In a week marked by tragedy — an antisemitic attack at Bondi and escalating war on the Cambodia-Thailand border, where some of our missionary partners work — the darkness of our world feels overwhelming. Yet Scripture declares that this darkness is nothing new, and Christmas reminds us that a great light has already dawned.

Drawing from Isaiah’s Servant Songs (especially Isaiah 49:1–6), this sermon shows how Jesus is the true Servant Israel could never be: the light not only for God’s people but for the Gentiles, bringing salvation to the ends of the earth. From Simeon’s song in Luke 2 to John’s testimony, the New Testament proclaims that Jesus is the true light that shines in the darkness—and the darkness has not overcome it.

Those who follow Him are called out of darkness into His marvellous light and commissioned to shine as reflections of Him in a broken world. In dark times, Christians are not permitted to hide their light. We are to stand with the grieving, speak truth, love boldly, and live as children of light until the day when Jesus returns and darkness is banished forever (Revelation 22:5).

This Advent, this week, remember: the light has come—and He is coming again.

In this Advent sermon—delivered on the morning of the tragic Bondi Beach attack—we explore the deep human longing for peace in a world filled with conflict, from global wars to personal divisions, even violent terrorist attacks.

Drawing from Isaiah 9's prophecy of the "Prince of Peace," the New Testament fulfilment in Jesus (Luke 2, Colossians 1, Ephesians 2), and the future hope of Revelation 21, it affirms: Jesus brings real peace with God through His cross, partial peace with others now, and perfect peace when He returns.

Amid wars and rumors of wars (as Jesus foretold in Matthew 24), and even unexpected tragedy close to home, this is a timely reminder—peace is found in Christ alone. We experience it in part today through forgiveness and repentance, and we'll know it fully when sin and Satan are defeated forever.

This Advent, let us rest in the peace God offers now, pursue peace with others, and pray for Jesus' return to make all things new.

Dive into the raw cry of Psalm 130 this Advent: from the desperate depths of sin to the radiant hope of God's forgiveness, revealed in the arrival of Jesus at Christmas. Inspired by John Wesley's "strangely warmed heart" moment on May 24, 1738—where a struggling minister finally grasped grace through Christ alone—this sermon unpacks the Psalm's journey of mercy, patient waiting, and communal encouragement.

In this message, discover:

How our "instant world" clashes with the psalmist's eager longing for God (vv. 5-6).
The danger of cheapening grace—and why true forgiveness fuels evangelism.

Whether you're wrestling with guilt, craving deeper faith, or inviting friends to hope, this word will stir your soul. If you're new to Advent or Christianity, stick around—the invitation at the end is for you.

As we get closer to Christmas and the end of the year things can get very busy! Amidst the crazy time, it's easy to lose sight of the season's true meaning. In this Advent sermon, Chris shares a relatable tale of chaotic December prep contrasted with intentional spiritual readiness, inviting us to pause amid the busyness.

Drawing from the ancient practice of Advent (Latin for "coming"), we explore God's unbreakable promises: from Abraham's long-awaited son to Micah's 700 BC prophecy of a ruler born in tiny Bethlehem (Micah 5:2-5). Fast-forward 700 years—Jesus arrives as the promised King, fulfilling every word (Matthew 2:1-8). He's our Ruler (Colossians 1:13), Good Shepherd (John 10:11-16), and Peace-bringer (Ephesians 2:14), reigning now and returning in glory (Revelation 19:11-16).

But who is *your* King? In a world of "mini-kings" chasing autonomy, Jesus calls us to love God and neighbor fully (Matthew 22:37-39). As we wait between His first and second comings, will He return as Savior or Judge? (Hebrews 9:27-28).

Join us for hope-filled reflection: Commit to daily moments this Advent—try a Bible reading plan or quiet prayer—to prepare your heart for the King who keeps every promise.

In one of the Bible's most heart-wrenching stories, God tests Abraham: "Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and sacrifice him on the mountain I will show you." How could a father obey such a command? And what does this ancient tale whisper about the Father's love for us?

