Living Rock Podcast

In this message, Debora explores five encounters Jesus had in Bethany—a "certain village" she believes speaks directly to Atherstone—revealing the keys to becoming a place where Christ is gladly welcomed: Martha's generous welcome that makes space for Jesus to minister, Mary's choice to sit at His feet and listen, Jesus raising Lazarus as a demonstration of His power over death, Bethany serving as a refuge where Jesus returned each evening during His intense Jerusalem ministry, and finally, Bethany being the place Jesus chose for His ascension and blessing before promising the Holy Spirit. Through these stories, Debora shows that Bethany became famous not for its scenery but because Jesus was there, and she challenges Atherstone to become a place of deep relationships, genuine welcome, and visible faith where Jesus' presence is cherished and where many will find their home and refuge. As you listen, ask yourself: How can my home, my church, my village become a place where Jesus is welcomed, where His presence is felt, and where people find refuge, rest, and encounter His transforming power?

In this message, William explores Jesus' staggering claim—"I am the light of the world" (John 8:12)—made during the Festival of Tabernacles whilst standing before towering 86-foot-high menorahs, connecting it to both the pillar of fire that guided Israel through the wilderness and Isaiah's prophecy of light for all nations. Through the vivid image of complete darkness in a limestone cave, William reveals that Jesus isn't offering better lighting for the path you're already walking; He's claiming to be the only solution to absolute darkness, and there are only two possible responses to this claim: belief or rejection. As you listen, ask yourself: Where am I actually standing in relation to Jesus—am I walking towards Him, or have I quietly positioned myself where His light cannot reach me?

In this message, Ovi explores Jesus' powerful declaration—"I AM the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:5-7)—revealing that when Jesus uses "I AM," he's claiming the very identity God gave himself to Moses, demonstrating that he is the only path to the Father and the only source of truth about God's grace and character. Through the context of the Last Supper, Ovi shows the three layers of Jesus' statement: he is the way (how we come to God and manner of living), the truth (how we know God and what's real), and the life (what we receive—both spiritual restoration now and eternal life with the Father). As you listen, ask yourself: Do I know who Jesus is, and am I willing to take his hand and follow him, trusting that he walks with me and reveals the Father's loving heart?

In this opening message of the I AM series, Phil introduces all seven "I AM" statements of Jesus from John's Gospel—each one revealing how Jesus brings us life—and then focuses on the first: "I AM the bread of life" (John 6:35). Through the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000, Phil shows how the crowd pursued Jesus for what he could do, missing the deeper truth that he alone satisfies our deepest hunger and thirst, and challenges us to examine the "contender gods" in our lives that demand our devotion but leave us empty. As you listen, ask yourself: Am I truly feeding on Jesus as my spiritual sustenance, or am I nibbling at the table of the world, and will I let all of him consume all of me?

In this message, we explore Jesus' profound declaration, "I AM the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25-26), through the story of Lazarus—a man dead for four days when Jesus arrives seemingly too late, yet speaks him back to life with a single command. Through Martha's faith, Mary's grief, and Lazarus's awakening, this sermon reveals that Jesus doesn't answer our "if only" questions with explanations but with Himself—the one who has conquered death and has the power to awaken what we thought was gone for ever. As you listen, hear Jesus' challenge to you: whether you've drifted from faith, are carrying deep loss, or have declared something in your life dead, I AM the resurrection and the life—and He's calling you to wake up and believe.

Ahead of a special Dedication Sunday, Benj shares about how we are all children of God, how our heavenly father loves us, and how we are all a miracle.

Jenni looks at how Jesus undeniably loves us and how that should impact our month.

Ovi Vlaicu shares on the authority of Jesus as part of our 'Jesus Lord & Saviour' series.

Listen again to this message from David Lyon as we start our summer series "I AM".

In this message, David celebrates the season of growth the church is experiencing—through the appointment of elders and deacons, and a shift in meeting times—and encourages the congregation to embrace what God is building through the image of a house being established by wisdom and understanding, with every room being filled (Proverbs 24:3-4). Drawing on Acts 2:42, Ephesians 4:16, and Philippians 1, David reveals four essential qualities to strengthen during this growth spurt: maintaining a passionate focus on mission and the lost, building deep community through teaching and fellowship, caring for the vulnerable with generosity and mercy, and stepping into growing leadership roles, remembering that deacons are servants full of the Spirit. As you listen, ask yourself: Am I ready to embrace the growth God is bringing to our church, and will I play my part—whether through serving as a deacon, sharing the gospel with those around me, or building community with others?

