After finishing our teaching on our Core Values today we begin a short Series about the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament.  Rev Phil Robinson our Senior Minister brought us teaching from Ezekiel 37      
v 1 - 14 which is the vision Ezekiel had of the Valley of dry bones.  During the message Phil reminded us that we have just moved into a new building and it can be a new start for Whetstone and an opportunity for us as a  Church to move into a new season of the Holy Spirit. At the end the Message we were encouraged to come forward for prayer.  Many did come  forward and received prayer and the anointing of oil.  This is the beginning of messages on the Holy Sprit and after Easter we will be looking at the gifts. 
If you were not able to be at Worship today  and have listened to this challenging message why not ask your Home Group Leader to pray with you the next time the Group meets. If you are listening from around the UK or around the world why not ask your Minister or a trusted Christian friend to pray with you?

WBC Messages - 060322 - Rev Phil Robinson - A New Season Of The Holy Spirit At Springwell

We are pleased you have joined us for the Sunday Morning message. This week is very special as the Sugar Land Baptist Church Choir from Houston, Texas visited us at Springwell.  42 choir members along with their leader Clint Kimmel led worship. One of their ministers, Rev Dr. Taylor Sandlin, Taylor brought us a message on The Great Commission from Matthew 28 v 16 - 20.

Welcome - Simon Clay, our Minister-In-Training.
Song - Let the rock keep silent while we praise - Choir
Song - 10,000 Reasons
Hymn - Abide with me - Choir
Song - Holy for ever
Hymn - Amazing Grace - Choir
Bible Reading - Matthew 28 v 16 - 20 - Read by Simon Clay
Simon prays for Taylor before Message
Message - The Great Commission

                                         The Great Commission - Rev Dr. Taylor Sandlin
Prayer -  Taylor
We’re living in an increasingly secular culture. Yet there is still within every soul a desire to connect with something bigger. Often the most  odd things!
They go looking, yet Jesus’ final words were not about worship but mission. He wants the people of every nation in the world to know about him. and it’s our job to tell them
All people need to know the love of Jesus, even to the ends of the earth.
We know God’s power when we step out of our comfort zone and spread the Good news to our neighbours, whether next door or far away. 
The Great Commission isn’t  about ‘doing church’  and waiting for people to come in. We have to go out, and we are enriched as we do. He is with us always. 
Prayer of thanksgiving - Taylor
Hymn -  Take my life and let it be
Song - He has never failed me - Choir
Clint shares
Song - Hymn of Heaven
Prayer - Simon Clay
Thanks to our visitors
A Blessing - Simon Clay

If you would like to see and hear Sugar Land Baptist Church Choir there is a live video on the Church Facebook page which you can access from the Church Website

WBC Messages - 020723 - Rev Dr. Taylor Sandlin - The Great Commission

We are pleased you are joining us at Springwell for another Message about our Motto for the coming year. Philippians 3 v 7 - 8
“But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ”   (NIV). 
Our Senior Minister Rev Phil Robinson brings us the teaching. 

Welcome
Bible Reading - Philippians 3 v 7 - 11  - Read by Beth
Prayer before Message - Phil
Gaining Christ
Owning property gives us a sense of false security - it will pass! Don’t trust in the tangible, focus on the giver not the gift. An asset can become a liability, as Paul explains in this passage. What happens to us in this world is nothing compared with the riches of being with Christ.
1. Rejection for Christ  v 7 - 8
Jesus said “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?” 
Paul explains that his conversion was the tipping point when he re-evaluated his whole life. He didn’t look at anything he’d done the same way again.
Jesus is a jealous lover, he doesn’t want you for a few hours on a Sunday, but in every way at every time. 
We come to Him with empty hands and a broken heart. When Paul talks of ‘Knowing God’ it’s not as an acquaintance but at a deep and intimate level. The relationship of a father and son.
2. Revelation of Christ v 8a - 9 
What does ‘Found in Christ’ mean? It’s surprising, as when Paul was pursuing Christians and suddenly became one.
Archaeologists sometime unexpectedly discover hidden treasure, this is the feeling Paul says he has about discovering Christ
3. Participation with Christ is not in what we do, but in knowing Him. We never come to the end of discovering His power in our lives and circumstances. The power  of the Resurrection is available in our lives. We also understand the rejection and suffering that being a Christian can cause, that it isn’t directed at us  but against Him. 
Paul would one day partake in the resurrection of Christ. He wasn’t sure of the route, but he WAS sure that ‘somehow’ he would get there. 
Life can be happy, sad, depressing. A Christian can be grateful for God’s blessings in good times, and rest securely in His love in bad times. Life is not random, Christ is our surpassing treasure. 
Opportunity for response
Songs - Jesus at the centre -  All to Jesus I surrender
Prayer - Phil

Many folk responded to the call to salvation and others later raised their hands as a sign of commitment. If you respond after listening to this message please let us know at office@whetstonebaptist.uk or why not speak to your Home Group leader or a trusted Christian friend who would love to encourage you in your walk with Jesus.
 
     Questions  January 14 2024 - Philippians 3:7-11 - Rev Phil Robinson
Textual questions
1. Does Jesus talk about gain and loss in His ministry and if so where? (v7-8).
2. The verb 'consider' in verse 8 is in the perfect tense: an action in the past with present consequences. To what is Paul referring in the light of the tense of this verb?
3. If the word 'loss' in verse 7 and 8 means 'reject with disgust' what does this teach us about our view of spiritual achievements?
4. What does it mean to 'gain Christ' in verse 8?
5. How does Paul define the righteousness that proceeds from his relationship with Christ in verse 9?
6. What is the relationship between Christ's resurrection and our spiritual journey? (v10)
7. How does a believer share in Christ's sufferings? (v10).
8. Why does Paul sound indefinite about the route he will take towards the resurrection of the dead in verse 11?
Discussion questions
1. How do we make sure that knowing Christ is more important than merely serving Him?
2. Is the contemporary church more concerned about experiencing Christ's resurrection rather than His sufferings and if so why?

WBC Messages - 140124 - Rev Phil Robinson - Gaining Christ

At the end of the Service on Sunday Morning 21st January 2024 our Senior Minister led us in  a Communion Service. This followed on from when Phil taught us about Journeying  hich  Christ a challenging message for all of us. Please use this precious communion for you or your Home Group.

WBC Messages - 210124 - Rev Phil  Robinson - Communion After Journeying With Christ

During  this Sunday Morning Service  we sang the Breathe (This is the air I breathe) after which Simon was prompted to pray a beautiful prayer calling on the Lord to intervene in the conflicts around the world.

WBC Messages - 280124 - Simon -  Join Us As We Pray For Peace

Welcome to the Sunday Morning message from Springwell,  home of Whetstone Baptist Church. Today our Senior Minister brings us a message from Exodus 13 v 17 to 14 v 31.
Once we again we had a challenging word through tongues and interpretation and a     number responded for prayer.

