Sermon Summaries

Scripture testifies, from the resurrection through the book of Acts, of an ever-increasing government—a kingdom that knows no bounds. “Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end” (Isaiah 9:7). This is not just a hopeful sentiment; it’s a divine declaration of the unstoppable nature of God’s kingdom. Many throughout history have attempted to halt its progress, but to no avail. When God sets His plans in motion, they cannot be derailed by human opposition. If a work truly stems from God, its success is assured; if not, it will eventually falter. There’s an assurance for every believer: nothing can thwart the purposes of God in your life, save for your own reluctance.   God’s Undeterred Agenda for YouWe often look at external factors—the devil, our surroundings, even our heritage—as impediments to our spiritual journey. However, the only true obstacle we might face is ourselves. God’s kingdom within us is just as unsolvable and unstoppable as it is universally. Align yourself with His reign, and you align yourself with an unceasing force.   Prosperity in Famine: Learning from JacobConsider Jacob, who sowed during famine yet reaped a hundredfold return. What seemed illogical in human terms was entirely plausible within the economy of God’s kingdom—one not affected by earthly limitations. Just as the Kingdom of Heaven operates independently of our world’s economic fluctuations, we too can prosper amidst adversity, not because of prevailing conditions, but due to the eternal nature of God’s promises.   From Mistakes to Mission: Paul’s TransformationTake Saul, later known as Paul, a man originally complicit in violent threats against Jesus’ disciples. Yet, in a moment of heavenly intervention, he found himself blind and dependent, wholly surrendered to God’s command. It’s here we learn an essential truth: even in our missteps or outright rebellion, God’s purpose perseveres. And it was through this surrender that Paul became a chief architect of the early Church, penning much of what would become the New Testament.   Identity and Purpose: Discovering Who We Are in HimOur understanding of who God is shapes our identity. People who know their God are secure in their skin, liberated from the fickle standards of human acceptance. They operate from a place of divinely imparted grace, thus extending the same grace to others. True fulfillment comes when one’s internal compass is aligned with God’s heartbeat, making the questions “Who are you, Lord?” and “What do you want me to do?” foundational to a purposeful life in Christ.   The Assurance of Completion: Philippians 1:6Paul assures us in Philippians 1:6 that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. If God can repurpose lives strewn with failure—lives like those of David, Peter, and indeed Paul—then rest assured, He can, and will, use you for His glory.   Let this message spark transformation as we adopt a posture of obedience and inquiry, asking not merely for things but seeking direction: “Lord, what do you want me to do?” In doing so, we take up our role in the unstoppable narrative God has authored—a narrative where His kingdom thrives through us, and His will is executed on earth as it is in heaven.

In a world where challenges and persecution are inevitable, especially for those who dare to stand for their faith, there is a profound lesson to be learned from the early disciples. They were arrested for preaching the gospel, yet upon their release, they did not ask God to remove their hardships. Instead, they prayed for boldness to continue speaking His word. This counterintuitive response to adversity is a powerful example for modern believers. When faced with trials, our instinct might be to pray for an escape. However, the disciples’ prayer was different: “Lord, look on their threats and grant that your servants may speak Your word with all boldness.” They understood that the mission was greater than their comfort, and they sought divine empowerment to fulfill it.   The Response to PersecutionThe disciples’ reaction to persecution was not to seek a life of ease but to embrace the challenges as part of their mission. They knew that proclaiming the gospel would attract opposition, yet they asked for more courage to lead them to places where people needed to hear about Christ. Their focus was not on the absence of struggle but on the presence of God’s power in their lives.   Distractions and Discouragements: The Subtle AttacksWhile many of us may not face overt persecution for our faith, we encounter subtle attacks that can be just as debilitating. Distractions, discouragement, and the need for acceptance can veer us off course. The enemy does not always come with a frontal assault; often, he uses these tactics to undermine our mission and shake our faith.   Encouraging Ourselves in the LordIn moments of weakness or doubt, we must remember that God is closer than a brother. His arm is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear. Even when we do not feel His presence, He is still at work. It is crucial to encourage ourselves in the Lord, reminding ourselves of His promises and faithfulness.   Unity and Offense Within the ChurchChallenges also arise within the church community. Misunderstandings and offenses will occur, but they should not cause us to abandon fellowship. We are called to unity, not uniformity. Bearing with one another in love and extending grace is essential for maintaining the bond of peace.   Standing Firm in FaithOur faith will be tested, but these tests serve to strengthen us. Like muscles that grow under pressure, our faith develops resilience when challenged. Jesus Himself prayed not for the removal of trials but for our faith to endure. Submitting to God and resisting the devil is the key to overcoming these spiritual battles.   The Outcome of SufferingSuffering is temporary, and it serves a purpose in God’s plan. After we have endured, God promises to restore, support, and strengthen us. Our trials are not pointless; they refine and prepare us for the destiny God has in store.   As believers, we must remain vigilant, standing firm against the enemy’s schemes. Let us not be swayed by the distractions and discouragements that seek to derail us. Instead, let us follow the example of the early disciples, praying for boldness to speak the word of God, no matter the cost. In doing so, we will fulfill our mission and witness the Kingdom of God advance, both in our lives and in the world around us.

