Hills Church is located in Everton Hills just north of Brisbane, QLD. Hills Church is a modern, contemporary church with the goal of reaching the community for Christ. Each week we will make available a downloadable audio version on the message preached at Hills Church, as well as a video version that can be watched on our website. We believe the Bible is the word of God and value Prayer, Teaching, Worship and Fellowship. For past sermons and video, please visit our website at hillschurch.org.au
7 September 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewWeek 3 of “Sight That Leads to Surrender” (John 9). The man once blind is cast out by people—but sought out by Jesus. His journey lands where all true sight must: faith that bows in worship.PassageJohn 9:35–41 (supporting: Rev 3:20; Luke 19:10; John 4; James 4:6; Heb 13:8).Big IdeaJesus pursues the rejected; humility opens the door; true sight surrenders in worship.Flow / Movements 1. Jesus finds the cast-out (v.35) • “When Jesus heard… he found the man.” • Gospel heartbeat: the Shepherd moves toward the overlooked, excluded, humbled (cf. Samaritan woman, Zacchaeus). • Takeaway: You are not an afterthought to Jesus; he is the Initiator. 2. Humility opens; pride closes (vv.35–37) • “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” / “Who is he, sir? I want to believe.” • Posture matters: pride shuts the door, humility opens it (Rev 3:20; James 4:6). • “Son of Man” (Dan 7): the divine-human King with authority to save and judge. 3. Faith responds with worship (v.38) • “Yes, Lord, I believe”—and he worshiped. • He doesn't get a five-year plan; he gets a Person. Worship shifts eyes from what is unknown to Who is unchanging (Heb 13:8). 4. Sight & judgment clarified (vv.39–41) • “I came… to give sight to the blind and show those who think they see that they are blind.” • Judgment here = revelation/sifting: humble seekers receive light; self-assured “seers” harden into blindness. • Culpable blindness isn't lack of data; it's resistance to Jesus' light.Key Truths • Jesus pursues before we perform. Grace is first-mover. • Availability beats ability. The man's simple, honest need is the doorway to sight. • Worship is faith's first action. Bowing precedes explaining. • Blindness can be religious. Knowing Scripture yet missing its Author is the Pharisaic tragedy.Applications • Trade self-sufficiency for humble dependence. Name a place you've been “holding it together.” Pray, “Jesus, I need You here.” • Practice worship in uncertainty. This week, sing/pray before solving. Let praise precede plans. • Listen to learn, not to win. Shift from criticism to compassion—in family, team, and church conversations. • Welcome the cast-out. Who's on the margins you can actively seek, include, and seat near you? • Keep testimony simple. Before—Jesus—After. Share it with one person; give Jesus the credit.#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
31 August 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewWeek 2 of “Sight That Leads to Surrender” (John 9). After the man born blind is healed, he's hauled before the Pharisees. Grace collides with rigid legalism. Neighbours waffle, leaders divide, parents fear expulsion, and the healed man gives a brave, simple witness: “I was blind, but now I see.”Big IdeaLegalism blinds; relationship with Jesus gives sight. When rules or traditions outrank people, we miss what God is doing. A life truly touched by Jesus speaks with humble courage—even when it costs.PassageJohn 9:13–34 (supporting: Matt 15:8; 2 Tim 3:5; Ezek 36:26; Phil 4:8; Rom 10:9–11).Flow / Movements 1. Sabbath scandal & split (vv.13–16) • “This man is not from God… he works on the Sabbath.” Others: “How could a sinner do this?” - Deep division. Legalism makes us miss mercy. 2. Interrogations & fear (v.17–23) • He says, “He's a prophet.” Leaders summon parents, who dodge from fear of synagogue expulsion. Religion-as-control breeds fear, not faith. 3. Round two: pressure to recant (v.24–29) • “Give glory to God; we know this Jesus is a sinner.” • The man's core testimony: “I don't know… but I know this: I was blind, now I see.” 4. Courage under fire (v.30–34) • He reasons from Scripture/God's character: opening eyes of one born blind is unprecedented—“If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” • They insult him and throw him out. Costly witness; clear glory to God.Key Truths • Legalism blinds. When preferences, methods, or structures outrank people, we can't see the work of God (v.16). • Religion without relationship hardens. Checklists without communion produce pride, hypocrisy, and fear (2 Tim 3:5; Ezek 36:26). • Testimony born of encounter is powerful. You don't need all the answers to witness; you need a real encounter and honest words (v.25). • Courage is contagious. Faithfulness in public can stiffen the spines of others.Applications • Audit the soil, not just the rules. Are we making it easier for people to encounter Jesus—or putting obstacles in the way? (Hospitality gatekeeping.) • Prioritize presence over performance. Time with Jesus before work for Jesus. A full heart overflows; an empty heart resents. • Check motives often. When you serve, ask: Am I seeking recognition, ticking a box, or loving God/people? (Col 3:23) • Keep testimony simple and true. Practice a 60-second version: Before—Jesus—After. Stay humble; don't back down. • Stand graciously when it costs. If truth brings pushback, choose courage with gentleness. Let God handle outcomes. • Guard the community from drift. Celebrate people over policies; keep methods as servants, not masters.#hillschurch #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
