West Kilbride Parish Church

In the second in our series about being connected, we look at our relationships with each other. We think about how we are not meant to be alone - but are made in the image of God for relationship. As the Godhead is in relationship and is love; so we are to be in relationship with each other and to love. First preached: 25th May 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this series, we are thinking about our relationships and our connections. In this introduction to this series, we think of the most important connection of all - our connection with Jesus. Do we love Jesus more than anyone and anything else? If we do, he calls us to follow him. First preached: 18th May 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

We were delighted to have Mark Fleming with us for National Sports Sunday. Mark is the National Director for Sports Chaplaincy in Scotland. In this sermon, Mark speaks from Matthew 5 about being salt and light. First preached: 11th May 2025. Speaker: Mark Fleming

In this Sunday Evening sermon, we think about the basics of the gospel and what is most important in our lives - that Jesus died and rose again. First preached: 4th May 225. Speaker: James McNay.

This is our final sermon in Matthew's Gospel. Though Jesus has completed everything that he has to do through his death and resurrection, the story has not ended. Because Jesus gives us a commission to 'Go and make disciples of all nations baptising them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit'. First preached: 4th May 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we continue our series in Matthew's Gospel and consider the empty tomb. The women who go to the tomb early on the Sunday morning find it empty - and then meet with the risen Jesus. The guards fall into a faint when they see the angel of the Lord and the stone rolled away. After speaking to the priests, they accept a bribe and spread the rumour that Jesus' body was stolen by the disciples. We are therefore confronted with the empty tomb - and we have to  decide for ourselves what happened as we weigh up the evidence. First preached: 27th April 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

Throughout Holy Week in 2025, we travelled through Matthew 27 as Jesus went to the cross. In this sermon, Jesus is crucified and buried. We think of what this signifies and means for us as sinful humanity.   First preached: 18th April 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

Throughout Holy Week in 2025, we travelled through Matthew 27 as Jesus went to the cross. In this sermon, we think of the mockery that the soldiers show Jesus - despite Jesus being the very Son of God and the Saviour that we need. First preached: 17th April 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

Throughout Holy Week in 2025, we travelled through Matthew 27 as Jesus went to the cross. In this sermon, we think about the choice the crowd made to release Barabbas and not Jesus - and how the innocent took the place of the guilty. First preached: 16th April 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

Throughout Holy Week in 2025, we travelled through Matthew 27 as Jesus went to the cross. In this sermon, we think about the dilemma facing Pontius Pilate who clearly knows that Jesus is innocent. First preached: 15th April 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

Throughout Holy Week in 2025, we travelled through Matthew 27 as Jesus went to the cross. In this sermon, we think about the plight of Judas Iscariot. First preached: 14th April 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

We were delighted to have Rev. Ross Mitchell preaching on Palm Sunday! Here is his message from Matthew 21: 1-11. First preached: 13th April 2025. Speaker: Ross Mitchell.

In this sermon, we see Jesus being falsely accused and condemned by the High Priest and the Council. The priests and elders were unable to see beyond their own power - and saw Jesus as an inconvenience and someone to be got rid of at any cost. We think about how we are to stand for truth - even when it is inconvenient - and how much Jesus went through, just for us. First preached: 30th March 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we think about Jesus being betrayed by Judas. We note how Jesus' demeanour has changed from agony to peace as he centres himself in the Father's will. And we see an example for us in prayer. And we see how amazing it is that Jesus is willing to go through betrayal and desertion as he goes to the cross - something that only he can do - and him alone. First preached: 23rd March 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we consider Matthew 26: 36-46 and Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. We think about the agonies that Jesus went through and his temptation to not go through with the cross. But we see how he submits himself to his Father's will and says 'Your will be done'. First preached: 16th March 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we hear of Jesus predicting that all the disciples will desert him before he goes to the cross. We see how Jesus sees this as a fulfilment of Scripture and also the disciples vociferous denials that they will do such a thing. We reflect on how though the disciples are well-meaning - that they are also human and cannot do what they want to do - something Paul reflects in Romans 7. Despite this, Jesus also gives the disciples encouragement that after he is risen, he will meet them again at Galilee - therefore there is hope of forgiveness and reconciliation for the disciples. First preached: 9th March 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this Evening Service reflection and as we were celebrating Communion, we focused on the Last Supper from John's gospel. We asked the question as to why it was so different from the version in the other three gospels and wondered at the amazing example Jesus shows in washing the disciples feet. First preached: 2nd March 2025. Speaker: James McNay

