In this week's sermon on Leviticus 23:9–14 and 1 Corinthians 15:13–28, Robin Kinstead continues the Thanksgiving for Jesus the Messiah series by teaching on the Feast of First Fruits and its fulfilment in the resurrection of Jesus. He explains how Israel offered their very first sheaf of grain to the Lord as an act of trust, gratitude, and anticipation of the full harvest to come, and shows how this practice points forward to Christ as the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. Robin contrasts “first fruits” with the imagery of “FOGO” (waste), urging believers to offer God their best rather than leftovers in their time, talents, resources, and spiritual devotion. He also highlights how Jesus’ resurrection guarantees the future resurrection of His people, shaping how Christians persevere through waiting, suffering, and even death with confidence in God’s promises. 5 Questions to Think About 1. What “first fruits” is God calling you to offer Him—time, talents, treasures, or attitudes—and what might currently be “FOGO” instead? 2. How does the Feast of First Fruits in Leviticus 23 deepen your understanding of Jesus as the first to rise never to die again (1 Corinthians 15:20)? 3. Where do you need to trust God’s promises in seasons of waiting, just as Israel trusted God would bring them into the land? 4. How does Jesus’ resurrection reshape the way you view death, grief, and the hope of seeing loved ones again? 5. What current commitments or habits might need re-ordering in light of the future harvest God has promised?   3 Things to Take Away 1. Jesus is the first fruits of resurrection — His victory over death guarantees the full future harvest of all who belong to Him. 2. First fruits belong to God — Followers of Jesus are called to give Him their best, not their leftovers, in every area of life. 3. Hope sustains perseverance — Because God is a promise-keeper, believers can endure hardship, wait with patience, and live confidently in light of the coming resurrection.

In this sermon, Robin Kinstead explores the Feast of Unleavened Bread in Leviticus 23 and its fulfilment in Jesus Christ, connecting Israel’s removal of leaven to the Christian call to holy living. Through Scripture—including 1 Corinthians 5—Robin explains how leaven symbolises sin’s corrupting power and how Jesus, our Passover Lamb, not only died and rose again but was buried so our sin might be buried with Him. He encourages the church to examine their lives, identify the “leaven” that threatens their spiritual health, and pursue sincere, truth-filled discipleship empowered by the Holy Spirit. The message includes pastoral encouragement, reflection on holiness, and an invitation to respond as God’s redeemed people. 5 Questions to Think About What is the “one thing” in your life—your personal leaven—that is most dangerous to your spiritual health? How does understanding Jesus’ burial deepen your appreciation of His work in removing and burying your sin? In what ways can pride, bitterness, or hidden sin subtly “leaven” your relationships within the church? What practical steps could you take to create space for God to cultivate sincerity and truth in your daily life? Who can help you walk in holiness—through accountability, prayer, or shared encouragement? 3 Things to Take Away Jesus, our Passover Lamb, has not only died for sin but buried it—calling us to bury our sin with Him. A little leaven (sin) affects the whole community; holiness is both an individual and shared responsibility. God provides the Spirit, His Word, and His people to help us continually “spring clean” our lives and grow in sincerity and truth.

In this sermon on Leviticus 23:4–5 and Luke 22:7–20, Robin Kinstead continues the Thanksgiving for Jesus the Messiah series by exploring the meaning of Passover and redemption. He traces the original Passover event in Exodus 12, where God rescued Israel from slavery through the blood of a spotless lamb, and shows how this rescue anticipates the greater salvation Jesus accomplishes as the true Passover Lamb. Robin explains how Jesus fulfills the Passover meal at the Last Supper, establishing the new covenant in His body and blood, and calls the church to remember God’s rescue with gratitude rather than entitlement. He also connects the Passover to the Lord’s Supper and the believer’s ongoing call to repentance, reconciliation, and holy living, reminding us that Jesus is not only the Lamb who was slain but the risen Lamb who reigns and will gather His people to the final feast in the new creation. 5 Questions to Think About: How does the original Passover in Exodus 12 help you appreciate more deeply Jesus’ sacrifice as the true Passover Lamb? What does Jesus mean when He says, “Do this in remembrance of me” during the Last Supper (Luke 22:19–20)—and how do you respond to that call? In what ways might entitlement or forgetfulness lead you to lose sight of God’s rescue and instead diminish your gratitude? How should examining yourself and pursuing reconciliation (as Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 11:28) shape the way you approach the Lord’s Supper? What difference does it make in your daily life to remember that Jesus is the Lamb who was slain and the risen Lamb who reigns (Revelation 5:6–10)? 3 Things to Take Away from the Message: Jesus is our Passover Lamb — He redeems us from sin through His body given and His blood poured out (Luke 22:19–20; 1 Corinthians 5:7). Remembering shapes our hearts — God gives His people feasts and practices like the Lord’s Supper to form gratitude, humility, and dependence rather than entitlement (Leviticus 23:4–5). Redemption leads to holy living — Because Christ has bought us at great cost, we are called to live reconciled, repentant, and set-apart lives until He returns (1 Corinthians 11:28; Revelation 5:9–10).

