Cornerstone Church Kingston podcast

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.

How would you pastor a believer in distress? In this look at Hebrews 12: 1-13, Pete confronts the challenges of living as a child of God in a broken world. We all face obstacles in this world; we all suffer; but we are not alone. Our suffering saviour blazed a trail for us, working in the past and present to secure your future. Are you ready to run the race?

Tom continues our evening series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 27:45-66. In this passage we take a closer look at the death and burial of Jesus - we see his amazing power of salvation in the people that come to tend to his body, the paradox of his being numbered with the wicked yet receiving royal treatment, the fear and weakness of the religious leaders, and what all of this means for us today.

Taking us through the entirety of Hebrews 11, Tom addresses a common question: where on Earth does Christian confidence come from? Certainly not from Earth - or us. God has proven himself faithful in millennia past, yesterday, and today. Why not tomorrow? Faith in Him will see us through.

As we continue our series in Matthew's gospel, Tom Smith preaches from Matthew 27:45-56. In this passage we see the death of Jesus, and as Tom unpacks the deep truths of this extraordinary event, we look at what Jesus' death means for the world and for us today.

The Mix of March brings a wealth of encouragements as Tom shows us what it means to be one with Christ. We are not simply followers of Jesus; we are united with the body of the church with Christ as the head. Whether you are the body's hand, its foot, or its left elbow, come and meet Him today.

Pete continues our series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 27:27-54, with Dean also reading Psalm 22:1-18. In this passage we delve deeper into Jesus' crucifixion, and take a closer look at the God-man who died such a cruel, humiliating death, while also fulfilling God's pre-determined plan to save the world through Him.

Last week brought a grave warning, but here in Hebrews 10: 19-39, Pete delivers the apostle's encouragement to those who heed it. To all who feel distant in their relationship with God, who face persecution for speaking truth, the Father offers his almighty hand. Your future is secure; stay the course.

As we continue our evening series in Matthew's gospel, Joshua preaches from Matthew 27:32-44. In this passage we see the crucifixion of Jesus, as he carries - with help from Simon - and is then nailed to the cross he will eventually die on. As Joshua unpacks this passage, we see the physical weight of the cross isn't the only thing Jesus is carrying, and we consider what it means for us today.

Rory continues our evening series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 27:1-31. In this passage we see Jesus stand trial before Pilate, and the verdict reached on his fate: to crucify him. As Rory unpacks this passage of scripture, we see Jesus' utter beauty and innocence, the guilt of the perpetrators, an unexpected but glorious outcome for the accused, and what it all means for us today.

Preaching to us from Hebrews 10: 19-31, Pete delivers a truly terrible warning to God's people. Is it possible for a believer to lose their salvation? What does it mean to commit apostasy? Fearful as the answers may be, the faithful should remember: the Lord's sheep know his voice; they shall never perish.

Psalm 55 and Hebrews 10: 1-25 contain a simple and effective recipe for the best kind of Christian life: just pure God, with no harmful additives or deceptive sweeteners. Pete prepares this recipe for us, showing us three essential, life-giving ingredients that every believer needs in their diet. Let us draw near.

As we continue our series in Matthew's gospel, Chris preaches from Matthew 26:69-27:10. In this passage we see two stories of two men who were very close to Jesus, but who ultimately take two very different paths. As Chris helps us look at the day from both their perspectives, and learn from both their stories, we're faced with the ultimate question: what will you do with your sin?

As we continue our series in Matthew's gospel, Tom Smith preaches from Matthew 26:57-68. In this passage we see Jesus taken before the Chief Priests and the whole Sanhedrin to face the accusations against him. It seems they all have Jesus right where they want him, but in fact it is Jesus who is where he wants to be - standing in the place of rebels as the true King of the universe, ready to face an unjust trial, false accusations and vicious mockery so that God's salvation plan might be fulfilled.

What does it mean to have true repentance and faith? To illustrate, Tom shows us two powerful stories in this month's Mix: one greedy man with all the world against him and Christ ahead of him, and one powerful leader who humbled himself before God. (Featuring special guest Deanicus of Rome's IV Legion.)

Where will you run to? Through Hebrews 10: 1-18, Pete shows us that the sinner cannot flee from the judgement of sin, nor can they justify themselves with the trappings of religion. Where fight and flight both fall short, the courts of Heaven offer a third option: 'Here I am,' says He.

Pete continues our series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 26:36-56. In this passage we see the encounter between Jesus and Judas in the garden of Gethsemane, as Judas comes to betray Jesus. We see the horror of this act of betrayal, the reaction of Jesus' followers, Jesus' surprising words for them all, and what it all means for us today.

Rory continues our series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 26:31-46. In this passage we see Jesus predict the disciple's denial of him, and his intense yet moving time of prayer in the garden of Gethsemene. As Rory unpacks the mental, emotional and spiritual trauma Jesus is going through on his way to the cross, we gaze at his motive for pressing on, his perfect obedience to the Father, and how deep the love of Christ is for his people.

