Living Rock Podcast

What does it really mean to be led by the Holy Spirit in everyday life? Hilary Dalziel reminds us that being led by the Spirit is not reserved for the “super spiritual” - it's a promise for every child of God.Drawing from key scriptures like John 14:16-18, John 15:5, and Romans 8, Hilary unpacks how the Spirit helps us in our weakness, intercedes for us, and leads us into God's perfect will - even when we feel uncertain or unqualified. Using powerful illustrations from Acts and personal stories, she encourages us to listen, depend, and obey as we grow in childlike faith and resist the cultural pressures that try to shape our decisions.This message is a timely reminder that we're not alone, we're not orphans, and we don't have to figure it all out ourselves. The Holy Spirit is our advocate, our helper, and our guide

What does it mean to be a covenant people? In this message, Benj unpacks the biblical theme of covenant—God's enduring, unbreakable promise to be our God and make us His people. Tracing seven major covenants throughout Scripture—from Eden to Christ—Benj shows how each one points to the ultimate new covenant we now live in, sealed by Jesus' blood and empowered by the Holy Spirit (Hebrews 8:6–13, Ezekiel 36, 2 Corinthians 5:17). At the heart of it all is God's hesed—His relentless, faithful, covenant love. Whether you feel clothed in glory or shame, this message will help you grasp how deeply God loves you, and how fully He's committed to you.

In this message, Simon explores the vision of the river in Ezekiel 47—a trickle flowing from the temple that grows into a mighty, life-giving river. He reminds us that God's Spirit is moving powerfully, even from what might seem like a small beginning. With references to Revelation 22 and Psalm 19, Simon points us to the vastness of God's creation and the intimacy of His care—He is both infinite and personal. Like a master restorer, God is renewing us day by day, giving us new hearts (Ezekiel 36) and transforming our lives through His Spirit (Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 5:17). Whether ankle-deep or swimming in His flow, we are invited to step deeper into His extraordinary river.

What does it mean to have joy that lasts, even in trials? In this message, Raphael explores the extraordinary joy that Jesus promised His followers, a joy not rooted in circumstances but in His abiding presence. Drawing from John 15:11, Hebrews 12:2, Psalm 16:11, and Galatians 5:22, we discover that true joy is found in salvation, strengthened through the Holy Spirit, and sustained by intimacy with God. Whether you're walking through a wilderness or rejoicing on the mountaintop, this message will encourage you to receive the joy Jesus offers—full, complete, and unshakeable.

What does it mean to be a home for God? In this powerful message, Mike unpacks Jesus' promise in John 14:23—that He and the Father will come and make their home in those who love and obey Him. Using the image of a home being bought, renovated, and prepared for a celebration, Mike explores the process of transformation that begins at salvation and continues through sanctification until glorification. With insight from Romans 8 and 1 John 4, he highlights love, obedience, and repentance as key “rooms” the Holy Spirit renovates in our lives. This message is an honest, hope-filled reminder that God hasn't just moved in—He's lovingly shaping us to become like Christ, from the inside out.

In this intro message of our new series “Pray”, Phil and Hilary invite us to rediscover the simplicity and power of prayer—starting with the words Jesus taught His disciples in Matthew 6 and Luke 11. Looking at some of Jesus' most audacious promises, we explore why prayer can often feel like a place of disappointment or duty, and how we can move past that to a real, life-giving connection with our Father. Together we begin learning the Lord's Prayer afresh, with Hilary diving deeper into the phrase “forgive us our debts” and how Jesus has fully paid our spiritual debt so we can live in freedom and forgiveness.

We all go through seasons of waiting—but how we wait matters. In this message, Ovi explores what it means to actively wait on the Lord. Drawing from scripture, personal experience, and stories of biblical heroes, we're reminded that waiting isn't wasted time. It's a place where faith grows, prayers persist, and God prepares us for what's ahead. Be encouraged to wait with hope, with purpose, and with trust in God's perfect timing.

In this message William explores the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 17–18) and its relevance for the church today. Against a backdrop of spiritual compromise and societal comfort, William calls us to a life of consecration, sacrificial worship, and Spirit-filled devotion. With compelling parallels between Elijah's prophetic ministry and the mission of the church, this message challenges us to wield the word of God like a sword, to lay our lives on the altar, and to pray with persistence until the rain comes. A stirring call to be drenched in the Spirit, consumed by fire, and ready for revival.