In this message, Christopher explores what the Bible teaches about deacons—people called to serve the church in practical and essential ways—beginning with Acts 6, where the first deacons were appointed to care for widows and free the apostles to focus on prayer and preaching. Through passages like 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Philippians 1, Christopher reveals that deacons are not a hierarchical leadership but valued team members whose integrity, wisdom, self-control, and solid faith enable the church to function well and grow; crucially, they serve for a season and both men and women can be called to this role. As you listen, consider: Do I have a heart to serve Christ's church in practical, behind-the-scenes ways, and am I willing to lay down my life to help our community grow and flourish?

In this message, William explores what it means to be God's children through the beautiful example of the children among us (Psalm 139:13, Genesis 1:27), revealing three simple truths: children depend on their parents for provision (just as we should depend on God), children believe and trust their parents' words (Proverbs 3:5), and children ask and keep asking without fear or hesitation (Matthew 7). Through Jesus' tender protection of children in Mark 10 and Hannah's dedication of her son Samuel, William shows how Jesus values children deeply and calls us to grow in childlike dependence, trust, and boldness in asking our Heavenly Father. As you listen, reflect on: Am I learning from the children around me what it truly means to be a child of God—to depend on Him, believe His promises, and ask Him boldly for what I need?

In Parts 1 and 2 we saw that Jesus came to reveal the Father and to help us understand the true purpose of God's law. Having considered these things, we now turn to the third reason He came: to show us what life with God is meant to be. In Part 3 we will explore how Jesus demonstrated complete dependence upon the Father, life lived from within, pleasing God from the heart, and joyful confidence in His abundant care.

In this message, Pete traces how God has been speaking life throughout Scripture—from the creation narrative where his words bring existence and order, through the Ten Commandments that establish boundaries and purpose, to Jesus, who speaks life more than anyone and declares in John 6:63, "The spirit alone gives eternal life. The very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life." Through personal stories and biblical examples, Pete shows that speaking life requires both a heart filled with the Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:34) and genuine faith in who Jesus is and what he has done. As you listen, ask yourself: Am I speaking life and hope into those around me—my children, my family, those I meet—or am I allowing negativity and discouragement to steal their joy?

In this message, Tope takes us through the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) to reveal what Jesus really came to teach—not rules and religion, but the kingdom of God and the heart of the Father who gave His word. Through the Beatitudes, the call to be salt and light, and profound teachings on forgiveness, worry, and generosity, Tope shows us that we are kingdom royalty who must learn how to live as the Father intends, with responses (like rejoicing in persecution) that are radically different from the world's way. As you listen, consider: Am I building my life on the solid rock of Jesus' words and actually doing them, and am I willing to let the kingdom reshape how I live at work, in my relationships, and in my daily choices?

In this message, Bolade challenges us to examine the traditions and cultural practices we've inherited, drawing on Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees in Mark 7:1-22, where he exposes how human traditions can replace God's law and distract us from what truly matters. Through personal stories and examples from church life - cooking for new parents, checking on one another, nurturing marriages and children - Bolade reveals how the best traditions are those rooted in God's word and built on the language of love. As you listen, ask yourself: What traditions am I holding onto that might be contradicting God's law, and am I willing to let the Holy Spirit reshape me so that my life and relationships reflect Jesus' character and reflect his kingdom?

In this message, Phil explores the profound moment when Jesus, fully aware of his divine authority and identity, humbles himself to wash his disciples' feet at the Last Supper (John 13:1-17). Through this intimate encounter, Phil reveals that Jesus' action demonstrates two powerful truths: a spiritual washing away of sin through the cross, and a practical example of servant-hearted love that Jesus calls his followers to imitate. As you listen, consider: Do I truly know who I am in Christ, and am I willing to follow Jesus' example of humble service to others, trusting in God's promise to bless those who love and serve one another?

In this second instalment of Seaside Stories, Benj explores the moment Jesus calms a fierce storm on the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:35-41), where experienced fishermen find themselves terrified, convinced they're going to drown—until Jesus speaks and everything becomes still. Through this encounter, Benj reveals two essential questions that sustain us when life's storms shake us: Who is Jesus to me in this moment, and what has he said to me? As you listen, be encouraged that Jesus doesn't promise to remove all trouble from our lives, but he promises to be present with us in it, bringing order to chaos and peace that transcends our circumstances.