In this look at Hebrews 9: 11-28, Tom gives us a challenge and a comfort. If death is a certainty, and if judgement is unavoidable, what can we do about it? There is one who faced both death and judgement and triumphed over both for our sake. You may die once, but in Him, you may live eternal.

No, we're not masochists! While Christians don't actively seek to be persecuted, it is an uncomfortable reality for Jesus' followers and will continue to be until He comes again. However, even though Christ's followers will face ridicule, mocking and even death for believing in Jesus, the Bible itself tells us so and shows us that even though the cost may be high, the treasure of knowing and belonging to the living God is far, far superior and the hope of heaven more than a balm for the persecuted believer. As we reflect on a visit from a missionary friend working with Christians in a very dangerous place to even be a Christian, Pete unpacks 10 reasons why persecution isn't just an inconvenience - we need it.

This week in our Hebrews journey, Tom takes us through the wondrous truths of chapter 9: 1-14. The old system of atonement merely cleaned the outside, and so God's people needed a greater, grander sacrifice. Come and see how the blood of Christ not only cleanses us from sin, but also offers us true, everlasting joy.

As we continue our series in Matthew's gospel, Rory preaches from Matthew 26:14-30. In this passage we see Jesus celebrating the Passover with his disciples, on the eve of one of them betraying him to death - we see Jesus' sovereignty over the preparations, his awareness of what is about to happen, and we are challenged to examine our own hearts and ask the question: am I right with Jesus?

This new year's Mix brings us a crucial reminder of the character of God. Through the medium of a very helpful catechism, a musical interlude and two bottles of fizzy water, Pete shows us what it really means to know the king who serves, saves and loves His people.

In this Hebrews tangent centring on Exodus 25 - 27, Rory tours the Tabernacle of old. This not-so-simple tent is a bounty of symbolism, offering us a picture of the one who 'tabernacles' with us and makes His home among His people. We can all, finally, come home.

Merry Christmas! This year, through the medium of fateful hats, gravy, and blended sprouts, Tom shows us four stories from the very first Christmas, each with its own message on how we can (and sometimes don't) approach the new king born this day. O come, let us adore Him!

As we celebrate Christmas and reflect on the coming of the Lord Jesus, Tom preaches from Luke 2:1-21. In this passage we see Luke's account of the birth of Jesus - with the journey to Bethlehem for the census, the angel appearing to Mary and the incredible good news proclaimed to her - and the world. As we delve into the details of this extraordinary time in world history, we see how what happened 2000 years ago should prompt one response: to come, behold, and adore.

In Hebrews 8 once more, Tom offers an eye-opening comparison between the old covenant and the new. The People of God in ancient times were often able to know about God, but so seldom capable of truly knowing God. If you really want to know Him, reach deeper than the surface level of your life. Let Him change your heart.

In this powerful look at Hebrews 8, Toms cuts to the 'pith' of the matter. The early Hebrew Christians had a habit of chasing after religious shadows, so comfortable were they in familiar customs, and thus almost missed the glorious reality entirely. This is the same reality you have today. Come and see the real deal.

Beginning with the launchpad of Hebrews 7, Pete shows us the qualifications of Jesus expressed throughout the entire biblical narrative. What is it about Jesus that makes him uniquely capable of representing us before the Father? How can he be both priest and king? And who on Earth is Melchizedek?

Rory continues our series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 26:1-16. In this passage we see the Jewish leaders plotting to kill Jesus, Judas' betrayal of Jesus for a few silver coins, and in-between an amazing scene of a woman pouring very expensive perfume on his head! As Rory unpacks the passage, we see the immense value the woman put on Jesus - showing her love for him - compared with the minute value that Judas puts on him, and we look at the penetrating question: What is Jesus worth to you?

At this high point on the rollercoaster of Hebrews 5: 11 - 6: 20, Pete acquaints us with our assurance. Do we need grand, Pentecostal demonstrations of the Holy Spirit to prove that we are saved? Or are the signs of saving faith so much simpler? God himself took an oath to bring us home; he'll never let us down.

With this challenging yet encouraging look at Hebrews 5:11 - 6:12, Tom asks us to get off the baby food. How is your spiritual growth? Have you solidly grasped the fundamentals of faith and nurtured them into a fruitful life? Here are hard truths, but also great assurances. Come and grow in Christ.

This may be the most important thing you ever hear. Your eternal destiny depends on it. As Pete preaches our next section in Matthew's gospel - Matthew 25:31-46 - we see Jesus describing what will happen when he comes again in His Father's glory, and calls each and every person - you and me - to account for what they have done with their lives. The big question is: will you come to Jesus, or will you go from him?

Bringing God's word to us from Hebrews 4:14 - 5:10, Tom reintroduces us to a saviour who feels as we feel and suffers as we suffer. Our high priest is no tin man: he has known every grief, triumphed over every sin, and now remains our advocate forever. How shall we respond to this depth of feeling? Approach Him with confidence.