Welcome,   Prayer - James,  Song - What a Beautiful Name,  Tongues and Interpretation
Song - How great thou art    Bible Reading - Exodus  13 v 17 - 14- 31
Crossing the Sea
Prayer before Message - Phil
We moved into this building in December 2021, stepping out in faith. It has parallells with crossing the Red sea, the beginning of a journey of God’s provision for the future.
1. Directed Guidance 
(a) Guidance avoiding danger v 17- 18
The people needed to look to God for guidance. The obvious, quickest, route was too     dangerous. 
(b) Guidance affirming honour v 19
Genesis contains Joseph’s instructions to take him home
(c) Guidance advising journey v 20 - 22
The pillar of cloud/fire was better than any satnav!
2. Hardened Resistance  14 v 1 - 9
Pharaoh had hardened his heart many times, now God uses that for his own purposes.
The Israelites thought they were safe, but unforeseen circumstances terrified them. They looked at the danger, not at God.
3. Alleged Incompetence  v 10 -12
The reaction to danger was to blame Moses, a human reaction in times of challenge.
4. Affirmed Confidence  v 13 -14
Moses wasn’t fazed, he looked  to God and directed the people to do the same, instead of looking  at the Egyptians. i.e. don’t look at the problem, look to God for the solution.
5. Demonstrated Deliverance  v 15 - 31 
The solution was miraculous, saving the Israelites while destroying the Egyptians. The    result was that the people recognised that God was in control.

Today, we recognise that God’s purposes will be fulfilled  in a timely manner. We walk in faith and love one another, trusting in God to do the rest.  
Song - Way maker
Closing prayer - Phil
Questions - Crossing the sea (Exodus 13 :17 to chapter 14: 31)
Why did the Israelites choose a more complicated route? 13: v17 -22.
What is the significance of taking Joseph's bones with them? 13:19.
What is the function of the pillar of cloud/ fire? 13: 20-22, 14:19-20, v24.
What does it mean for God to harden Pharaoh's heart? 14:4, 8.
What motivates Pharaoh to retrieve the Israelites? 14:5-9.
How do the Israelites respond to the arrival of the Egyptians? 14:10-12.
What is the meaning of Moses drawing attention to the Egyptian Army in verse 13?
What is God's purpose in the crossing of the sea? 14:15-18.
What do we learn from verses 21-22 regarding the actual circumstances of the 
crossing?
What is the symbolic meaning of the reference to the Egyptian bodies on the shore? v 30.
Discussion question.
 Have you seen key moments in church life become so iconic that they become disconnected with the journey God is leading that community on?

WBC Messages - 250224 - Rev Phil Robinson - Crossing The Sea - Exodus 13 V 17 - 14 V 31

Welcome to our Sunday Morning Message. Our Minister-In-Training Simon Clay brings us teaching from the Book of Joshua. 

Welcome
Song - Strength will rise
Prayers of Intercession
Worship - Waiting here for You - This is our God
Prayer - Rachel
Song - Psalm 23 - The Lord’s my Shepherd
Simon - Stepping into a time of transition
Song - Psalm 23 - The Lord’s my Shepherd (cont’d)
Song - Our God reigns
Prayer - Simon
Bible Reading - Joshua 1 v 1 - 18 Read by Helen
Message
Moving forward in time of change

v 1 Imagine taking over from Moses! 
He was a brilliant leader, God’s gift to the nation. Now Joshua had to take over from this 
legendary man. But there is only one who is fully capable, the perfect leader, and that is God. Joshua was not following Moses, but stepping into God’s plan instead of him.
We too take over from Jesus since He left. Not as the leader, but to be followers of God’s plan as his hands and feet, in his power and to his glory
v 2 & 3 God has been and is shaping you for the task ahead. Joshua has been mentioned before, we can see his development.
Amalekites- God is sovereign
Mount Sinai - God is holy
Golden Calf - God is merciful
Tent of Meeting - God is wise
Prophecy in the camp - God is limitless
Spying in Canaan  - God is deliverer
Joshua’s character was being formed by God, who looks at the heart.
v 4 An uncomfortable Echo from the Past
The news is full of what is happening in Israel today. God had promised the land to them as a means of blessing to the surrounding nations. But this ended when a girl in Bethlehem gave birth to the Saviour of the World, who went to the cross to pay for its sins, and lives eternally. 
God no longer focuses on just Israel, He is the light of the whole world.
v 5 -15   A road map to discipleship. 
Joshua followed Moses as leader, he had an instruction manual which repeatedly told him to be bold and courageous, although he didn’t feel like it. How? 
v  5 - 6 Trust in God’s promises 
v  7       Begin with obedience
v  8       Be rooted in God’s Word
v  15     Orthodoxy is not abstract - get on and do it!
v  12  onwards is Joshua doing just that, he gets on and does it in God’s strength

We should be like this, soak ourselves in God’s word and then live it.
v 16 -18  Fully Restored
We don’t trust in our own abilities, however confident we are we make a mess of it. The people changed their mind about going back to Egypt, they promised to follow Joshua as long as he was led by God, the nation was restored 500 yrs after being enslaved by Egypt.
One day Jesus will return and completely restore his creation.
Until then we should be strong and very courageous in His strength and Spirit. 

Obedience looks different to different people. It may start with baptism, openly declaring faith in Him
Simon - prayer for obedience and courage 
Song  - In Christ Alone
od'?

WBC Messages - 030324 - Simon Clay - Moving Forward In Times Of Transition

At our Mothers Day Service today at Springwell our Associate Minister Rev Nick Swanson brought a Prayer for all mother's wherever they are. May you be blessed as you listen to this prayer.

WBC Messages - 100324 - Rev Nick Swanson - A Prayer For Mothers On Mother's Day

We are pleased you have joined us for the Morning Message on the Sunday in the UK when we celebrate our mothers. Our Senior Minister brought us a Message from the book of Ruth.

Welcome
Song - Guardian
Prayer for Mothers on Mother’s Day
Songs -  The power of your love/ Worthy is the Lamb
Bible Reading - Ruth 1 v 1 - 22  Read by Lin Norman and Margaret Hanning

A Mother’s Love

So often, within our culture, women are seen as trophies at surface value only. 
Today we honour women, based on the beautiful story in Ruth.
1.  An Unexpected Tragedy v 1 - 5
When the Israelites settled in Canaan they were led by Judges, not Kings.  The famine led to people leaving, expecting a better life, but it was a disaster for Naomi, as a widow was dependent on her husband or sons, and she had neither. 
There were now three bereaved unsupported women.  
2. An Intended Journey v 6 - 14
The famine lifted, so Naomi decided to go home. She intended to go alone, sending her daughters-in-law back to their families, giving them her blessing. They needed husbands to support them, and she was more concerned with their welfare than her own - the sign 
 of good motherhood. 
3. A Declared Loyalty v 15 - 18
Orpah reluctantly decides to take Naomi’s advice, but Ruth makes the most beautiful pledge of loyalty. These words are sometimes used in the marriage ceremony, signifying total commitment to another.
Ruth was of a different culture, nationality, ethnicity, religion.  She would be a total stranger in Israel. But the bond between them was as strong as any biological one. 
4. An Accepted Injury v 19 - 22
Naomi had been through the mill and was now hardly recognisable. ‘Naomi’ means pleasant, but she wanted a different name due to her experiences. She realised  that God had caused her troubles but she still trusted him.  They arrived as the barley harvest was starting, leading to Ruth marrying Boaz and the family being provided for. Their son became an ancestor of Jesus, a perfect example of God’s loving planning.