Have you ever pondered the cascade of events following Jesus’ resurrection? How a moment in history altered human destiny, resonating through millennia to reach us today? It’s about understanding that embracing Christ marks not an end, but a commencement—a springboard into participating actively in God’s unfolding narrative. The resurrection stands as the paramount sign of Jesus being the Messiah. But it wasn’t the finale; rather, it was the prelude to a divine story unfolding through humanity. Curiously, I delved into what transpired post-resurrection and realized the profound impact it had—how it shaped our very existence, regardless of our geographical disconnect from the event. Intriguingly, Christianity flourished from its epicenter to every corner of the world—an evolution captured in historical timelines showing faith’s spread through centuries. Isaiah 9:7 prophesied an endless augmentation of His government and peace, emphasizing the unstoppable momentum of God’s reign. However, this unstoppable kingdom hinges on our involvement. We are instrumental in translating this celestial vision into reality. The widespread Gospel did not occur serendipitously or by a supernatural wave alone. It demanded personal commitment—someone to embody and communicate the message of the risen Christ. God’s promises are predominantly paired with commands that carry innate rewards. Nevertheless, shifting from transactional obedience to a reciprocal relationship where what matters to God becomes our priority is essential. Our dedication to God and each other invites divine magnetism, drawing souls towards His Kingdom. John 3:16 encapsulates God’s immense love and concern for the world. His compassion drove Jesus to endure the cross, envisioning the joy of transformed lives. How do we perpetuate this love? By replicating early Christians who risked everything so generations hence could encounter Jesus. As they devoted themselves to apostles’ teachings and communal sharing, God added to their numbers daily, making evident the sustainability and expansiveness of His Kingdom. Matthew 6:33 presents a compelling motivation for prioritizing God’s domain. Our workplaces, neighborhoods, and familial settings might be devoid of His essence, yet we hold the capacity to introduce His grace into these spheres. The book of Acts is pivotal in understanding how a mere 120 believers evolved into a movement engulfing the globe. On Pentecost, they received the Holy Spirit—not for flamboyant spiritual manifestations but to empower them for mission. The Holy Spirit conferred boldness on disciples like Peter, who once denied Jesus but later fearlessly preached salvation to thousands. Hence, we must be steadfast in doctrine, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayers. Miracles and signs will follow, but the true marvel is the transformation of hearts attuned to God. Every interaction is an opportunity to display Jesus. With every act of generosity, we emulate Him, sowing seeds that inevitably bear fruit in us and others. Seeking the Kingdom first assures favor from God, which in turn amplifies our capacity to influence and usher more people into His light. So, we pose a challenge: Commit to reaching someone for God’s Kingdom this year. Be the beacon in someone’s darkness, use the gifts bestowed upon you, and let your light shine unrestrained. Let’s not confuse the church as merely a social club—it’s a dynamic force with a mission to reimagine the world. Remember, when we devote ourselves wholeheartedly to God’s cause, we become vessels for His relentless love and power—an unstoppable tide changing lives, communities, and the course of history itself.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as a cornerstone of Christian faith, embodying the triumph of life over death and offering an eternal source of hope. This event transcends time, reaching out to touch our lives today with its transformative power. Easter is a season marked by reflection on the profound sacrifice made on Good Friday when Jesus bore the weight of humanity’s sins. It was a somber moment, one that paved the way for the miraculous to occur. The resurrection signifies a new beginning, a promise of redemption and renewal for all who believe. The joy of Easter Sunday is not confined to a single day but echoes throughout time. It serves as a daily reminder that through the resurrection, we are granted forgiveness and the privilege of a restored relationship with God. This is a truth that can anchor us amidst life’s storms, providing a steadfast hope that endures. The implications of the resurrection are vast and deeply personal, yet they carry a universal message of love and salvation. It is the bedrock upon which the Christian faith is built, affirming that life has conquered death and that faith in Jesus offers a path to eternal life. As a community of believers, it is essential to embrace and celebrate the resurrection, allowing it to shape our lives and actions. It calls us to live with purpose, knowing that each day is an opportunity to reflect the love and grace that have been so freely given to us. In this season and beyond, let us hold fast to the hope of the resurrection. Let it inspire us to live courageously, love generously, and serve faithfully, confident in the knowledge that because He lives, we too can face the future with assurance and peace. May the message of the resurrection fill your hearts with joy and guide you in your journey of faith. Peace be with you.