In this opening message from the Thanksgiving for Jesus the Messiah series, Robin Kinstead begins with Leviticus 23:1–3 and Mark 2:23–28, exploring God’s design for Sabbath rest. He explains that the Sabbath is not a burden but a gracious gift from God—an invitation to rest, rejoice, and remember His goodness. Robin traces the rhythm of work and rest from creation to Christ, showing that Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath who fulfills its true purpose: to give His people rest from striving and peace with God. He warns against entitlement and self-reliance, reminding us that gratitude is the antidote to both, and encourages believers to see all of life/work, worship, and rest—as acts of thanksgiving. Ultimately, Robin calls the church to trust God enough to stop, to honour Him through balanced rhythms of labour and rest, and to look forward to the eternal rest promised in Christ.   5 Questions to Think About: How does God’s creation rhythm of work and rest shape your own weekly patterns (Genesis 2:2–3; Leviticus 23:3)? What does Jesus mean when He says, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27)? In what ways might entitlement or busyness prevent you from experiencing true Sabbath rest? How can you turn your everyday work—whether paid, unpaid, or study—into worship that honours God? What practices help you rest in Jesus spiritually and look forward to the eternal rest He promises (Hebrews 4:9–11)?   3 Things to Take Away from the Message: Rest is a gift, not a rule — God designed the Sabbath for our good, as a time to rejoice in His provision and presence (Leviticus 23:3; Mark 2:27). Jesus is our true rest — He frees us from striving and gives us peace with God through His finished work on the cross (Matthew 11:28–29; Hebrews 4:9–10). Worship includes work and rest — Both are opportunities to thank and honour God, trusting Him with our time, energy, and priorities (Colossians 3:17).

In this deeply moving sermon from 1 Thessalonians 4:13–5:11 and Isaiah 65:17–25, Shane Dirks concludes the Effective Church series by focusing on the theme: The Effective Church Has Hope in Death and Lives in Light of Eternity. Speaking from personal experience and biblical truth, Shane reflects on the grief of losing his son while proclaiming the certain hope found in Christ’s resurrection. He reminds listeners that for believers, death is not the end—it is “falling asleep in Christ” until the day of reunion when Jesus returns. Drawing from Paul’s words, Shane emphasizes that eternal life takes no intermission, that God will unite and renew all things, and that hope ultimately swallows grief, even if it causes “bouts of indigestion” along the way. Through faith in the risen Jesus, Christians can grieve with confidence, live with expectation, and encourage one another with the hope of eternal life in the new creation.   5 Questions to Think About: How does Paul’s teaching in 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 reshape your understanding of death and grief? What does it mean to you that “eternal life takes no intermission” — that life with God never stops, even in death? How does the vision of the new heavens and new earth in Isaiah 65:17–25 give you comfort and perspective in times of loss? In what ways can you encourage others who grieve to find hope in the resurrection of Jesus? How does living “as children of the light” (1 Thessalonians 5:5–8) help you keep your eyes on eternity rather than fear or despair?   3 Things to Take Away from the Message: Eternal life never ends — Those who trust in Jesus live on in Him; death is only “sleep” before awakening to glory (1 Thessalonians 4:14–15). Hope unites and renews all things — Jesus’ return will bring reunion with loved ones and the restoration of creation (Isaiah 65:17–25; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). Grief and hope coexist — Christians grieve, but not without hope; our sorrow is tempered by the certainty of Christ’s victory and His promise of eternal life (1 Thessalonians 4:13, 5:11).