Questions on Ruth 1: 1-2
 1. Is the intermarriage with Moabite women for the two sons irregular for an Israelite           	family? (v4).
 2. What are the circumstances which cause Naomi to return to Bethlehem? (v1-6).
 3. What is a significance of Naomi invoking the Lord's 'kindness' on Orpah and Ruth? (v8).
 4. What is Naomi's further reasoning against Orpah and Ruth's desire to return with her to 	Bethlehem? (v11-12).
 5. Why does Naomi see herself as more embittered than Orpah and Ruth? (v13).
 6. Why do the citizens of Bethlehem struggle to recognize Naomi? (v19)
 7. Why does Naomi talk about God as 'Shaddai' in verse 20?
 8. What is implied in the closing comment of verse 22?
 Discussion questions.
 1. In the UK most churches are majoritivly female- why is this?
2 What aspects of Naomi's actions indicate commendable motherhood?

WBC Messages - 100324 - Rev Phil Robinson - A Mother's Love

We are pleased you have joined us for the Sunday Morning Message on the the first of our Gift Days at Springwell. One of our members, Rev Dr. Derek Tidball, brings us the message on the grace of giving. After the message Derek leads us in Communion and prays for those in need from around the world. Derek is a well known Bible Teacher, author and former Bible College Principal. 

Welcome
Call to Worship
Bible Readings - 2 Corinthians 8 v 1 - 12 and 9 v 6 - 15  Read by Rev Nick Swanson

The Grace Of Giving

Prayer before Message - Derek 
When it comes to money, Christians don’t function on a normal basis. The world does charity auctions, collections, sponsorship etc. 
The Bible is realistic when it come to money, right from Genesis to Revelation. We operate on a different basis for our finances. 
2 Corinthians chapters 8 and 9 explain the vision of a Christian community filled with grace, including the grace of giving. 

(1) An Example To Inspire 8 v 1 - 7
Generosity 
Proportionality
Intentionality
Solidarity
Spirituality 

(2) A Saviour To Imitate  8 v 9
Seen in Christ
Reproduced in us
We give because Christ gave himself for us, and we are thankful

(3) A Practice To Adopt   9 v 6 - 15
Generous and not stingy
Intentional not impulsive
Cheerful not reluctant
Faith-filled not faithless
Altruistic not selfish

If we truly understand what Christ has done for us it will permeate every aspect of our lives, including our giving
‘see that you also excel in the grace of giving’
Communion - Derek
Prayer for the world. 
Song - Thank you for the cross (Worthy is the Lamb)
Closing prayer - Derek

Discussion starters for you
1. Briefly describe the circumstances in which the churches of Macedonia (8:1-7), the church in Jerusalem (8:13-15) and Corinth (8:14) found themselves. 
You might like to search out other scriptures, such as in the Acts,  which tell us more about the situation of these churches, Jerusalem in particular.

Which church fits WBC's circumstances the best?

2. What do these chapters teach as the key motivation for Christians to give? How does that differ from normal charity fundraising?

3. What are the key principles of Christian giving as mentioned here that you would identify for members of Whetstone Baptist church?

4. How does this relate to the giving of a tithe and firstfruits? (That are almost 30 references to tithes in the OT. See Lev 27:30, 32; Deut 12:6; 26:1-4; Mal 3:10.)

5. What might 8:11-12 be saying to WBC at the present time?

6. Share experiences of God's provision when you have sacrificially given to him (9:8-11)?

7. How does our giving result in the 'overflowing of many expressions of thanks to God' and his praise (9:12-13).

WBC Messages - 170324 - Rev Dr. Derek Tidball - The Grace Of Giving (including Communion)

We are pleased you have joined us on Palm Sunday to listen to the Morning Message. Our Senior Minister Rev Phil Robinson brings us teaching at the start of Holy Week.

Welcome
Hosanna Shout
Opening Prayer - Andrew Ling
Prayer - Phil
Prayer - Terry
Song - The Servant King (2020)
Intro to Bible Reading
Bible Reading - Luke 19 v 28 - 40 Read by Beth Cox
Prayer before Message
Proclaim the Messiah

Palm Sunday marks the start of the most important week in the Christian calendar. The King arrives, but not as you would expect, all the trappings of royalty were missing.  Jesus brought freedom, opening hearts to worship God. There were 3 steps to welcoming the new king.
(1) Spontaneous Proclamation v 37 - 40
It was Passover, so Jerusalem was full of visitors. Many had seen Jesus’ miracles, and praised him for them.  Spontaneous praise broke out, a beautiful thing, as they recognised the significance of his riding on a colt. 
(2) Messianic Proclamation v 38
What the crowd said was loaded. Psalm 118 v 26 
a. Inbreaking kingly rule
Zech. 9 v 9 The Chosen One has come, who never underdelivers or overpromises.
b. Inbreaking saving life
Luke 2 v 14 - the angels announced this at Jesus’ birth. The establishment of reconciliation between God and man.  Peace is a heavenly quality, the expectation is that it will spread to earth.  Salvation was around the corner. Not by force but through love.
(3) Compulsive Proclamation v 39 -40
The Pharisees were horrified by the spontaneity, it didn’t fit in with their ideas. So they
told Jesus to stop them but (Ch 2 v 11)  he implied that it’s wrong not to praise. If they didn’t do it, it would happen another way.  It’s not just music, it’s the way we live our lives as an act of worship that uses every aspect of our being.
Thanks - Terry
Benediction

Textual Questions on Luke 19 v37-40.
     1. What is the reason for the joyful outburst of praise in v 37?
     2. Who are those rejoicing and what does this indicate?
     3. What is the relevance of Zechariah 9:9 to Jesus's arrival?
     4. What is the relationship between the first statement in v38         and Psalm 118:26?
     5. What other New Testament passages are inferred by the second statement in v38? 
     6. Why do they cry 'peace in heaven'?
     7. Why did the Pharisees ask Jesus to rebuke His disciples?(v39).
     8. How does Habakkuk 2: 11 relate to verse 40? 

Discussion questions.
Why do some churches have services mainly focused on worship and others focused on teaching and prayer?
     2.  What is the purpose of communal worship for the Christian Community

WBC Messages - 240324 - Rev Phil Robinson - Proclaim The Messiah - Luke 19 V 28 - 40

We are pleased you have joined us on Easter Day for the Morning Service. It was a very special day; as well as a Dedication we also had a Baptism.  Our Senior Minister Rev Phil Robinson brought us the Easter message from Revelation 1 v 9 - 20. Almost 300 gathered for worship and as you will hear it was a time of rejoicing. 