24 August 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewWeek 1 of a 3-week mini-series in John 9 (“Sight That Leads to Surrender”). The whole chapter follows a man born blind who receives sight—the first recorded case of congenital blindness healed. Today (John 9:1–12): Jesus sees him, reframes suffering, acts with a strange sign (mud + Siloam), the man obeys, and his changed life becomes a public witness—even when neighbours doubt.Big IdeaJesus doesn't start with blame; He starts with grace. He reframes suffering from “who sinned?” to “how will God's work be revealed?” He initiates, we respond. Obedient faith doesn't earn grace—it activates our participation in it. A transformed life is a compelling (though not always accepted) witness.PassageJohn 9:1–12 (supporting: Matt 5:38–41; Phil 4:8; Rom 6:23; John 9:5; Gen 3/Rom 8 theme—creation groans).Flow / Movements 1. Jesus sees (v.1) “As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man blind from birth.” Grace initiates (prevenient grace). Our stories begin with His seeing, not our striving. 2. Reframing suffering (vv.2–3) Disciples: “Who sinned—this man or his parents?” Jesus: “Neither… this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” Moves us from fault-finding to grace-seeking; from punitive math to redemptive purpose. 3. Urgency & Identity (v.4–5) “Night is coming… While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”In our shadowed places, the Light aims to reveal God's work—not simply explain causes. 4. Strange means, simple obedience (v.6–7) Spit + mud + command: “Go, wash in Siloam (‘Sent').” He went, washed, came back seeing. Principle: Obedient faith doesn't earn grace; it steps into what grace has initiated. 5. Public fallout (vv.8–12)Neighbours debate identity: “Is this the same man?”The man's clear testimony: “The man called Jesus… I went and washed, and now I see.”Not everyone will accept your change. Live the change anyway.Key TruthsNot blame but glory: Jesus redirects from “why me?” to “watch Him.” (v.3)Law fulfilled by love: From “eye for eye” to mercy (Matt 5:38–41).Grace initiates; faith participates: Jesus saw… then the man went. (vv.1,7)Methods may be odd; the Messiah is sure: Don't stumble over the mud.Witness is visible: A changed life will be noticed—and contested.Applications Trade fault-finding for grace-seeking. Catch yourself when assigning blame (to self or others). Ask: “How might God display His work here?”Name your ‘Siloam' step. What simple, practical obedience is Jesus asking this week? (Apology, generosity, reconciliation, serving, confession.) Do it.Practice your 60-second story.Before: “Here's where I was blind.”Jesus: “Here's what He said/did.”After: “Here's what's changed.”Confront prejudice. Where are pride or assumptions limiting your love? Repent; choose mercy. (Phil 4:8—renew your mind.)Stay faithful when fruit is slow. Not all healings are immediate; not all neighbours believe. Keep witnessing through consistent transformation.#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
17 August 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewFinishing John 8 (vv. 48–59), the tension peaks as Jesus answers insults (“Samaritan,” “demon-possessed”) with breathtaking claims: the Father will glorify Him, anyone who keeps His word “will never see death,” Abraham rejoiced to see His day, and—climax—“Before Abraham was, I AM.” The crowd understands: He's claiming the divine name from Exodus 3. They reach for stones. John wants us to grapple with the truth that sets us free: Jesus is not merely a teacher; He is God the Son, the giver of eternal life.Scripture Passage (John 8:48–59, NLT) • vv. 48–51: Accusations fly; Jesus honours the Father and promises: “Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die.” • vv. 52–56: Greater than Abraham—who “rejoiced to see my day.” • vv. 57–59: “You aren't fifty!” → “Before Abraham was born, I AM.” They attempt stoning; His hour has not yet come.Main Points 1. Freedom hinges on the truth about Jesus • Not “good man vs. bad man,” but God or blasphemer. Jesus adopts the divine name (“I AM”)—the self-existent, eternal LORD (Exod 3:14). No safe middle. 