Join us as we journey up Mount Moriah with Abraham and Isaac, uncovering staggering faith, a ram in the thicket, and the ultimate provision: Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

If you've ever wrestled with what you truly treasure, this message will challenge and comfort you. Faith goes first; obedience follows. What will you lay on the altar today?

In this heartfelt message, we explore the theme of promise-keeping through the story of Abraham and Sarah in Genesis, contrasting human frailty with God's unwavering faithfulness. Drawing from everyday examples like a Bluey episode where a dad's broken promise leads to disappointment, the sermon highlights how people often fail to keep their word—intentionally or not—but God never does. Recapping God's initial covenant in Genesis 12 (to make Abraham a great nation and bless all peoples through him), the message traces the reaffirmed promises of descendants as numerous as the stars (Gen. 15), a son through Sarah (Gen. 17–18), and their fulfillment in Isaac's miraculous birth at Abraham's age 100 (Gen. 21). Despite Abraham and Sarah's moments of deep faith (credited as righteousness in Gen. 15:6) and grave failures (like the painful scheme with Hagar and Ishmael in Gen. 16), God acts graciously—not because of their merit, but because of His character as a reliable, promise-keeping God.

The joy of Isaac's arrival brings laughter and obedience (naming and circumcising him as commanded), symbolizing the impossible made possible. Yet, sin's consequences surface in the tension between Isaac and Ishmael (Gen. 21:8–13), tarnishing the celebration. God intervenes with grace, affirming Isaac as the line of promise while vowing to bless Ishmael too, extending His care to the marginalized like Hagar. This foreshadows the ultimate promise in Jesus Christ—the "seed" of Abraham (Gal. 3:16)—who fulfills every divine pledge (2 Cor. 1:20), offers atonement for sin (1 John 2:2), and invites all, by faith, to inherit the blessings as Abraham's heirs (Gal. 3:29; Rom. 4:16–17). Just as Sarah's mocking laugh turns to joyful celebration, and Hagar finds provision in the wilderness, we too can trust Jesus for laughter amid waiting, faith like Abraham's, and soothing grace in life's messes.

The sermon closes with a poignant call: Do you trust Jesus?

In this message from Genesis 18-19, explore the dramatic clash of divine judgment and undeserved mercy as God rains fire on Sodom and Gomorrah. From Abraham's bold prayer—bartering God down from 50 to just 10 righteous souls—to Lot's heartbreaking compromise and narrow escape, discover how God's promises to Abraham extend scandalous grace even to the undeserving. Sodom's fall reminds us of sin's cost, but Lot's rescue shouts hope: no one is beyond God's reach. Drawing parallels to our own "plains" of worldly attachment, Chris challenges us to embrace the light of Christ amid our darkness (John 3). If you've ever wondered if grace could truly cover your mess, this sermon will ignite your faith. Perfect for Bible study groups or personal reflection. Subscribe for more on God's unbreakable promises!

In this sermon from Genesis 17-18 we explore the raw tension of waiting on God's promises — as Abraham and Sarah's decades of longing for a child. 24 years since God's call in Genesis 12, the LORD appears to 99-year-old Abram: "Walk before me faithfully and be blameless." Discover how God's covenant renames Abram to Abraham ("father of many"), seals it with circumcision as a sign of grace (echoing our baptism), and extends it to every household member—even Ishmael.

But faith falters: Abraham falls face-down laughing, Sarah snickers from the tent. Their doubt? Our story. Waiting isn't wasted—it's worship that glorifies God when He moves. Tying into Titus 2:11-13, learn to walk as whole-hearted disciples, saying "no" to worldly passions while awaiting Christ's glorious return.

Whether you're in a season of delay—unanswered prayers, broken dreams, or quiet hopes—this sermon will reignite your trust: God is at work in the waiting.

In Genesis 16, Abram and Sarai's impatience leads to a heartbreaking detour—jealousy, cruelty, and a fleeing servant. But in the desert of despair, God meets Hagar as El Roi, the God Who Sees, promising hope amid the pain. Drawing from James 4, Proverbs 19, Psalm 56, and 2 Corinthians 1:20, this sermon explores the wreckage of our own plans versus the faithfulness of God's "Yes" in Christ.

