Author: Philip
‘The king, the census and the cross’ (2 Samuel 24:1-25)
In 2 Samuel 24:1-25, there are some things that need sorting out. Who was it that incited David to go and conduct a census? And why was it that God’s anger burned against Israel because he did? And how was it that the due punishment for David’s sin was averted? And what is there in the text that leads us to the cross of Jesus?
January @St John’s
Join us each Sunday as we worship our faithful God during the month of January at 10:30am!
‘What’s in a name?’ (Matthew 1:23, Rev Keith Bell)
Names are vital things, usually given because of the desire of the parents. In Matthew 1:23, we find out that God directed Joseph to name Mary’s baby ‘Jesus’. God must have had a plan and a purpose in providing such a name for His Son. What was it?
‘The ordinary, unusual and extraordinary in the birth of Jesus’ (Luke 2:1-35)
There are those who think that God only works in a big way, through miraculous events. He certainly has in the past and there’s no telling what He will do in the days ahead, but to fill out the whole picture, we need to remember that God also works in the ordinary things of life – birth, census…things like that. Luke 2:1-35 tells us some of these things – even including the extraordinary – by which he has made known to us the path to eternal life – through Jesus, His Son.
Christmas Day Service details
We meet together on Christmas Day at 9:30am. There will be Christmas Carols, the reading and preaching of God’s Word and a special offering for PresAID projects for that year! All welcome.
‘Treasuring Jesus above all’ (Shady Mehanni, Matthew 6:19-24)
The world is full of all kinds of treasures – the earthly kind. When Jesus spoke in the Sermon on the Mount he challenged his disciples in Matthew 6:19-24 to invest in the right kind of treasure and not fall for the trap of earthly treasures.
‘Jesus is the Bread of Life’ (John 6:25-40, Oliver Blythe)
There are so many things and gadgets and possibilities around us that seem to offer the much elusive satisfaction to life. But sadly, none of them really satisfy. In this message on John 6:25-40, Oliver Blythe from PTC looks at the claims Jesus made to provide that ultimate satisfaction in Himself and not in anything created.
‘Meet the king’s mighty men’ (2 Samuel 23:8-39)
There’s no doubt that 2 Samuel 23:8-39 makes an interesting list of names of men. David’s men. Men who supported and strengthened him during his flight from saul and his time as king over Israel and Judah. These men were great in their valour, courage and strength, winning battles and serving their Master no matter what the cost. Christians have a more worthy Master than these men ever did. Jesus, son of David, surpassed his ancestor in every way. Where are those who serve Him with courage and undying love?
What’s happening at St John’s this Christmas?
In a word… PLENTY!
On Friday night December 14th at our church property in Forest Street, we’re having a free BBQ dinner at 6pm with a Jumping Castle for the kids (also free!) followed by our annual ‘Carols by Torchlight’ at 8pm and supper.
Then on Saturday December 15th we’re having a Men’s Breakfast at 8am (combined with the men from Reforming and Eaglehawk Presbyterian churches) in the Church Hall in Forest Street.
Also on Saturday December 15th, a special event for Ladies (again combined with Eaglehawk and Reforming) with a ‘Women’s High Tea’ at 3pm in the Eaglehawk Presbyterian Church Hall.
Like to join us? Let us know! It would be helpful for catering purposes – especially for the High Tea!
On Christmas Day, December 25th, our service begins 9.30am with carols and a Christmas Bible message.