2. Life stronger than death • “Never see death” = rescued from ultimate, spiritual death now and bodily death's finality later (resurrection hope). Those who keep His word pass from death to life. 3. Family resemblance over family tree • Ancestry (Abraham) can't save; alignment with Abraham's faith does. Abraham rejoiced at Christ's day; true children rejoice and obey the Son. 4. Glory and judgment belong to the Father • Jesus doesn't self-promote; the Father testifies and glorifies the Son. Rejecting Jesus isn't a neutral stance; it's refusing the Father's witness. 5. Hearing → Obeying → Freedom • Keeping (“obeying”) His word is the pathway where truth becomes lived reality and freedom becomes ongoing, not one-off.Illustrations & Threads • Burning Bush to Temple Courts: The same “I AM” who spoke to Moses now stands in the temple. Light has stepped into our darkness. • Stones vs. Open Hands: The crowd clutches stones; the disciple opens hands to receive truth—and freedom.Application • Decide about Jesus: If He is “I AM,” He has total claim on your worship, trust, and obedience. No halfway. • Keep His Word Daily: Move from hearing to doing—read, meditate, obey one concrete command each day (John 8:31–32). • Freedom Inventory: Where am I resisting His voice (defensiveness, control, hidden sin)? Confess, renounce, invite the Spirit's power. • Rejoice with Abraham: Practice gratitude for Christ's day—name ways the gospel has brought freedom this week and share a brief testimony with someone. • Live Resurrection Now: Face fear, grief, or suffering with John 8:51 in view; pray it over situations that feel “final.”#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
10 August 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewIn John 8:31–47, Jesus tells a group of believing Jews that true discipleship is measured by abiding in His teaching. Only then do we “know the truth,” and only then does the truth set us free. He exposes the slavery of sin, warns how religious pride can deafen us to God's voice, and insists that family resemblance—not ancestry—reveals our true father. Freedom comes through the Son.Sermon NotesIntroductionRecent context: Festival of Shelters → mercy to the woman caught in adultery → “I am the Light of the World.”Today: Jesus presses beyond inspiration to transformation—truth that actually frees.Scripture PassageJohn 8:31–36: Abide in Jesus' word → know the truth → the truth sets you free. Everyone who sins is a slave of sin; the Son sets you free to become family.John 8:37–47: Heritage vs. resemblance—claiming Abraham isn't enough. Refusal to hear truth reveals a different father; those who belong to God gladly hear God's words.Main PointsFreedom has a path: Abide → Know → Be FreeDiscipleship isn't a label; it's remaining in Jesus' teaching until it re-forms our thinking, desires, and habits.Sin enslaves—often while we look religious“Everyone who sins is a slave of sin.” We can sit under sermons and still miss Jesus if we protect cherished sins or prefer comforting lies.The Son makes sons and daughtersLineage can't liberate; only the Son can. Freedom is family language—adoption, not performance.Hearing reveals belonging“Why can't you understand? … you can't even hear me.” Pride, defensiveness, and love of sin harden our hearing. Those who belong to God welcome correction.Illustrations & StoriesCondemnation's dopamine: Like the accusers in John 8, we can get a quiet “hit” from judging others—proof we're still listening to the father of lies.Pastoral confession: A moment of stressed defensiveness led to apologies and restored relationship—an example of truth → confession → freedom.ApplicationAbide in His word: Daily Scripture that you meditate, pray, and obey—not just read.Practice confession: To God (1 John 1:9) and to people you've wronged. Freedom accelerates when truth is spoken aloud.Trade lies for truth: Identify the specific lie you've been believing (about God, yourself, others). Replace it with Jesus' words.Invite examination: Pray, “Jesus, show me the truth about me.” Notice where you're most defensive—that's often where He's freeing you.Walk as family: Receive your identity as a son/daughter; live like the Father you resemble—mercy over judgment, light over darkness.#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