In this message, David shares from Acts 9:31. He unpacks four key characteristics that marked the early church: peace, strengthening, the fear of the Lord, and the encouragement of the Holy Spirit. He shares how these same qualities can lead to growth and increase in our own context.

In this message David explores what it means to share in the gospel Jesus preached - the gospel of the kingdom (Mark 1:15). Drawing on key scriptures like the Lord's Prayer (“your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven” – Matthew 6:10) and Jesus' instructions to the disciples in Luke 10, David shows that the gospel isn't just about personal salvation; it's about God's rule breaking into every part of life. We're reminded that God is restoring all things through Christ - not just saving individuals, but renewing lives, communities, and even creation.

What does it really mean to call God “Abba”? In this Father's Day message, Ovi Vlaicu brings warmth, honesty, and clarity as he unpacks what it means to know God not just as Lord, but as our loving, present, and personal Father. Whether you've had a great dad, a complicated relationship, or no father figure at all, this message is a reminder that we all have access to the best Father of all—one who never leaves, always loves, and knows us better than we know ourselves. Full of encouragement and connection, this is a powerful call to intimacy with the One who calls us sons and daughters.

Ever feel like you've got nothing to wear? In this message, Stephen Russell takes us on a journey through scripture—from fig leaves in Eden to robes of righteousness—exploring how God clothes us, not just physically but spiritually. With humour and honesty, Stephen reminds us that our shame is covered, our identity is renewed, and we've been given a whole new wardrobe in Christ. From garments of praise to the Spirit's anointing, it's all about choosing to “put on” the things God has provided—and walking in confidence, purpose, and joy.

In this Father's Day message, William, Christopher and Richard share funny stories, honest reflections, and meaningful insights on what it means to be a dad. From exploding nappies and backwards bike tricks to the deep privilege and responsibility of fatherhood, they talk about how being a dad shapes them—and how God's fatherhood shapes us all. Whether you're a dad, a spiritual father, or just someone who wants to invest in the next generation, this episode is full of warmth, wisdom, and encouragement to keep showing up and pointing others to the best Father of all.

How do we make wise, Spirit-led decisions in everyday life? In this message, Seth shares three powerful personal stories and key biblical principles that reveal how the Holy Spirit helps us navigate both big and small choices. H explores the value of obedience, the importance of godly counsel, and the peace that comes from trusting God—even when the path is unclear. This is a practical and inspiring message for anyone seeking to be led by the Spirit in their decision-making.

In this message, Ovi is diving into the real meaning of friendship — something much deeper than just enjoying someone's company.A lot of people misunderstand what true friendship looks like. It's not just about fun and laughter — it's about commitment, sacrifice, and love.Did you know that Jesus actually calls us His friends? In John 15:13-15, He not only gives us that title but also redefines what friendship truly means. Verse 13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.”That's the kind of friendship we're called to — selfless, deep, and rooted in love.

In this message, Mike Shuter unpacks what it means to be part of God's extraordinary kingdom—a kingdom not defined by borders or buildings, but by the rule and reign of Jesus. With references across Scripture, Mike reminds us that the kingdom of God is here, growing, and powerful, and that we, the Church, have been entrusted with its expansion. From healing the sick to loving radically, every part of our lives can reveal the kingdom. This message is both a call to action and a powerful reminder that we are kingdom people—called to seek first His kingdom and see it established wherever we go.

n this opening message of our new series BUILD, Benj starts exploring what strong foundations look like and why they're so important for us in this season. Using Ephesians 2:19-22 as a key scripture for us, Benj unpacks why strong spiritual foundations are essential—both personally and corporately. With Jesus as our cornerstone, we're called to build lives and a church that are holy, unified, Spirit-filled, and ready to grow. This message sets the tone for a season of strengthening, aligning, and preparing for what God wants to build among us.

The gospel doesn't stop with what we are saved FROM. We are not simply saved FROM, but we are also saved FOR. This week we consider the Holy Spirit's role in sanctifying the believer, not just at the point of salvation but progressively as we live out the purpose that God has called us into.