Ever felt like forcing God's promises? Or unseen in your struggle? Discover how to submit your timelines, cry out in fear, and trust His perfect purpose—even when it hurts. What's one plan you're submitting to Him today?

In the arid wilderness of waiting, Abram stands childless and landless, his heart echoing the drought-stricken farmer's desperate hope for rain. Yet God breaks through the silence with a vision of stars beyond counting—promises of descendants, a homeland, and a blessing that ripples to all nations. Drawing from Genesis 15, this sermon explores how Abram's raw honesty meets God's unwavering faithfulness, culminating in a one-sided covenant where the Divine alone walks the path of commitment. Like Abram, we're invited to trade self-reliance for simple trust: faith credited as righteousness, echoing Paul's words in Romans 4 and pointing straight to Jesus, who bore the curse to secure our eternal inheritance. No matter your "dry season"—personal doubts, global chaos, or fears about making it to heaven—discover how God's delays are never denials, and His promises are as sure as the stars. Join us at Lindisfarne Anglican as we step into the land of hope He's showing you.

In this sermon on Genesis 13-14, we see the tension between immediate gratification and long-term faithfulness. Recapping Genesis 12's promise to Abram and his failure in Egypt, the message dives into Abram and Lot's separation: Abram selflessly lets Lot choose first, but Lot impulsively selects the lush Jordan plain toward Sodom—beautiful like Eden or Egypt, yet without seeking God's guidance—leading to future peril, including capture in chapter 14's war. Abram, left with seemingly barren hills, receives God's reaffirming promise of vast land and countless offspring (Gen. 13:14-17), pointing to the spiritual blessings we inherit in Christ (Eph. 1:3). Abram then heroically rescues Lot with 318 men, meets the mysterious priest-king Melchizedek (foreshadowing Jesus as eternal Priest-King in Ps. 110:4 and Heb. 7), tithes humbly, and rejects the king of Sodom's worldly riches to honor God's provision. The core challenge: In big decisions, reject "foolish" worldly wisdom (1 Cor. 3:19) for God's way—yielding true, everlasting blessings like peace, joy, and eternity in Christ over temporary thrills that fade.

Dive into our Children and Young Person Minister Jono Thomas's sermon on Genesis 12, where God's lavish promises to Abraham ignite a life-changing journey. Watch as Abraham steps out in radical trust, leaving everything behind for the unknown. But then, the plot twists: Abraham's fear leads to a failure to trust God's gracious promises.

Jono unpacks how we all stumble like Abraham, yet God's grace never wavers. The real game-changer? Turning to Jesus—the one man who never failed to trust God perfectly.

If you're wrestling with doubt, chasing God's promises, or just need a faith boost, this message will challenge and encourage you. Hit play, grab your Bible, and let's talk Genesis 12!

In this final message of our 1 Timothy series, we dive into Paul's urgent words to Timothy on the dangers of loving money and the freedom of godly contentment. Ever watched Opal Hunters and wondered about the thrill of chasing elusive wealth? Join us as we explore how the early church thrived on generous hearts (like Priscilla & Aquila), why "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil" (1 Tim 6:10), and how to put our hope in God, not uncertain riches—turning our resources into eternal investments that echo in heaven!

Key takeaways:
- Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Tim 6:6-8)
- Be rich in good deeds and generous sharing (1 Tim 6:17-19)
- Flee the trap of greed and fight the good fight of faith (1 Tim 6:11-12)

Perfect for anyone wrestling with finances, generosity, or keeping Jesus first. Watch now and challenge yourself: What's your attitude toward money?

Discover God’s call to care for widows and support church leaders with wisdom and love. In this sermon, we explore biblical teachings from 1 Timothy 5, highlighting the importance of discerning care that empowers rather than enables. Through stories like Gladys, a widow uplifted by a church’s kindness, and practical lessons from Scripture, learn how to reflect God’s heart in your community. Join us for a powerful message on transforming lives through compassionate, thoughtful action. Don’t miss the challenge to take one step this week to make a difference!