3 August 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewIn John 8:12–30, Jesus declares Himself “the light of the world,” offering to guide us out of spiritual darkness into life. Speaking in the temple courts after showing mercy to the adulterous woman, He affirms His divine identity (“I am who I am”) and contrasts His heavenly origin with the crowd's earthly blindness. Those who follow Him will never walk in darkness, because His truth and the Father's witness illumine the path to eternal life.Sermon Notes • We're now in the last third of Jesus' Galilean ministry, with mounting opposition from religious leaders. • Last week's episode (John 8:1–11) saw Jesus expose hypocrisy, extend mercy to a condemned woman, and call her to “go and sin no more.”Scripture Passage • John 8:12–20• Jesus stands in the temple treasury and announces, “I am the light of the world.”• He defends His divine testimony: the Father Himself bears witness (vv. 14–18). • John 8:21–30• Jesus warns that those who reject Him “will die in their sins” and cannot follow Him to the Father (vv. 21–24).• He reaffirms, “I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me” (vv. 28–29).• Many who heard Him believed.Main Points1. Christ's Provision: The Light of Life • In a festival marked by fading lampstands and pouring water, Jesus claims to be the perpetual, world-wide light that guides us out of darkness (v. 12).2. Divine Identity & Authority • By invoking the Father's testimony, Jesus appeals beyond human standards to the Law's own rule that two witnesses establish truth (vv. 14–18).3. Necessity of Faith & Obedience • Those who refuse to believe remain in darkness and face spiritual death (vv. 21–24). Belief and following Him (“walking in the light”) open the way to life (vv. 12, 30).Illustrations & Stories • Feast of Tabernacles Context: The temple's seven-branched menorah is extinguished at festival's end, but Jesus offers an eternal flame that never goes out. • Burning Bush Connection: Just as God named Himself “I AM” at Sinai, Jesus uses that divine name to assert His deity and to provoke belief or stone-worthy offence.Application • Confess Your Darkness: Identify areas where you've “walked in darkness”—pride, fear, hidden sin—and bring them into Christ's light through confession (1 John 1:7–9). • Walk in His Light Daily: Cultivate rhythms—Scripture meditation, prayer, community—that keep you plugged into Jesus, the source of spiritual illumination. • Bear Witness to His Light: As recipients of Christ's light, reflect it to others by living transparently, extending grace, and pointing people to Jesus.#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
27 July 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewIn John 8:1–11, Jesus confronts a self-righteous trap set by the religious leaders and, through a powerful act of mercy, transforms a public moment of shame into an invitation to new life. By stooping to write in the dust, He exposes hypocrisy, refuses to condemn the guilty woman, and then calls her—and us—into holiness: “Go and sin no more.”Sermon Notes • We're now past two-thirds of Jesus' Galilean ministry, with mounting opposition and multiple failed arrest attempts. Despite threats on His life, Jesus continues to center His mission on mercy and transformation rather than self-defense. Today we see that pattern in John 8. • Scripture Passage • John 8:1–11 (NLT)• Jesus returns early to the temple, where scribes and Pharisees drag in a woman caught in adultery.• They demand He apply Mosaic law—stoning her—but intend to use His answer against Him.• Jesus writes in the dust, then declares, “Let the one who has never sinned cast the first stone.”• Accusers depart one by one. Jesus asks the woman, “Where are your accusers?” She replies, “No one, sir.”• He responds, “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.”Main Points 1. Hypocrisy Exposed • The religious leaders cunningly weaponize the Law while ignoring their own failures. Jesus' challenge—“Who among you is without sin?”—pulls the beam from their own eye. 2. Mercy Extended • Rather than condemn, Jesus offers grace to the guilty. Mercy doesn't excuse sin; it refuses the death sentence while opening the way to new life. 3. Holiness Pursued • True mercy leads to a transformed life. Jesus' parting words, “Go and sin no more,” call the woman (and us) into ongoing repentance and freedom from the sins that harm us and others.Illustrations & Stories • The Trap of Legalism: Imagine orchestrating someone's public shame to prove you're right—Jesus dismantles that trap with startling authority. • Writing in the Dust: While scholars debate what He wrote, the act itself buys time and disarms His accusers—an example of wisdom under pressure.Application • Check Your Rocks: Before we judge others, we must first examine our own hearts. What stones are we ready to throw? • Offer Radical Mercy: Like Jesus, choose forgiveness instead of condemnation, even when someone's sin offends you deeply. • Walk in Grace-Fueled Holiness: Allow mercy to lead you into genuine change. Identify one area where you need to “sin no more” and rely on the Spirit to empower you.#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
20 July 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