In this message, Ovi traces Simon Peter's remarkable journey with Jesus across three pivotal encounters—from the miraculous catch of fish in Luke 5, through Peter's devastating denial in Matthew 26, to his restoration by the sea in John 21—revealing that Jesus meets us not with condemnation but with restoration. Through the profound question "Do you love me?" asked three times over Peter's three denials, Ovi shows how Jesus breaks through our shame, fear, and feelings of unworthiness to call us back to purpose and belonging. As you listen, know that no matter how badly you've failed or how far you've wandered, Jesus is asking you the same question today: if you say yes, your story is not over—restoration is waiting.

In this message, Richard unpacks the often-overlooked story in Matthew 17 where Peter encounters Jesus over a simple tax question, and discovers that Jesus is just as glorious in ordinary conversations as he is on the mountain. Through the miracle of the coin in the fish, Richard reveals that Jesus already knows what we're worried about before we ask, sees opportunities where we see problems, and has already provided what we need before we even recognise the need exists. As you listen, be encouraged that the things occupying your thoughts this week have not caught Jesus off guard—he is already at work, already aware, and already providing.

In this message, Hilary tackles Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees in Luke 11, where he exposes their hypocrisy—clean on the outside but filthy within, focused on outward rules whilst neglecting the condition of their hearts. With grace and truth, Jesus challenges them directly, not to condemn but to set them free, and warns his disciples (and us) that the same seeds of hypocrisy can creep into our own hearts if we're not careful. As you listen, ask yourself: How does my Monday life compare to my Sunday life, and am I willing to let Jesus expose what's hidden in my heart so that I can experience his forgiveness, grace, and transformation?

In this message, Patrick explores the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24) and reveals three profound truths: Jesus meets us in our confusion and opens our understanding through His Word, Jesus reveals himself in the breaking of bread with power and covenant, and Jesus commissions and empowers us to go out as witnesses of the resurrection. As you come to the table today, come with gratitude for Jesus' faithful presence, with faith and expectation in the power of the cross and resurrection, and with commitment to be boldly used by the Holy Spirit to carry the good news into the world.

In this message, David explores Jesus' tender yet profound final encounter with Peter by the seashore (John 21), where the risen Jesus asks the disciple three times: "Do you love me?"—offering restoration, forgiveness, and a fresh commission after Peter's devastating denial. Through Peter's journey from fisherman to apostle to shepherd, David reveals what it means to be loved by Jesus despite our failures, and to respond to that love by caring for His people. As you listen, consider: How is Jesus inviting you to draw near to Him today, and who is He calling you to shepherd and care for in His name?

In this message, William explores what it means that Jesus is truly the Lord over all creation—and how that reality transforms our everyday lives. Drawing on the feeding of the 5,000, walking on water, and healings throughout Mark 6, William shows us how Jesus takes ordinary things, people, and situations and uses them for extraordinary, supernatural purposes. As you listen, consider: What part of your life are you holding back from Jesus, and are you willing to bring that ordinary circumstance to him in faith, trusting that he can do far more than you can ask or imagine?

In this message, Chris explores one of Scripture's most powerful stories of faith tested and restored—the raising of Lazarus (John 11)—and reveals what Jesus is truly like in the midst of our suffering and grief. Through Martha and Mary's struggle with Jesus' delay, Chris shows us that God's timing is not always God's denial, and that Jesus meets us with both resurrection power and tender compassion, weeping with us even as he calls dead things to life. As you listen, ask yourself: Do I need to see God's power, experience his intimate presence in my pain, or am I being called to help others remove the grave clothes that have been binding them?

In this message, Raphael unpacks one of Scripture's most transformative encounters—when Jesus healed the man born blind (John 9) and revealed himself as the great "I Am." Through this powerful story, Raphael shows how Jesus meets us at the point of our greatest need and invites us into a personal relationship with him that's far deeper than religion or rules. As you listen, ask yourself: Where do I need to see Jesus as the light in my life right now—in my relationships, my work, my circumstances—and am I willing to empty myself, obey his word, and experience his transforming presence?

