds light on the Old Testament and how the Old Testament anticipates the New Testament. Specifically, it examines the parallels between the lives of Joseph and Jesus, highlighting how Joseph’s experiences foreshadow aspects of Jesus’s life.

Joseph and Jesus Parallels: Joseph’s story in Genesis is compared with Jesus’s life, noting similarities such as their roles as saviours, experiences of betrayal, temptation, and forgiveness. Both figures also demonstrate themes of sovereignty and redemption.

Biblical Symbolism: The narrative draws connections between symbols like Joseph’s multi-coloured coat and Jesus’s garments, and how these symbols represent deeper theological meanings, including Jesus’s ultimate sacrifice and the tearing of the temple curtain.

God’s Timing: The speaker emphasizes that God's actions and timing, as seen in Joseph's long imprisonment and subsequent rise to power, differ from human expectations. This highlights the importance of patience and trust in divine providence.

Value of Old Testament: The talk asserts the importance of the Old Testament for understanding the New Testament, noting that Jesus and the early apostles preached based on the Old Testament scriptures. The integration of both testaments enriches the comprehension of biblical prophecy and fulfilment.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 31 - 23/06/23.

This week we look at what the bible says about the fear of The Lord. Is it healthy? What exactly does it mean?

Biblical Perspective on Fear: The Bible contains numerous references to the "fear of the Lord," which is often associated with respect and reverence rather than terror. Verses like Deuteronomy 6:24 and Jeremiah 32:39 emphasize that fearing God is beneficial for our well-being and is intended to keep us aligned with His will.

Positive Fear vs. Negative Fear: The fear of the Lord is presented as a positive force, leading to respect and a desire to follow God's commands. This reverent fear differs from the negative fear associated with danger or harm, as it stems from understanding God's power and love rather than from dread.

Fear and Wisdom: Proverbs 1:7 states that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." This indicates that true wisdom and understanding start with recognizing God's authority and living in accordance with His teachings. Without this foundational fear, other forms of knowledge are considered incomplete or misguided.

Fear and Mercy: Psalms 130:4 and other scriptures highlight that God's fear is linked to His mercy and forgiveness. The acknowledgment of God's ability to forgive is paired with a healthy respect for His holiness and the consequences of sin, reinforcing the balance between reverence and gratitude.

Fear as a Blessing: The fear of the Lord is described as a blessing because it fosters spiritual growth and understanding. It helps believers appreciate the gravity of their actions and the importance of living in accordance with God's will, which ultimately leads to a more profound and insightful relationship with Him.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YrQlxNkwWWJEBNH3Jj1IV9NIshaJlawk/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 30 - 09/06/23

This week we look at what the bible says about singing? Is there "biblical" or "unbiblical" singing? Why do we sing? How does singing factor into our Christian lives? Is singing and worship the same thing?

Singing as a Christian Practice: Singing, along with prayer, is one of the most frequently commanded practices for Christians in the Bible, signifying its importance in worship and daily life.

Biblical Examples and Origins: Singing is depicted in the Bible as predating humanity, with angels and stars singing during the creation (Job 38:4-7). This suggests that music and singing have a divine and spiritual dimension.

Psalms and Worship: The Psalms frequently command singing and music as expressions of praise and worship. Psalm 33:1-5 highlights that singing to the Lord is fitting and beautiful, encouraging all to sing from an upright heart.

Music's Spiritual Impact: Music is portrayed as spiritually significant, pre-existing human creation and influencing emotions and spiritual experiences. It connects believers with God and can uplift or change one's mood profoundly.

Contemporary Church Practices: The discussion touches on how modern church practices around singing and music can sometimes become divisive or overly focused on musical proficiency, rather than the heartfelt expression of worship as encouraged in the Bible.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19plUJXVKFcVzthAcPMfmULQVjBJlfSZ1/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 29 - 26/05/23

This week we look into what the bible says about the flesh. What is it? Where's the harm? can we avoid it's influence?

Definition of the Flesh: The term "flesh" in the Bible is synonymous with human nature, sinful nature, and the old self. It's described as being in opposition to the Spirit and is associated with actions and thoughts that are contrary to God's law.

Biblical Translations: Various Bible translations, including the Good News Bible, New Living Translation, and Amplified Bible, provide different perspectives on the "flesh," emphasizing its role as the human nature or sinful desires that lead to spiritual death unless overcome by living according to the Spirit.

Scriptural References: Key scriptures such as Romans 8 and Colossians 3:9 illustrate that the "flesh" refers to the old self or sinful nature that must be replaced by the new self, renewed in the image of God. The contrast is made between living according to the flesh and living according to the Spirit.

Spiritual Conflict: The discussion highlights the ongoing conflict between the flesh and the Spirit within individuals. This internal struggle reflects the tension between pursuing worldly desires versus spiritual growth and obedience to God.

Need for Rebirth: Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus in John 3 emphasizes the necessity of being "born again" of water and the Spirit to overcome the corrupt nature inherited from birth. This rebirth is crucial for entering the Kingdom of God and signifies a transformative change in nature from flesh to Spirit.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kNS1vpdNMxFwMCGaU24tNjx3ktmXEC1W/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 28 - 05/05/23

This week we look at what the bible says about Moses. Who is he? What does he teach us about Jesus and the future?

The study explores how typology, a method of interpreting the Bible, is used to understand deeper connections between Old Testament figures, like Moses, and New Testament figures, especially Jesus.

Typology involves identifying patterns, shadows, or types in the Old Testament that prefigure or symbolize events or persons in the New Testament, giving a richer understanding beyond the plain text.

The session compares the life of Moses with that of Jesus, noting that both were threatened as infants by evil rulers, fled to Egypt, and later returned to fulfil their missions, showing Moses as a "type" of Christ.

The discussion highlights that Moses was initially rejected by his own people but was later accepted, drawing a parallel to Jesus' first and second comings, where He is initially rejected and later accepted by His people.

