FAC Podcast

In this sermon, Forever Family, Robin Kinstead concludes the series on Romans by highlighting Paul's vision of God's people as one eternal family united in Christ. Drawing from Romans 15–16, he shows how believers—whether Jew or Gentile, male or female, rich or poor—are brought together by the gospel into God's “forever family.” Robin emphasizes that this unity is not based on culture, background, or preference, but on Jesus' saving work. As Paul commends fellow workers and calls for unity, prayer, and mutual encouragement, we are reminded of our purpose: to teach one another the gospel for the glory of Jesus and to live as witnesses of God's eternal household. 5 Questions to Think About: What does it mean for you personally to belong to God's “forever family”? How can you contribute—spiritually and practically—to strengthening unity in your church community? In what ways can you “teach one another the gospel” in your family, friendships, or small groups? How does Paul's example of prayer and generosity challenge the way you pray and give today? What obstacles or divisions might distract you from living in harmony with fellow believers? 3 Takeaways from the Message: We are precious people placed in God's forever family through faith in Jesus. God calls us to teach and encourage one another with the gospel for His glory. Our shared identity in Christ unites us beyond culture, background, or circumstance, giving us hope for eternity together.

In this sermon, Robin Kinstead concludes the Devoted series by exploring what it means to have flourishing families centred on Jesus. Drawing from Genesis 1–2 and Ephesians 5, he reflects on how sin fractures families and communities, but also how Christ restores us into God's forever family. Robin addresses the challenges of fragmentation in society—such as inequality, polarization, and isolation—and emphasizes repentance, faith in Jesus, and sacrificial love as the foundation for strong family and church life. Using both Scripture and recent events, he calls listeners to live as families that flourish when Christ is at the centre. 5 Questions to Think About: In what ways do you see fragmentation (social, cultural, or spiritual) affecting families today? How does centring your family life on Jesus change the way you relate to one another? What does Ephesians 5 teach us about love, sacrifice, and respect in marriage and relationships? How can the church family step in to support those whose families are broken or grieving? What practical steps can you take this week to put Jesus more clearly at the centre of your home or relationships? 3 Key Takeaways: Families flourish when they are centred on Jesus and shaped by his sacrificial love. Sin leads to fragmentation, but repentance and trust in Christ bring restoration and unity. The church family is called to embody God's design for flourishing by loving, serving, and supporting one another as part of his forever family.

In this sermon from Deuteronomy 6:1–9, Matthew 18:1–6, and Psalm 139, Ruth Smith explores God's heart for children and the lessons they teach us about faith. She reminds us that children are known and planned by God, treasured as his gift (Psalm 139:13–16; Psalm 127:3), and entrusted to parents and the wider church to be raised in the knowledge and love of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). Ruth highlights Jesus' teaching that greatness in the kingdom is found in becoming like little children—marked by humility, trust, honesty, and wonder (Matthew 18:1–5). She challenges us to value children as God does, to invest in their growth, and to let their example shape our own childlike faith before our Heavenly Father. 5 Questions to Think About: How do the Scriptures affirm the value and dignity of children (Psalm 139:13–16; Psalm 127:3)? What does Deuteronomy 6:6–9 teach about the responsibility of parents and the wider church in raising children? How does Jesus' call to “become like little children” (Matthew 18:3–4) reshape your view of greatness in God's kingdom? In what ways do children model faith—through trust, authenticity, imitation, or wonder—that you need to relearn? How can you practically invest in the life of a child, even if you are not a parent? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Children are precious to God—they are created, known, and treasured by him (Psalm 139:16). We are called to raise and value children—passing on God's truth and supporting them as part of his family (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). Childlike faith is essential—humility, trust, and wonder before God reflect the true posture of his children (Matthew 18:3–5).