13 July 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveOverviewIn John 7:1–24, Jesus stays in Galilee despite family pressure to go to Judea for the Festival of Shelters. His brothers mock his messianic claims, and the religious leaders plot his death. Jesus slips into the festival quietly, then teaches boldly in the temple, challenging both popular misconceptions and legalistic hypocrisy. He warns against superficial judgment and calls for a discerning look “beneath the surface.”Sermon Notes • Recap of John series: six months in Galilee (feeding 5,000, walking on water, “I am the bread of life”). • Many disciples fell away (John 6:60–71); Peter's confession (“To whom would we go?”) set the tone for wholehearted follow-through. • Today: chapter 7, “Trouble – Part 1,” focusing on mounting opposition from family, the crowd, and religious authorities. • Scripture Passage • John 7:1–10: Family skepticism—brothers urge Jesus to seek fame in Jerusalem; Jesus refuses, pointing out that the world hates him because he exposes its sin. • John 7:14–24: Mid-festival, Jesus teaches in the temple; crowd astonished at his authority; he contrasts truth-seeking and self-seeking motives, rebukes their Sabbath-law hypocrisy, and urges “stop judging by mere appearances, but judge correctly.”Main Points 1. Opposition from Family & World • Jesus' own brothers don't believe (v 5–7); the “world” (festival crowd) hates the truth about sin (v 7–10). 2. Discern True Authority • A God-sent teacher speaks truth to convicts the heart, not just pleases the crowd (v 16–18). • Authentic ministry seeks God's glory, not self-glory. 3. Judge Beneath the Surface • Legalistic enforcement (e.g., Sabbath laws) can hide self-righteous pride (v 19–24). • Jesus calls us to discern heart-motives, not merely outward compliance. • Illustrations & Stories • Festival Tension: Imagine navigating Jerusalem crowds amid threats on your life—Jesus' courage in teaching under pressure. • Youth Leader Story: A new believer, Troy, faced condemnation for imperfect attendance and dress, while his inner transformation went largely unseen—highlighting the danger of focusing on appearances over heart change.Application • When Truth Offends: Notice where you resist honest conviction; embracing Jesus on his terms may conflict with family, culture, or personal comfort. • Discern Teachers & Messages: Does this teaching seek God's glory by calling you to heart-change, or does it pander to what feels good? • Cultivate “Beneath the Surface” Vision: In your relationships and church life, look for genuine fruit of the Spirit rather than mere outward conformity.ClosingPastor Nathan led a prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts, strengthen authentic unity, and empower us to live out justice, mercy, and love—“more of You and less of us.” • Resources & Links • Bible Passage: John 7:1–24 (NLT) • John Journals: Available in the foyer for note-taking#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
6th July 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/giveSermon overviewIn this sermon from John 6:60–71, Pastor Nathan concludes the “bread of life” discourse. After feeding the 5,000 and walking on water, Jesus' teaching about eating His flesh and drinking His blood provokes offense and desertion among many followers. Yet Peter's bold confession—“Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of eternal life”—models wholehearted commitment. We're challenged to follow Jesus on His terms, not ours, fully surrendering every part of our lives to the true Bread from heaven.Sermon NotesIntroductionPastor Nathan situates us in the ongoing John series (running through Easter), noting the heavy travel between Galilee, Jerusalem, and beyond. Crowds have witnessed two major miracles—feeding 5,000 on the mountainside and Jesus walking on the sea—so expectations for a deliverer are high. Last week ended with Jesus' declaration, “I am the true bread that came down from heaven,” setting the stage for today's difficult teaching and its fallout.Scripture PassageJohn 6:60–71 (NLT)Main PointsHard Teaching Reveals True DisciplesJesus' call to “eat my flesh and drink my blood” shocks many into desertion, exposing shallow faith based on signs rather than the Savior Himself.Dependence on the Spirit“The Spirit alone gives life” (v63); human effort and intellect cannot bridge the gap—only divine enabling draws us to Christ.Wholehearted CommitmentPeter's confession (“Lord, to whom would we go?”) models surrender: recognizing Jesus as the sole source of life and truth, even when His demands are hard.Illustrations & StoriesMiracle Recap: Feeding the 5,000, followed by the storm-tossed crossing and Jesus walking on water.