The conversation also touches on the relationship between Jews and Christians, emphasizing that the New Testament completes the Old Testament and that both Jews and Gentiles are part of God's plan, which can be misunderstood without recognizing the deep connections between the two Testaments.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RVfDjPG3OYaeAkp2qYrf9GFW3GfP5ch0/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 27 - 21/04/23

This week we look at what the bible says about work, jobs and ministry.

Work in Creation: The Bible suggests that work existed even before the fall of man, as seen in Genesis 2. Man was placed in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it, indicating that work was part of God's original plan for humanity.

God as a Worker: God himself worked during the creation of the world, as stated in Genesis 2. Humans, being created in God's image, were also made to work, reflecting the divine nature of creativity and productivity.

Impact of the Fall: The fall introduced toil and hardship into work, as seen in Genesis 3. While work was originally fulfilling, it became burdensome and associated with pain and struggle due to the curse on the ground.

Symbiosis with Creation: There is a symbiotic relationship between humanity and creation, where the earth needs to be managed and cultivated by humans. This management was part of humanity’s role to rule and subdue the earth under God’s guidance.

Restoration Through Salvation: Through salvation, God seeks to restore humanity to the pre-fall condition, where work is fulfilling and done in partnership with God. This reflects a return to the original purpose of work as seen in Genesis 2.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z2M3zO0wQtzkhm-vRth2trgDR89mZ1tV/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly Bible Study.

24/03/23

Led by Tim Clark

1) The Peace Jesus Gives Is Not of This World

Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you” (John 14:27). The world’s peace is temporary—merely the pause between wars or the absence of conflict—but Christ’s peace is inward, spiritual, and eternal. His peace calms the heart amid tribulation, bringing courage and stability even when the world is in turmoil (John 16:33).

2) Biblical Peace Is Wholeness, Not Merely Calmness

The Hebrew shalom comes from shalem, meaning “complete” or “made whole.” Peace in God’s Word is not just quietness, but completeness—when all that is broken is made right. To be at peace is to be reconciled, restored, and fulfilled in relationship with God and others (Gen 15:15; Exod 22:4). It is the soul’s state when nothing essential is missing because God has made it whole (Isa 26:3).

3) Peace Comes from Reconciliation with God through Christ

Humanity’s greatest conflict is separation from God caused by sin (Isa 59:2). But “having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom 5:1). Christ is “our peace”—He reconciles us to God, breaking down the wall of hostility and making us one with Him (Eph 2:13–14). True peace begins only when a sinner is made right with God through the cross.

4) Peace Is a Fruit of the Spirit, Not Self-Generated

Peace cannot be achieved by self-discipline, wealth, or favorable circumstances; it is the work of the Holy Spirit within the believer. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Gal 5:22). This peace flows from trust and obedience, guarding the heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Phil 4:6–7). The Spirit continually reminds believers that they are secure in God’s grace.

5) Peace with Others Flows from Peace with God

We are commanded to “be diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph 4:3). Just as Christ reconciled us to the Father, we must seek reconciliation with one another—through humility, gentleness, and forgiveness. Pride, impatience, and self-righteousness destroy peace; humility and love restore it. “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all” (Rom 12:18).

6) Peace Guards the Heart Amid Suffering and Fear

The peace of God is not dependent on outward comfort. Believers can experience peace even in persecution, poverty, or loss, because “He Himself is our peace.” This peace is seen in martyrs who sang in death, in the suffering who still rejoice in Christ, and in every believer who trusts that “the God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet” (Rom 16:20; Phil 4:9). It is the calm of faith in the storm.

7) Peace Completes God’s Work of Sanctification

Peace is both a present reality and a future promise. God is continually perfecting His people, making them whole until Christ’s return: “May the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely… faithful is He who calls you, and He also will do it” (1 Thess 5:23–24). The believer’s ultimate peace will come when sin and death are no more—when we are fully restored in His presence, complete in Christ (Isa 9:6; Rev 21:4).

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1x9ZJSqaQPIYBkfvfJYBrccCkgN2OzOjd/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 25 - 10/03/23

This week we look at how to study the bible - is there a right or wrong way?

Universal Responsibility: The study of the Bible is meant for everyone, not just a select few. All believers are called to understand and apply God's word in their lives, reflecting a personal responsibility in engaging with scripture.

Historical Challenges and Access: Historically, access to the Bible was limited, with translations in Latin and restricted to the clergy. Figures like William Tyndale made significant sacrifices to translate the Bible into common languages, allowing broader access.

Jesus and Scripture: Jesus emphasized the importance of knowing and believing the scriptures. He opened the understanding of his disciples, showing that all scripture points to Him and that understanding the Bible is essential to avoid error.

Practical Engagement: Believers are encouraged to internalize and discuss scripture in everyday life, similar to how Jesus conducted a Bible study with his disciples on the road. This continual engagement strengthens faith and understanding.

Old Testament Relevance: The Old Testament remains relevant and foundational, as Jesus and the New Testament writers frequently referenced it. Some modern believers dismiss it, but Jesus affirmed its importance, and it is critical for a complete understanding of the faith.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vOV1foQi7TmQ-bELrNe1hPqPdzooBRNx/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 24 - 24/02/23

This week we look at the topic of Holiness from the text of scripture. Who is holy? Can we be holy?

The discussion centres around the concept of holiness in the Bible, specifically exploring its first mention in Genesis 2:1-4, where God sanctifies the seventh day, setting it apart as holy because He rested from creation.

Holiness is defined as being "set apart" for God's purposes. The group reflects on how the seventh day is distinct, not just because of God's rest, but as a day intended to focus on God rather than work or routine.

The conversation touches on the idea of rest, both physical and spiritual. The group discusses how rest was originally meant to be a time of satisfaction and reflection, contrasting this with the toil and restlessness that entered the world after the Fall.