In this sermon from Proverbs 18:24; 22:24–25; 27:17 and John 15:9–17, Ruth Smith explores the question “What does God have to do with my relationships?” She reminds us that we are created by a relational God/Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and that our need for relationships reflects His image in us. Focusing particularly on friendship, Ruth shows from Scripture that true friendship is marked by love, reliability, honesty, and sacrifice. Jesus calls His followers friends and models the deepest form of love: laying down His life for others (John 15:13–15). Drawing wisdom from Proverbs, Ruth warns about the influence of the people we spend time with and urges us to choose friends who help us grow in faith and godliness. She also highlights the importance of boundaries, mutual care, and making space for new friendships that reflect God’s love and mission in the world. 5 Questions to Think About: How does God’s relational nature (Father, Son, and Spirit) shape your understanding of why relationships matter? What kind of friend are you — one who sharpens others in faith, or one who tends to pull others away (Proverbs 27:17)? How do Jesus’ words in John 15:13–15 challenge you to love your friends more sacrificially? Are your closest friendships helping you become more like Jesus or drawing you further from Him? What practical steps can you take to build new, healthy, and Christ-centred friendships in this season of life?   3 Things to Take Away from the Message: Friendship is rooted in love — True friendship reflects God’s love and calls us to care, sacrifice, and honesty (John 15:12–15). Friends shape who we become — Proverbs teaches that we must choose friends wisely, as their influence can lead us closer to or further from God (Proverbs 22:24–25; 27:17). Boundaries and balance matter — Healthy relationships include mutual support, space for rest, and openness to new friendships that extend God’s love to others.

In this sermon from 1 Thessalonians 4:1–12 and Micah 6:6–8, Langdon Stewart continues the Effective Church series, exploring how followers of Jesus are called to live lives that please God through holiness and brotherly love. He explains that holiness means being set apart for God and continually growing in sanctification — learning self-control and resisting the sexual immorality that damages relationships and dishonours God. Langdon highlights Paul’s countercultural message to the Thessalonian church, urging believers to reject impurity and live distinctly for Christ. He then unpacks Paul’s call to brotherly love (“philadelphia”), showing that the Christian community is a family bound by genuine care and self-giving service. Finally, Langdon challenges listeners to live quietly, work diligently, and avoid relationships or habits that compromise the unity and witness of the church, reminding us that holiness and love are central to an effective and God-pleasing life.   5 Questions to Think About: What does it mean for you personally to live a life that pleases God, as Paul describes in 1 Thessalonians 4:1? How can you pursue holiness in practical ways — especially in areas where culture’s values conflict with God’s standards (1 Thessalonians 4:3–7)? What does “brotherly love” look like in the context of your church family, and how can you grow in showing it (1 Thessalonians 4:9–10)? How might leading a “quiet life” and working diligently demonstrate your faith to outsiders (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12)? In what ways do your relationships, actions, or words reflect God’s holiness and love to others?   3 Things to Take Away from the Message: God’s will is our sanctification — to live holy, set-apart lives that reflect His character (1 Thessalonians 4:3). Love is family-shaped — believers are called to genuine, sacrificial love that builds up the body of Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:9–10). Holiness and love strengthen witness — living with integrity, diligence, and compassion earns the respect of outsiders and honours God (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12).

In this sermon from Psalm 95, Isaiah 29:13–14, and Romans 12:1–2, Ruth Smith explores what it truly means to worship God. She explains that worship is not limited to singing on Sundays—it is a response of the whole life to the greatness and goodness of God. Drawing from Scripture, Ruth reminds us that every person worships something, but only God is worthy of our highest love and devotion. She emphasises that worship is designed to please God, not us, and that while our worship should never depend on feelings, God graciously uses it to transform our hearts. Using Psalm 13 and Colossians 3:16–17, she shows that worship through song helps us remember truth, express gratitude, and join with the global and heavenly church in declaring God’s glory. Ruth encourages believers to see worship as both an act of obedience and a gift that shapes us into people who live for God’s pleasure. 5 Questions to Think About: What do you currently treasure most in your life, and how does that reveal what you truly worship (Isaiah 29:13)? How does understanding that worship is about pleasing God, not ourselves change your approach to Sunday worship? In what ways can you worship God beyond singing—through your work, relationships, and daily choices (Romans 12:1–2)? How has worship, especially through music, helped you internalise truth and experience God’s presence (Colossians 3:16–17)? What might it look like to offer your “best worship” to God even when you don’t feel like it (Psalm 13:5–6)? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Worship is about God, not us — It’s an act of obedience and devotion that pleases Him, regardless of how we feel (Psalm 95:1–7). Worship transforms us — When we fix our eyes on God in praise, He renews our hearts and reshapes our perspective (Romans 12:1–2). Singing is a gift and a witness — Through worship in song, we teach, encourage, and join with the global church in proclaiming God’s greatness (Colossians 3:16–17).

