The City Church

This week's sermon focusses on the themes of divine timing, deliverance, and restoration.Although only four verses (Obadiah 15–18), this passage carries a weighty message: God's judgment is sure, His deliverance is holy, and His restoration is complete. Through vivid imagery and prophetic clarity, we see how God responds to injustice, comforts His people, and fulfills His promises—even when hope feels lost.Whether you're in a season of loss, waiting, or uncertainty, this message will encourage you to trust in the sovereignty of God, find deliverance in worship, and believe for full restoration.

This week, we begin a new series journeying through the book of Obadiah, the smallest book in the Old Testament, yet one packed with powerful messages. In this opening message, we explore how God confronts the pride of the Edomites, calling them—and us—to humility.Drawing from Obadiah 1:1–9, we reflect on the dangers of pride, how it deceives our hearts, and God's call to live differently. Instead of being defined by self-importance or worldly status, we are invited to follow the ultimate example of humility found in Jesus Christ.This message calls us to be a humble people, living not for our own glory but for the glory of God, walking in the freedom and joy that humility brings.

In the final message of our Encounter series, we explore what it means to be sent — empowered by the Holy Spirit to live as bold witnesses to Jesus.Through the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20) and Acts 1:8, we see that being a witness is not a special assignment for the few, but the identity of every believer. We are not called to rely on our own strength or knowledge, but to be filled daily with the Spirit who gives us boldness, power, and words to speak.This sermon also unpacks the tension many of us feel between knowing we're called and feeling ill-equipped. We're reminded that the early church was made up of ordinary people — “uneducated, common men” — yet their lives were marked by boldness and transformation, simply because they had been with Jesus.Whether you feel like a “weak witness” or long to grow in confidence, this message will inspire and challenge you to step into your Spirit-filled identity and live a life that points to Christ.

As part of our Encounter series, this week's sermon explores what it means to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit.Drawing from both Old and New Testament imagery—fire, water, and wind—we're invited to desire more of God's presence, not just as a concept, but as a person to be known. Through Scripture and personal testimony, this message unpacks how the Spirit empowers, purifies, and brings life—helping us to flourish and transform the world around us.Whether you've walked with Jesus for years or are just exploring faith, this is a powerful invitation to be filled again.

We all have a deep desire to be fully known and fully loved. But in a world where we often hide our true selves out of fear of rejection, what does it mean to be truly seen? This sermon explores the incredible truth that God knows every part of us—our struggles, our weaknesses, our joys—and yet, He loves us unconditionally.Drawing from Psalm 139:1-4, John 14:9, and Romans 8:15-16, this message reminds us that we are not alone. God is not distant or disinterested—He is our loving Father who calls us His own.

This special message for Giving Sunday explores what it truly means to be rich towards God. Drawing from Luke 12:13-21, we reflect on Jesus' challenge to avoid placing our security in wealth and instead live generously as an act of worship.Key Themes in This Sermon:• The heart behind generosity in the Kingdom of God• Why financial giving is about trust, not obligation• How a life surrendered to Christ transforms our perspective on money• The joy of aligning our resources with God's missionThis sermon is not just about one special offering—it's a challenge to reorient our hearts to trust Jesus as our provider, rather than seeking security in possessions.If you would like to give financially, you can find out how here: https://www.thecitychurch.org.uk/how-to-give

This sermon marks the final message in our Practicing the Way series. Throughout this journey, we've explored what it means to truly follow Jesus in our daily lives. Today, we examine one of the most challenging yet essential aspects of discipleship: self-denial.Drawing from Luke 9:18-24, we uncover Jesus' call to: • Deny ourselves • Take up our cross daily • Follow Him wholeheartedlyThis message challenges us to move beyond cultural Christianity and embrace a life fully surrendered to Christ. It reminds us that true discipleship is costly, but in losing our lives for Christ's sake, we find true, abundant life.