They also examine the idea of Sabbath rest, not just as a physical need but as a spiritual practice. The conversation includes thoughts on how Jesus reinterpreted the Sabbath, focusing on its purpose rather than rigid rules.

Finally, the group reflects on the ongoing relevance of Sabbath rest in modern life, discussing its benefits for productivity, well-being, and spiritual connection, and comparing it to a future rest in the new heavens and new earth.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OA-5Nz4iEZsodYTqu0xpslcWhqRRJzc0/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 23 - 10/02/23

This week we look at what the bible says about the Kingdom of God. What is it? When is it? How do we get there?

Kingdom Concept: The Bible teaches that God's kingdom is a spiritual realm where He reigns as the supreme King. It is not of this world, yet it is present and accessible to believers through faith and spiritual connection.

Dual Nature of the Kingdom: The kingdom of God is both present within believers ("the kingdom of God is in the midst of you") and yet to come in its fullness. It transcends earthly kingdoms and operates on spiritual principles that differ from worldly governance.

Jesus' Teaching: Jesus emphasized the nearness and accessibility of God's kingdom, urging people to repent because "the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand." Despite being physically absent after His ascension, Jesus' kingdom remains active in the spiritual lives of His followers.

Spiritual Reality for Believers: Believers are described as being seated in "Heavenly places" with Christ, indicating a current spiritual participation in God's kingdom even while they live on Earth. This reflects a deeper spiritual reality that transcends physical existence.

Faith and Revelation: Understanding and accessing God's kingdom requires faith and spiritual revelation. While logic and human understanding can grasp aspects of the kingdom, its full reality is only comprehensible through faith in Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sB9er8EfoBlf097N-XqN7tmoR0byHs8z/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 22 - 27/01/23

This week we look at what the bible says about prayer and paying.

Prayer as a Deep Commitment: The study emphasizes that prayer should transform believers into men and women of prayer, not just a topic of discussion. It highlights the importance of moving beyond academic understanding to practical application.

Jesus as the Example of Prayer: The disciples noticed something unique about Jesus’ prayer life, which prompted them to ask Him to teach them how to pray. This indicates that Jesus' approach to prayer was different from the traditional practices of the time, making prayer a personal and sincere communication with God.

The Lord’s Prayer as a Model: The study discusses the Lord’s Prayer as a model rather than a set formula. It is a declaration of a relationship with God, a recognition of His sovereignty, and an expression of dependence on Him for daily needs, forgiveness, and guidance.

Heart Attitude in Prayer: Genuine prayer requires sincerity and humility, focusing on God rather than self. The Pharisee's prayer, which was self-centred, contrasts with the humility of the tax collector, who recognized his unworthiness before God. True prayer must be honest and reflect a humble attitude.

Public vs. Private Prayer: While Jesus emphasized praying in secret to avoid hypocrisy, the study acknowledges that prayer can also be public, as long as it is genuine. The key is sincerity in both private and public prayer, with the heart focused on God rather than outward appearances.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TsO_GlAZq-9ltnTRAGRucUzk5CndiumO/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 21 - 13/01/23

This week we look at bible verses about the worship of The Lord.

Definition of Worship: Worship is the outflow of a grateful heart towards God for who He is and what He has done. Historically, worship has been associated with church gatherings, rituals, and sacrifices, especially within the context of the Old Covenant, where it took place in the temple or tabernacle.

Types of Worship in Scripture: The Old Testament uses various Greek words to describe worship, such as "proskuneo" (to prostrate oneself), "leitourgia" (priestly service in the temple), "latreuo" (service by non-priests in the temple), and "thusia" (sacrifice). Worship involved both physical actions and offerings as part of religious duties.

Worship and Service: Worship in the Bible often involves a choice between serving God or other gods, emphasizing that everyone worships something, whether it be God or worldly things. True worship requires obedience, sincerity, and service to God alone.

Fear of the Lord: A key aspect of worship is the "fear of the Lord," which involves a reverential awe of God's holiness. This fear leads to sincere and heartfelt worship, distinguishing it from insincere or self-centred practices.

Modern Application: Contemporary worship can sometimes lack the reverence and fear of God seen in biblical worship. The discussion highlights the importance of approaching worship with a cleansed heart, avoiding idolatry, and recognizing the shift in modern attitudes where self-entitlement and a lack of responsibility may diminish the true spirit of worship.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fm8UDKVmyTq5Ftl65H7aSodlBqtE81pY/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 20 - 16/12/22

This week we look at what the bible says about the Heaven.

The study of heaven focuses on understanding the biblical concept of a "new Heaven and new Earth," with insights from 2 Peter and Revelation, exploring how these changes relate to the end times and the final state of believers.

The discussion includes interpretations of "Heaven" as a multi-layered concept, with distinctions made between the physical heavens (sky and space) and the spiritual realm where God resides.

The idea of a "new Heaven and new Earth" likely refers to the renewal of the universe, eliminating decay and chaos, and creating a perfect, God-centred existence for believers.

There is an exploration of the resurrection and the continuation of physical bodies in the afterlife, where believers will enjoy a perfected, physical existence in a new, divinely created world.

The conversation touches on the eventual destruction and renewal of the current world and the banishment of evil, leading to a harmonious and perfect universe where God dwells directly with humanity.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_RjsukA5PCIyvXPZqeAUClz7ynNuFGAi/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 19 - 02/12/22

This week we look at what the bible says about the last days. The last in a three part series.

The discussion centres on understanding the Bible's teachings about the end times, focusing on the importance of not being deceived by false teachings and staying spiritually vigilant.

Jesus emphasizes that His return will be unexpected, likened to a thief in the night, and that believers should be prepared and watchful, knowing that this event will be both glorious for believers and terrifying for non-believers.

The conversation highlights the importance of evangelism, encouraging Christians to spread their faith and bring others to salvation, especially in light of the challenging times that are prophesied to come.

A significant point made is the necessity for believers to grow in their faith, remain steadfast, and not be led astray by false prophets or the pressures of a world increasingly hostile to Christian values.

