Weston Park Baptist Church

On this Pentecost Sunday we hear Luke's stories of the sick being healed, individuals being saved, and the apostles being released from prison in the middle of the night by the angel of the Lord! Wondrous times celebrating the power and work of the Holy Spirit of God! Even so the Holy Spirit continues to work in the church of Christ as we are receptive to his leading and obedient to his call.

The early church was a community satiated with love, generosity and compassion. As contemporary Christians we look back on those days with a certain wistfulness of spirit. We ask ourselves if the church cannot experience such grace, kindness and compassion for others today? Yet the early church was not perfect as the desire for first place and greed for money was not unknown. As such, Lukes community of faith is both a model to emulate and a cautionary tale of negative outcomes.

Resistance in our faith journey is a fact and occurs both on a personal and collective level. What is needed is an ongoing dependence upon God to meet the daily challenges and hurdles that come our way. Especially important is to be receptive to the fresh inspiration of the Holy Spirit in our day to day faith walk. To seek the presence and power of the Spirit of God is critical if we are to overcome the subtleties of the evil one. May we learn from Peter and John as they model this dependence upon God as thy pass through difficult and challenging times.

The church in action energized by the Holy Spirit brings about healing, restoration, and new life. Such blessings happen not through our own power but by the power of Jesus. So it is Jesus, through his church, to all of humankind - this is what it means to be the people of God revealing the Kingdom of God. And this is what is occurring as we pick up the story of Peter and John and the healing of the lame man. It reveals the new life of Gods kingdom coming to fruition through the Spirit of Jesus who lives within us.

In Acts 2:42-47, we see a church that thrived because of its devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. This passage shows us the marks of a community deeply rooted in Christwhere love, care, and growth happen naturally. Join us as we explore how we can become that kind of church, a place where everyone can find belonging and purpose.

The church comes to life through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit invades our lives through the work of Jesus Christ and energizes us to become witnesses of Christ in both word and deed. We become ambassadors of Jesus! We become His hands and feet to usher in His compassion, mercy, and love to a hurting world. May we receive the call of the Great Sender and become his sent ones to our urban world.

Much of life is about waiting. We wait for all kinds of things concerning employment, family relationships, school, holidays and much more. We also spend time waiting upon God and listening for his direction. It is this experience of waiting that we find as we begin our series on The Book of Acts. It raises the question for us of What is the nature of our waiting? Is it an empty waiting of just looking at a clock or do we wait in expectation that God is working in our midst? The disciples find that as they wait in trust God is bringing about a new epoch of empowerment by his Spirit.

The resurrection of Christ is the defining point in the history of humankind. Death has been defeated and resurrection life is ours in Jesus Christ! As a result we are invited to live the abundant life even now as we make our journey under God's sun. May our reflection on Matthew's account of the empty tomb (Matthew 28) fill us with the hope and joy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ on this Easter weekend.

A key question continues to be "Who is Jesus?" It was asked in the first century (Matthew 21:10) and continues to be asked today. Is Jesus primarily a great teacher? A good model for living? A crazy person? Or our ever present living Lord? During this Easter season may we keep exploring this pivotal question of 'Who Jesus Is?' and continue to deepen our relationship with our living Lord.

As we come to the close of our reflections on King David we hear the exciting words of "an eternal covenant" instituted by Yahweh God. God wants to be in relationship with David and all in his train forever. And through Jesus the Son of David we are members of this eternal covenant. Let us rejoice and give exuberant thanks to our gracious God for the wideness of his mercy and love.

Throughout First and Second Samuel we hear about David. But in 2 Samuel 22 we hear the voice of David speaking in first person David speaking directly to his loving God. No longer the voice of a Warrior but David speaking as a poet announcing his love to his loving Father. In this Psalm we also are invited to offer our praise and devotion to our Most High God who remains faithful and kind throughout each and every generation.

Join us this Sunday as we explore Davids powerful confession after being confronted by the prophet Nathan. Through this moment of truth, we see both the consequences of sin and the boundless grace of God. No matter our failures, God offers forgiveness and restoration when we turn to Him in repentance.

King David is described as a person who has a heart after God, yet he is also a person who carries his own foibles. The story of his relationship with Bathsheba and his orchestration of Uriahs death makes this fact very clear. Nevertheless, the Lord remains faithful to David despite his unfaithfulness. It is this response of grace and forgiveness towards David that brings encouragement to our sinful hearts today. Gods amazing grace is available for us all so let us go to him continually with honest and authentic hearts.

David has experienced the compassionate love (kindness) of God and he wants to share it with others. Specifically he remembers his deep friendship with Jonathan and wants to express his loyal love to Jonathan in a tangible way towards members of Jonathans and Sauls families. David does not hold on to enmity with the descendants of Saul but rather demonstrates an attitude of forgiveness and kindness to them. In this action we have a linkage to the kindness of God (v3) and how we are also called to forgive our enemies and forsake our attitudes of bitterness, anger and holding on to old grudges. May we have the grace to emulate King David and his greater King Jesus Christ.

In the mercy of God the Shepherd King is not only established on the throne of Israel but his heirs are to be established as a dynasty forever. This Davidic Covenant becomes the genealogical foundation that culminates in Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God (Matthew 1:5-6). As a result the Davidic Covenant becomes the connection point for our own relationship with Jesus and our participation in the new Israel of God (Galatians 6:16).

Davids journey to the throne was long, but he remained faithful, trusting Gods timing. In2 Samuel 5:1-12, well see how discipline in waiting, obedience, and stewardship prepares us for Gods plans. Join us as we learn to trust His process!