In this sermon from Job 2:1–13 and 1 Thessalonians 2–3, Shane Dirks continues the Effective Church series by exploring what it means to be a church that shows up for one another. He contrasts Paul’s reports on his missionary work and the Thessalonian church, showing their shared alignment in word ministry, demonstrable change, and presence. Shane highlights that the gospel is not just spoken but lived out in faithful relationships—through encouragement, endurance, and showing up in both mission and community. Drawing parallels to Job’s friends, who initially comforted him through their presence, Shane challenges believers to “show up” for others even when words fall short. Using the incarnation of Jesus as the ultimate example of God showing up for humanity, he urges the church to live out this same love through commitment, fellowship, prayer, and perseverance as we await Christ’s return.   5 Questions to Think About: How do Paul’s reports in 1 Thessalonians 2–3 show alignment between mission and church life? What does it mean for you personally to “show up” for others in your church community? How can presence—simply being with someone—communicate the love of Christ more powerfully than words? In what ways does Jesus’ incarnation model God’s commitment to “showing up” for us? How can we, as a church, cultivate deeper habits of encouragement, prayer, and perseverance together?   3 Things to Take Away from the Message: Presence matters — God calls his people not only to proclaim the gospel but to live it through genuine, faithful relationships (1 Thessalonians 2:8). The incarnation shows God’s way — Jesus “showed up” in flesh and blood to dwell among us, setting the pattern for how we love others (John 1:14). An effective church shows up — in mission, in care, and in prayer, strengthening one another as we await the return of Christ (1 Thessalonians 3:12–13).

In this sermon titled What’s God Got to Do with My Mental Health?, Peter Lenehan addresses the complex relationship between faith and mental well-being, drawing from Job 6:14–27 and 2 Corinthians 1:1–11. Acknowledging Australia’s growing mental health crisis, Peter emphasises that while the Bible doesn’t use modern psychological terms, it speaks deeply to human experiences of despair, fear, and anguish. He highlights the church’s call to a “ministry of listening” — to comfort others as God has comforted us (2 Corinthians 1:3–4) — and challenges believers to offer empathy before advice. Peter also encourages those struggling to seek professional help, share their burdens within trusted community, and hold on to the unchanging hope of the gospel. Above all, he reminds us that God’s presence and compassion meet us even in the darkest valleys, inviting us to trust Him in the midst of suffering.   5 Questions to Think About: How do Job’s experiences in Job 6 reflect the importance of compassion and understanding in caring for those who are suffering? What does 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 teach about God’s comfort and our responsibility to comfort others? How can you practice a “ministry of listening” within your church, small group, or friendships? In what ways might your faith help you persevere through times of emotional or mental struggle? What practical steps can you take to care for your mental health — spiritually, relationally, and professionally — while trusting God’s provision?   3 Takeaways from the Message: God is the source of all comfort — He meets us in our pain and equips us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3–4). Listening is a powerful act of love — Christians are called to listen with empathy, not judgment, following Jesus’ example of compassion (James 1:19). Trust God in the darkness — Even in seasons of fear or despair, the gospel remains our unshakable hope and foundation (Psalm 56:3).

In this sermon from Luke 10:25–37, Micah 6:6–8, and James 2:14–26, Peter Lenehan explores the question, “What has God got to do with social justice?” Through the parable of the Good Samaritan, Peter shows that Jesus commands his followers to “go and do likewise” — to act with compassion and mercy toward those in need. Drawing on biblical examples from Leviticus 19, Amos 2, and the early church in Acts 2 and 6, he explains how God’s heart for justice runs throughout Scripture: God desires societies marked by fairness, care for the marginalized, and active compassion. Peter also challenges believers to confront barriers such as apathy, comfort, or confusion about priorities, urging them to reflect God’s character through both faith and action. He concludes by calling the church to step onto the “Jericho Road,” living out a faith that is seen in love and justice for others. 5 Questions to Think About: How does the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) shape your understanding of what it means to “love your neighbor”? What do Micah 6:8 and James 2:14–26 reveal about the connection between faith and action? How can you reflect God’s character of justice and compassion in your daily life and community involvement? What are the “barriers” — such as comfort, busyness, or hopelessness — that keep you from engaging with issues of social justice? What might it look like for you or your church to step out of the “city of peace” and onto the “Jericho Road” to serve others in need? 3 Things to Take Away: God cares deeply about justice — His Word calls His people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). Faith and deeds belong together — Genuine faith is expressed through practical love and compassionate action (James 2:17). Jesus calls us to act — Like the Good Samaritan, believers are to move toward those in need, showing mercy as a reflection of God’s heart (Luke 10:37).