In this message, Benj explores one of Jesus' most transformative encounters on the Sea of Galilee (Luke 5:1-11) and reveals three empty things that Jesus fills: an empty boat given fresh purpose, empty fishermen filled with power, and empty nets overflowing with provision. As you listen, consider which of these resonates with you—perhaps you're wondering how God can use your work and life, or you've been trying hard but need Jesus' power to move forward, or you're waiting for His provision to fill what feels empty. Be encouraged that Jesus loves to fill the empty places in our lives, and when we listen to His voice and obey, we can expect His blessing and provision.

Discover how the Holy Spirit doesn't just visit us, but comes to live with us, empowering us to become more like Jesus every day. Through Hilary's teaching on Jesus' baptism and the healing of the paralysed man (Luke 5:17-26), this message explores how being filled with the Holy Spirit gives us power to overcome temptation, speak God's good news, and bring healing to those around us. As you listen, ask yourself: Am I letting the Holy Spirit fill me to overflowing so that I can go and do good things, help others, and see real transformation happen through God's power at school, work, and in my community?

In this message, Mike explores what it means to truly encounter Jesus through the power of simple, personal testimony. Drawing on the story of the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:29) and other biblical examples—the demon-possessed man, the blind man, and the leper—Mike shows us that sharing our faith doesn't require complicated training or perfect answers; it just requires us to invite others to "come and see" what God has done in our lives. As you listen, ask yourself where your own "cities" are—the people around you who need to hear about Jesus—and prayerfully ask the Holy Spirit to give you boldness and freedom to share both your testimony and your hope, trusting that he will provide the words you need.

In this message, William explores Jesus' encounter with the rich young man - a sincere seeker who asks the right question but struggles with the cost of following Jesus. Through this story, we're challenged to consider what might be competing for lordship in our own lives and to recognise that eternal life is not earned, but received as a gift. This message invites us to surrender fully to Jesus, trusting that what He offers is far greater than anything we might hold onto.

In Part 2, we explore how Jesus came to help us understand God's law—not as something restrictive or condemning, but as something restorative, and pointing us to His compassion. Through His words and actions, Jesus reveals the true purpose of the law and shows how it was always meant to lead us to life in Him.

In this message, David explores the story of the Samaritan woman at the well and the life-changing encounter she has with Jesus. Through this powerful moment, we see how Jesus meets us personally, breaks down barriers, and offers something far deeper than temporary satisfaction - living water that brings eternal life. This message invites us to recognise our own thirst and respond to Jesus, who alone can truly satisfy and transform our lives.

In Part 2, we explore how Jesus came to help us understand God's law—not as something restrictive or condemning, but as something restorative, and pointing us to His compassion. Through His words and actions, Jesus reveals the true purpose of the law and shows how it was always meant to lead us to life in Him.

In this message, Mike explores three encounters from Mark's Gospel - a woman, a man, and a disciple - to uncover how offence can quietly shape our relationship with Jesus. Through these stories, we're challenged not to be offended by who God is, how He works, or what He asks of us, but instead to trust His goodness, timing, and purpose.

In this Easter message, Benj explores the powerful story of Lazarus in John 11; a moment where Jesus stands at the edge of death and calls His friend back to life. Through this account, we see both the deep compassion of Jesus and His authority over sin and death, as well as the invitation for each of us to step out of the “grave clothes” that bind us. This message reminds us that Jesus still calls people by name today - out of darkness, into freedom, and into new life.

In this message, Phil looks at the story of Thomas and his journey from doubt to faith after the resurrection of Jesus. Through this honest and relatable account, we're reminded that Jesus meets us in our questions and invites us to move towards belief. This message encourages us to trust in the risen Christ, even when we cannot see, and to live with confident faith in who He is.

In this Easter message, Ovi Vlaicu reflects on the story of the women approaching Jesus' tomb and the “huge stone” standing in their way. Through this powerful moment, we're reminded that no obstacle, no matter how big, can prevent God's purposes or keep us from His love. This message encourages us to keep moving towards Jesus in faith, trusting that He is able to remove every barrier and bring new life.

In this Easter message, William unpacks the incredible gift at the heart of the gospel — LIFE. Through a simple but powerful framework, we're reminded that God loves us, invites us to receive His free gift, offers true freedom, and brings eternal life through Jesus. This message invites us to respond personally to the risen Jesus and discover the fullness of life that is only found in Him.