In this sermon, we explore the dangers of hurry and its impact on our spiritual and emotional well-being. Drawing from Matthew 11:28-30, we reflect on Jesus' invitation to take on His easy yoke and find rest for our souls. Drawing inspiration from John Mark Comer's The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, we discuss how modern life pressures us into relentless busyness and how we can reclaim the intimacy and peace that come from walking at Jesus' pace.

In this message, we explore the importance of community in the life of a believer. Why did Jesus gather disciples instead of going alone? What does it mean to be part of God's family, the church? How can we reflect the love and unity of Christ?Drawing from Mark 1:16–18 & Mark 3:13–19, we see how Jesus called His disciples into relationship and mission—inviting them into a life of belonging, care, and purpose. This sermon challenges us to commit to deeper relationships in the body of Christ, engage in discipleship, and serve the church not just as consumers but as contributors.Stay tuned for the rest of the series, as we continue to unpack the key themes of spiritual formation and practical discipleship.

As we continue our Practicing the Way series, this message explores the importance of establishing a Rule of Life—a framework for spiritual growth that helps us follow Jesus intentionally. Drawing from Matthew 7:24-27, we examine Jesus' teaching on building our lives on the rock of His words.A Rule of Life is not about rigid legalism but about structuring our daily habits to grow in Christlikeness.This series encourages us to reflect on how we can follow Jesus in a deeper, more intentional way. It challenges us to move beyond cultural Christianity and embrace a way of life shaped by our relationship with Christ.Stay tuned for the rest of the series, as we continue to unpack the key themes of spiritual formation and practical discipleship.

This week in our Practising the Way series, we explore the call to do as Jesus did. Following Jesus isn't just about believing—it's about action. Just as an apprentice learns from a master, we are called to continue Christ's work, living out His mission in our daily lives.Drawing from Matthew 28:16–20 and Matthew 4:17–25, we reflect on how Jesus trained His disciples and commissioned them to carry on His mission. What does it mean to truly live as His followers today? How do we take His presence into our workplaces, relationships, and communities?This series encourages us to reflect on how we can follow Jesus in a deeper, more intentional way. It challenges us to move beyond cultural Christianity and embrace a way of life shaped by our relationship with Christ.Stay tuned for the rest of the series, as we continue to unpack the key themes of spiritual formation and practical discipleship.

As we continue our Practising the Way series, we explore the second key goal of apprenticeship to Jesus—becoming like Him. Building on last week's message about being with Jesus, this sermon delves into the process of spiritual formation, highlighting how our habits, relationships, and environments shape us.Drawing from Luke 6:39–40, we examine Jesus' parable of the blind leading the blind and reflect on how the world is constantly forming us, often without us realising it. The message challenges us to be intentional in our discipleship, aligning our lives with Christ through the teachings of Scripture, spiritual disciplines, and community.This series encourages us to reflect on how we can follow Jesus in a deeper, more intentional way. It challenges us to move beyond cultural Christianity and embrace a way of life shaped by our relationship with Christ.Stay tuned for the rest of the series, as we continue to unpack the key themes of spiritual formation and practical discipleship.

As we continue our Practising the Way series, we explore the foundation of all transformation and action – being with Jesus. Drawing from John 15, Carrie explains that abiding (or remaining) in Jesus is the ultimate goal of the Christian life. While fruitfulness and obedience are important, the primary focus should be on intentionally dwelling in God's presence. Transformation and action naturally flow from this place of communion with Him.This series encourages us to reflect on how we can follow Jesus in a deeper, more intentional way. It challenges us to move beyond cultural Christianity and embrace a way of life shaped by our relationship with Christ.The series runs over the next seven weeks, with study materials based on Practicing the Way. Small groups are encouraged to engage with the book and its study guide to deepen their understanding of discipleship. Join one of our Small Groups here: https://www.thecitychurch.org.uk/small-groupsStay tuned for the rest of the series, as we continue to unpack the key themes of spiritual formation and practical discipleship.