The group examines scriptural references from Matthew 24, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation, discussing how these passages provide insight into the sequence of events leading to Jesus’ return and the nature of the last days.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HM_e3KcIu1GZXREH3D0-Xk28H4LQ2jB8/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 18 - 18/11/22

This week we look at what the bible says about the last days. This is the second part in a three part series.

The discussion revolves around understanding key Greek words related to eschatology (the study of the end times) as described in the Bible, particularly focusing on the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

"Parousia" (Coming): This word refers to the physical arrival or coming of a significant figure, often with royal connotations. It highlights the idea of Jesus' anticipated return as a significant and grand event, where His physical presence will be established on Earth.

"Epiphania" (Appearing): This term emphasizes the visible manifestation of Jesus’ glory and majesty during the end times. The discussion contrasts the responses of believers, who will love His appearing, and non-believers, who will mourn and be fearful.

Contrasting Reactions: The text suggests a stark contrast in reactions to Jesus’ appearing. Believers will find it to be a joyous event, while non-believers will experience fear and mourning, highlighting the differing outcomes based on one’s relationship with Christ.

Eschatological Preparation: There's an emphasis on the importance of being spiritually prepared for these events, drawing parallels with royal preparations, suggesting that the church must be ready for Jesus' return. The discussion hints at the need for personal and communal readiness, involving both belief and conduct aligned with Christian teachings.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1abULhSJiXqS4sWn1I0_-E2KHTcnea0bT/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 17 - 04/11/22

This week we look at what the bible says about the last days. This will be the first in a three part series.

The topic of discussion is about "final things" or eschatology, focusing on events that are prophesied in the Bible to happen in the future.

The speaker explains different perspectives on biblical prophecy: futurists believe these events will occur in the future, preterists think they have already happened in the past, historicists see them as occurring throughout history, and others view them as purely allegorical.

The speaker mentions how prophecies can be complex and are sometimes fulfilled in multiple ways, such as the example of Jesus’ return from Egypt being seen as both a past event for Israel and a future event.

The idea is that as time progresses, prophecy becomes clearer, similar to how things become more visible as one approaches them, meaning our understanding of prophecy might evolve as events unfold.

The speaker cautions against rigid interpretations of prophecy and stresses that full understanding may only come closer to the time of fulfilment, highlighting the dynamic and multi-layered nature of biblical prophecies.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15tn7s6X5TXhHgD1Bgiv3hg-7Vo8sZZ8V/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 16 - 14/10/22

This week we investigate bible verses that teach about the covenants. What are they and why do they matter?

Covenants in the Bible: The discussion explores the concept of covenants in the Bible, focusing on the various covenants God made with humanity, starting with Noah and moving through others like Abraham. A covenant is generally understood as a solemn promise or agreement between God and humans, often accompanied by a sign or symbol.

Noahic Covenant: The first covenant discussed is with Noah, where God promises never to destroy the Earth with a flood again. This covenant is unconditional, meaning it doesn't depend on any action from Noah or humanity. The rainbow serves as the sign of this covenant.

Abrahamic Covenant: The covenant with Abraham is examined, which promises to make Abraham's descendants into a great nation and bless all the peoples of the Earth through them. This covenant appears to have conditional and unconditional elements, requiring Abraham to leave his homeland as an act of faith to fulfil the promise.

Nature of Covenants: The discussion touches on the different types of covenants (conditional and unconditional) and their significance. Unconditional covenants rely solely on God's promise, while conditional covenants require a response or action from humans to be fulfilled.

Faith and Righteousness: The conversation delves into the idea that faith and righteousness play crucial roles in the establishment of covenants. Despite humanity's inherent flaws, God's covenants demonstrate His commitment to His people, often requiring a single faithful individual to act as a catalyst for divine action.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aV6lBTiCqral_F24uleWNH5DeXXmvhJL/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 15 - 07/10/22

This week we investigate further bible verses that teach about Israel.

Formation of Israel: The study examines Israel's origins, tracing back to the patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, emphasizing the concept of divine election, where Israel was chosen not for its righteousness or power but because of God's promise to the patriarchs.

Covenant and Obedience: Israel's calling as a "kingdom of priests" involved living under God's covenant to demonstrate His character. The study highlights Deuteronomy's blessings for covenant obedience and curses for disobedience, which includes conquest and exile from the land.

Historical Context: The discussion touches on Israel's history of exile and dispersion, with references to prophecies in Ezekiel and Deuteronomy. These prophecies are seen as being fulfilled through events like the Babylonian captivity and later scattering, with a promise of eventual restoration.

Restoration and Prophecy: The study explores the idea of Israel's future restoration, both physically to the land and spiritually, as prophesied in Ezekiel and Zechariah. The restoration is seen as a fulfilment of God's concern for His holy name and the promises made to the patriarchs.

Contemporary Relevance: The Bible study connects ancient prophecies to modern events, particularly the re-establishment of Israel as a nation in 1947-48. It also discusses ongoing issues such as anti-Semitism, the controversial nature of Israel's existence, and differing Christian perspectives on Israel's role in God's plan.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1csQPmzUDacrPetkr6HGhzE9wEmxFLeqh/view?usp=drive_link

STUDY NOTES 2: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u-HWFv1DxbCZbb1qApg4XfTeu28RsaFv/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 14 - 30/09/22

This week we investigate bible verses that teach about Israel.

Centrality of Israel in the Bible: The study emphasizes that Israel is central to the biblical narrative, from its formation to its future, and highlights God's ongoing purposes with His people.

God’s Promises to Abraham: The group discusses Genesis 12:1-3, focusing on God's covenant with Abraham, promising to make him a great nation, bless those who bless him, and curse those who curse him. This establishes a foundational pattern of God’s relationship with Israel.

Election and the Lineage of Israel: The study delves into how God chose specific individuals, like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to carry the lineage of Israel, despite their human flaws and unlikely circumstances. This includes the renaming of Jacob to Israel after he wrestled with God.