In The Spirit & Me (Pt. 3) – My Counsellor, we explore the Holy Spirit as our divine Counsellor, guiding us with God's wisdom. We consider how the Spirit aligns us with God's eternal plan, empowers us with confidence and purpose in every season, and strengthens us to complete our race. Discover how His counsel transforms uncertainty into clarity and calling into enduring faithfulness.

In this all-age message, Alex and Lisa explore what it means to be connected to the source—God Himself. Using stories from Exodus and Numbers, they highlight how God provides in the midst of testing and challenge, reminding us that prayer connects us to the living water we need. With interactive moments, engaging illustrations, and practical encouragement, this message invites both children and adults to stop grumbling, start praying, and stay connected to the Spirit.

In this message, David Lyon explores the powerful biblical imagery of water and wine—symbols of the Holy Spirit's presence, abundance, and refreshing work in and through the Church. From Eden to Revelation, David traces the flow of living water and new wine through Scripture, revealing God's desire to pour out His Spirit generously on His people. He shares three “superpowers” the Church carries today—imagination, integration, and invitation—and calls us to be open vessels, ready for growth, transformation, and daily outpouring. This is a timely and faith-stirring message for every believer longing to see the Spirit move in extraordinary ways.

In this message, Hilary encourages us to pursue Holy Spirit boldness in the face of fear, uncertainty, and spiritual opposition. Drawing from Acts 3–4, we hear how ordinary disciples like Peter and John did extraordinary things through the power of the Spirit—and how we can do the same today. Whether we're facing challenges, sharing our faith, or loving each other practically, this boldness isn't something we muster up—it's something God gives. Listen in as we're reminded to pray boldly, speak boldly, and love boldly.

Ian reflects on some extraordinary men and women who served our country during the war as part of the 80th anniversary of VE day.

When Jesus told the story of the two types of builder, and said that the wise man builds on rock (Matthew 7:24-27), He was setting the scene for His promise that He would build His House (the church) on Rock (Matthew 16:18) - a solid, secure and unshakeable foundation. So what does that mean for us in practical terms today?  How is the church to be built? What are the essential foundations?  And how can we play our part in what's being built?…

In this message Issy shares her journey getting to know the Holy Spirit and how He has impacted her life.

In this message, Ovi reminds us that every one of us is called to be a witness for Jesus in the world. It's not about how impressive our CV is or how “ready” we feel—because God isn't looking for perfect qualifications or polished abilities. What He desires is our willingness to receive the power of the Holy Spirit. That's what transforms us from ordinary people into extraordinary witnesses.Our faith in God and the power of the Holy Spirit matter far more than any credentials. If I was worth Jesus dying for, then I am certainly worth living for Him.

At the Last Supper (John 13-17), Jesus explained to His disciples that He would soon be leaving and would send His Holy Spirit to be with them.  He described many aspects of the Spirit's ministry, but first and foremost that the Spirit would be with them forever; He would ABIDE (stay close, remain permanently). This wonderful truth is especially relevant because it is precisely what Jesus asks of us: that we abide in Him (John 15).  Therefore, in this message, we consider ways in which the Spirit who abides in us helps us abIde in Christ - and in so doing enables us to be fruitful as we follow Jesus.  

In this all-age Easter message, William explores how everything changes when we see that Jesus is alive. Through the stories of Mary Magdalene, the disciples, and Thomas, we're reminded that the resurrection means we are known, we can have peace, and we can trust—even in the face of doubt and fear. It's a message full of hope, joy, and the life-changing love of Jesus. He makes all things new.

The world sees restoration as repair - bringing something back to how it was originally. God's restoration is about transformation, not just repair. It's not just giving back what was lost—but redeeming it, giving it meaning, and sometimes even replacing it with something greater. In this message Benj looks at how the whole narrative of the Bible is one of restoration. It's a story of a God who loves us so much that he sent his son to restore our relationship with him, to tear down the barrier between us and God and to make all things new. We take a closer look at the story of the woman who pushes through the crown to receive healing, and Jairus' daughter who is raised from the dead, and how Jesus restores them both in different ways. 

In this Easter Sunday message, Stephen Russell looks at the stone that was rolled away—and what it really means for us today. It's not just about the resurrection; it's about the barriers in our own lives that Jesus came to remove. Whether it's shame, guilt, fear, or feeling stuck, this message is a reminder that nothing has to stand between us and God anymore. The stone's been rolled away—freedom is here!