This sermon introduces Practising the Way, a new series exploring what it means to live as lifelong apprentices to Jesus. Drawing inspiration from the book Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer, the series focuses on following Jesus in every area of life, growing as disciples, and rediscovering what it means to live out our faith in today's world.In this message, based on Mark 8:34–37, we consider three key challenges from Jesus:Deny yourselfTake up your crossFollow HimThe sermon unpacks the practical meaning of these instructions and highlights the transformation that true discipleship brings. It also examines the importance of surrendering self-interest, prioritising a life centred on Christ, and the value of living as disciples who are identifiable by their way of life.This series encourages us to reflect on how we can follow Jesus in a deeper, more intentional way. It challenges us to move beyond cultural Christianity and embrace a way of life shaped by our relationship with Christ.The series runs over the next seven weeks, with study materials based on Practicing the Way. Small groups are encouraged to engage with the book and its study guide to deepen their understanding of discipleship. Join one of our Small Groups here: https://www.thecitychurch.org.uk/small-groupsStay tuned for the rest of the series, as we continue to unpack the key themes of spiritual formation and practical discipleship.

Starting our Christmas series, we look at the profound truth of the incarnation—God becoming human in Jesus Christ. It is through the incarnation that Jesus Christ saves us from our pit, shows us who God is, and shares with us his status and his Spirit. Come and see how Jesus Christ is the light that shines in the darkness.

In the final part of our series in James, Martin unpacks timeless truths about true wisdom. We delve into themes such as suffering, cheerfulness, sickness and sin, seeing that prayer is the truest expression of wisdom in all seasons of life.

In the final part of our series in James, Martin unpacks timeless truths about true wisdom. We delve into themes such as suffering, cheerfulness, sickness and sin, seeing that prayer is the truest expression of wisdom in all seasons of life.

Discover the profound impact of Jesus Christ in this powerful sermon by guest speaker Glen Scrivener, where we delve into the heart of the Jesus Revolution—the most transformative movement in human history. From his humble beginnings to his extraordinary influence, Jesus' life, death, and resurrection sparked a revolution that continues to shape our understanding of equality, compassion, freedom, and hope.Whether you're curious about faith or seeking to deepen your understanding, this sermon invites you to see Jesus not just as a figure of the past but as the King of a movement that transforms lives today. His revolution began with a cross and continues to change hearts across the world.Glen Scrivener is Director at Speak Life, a fantastic organisation that wants to see both church and world re-evangelised through captivating, Christ-centred proclamation. https://speaklife.org.uk/

Discover the profound impact of Jesus Christ in this powerful sermon by guest speaker Glen Scrivener, where we delve into the heart of the Jesus Revolution—the most transformative movement in human history. From his humble beginnings to his extraordinary influence, Jesus' life, death, and resurrection sparked a revolution that continues to shape our understanding of equality, compassion, freedom, and hope.Whether you're curious about faith or seeking to deepen your understanding, this sermon invites you to see Jesus not just as a figure of the past but as the King of a movement that transforms lives today. His revolution began with a cross and continues to change hearts across the world.Glen Scrivener is Director at Speak Life, a fantastic organisation that wants to see both church and world re-evangelised through captivating, Christ-centred proclamation. https://speaklife.org.uk/

What does it mean to love your neighbour? On our Shoebox Sunday, Jon shared a powerful message on the story of the Good Samaritan. Through questions, stories, and reflection, he challenged us to think beyond proximity and embrace availability in showing kindness and love.

What does it mean to love your neighbour? On our Shoebox Sunday, Jon shared a powerful message on the story of the Good Samaritan. Through questions, stories, and reflection, he challenged us to think beyond proximity and embrace availability in showing kindness and love.

As we walk through passages from James 5:7-12, we are reminded of God's eternal promises and the spiritual strength that grows through patient endurance. From everyday moments of impatience to more profound experiences of suffering, this message encourages us to trust in God's presence and purpose. Discover how true wisdom invites us to embrace a 'long obedience in the same direction', grounded in the hope of Jesus' return and the peace that He offers in all circumstances.