Spiritual Significance of Names and Places: The significance of names (e.g., Israel meaning "he struggles with God") and places (e.g., Bethel, meaning "House of God") is explored, showing their deeper theological implications within the Bible.

Israel’s Prophetic and Future Role: The discussion also touches on Israel's future as revealed through prophecy, including the time of "Jacob's Trouble," which refers to a period of tribulation and refinement for the nation of Israel, ultimately leading to God's blessing.

STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1csQPmzUDacrPetkr6HGhzE9wEmxFLeqh/view?usp=drive_link

STUDY NOTES 2: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u-HWFv1DxbCZbb1qApg4XfTeu28RsaFv/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 13 - 16/09/22

This week we explore further the topic of how the bible explains death.

Opening Prayer: The session begins with a prayer thanking God for His unchanging mercy and for the salvation found in Jesus Christ. The prayer acknowledges that death for Christians is merely a change in state, with the hope of eternal life and glorified bodies that will worship God forever.

Recap of Last Session: A brief summary of the previous session highlights key points, including the origin of death in Genesis, where separation from God due to sin brought spiritual and physical death. The Christian hope is not found in avoiding death, but in the assurance of eternal life through Christ.

The Nature of Death: A discussion revisits the definition of death, clarifying that for Christians, death is not an end but a transition. Death is seen as a separation from physical life, but not a separation from God. The concept of death as "sleep" for believers is also emphasized.

Cultural Beliefs vs. Biblical Truth: The discussion touches on cultural beliefs such as reincarnation and contrasts them with biblical teaching. The Bible clearly states that humans die once and then face judgment (Hebrews 9:27-28), debunking myths of reincarnation and other non-biblical views on life after death.

Resurrection and Hope in Christ: 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 is explored to emphasize that the Christian hope hinges on Christ’s resurrection. Without Christ’s resurrection, faith would be in vain, and believers would still be in their sins. This affirms the centrality of the resurrection for Christian hope in life after death.

Purpose Beyond This Life: The session highlights that if all our hope is only for this life, then Christians would be the most pitiable of people. However, because of Christ’s resurrection, there is a purpose beyond this life. Death for a Christian is not the end but a passage into eternal life with God.

Response to Death: The final takeaway is a call to live steadfastly, always abounding in the work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:54-58). Christians are encouraged to live with a focus on eternity, knowing that their labor is not in vain, and to prepare for their death by maintaining a strong relationship with God.

DOWLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rglUjoafQ8VUJIm9_13EPs13a1lXNyjr/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 12 - 08/07/22

This week we begin looking at the subject of "death" from a biblical perspective.

Opening Prayer: The session begins with a prayer thanking God for gathering everyone to study His word, emphasizing the importance of seeking truth through scripture and living according to it.

Sensitivity of the Topic: The speaker introduces the sensitive topic of death, urging the need for prayer and seeking God’s perspective, reminding that death, for Christians, is not an end but a transition to life with God.

Understanding Death: Death is presented not as finality but as a passage. The speaker challenges the common perceptions of death and urges believers to live with eternity in view, reinforcing that death for the Christian leads to eternal life.

Biblical Insights on Death: Scriptures from Genesis and Thessalonians are explored, providing foundational understanding of the spiritual and physical dimensions of death, starting from humanity’s separation from God and eventual physical death due to sin.

Theological Reflections on Death: Discussions highlight the need for a Christian to prepare for death, looking to scriptures that describe it as a precious transition in the eyes of God, and dispelling false narratives about death in popular culture.

Life Beyond Death: A detailed conversation on the certainty of the afterlife is based on scripture. The comparison between Jesus' assurance of life after death and the uncertainty in non-Christian perspectives is discussed, reinforcing the Christian hope in resurrection.

Encouragement for the Christian Walk: The session encourages Christians to live fruitful lives, with a focus on eternity, reflecting that physical death is merely the beginning of eternal life with God. Living with this assurance helps eliminate fear and fosters purposeful living.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-RYurdkR7pt85F8EH_nPHzty5OGAqM2B/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 11 - 24/06/22

This week we investigate bible verses that teach about the gifts of The Holy Spirit.

The discussion focuses on understanding the spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible, emphasizing that these gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for the benefit of the entire church, not just the individual.

The group reflects on how spiritual gifts may complement natural abilities, suggesting that God prepares individuals over time to use both their natural and spiritual gifts for His purposes.

The importance of context and communal benefit is highlighted, with the gifts meant to serve the common good of the church body, not for personal gain or independent ministry.

There is an exploration of the biblical examples of God equipping individuals with specific skills, like those in Exodus 31 who were given wisdom and craftsmanship by the Spirit to build the Tabernacle.

The conversation also touches on the idea that the distribution of these gifts is determined by God's will, underscoring the belief that spiritual gifts are given as needed to fulfil the church's mission and not based on personal desire.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 10 - 10/06/22

This week we look at the Church, what is it? and why does it matter?

Definition of the Church: The concept of the church is rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, starting with the assembly of God’s people. In the New Testament, the Greek word Ecclesia refers to the "called-out ones," those called out of the world and into God’s Kingdom.

Purpose and Nature of the Church: The church consists of people, not buildings, united by their faith in Jesus Christ. This church, both local and universal, is bound by the shared calling to follow Christ and proclaim His name.

Foundation of the Church: The church is built on the confession that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. While Peter played a significant role, the true foundation is the truth of Jesus’ identity and His work.

Christ as the Head of the Church: Christ is the head of the church, and believers form His body, with each member having different roles and gifts. All members work together under the authority of Christ, supporting and encouraging each other in unity.

Fellowship and Unity in the Church: The early church shared not only their possessions but their lives, growing together in fellowship, worship, and teaching. This communal life exemplified unity and mutual care.

Role of the Church: The church is called to worship God, evangelize the world, disciple believers, and live as witnesses for Christ. The gifts of the Spirit empower the church to fulfill these roles in service to others.