Tom Smith continues our series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 25:14-30. In this passage we see the parable of the Talents (sums of money), as Jesus gives another illustration of what the kingdom of God will be like. It can be easy to think that we need to do as much as we can to please God, or to view Him as an unfair ruler, but nothing could be further from the truth - as Christians we serve God in the context of His grace, and are called to be faithful with what he has given us. As Tom unpacks this passage, we look at the actions of the three servants, the master's verdict, and what it all means for us today.

What on Earth is wrong with Earth? In the third instalment of The Mix, Tom addresses this question and brings us to some unpleasant truths. The world is not as it should be; sin through doubt crept in, disrupting our relationship with God and taking us far from him. If only we had a representative to win the war for our souls...

This week we take a break from our evening series in Matthew's gospel, as Tom takes us on a deeper dive of Hebrews 3:1-19, to further develop some thoughts on the practical command to ‘encourage one another daily', in this book of the Bible that was written to Christians. Sin is deceitful and hardens us towards God and towards one-another, which is why it's all the more important that strive to meet together and encourage one another in the faith.

Josh continues our evening series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 25:1-13. In this passage Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins (or bridesmaids, in those days) all of whom are waiting for the bridegroom to arrive, but not all of them are really prepared. As Josh unpacks this passage of scripture, we see how the ten virgins profess to be ready for the bridegroom's arrival, how only half of them are really ready, the consequences of this, and what it all means for us today. How ready are you to meet Jesus?

This is a weary age. Through Hebrews 3: 12 - 4: 16, Pete presents us with one of the most oddly difficult aspects of the Christian's life: rest. Contrary to popular belief, true rest is not idleness, nor is joy found in dreams. There is only one treatment for the weary heart, and one saviour who provides it free of charge.

There is a heart disease affecting our generation. Through Hebrews 3: 1 - 4: 2, Tom shows us the symptoms and underlying cause of this heart condition, characterised by a pervading coldness and hardness that brings insensitivity to God's love. Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your heart to it. Let Him work in you.

Pete continues our evening series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 24:36-51. In this passage we see Jesus explaining to his disciples about how they will know that he has come back, and how they are to be prepared. Although no-one except God the Father knows when Jesus will return, his return will be unmistakable to everyone, and we should all be ready for it. In this passage we see Jesus' illustrations for how we are to be prepared today.

Here is a calling for holy brothers and sisters as Tom brings us this crucial reminder from Hebrews 3: 1 - 6: fix your eyes upon Christ. Jesus is not an addendum to life, or a curiosity to be taken out of the box every Sunday, but the absolute focus of all thought, truth and life. Do as Moses did, and keep Him always in your thoughts.

As we continue our series in Matthew's gospel, Rory preaches from Matthew 24:1-35. In this passage we see Jesus explain to the disciples the destruction of the temple, the signs of the end times, and what it all means for us today.

Pete continues our series through the gospel of Matthew and takes us through the whole of chapter 23. While the temptation to don a religious mask to hide behind might be tempting, we are pointed to the perfect example of Jesus who is never hypocritical.

This month in The Mix, Tom presents us with the reality of a God who is not silent, but a God who has spoken clearly to all of us. Under his law, old cycles of hate and anger are broken, trust is possible again, and the enemies of God can finally reconcile. How wonderful is the law of love!

What is wrong with our world? Through Hebrews 2, Pete shows us how human beings were meant to rule this broken world, not be ruled by it - and yet there is one human being who can do what we cannot. Why? Because of two words that change everything. Would you like to know what they are?

Chris continues our series in Matthew's gospel, preaching from Matthew 22:34-46. In this passage we see Jesus being asked the question ‘what is the greatest commandment' - we see Jesus' response, his own question to the Pharisees, and Chris unpacks what it means for us today.

Strange as it is for us to imagine, the early church sometimes drifted into worshipping angels instead of Christ. But Tom shows us in Hebrews 1:1 - 2:4 that the Son of God is so much greater than even the most magnificent angel. To which of today's inoffensive, nebulous, comfortable idols did God ever say, 'You are my Son'?

As we continue our series in Matthew's gospel, Tom Smith preaches from Matthew 22:23-33. In this passage we see the Sadducees try to trap Jesus with a question, Jesus' amazing response using scripture to back it up, and what it means for us today.

In this new series debut, Pete begins with the unknown writer's powerful opening in Hebrews 1: 1-4. The readers of this letter were in terrible danger of forgetting Christ, latching onto the old covenant with its laws and regulations. Why cling to the shadow when the reality is right there? Come back to Christ: the personal, final redeemer.

In this newest iteration of The Mix, Tom explores the idea of creation. What do we mean when we say "Creator God"? The God of creation is no cold architect from long ago who stepped back from His work, but a loving Father who sustains us every day. We were created to know and glorify Him right now.