Every year we seek to equip the church by teaching on pastoral issues from Scripture. The aim is both to help those who perhaps struggle in this particular area, and/or to equip those who care for those who struggle. In some cases, it may even bring about a compassion and a move to care for the issue for the first time, having become aware of the issue afresh and anew. Each theme will be looked at through the lens of the Gospel, in order to enable us to live for Jesus every day, no matter our circumstances.
Caring Community
John 11 - Death - Alex Warren
(Video)
Evening Service, Monday, January 24, 2022
As a part of being a caring community we of course come along side those who are mourning, and those who are suffering. A Christian message on death gives us an incredible hope. In this passage we see Jesus anger at death and the destruction and pain it causes, we see Him mourn with His friends and we see the power of Jesus as He gives us a glimpse at His power to overcome death, pointing to His own resurrection and ultimate defeat of death of itself.
Deuteronomy 8:1-9 - Testing - Christiaan Hofstra
(Video)
Evening Service, Sunday, January 30, 2022
When studying the Bible a clear picture emerges that God tests his people both individually and corporately. Normally tests are to see if we're good enough or fit enough. Deuteronomy 8:1-9 reveals God tests to humble us, reveal our heart, teach and discipline us. Times of God's testing aren't easy. To be humbled is painful. However in testing us God is moved by grace, by the longing to bring growth and for the sake of his glory. So if we've never experienced God's testing may we see God's goodness in it. If we are in the midst of such times may we cling to him finding sustaining life in His Word. If we've been through it may we remember, rejoice and renew our commitment to Him.