From the series 'Fruitful Disciples' - Good Soil
In the Parable of the Soils (Mark 4:1-20), Jesus says it is the quality of the soil which determines the fruitfulness of the crop. How did Jesus ensure that his own life was good soil for a fruitful ministry? The key is in his baptism and temptation (Matthew 3:13-4:11): before he uttered a word of public preaching, Jesus was secure in his identity as God’s beloved Son, received the Spirit, and dealt with potential temptation and bad motivations before they could trip him up. He then continued to protect these things in his life. When we pay attention to these foundational things, we will be well-prepared, rich soil, not rocky, stony or thorny.
Paul Rogers 25.06.23
From the series 'Fruitful Disciples' - Are we Willing? (Matthew 14:22-33)
To be fruitful disciples, first we need to ask ourselves we willing to pursue Jesus in our own discipleship? Using the story of Peter walking on water, are we willing to get out of the boat!?
Chris Burgess 18.06.23
From the series 'Fruitful Disciples' - Designed for Fruitfulness
From Genesis 1 onwards, we see God’s intentions to bless the earth with fruitfulness, flourishing and abundance. Land that is fruitful nourishes life and enables it to multiply. Israel failed at various times to be fruitful, because of their idolatry (Hosea 14:4-8) and, later, their rejection of Jesus (Matt 3:7-11).
Jesus taught that the fruit we bear reveals what is within (Luke 6:43-45), and that God has given his people the job of producing and gathering fruit (Matt 21:33-44) for Him. If bearing fruit shows that we are his disciples, what does it mean to produce and gather fruit? It is a life that matches the reality of being a new creation and pleases God, and which reproduces itself
Erica Richmond 11.06.23
From the series 'The Real Deal - Part 2' - Becoming an Outsider (Hebrews 13:1-14)
As we conclude this series, we spend time on the author's last remarks in this letter with some practical instructions to give faith a tangible outworking. As disciples of Jesus, there is a challenge for us to step out of our comfort zone as we do this.
Paul Rogers 04.06.23
Pentecost International Sunday - Acts 2
Today we celebrate being part of an international church! As we remember the day of Pentecost and the significance for the early church, what does it mean for us today as the church? Are we open to receive the Spirit? Do we continue to seek & be transformed?
Paul Rogers 28.05.23