Cornerstone Church Kingston podcast

In this brand-new series on the Gospel of Luke, Pete bookends this orderly account with Luke 1: 1-4 and 44: 36-49. We have all heard the word of God, but how can we be certain it is true? This gospel writer - apostle, historian, doctor - understood the importance of certainty very well. Hear his evidence for yourself. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 02:32 What Is True? 11:19 Certainty 18:40 Careful Investigation 21:32 Eyewitnesses 36:58 Applications 47:00 Closing Prayer

Continuing our series in the book of James, Tom preaches from James 1:1-8. James starts as he means to go on - full of encouragement and full of challenge. Even in trials of all kinds, we can be confident of God's sovereign care, his willingness to give us wisdom to trust him, and his purpose to make us increasingly like Jesus. But we must come to him alone, not rely on ourselves or hold onto allegiance to any other master. Even if our prayer is simply ‘I believe - help my unbelief', the one we come to is our loving Heavenly Father, full of grace and truth - hold fast to him!

September's Mix launches a new series: Jesus in the Book, which Pete begins, of course, at the beginning, in Genesis. Jesus' own genesis was not on the day of his birth, nor did he begin at all. He was always with the Father and the Spirit, ever constant. See how the earliest days of creation point to the coming of the saviour king.

As we begin our new series in the book of James, Tom introduces us to the book. Written by James the brother of Jesus, it is a short but punchy book that encourages and challenges believers about their faith. James pulls no punches about the reality of the Christian life lived by faith. As Tom unpacks the main themes of the book and prepares us for the sermons to come, some big questions arise: how do I know my faith is real? Does it cause a change to my life? Do my actions reflect my words? Will I hear the Word of God with humility?

Is there anyone you thought God couldn't save? Guest speaker Rob examines one such man found in 2 Kings 5: a high-standing enemy of God, brought low by disease and raised up as a new creation. Though his pride shackled him, humility freed him. Naaman's case could easily be our own, if only we would come to the Lord and be cleansed. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 06:13 God's Grace To The Most Unlikely Of Men 14:16 God's Grace Is Free But It Humbles 21:55 God's Grace Transforms 26:42 Applications 33:34 Closing Prayer

In this one-off sermon, Bart preaches from 1 Samuel 29:1-11. In this passage we see David - not yet king of God's people, and curiously marching to war against Israel with the army of the Philistines - being told to return back to their land by their king instead of go to battle with them. As Bart provides the context for this event in the Bible and unpacks these verses, we see how God is sovereignly directing these events in unexpected, quiet, merciful ways to fulfil his purposes for his glory, and we consider what this means for us today.

Returning guest speaker Maurice opens up the wonder of Psalm 2, identifying the universal problem in every human heart. The world is in open rebellion against God, but what is the limited power of meagre man to the almighty God? Our Lord will not be shouted down. Come and pay homage to the King today. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 03:43 Unfair Verona 05:59 The Universal Human Problem 12:07 The Lord Speaks 22:59 God's Promise To His Son 30:15 Kiss God's Son 40:46 Closing Prayer

As a special one-off sermon, Maurice Kinnaird preaches from Luke 24:13-53. In this passage we see Jesus meeting with two disciples on the road to Emmaus - and he causes their hearts to burn within them with affection for himself! But Jesus doesn't even reveal himself to them, and they are downcast emotionally when he meets them… sometimes we don't 'feel it', so how do we grow in affection for Christ? As Maurice unpacks these verses for us, we see that affection for Christ is connected with the scriptures - old and new testaments - and knowing and trusting the truth of God's word, rather than relying on emotions alone.

Pete's latest exploration of the songbook of Hebrews is from Psalm 8, quoted in Hebrews 2: 5-9. Here we witness the choirmaster at the head of it all, who conducts the song of the universe according to His grand design: the God who spoke stars into being, who sustains the cosmos with a thought, cares for one so small yet so important as you.