Welcome 
Songs - Happy Day - He Is Risen
The tomb is empty..... - Rachel
Song - Worthy Is The  Lamb
Song - He Is Lord  led by Phil
Prayer - Phil
Song - Forever
Bible Reading - Revelation 1 v 9 - 20  Read by Jon King
Prayer before the Message - Phil

The Glory of the Risen Christ
We have a mental image of Jesus, often a bearded white man with wavy hair, influenced by art and media.  But Isaiah tells us he had nothing in his appearance that was attractive. 
We need to concentrate on his substance not his looks.
This passage in Revelation is the only place in the Bible where Jesus is described.
(1) A Commanding Declaration v 9 - 11
John, Jesus’s best friend, had this vision on the Isle of Patmos where he was in a penal colony because he was a church leader. He was doing church on his own one Sunday when the Spirit fell upon him, giving him the job of writing to seven churches to tell them what Jesus thought about them.
(2)  A Dazzling Revelation v 12 -16
Son of man = human being, or The Son of man which Jesus described himself as on earth. White hair means wisdom, burning eyes and fiery feet are used of angels in the Old Testament (This is a Jewish vision)
Jesus is wise, kind, thoughtful, direct, challenging, not the cuddly figure many have made up.
(3) An Overwhelming Affirmation v 17 - 20
The vision was so scary that John blacked out. But the first thing Jesus said was ‘Don’t be afraid’, as he had said many times on earth.  With Jesus there is always power and hope in the darkest situation. Embrace the positive things that God has blessed you with. 
(Invitation to stand if you identify with this)  
Prayer for those who stood - Phil
Song -  Living Hope
Jesus this is your Day - Rachel
Song - Thine be the glory

Questions on Revelation 1 v 9 - 20.
 Textual questions 
Why was John on the 'island of Patmos'? (v9)
What was John's relationship with the seven churches? (v11)
Why is Jesus described as 'a son of man' in v13? (Mark 8:31, Daniel 7:13)
What is the significance of Jesus's white hair referred to in v14? (Daniel 7:9)
Why is His voice described as sounding like 'rushing waters' in v15? (Daniel 10:6)
What is the significance of Christ's right hand in verses 16 and 17?
Why does Christ describe himself as 'the first and the last'? (v17)
Who are the 'angels' of the seven churches? (v20)
                                                          
 Discussion questions.
 1. Why do so many images of Christ in paintings and films portray him as handsome?
 2. What aspects of this vision of the risen Christ in majesty do you personally find unsettling?

Listen to Sian's Testimony and Baptism and Dedication of Nariah here on Soundcloud

WBC Messages - 310324 - Rev Phil Robinson - Easter Day - The Glory Of The Risen Christ

On Easter Morning we have an amazing Testimony from Sian Walls who was baptised. Listen to how when she called out to God and he answered in an unexpected way.
Baptised by Phil Robinson assisted by Bola Babajibe
Listen to the Dedication and Easter Morning Service here on Soundcloud

WBC Messages - 310324 - Sian Walls - Sian's Testimony And Baptism

At our Easter Morning Service Alex and Peggy Goulding brought Nariah for Dedication. 
Listen to Sian's Walls Testimony and Baptism and the Easter Morning Service  here on Soundcloud

WBC Messages - 310324 - Rev Phil Robinson - Dedication Of Nariah Goulding

We are pleased you have joined us for the Morning Service Message from Springwell. Our preacher today is Aaron Bent, whom you may know as he occasionally gives us a poem. Aaron is training at Bristol Baptist Bible College while he seeks to know the Lord’s will on what his calling is. 

Welcome 
Prayer
Poem - Janet Shore  ‘A dead man’
Bible Readings - Luke 3 v 21- 23 & Luke 4 v 1 - 13 

The Jordans We Pass Through
(1) Jordan - the River  3 v 21 - 23 
When Jordan is mentioned, something important is about to happen. 
Joshua 3.  The Israelites are under the leadership of Joshua, they now crossed the Jordan into the promised land. The priests went first, the river dried up as they stepped in.
2 Kings 5.  Naaman, a great commander but a leper. Elisha told him to be clean by immersing himself in the Jordan.  He didn’t want to, but when he did, his uncleanness was healed.
But why should Jesus, the perfect one, need to be baptised? It has metaphorical value, a symbol describing that Jesus submitted to baptism for the forgiveness of sins (although he had none) as a sign of why he came. His obedience led to God affirming his pleasure. 
(2) Jordan - The Person
Aaron described how he once led a very risky and miserable life. He made a good friend  called Jordan who was very good at helping Aaron to do things he shouldn’t. Through this, God began to show Aaron the person he should be, and set him on the right path. 
(3) Jordan - the Wilderness
Jesus entered the wilderness straight after baptism, a metaphorical Jordan where he was immersed in temptation. The Son of God =  Anointed One = Messiah, (see Psalm 2).
Satan is committing an act of war against the King. Whoever wins will be the most powerful;  Satan tries to get Jesus to prove his identity, which would show unfaithfulness. 
God had said it, therefore no more proof is required. Satan tries this on us today, stirring up fear and division - any ploy to get us to distrust God’s promises.  May our faith not fail. Amen
Phil - the enemy tries to disturb us, but if we are determined to go forward and not yield to pressure, please stand. 
Phil then prayed for those who stood.
Phil  - Prayer for Springwell. 
Grace

WBC Messages - 070424 - Aaron Bent - The Jordans We Pass Through

We are pleased you have joined us for the Morning Service Message from Springwell. Our Associate Minister Rev Nick Swanson brings us a Message ‘The Mission of Jesus’  from Luke 4 v 14 - 30.

Welcome 
Opening Prayer
Bible Reading - Please read or open your Bible at Luke 4 v 14 - 30

The Mission of Jesus
Jesus accepted his mission, otherwise we wouldn’t be here. He had resisted the devil in the wilderness, now he came home to his childhood village as a hero. Now, as usual, he went to the synagogue, and was invited to read the scriptures. He then gave the shortest sermon ever - just one sentence.
Then the people realised that Jesus meant that he was the one Isaiah spoke about. 
Luke quotes the passage (from Isaiah 61) but stops short when it speaks of vengeance.
1. Freedom
Jesus came to set the poor free, those who thought they had no standing; the spiritually poor who need to hear that God loves them; the captives and downtrodden, held by Satan and who need setting free; also those suffering from anxiety and depression, whose lives are in a mess. Today the counselling services are overwhelmed by them. Also the ill and those who need healing from God. Those who don’t know what Jesus can do because they’ve never been told. They never imagined that God takes an interest in them. Freedom for the prisoners riddled with guilt  for what they have done.
Jesus’ mission is now ours, we are his hands and feet in this world today. 
The Nazareth people’s  reaction was negative because their view of God was far too small.
2. Freedom For All
They wanted to keep Jesus for themselves, but he made it clear that he had come for all people, even beyond Israel’s borders. They were so furious that they tried to kill him as a false prophet.
But it wasn’t his time yet, not for another three years, so he miraculously escaped from them. 
We meet on a Sunday to worship God and gain strength to minister for the rest of the week to those who need freedom.
Prayer after the message
Song
Prayer 
Grace

Questions

Q 1. What first comes into your mind when you hear the word ‘mission’?

Read Luke 4 v 14-30 

Q 2. Jesus returns from being tempted by the devil. What do you think has been clarified for Jesus by the temptations? 

Q 3. In Nazareth’s synagogue, Jesus chooses to read the words of Isaiah 61 v 1-2. Why? (v 18-19).

Q 4. Notice that Jesus doesn’t mention God’s Day of Vengeance (Isaiah 61 v 2) and that the word ‘release’ or ‘set free’ is stressed. Why do you think this is?  

Q 5. Why does Jesus say He is full of the Holy Spirit? (v 18)

Q 6. Who are the poor, the blind, the captives and the oppressed? Think of the people you know and meet.

Q 7. Jesus says that Isaiah’s prophecy has come true. Why are the people of Nazareth so pleased to hear this? (v 21-22)

Q 8. Why does Jesus challenge their perception? What is the point He is making through the 2 stories about Elijah and Elisha? (v 23-27)

Q 9. Notice the violent reaction of the synagogue goers in Nazareth. What is it that they can’t they accept? (v 28-29)

Q 10. Now think about how this applies to you and to the church. What has this to say about why we are here? How much are we like Jesus or the Nazareth synagogue goers?