“I AM” Statements: Jesus layers heavy claims—Son of Man, heavenly origin, bread of life—to press His identity and mission.Missionary Story: William Cohen in 19th-century India resisted renouncing Christ under threat, declaring, “Though none go with me, still I will follow.” His martyrdom ignited widespread faith.ApplicationExamine Your Motives: Are you following Jesus for convenience or for His character and promises, even when “His terms” conflict with your comfort?Surrender Control: Identify areas—wealth, opinions, relationships—where you cling to “your way” rather than God's way.Embrace the Spirit's Work: Trust the Holy Spirit to equip you for the hard demands of discipleship; human striving falls short.Commit Anew: Like Peter, affirm “To whom would we go?” and resolve to follow Jesus without reserve, regardless of cost.ClosingPastor Nathan invited the congregation to respond by singing “Christ Is Enough” and the hymn “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” making a communal commitment to stick with Christ through every trial and teaching challenge.Resources & LinksBible Passage: John 6:60–71 (NLT)Next Steps: Reflect on where you've made Jesus a “hobby” rather than Lord; journal prayerfully about areas needing full surrender.#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
29th June 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
22nd June 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
15th June 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
8 June 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
1 June 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
by Ps. Nathan Bell on the 25 May 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
18th May 2025Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
11th May 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
May the 4th 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
27th April 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
20th April 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
13th April 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
6th April 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
30th March 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
23rd March 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
16 March 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch #hillschurchsermon
9th March 2025Due to the extreme weather conditions that affected South East Queensland over the weekend of the 9th of March 2025, our weekly church service was cancelled and Ps. Nathan's message was pre-recorded.Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/JesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #thegospelofjohn #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
2nd March 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
23rd February 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
16th February 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
9th February 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
2nd February 2025Find out more about Jesushttps://hillschurch.org.au/jesusFind the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha.https://hillschurch.org.au/alphaCan we pray for you? Request prayer.https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button.To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link belowhttps://hillschurch.org.au/give#hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
26th January 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
19th January 2025 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
12th January 2025 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
5th January 2025 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/Jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
29th December 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
25th December 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
22nd December 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
15th December 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
8th December 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
1st December 2024 Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/Jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
24th November 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
17th November 2024. ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
3rd November 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
20th October 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
13th October 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
6th October 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
29th September 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
22nd September 2024 ______________________ Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give #hillschurch #beencouraged #nathanbell #evertonhills #brisbanechurch #brisbane #wesleyanmethodistchurch
15th September 2024 Find out more about Jesus https://hillschurch.org.au/jesus Find the answers to life's biggest questions. Try Alpha. https://hillschurch.org.au/alpha Let us know you are watching by filling out our online 'Connections' form. https://hillschurch.org.au/online/ Can we pray for you? Request prayer. https://hillschurch.org.au/ and click 'Prayer Request' Button. To give/tithe to the work of Hills Church, follow the link below https://hillschurch.org.au/give
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