Thank God It’s Christmas — Jesus Presented in the Temple
Luke 2:22–40
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Sunday 28 December, 6:00pm
In the quiet days after Christmas, Luke 2:22–40 draws us into the temple, where an ordinary act of obedience becomes a moment of extraordinary revelation. As Mary and Joseph present the infant Jesus to the Lord, God fulfils long-awaited promises through the faithful words of Simeon and Anna.
This encounter reveals the heart of the gospel. Jesus is recognised as God’s salvation—a light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. Even as a child, He is set apart to bring redemption, not only through joy but through suffering, pointing ahead to the cross where salvation would be won. The child held in Simeon’s arms is the Saviour who will give His life to redeem the world.
As Christmas draws to a close, this service invites us to pause, reflect, and respond. Like Simeon and Anna, we are called to recognise Jesus for who He truly is, to trust God’s faithfulness, and to rejoice that in Christ, God has kept His promise to bring light, hope, and salvation to all people.
Thank God It’s Christmas — Song of the Shepherds and Angels
Luke 2:1–21
Preacher: Ian Morrison
Christmas Day | 25 December, 9:30am
On the first Christmas night, heaven breaks its silence with song. In Luke 2:1–21, angels announce astonishing news to ordinary shepherds: “Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” What follows is a chorus of praise that reveals the true meaning of Christmas.
The Song of the Shepherds and Angels proclaims the heart of the gospel. God enters our world not in power or prestige, but in humility—born as a child, laid in a manger, and welcomed by those on the margins. The angels’ message of peace is not just comfort for a weary world; it is the good news that through Jesus, God has come to rescue sinners, reconcile us to Himself, and restore what is broken.
As the shepherds hurry to see the child and return glorifying God, we are invited to join their song. This Christmas Day, we gather to rejoice that the Saviour has come near, that grace has appeared, and that the glory of God now shines in the face of Jesus Christ—for us and for all.
Thank God It’s Christmas — Mary’s Song
Luke 1:26–56
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Sunday 21 December, 9:30am
In the lead-up to Christmas, we pause to listen to a young woman’s song that still echoes with hope, courage, and wonder. In Luke 1:26–56, Mary responds to God’s unexpected call with trust and praise, bursting into what we now call the Magnificat—a song that celebrates who God is and what He has come to do.
Mary’s Song draws us into the heart of the gospel. It proclaims a God who steps into human history, who lifts the lowly, shows mercy to the undeserving, and keeps His promises. Through Mary, we see that Christmas is not just about a baby in a manger, but about God’s great rescue plan unfolding—Jesus entering the world to bring forgiveness, justice, and new life.
As we reflect on Mary’s faith and joy, we are invited to see ourselves in the story: people met by grace, called to trust God’s word, and drawn into praise for the Saviour who has come near. This Christmas, come and rediscover the good news that God is faithful, His mercy endures, and His salvation has arrived in Jesus Christ.
Sermon Series: 150th Anniversary Celebration
Title: God’s Special Possession
Passage: 1 Peter 2:4–10
Preacher: Archbishop Kanishka Raffel
Date & Time: Sunday 14 December 2025, 9:30 am
As we celebrate 150 years of God’s faithfulness, this message draws us back to the heart of who we are in Christ. In 1 Peter 2:4–10, we are reminded that God has made us His special possession—not because of our achievements, but because of His grace. Through Jesus Christ, the living cornerstone rejected by the world but chosen by God, we have been built into a spiritual house and called into His marvellous light. The gospel declares that Christ gave Himself for us, so that we might belong to God and proclaim His praises to the world. In this anniversary sermon, Archbishop Kanishka Raffel will encourage us to give thanks for the past, stand firm in the present, and look ahead with confidence as God’s redeemed people, set apart to live for His glory.
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: Gospel Teamwork (Part 2)
Passage: Romans 16:1–27
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Date & Time: Sunday 7 December 2025, 9:30 am
As Paul concludes his letter to the Romans, he paints a beautiful picture of the church as a team shaped and empowered by the gospel. Romans 16:1–27 celebrates ordinary believers—friends, households, co-workers, risk-takers—whose lives are bound together by the saving work of Jesus. The gospel has reconciled us to God through Christ’s death and resurrection, and now it knits us together in partnership for His mission. Paul’s final words remind us that the strength and unity of God’s people rest not on human effort, but on “the gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ,” which reveals God’s eternal plan. In this final message of Romans (Heaven Sent), Robin Vonk invites us to marvel at the God who saves, gathers, equips, and sends His people—so that all glory might go to Him forever.