Pray together for the Holy Spirit to anoint you and empower you for Jesus’ ongoing mission.

WBC Messages - 140424 - Rev Nick Swanson - The Mission Of Jesus - Luke 4 v 14 - 30

Welcome to the Sunday Morning Message from Springwell.
Our Senior Minister Rev Phil Robinson brings us a very challenging message from Matthew 9 v 9- 17. 

Welcome
Call to Worship
Opening Prayer
Prophecy
Bible Reading - Matthew 9 v 9 - 17 Read by Carolyn Hames
Prayer before Message

                                 Church Life v Kingdom Life
Any new movement leads to division. People break away from the old order. The Western church today faces this on two fronts. 
a. The Issue of Sustainability 
Churches have closed because the number of Christians has shrunk. As they age and die, the congregations disappear.
b. The Issue Of Cultural Accessibility. 
Churches are reluctant to change, and if they do they’re still out of date.  Society moves on at an accelerating pace, churches must keep their focus while adapting to change.
1. A Community Of Sovereign Vitality v 9 - 15
Jesus said ‘I will build my church’ This is the Kingdom of God, not just  buildings. If a church is not displaying the power of God it will be divided and close. 
Matthew worked for the Roman authorities and was reviled by Jews. But Jesus came to the socially discredited. 
(a) Kingdom Revelry  v 14
The ‘sinners’ were those who didn’t keep strict Jewish laws. Hosea 6 v 6 - God desires mercy, not sacrifice. God isn’t religious! He’s bothered about the life, not the stuff. It’s a matter of priorities. 
A church that doesn’t  love has lost the plot. 1 Corinthians 13. Jesus came for the broken, He’s all they need. 
Matthew’s party, attended by Jesus, offended the Pharisees because they thought everybody should be like them.
Christian life, Kingdom life, should be a vibrant, joyful celebration.  People are invited to it for their own value, not because they fit our mould.
(b) Kingdom Intimacy. v 15
The church often runs to a schedule, but does it lead to meeting God?  Kingdom life is about event, not schedule. 
2. A Community Of Structural Vitality  v 16 
Unshrunk cloth isn’t ready for use, patching it up doesn’t work. Kingdom life can’t be stuck on to Jewish customs, it needs something new.
3 A Community of Spiritual Vitality v 17
New wine in old skins doesn’t just rip, it bursts. The new wine is the Holy Spirit of God, wanting free rein to transform the most needy in any generation. Many churches just get in the way, and the Holy Spirit bypasses them and bursts out somewhere else. 
If we want to be a vibrant church, welcoming all, it will be a challenge. But God is with us, leading us on. 
Prayer at end of Message - Phil
Prayer for our future - Phil

Questions on Matthew 9: 9-17.
 Textual questions.
1. What was the status of tax collectors, such as Matthew, in Israel at this time? (v9).
2. What does Jesus mean in His statement recorded in v12?
3. Why does Jesus quote Hosea 6:6 in v13?
4  What is the reasoning of Jesus why His disciples do not fast?(v14-15).
5  Why does Jesus describe Himself as the 'bridegroom' in v15?
6  What is 'unshrunk cloth' in v16?
7. What is the issue with 'old wineskins'?  (v17)
8. What is the result of the actions described in v16 and v17?

Discussion questions.
 1.Why is it that Jesus is comfortable to socialise with people of questionable morality in their own context whilst many Christians are not?
2 In what way is Jesus' teaching about the restrictive nature of contemporary Judaism in v16-17 relevant for our Churches' challenge to be culturally accessible?

WBC Messages - 170424 - Rev Phil Robinson - Church Life V Kingdom Life

We welcome you to our Sunday Morning Message at Springwell. Our Senior Minister Rev Phil Robinson brings us teaching from Luke 9 v 51 - 62.

Welcome
Prayer - Phil
Bible Reading - Luke 9 v 51 - 62 - Read by Christina Seal
Prayer before the Message
A Focused Journey
In v51 Jesus commits himself to an arduous and challenging journey, a trip to Jerusalem. Luke said he ‘set his face’ to go, knowing that it wouldn’t be easy.
1. The Choice Of Destination v 51 - 56
Taken up to Heaven  - the culmination of his whole life, includes the cross, resurrection and ascension. Up to now the focus has been on Galilee, now it shifts to Jerusalem.
When you enlist as a disciple, do you know what you are signing up for?
Jesus sent the disciples on ahead into a Samaritan village (Jews thought there were no good Samaritans, which is why the story of the Good Samaritan was so radical)  When the village rejected them, the hotheads (James and John)  wanted to be like Elijah and punish them.  But Jesus told them this wasn’t the way. He had set his face to Jerusalem  and the cross and suffering.
(a) The Challenge Of Practical Discomfort v 57 - 58
Jesus was of no fixed abode with not even as much comfort as wild animals or birds.
We spend all our lives trying to find security, avoiding vulnerability. Jesus says all of that has to be held in tension, we don’t know what plans Jesus has for our lives.
(b) The Challenge Of Cultural Distinctiveness. v 59 - 60   
Burial was very important in Jewish culture, but Jesus said the Kingdom of God is more   important than religious observances  and duty to the family. 
(c) The Challenge of Relational Detachment v 61 - 62
This person wanted his family to give their permission to follow Jesus. You can’t walk in a straight line if you keep looking back. Remember our motto verse - everything  else is  garbage compared with following Jesus. 
Being a real disciple requires radical faith, putting Jesus first and focusing on him rather than cultural norms.

Invitation to stand if you feel the Lord is urging you do that.
Phil also asked those who were not sure if they were a follower of Jesus to stand
Phil prayed for all who had stood.
Song - Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me
Prophecy for someone who had come today
Closing Prayer - Phil

                                        Questions on Luke 9:51-62.
 Textual questions.

 1. What is the significance of Luke recording Jesus as 'resolutely' setting out for Jerusalem in verse 51?
2. Why did the Samaritans refuse hospitality to Jesus? (v 52-56)
3. What is the biblical allusion implied in the comment of James and John in v 54?
4. Why specifically are 'foxes' and 'birds of the air' referred to by Jesus in v 58?
5. How are we to understand the request 'bury my father' before commencing discipleship in v 59?
6. Who are the 'dead' who will bury others in v 60?
7. What is the issue with the potential disciple's seemingly innocuous request in v 61?
8. What are the other biblical references to not looking back relevant to v 62?


                                          Discussion questions.

1 . If discipleship involves acceptance of personal vulnerability (v 57-58), why does so much church teaching focus on the material blessing Christ can bring?

2. If v 60 teaches us to avoid accepting our cultural practices without question what norms in our culture should be critiqued?

WBC Messages - 280424 - Rev Phil Robinson - A Focused Journey

We welcome you to our Sunday Morning Message by our Senior Minister Rev Phil Robinson.