In this message, Ovi unpacks what it means to live an extraordinary life—especially under pressure. We take a closer look at the night Jesus was arrested, a moment filled with emotional intensity and looming pain. In the chaos, Peter lashes out, cutting off the ear of Malchus, a servant of the high priest. But Jesus—fully aware of the suffering ahead—pauses to heal him. Even in the face of betrayal and impending death, Jesus chooses compassion and restoration, extending grace to someone considered an enemy. Through this powerful act, we see what it truly means to be extraordinary under pressure.

During his time on earth, Jesus was ‘God's Address' as a person and also had a residential address in Capernaum where people could find him (Mark 2:1).  God is drawing people to Himself in increasing numbers in our day and they need to know who and where to turn to when this happens. This is why we need to be relaxed and confident in sharing our faith in Jesus so that people can geographically find us, individually and corporately.

The story of the kindness shown by King David to Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9) is amazing for many reasons, not least because it is also a picture for us of how God, our Father invites us to leave a place of 'no pasture' and sit at His table, The King's table, showing us kindness, mercy and faithfulness because of the new covenant we have through the finished work of Jesus.

In this second part of a series of messages about the person of the Holy Spirit and who He is to us; we consider how the Spirit is uniquely able to be My Challenger. He does this in very practical ways, through our Conscience, our Companions, and our Circumstances. In so doing, He helps us to make good choices, embrace change, and shapes our character.  

Jesus calls us to be His witnesses, but we often feel unqualified—too timid, too weary, or unsure if it's really our role. The good news is that He hasn't left us to do this in our own strength. In Acts 1:8, Jesus promises that we will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us, giving us everything we need to boldly share and live out our faith. In this message, Ovi Vlaicu reminds us that we've got the extraordinary power to be all that Jesus has called us to be.

In this message from the Extra-Ordinary series, Stephen Russell unpacks the lives of Elijah and Elisha and their powerful connection to Jesus. As Elijah is taken up in a whirlwind, Elisha receives a double portion of his spirit—a picture of the incredible outpouring of the Holy Spirit available to us today. The miracles Elisha performed point us to Jesus' ministry and His promise that we, too, would do “greater things.”This message encourages us to go beyond simply being anointed or having moments with God. The Holy Spirit doesn't just want to come upon us—He wants to fill us! Through these amazing Old Testament accounts, we're reminded of the power, presence, and purpose we have in Christ.

In this message from our "Extra-Ordinary" series, Andrew Eagle unpacks what it means to grow in the power of the Holy Spirit. Drawing from Scripture, he explores how the Spirit transforms ordinary believers into bold witnesses, equipping them with faith, wisdom, and supernatural strength. This message challenges us to deepen our reliance on the Spirit and step into the extraordinary life God has called us to.

The Lord's Supper is more than just a ritual—it's an invitation to repent, remember, proclaim his return and rejoice in the light of all of this good news! In this message, we dive into Mark 14:22-26 and 1 Corinthians 11:23-33, exploring how repentance is a gift, remembrance is essential, and Christ's return is our hope.This meal calls us to confront our hearts, to receive the cleansing power of forgiveness, and to declare that Jesus is coming again! As we break bread, we proclaim His victory—past, present, and future.Watch now and be encouraged to walk in grace, share your testimony, and rejoice in the promise of Christ's return!

As we launch public Sunday gatherings in Leamington Spa we take a closer look at what the church is, and what kind of church Jesus is building. We focus on 3 pictures of the church - the body of Christ, the House of God and the bride of Christ, taking scripture references from the book of Ephesians.

What does it mean to be a child of God? More than just saved, we are royalty—heirs of the Kingdom, sons and daughters of the King!Inspired by a prophetic word that Atherstone is full of royalty, this message dives into 1 Peter 2:9, Romans 8:17, and Ephesians 1:5, revealing our extraordinary identity in Christ. We are no longer who we once were—we are new creations, called to walk in authority, power, and gratitude for what God has done.Listen now and be encouraged to live boldly, serve humbly, and walk as heirs of the Kingdom!

Moses felt pretty ordinary when God called him at the burning bush to lead His people out of slavery. But when Moses changed his response of ‘I can't' to ‘I can', God used him in remarkable ways to fulfill God's purposes for His chosen people and to present a picture of all that Jesus would later come to do.

