Kingdom’s dawn unfolds,Sermon’s words, a gentle guide,Love’s final sacrifice.
You are Peter
There is a very interesting moment in John’s gospel chapter one. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). John 1 v 42. Don’t you think this is a bizarre moment? How many times have you had someone walk up to […]
Spiritual Families
Ever feel like you don’t quite fit in? Or maybe you’re looking for a sense of belonging? Check out Matthew 12:50: “For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” That’s Jesus saying that our spiritual family is just as real – and maybe even more so […]
Love: The Superpower of a Christian Life
And the final L is love. We’ve looked at the tongue and at lies but for the last one it is love. Love ties all this together. If we love then we will hold our tongue, we will not lie and we will live to love and show kindness. But what is love. It’s a […]
Finding the Narrow Path
Life throws a lot at us, doesn’t it? Choices, distractions, and sometimes it feels like everyone’s heading in one direction. Jesus, though, gives us a clear picture in Matthew 7:13-14: there’s a wide gate and an easy road that leads to destruction, and a narrow gate and difficult road that leads to life. It’s tempting […]
Part 3: What to Pray – Exploring the Breadth of Communication
Prayer can encompass every aspect of our lives. It’s not just about asking for things; it’s about building a relationship with God. Praying for Others Jesus taught us to love our neighbours as ourselves. We should try to pray for our family, friends, teachers, and even those you find difficult. “But I tell you, love […]
Warm Feet, Open Hearts: Reflecting on General Booth’s Wisdom for Evangelism
General William Booth, the founder of The Salvation Army, famously said, “It is impossible to comfort men’s hearts with the love of God when their feet are perishing with cold.” This powerful statement speaks volumes about the practical and holistic nature of true evangelism. It highlights the crucial connection between meeting physical needs and opening […]
Hosea 12: Wrestling with God
Introduction Hosea 12 is a powerful and challenging chapter. It paints a picture of Israel’s stubbornness, their tendency to forget God’s faithfulness, and their reliance on empty rituals. It’s a story that resonates even today, reminding us of our own struggles with faith and obedience. Let’s dive in and see what God wants to teach […]
Hosea 11: God’s Love for his People
Introduction Hosea 11 is a powerful passage that reveals God’s deep love and sorrow for His people. It’s a love story, a story of betrayal, and ultimately, a story of unwavering grace. It speaks to us today just as it did to the Israelites centuries ago. Reading: Hosea 11:1-11 (Read aloud or individually) Discussion & […]
Hosea 10: Sowing the Wind, Reaping the Whirlwind
Introduction Hosea 10 paints a vivid picture of Israel’s spiritual decline and the inevitable consequences. It’s a challenging but crucial passage for us to explore, as it reveals God’s unwavering love alongside His just judgment. It also offers glimpses of hope and foreshadows the coming of Jesus. Reading: Hosea 10:1-15 (Have everyone read a verse […]
Pharisee
The Pharisees were a prominent group within Judaism during the Second Temple period (roughly 515 BC to 70 AD). The name “Pharisee” likely comes from the Hebrew “parash,” meaning “to separate,” which may refer to their separation from ritual impurity or from Gentile influences. Origins and Role The Pharisees emerged in the context of increasing […]
Hosea 8: Judgement
Introduction Hosea chapter 8 is a stark warning of impending judgement on Israel due to their rejection of God and their reliance on idols and foreign alliances. The chapter emphasises the futility of their actions and the inevitable consequences of their disobedience. Key Passage “They sow the wind and reap the whirlwind. The stalk has […]