In this sermon, we think about how Jesus chose the Passover Meal to be his 'last supper' and how through taking the bread and wine he points towards the cross and the resurrection. First preached: 2nd March 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

We continue our series in Matthew's gospel, and we read of Jesus being anointed with expensive perfume at Bethany. In this sermon, we see Mary's great act of devotion sandwiched between the chief priests plotting to kill Jesus and Judas plotting to betray Jesus. And we ask the question - which is the bigger waste? The perfume poured over Jesus head or the three years that Judas has spent with Jesus which hasn't softened his heart. Hopefully we see that Mary's act of great love for Jesus is not a waste - and that we too ought to love Jesus wholeheartedly. First preached: 16th February 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we look at Jesus final teaching on the end times and the separation of the sheep and the goats. We think of the consequences of rejecting Jesus by not showing the fruit that shows we are a true disciple but also the glorious inheritance of the kingdom for those who trust in Jesus and walk with him. First preached: 9th February 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this Sunday Evening sermon, we think about the new life that we have in Christ. And we think also about having a heavenly perspective that is fully focused on Christ - who is our all in all. First preached: 2nd February 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

We were delighted to have Paul Algeo from Blythswood Care with us sharing about the work of Blythswood and from James 2: 14-26 - Faith and Works. First preached: 2nd February 2025. Speaker: Paul Algeo.

In this sermon on Matthew 25: 14-30, we consider the Parable of the Three Servants (perhaps more commonly recognised as the Parable of the Talents) as Jesus continues his teaching on the End Times. We think about being ready - but also the need to be prepared and making sure that we are. This sermon was preached on the Sunday after Storm Eowyn and so the illustration of the Red Alert which appeared on smartphones throughout the Central Belt of Scotland is used. First preached: 26th January 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon from Matthew 25: 1-13 we resume our study in Matthew's Gospel looking at the Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids. This parable is part of Jesus' teaching about the end times as he comes towards the end of his earthly life. In this parable, he encourages the disciples to be ready and to be prepared - and the dire consequences if they aren't. Similarly, we are encouraged to be ready and to be wise - and to be locked in with Jesus for eternity! First preached: 19th January 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, David Clark helpfully leads us through Hebrews 1 and asks the question as to whether we think of Jesus as a baby, man or the Son of God.   First preached: 12th January 2025. Speaker: David Clark.

In this sermon, we think about how the story of Jesus continues post-Christmas and doesn't stop. We consider the story of Jesus at the temple and the lessons that we can learn as we enter 2025. First preached: 5th January 2025. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we think about joy mainly from Matthew 2: 1-12 and the story of the wise men. We also think about general revelation and special revelation - and how although the Wise Men began with a general revelation that the King of the Jews was born, it was through special revelation that they ended up with a personal encounter with Jesus - and they worshipped him. First preached: 15th December 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

For the second Sunday in Advent, Robin Davis leads us through the theme of 'Peace' from Isaiah 9 and Luke 2. First preached: 8th December 2024 Speaker: Robin Davis.

In this sermon for Advent, we look at Genesis 3, Isaiah 7 and 9 - but mainly Isaiah 11 which focuses on the 'Root of David' and the Kingdom that he will bring in. We see how Jesus brings hope to the Israelites - and also to us! First preached: 1st December 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

For our morning service, we were delighted to welcome Robbie Morrison from Tearfund who shared about their work and also brought God's Word from Luke 10 - the story of the Good Samaritan. First preached: 24th November 2024. Speaker: Robbie Morrison.

In this sermon at an Evening Service, Paul Selman brings a reflection on what 'Opening the eyes of our heart' truly means. First preached: 3rd November 2024. Speaker: Paul Selman.

In this sermon, having read all that Paul has said about all falling short of God's glory and all being sinners - we finally see the solution to sin. Because Jesus comes into the world and lays down his life. And anyone who believes in him is made right with God. We also explore a little about 'propitiation' and how the sacrifice of Jesus turns away the wrath of God against sin and sinners. First preached: 3rd November 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we look at Romans 3: 9-20 which concludes the first main part of Paul's letter to the Romans from 1:18 through to 3:20. We see how Paul has laid a firm foundation and shows that all are sinners and that no-one is righteous - it doesn't matter if you are Jew or Gentile. Therefore by the end of 3:20, the question in our minds ought to be... 'How then can we be saved?'

In this sermon, Brian Murray leads us particularly through Mark 10 and what it means to serve others. First preached: 20th October 2024. Speaker: Brian Murray.