Future of the Church: The ultimate destiny of the church is portrayed in Revelation, where believers from every nation, tribe, and tongue will worship God in His eternal Kingdom. This vision of the church’s future is one of unity, peace, and eternal communion with God.

DOWNLOAD STUDY NOTES: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u58XcCXViHLTLEgf5bLzpndehSJaIsnM/view?usp=drive_link

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 9 - 27/05/22

In this week's study we continue to look at what the bible says about The Holy Spirit.

Role of the Holy Spirit in Creation: The Holy Spirit was present at creation and is integral to all life. In the Old Testament, the Spirit empowered specific individuals, such as kings, prophets, and even a donkey, for particular tasks.

Promise of the Spirit in the New Covenant: The Spirit was promised by God through the prophets as part of the New Covenant. This would involve the Spirit being placed in people, teaching them God’s ways and transforming their hearts.

Jesus’ Teachings on the Holy Spirit (John 14-16): Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth, dwelling in believers and guiding them. The Holy Spirit would come after Jesus’ departure to continue His ministry, teaching and reminding believers of Jesus' words.

The Spirit’s Role in Conviction and Empowerment: The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and empowers believers to testify about Jesus, continuing the work of spreading the gospel.

Sanctification through the Spirit: The Holy Spirit transforms believers, guiding them into a deeper likeness of Christ, as seen in 2 Corinthians 3:18. The fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc.) are the visible evidence of this sanctification process.

Advocacy and Assurance of Salvation: The Spirit intercedes for believers, even when they do not know what to pray, and testifies with their spirit that they are children of God (Romans 8). This provides assurance of their relationship with God.

Birth of the Church at Pentecost: The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost marked the birth of the church, with the Spirit empowering the disciples to preach and lead thousands to Christ, fulfilling the prophecies of Joel and others.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

13/05/22

Led by Graeme McPherson

This week we begin looking at the topic of The Holy Spirit.

1) The Holy Spirit is God — eternal, personal, and present from creation

From the opening verses of Scripture, the Spirit is shown as co-creator and sustainer of all life: “the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters” (Gen 1:2). He is not an impersonal force but the living breath of God — ruach in Hebrew, pneuma in Greek — giving order to chaos and life to the world. The Father speaks, the Son is the Word, and the Spirit breathes life into all creation (John 1:1-3; Ps 104:30).

2) The Spirit is active throughout the Old Testament

Before Pentecost, the Spirit came upon individuals for specific purposes — empowering judges, kings, and prophets for God’s work (Judg 6:34; 1 Sam 10:10). He gave Samson strength, Gideon courage, and David wisdom. Yet His presence was not permanent in them; it came and went according to God’s purpose. This revealed both the Spirit’s divine power and humanity’s need for a fuller, enduring indwelling yet to come (Ps 51:11).

3) The Spirit is everywhere and sustains all life

Psalm 139:7 declares there is nowhere one can flee from His presence. The Spirit is the divine breath that sustains both man and beast; when God takes away His ruach, all creatures return to dust (Ps 104:29-30). He is not detached from creation but intimately involved in maintaining life. Every heartbeat and every breath are gifts of the Spirit’s continual work (Job 33:4).

4) The Spirit promised — the coming new covenant

The prophets foretold a day when God would pour out His Spirit on all His people, not just a chosen few (Ezek 36:26-27; Joel 2:28-29; Isa 44:3; Jer 31:31-34). This promise included new hearts, forgiveness of sin, and inward transformation — the law written on hearts rather than stone. The Spirit would bring renewal, holiness, and obedience, marking the dawn of a new covenant fulfilled through Christ (Heb 8:10).

5) The Spirit gives new birth and entrance into God’s kingdom

Jesus taught Nicodemus that entrance into God’s kingdom requires being “born of water and the Spirit” (John 3:5-8). Just as wind is unseen yet powerful, so the Spirit works invisibly but unmistakably to bring spiritual life. This rebirth is not human effort but divine regeneration — a work of grace that makes us new creations in Christ (Titus 3:5; 2 Cor 5:17).

6) The Spirit reveals and glorifies Christ

Jesus promised “another Helper,” the Spirit of truth, who would live with and in believers forever (John 14:16-17). The Spirit teaches, comforts, and reminds us of Christ’s words (John 14:26). He never contradicts Scripture, for He is its author (2 Pet 1:21). His work always glorifies Jesus, never Himself (John 16:13-14). When confusion or disorder arise in His name, it is not the Spirit of truth, for “God is not a God of confusion but of peace” (1 Cor 14:33).

7) The Spirit indwells, guides, and sanctifies believers

Every true believer has the Holy Spirit dwelling within — our Comforter, Counselor, and Advocate (Rom 8:9-11). He convicts of sin, produces holiness, and bears fruit in us: love, joy, peace, and all righteousness (Gal 5:22-23). He empowers us to live for Christ, leads us through trials, and assures us of God’s presence even in spiritual dryness. The Spirit’s abiding presence is both God’s seal and our strength to walk daily in obedience and communion with Him (Eph 1:13-14; Rom 8:14-16).

Fortnightly Bible Study.

15/04/22

Led by Akin George

This week, we look at the centrality of the cross in our faith.

1. The cross is central—and God-timed

Understanding the cross is essential to Christian faith; without it, we have no gospel (1 Cor 2:2; 1 Cor 15:3–4). Even its “Good Friday” timing reminds us that God orders salvation history (Acts 2:23). Jesus calls every disciple to take up the cross daily—self-denial shaped by His sacrifice (Luke 9:23; Gal 6:14).

2. Scripture fulfilled at Calvary

John 19 shows Jesus carrying His cross, the inscription over Him, the casting of lots, the hyssop, and the cry “It is finished,” all fulfilling Scripture (John 19:17–30; Ps 22:16–18; Exod 12:22). The torn veil declares open access to God through Christ’s death (Matt 27:51; Heb 10:19–22).