By Ps Bojan Palić Have you ever set a goal, worked tirelessly towards it, trusting that God would bless your efforts, and then when you finally achieved it, you felt… underwhelmed? That sense of, “Is this all there is?” I believe many of us have been there, and today I want to discuss why that happens. I’ve come to realise that we often feel a sense of disappointment because we’re trying to fill a God-shaped void in our souls with worldly achievements. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, but imagine that the round hole is the size of the universe, and our accomplishments are tiny squares. They simply don’t fit. This God-shaped hole within us can only be filled by God’s presence. When we chase external things to satisfy this craving, we miss the point. The blessings from God are not the issue, it’s when we expect these blessings to fill what only God is meant to fulfill that leads to disappointment. Jesus demonstrated this when He fed the 5,000. He gave them food for their physical hunger, but He also desired to satisfy a deeper spiritual hunger. Jesus doesn’t just want us to desire His blessings; He wants us to desire Him. Yet, we often mistake the fulfillment of God’s promises for the ultimate satisfaction when, in reality, it’s only through His presence that we can find true contentment. In John 20:31, we read that signs and miracles are recorded so we might believe that Jesus is the Christ and have life in His name. The miracles weren’t just proof of power; they were invitations to a relationship with Jesus Himself. But, if we prioritise the gift over the Giver, aren’t we missing the mark? We can easily fall into a consumerism mindset within our faith, always seeking more of God’s blessings without seeking God Himself. But God’s kingdom doesn’t function on consumerism; it functions on contribution. What we need to understand is that God blesses us not just because He loves us, which He undoubtedly does, but so that we may come to know Him better. Our response to His blessings should lead us toward Him. Faith is not a substitute for works, but rather the foundation from which pleasing works flow out naturally. When we truly understand salvation – the greatest miracle – and accept Jesus, we should respond in worship. Worship isn’t just about singing songs during service; it’s living a devoted life unto God, holding onto Him, trusting, and relying on Him. As believers, we’re called to serve, not out of obligation, but out of a love for Jesus and what He has done for us. Service becomes an expression of our lifestyle of worship. Jesus teaches us to lift our eyes beyond the material and onto spiritual realities. He invites us to put our confidence in Him instead of earthly riches that leave us ultimately unfulfilled. For Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life.” Whoever comes to Him will never go hungry or thirst again. True life is knowing God intimately, believing in Him, and letting that belief transform how we live. In closing, my encouragement to you is to stop chasing things that will never satisfy. Instead, pursue a relationship with God, engage with Him, and let your life reflect that devotion. When you truly know Jesus, you won’t need anyone to urge you to seek Him – you’ll want to, because you’ll have found something that fills every void in your heart, something that no earthly achievement could ever match. Remember, while the world may leave us feeling empty, Jesus promises eternal satisfaction. It’s time to stop chasing after the perishable and start pursuing the everlasting sustenance that only He can provide.

Past disappointments can often govern our expectations, especially when it comes to what we believe God can do in our lives. We sometimes lower our expectations to match our experiences instead of aligning our expectations with the power of God. But as believers, we are urged to elevate our faith, to anticipate more, and to not confine God’s work within the narrow walls of our past. When entering a place of worship, carry with you an expectant heart. It readies us for an encounter with the divine, placing a demand on God’s infinite capabilities. Yet, let’s acknowledge that God’s grace is so profound that He can move even when we least expect it, even when we’re not actively seeking Him. We anchor our discussion on John 20:31. The passage highlights the intention behind the Gospel of John: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.” This truth beckons us to greater faith, stirring up belief, and urging us to rely on Him for much more than merely material blessings. As we walk into this year, dubbed the ‘Year of Wider Faith’, remember this – the righteous shall live by faith. God wants to expand our horizons beyond just praying for better jobs or houses; He desires for us to trust Him for monumental shifts in the spiritual realm. The Currency of the KingdomThe true currency of God’s Kingdom isn’t found in possessions but in people—God’s beloved creation. Our focus should then shift from accumulating more stuff to guiding more hearts towards Him. That’s where real transformation takes place. Jesus Finds UsThis beautiful reality was manifest when Jesus encountered a man who had been invalid for 38 years near the pool of Bethesda. Despite being surrounded by the possibility of healing, the man remained unhealed, possibly symbolizing the ineffectiveness of strict adherence to religious law without the transformative presence of Christ. Christ challenges our complacency by asking us not if we can be healed, but if we want to be healed, prompting a recognition of our helplessness and a need for divine intervention. Do You Want to Be Made Well?The invalid responded with excuses, highlighting a profound human tendency to embrace limitations. However, Jesus cut through these restraints with a simple command: “Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk.” And as the man obliged, he was healed instantly—a testament to the immediate power of obedience to Christ’s word. Sin No MoreJesus’ miracle was not only a physical healing but also an instruction for spiritual renewal—”See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.” Every miracle thus becomes a call to repentance, a nudge closer to God, and an opportunity to align one’s life with His divine purpose. ConclusionLets reflect upon your own spiritual journey’s. God is consistently reaching out, inviting us to draw closer, to delve deeper into a relationship with Him. Whether you’ve walked with Him for years or stand on the outskirts of faith, the question remains: Do you want to be made well? Let Jesus find you today, and may your response be one of faith, stepping into the fullness of life in His name.