295 results
Semper Reformanda: always reforming
To be called a “Reformed” church is to be aligned with the teaching of the “Reformers” that began in the 16th century. Two theological giants particularly occupy this space – Martin Luther (1483–1546) and John Calvin (1509–1564). In broad terms, it can…
Dealing with Alexander
2Tim 4:14, “Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works.” This is a verse which seems to contradict other verses / passages which take a different approach to those who hurt us. Luke 23:34…
If you abide in My Word, you are My disciples indeed
It seems almost sacrilegious for a Christian to admit that they struggle to read the Bible. Perhaps like a mother admitting that she struggles to love her children. I venture to say, there are more Christians who fail to maintain daily devotions…
Weep no more
In Revelation 4–5, we are given a glimpse into heaven. The curtain is pulled back, and we are allowed to see what, in many ways, our minds cannot comprehend. Indeed, I think we need this more than we realise. In chapter 4…
The heroines of Hahndorf
While on holiday in Adelaide last May, we visited the town of Hahndorf. Just outside Hahndorf is the former home and workshop of the landscape artist, Hans Heysen. Heysen emigrated to Adelaide from Germany in 1884 at the age of 7. Along…
The sea
In my early Christian days I was not overly thrilled when I discovered this verse. Rev 21:1, “Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also, there was no…
The nature of the Christian nation
Presently, there is much discussion on the subject of Christian nationalism and the idea that particular countries are historically, Christian. The scriptures do speak of a holy nation, but it is not defined by geographical borders, political allegiances or religious influences such…
Living epistles
If people are to be converted to the Christian faith, they must hear the Word of God. The apostle Paul said to Timothy, the scriptures are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (1Tim 3:15)…
In defence of shell collecting
In the year 2000 John Piper preached a sermon which became famous for an illustration he used. The illustration subsequently made its way into the book, Don’t Waste Your Life, published in 2004. The illustration came from an article in Readers Digest…
The spirit of power, love and a sound mind
The apostle Paul writes to his young protégé, Timothy, because he wants him to flourish in the ministry that God has appointed him to. 2 Tim 1:6, “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you…
Hallowed be Your name
I love the hymn, Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah. It wonderfully depicts the pilgrimage of God’s people in this fallen world and His presence to provide and protect. If God’s name is Jehovah (Yahweh), why do the Jews not use it?…
How will you be remembered?
When I walk around the city, I like to look at the memorials and statues commemorating people who have shaped our state and nation. Adjacent to Hyde Park at the Elizabeth St and Bathurst St junction is a large obelisk erected in…
The converted thief
As we remember the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus this Easter, I would like us for a moment to remove our eyes from Christ to consider one of the men crucified next to Him. All four gospels record the crucifixion…
Christ is good because Christ is God
Mark 10:17-18, “Now as He (Christ) was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, "Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?" (18) So Jesus said to him, "Why do you…
Hospitality
1Tim 3:2, “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behaviour, hospitable, able to teach.” Rom 12:13, “….distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.” 1Peter 4:9, “Be hospitable to one another without…
Let your yes be yes
What is a vow and how does it differ to an oath? A vow is a solemn promise made to the Lord while an oath is a solemn promise made to a person / people in the presence of the Lord. Often…
Don’t live the dream, live the reality
Church bulletin: It’s an expression we have heard many times, “living the dream.” It relates to the person who has gained the kind of life they had always imagined and hoped for. Perhaps they are making a living through something they love…
Joy to the world
Church bulletin: In the superb book, A Call to Christian Formation – How Theology Makes Sense of our World, the authors John Clark and Marcus Johnson, say this – “Our passion for truth and understanding should be marked by a passion for…
A new day dawns
Church bulletin: After much prayer, deliberation, discussion and work, the merger of SDRBC and KBCC becomes a reality today – December 7, 2025. The journey began at the end of 2021 and at the end of two years of Covid inconveniences. Southern…
Miniscule mites and massive mammals
Church bulletin: Some illustrations in the Bible are meant to amuse us. The lesson is serious but it is conveyed in a humous way. Matt 23:24 is one such example – “Blind guides, who strain out a gnat (a small housefly) and…