In this sermon from Acts 17:1–9 and 1 Thessalonians 2:1–20, Robin Kinstead continues the Effective Church series by exploring what it means to be a church that perseveres with jealousy for Jesus. Using Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica as an example, Robin highlights how the gospel both transforms lives and provokes opposition. He contrasts Paul’s pure motives—preaching not to please people but to honor God—with the persecution that arose from those jealous for their “little gods.” Robin challenges believers to guard against misplaced jealousies that distract from wholehearted devotion to Christ and to live with the same gospel-driven perseverance Paul modeled. He calls the church to bold faith, generous partnership, and spiritual resilience in an increasingly hostile culture, keeping Jesus at the centre as our true hope, joy, and crown.   5 Questions to Think About: What does it mean to be “jealous for Jesus,” and how is that different from worldly jealousy? How does Paul’s example in 1 Thessalonians 2 challenge your motives in serving or sharing the gospel? What “little gods” or distractions compete for your devotion and need to be surrendered to Christ? How can we support and pray for persecuted Christians who face opposition for following Jesus (Acts 17:5–9)? In what ways can you become a partner, not just a passenger, in God’s mission through your church?   3 Takeaways from the Message: Be jealous for Jesus — devote your whole heart and life to him, guarding against idols that seek to take his place (Exodus 34:14; 1 Thessalonians 2:4). Persevere through opposition — the gospel will provoke resistance, but God’s Spirit empowers endurance and faithfulness (Acts 17:5–9; 1 Thessalonians 2:2). Live and share the gospel with integrity — like Paul, let your motives be pure, your witness be generous, and your joy be found in others growing in Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:7–12, 19–20).

In this sermon, Forever Family, Robin Kinstead concludes the series on Romans by highlighting Paul’s vision of God’s people as one eternal family united in Christ. Drawing from Romans 15–16, he shows how believers—whether Jew or Gentile, male or female, rich or poor—are brought together by the gospel into God’s “forever family.” Robin emphasizes that this unity is not based on culture, background, or preference, but on Jesus’ saving work. As Paul commends fellow workers and calls for unity, prayer, and mutual encouragement, we are reminded of our purpose: to teach one another the gospel for the glory of Jesus and to live as witnesses of God’s eternal household. 5 Questions to Think About: What does it mean for you personally to belong to God’s “forever family”? How can you contribute—spiritually and practically—to strengthening unity in your church community? In what ways can you “teach one another the gospel” in your family, friendships, or small groups? How does Paul’s example of prayer and generosity challenge the way you pray and give today? What obstacles or divisions might distract you from living in harmony with fellow believers? 3 Takeaways from the Message: We are precious people placed in God’s forever family through faith in Jesus. God calls us to teach and encourage one another with the gospel for His glory. Our shared identity in Christ unites us beyond culture, background, or circumstance, giving us hope for eternity together.

In this sermon, Robin Kinstead concludes the Devoted series by exploring what it means to have flourishing families centred on Jesus. Drawing from Genesis 1–2 and Ephesians 5, he reflects on how sin fractures families and communities, but also how Christ restores us into God’s forever family. Robin addresses the challenges of fragmentation in society—such as inequality, polarization, and isolation—and emphasizes repentance, faith in Jesus, and sacrificial love as the foundation for strong family and church life. Using both Scripture and recent events, he calls listeners to live as families that flourish when Christ is at the centre. 5 Questions to Think About: In what ways do you see fragmentation (social, cultural, or spiritual) affecting families today? How does centring your family life on Jesus change the way you relate to one another? What does Ephesians 5 teach us about love, sacrifice, and respect in marriage and relationships? How can the church family step in to support those whose families are broken or grieving? What practical steps can you take this week to put Jesus more clearly at the centre of your home or relationships? 3 Key Takeaways: Families flourish when they are centred on Jesus and shaped by his sacrificial love. Sin leads to fragmentation, but repentance and trust in Christ bring restoration and unity. The church family is called to embody God’s design for flourishing by loving, serving, and supporting one another as part of his forever family.