As we walk through passages from James 5:7-12, we are reminded of God's eternal promises and the spiritual strength that grows through patient endurance. From everyday moments of impatience to more profound experiences of suffering, this message encourages us to trust in God's presence and purpose. Discover how true wisdom invites us to embrace a 'long obedience in the same direction', grounded in the hope of Jesus' return and the peace that He offers in all circumstances.

In the fourth part of our sermon series in James, we explore the themes of humility, submission, and practical Christian living. James, the half-brother of Jesus, challenges us to examine our hearts and motives, particularly when it comes to issues like conflict, prayer, and our relationships with the world. How can we root out the causes of quarrels, practice humility, and grow in prayer with a focus on God rather than personal gain?

In the fourth part of our sermon series in James, we explore the themes of humility, submission, and practical Christian living. James, the half-brother of Jesus, challenges us to examine our hearts and motives, particularly when it comes to issues like conflict, prayer, and our relationships with the world. How can we root out the causes of quarrels, practice humility, and grow in prayer with a focus on God rather than personal gain?

In the second part of our True Wisdom series we explore the difference between empty religion and a faith that transforms lives. James 2 challenges us to live out our faith with authenticity, compassion, and mercy—reminding us that faith without works is dead.Through a detailed look at James' letter to the early Christians, we cover the importance of:• Avoiding the dangers of performance-driven religion• Showing no favouritism or partiality in the church• Understanding that mercy triumphs over judgment• Demonstrating our faith through our actions• Creating a healthy, Christ-centred church culture

In the second part of our True Wisdom series we explore the difference between empty religion and a faith that transforms lives. James 2 challenges us to live out our faith with authenticity, compassion, and mercy—reminding us that faith without works is dead.Through a detailed look at James' letter to the early Christians, we cover the importance of:• Avoiding the dangers of performance-driven religion• Showing no favouritism or partiality in the church• Understanding that mercy triumphs over judgment• Demonstrating our faith through our actions• Creating a healthy, Christ-centred church culture

On our International Sunday we were privileged to be joined by Dr. Jonathan Oloyede. In this message he shares his inspiring journey from Islam to Christianity and reflects on the beauty of unity among believers from all nations. Jonathan highlights the significance of coming together as the global Church, embracing diversity, and working towards God's kingdom here on Earth.Be inspired by his call for unity, love, and transformation, not only within the Church but across cities, regions, and nations.

On our International Sunday we were privileged to be joined by Dr. Jonathan Oloyede. In this message he shares his inspiring journey from Islam to Christianity and reflects on the beauty of unity among believers from all nations. Jonathan highlights the significance of coming together as the global Church, embracing diversity, and working towards God's kingdom here on Earth.Be inspired by his call for unity, love, and transformation, not only within the Church but across cities, regions, and nations.

In James chapter 1, we explore how we can find joy in the midst of life's trials and temptations. We learn that God uses our struggles not to punish us, but to refine and strengthen our faith. James challenges us to shift our perspective on suffering, reminding us that trials produce steadfastness and help us grow in spiritual maturity.

In James chapter 1, we explore how we can find joy in the midst of life's trials and temptations. We learn that God uses our struggles not to punish us, but to refine and strengthen our faith. James challenges us to shift our perspective on suffering, reminding us that trials produce steadfastness and help us grow in spiritual maturity.

Join us as we begin our Week of Prayer, learning what it truly means to walk in the Spirit. In this short message, we explore Spirit-filled prayer, guided by the Holy Spirit, as we dive into Ephesians 6. Prayer is not just words but an essential part of a life lived in the Spirit. From praying in all circumstances to allowing the Holy Spirit to shape our prayers, this sermon is a call to deepen our relationship with God through prayer.

Join us as we begin our Week of Prayer, learning what it truly means to walk in the Spirit. In this short message, we explore Spirit-filled prayer, guided by the Holy Spirit, as we dive into Ephesians 6. Prayer is not just words but an essential part of a life lived in the Spirit. From praying in all circumstances to allowing the Holy Spirit to shape our prayers, this sermon is a call to deepen our relationship with God through prayer.