Welcome
Opening prayers
Bible Reading - John 14 v 15 - 31 

                                   Continuity Amidst  Change

The departure of a leading individual leads to the question - what happens next?  When Jesus told the disciples that he was leaving them he was acting more as a father than a rabbi, as they were all younger.
Philippians 3 v 7 - 8  But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ (our motto card for this year) reminds us that what we give over to God isn’t lost, but releases us for further blessing.
(1) Sustained Assistance v 15 - 17
Jesus knew the disciples would be alarmed at his news, so assured them of an ongoing relationship. They would have a comforter, a counsellor, who would be with them for ever, a permanent fixture reminding them of Truth. We are strong with the sustained help of the 
Holy Spirit, who will never forsake or abandon us.
(2) Sensitive Assistance v 18 - 24
The voice of a father speaking to his children, affirming them of the indissoluble union between them.  They won’t be alone .
(3) Shaping Assistance v 25 - 26
The  sustaining of the Holy Spirit will include good instructions, coming from Jesus himself. He empowers people to help and encourage us so that we are sustained in the Spirit. There are many voices, but we listen to the Voice of God. 
(4) Strengthening Assistance  v 27 - 31
Peace doesn’t mean an absence of war or trouble, it means the peace that makes you strong in the midst of the storm. We dig deep and find the strength of God to see us though. Christians aren’t immune from trouble, but with Christ it will not overwhelm us. 
” Be still and know that I am God”  Psalm 46 v 10 
Prayer to receive God’s peace
The Grace.
                                                 Questions on John 14:15-31.
 Textual questions.
 1. How do we understand the role of the Holy Spirit as our 'advocate'? (v 16)
 2. In what sense is the Holy Spirit  the 'Spirit of Truth'? (v 17, cf v6)
 3. Why can't the world comprehend the work of the Holy Spirit? (v 17)
 4. What is Jesus referring to in v 19?
 5. What is the significance of obedience according to v 21, 23 and 24?
 6. In what way does the Holy Spirit instruct us? (v 26)
 7. How do we understand the work of the Holy Spirit in the light of v28a?
 8. To whom is Jesus referring in v30-31? 
                                                       Discussion questions.
 1. How would you describe the anxieties of the disciples hearing that Jesus is leaving 	them?
2. What is the difference between worldly peace and spiritual peace?

WBC Messages - Rev Phil Robinson - Continuity Amidst Change

We were very privileged to have Chris Bowater, Songwriter and Worship leader, to sing and minister to us at Springwell at our Retired Men’s Group.
It was an Open Meeting when ladies could  join us. A good number enjoyed this time with Chris who also brought a challenging Message. Richard King opened with a Bible reading from Philippians 3 v 12 - 21 and Rev Bryan Gilbert closed our time together.
Many of the friends who listen from the UK and around the world on Soundcloud will remember Bryan from the days when he was involved with Billy Graham in the  crusades across the UK and Europe, and also when he and his wife Ann headed up One Step Forward, a ministry that was taken up by many countries around the world.

After listening to the message you may feel you need prayer. 
Why not speak to your Small Group leader or Pastoral leader (Springwell has over 25 such groups in many of the villages around the area)  If listening from around the UK or across the world speak to your minister or a trusted Christian friend.
It always amazes me that if you listen to the message later it still has the same anointing on it as when you heard it live.

WBC Messages - 070524 - Chris Bowater - Chris Sings And Talks About His Faithful God

We welcome you to our Sunday Morning Message at Springwell. Our Minister-in-Training Simon Clay brought us the teaching. At the beginning of July Simon will be ordained as a Baptist Minister and later inducted as Senior Minister of Upton Vale Baptist Church in Torquay. 

Welcome
Call to Worship and Prayer
Bible Reading John 16 v 16 - 33

                                              In Christ Alone
It’s ok to have  questions - only Christ has the answers. The more he tried to explain to the disciples, the more confused they became. At last they had no more questions.  Jesus’ response was to ask them if they now believed. 
The gospels paint the disciples in every flawed detail, which points to the power of God in them to carry his message to all the world. 
They were always missing the point and getting it wrong, as were the people in the Old Testament. 
“The story of scripture is the story of God continually breaking into our mess and confusion and showing us the reality of our situation”. 
The empty tomb is the guarantee that those who find Jesus will have eternal life in heaven for ever. It’s ok to be confused at first, but not to stay that way. Jesus illuminates our darkness. In v 24 he promises that our grief will turn to joy because of his resurrection.
Not only the events at the end of life, but as we go through our lives and find him. 
Jesus never promised his followers an easy ride, an inoculation from trouble. In John 20 the disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord; they had grieved, but no longer. God can grow this fruit in our lives as we build our hope on Jesus as the foundation of our lives. 
Nothing and nobody else can provide this, they will all crumble and fail.
Only Jesus can be our rock through our lives and at its end.
Jesus compares knowing him to childbirth, the contrast between pain and joy.   He transforms our grief and pain into rejoicing, joy in our hearts that has nothing to do with happiness or circumstances.
Our heart  begins to beat with his rhythm, so that we can pray as he would pray and those prayers will be answered.
Invitation to pray with Simon if Jesus is not the Lord of your life.
Song - It is well (When peace like a river) 
Closing words and prayer

As you will hear in the closing prayer two men came forward for prayer and committed their lives to Jesus for the first time. Later someone else rededicated his life to Jesus.

                                          Questions: John 16:16-33
The sermon focussed upon v.16-23 but the study will go to v.33
Jesus uses the term ‘a little while’: is he talking about the time between his death/resurrection, his ascension/return or Pentecost? Does it have to be one or another?

How can we use the confusion of the disciples to help us in our own walk and in our defence of the bible as a good account of the Life – Death – Resurrection of Jesus?
Are we promised that life will be ok, all the time, when we follow Jesus?
Explore what Jesus may mean by ‘the world rejoices’ in the face of the weeping and mourning of the disciples (then and also now).
Note in verse 23, ‘You will no longer ask me anything’. With the Spirit to enlighten (verses 12-15) and the Father to supply our needs, what do we learn in verses 23-28 about the place of prayer? On what do we rely when we pray in the name of Jesus Christ? (14:13, 14; 15:16)
Do the disciples actually understand in verse 29? How can we interpret Jesus’s response?

WBC Messages - 120524 - Simon Clay - In Christ Alone

On Saturday 18th May Springwell hosted the 2nd Brothers in Christ Conference. Over 60 men came togetherfrom the East Midlands and further away. Our guest speaker for the day was Tim Nelson, CEO of Hope for Justice. Tim brought us teaching in two sessions. Our theme for May's conference is borrowed from the title of a Rolling Stones song, 'You can't always get what you want' and we were using it to talk about dealing with disappointment as we follow Jesus.
If you would like some information about Hope for Justice just search for www.hopeforjustice.org 
If you would like information about Brothers in Christ search for https://embaptists.co.uk/
This first session on Saturday morning is titled Vessel of Honour

WBC Messages - 180524AM - Tim Nelson - Brothers In Christ - Vessel Of Honour

On Saturday 18th May Springwell hosted the 2nd Brothers in Christ Conference. Over 60 men came together from the East Midlands and further away. Our guest speaker for the day was Tim Nelson, CEO of Hope for Justice. Tim brought us teaching in two sessions. Our theme for May's conference is borrowed from the title of a Rolling Stones song, 'You can't always get what you want' and we were using it to talk about dealing with disappointment as we follow Jesus.
If you would like some information about Hope for Justice just search for www.hopeforjustice.org 
If you would like information about Brothers in Christ search for https://embaptists.co.uk/
This second  session on Saturday morning is titled This is our turn and our time

WBC Messages - 180524PM - Tim Nelson - Brothers In Christ - This Is Our Turn And Time

We welcome you to our Sunday Morning message at Springwell. Our Associate Minister Rev Nick Swanson brings us teaching on Pentecost Sunday.