In this sermon from Deuteronomy 6:1–9, Matthew 18:1–6, and Psalm 139, Ruth Smith explores God’s heart for children and the lessons they teach us about faith. She reminds us that children are known and planned by God, treasured as his gift (Psalm 139:13–16; Psalm 127:3), and entrusted to parents and the wider church to be raised in the knowledge and love of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). Ruth highlights Jesus’ teaching that greatness in the kingdom is found in becoming like little children—marked by humility, trust, honesty, and wonder (Matthew 18:1–5). She challenges us to value children as God does, to invest in their growth, and to let their example shape our own childlike faith before our Heavenly Father. 5 Questions to Think About: How do the Scriptures affirm the value and dignity of children (Psalm 139:13–16; Psalm 127:3)? What does Deuteronomy 6:6–9 teach about the responsibility of parents and the wider church in raising children? How does Jesus’ call to “become like little children” (Matthew 18:3–4) reshape your view of greatness in God’s kingdom? In what ways do children model faith—through trust, authenticity, imitation, or wonder—that you need to relearn? How can you practically invest in the life of a child, even if you are not a parent? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Children are precious to God—they are created, known, and treasured by him (Psalm 139:16). We are called to raise and value children—passing on God’s truth and supporting them as part of his family (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). Childlike faith is essential—humility, trust, and wonder before God reflect the true posture of his children (Matthew 18:3–5).

In this sermon titled Cherished Children, Steve Dinning explores what it means to value children in light of God’s Word. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6:1–9, Matthew 18:1–6, and Matthew 19:13–15, he highlights the biblical call to raise children in the knowledge and love of God, while also learning from their humility and vulnerability. Steve reminds us that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in humility, dependence, and service, and that children are not only the future of the church but also a vital part of it today. He also connects Jesus’ care for children with the biblical mandate to care for the vulnerable—widows, orphans, and foreigners—pointing to foster care and intergenerational support as expressions of God’s love in action. 5 Questions to Think About: What does Jesus mean when he says we must become like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3)? How does the vulnerability and humility of children teach us about our relationship with God? In what ways does Jesus’ welcome of children (Matthew 19:14) challenge the way we view and value children today? How can we, as a church community, better support families, foster carers, and ministries that care for vulnerable children? What role can you play in teaching and modelling faith for the next generation (Deuteronomy 6:6–7)? 3 Things to Take Away: Humility is greatness – Entering and living in God’s kingdom requires humility, like that of a child, depending fully on the Father’s grace. Children matter now – Jesus affirms the dignity of children and calls the church to value and learn from them, not just see them as the future. Faith is lived and shared daily – Parents, grandparents, and the whole church community are called to pass on the story of God through teaching, modeling, and everyday life rhythms.

In this sermon from Mark 15:22–39, Mark 16:1–7, and Ephesians 2:1–10, Ruth Smith unpacks the biggest question anyone can ask: What does God have to do with my life? She explains the reality of sin—that we are all spiritually dead and deserving of God’s judgment—but also the incredible hope of the gospel: that God, in his great love, makes us alive in Christ by grace through faith. Using clear illustrations, Ruth shows how God’s commands are for our good, how Jesus’ death and resurrection provide the only rescue from sin and death, and how salvation is a free gift, not earned by works but received by faith. She calls each person to respond personally, reminding us that Jesus is not a footnote in our story but the center of life itself. 5 Questions to Think About: How does Ephesians 2:1–3 describe our condition apart from Christ, and why is this such a serious problem? What do Ruth’s illustrations about rules and boundaries teach us about why God gives his commands? How does Jesus’ death and resurrection (Mark 15–16) change the way you see your past, present, and future? What does it mean for salvation to be “by grace… not by works” (Ephesians 2:8–9), and how does that shape your view of God? How will you personally respond to the question: What does God have to do with my life? 3 Takeaways from the Message: We are dead in sin without Christ—unable to save ourselves and deserving of judgment (Ephesians 2:1–3). God saves by grace through faith—salvation is his gift, not our achievement (Ephesians 2:8–9). Jesus is life itself—his death and resurrection mean we can have forgiveness, freedom, and eternal hope (Mark 16:6; Ephesians 2:5).