3. “It is finished”: the once-for-all atonement

Jesus’ finished work ends the sacrificial system by offering one perfect sacrifice for sins forever (John 19:30; Heb 10:11–14). God vindicated Him by the resurrection, making Him both Lord and Christ and calling all to repent and be forgiven (Acts 2:24, 36–38).

4. Substitution and holy wrath borne by the Son

At the cross Jesus, the sinless One, became sin for us, bearing God’s righteous wrath in our place—fulfilling Isaiah’s Servant song and crying out in dereliction (2 Cor 5:21; Isa 53:4–6; Matt 27:46; Rom 3:25). Gethsemane reveals the real cup He faced, not merely physical pain but judgment for sin (Luke 22:42–44).

5. Salvation received by faith, not works

The repentant thief shows salvation is by grace through faith alone: he recognizes Jesus’ kingship and receives Paradise that very day (Luke 23:39–43; Eph 2:8–9). As Israel looked to the bronze serpent and lived, so we look to the crucified Son and have life (Num 21:8–9; John 3:14–15).

6. Crucified to the world; raised to a new life

Believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection—our guilt cancelled, hostile decrees nailed to the cross, powers disarmed (Rom 6:3–11; Col 2:13–15). Therefore we boast only in the cross: the world is crucified to us and we to the world, and what counts is a new creation (Gal 6:14–15; Phil 3:7–9).

7. Compelled to live for Christ and witness to Him

Christ’s love compels us: He died so we no longer live for ourselves but for Him who died and rose (2 Cor 5:14–15). The word of the cross is power to the saved and a stumbling block to many, so we pray, live holy lives, and speak the gospel with gentleness and reverence (1 Cor 1:18, 23; 1 Pet 3:15; Rom 10:14–15; Matt 28:18–20).

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 6 - 01/04/22

This week we look at what the bible says about Jesus.

Progressive Knowledge of Jesus: The study opens by emphasizing that knowing Jesus is an ever-growing, progressive journey, not something that can be fully understood in a single moment.

Scripture Reflection (John 14:5-10 and Colossians 1:15-20): Jesus identifies Himself as "the way, the truth, and the life," affirming His unity with the Father, while Colossians emphasizes Jesus as the image of the invisible God and the creator and sustainer of all things.

Challenges in Introducing Jesus to Non-believers: The group discusses the difficulty of introducing Jesus to people unfamiliar with Him, stressing the need to address humanity's need for salvation before presenting Jesus as the answer.

John 5:8-15 – Encountering Jesus: The story of Jesus healing a man who initially doesn’t know Him is discussed, demonstrating how an initial encounter with Jesus can lead to a deeper understanding of who He is.

Jesus as the Bread of Life (John 6:35-58): Jesus is presented as the living bread, greater than the manna in the wilderness, symbolizing spiritual nourishment and eternal life for those who believe in Him.

The Importance of Scripture and Revelation: The Bible is discussed as the living word that points to Jesus. The group emphasizes the need for divine revelation to truly know Jesus, not just intellectual understanding.

Personal Knowledge of Jesus: The discussion concludes by stressing the importance of personal knowledge of Jesus, as demonstrated in John 17:3, where eternal life is defined as knowing God and Jesus Christ, encouraging the group to continuously seek deeper knowledge of Him.

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 5 - 18/03/22

This week we look at how God has planned a for salvation from the beginning.

God’s Holiness and Man’s Sinfulness

God is perfectly holy, and no sin can exist in His presence (1 John 1:5). Man was created in God’s image to have fellowship with Him, but because of Adam’s sin, humanity became polluted with sin (Romans 3:23), creating a separation from God (Isaiah 59:2).

The Consequence of Sin

Sin resulted in death and separation from God (Romans 6:23). Humans cannot cleanse themselves or pay the price for their own sin because they are inherently sinful by nature, not merely by actions (Ephesians 2:1).

God’s Eternal Plan for Salvation

God’s plan to save humanity was established before the foundation of the world (1 Peter 1:19-20, Revelation 13:8). Salvation was not a reaction to human sin but part of His eternal purpose to reconcile sinful man to Himself through the blood of Jesus (Hebrews 13:20).

The Necessity of Blood for Atonement

The Bible teaches that “the life of the flesh is in the blood” and that atonement for sin requires the shedding of blood (Leviticus 17:11, Hebrews 9:22). Animal sacrifices in the Old Testament were a temporary covering, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood would fully atone for humanity’s sin (Hebrews 10:1-4).

Jesus as the Substitutionary Sacrifice

Jesus, who knew no sin, became sin on our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). His death on the cross was the ultimate substitutionary atonement, paying the debt for human sin (Romans 3:24-25). Jesus' sinless life made Him the perfect and only acceptable sacrifice.

The Wrath of God and Propitiation

Without accepting Jesus, the wrath of God remains upon sinful humanity (John 3:36). Jesus’ death was an act of propitiation, satisfying God's righteous judgment against sin (1 John 4:10). His sacrifice removed the penalty of sin for those who believe, granting forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

The Resurrection and Victory Over Sin and Death

The resurrection of Jesus is essential to the salvation plan (1 Corinthians 15:17-22). It confirms the defeat of sin and death, offering believers the hope of eternal life. Without the resurrection, faith would be futile, and humanity would still be under the penalty of sin. Jesus’ victory over death assures us of our future resurrection and eternal life with God.

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 61 - 04/03/22

This week we look at what the bible says about sin itself.

What is Sin?

Sin is defined as lawlessness (1 John 3:4-5). It is the breaking of God's law, not human or societal standards. Sin is falling short of the glory and standards of God (Romans 3:23). Human beings cannot determine sin; only God’s principles can.

Origin of Sin

Sin entered the world through Adam’s disobedience (Genesis 3, Romans 5:12). The inherent sinful nature was passed on to all humanity. We are born with a sinful nature, which is why we need to be born again.