In this sermon titled Cherished Children, Steve Dinning explores what it means to value children in light of God's Word. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6:1–9, Matthew 18:1–6, and Matthew 19:13–15, he highlights the biblical call to raise children in the knowledge and love of God, while also learning from their humility and vulnerability. Steve reminds us that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in humility, dependence, and service, and that children are not only the future of the church but also a vital part of it today. He also connects Jesus' care for children with the biblical mandate to care for the vulnerable—widows, orphans, and foreigners—pointing to foster care and intergenerational support as expressions of God's love in action. 5 Questions to Think About: What does Jesus mean when he says we must become like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3)? How does the vulnerability and humility of children teach us about our relationship with God? In what ways does Jesus' welcome of children (Matthew 19:14) challenge the way we view and value children today? How can we, as a church community, better support families, foster carers, and ministries that care for vulnerable children? What role can you play in teaching and modelling faith for the next generation (Deuteronomy 6:6–7)? 3 Things to Take Away: Humility is greatness – Entering and living in God's kingdom requires humility, like that of a child, depending fully on the Father's grace. Children matter now – Jesus affirms the dignity of children and calls the church to value and learn from them, not just see them as the future. Faith is lived and shared daily – Parents, grandparents, and the whole church community are called to pass on the story of God through teaching, modeling, and everyday life rhythms.

In this sermon from Mark 15:22–39, Mark 16:1–7, and Ephesians 2:1–10, Ruth Smith unpacks the biggest question anyone can ask: What does God have to do with my life? She explains the reality of sin—that we are all spiritually dead and deserving of God's judgment—but also the incredible hope of the gospel: that God, in his great love, makes us alive in Christ by grace through faith. Using clear illustrations, Ruth shows how God's commands are for our good, how Jesus' death and resurrection provide the only rescue from sin and death, and how salvation is a free gift, not earned by works but received by faith. She calls each person to respond personally, reminding us that Jesus is not a footnote in our story but the center of life itself. 5 Questions to Think About: How does Ephesians 2:1–3 describe our condition apart from Christ, and why is this such a serious problem? What do Ruth's illustrations about rules and boundaries teach us about why God gives his commands? How does Jesus' death and resurrection (Mark 15–16) change the way you see your past, present, and future? What does it mean for salvation to be “by grace… not by works” (Ephesians 2:8–9), and how does that shape your view of God? How will you personally respond to the question: What does God have to do with my life? 3 Takeaways from the Message: We are dead in sin without Christ—unable to save ourselves and deserving of judgment (Ephesians 2:1–3). God saves by grace through faith—salvation is his gift, not our achievement (Ephesians 2:8–9). Jesus is life itself—his death and resurrection mean we can have forgiveness, freedom, and eternal hope (Mark 16:6; Ephesians 2:5).

In this sermon from 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10 and Isaiah 12, Peter Lenehan launches a new series on what makes a church effective. He shows how the Thessalonian believers were known everywhere because the Lord's message rang out from them, not for their own reputation but for God's glory. An effective church, Peter explains, has its foundation in God (v.1), engages in work produced by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope (v.3), and shares the gospel with deep conviction, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and accompanied by God's power (vv.4–6, 9–10). Challenging us to move beyond being “benchwarmers,” he calls every believer to find their place of service, guard against burnout, and step out with the gospel so that Christ is made known in our community and beyond. 5 Questions to Think About: How does being “in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 1:1) shape your identity as part of the church? What does it look like in your life for work to flow from faith, labor from love, and endurance from hope (1 Thessalonians 1:3)? Which of the four convictions in verses 9–10 (turning from idols, serving the living God, waiting for Jesus' return, believing he rescues us from wrath) do you most need to strengthen? How might fear of failure cause us to “quench the Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19), and what does it mean to “test everything” instead? Are you actively going out with the gospel in your daily life, or more often waiting for people to come in? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Foundation matters — an effective church is rooted in God, not just activity or reputation (1 Thessalonians 1:1). Faith, love, and hope drive ministry — true gospel work is sustained not by guilt or obligation but by these eternal motivations (1 Thessalonians 1:3). The gospel must go out — with words, conviction, the Spirit, and power—because only then will it ring out to our community and beyond (1 Thessalonians 1:5–10).