In this sermon from 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10 and Isaiah 12, Peter Lenehan launches a new series on what makes a church effective. He shows how the Thessalonian believers were known everywhere because the Lord’s message rang out from them, not for their own reputation but for God’s glory. An effective church, Peter explains, has its foundation in God (v.1), engages in work produced by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope (v.3), and shares the gospel with deep conviction, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and accompanied by God’s power (vv.4–6, 9–10). Challenging us to move beyond being “benchwarmers,” he calls every believer to find their place of service, guard against burnout, and step out with the gospel so that Christ is made known in our community and beyond. 5 Questions to Think About: How does being “in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 1:1) shape your identity as part of the church? What does it look like in your life for work to flow from faith, labor from love, and endurance from hope (1 Thessalonians 1:3)? Which of the four convictions in verses 9–10 (turning from idols, serving the living God, waiting for Jesus’ return, believing he rescues us from wrath) do you most need to strengthen? How might fear of failure cause us to “quench the Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19), and what does it mean to “test everything” instead? Are you actively going out with the gospel in your daily life, or more often waiting for people to come in? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Foundation matters — an effective church is rooted in God, not just activity or reputation (1 Thessalonians 1:1). Faith, love, and hope drive ministry — true gospel work is sustained not by guilt or obligation but by these eternal motivations (1 Thessalonians 1:3). The gospel must go out — with words, conviction, the Spirit, and power—because only then will it ring out to our community and beyond (1 Thessalonians 1:5–10).

In this sermon from Romans 15:23–29 and 16:1–27, Ruth Smith closes our series in Romans by asking the searching question: Do you have the faith to obey God in all things? Drawing from Paul’s missionary plans, his appeal for generosity, and his personal greetings, Ruth highlights how obedience flows from genuine faith. She points to Paul’s example of raising funds for believers in need, his commendation of faithful co-workers—both men and women like Phoebe, Priscilla, Aquila, and Junia—and his reminder that true faith is not just belief but a life of obedience. Ruth challenges us to consider what it looks like to trust Jesus enough to obey him with our money, our relationships, our speech, our desires, and our daily devotion, reminding us that obedience is our greatest act of worship and the pathway to true freedom in Christ. 5 Questions to Think About: What does Paul’s collection for the poor in Jerusalem (Romans 15:25–28) teach us about generosity and obedience with our finances? How does the example of women like Phoebe, Priscilla, and Junia (Romans 16:1–7) challenge or encourage your view of serving in God’s mission? In what areas of your life is it hardest to trust Jesus enough to obey him? How do Paul’s final words about “the obedience that comes from faith” (Romans 16:26) shape your understanding of the Christian life? Do you see obedience as a burden, or as freedom and worship? How might the Spirit need to reshape your view? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Faith and obedience are inseparable—true trust in Jesus is shown in living for him daily (Romans 1:5; 16:26). Generosity and service are acts of obedience—from financial giving to gospel partnership, God calls us to offer our “first fruits,” not leftovers (Romans 15:25–28). Obedience is worship and freedom—to obey Jesus is not slavery to rules but the joyful path of life as a “slave to righteousness” (Romans 6:18; 16:27).

On Father’s Day, Peter Lenehan preaches from Proverbs 3:1–12 and Matthew 6:25–34, reminding us that being devoted dads—and devoted disciples—begins with knowing what it means to be a child of God. Drawing on Jesus’ command not to worry but to seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, Peter encourages fathers and all believers to trust in God’s provision rather than chasing after temporary things. He challenges dads to place their Christian identity first, then their calling as husbands, and then as fathers, raising children in the training and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). With honesty and encouragement, this sermon points us back to the cross as the ultimate reason we can trust God as our perfect Father who never fails in his care. 5 Questions to Think About: What does Proverbs 3:5–6 teach us about trusting God instead of relying on our own understanding? How does Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:25–34 challenge your daily worries and priorities? In what ways do you find yourself chasing after temporary things rather than seeking God’s kingdom first? For fathers—how can your Christian identity shape your role as a husband and dad (Ephesians 5:25; 6:4)? How does looking to the cross give you confidence that God has truly “got you covered” in every circumstance? 3 Takeaways from the Message: We are children of God first—our security and identity rest in his provision and love (1 John 3:1). Seek first God’s kingdom—when we prioritize his righteousness, he promises to provide what we need (Matthew 6:33). Fatherhood flows from faith—devoted dads (and all believers) lead well when they trust God, live out their Christian identity, and raise children in the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).