Welcome
Pentecost Reading - Act 2 v 1 - 4 - Andrea
Prayer of thanks for the Holy Spirit - Sarah
Bible Readings - John 20 v 20 - 23 & Ephesians 4 v 1 - 6

That they all may be one
The One Show - not the TV programme, but the prayer of Jesus for believers.  His last opportunity before the crucifixion and resurrection. Of all the things he could have prayed for, he asks the Father for unity among ALL believers. Why?
(1) Be One as God is One  v 21
Jesus is One with the Father, speaking the words He wants him to say. But there is more to it than that,  there is a mysterious and beautiful flow of love between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They are a self- sustaining community of love which he invites us to enter into and share. We can’t really understand it, but we can experience it.
Why is it so important?
(2) Be One so the World will believe.
The outward behaviour of a community who truly love each other is attractive to outsiders, and noticeable as a powerful witness to God’s love for us and in us.
He loves us as much as He loves Jesus!  Discovering this has a powerful impact.
(3) Be One and Work Hard at it  v 3
‘Make every effort’ is not easy. Paul begs the church at Ephesus to focus on what they have in common, not on their differences as this could lead to factions. He tells how it’s done;  being humble and patient etc. Not ignoring bad behaviour but challenging it lovingly while displaying the fruit of the Spirit.  See Psalm 133.
This is the place of blessing for individuals and churches and the world will believe because of it.
Prayer - Nick
The Grace

                                 Questions That they all may be one

Q1. How would you describe ‘unity’?

Read John 17 v 20-23
Q2. Just before His arrest, His trial, and His crucifixion, 
       Jesus prays for His disciples out loud. Why?

Q3. What kind of unity is Jesus praying for His followers?
       (v 21a & 23a)

Q4. What does Jesus mean when He says that He has given us 
       His glory so that we can be one? (v 22)

Q5. Why is Jesus so concerned that believers are one? 
       (v 21b & 23b)

Read Ephesians 4 v 1-6
Q6. What is our role in maintaining visible unity? (v 3)

Q7. How can we do this? (v 2)

What is God saying to you through these passages?

WBC Messages - 190524 - Rev Nick Swanson - That They All May Be One

On Sunday Morning Emily gave her Testimony and was Baptised by Simon Clay  our Minister-in Training soon to be the Senior Minister of Upton Vale Baptist Church Torquay. He was assisted by Nichola Ling one of the Youth leaders of Space. Simon explains what Believers baptism is all about. We sang a Emily's favourite Song Lead me to the Cross before she was baptised  and afterwards  the Song Praise.

WBC Messages - 190524 - Emily Gives Her Testimony And Is Baptised

Welcome to our Sunday Morning Message at Springwell. Our Associate Minister Rev Nick Swanson brings us a message from Matthew’s Gospel.

Song - This I believe (The Creed)
Opening Prayer - Rev Bryan Gilbert
Bible Reading - Matthew 14 v 22 - 32  Read by Sue Swanson
Prayer before the message

Walking on Water  

You never know what’s going to happen in this life. The disciples had just watched Jesus feed 5000 people, then he sent them off in a boat without him. Jesus went off by himself to talk to his Father, as he always did when something big was happening.
All the weather was against that boat, it was no longer plain sailing. At the worst time, 3 am, Jesus came to them, as he does to us in our darkest challenges.
We may fear his presence as the disciples did, but he reassured them with his voice. 
The wind and waves didn’t die down, but he told them not to be afraid. 
Peter, secure in the boat, realised that going to Jesus was the safest option.
He found himself walking above the turbulence, but had to let go of what was previously
holding him up and look at Jesus, not the chaos.
But Peter turned his eyes to the raging sea, and fear sank his faith. He called out to Jesus, who immediately thrust out a hand to save him. Crazy as it may seem, the best thing we can do is to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. 
We don’t ignore the situation, but realise that Jesus really is the Son of God. 
Whatever gales are blowing in your life now, Jesus is present in the darkness, walking on the water towards you with love and concern. Stretching out a hand to you, inviting you to come to him.
Can you fix your eyes on him and leave the boat? Feel yourself walking above it all, held up by Jesus. You won’t sink if you fix your attention on him instead of the chaos, for he will hold you up.
Song - God I look to you
Song - Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Prayer and Grace

Let nothing disturb you
Nothing distress you
All things are passing
God never changes
Be patient
With God in your heart
Nothing is lacking
God is enough
                         Teresa of Avila

WBC Messages -  260524 - Rev Nick Swanson - Walking On Water

Welcome to our Sunday Morning Message at Springwell. Our Minister-in-Training, Simon, brings us a challenging word about Jesus stilling the storm.
 
Welcome
Prayer -Simon
Bible Reading - Mark 4 v 35 - 41 Read by Joy
Prayer before Message

Jesus calms the storm

The central theme of this passage is not what Jesus can do, but who he is. As we meet the storms of life let us not concentrate on how Jesus can help us, but on who he is.
(1) Let’s go over to the other side ......
Jesus had had a busy day, so fell asleep as soon as they set off. ‘The other side’  was fairly unknown hostile territory, but the disciples obeyed the instruction to go there, even at night. Their obedience in the face of common sense was commendable; we too must be prepared to follow him. 
(2) Just as He was......
v 36 is an odd detail. The concept of Jesus, already in the boat, giving the orders to fishermen although it wasn’t his boat. Jesus is Jesus since before the world began.
(3) There were other boats......
We don’t hear any more about them. Did they turn back when the storm came up? The Sea of Galilee was notorious for sudden violent, quite unpredictable storms. Jesus was not in their boats with them. He calls us to continue with Him. The fastest growing church in the world is in Iran, where terrible persecution is happening. 
(4) the furious squall......
Jesus never promised that life would be easy for his followers. The storm was not a surprise, they just didn’t know when it would happen. But Jesus with them kept them safe.
It was their own obedience that led them into the storm. It was not a punishment but an opportunity to see what Jesus could do.
(5) Teacher, don’t you care?......
Their first response was to ask if Jesus cared. Probably the worst question they could have asked. They call him Teacher, but he’s so much more. They had limited understanding of who Jesus is, if only a good human teacher he had no more influence on the storm than they had, so they were afraid. 
Our understanding of who Jesus is, knowing him as Lord and not just as Teacher, transforms our response to any storm.
He didn’t just transport the boat to the shore, but dealt with the wind and waves
(6) Afraid or in awe?......
This story can’t be explained away. Psalm 89 tells us that God rules over the raging sea. Isaiah 50 says the same, so do others. This proves that Jesus is truly God.
At the end of the story they were terrified. Not of the storm but of the awesome power of Jesus. They had crossed over from fear of the storm to an awestruck revelation of Jesus’ power and identity. We too can cross over from the storms of this life to security in Him. “When you go through deep waters I will be with you.”
Prayer for people needing a reminder of Jesus’ Lordship. - Simon
Song - My hope is built on nothing less (Cornerstone)
Song - King of kings, Majesty
Closing prayer - Simon

                        Questions on the stilling of the storm
1.The ‘other side’ represented a place that was out of the comfort zone for the disciples. What places has God called you or potentially could call you that are represented in the ‘other side’?
2.Many boats left with Jesus and the disciples but only the boat with Jesus didn’t turn back: what are the ways in which people may be discouraged in their journey of faith and, potentially, ‘turn back’?
3.The disciples faced wind and waves, even when following what Jesus asked them to do; what can lessons can we learn from this in our own walk of faith?
4.Jesus deals with the wind first, then the waves. This is an example in which Jesus deals with the cause of a problem first and the symptom second. Can you think of examples in our faith journey in which we may ask Jesus to deal with the symptoms but he seeks to deal with the cause?
5.In scripture, only God himself commands the wind and waves; what implications does this have for our view of Jesus?                        