In this grand finale of Esther 9 - 10, Alex presents the promised day of deliverance from Haman and his schemes. Evil is defeated, the people are saved and justice is upheld, but it is not the end. Esther's story echoes through the generations of the Lord's people, reminding us of the promised home we have yet to see - and the wonderful deliverer who will take us there.

Alex concludes our series in Esther, preaching from Esther 9:1-10:3. In this passage we see the fallout of the counter-edict decreed by Esther and Mordecai - the Jews are able to defend themselves against those who want to kill them. As we finish this incredible book, we consider what it was all about - and the salvation it ultimately points to.

As we continue our series in Esther, Tom Smith preaches from Esther 8:1-17. In this passage we see the fallout of Haman's demise, with Esther again pleading with the King as the consequences of Haman's edict to eradicate the Jews looms. As Tom unpacks this passage, we see the sovereignty of God in full swing - and we consider what it means for us today.

The next page in the songbook of Hebrews is Psalm 22, referenced in Hebrews 2: 5-18, where Rory shows us a harrowing yet beautiful picture of the cross. This Psalm, written so many years before the coming of Christ, presents a truly awe-inspiring account of the suffering saviour. Have you looked at the cross lately? Come and see it like never before.

What stirs your heart? Tom explores this question through the sons of Kora's Psalm 45 and the apostle's letter in Hebrews 1. To know the truth of God's word is a wonderful thing, but to truly feel its weight, depth and wonder makes the word complete. Those who feel weighed down by their cold hearts can find comfort here, for God can warm them all.

As we continue our series in Esther, Thomas preaches from Esther 6:6-7:10. In this passage we see the dramatic turning point of the book play out through the actions of Esther, the pride of Mordecai, the decisions of King Xerxes, and we consider what this story tells us about ourselves today.

As we continue our evening series in Esther, Thomas preaches from Esther 6:1-14. In this passage we see the dramatic turning-point of the book, where the everything seems to turn upside-down from the way it had been going so far. But what - or who - was behind this incredible change? As Thomas unpacks these verses for us, we see the significance of the mundane, the love and power of a God who will always save His people, and what this all means for us today.

Pete gives us a sneak peak at an imminent series in Luke. From Luke 7:1-17 Pete draws out a vivid picture of 2 crowds who meet at the gates of a town called beautiful. One tribe is led by a grieving widow at the head of the funeral procession for her son. The other tribe has at its head the Son of God whose heart goes out to this suffering daughter. At Jesus' command, the grave is defeated and death flees before the author of life.

Rory continues our series in Esther, preaching from Esther 5:1-14. In this passage we see Esther's daring move to approach King Xerxes - her very life is at stake - and her attempt to win the king's favour, as well as the rage of Haman, incensed with the very presence of Mordecai. As Rory unpacks these verses for us, we see the faith Esther, the pride of Haman, and what this all means for us today.

Concluding this series with Hebrews 13:7 – 25, Pete opens up the apostle's final greetings and exhortations. This ‘brief' letter, full of the truth and love of God, ends with true peace of mind: the shepherd who lays His life down now raises his people up for the journey ahead. Come and step into His grace. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 03:02 Peace At Your Last Breath 11:03 Pastors Need Prayer 20:45 The God Who Gives Peace 30:02 The Great Shepherd Of The Sheep 33:32 God Equips His People 43:15 Closing Prayer

As we continue our series in the book of Esther, Joshua preaches from Esther 4:1-17. In this passage we see Mordecai's reaction to the King's edict that all of the Jews are to be wiped out on a single day of the year - utter sorrow and grief - and his subsequent conversation with Esther, where he gives her an ultimatum. As Joshua unpacks these verses for us, we see the nature of Mordecai's actions, the likeness of Esther to the Lord Jesus Christ, and what this all means for us today.