In this sermon from Romans 15:23–29 and 16:1–27, Ruth Smith closes our series in Romans by asking the searching question: Do you have the faith to obey God in all things? Drawing from Paul's missionary plans, his appeal for generosity, and his personal greetings, Ruth highlights how obedience flows from genuine faith. She points to Paul's example of raising funds for believers in need, his commendation of faithful co-workers—both men and women like Phoebe, Priscilla, Aquila, and Junia—and his reminder that true faith is not just belief but a life of obedience. Ruth challenges us to consider what it looks like to trust Jesus enough to obey him with our money, our relationships, our speech, our desires, and our daily devotion, reminding us that obedience is our greatest act of worship and the pathway to true freedom in Christ. 5 Questions to Think About: What does Paul's collection for the poor in Jerusalem (Romans 15:25–28) teach us about generosity and obedience with our finances? How does the example of women like Phoebe, Priscilla, and Junia (Romans 16:1–7) challenge or encourage your view of serving in God's mission? In what areas of your life is it hardest to trust Jesus enough to obey him? How do Paul's final words about “the obedience that comes from faith” (Romans 16:26) shape your understanding of the Christian life? Do you see obedience as a burden, or as freedom and worship? How might the Spirit need to reshape your view? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Faith and obedience are inseparable—true trust in Jesus is shown in living for him daily (Romans 1:5; 16:26). Generosity and service are acts of obedience—from financial giving to gospel partnership, God calls us to offer our “first fruits,” not leftovers (Romans 15:25–28). Obedience is worship and freedom—to obey Jesus is not slavery to rules but the joyful path of life as a “slave to righteousness” (Romans 6:18; 16:27).

On Father's Day, Peter Lenehan preaches from Proverbs 3:1–12 and Matthew 6:25–34, reminding us that being devoted dads—and devoted disciples—begins with knowing what it means to be a child of God. Drawing on Jesus' command not to worry but to seek first God's kingdom and righteousness, Peter encourages fathers and all believers to trust in God's provision rather than chasing after temporary things. He challenges dads to place their Christian identity first, then their calling as husbands, and then as fathers, raising children in the training and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). With honesty and encouragement, this sermon points us back to the cross as the ultimate reason we can trust God as our perfect Father who never fails in his care. 5 Questions to Think About: What does Proverbs 3:5–6 teach us about trusting God instead of relying on our own understanding? How does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:25–34 challenge your daily worries and priorities? In what ways do you find yourself chasing after temporary things rather than seeking God's kingdom first? For fathers—how can your Christian identity shape your role as a husband and dad (Ephesians 5:25; 6:4)? How does looking to the cross give you confidence that God has truly “got you covered” in every circumstance? 3 Takeaways from the Message: We are children of God first—our security and identity rest in his provision and love (1 John 3:1). Seek first God's kingdom—when we prioritize his righteousness, he promises to provide what we need (Matthew 6:33). Fatherhood flows from faith—devoted dads (and all believers) lead well when they trust God, live out their Christian identity, and raise children in the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).

In this opening sermon for the World Missions Conference, Warwick de Jersey takes us to Psalm 145, showing how King David's song of praise points us to Jesus—the ultimate singer who invites us into his chorus of mission. David praises God's greatness, faithfulness, compassion, and justice, and Warwick highlights how Jesus fulfills these realities in even greater ways through his death and resurrection. World mission, he reminds us, begins with simply praising God—“blathering” about who he is and what he has done—trusting that God uses our words to draw others to himself. Through personal testimony and practical encouragement, Warwick challenges us to find our “one thing” to rave about God and to join Jesus in his global mission of praise (Psalm 145; Matthew 28:18–20). 5 Questions to Think About: What stands out to you most in Psalm 145 about God's character, and how does it inspire praise? How does seeing Jesus as the ultimate fulfiller of Psalm 145 deepen your understanding of mission? What is the “one thing” about God's work in your life that you can't help but rave about? How can you practice “blathering” about God naturally in everyday conversations? In what ways can you support or partner with others in world mission—through prayer, giving, or going? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Mission begins with praise—telling others what God has done and who he is (Psalm 145:1–7). Jesus fulfills David's song, embodying God's compassion, justice, and salvation for the world (Psalm 145:8–20; Matthew 28:18–20). Every Christian is called to join Christ's chorus—whether by speaking, praying, sending, or going—so that all nations may know and praise the Lord.