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: Gospel Teamwork (Part 1)
Passage: Romans 16:1–23
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Date & Time: Sunday 30 November 2025, 6:00 pm
Romans 16:1–23 is more than a list of names—it’s a snapshot of a vibrant gospel community. Paul honours men and women, Jews and Gentiles, households and servants, all united by one thing: the saving work of Jesus Christ. The gospel creates a new family where every person matters and every gift counts. Jesus has reconciled us to God through His death and resurrection, and now He draws us into partnership with one another for His mission. In this sermon, Robin Vonk explores how the cross forms teams marked by love, sacrifice, hospitality, and perseverance, and how the church today can embody that same gospel-shaped teamwork.
Listen to Andrew as he shares:
Further Reading: Edlin, R. (2014) The Cause of Christian Education. (4th ed.). Vision Press.
"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." - Philippians 4:11
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: The Gospel’s Mission Heartbeat
Passage: Romans 15:14–33
Preacher: Andrew Middleton
Date & Time: Sunday 23 November 2025, 9:30 am
In Romans 15:14-33, Paul opens his heart and reveals the driving force behind his ministry: the unstoppable mission of the gospel. His passion to take Christ to unreached places flows from what Jesus has done—offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice, rising in victory, and drawing people from every nation into God’s family. The gospel beats with a global pulse, and Paul’s plans, prayers, and partnerships all echo that rhythm. In this sermon, Andrew Middleton explores how the finished work of Christ compels God’s people to generous support, joyful sacrifice, and bold mission. As we see God’s grace at work in Paul, we are invited to align our hearts with Christ’s own mission heartbeat—so that the good news may be proclaimed to the ends of the earth.
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: Church (and World) Peace
Passage: Romans 15:1–13
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Date & Time: Sunday 16 November 2025, 6 pm
What hope is there for true peace—in the church and in the world? In Romans 15:1–13, Paul shows that unity among God’s people is not built on shared preferences or similar backgrounds, but on the saving work of Christ. Jesus bore our weaknesses, welcomed us into God’s family, and fulfilled God’s promises so that Jew and Gentile together might glorify God with one voice. The gospel is the foundation of peace: through the cross, Christ reconciled us to God and to one another, breaking down every dividing wall. In this sermon, Robin Vonk unpacks how the hope of Jesus fills His people with endurance, encouragement, and joy so that we might overflow with peace—not only in the church, but as a witness to the watching world.
Mel explores moving around Australia, Bible Club and more in this episode of Stories of the Saints.
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: Christian Liberty and Gracious Sensitivity
Passage: Romans 14:1–23
Preacher: Ian Morrison
Date & Time: Sunday 9 November 2025, 6:00 pm
How do we live together when we disagree on matters of conscience? In Romans 14:1–23, Paul calls believers to balance freedom in Christ with love for one another. The gospel reminds us that our standing before God doesn’t depend on dietary rules, traditions, or personal convictions—it depends entirely on Jesus, who lived, died, and rose again for us. Because He is Lord of both the strong and the weak, we are free to serve one another with humility and grace rather than judgment or pride. In this sermon, Ian Morrison will show how the cross shapes our relationships within the church, teaching us to use our freedom not for self, but for the good of others, so that in everything we might reflect the love and unity found in Christ.
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: The Debt of Love
Passage: Romans 13:8–14
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Date & Time: Sunday 2 November 2025, 9:30 am
Paul tells us in Romans 13:8-14 that there’s one debt we can never fully repay—the debt of love. As followers of Jesus, we owe love to one another, not as a burden, but as the natural response to the love we’ve received. The gospel reveals the source of that love: Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law by giving Himself for us. Through His death and resurrection, He paid the debt of our sin and clothed us with His righteousness, freeing us to live in the light. Now, as people made new in Christ, we are called to “put on the Lord Jesus” and love others as He has loved us. In this sermon, Robin Vonk explores how the gospel transforms duty into delight—calling us to live awake, ready, and radiant with the love of Christ.
"You will never find peace until you have found peace with God."
He grew up near Goulburn and remembers the day the war ended. He met his wife at a dance and was married to her for 58 years. He has dealt with tragedy but held onto faith through it all. Listen to his wisdom for those younger. Listen to Ron Gooley share about all this and more in this episode of Stories of the Saints.