Continuing in Hebrews 13, Pete addresses a matter of spiritual nutrition. What does your heart consume - hollow religious ritual that promises all but benefits none, or the soul-strengthening grace of God? What does your heart produce - obligation and embodiment, or true and wonderful praise? Come and dine at the Lord's table today. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 03:38 A Praising Person 06:35 Eat The Right Food 22:49 Go To The Right Table 33:32 Offer The Right Sacrifices 44:09 Closing Prayer

In July's Mix, Tom takes us to the end of history in Revelation 20: 11 - 21: 5. The life we live, which is at times full of monotony and pain, is only the old order of the world. A new order is coming. At the end of time and beginning of eternity, Jesus shall return and the book of life shall be opened. One question matters: is your life inscribed in its pages? 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Nothing New Under The Sun? 07:50 The Throne 19:18 The Book Of Life 28:19 Making Everything New 37:02 Closing Prayer

Continuing our series in Esther, Pete preaches from Esther 3:1-15. In this passage we see Haman enter centre stage, and he looks to have all the favourite and authority that King Xerxes can give - except for the refusal of one man, Modecai, to bow the knee to him. As Haman becomes obsessed with punishing not only Mordecai but all his people, the Jews, too, he creates a horrendous plan to see the entire Jewish people wiped out in a single day, and sends the decree to all the kingdom and the Citadel - much to their bewilderment. As Pete unpacks these verses, we see the shallowness of Haman's power, the courage of Mordecai, the signs that God is still completely in control, and what this all means for us today.

We have all heard many times that Jesus is the good shepherd - but what makes this good shepherd good? Guest speaker Nathan answers that very question, proving that Christ not only came to die, but to lead. To all the lost sheep of this world: let Him lead you to life. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 02:39 The Shepherd 11:47 Truly Good 35:23 Response 41:24 Closing Prayer

As we continue our series in Esther, Rory preaches from Esther 2:1-23. In this passage we see King Xerxes remember what he did with Vashti, and he accepts the proposal of his advisors: to search the whole kingdom for the most beautiful young women to pick a new queen from. As Rory unpacks these verses for us, we see horror of the preparation process, the faithfulness of Mordecai (who has taken care of Esther since she was a child), a devious plot to kill the king, and how God is silently directing all these events.

'Authority' can be a nasty word for many - but should it be? Looking at Hebrews 13: 1-17, Pete approaches the difficult topic of what good, honourable, responsible leaders look like, and how we should respond to them. Consider the leaders of the church, consider their lives and ways, and walk with them in the Word. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 03:26 Chaff 08:00 Yesterday, Today And Forever 16:47 Good Leadership 34:05 Our Response 54:31 Closing Prayer

As we begin our new series looking at the book of Esther, Rory preaches from Esther 1:1-22. In this passage we see the context for the events of this incredible book - the power, might and wealth of King Xerxes. As Rory introduces the book and unpacks the first chapter, we find that this king's power and authority is on shaky ground, as one act of defiance threatens to unravel the very fabric of the king's society.

From the foundation of Hebrews 13: 5-6, Tom addresses the terrible problem of discontentment that assails us all. The love of money is more than just coins and accounts, but a deep-rooted desire for that which God has not given us. Is Christ sufficient for you? Do you lean on his promises? Free yourself now from the love of money. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 03:37 The Love Of Money 08:44 The Command 23:06 The Promise 42:25 Closing Prayer

As we conclude our series in Why Jesus Came to Die, Tom preaches from Revelation 7:9-17. In this passage we see the great multitude that will stand before God when he comes again, in pure white robes and praising His name. But who are these people? They are from every tribe, tongue and nation - from the farthest reaches, to the next door neighbour. As Tom unpacks these verses for us, we see their real impact on the lives of people at Cornerstone - and we look at what the Cross of Christ really means to each person.

In The Mix of June, Tom asks one of the most important questions in the world: what is the Bible, anyway? Here is the God-breathed word: fully accessible, fully trustworthy, and more than enough for every good work. Come and see the beauty of the greatest book in existence. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 What Is The Bible? 03:08 Perspicuity 21:07 Inerrancy 32:58 Sufficiency 42:36 Closing Prayer

Continuing our series in Why Jesus Came to Die, Alex preaches from Genesis 50:15-26. In this passage we see Joseph's interaction with his devious, envious brothers who beat him and sold him into slavery, only for Joseph, by God's great power and plan, to become second to Pharaoh. You might think Joseph's reaction to his brothers' visit might be fraught with wrath and vengeance. His words to them are indeed shocking, but not because they condemn - they forgive, and point to the God who fulfilled His good plan through it all. As Alex unpacks these verses, we deal with the sensitive but important topic of how God brings the best good out of even the worst evil.