In this second week of the World Missions Conference, Warwick de Jersey unpacks Genesis 11:1–9 and Romans 15:1–13 to show God's great mission of reversing Babel through Christ. While human sin led to division, scattering, and hostility at Babel, God's promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:1–3) and its fulfillment in Jesus brings reconciliation and unity. Warwick highlights how the church today—diverse in culture, language, and background—is a living miracle and a foretaste of Revelation 7, where all nations gather in worship. He reminds us that unity in Christ is not achieved by rules or human effort but by God's transforming work in our hearts and minds, shaping us to think like Jesus and to overflow with joy, peace, and hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:5–13). 5 Questions to Think About: How does the story of Babel (Genesis 11:1–9) help us understand the divisions we see in the world today? What does Romans 15:5–7 teach us about the source of true unity in the church? In what ways have you experienced the “miracle” of diverse people being united in Christ? How might asking God for the “mind of Christ” (Romans 15:1–3, 5) change the way you relate to others in the church? What role can you play in God's global mission of gathering all nations under Christ (Genesis 12:3; Revelation 7:9–10)? 3 Takeaways from the Message: Human sin creates division, but God's mission has always been to gather all nations under his blessing (Genesis 11–12). Unity in the church is a miracle of God's Spirit—rooted in Christ's sacrifice and sustained by God's transforming work (Romans 15:5–7). Every local church is a foretaste of the heavenly gathering, and we are called to join God's mission so that all nations may glorify him (Romans 15:9–13; Revelation 7:9–10).

In this sermon, Peter Lenehan explores the tension in Romans 13:1–7 between submitting to governing authorities and remaining faithful to God above all. Drawing on the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3, Peter reminds us that while Christians are called to respect and submit to authorities as instruments established by God, there are limits when obedience would mean denying God or harming others. He unpacks the spectrum of Christian responses—from quiet submission to active engagement—and challenges us to consider when to remain silent and when to speak up. Ultimately, our submission to human authority must flow from our greater submission to Christ, seeking to love our neighbour and overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21; 13:8–10). 5 Questions to Think About: How do Romans 13:1–7 and Daniel 3 together shape our understanding of submission to authorities? In what situations might silence demonstrate faithfulness, and in what situations might speaking up be necessary? How does the command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Romans 13:9–10) guide when civil disobedience may be required? How does Jesus' own submission to unjust authorities challenge the way we think about power and obedience? In your current context—school, workplace, or community—are you more prone to staying quiet when you should speak, or speaking when you should stay quiet? 3 Takeaways from the Message: The default Christian posture toward governing authorities is submission, recognising them as established by God (Romans 13:1–2). Submission is not blind obedience—Christians must never deny God or obey in ways that harm others (Acts 5:29; Romans 13:10). Our ultimate calling is to honour Christ in every decision, whether by being quiet or by speaking up, seeking always to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21).

Romans Chapter 12 - 16: A Shaping Gospel Today's Readings: Leviticus 19:9-18 Romans 13:1-14 In this sermon on Romans 13:1–14 and Leviticus 19:9–18, Steve Dinning explores what it means to live “gospel-shaped Mondays” by being faithful citizens, loving neighbours, and living in light of Christ's return. Using relatable modern-day scenarios, he unpacks Paul's call to submit to governing authorities as established by God (Romans 13:1–7), to fulfil the ongoing debt of love to others as the heart of the law (Romans 13:8–10; Leviticus 19:18), and to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” while rejecting deeds of darkness (Romans 13:11–14). The message challenges believers to let the gospel shape everyday decisions, relationships, and priorities in view of God's mercy. 5 Questions to Think About: 1. How does Romans 13:1–2 challenge your attitude toward government authorities, especially when you disagree with them? 2. What does it mean for you personally to have an “ongoing debt to love one another” (Romans 13:8)? 3. In what situations do you find it most difficult to “love your neighbour as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18; Romans 13:9–10)? 4. How does the reality that “our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed” (Romans 13:11) shape your daily choices? 5. What might it look like for you to “clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 13:14) in a current challenge you face?   3 Things to Take Away: 1. God's sovereignty over authority — All governing powers ultimately derive their authority from God (Romans 13:1–2), and our submission reflects trust in His order. 2. Love as the fulfilment of the law — Every command is summed up in loving your neighbour as yourself (Leviticus 19:18; Romans 13:8–10). 3. Live ready for Christ's return — Put aside deeds of darkness and intentionally live in the light of Jesus' coming day (Romans 13:11–14). Figtree Anglican Church figtree.church

Love for the Illawarra - Community Crisis - 30 March 2025

Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Robin Kinstead Title: Mother's Day Special  Readings: Luke 1:45-55 1 Samuel 2:1-10

Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Robin Kinstead Title: Gentle and Lowly Readings: Micah 6:1-8 Matthew 11:25-30

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Robin Kinstead Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1-8 Title: Beautiful Feet Readings: Habakkuk 1:12 - 2:5  Romans 1:1-17