In this sermon in Ephesians 1, we think about what a blessing it is to be a Christian - that we are blessed, loved, chosen and adopted and these things are not to be taken for granted! First preached: 13th October 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we focus on Romans 2: 17-29 where we see Paul reflect on how the Law and Circumcision cannot be relied on by the Jews to bring them into a relationship with God. And so Paul is preparing us for the beginning of chapter 3 where he makes it clear that everyone - Jew and Gentile - is a sinner who needs God's grace. We also think about how our spiritual heritage can't save us but as we see the reality that we are sinners it can only lead to one conclusion... we need a Saviour. First preached: 29th September 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

We were delighted to have Rev Andrew Rooney with us to share about the work of Compassion UK. Andrew spoke to us from Mark 5: 1-20 about Jesus healing the demon-possessed man. First preached: 15th September 2024. Speaker: Andrew Rooney.

In this sermon, Robin Davis leads us through Romans 2: 1-16 and God's judgement of sin. First preached: 8th September 2024. Speaker: Robin Davis.

In this difficult passage in Romans 1, we see Paul showing the Romans why  they need a Saviour - whether Jew or Gentile. The reason is that everyone has an understanding from creation and from conscience that there is a God - but man prefers to worship idols. Therefore, God gives them over to their sinful desires as part of his anger against sin. This is all building to Paul's principal point from verses 16-17 - that Jesus is the very Saviour we need and forgiveness is found in him. First preached: 1st September 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon we think about how verses 16 and 17 in Romans 1 act as theme verses for the whole letter. We think about how the gospel is shows God's power to bring salvation - and how we are made righteous in Christ by faith. First preached: 25th August 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this evening reflection, we focus on John 6: 22-29 and think about the work that Jesus requires of us. And it is nothing onerous! It is simply to believe in Him! However believing in Jesus, though free, is not easy and will cost us everything we have. And yet - it will be worth it! First preached: 4th August 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we see Paul continue his opening remarks in his letter to the Romans - and we see what his passion is - to visit the Romans and to share the Good News about Jesus! In a similar way, we think about our own priorities and desires - putting Jesus first and sharing the good news.   First preached: 4th August 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

This is the first sermon in a series on Paul's letter to the Romans. In these opening verses, we see how Paul introduces himself and how he sets out his stall about the gospel - that the Good News is all about Jesus. First preached: 28th July 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon we see how after the Lord has spoken to Samuel that Samuel may have been afraid to pass that message on. But we think about how Eli was wise in helping Samuel to speak - but not so wise in how he responded to the message Samuel brought. We also think about how we are called to speak - and to share the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. First preached: 16th June 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, Robin Davis leads us through 1 Samuel 3: 1-14 and the call of God upon Samuel's life. First preached: 9th June 2024. Speaker: Robin Davis.

As part of the Keswick Ayrshire weekend, we were delighted to have Tommy MacNeil with us in West Kilbride and he encouraged us to 'Give God our best!' from Genesis 22 and the story of Abraham and Isaac. First preached: 2nd June 2024. Speaker: Tommy MacNeil.

In this passage in 1 Samuel, we see judgment being brought upon Eli because of his failure to discipline his sons and put the Lord first. We ask the question as to whether we are putting the Lord first - and how the Lord's judgement can be merciful. We also think about how even though it is 1 Samuel, there are already whispers of Jesus here! First preached: 26th May 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon on 1 Samuel 2: 12-26 we see the focus begin to shift onto the person of Samuel. Samuel is growing up in the Tabernacle and is faithfully serving the Lord. We see: The Dreadful - The awful sin of Eli's sons. The Delightful - God's grace and favour to Hannah. The Difficult - That the Lord has decided to bring judgement on Eli's sons before Eli even rebukes them because their hearts are hard. First preached: 19th May 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we see Hannah praising God for giving her a son and taking away her shame. However, from her own personal and lived experience, Hannah then moves to give thanks for the character of God and for the salvation which he will bring of which her own experience is a small token. First preached: 12th May 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, we see Hannah's prayer is answered as she bears a son - Samuel. However, we also see how Hannah is faithful to her promise to give Samuel over to the Lord despite the temptation it must have been to keep him for herself. We also think about the importance of handing our children over to the Lord. First preached: 5th May 2024. Speaker: James McNay.

In this sermon, Robin Davis leads us through Hannah's prayer of pain as she seeks the Lord in her despair. We are reminded that God hears us and cares for us in our pain - and we can trust in him. First preached: 28th April 2024. Speaker: Robin Davis.