In this message, Raphael explores the request of the Greeks in John 12 — “we would like to see Jesus” — and what it reveals about the hunger people still carry today. Through this passage, we're reminded that Jesus is both Saviour and Lord, calling us not only to believe in Him but to follow Him fully. This message challenges us to stay connected to Jesus and to play our part in helping others encounter Him.

In this message, Hilary retells Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, inviting us to see the moment through the eyes of the disciples and the crowd. As expectations rise and questions swirl, we're confronted with the central question: Who is this Jesus? This message helps us see Him more clearly, as King, Saviour, and Lord, and calls us to respond with faith, obedience, and worship.

In this special Mother's Day message, a range of women from Living Rock Church share honest and faith-filled reflections from different stages of motherhood — from early years to grandparenting. Through stories of challenge, growth, grief, and joy, we hear how God meets us in every season and shapes us through the journey of raising and releasing children.

In this message, Ovi explores the story of Zacchaeus to reveal what it truly means for Jesus to be our Saviour. Contrasting Zacchaeus with the rich young ruler, we're reminded that salvation is not earned through good works, but received by grace through a surrendered heart. This message calls us to respond to Jesus today — to let Him in, allow real transformation, and walk in the new life He offers.

In this message, Phil unpacks the story of Zacchaeus and the life-changing moment when Jesus calls him by name. Through this well-known account, we're reminded that salvation is personal, available today, and leads to real transformation. This message invites us to respond to Jesus with repentance, receive a new perspective, and live as people shaped by His grace.

In this message, Andrew looks at the healing ministry of Jesus through the stories of the woman with the issue of blood and Jairus' daughter. These encounters reveal both the compassion and power of Jesus, and show how faith reaches out to receive what God promises. The message also challenges believers today to carry the authority of Jesus and to pray for the sick, trusting the Holy Spirit to bring healing and restoration.

As we continue in our series 'Jesus Lord & Saviour' Phil explores Jesus' encounter with Bartimaeus, the blind beggar who recognised Jesus as the Son of David and cried out for mercy. Through this story, we see what true spiritual vision looks like - faith that calls out to Jesus, casts aside everything else, and chooses to follow Him. This message invites us to consider where we need fresh sight and to respond to Jesus with wholehearted faith.

In this message on International Womens Day, Debora reflects on the life of Mary of Bethany, a woman remembered throughout the Gospels for her devotion to Jesus. Looking at three key moments in Mary's story, we explore what it means to sit at Jesus' feet, bring our pain honestly before Him, and offer our lives in wholehearted worship. This message invites us to consider how we can respond to Jesus with the same surrender and love.  

In this message, Benj explores Jesus' first recorded miracle at the wedding in Cana in John 2. Looking at the cultural context of the story, he reflects on how the miracle points to Jesus as the one who deals with both sin and shame, restoring dignity and identity. The message invites us to consider how the cross frees us from guilt and the deeper shame that can sometimes shape how we see ourselves.

In this message, David looks at the story of Jesus cleansing the leper in Mark 1 and what it reveals about the heart of Jesus. Exploring the theme of compassion throughout the Gospels, he reflects on how Jesus responds to human need and what it means to encounter Him personally. This message invites us to consider Jesus' willingness to meet people in their brokenness and bring restoration.

In this message, Mike reflects on Jesus' parable of the talents and contrasts two responses to Christ through the stories of Mary of Bethany and Judas. He explores what it means to use the life and opportunities God has given us and how offence toward Jesus can shape our response to Him. This message invites us to consider whether we are holding back or pouring our lives out in worship and obedience.

In this message, Phil explores the powerful encounter between Jesus and the sinful woman in Luke 7:36–50, revealing what it truly means for Jesus to be both Lord and Saviour. Through the contrast between Simon the Pharisee and the woman who anointed Jesus' feet, Phil unpacks themes of pride, forgiveness, humility, and extravagant worship. This message reminds us that no one is made unclean by coming to Jesus... instead, Jesus makes the unclean clean.

In this message, we explore how Jesus came to reveal God FULLY — not in fragments or shadows (as they prophets had done), but in Person. We consider how Jesus came to show us that God is not distant or abstract, but is our FATHER, and how His life and ministry proclaim something many of us sometimes struggle to believe: God is FOR US. This isn't just theology - it's revelation meant to be received. As we look again at Jesus, we're invited to see God through the Son's eyes, to lay down distorted images, and to discover the true heart of God toward us.