Our vision at The City Church is Inviting Everyone to Encounter Jesus.Drawing from the story of Mary Magdalene at the tomb in John 20, Martin reflects on the importance of personal encounters with Christ as the foundation for sharing the gospel. The message explores obstacles to experiencing Jesus, such as grief, sin, and busyness, and highlights the transformative power of intimacy with Him. The sermon calls for deeper personal engagement with Christ, leading to an empowered mission of sharing His love with others.

Our vision at The City Church is Inviting Everyone to Encounter Jesus.Drawing from the story of Mary Magdalene at the tomb in John 20, Martin reflects on the importance of personal encounters with Christ as the foundation for sharing the gospel. The message explores obstacles to experiencing Jesus, such as grief, sin, and busyness, and highlights the transformative power of intimacy with Him. The sermon calls for deeper personal engagement with Christ, leading to an empowered mission of sharing His love with others.

In this three-part series on prayer, we explore three different prayers found in the Old Testament and examine how they can help us pray biblically and with faith.In part 3 of Let Us Pray, we look at Nehemiah, who, upon hearing about Jerusalem's broken walls, responds with mourning, fasting, and prayer. He confesses his sin and that of his people, acknowledging sin as the root issue. Nehemiah trusts in God's promises and offers himself to be part of the solution, relying on God to guide him as he approaches King Artaxerxes for help.

In this three-part series on prayer, we explore three different prayers found in the Old Testament and examine how they can help us pray biblically and with faith.In part 3 of Let Us Pray, we look at Nehemiah, who, upon hearing about Jerusalem's broken walls, responds with mourning, fasting, and prayer. He confesses his sin and that of his people, acknowledging sin as the root issue. Nehemiah trusts in God's promises and offers himself to be part of the solution, relying on God to guide him as he approaches King Artaxerxes for help.

In this three-part series on prayer, we explore three different prayers found in the Old Testament and examine how they can help us pray biblically and with faith.In part 2 of Let Us Pray, we look at a prayer of ‘Dependance'. We read about Habakkuk, a minor prophet, who is faced with turmoil and voices his frustration to God. We see how Habakkuk goes on a journey of raw honesty into reverent lament and eventual praise. We learn from this story that God invites us to lament honestly to Him, while also trusting His sovereignty.

In this three-part series on prayer, we explore three different prayers found in the Old Testament and examine how they can help us pray biblically and with faith.In part 2 of Let Us Pray, we look at a prayer of ‘Dependance'. We read about Habakkuk, a minor prophet, who is faced with turmoil and voices his frustration to God. We see how Habakkuk goes on a journey of raw honesty into reverent lament and eventual praise. We learn from this story that God invites us to lament honestly to Him, while also trusting His sovereignty.

In this three-part series on prayer, we explore three different prayers found in the Old Testament and examine how they can help us pray biblically and with faith.In the first part, we turn to 2 Kings 19, where the King of Judah receives a threatening letter from a powerful enemy. We see how he brings this daunting problem to the Lord and consider what we can learn from his example.

In this three-part series on prayer, we explore three different prayers found in the Old Testament and examine how they can help us pray biblically and with faith.In the first part, we turn to 2 Kings 19, where the King of Judah receives a threatening letter from a powerful enemy. We see how he brings this daunting problem to the Lord and consider what we can learn from his example.

Many of us struggle with emotional and spiritual imbalances, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life and disconnected from ourselves and God. As disciples of Christ, we often overlook the importance of inner health, leading to burnout, shallow relationships, and a lack of true peace.“The Emotionally Healthy Disciple" offers a transformative opportunity to address these challenges. Based on the work by Pete Scazzero, we can learn how to integrate emotional health into our discipleship journey, leading to a more authentic, vibrant, and fulfilling walk with Christ.In part three of this sermon series, we looked at the principle of 'slowing down for loving union'. In Luke 10:38-42, we find a telling contrast between two sisters, Mary and Martha. Martha was overwhelmed and distracted by her many tasks, while Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet, savouring His presence and listening to His words.To become emotionally healthy disciples, we need to follow Mary's example by simplifying our lives and slowing down. This isn't just about doing less; it's about deepening our relationship with Jesus.