As we continue our series in Why Jesus Came to Die, Josh preaches from Revelation 7:9-12. In this passage we see the great multitude that will stand before the throne of God and proclaim His praises - from every tribe, tongue and nation. We see the people that Jesus won for God, what was needed to make this possible, and what it means for us today.

Romans 10: 8-21 is clear: how can the many peoples of the Earth hear the good news if there are none to reach out? In this unique interview, Ken Brown shares his thoughts as one who has done just that. Though the workers are few in the great harvest of missionary work, Ken's story speaks for itself: the results are beautiful. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 02:40 Missionary Stories 04:27 Ken's Story 37:22 Q+A 53:21 Closing Prayer

Luke 2: 39-52 presents us with a very different angle on Jesus: before he was the man who saved, he was the boy who grew up. Here Tom shows us just how important Jesus' quiet thirty years of pre-ministry life were. Both fully God and fully man, he lived the perfect, sinless life that we could not. How beautiful it is that our God knows what it is to be human. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Readings 04:37 Thirty Years 08:34 Entered Our Humanity 17:04 Redeemed Our Humanity 27:20 Closing Prayer

As we continue our series looking at Why Jesus Came to Die, Thomas Gant preaches from Ezekiel 36:24-28, referencing Titus 2:11-3:8. In this passage we see God's amazing promise to give his people a new heart - something we cannot achieve in our own strength. As Thomas unpacks these verses we see our desperate need, Jesus' solution through his death on the cross, and what it means for us today.

Reinforcing Hebrews 23: 1-4 with Ephesians 5: 22-33, Tom shows us that our triune God is a relational God. Honouring marriage is not exclusively for the ostensibly happy couples while the perpetual bachelors take notes from the stands, but a practical outflowing of worship in which all can participate. No matter our status or stage in life, we can all honour the picture of God's love. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 03:06 Honoured By All 11:18 A Beautiful Verse 17:14 A Challenging Verse 23:56 A Practical Verse 34:33 A Sobering Verse 43:26 A Hopeful Verse 48:16 Closing Prayer

As we continue our series on Why Jesus Came to Die, Thomas preaches from 1 Peter 3:8-18. In this passage we see Peter's charge to all believers - to love each other in mind and body and soul - because Jesus first suffered and died for us, and Thomas unpacks the reasons why all this is possible: at the heart of the gospel is God himself.

As we continue our series in Why Jesus Came to Die, Rory preaches from Romans 8:18-25. In this passage we see that all of creation is groaning through brokenness - but Jesus came to fix this. As Rory unpacks these verses alongside some verses from Isaiah, we see that even though we may have troubles and go through suffering in this life, those who know Jesus have a hope that far outshines even the deepest hardships.

It's important to love yourself...isn't it? Through Hebrews 13: 1-9 and Philippians 4: 10-19, Pete exposes the great lie of self-love and all its self-obsessive, self-absorbed, self-destructive narcissism. Love must not fall inwards. Instead, as Christ radically loves us, so shall we radically love others. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 03:51 Love Yourself? 13:50 The Heart Of The Church 24:36 Ripples 37:11 Gospel Transformation 43:52 Closing Prayer

Continuing in Hebrews 12: 18 - 13: 8, Tom opens up the dining room of the believer's heart. What does it really mean to show Christian hospitality? Who are we to care for and why is it so important? And why does Tom insist on speaking Greek? 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 04:07 The Return 11:34 The What Of Hospitality 14:25 The Who Of Hospitality 28:25 The Why Of Hospitality 39:17 Closing Prayer

Pete continues our series on why Jesus came to die, preaching from Colossians 1:15-23. Pete helps us consider the utter futility of the world, our lives and our futures with everything and everyone slowly trundling to the grave, and asks the question: does the Bible offer any hope? The answer is a resounding ‘yes', and in this passage we see the incredible truths about who Jesus is, and the cosmic impact of what his death on the cross accomplished - bringing together Holy God and sinful man, bringing together the spiritual and earthly realms, and bringing the only way to be saved to each and every one of us, free of charge.