In this sermon on 1 Timothy 4:1–16, we explore the spiritual battle against false teaching and how to stand firm in God's truth. Discover how Satan uses deceptive guides to lead people astray, and learn how to trust the Bible as your map and compass for life. With practical insights and a personal story of faith, this message challenges us to grow in godliness, lead by example, and invest in God’s kingdom. Perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and resist the lies of the world. Join us to reflect on how you can labor and strive for Jesus!

In this sermon from 1 Timothy 3, we explore Paul’s timeless instructions to Timothy on raising godly leaders for the church. Just as a ship needs a faithful captain to navigate stormy seas, the church needs leaders who reflect Christ’s character—faithful, self-controlled, hospitable, and grounded in the gospel. Here we learn that leadership isn’t about power or structure but about hearts transformed by the Spirit to equip God’s people. From overseers to deacons, Paul outlines qualities like integrity, teaching ability, and good household management. This message challenges us to pray for our leaders, support them, and consider our own calling to serve. Join us as we discover how godly leadership strengthens the church to shine Christ’s truth in our world.

How do we worship as God’s people? In this sermon on 1 Timothy 2:1–15, we explore Paul’s call to pray for all people, reflecting God’s heart for the world’s salvation. We also tackle the question of men and women’s roles in worship, discerning timeless truths from 1st-century practices through cultural transposition. Learn how we can worship together with faith, love, and holiness, celebrating everyone’s gifts in God’s family. Join us to discover how to live out godly worship today!

Ever feel too weak for God’s call? In this sermon on 1 Timothy 1, we see how God uses Timothy—young, shy, and frail—to guard the gospel’s truth in Ephesus. Paul charges him to confront false teachings, use the law to point to Jesus, and proclaim the gospel that transforms sinners, like Paul, into vessels of God’s power. Through stories of a young leader’s fears and a modern redemption, we learn that God’s grace shines through our weaknesses. Whether you’re leading, struggling, or seeking Jesus, this message inspires you to trust God’s strength, live out the gospel, and praise the eternal King. Discover how you, like Timothy, can be a “jar of clay” filled with God’s glory!

In this talk prior to our 2025 Annual Meeting, we celebrate God’s faithfulness over the past year, marked by our centenary celebrations, the arrival of our new Children and Young Person Minister, Jono, and a 150% increase in giving since 2018 ($65,000 to $165,000). Reflecting on the Rector’s Report, we cast a vision for 2026 and beyond to be a church for Lindisfarne, making disciples of Jesus, especially among families with kids under 12. Through five steps—Shine, Share, Strengthen, Serve, Send—we aim to shine God’s love, share the gospel, strengthen and grow disciples , serve others with our gifts, and send people out into mission and leadership. With a dream of growing our kids’ ministry and giving, we invite you to pray, serve, give generously to what God is doing in this place. We’d also love you to share your ideas in our survey to help shape our ministry over the next few years. Join us in building a church that transforms lives for Jesus! (Scriptures: Matthew 5:16, Matthew 28:18-20, Psalm 78:4-7, Ephesians 4:12, Acts 13:2-3, 2 Corinthians 9:6-11)

In this sermon, we dive into Mark 11:12-25, where Jesus curses a barren fig tree and cleanses the temple, revealing a powerful "acted parable" about God’s judgment on fruitless worship. Far from being a "chill hippie," Jesus confronts corruption, quoting Jeremiah 7:11 to expose the temple’s failure as a house of prayer for all nations. The fig tree’s withering mirrors the temple’s spiritual barrenness, leading to Jesus’ teaching on faith-filled prayer. When He says to move “this mountain” (v. 23), He’s pointing to the temple and any power opposing God’s kingdom. We’re called to pray boldly against injustice—like systemic harm or ideologies causing division—while forgiving as Jesus did (v. 25). The sermon ends with a challenge from Mark 11:27-33, urging us to fear God over worldly concerns (Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 1:7), trusting in His mercy and power to transform lives.