Many of us struggle with emotional and spiritual imbalances, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life and disconnected from ourselves and God. As disciples of Christ, we often overlook the importance of inner health, leading to burnout, shallow relationships, and a lack of true peace.“The Emotionally Healthy Disciple" offers a transformative opportunity to address these challenges. Based on the work by Pete Scazzero, we can learn how to integrate emotional health into our discipleship journey, leading to a more authentic, vibrant, and fulfilling walk with Christ.In part three of this sermon series, we looked at the principle of 'slowing down for loving union'. In Luke 10:38-42, we find a telling contrast between two sisters, Mary and Martha. Martha was overwhelmed and distracted by her many tasks, while Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet, savouring His presence and listening to His words.To become emotionally healthy disciples, we need to follow Mary's example by simplifying our lives and slowing down. This isn't just about doing less; it's about deepening our relationship with Jesus.

Many of us struggle with emotional and spiritual imbalances, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life and disconnected from ourselves and God. As disciples of Christ, we often overlook the importance of inner health, leading to burnout, shallow relationships, and a lack of true peace.“The Emotionally Healthy Disciple" offers a transformative opportunity to address these challenges. Based on the work by Pete Scazzero, we can learn how to integrate emotional health into our discipleship journey, leading to a more authentic, vibrant, and fulfilling walk with Christ.This week, we explored growing as emotionally healthy disciples by leading from our marriage or singleness, focusing on our identity in Christ and recognising our God-given limits. We also discussed practical ways to make our relational status our first ambition and loudest gospel message.

Many of us struggle with emotional and spiritual imbalances, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life and disconnected from ourselves and God. As disciples of Christ, we often overlook the importance of inner health, leading to burnout, shallow relationships, and a lack of true peace.“The Emotionally Healthy Disciple" offers a transformative opportunity to address these challenges. Based on the work by Pete Scazzero, we can learn how to integrate emotional health into our discipleship journey, leading to a more authentic, vibrant, and fulfilling walk with Christ.This week, we explored growing as emotionally healthy disciples by leading from our marriage or singleness, focusing on our identity in Christ and recognising our God-given limits. We also discussed practical ways to make our relational status our first ambition and loudest gospel message.

Many of us struggle with emotional and spiritual imbalances, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life and disconnected from ourselves and God. As disciples of Christ, we often overlook the importance of inner health, leading to burnout, shallow relationships, and a lack of true peace.“The Emotionally Healthy Disciple" offers a transformative opportunity to address these challenges. Based on the work by Pete Scazzero, we can learn how to integrate emotional health into our discipleship journey, leading to a more authentic, vibrant, and fulfilling walk with Christ.In the first part, we look at the need to face our shadow. Everyone has sins, weaknesses and wounds that, whether we realise it or not, have a profound effect on our emotional health and our discipleship to Jesus.

Many of us struggle with emotional and spiritual imbalances, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life and disconnected from ourselves and God. As disciples of Christ, we often overlook the importance of inner health, leading to burnout, shallow relationships, and a lack of true peace.“The Emotionally Healthy Disciple" offers a transformative opportunity to address these challenges. Based on the work by Pete Scazzero, we can learn how to integrate emotional health into our discipleship journey, leading to a more authentic, vibrant, and fulfilling walk with Christ.In the first part, we look at the need to face our shadow. Everyone has sins, weaknesses and wounds that, whether we realise it or not, have a profound effect on our emotional health and our discipleship to Jesus.

1 Timothy was written by the Apostle Paul, who was encouraging his young coworker Timothy who was based in the church in Ephesus.As we look at the final chapter in the book of 1 Timothy, Martin focussed in on verses 11-12. Paul charged Timothy to ‘fight the good fight of faith' - what exactly is this fight? What are the challenges? And how do we engage in the fight?