In this message, Langdon Stewart walks through Romans 12, focusing on the theme of responding to God's mercy with whole-life worship, as emphasized in Romans 12:1. Drawing on biblical exposition and personal experience, Stewart explains key concepts such as being “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2), exercising humility in community (Romans 12:3–8), and demonstrating sincere love in action (Romans 12:9–21). The sermon emphasizes resisting conformity to worldly values and instead embodying the gospel through actions empowered by the Holy Spirit—such as serving others, giving generously, showing mercy, and blessing those who cause harm. The message outlines Romans 12 as a call to live a life that reflects God's mercy through practical obedience and love. Scripture Readings: Deuteronomy 32:34–39 Romans 12:1–21 Reflection Questions: According to Romans 12:1, in what ways can believers present their bodies as a “living sacrifice” in daily life? Are you being shaped more by cultural influences or by the renewing work of God's Word and Spirit? (Romans 12:2) How do you assess your role in the body of Christ—in humility, as Romans 12:3 encourages, or through comparison? What spiritual gifts listed in Romans 12:6–8 might apply to you, and how are they being used for the benefit of the church? Romans 12:14–21 speaks of loving enemies and overcoming evil with good—how might this apply to your relationships this week? Key Takeaways: Romans 12:1–2 presents worship as a holistic, daily commitment to God, not limited to religious rituals or settings. Romans 12:3–8 teaches that all believers have distinct gifts and responsibilities within the church community. Romans 12:9–21 emphasizes sincere love, peacemaking, and trusting God for justice while responding to others with kindness—even in adversity.

In this final sermon of the Romans 9–11 series, A Sharing Gospel, Robin Kinstead explores Paul's passionate hope for the salvation of ethnic Israel and the unity of both Jews and Gentiles under God's mercy. Through vivid imagery of broken pottery, beautiful feet, and now restored branches, Robin challenges us to reflect on our own attitudes—warning against hubris, calling us to humility, and encouraging us to step forward with holy chutzpah. With clear biblical teaching and a heart for mission, this sermon reminds us that God's promises are irrevocable and his mercy extends to all who place their faith in Jesus, the Messiah for both Jew and Gentile. 5 Questions to Think About: What does Paul mean when he says “all Israel will be saved,” and how should that shape our understanding of God's faithfulness? How have pride or spiritual complacency shaped your view of salvation? In what ways do you see yourself as a grafted branch in God's olive tree? How does humility impact the way you share your faith with others? What does boldness (chutzpah) in your walk with Christ look like this week? 3 Takeaways from the Message: God has not rejected Israel — His promises are still active, and a full inclusion is coming. Gentiles are grafted in by grace — not superiority or works, but through faith in Jesus. We are called to mission — to provoke others to faith, both Jews and Gentiles, with humility and courageous love.      

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Peter Lenehan Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1-8 Title: Bad News Readings: Romans 1:18 - 2:4 Romans 3:9-20

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Langdon Stewart Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1-8 Title: But Now... Readings: Psalm 32: 1-11 Romans 3:21 - 4:25

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Shane Dirks Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1-8 Title: Shalom with God Readings: Genesis 3: 17-24 Romans 5: 1-21

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Peter Lenehan Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1-8 Title: Obedient Slaves Readings: Joshua 1:1-9 Romans 6:1-23

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Shane Dirks Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1 - 8 Title: Death Springs to Life!  Readings: Judges 2:6-15 Romans 7:1-25

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Ruth Smith Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1 - 8 Title: Death Springs to Life! Readings: Judges 2:6-15 Romans 7:1-25

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Shane Dirks Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1-8 Title: Free Readings: 1 Chronicles 21:1-17 Romans 8:1-17

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Warwick de Jersey Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 1-9 Title: The Hope of Suffering Readings: Psalm 44:20-26 Romans 8:18-39

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Robin Kinstead Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 9-11 Title: Broken Pottery Readings: Isaiah 29:11-16 Romans 9:11-16

We continue with our sermon series, working our way through the book of Romans and discovering how Paul's letter to the church in Rome presents us with a saving gospel, a sharing gospel, and a shaping gospel. Figtree Anglican Church Speaker: Robin Kinstead Topic: The Book of Romans - Chapters 9-11 Title: Beautiful Feet Readings: Joel 2:28-32 Romans 10:1 - 11:10