WBC Messages - 020624 - Simon Clay - Jesus Calms The Storm

You are welcome to join us for Communion at Springwell. 
Our Associate Minister Rev Nick Swanson leads us in Communion and prays for the Persecuted Church. Julie Clayton, Terry Smith and John Denny lead us in the Worship.
Song - When I survey the wondrous cross
Communion including  Song - How deep the Father's love for us
Prayer for the Persecuted Church
Song - What gift of grace is my redeemer
Grace

WBC Messages - 020624 - Rev Nick Swanson - Worship - Communion And Prayers For The Persecuted Church

Welcome to Springwell as you join us to listen to our Sunday Morning Message. Our Associate Minister Rev Nick Swanson brings us teaching on The Main Thing.

Welcome
Opening Prayer - Andrew Ling
Bible Reading Matthew 22 v 34 - 40 & 1 John 4 v 7 -11 Read by Susan Anderson
Prayer before Message

The Main Thing

These are important passages.  Keeping the main thing first, or keeping your eye on the ball, is the most important thing.  When Jesus was asked about this it was a trick question designed to trip him up. But Jesus’ answer couldn’t be faulted - Love God.
(1) But how? with ALL our being. Not just intellectually, or emotionally or in our behaviour but in all of them. Not only in time at church but in every action through the week. Jesus said ‘If you love me you will obey my commandments.’ This sort of love pleases God, but it’s a huge challenge. It’s a lifetime work, as Teresa of Avila said ” I don’t love God, I don’t want to love God, but I do want to want to love God”
(2) God loved you first.
‘Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so’
John knew he was loved by God, and it was proved by the sending of his son into the world.
God grieves when his people don’t respond, but our love can grow as we respond. 
The more we reflect about and consider this love, the more it increases in us. If we don’t it will wither. If we do, we will also love others. We are empowered to love God and  our neighbours, even our enemies (cf the good Samaritan story).
We reflect God’s love, one that costs, which is willing even towards the undeserving.

Are you keeping the main thing the main thing? This is our only measurement of Kingdom success, to love him with all we are. 
Prayer - Nick 
Song - I cast my mind to Calvary
The Grace
     Questions on Matthew 22 v 34-40 & 1 John 4 v 7-11 & v 19

Q1. Why do we love particular people? 

Read Matthew 22 v 34-40 & 1 John 4 v 7-11 & v 19

Q2. Why is loving God the greatest commandment? (22 v 38 & 40)

Q3. Jesus says we are to love God with all that we are (22 v 37). What does that mean?

Q4. What is our ultimate reason for loving God? (4 v 10) 

Q5. Jesus uses one different word to the text in Deuteronomy 6 v 5. Why is the ‘mind’ so significant in loving God more?

Q6. God’s love should also enable us to love others (4 v 11 & 19).
What does it mean to love others as yourself? (22 v 39)

Q7. Why do you think this comes second to the command to love God? (22 v 39)

Q8. In what way do all the Law and the prophets hang on these two commandments? (v 40)

What is God saying to you through this passage?

WBC Messages - 090624 - Rev Nick Swanson - The Main Thing

We are pleased you have joined us on Father’s Day for our Morning Message. Our Associate Minister Rev Nick Swanson brings us a message on how we can have peace.

Welcome
Song - Battle Belongs
Prayer for Father’s Day - Jamie
Bible Reading - Philippians 4 v 4 - 7 Read by Emma
Prayer before Message

Peace to You
There are many things to worry about, but Jesus offers another way - his peace and joy.
Paul takes this to another level - always, everywhere, in every situation. But how?
(1) Look to the Lord and rejoice v 4
Shut out all the things that demand our attention and focus on Jesus. 
Don’t concentrate on the problem, or yourself, but on the living Father, the strong deliverer.
Joy will then fill our hearts in the most amazing way.
In the midst of grief and sadness we can still find joy. Paul was in prison, yet this letter oozes joy.
In the midst of all our problems, are we looking to Jesus? 
(2) Learn from the Lord, be patient. 
Gentleness means being patient with other people. Those who hurt us, with whom we disagree.  There were two women in the church Paul was writing to who were like this, Paul appeals to them to make peace, and to the rest of the church to help them. We all need the right attitude of heart, not to change other people but ourselves, having gentleness and long-suffering patience with each other as Jesus had (v 2)
Despite all Jesus suffered from others, he never sought revenge.
(3) Pray to the Lord and find peace v 5 
Paul puts all this in the context of prayer. Exchange your stress and worry for God’s peace. You no longer need to carry them, you can let go of them into his hands as you love him and trust him. Don’t pick them up again! His supernatural peace is available if we accept it. Not the peace from God but of God Himself living in us.
Being  a Christian doesn’t mean we are immune to life’s ills, but we can hand over our woes into God’s loving care and know his peace. 

Prayer of thanks
Song - There is a higher throne
 
Questions on “Peace to You”

Q1. What are your main causes of worry and stress?

Q2. What are your main coping strategies?

Read Philippians 4 v 2-7

Q3. Paul says ‘Rejoice in the Lord always’ twice (v 4)! Is this possible and, if so, how? 

Q4. Why do you think Paul is so concerned that Christians in Philippi show gentleness to one another? (v 2,3 & 5)

Q5. What difference might ‘gentleness’ make? (v 5)

Q6. Why does he mention that the Lord is near (v 5)?

Q7. Paul says prayer is the way to discovering God’s peace. What does Paul say is important about this way of praying (v 6)?

Q8. Verse 7 promises the amazing peace of God. How would you explain what Paul says about God’s peace (v 7)?

What will you take away from this passage? 
Share that with God.

WBC Messages - 160624 - Rev Nick Swanson - Peace To You

Whetstone Baptist Church is a community of faith in South Leicestershire, UK, who live to glorify God through Jesus Christ in worship, making disciples, loving one another, and serving the community. We are a group of people from many different backgrounds, who have had many different experiences in life, and yet have one thing that brings us together and unites us – our love for our Father God and our relationship with him through his son, Jesus Christ. Our Senior Pastor is Rev. Phil Robinson and our Associate Pastor is Rev. Nick Swanson.

Whetstone Baptist Church is a vibrant and active church, hosting services on Sundays and running midweek small groups which offer a more personal setting to explore and deepen faith with typically 8-12 others. We have dedicated prayer and pastoral groups and a wide range of adult, young person, and child ministry groups. 

Our WBC Messages playlist contains the latest messages from our Sunday services and other recorded items. For more information please visit our website at https://www.whetstonebaptist.uk Thanks.

Popular tracks by Whetstone Baptist Church