Act ch 9 includes a wonderful description of the early church, in the season following the conversion of Paul. Here we read of the church's unity and oneness (despite now being geographically spread out), its peace and strength, its reverence for the Lord, its encouragement by the Holy Spirit, and its consequent increase and multiplication (Acts 9:31).  These fantastic hallmarks are as vital to the church today as they were then, and in this message we explore some of the practical implications and opportunities for us at this time.

Do we sometimes put limits on how we experience God? In this message from the ‘Extra-Ordinary' series, Sam challenges us to step beyond routine faith and embrace the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Using a prophetic picture of an ice cream parlour, she reminds us that while all ice cream has the same base, the flavours are endless—just like the ways God can reveal Himself to us. This message will inspire you to listen more intently, expect more boldly, and open your heart to the extraordinary ways God wants to speak to you.

Today we turn to Romans 8 v 15-17 where believers are variously described as being Gods sons, Gods children, as having received a Spirit of Adoption and finally as God's heirs. We consider the vital role of the Holy Spirit in testifying to our spirit to affirm who we are.

Wilderness times appear all through the bible and in our own lives. Wilderness times are challenging times, but the scriptures have plenty to say to help us and the Spirit is with us to lead us through and out of the wilderness. 

Have you ever wondered why speaking in tongues is so important, or even relevant? Is it just for a few “super spiritual” people, or is it meant for all believers? In this message, Stephen unpacks what the Bible says about this powerful gift of the Holy Spirit.Starting in Acts 2:4—where “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues”—Stephen explores why speaking in tongues is not just an ancient phenomenon but a crucial part of our faith today. He also looks at 1 Corinthians 14:4, where Paul teaches that speaking in tongues edifies the believer, and Mark 16:17, where Jesus Himself said, “These signs will accompany those who believe… they will speak in new tongues.”Through real-life stories, practical insights, and biblical teaching, this message will challenge you to step out in faith and embrace this gift of the Holy Spirit. Whether you've never spoken in tongues before, or want to grow in this gift, this episode will encourage and inspire you.

Life is full of choices—some small and simple, others big and life-changing. In those tough moments, making the right decision can feel overwhelming.All throughout the Bible, people came to Jesus for guidance, asking Him questions and seeking His wisdom. He was the perfect counsellor. But Jesus knew His time on earth was short, so out of His deep love for us, He made sure we wouldn't be left on our own. He asked the Father to send us another Counsellor—someone to help, comfort, and strengthen us every step of the way.John 14:16 (AMP)“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever.”In this message, we'll explore what it means to have the Holy Spirit as our Helper and how we can lean on Him in every decision we make. You're not alone—God has given you the best Counsellor you could ever ask for!Listen today and be encouraged.

The sending out of the apostles from Antioch in Acts ch 13, empowered for the first great missionary journey, is a wonderful example of what can happen when the Holy Spirit is leading and directing things.  But what was it that made this church and its leaders ready to be entrusted with such a great commission?  The answers are found in Acts ch 11, which describes the roots and foundations of this great church, and provides us with a fantastic description of the characteristics and hallmarks the Holy Spirit wants to embed in our own lives at this time.

As we continue in our Extra-Ordinary series this week Mike dives into the powerful relationship between the Holy Spirit and Scripture. We explore how the Spirit works through the Word, guiding us in understanding and discerning God's voice for both general and specific situations. We look at the importance of Scripture as both a foundational anchor and a filter to help us hear the Spirit clearly in our lives. This message will help you gain confidence in your ability to hear God's voice and act in obedience, empowered by the Spirit's presence in your daily walk.

Peace—it's something we all need. For some, it's about finding peace for the first time; for others, it's about returning to it. In today's world, peace is needed in every area of our lives. But here's the good news: peace isn't just something you find when life is easy. It can show up right in the middle of your struggles, in the midst of your stressful days. In this message Ovi shares about how to experience true peace, no matter what you're facing. When we fix our eyes on Jesus, He brings peace even in the middle of life's storms. But when we focus on how big our problems are, peace can feel impossible.

Our daily invitation from The Lord is to Lay Down, Be Still and Stand Strong. Being empty of everything else enables us to be full of the Holy Spirit and His extraordinary life and power overflows from within us!