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In this sermon, our Pastor, Ian Forest-Jones, reminded us we live in a cave of darkness, built by our corruption, and therefore cannot have the promises of the Beatitudes without the pain of reorienting ourselves and stepping out into the light, toward the good, pleasing and perfect will of God.
In this sermon, our pastor, Ian Forest-Jones, reminded us that, yes, we can be pure in heart and, yes, we can see God, but not in the way we might hope. Only in the way of the Beatitudes, but that is a narrow gate and a difficult road (Mt 7:4). Are you prepared to walk it?
In this sermon, our pastor, Ian Forest-Jones, reminded us that mercy is often in short supply in our fallen and sinful world, which is why the merciful stand out, shining like stars in the world. The friends of Jesus have received mercy from the Lord, so now exercise mercy toward our brothers and sisters-by-faith and to our neighbours.
In this sermon, our pastor, Ian Forest-Jones, reminded us that those who bow to God’s way of salvation are those who have the greatest enjoyment of the good things of this present life and hope for the future.
The Bible was read by Jake Gruar.
The sermon concluded with the singing of "I Surrender All" and a prayer. These have been included in this recording because they are especially relevant to these reflections on the Word of God.
In this sermon, our pastor, Ian Forest-Jones, reminded us Jesus declared those to be commended are poor in spirit and those who mourn. On the face of it, this seems quite at odds with the values of the world, which regards the joyful and prosperous as blessed. Let us be certain what mourning he is referring to specifically, so that we may understand how a sad face is good for the heart.
The Bible was read by Ian Hudson.
The sermon concluded with the singing of "Be Still My Soul" and a prayer. These have been included in this recording because they are especially relevant to these reflections on the Word of God.
In this sermon, our pastor, Ian Forest-Jones, encouraged us all to remember that to be poor in spirit is the opposite of that haughty, self-assertive, and self-sufficient disposition the world so much admires and praises; it is to realise we have nothing, are nothing, and can do nothing, and have need of all things. Thus, the friends of Jesus avoid arrogance and pursue a sense of one’s own need, relying on the Lord our God for that which is truly important.
The Bible was read by Brad Gordon.
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