As we continue our new series looking at why Jesus came to die, Pete preaches from Isaiah 53:1-12. This famous passage talks about what Jesus accomplished by dying on the cross, and God's desire behind it. As we consider what these verses mean, Pete unpacks an uncomfortable and remarkable truth: Jesus didn't seek to love us (humans) above all else by dying for us - he sought to love God first. We see why this is significant to who God is - and what it means for us today.

Zooming in on Hebrews 12:18 - 13:8, Tom focuses our attention on a single verse: 'keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters'. Our commitment to God's people is critical to our commitment to God, but how much do we truly act on this? Perhaps it is time to reignite our unity as one living, growing body of Christ. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 06:04 Brotherly Love 12:10 Keep On... 17:13 ...Loving One Another... 26:24 ...As Brothers And Sisters. 44:39 Closing Prayer

Expanding on Hebrews 12 with the help of Exodus 19, Rory takes us on a mountaineering expedition. Before you are two awesome mountains: one of fire and wrath and law, the other of hope and justice and mediation. Both are of God. But which one have you, believer, been called to scale? 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Readings 08:41 Two Mountains 16:44 Mount Sinai 24:58 Mount Zion 33:54 Two Responses 47:29 Closing Prayer

As we begin a new series on ‘Why Jesus came to die', Tom preaches from Romans 3:9-31. In this passage Paul comes to his conclusion about mankind's standing before God - silent, facing his Just wrath, and guilty of sin. However, it doesn't end there - God's salvation has been given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. But how is this possible? As Tom helps us explore these verses further, we see the severity of our condition before a Holy God, how Jesus makes a way for us to be pardoned, and what it means for us today.

He is risen! In this fortuitously timed Easter Mix, Tom shows us the importance of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15. If Christ is not risen, then all our preaching and practising of faith is about as useful as an inflatable hammer. But if He is - and He truly is - then we have a sure and certain hope that we too will be raised with Him in glory. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Mystery Box 08:29 Was It All A Lie? 20:41 Inflatable Hammer 34:30 Closing Prayer

In this special, Pete helps us take a look at what happened to Jesus' disciples following his resurrection and the great commission - we look at their mission, their deaths and their sharing the good news with the world - and we consider what it means in a practical sense for Jesus' followers today.

As we conclude our series in Matthew's gospel, Rory preaches from Matthew 28:1-20. In this passage we take a closer look at the events surrounding Jesus' resurrection, and we consider the simple but world-shattering truth that he has risen. He rose from the dead and gave his followers a mission - the question is, what will you do with the risen Jesus?

As we conclude our series in Matthew's gospel, Rory preaches from Matthew 28:1-20. In this passage we take a closer look at the events surrounding Jesus' resurrection, and we consider the simple but world-shattering truth that he has risen. He rose from the dead and gave his followers a mission - the question is, what will you do with the risen Jesus?

Esau sold God for a bowl of soup. Would we not? Here Pete examines the link between this story in Genesis and the apostle's words in Hebrews 12: 1-17. The race is long and difficult. Shortcuts may appear in the form of deals and compromises. And yet, our Father strengthens our weak knees and lifts us up. Keep pushing forward. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Reading 04:53 The Guitarist Who Sold His Soul 15:10 Strengthen Your Weak Knees 27:30 Make Every Effort To Live In Peace 34:03 Make Every Effort To Be Holy 36:42 Make Every Effort To Be Full Of Grace, Not Bitter 52:20 Closing Prayer

In this next step of our journey through Hebrews, Tom takes a detour through Psalm 95. This oft quoted song is an invitation, both open to all and specific to you. We need not wait until tomorrow to come and meet our creator, saviour and shepherd; we can meet him right now, while today is still called today.