The Pathway of Sin

Sin begins with temptation and desire (James 1:13-15). Just like Eve was enticed by the forbidden fruit, sin follows a pattern of being tempted, indulging in the temptation, and leading to death. Sin starts with doubting God's word and seeking satisfaction outside of His will.

The Consequences of Sin

Sin has serious consequences, both spiritually and practically. It leads to separation from God, death, and affects others in the world (Romans 6:23). Sinful actions can cause pain and suffering not only to the sinner but also to those around them (like the Fall in Genesis 3).

Human Sinfulness

All people have sinned (Romans 3:23). Sin is inherent in all humans due to Adam's transgression, making everyone guilty before God and in need of salvation. Even cultural norms that differ from God's law do not exempt anyone from sin.

Remedy for Sin

Jesus Christ is the only remedy for sin (Romans 5:8-10). He died to take away the sins of the world (John 1:29) and provide atonement. Through His blood, believers are justified, forgiven, and reconciled to God (1 John 1:5, 2 Corinthians 5:21).

Victory Over Sin

Although Christians continue to battle the corruption of sin, they are no longer condemned by it. Jesus’ death and resurrection provide believers the power to overcome sin daily through the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:1, 1 John 4:4). Daily, Christians must rely on God’s grace and walk in the freedom Christ provides.

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 3 - 18/02/22

Led by Graeme McPherson

This week we investigate the ideas of creation from a biblical perspective.

God is the Creator of all things, bringing order from nothing: Genesis 1:1–2:3 reveals that by His Word and Spirit, God created the heavens and the earth, shaping chaos into beauty and declaring it all “very good,” with no resistance to His will.

Creation displays divine wisdom, structure, and purpose: Each act of creation unfolds in deliberate sequence—light, sky, land, life, and humanity—showing God’s power, intentionality, and delight in what He made.

Humanity is the pinnacle of creation, made in God’s image: Male and female were created to reflect God’s nature, to be relational, creative, moral, and to rule as His representatives over the earth. (Gen 1:26–28)

The creation account affirms both God’s sovereignty and man’s dependence: The world and its rhythms—day and night, seasons, creatures, and rest—exist by divine command, teaching that all life flows from God and is sustained by Him.

Genesis 2 expands the story with intimacy and relationship: God personally forms Adam from dust, breathes life into him, provides Eden for fellowship, and fashions Eve from his side, showing divine design for companionship, equality, and unity.

Creation points forward to redemption and new creation: The first garden, with its rivers and tree of life, foreshadows the restored creation in Revelation where God dwells again with His people, completing His purpose through Christ.

The purpose of creation is God’s glory and our joy in Him: Humanity was made to enjoy God and praise Him; all creation testifies to His wisdom and beauty, and though marred by sin, His plan remains to renew it for His eternal praise. (Ps 19:1; Prov 8:22–31; Rev 21:1–5)

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 2 - 05/02/22

Led by Graeme McPherson

This week we begin to tackle the subject of what the bible says about God.

God reveals Himself through creation and Scripture: Psalm 19 teaches that the heavens proclaim God’s glory, yet truly knowing His character comes from His perfect, soul-reviving Word. (Ps 19:1–11)

God is the eternal Creator outside of time: “In the beginning” God created all things by His Word and Spirit—He precedes and authors time, brings order out of chaos, and declares light. (Gen 1:1–4; John 1:1–3)

God is one and triune: The LORD is “one” (a unity of oneness), yet the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit share the one Name into which disciples are baptized. (Deut 6:4; Matt 28:19; hints in Gen 1:2–3; John 1:1)

God is sovereign over history and nations: He changes times and seasons, raises up and removes kings, and sets the boundaries and periods of peoples—therefore we pray for rulers and trust His providence. (Dan 2:20–22; Acts 17:24–26; 1 Tim 2:1–2)

God is omnipresent and omniscient, near and personal: There is no place His presence does not reach; He searches and knows us, even forming us in the womb. (Ps 139:1–16, 7–12; Matt 10:29–31)

God is perfectly just and perfectly loving, fulfilled in Christ: His works and ways are flawless and upright, and His love is revealed as He sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins—justice satisfied, mercy extended. (Deut 32:3–4; 1 John 4:7–10; Rom 3:24–26)

Our fitting response is faith, humility, and obedient love: Some things remain mysterious, yet God has made Himself known supremely in Jesus; therefore we believe, worship, seek wisdom, love one another, and bear witness in the Spirit’s power. (Heb 11:6; John 3:12–15; John 14:9; 1 John 4:11–12; Acts 1:8)

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Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 1 - 21/01/22

Our opening bible study in our new series - To kick things off we take a look at what the bible says about the bible itself.

The Bible’s Composition: The Bible is a diverse library of 66 books written by around 40 authors over 1,600 years in three languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek). It includes various types of writing, such as history, poetry, prophecy, and law.

Divine Inspiration: All scripture is "God-breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16-17), meaning it was written by human authors under the guidance of the Holy Spirit to record God’s truth without error.

Revelation, Inspiration, and Illumination: The Bible is a result of divine revelation (God revealing truth), inspiration (humans recording it), and illumination (understanding the truth). All three work together to communicate God’s message.

Trustworthiness of the Bible: The Bible is validated by fulfilled prophecy, historical accuracy, and archaeological evidence. Its unity—despite being written by different authors—also confirms its divine origin.

Miraculous Preservation: The Bible has been preserved through history, as demonstrated by discoveries like the Dead Sea Scrolls, which match modern biblical texts, confirming its accuracy and reliability over centuries.

Jesus as the Living Word: The Bible identifies Jesus as the Word of God (John 1:1-3, 1:14). This underscores the unity between scripture and Christ, and how the Bible points to Him throughout.

Eternal and Unchanging Truth: God's word is eternal, enduring beyond time and space (Psalm 119:160). It is not just inspired in parts but fully true and authoritative in its entirety.

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