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" - Isaiah 41:10
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: The Christian and the State
Passage: Romans 13:1–7
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Date & Time: Sunday 26 October 2025, 6:00 pm
How should followers of Jesus relate to those in authority? In Romans 13:1–7, Paul reminds us that every governing power exists under God’s sovereign hand. Christians are called to live with humility, respect, and obedience—not because rulers are perfect, but because our ultimate allegiance is to the Lord who reigns above all. The gospel transforms how we see authority: Jesus Himself submitted to earthly powers, even to death on a cross, so that through His obedience we might be set free from the tyranny of sin. As those redeemed by His grace, we honour earthly authorities as an expression of trust in the God who rules over them. In this message, Robin Vonk explores how the gospel shapes our citizenship—calling us to live peaceably, responsibly, and faithfully under the true King, Jesus Christ.
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: Practical Christianity
Passage: Romans 12:9–21
Preacher: Steve Inman
Date & Time: Sunday 19 October 2025, 9:30 am
What does genuine Christian love look like in action? In Romans 12:9–21, Paul moves from belief to behaviour—showing how the gospel transforms everyday relationships. The call to bless our enemies, repay evil with good, and overcome hatred with love is impossible on our own. But the good news is that Jesus has already lived this out perfectly for us. On the cross, He conquered evil not with power or revenge, but with self-giving love. Through His Spirit, we are now freed and empowered to reflect that same love to others. In this message, Steve Inman unpacks how the mercy we’ve received in Christ reshapes our hearts, our actions, and the way we respond to the world around us.
Listen as she shares about growing up in a Christian family, dressing up for church and turning to God. Not only that, but hear about her recent mission trip to Fiji!
🔗Photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1njedovpqlo5vOsordRWFhuU7toMv1e7E?usp=sharing
"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." - Psalm 100
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: Do Not Conform, Be Transformed
Passage: Romans 12:1–8
Preacher: Ian Morrison
Date & Time: Sunday 12 October 2025, 6:00 pm
In light of God’s mercy, how should we live? In Romans 12:1–8, Paul urges us not to be shaped by the world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This transformation begins with the gospel: Jesus gave Himself as the ultimate living sacrifice, dying and rising so that we might belong to God and live for Him. Because of His grace, we are no longer conformed to sin and selfishness but renewed by the Spirit to serve one another with humility and love. In this sermon, Ian Morrison explores how the gospel changes everything—our hearts, our thinking, and our purpose—calling us to offer our lives in joyful worship to the One who gave His life for us.
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: And All Israel Will Be Saved
Passage: Romans 11:25–36
Preacher: Robin Vonk
Date & Time: Sunday 5 October 2025, 6:00 pm
God’s plan of salvation is bigger and wiser than we can imagine. In Romans 11:25–36, Paul reveals the mystery of how God is working through both Jew and Gentile to bring about His saving purposes. Though people may stumble, God’s promises never fail—His mercy triumphs over disobedience. At the centre of this plan stands the gospel: Jesus Christ, who bore our sin at the cross and rose in power, so that forgiveness and life might be offered to all. In Him, God’s mercy is extended to Jew and Gentile alike, uniting His people in one family of grace. Join us as Robin Vonk unpacks this glorious vision of God’s faithfulness and leads us to echo Paul’s doxology: “To Him be the glory forever!”
Listen as Bron tells of her life: growing up in Blaxland, attending blue light discos, leaping trains, debt collecting, living in the States, homelessness, and more.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7
Sermon Series: Romans – Heaven Sent
Title: The Kindness and Sternness of God
Passage: Romans 11:11–24
Preacher: Ian Marrison
Date & Time: Sunday 28 September 2025, 6:00 pm
In Romans 11:11–24, Paul paints a sobering yet hope-filled picture of God’s dealings with His people. Israel’s stumbling opened the door for the nations to be grafted into God’s family, yet Paul warns that pride and unbelief can cut us off. Here we see both the sternness of God in judging sin and the kindness of God in showing mercy. The gospel holds these truths together: Jesus bore the sternness of God’s judgment at the cross so that we might receive His kindness and be grafted into the life of Christ. In this sermon, Ian Marrison will demonstrate how God’s holiness and mercy meet in Jesus, calling us to humility, faith, and confidence in the God who both warns and welcomes.