Our passage tells the famous story of David having the opportunity to kill King Saul in the cave but he chooses to spare his life. Indeed, Saul is delivered into the hand of David but David waits upon God to act in his behalf. The narrative invites us to reflect upon the question What is in our hand? We also are given opportunities and capacities to know and serve God. May we recognize our chances to serve God and do so with grateful and trusting hearts.

David is on the run from King Saul who wants to kill him and there doesnt seem to be any opportunity for a peaceful resolution. It is in this stressful situation that Prince Jonathan seeks David out to encourage him and to show him loyalty and support. Indeed, Jonathans desire is to strengthen Davids hand through the Lord. When everything seems to be falling apart for David he has at least one friend who risks all to support him in his ongoing crisis. May we also experience Gods strengthening hand through our friends and be individuals who strengthen the hands of others.

The story of King Saul, his son, Jonathan and the shepherd, David, is triangular in nature. King Saul is envious of David and wants to kill him; Johnathan the son loves David and is committed to him; David is not ambitious himself but is chosen by God to become the new King of Israel. Hence it is a complicated web which is difficult for all three players to navigate properly. For the reader it is an opportunity to consider our own loyalty, faithfulness and commitment to God. Do we pursue simply our own interests (and comfort) or do we wish to faithfully serve God regardless of our own personal trajectory?

What giants are you facing today? Whether it's fear, uncertainty, or overwhelming challenges, the story of David and Goliath from 1 Samuel 17 reminds us that the battle belongs to the Lord. Join us as we explore how Davids unwavering faith in God helped him overcome impossible odds. Through this powerful narrative, well uncover how Gods strength triumphs over human limitations and how we, too, can face our giants with bold, God-centered faith.

God chooses the shepherd boy/musician named David to become the new king of Israel. By physical appearances he is not as striking as King Saul but interiorly he has a heart after God (and God above all looks at our heart.) God takes the smallest of Jesses sons to replace the tall and mighty Saul. Even so, God can take us in our littleness to do powerful things for His kingdom. In this new year of 2025 may we offer ourselves completely to our Lord and above all may we seek to have a heart after God.

Join us this Sunday as we dive into Philippians 3:12-21 and explore how to press onward in faith. Together, we'll embrace God's call to leave the past behind, focus on the goal ahead, and live with purpose as citizens of heaven in the year to come.

As we approach this Christmas canticle we hear of the faith of both Elizabeth and Mary. They demonstrate the ability to both listen to God's voice and to act with intention and purpose. Their commitment is to serve God above all and to do so with enthusiasm and zeal. Doing so they become models of Christian discipleship for us to learn form and to emulate in our own journey of faith.

The Messiah of God is a Leader who is completely concerned for the well being of his people and of all creation. Gone are the days of selfish ambition, avarice and exploitation of the environment. It is a day of The Peaceable Kingdom where everyone is respected, valued, and loved. Together with the prophet Isaiah we look forward to this blessed season of Advent pastpresentand future.

Advent is a season of preparation, a time to ready our hearts for the Lord's arrival. Isaiah 40:3-5 calls us to clear the obstacles in our lives and embrace the transformative work of God. As we anticipate the revelation of His glory, were reminded that true preparation leads to hope, renewal, and deeper communion with Him.

The birth of a child is a story of new beginnings. Not only for the baby born but also for the family unit. (A new start how exciting!) Similarly, the prophet Isaiah foretells the birth of a child who will usher in a new day of peace, hope and salvation. It will be a day of new beginnings where war, hatred and oppression will be overcome and a pure day of joy, hope and reconciliation will be established through the efforts of the Royal King. Later we hear from Matthew the exciting news that Jesus is the fulfillment of Isaiahs vision. Indeed, Jesus becomes the Prince of Peace for both the greater world and our personal human journey.

John the Evangelist writes to us that if we know Jesus we will enjoy his resurrection life both now and forever! Not just in the future. But to know the reality of resurrected life even in our present circumstances and situations. As we know Jesus we know his serenity, power, holiness, love and life. These qualities are given to us as we abide in Jesus and truly open our lives up to him. The invitation is given may we say yes and live in the assurance of Resurrection life now and forevermore.

This Sunday, we dive into 1 John 5:1-5, exploring the truth that God's commandments are not burdensome. Join us as we reflect on how our love for God and one another transform the way we see His commandsturning them from heavy rules into joyful expressions of our faith and a deeper love for each other.

We live in a society filled with fear. We are fearful for our kids, jobs, money, elections, wars you name it and we worry about it! Yet, the Epistle of 1 John emphasizes that as we trust in Gods love fear is cast out and we will experience the peace of God. Our choice is fear or faith. Trust or anxiety. Confidence or worry. The invitation is to rest in Gods loving arms and trust that God has your back! Dont give in to fear! The Creator and Saviour of the universe is on your side.

This Sunday, well explore one of the most profound truths in Scripture: God is love. In 1 John 4:7-12, John invites us to reflect on the depth of Gods love for us. We'll dive into what it means to love others as God loves us sacrificially, unconditionally, and perfectly. Together, well discover how this divine love transforms our lives and is perfected in our relationships. Come and be reminded of the power of love that comes from God Himself.

Jesus is our example in living a loving, giving life. Indeed, he gave himself so we might have life and encourages us to imitate his practice of loving sacrificially for others. The question is Will we follow the lead of Jesus? Will we take our eyes off ourselves and see the plight of our neighbours and do what we can to alleviate their needs? May we answer the question with a strong affirmative Lord use me for your Kingdom sake.

As children of God we have the promise of continual growth through our connection with Jesus. We enjoy the gift of eternal life which begins now in our everyday. When we see Christ our transformation will enter a new phase as we become like him in our eternal state. Of course, there are incredible promises to take hold of in our broken world. Yet, the promises of God are true enabling us to live with assurance and hope as overcomers in Jesus Christ our Lord.

John (the Evangelist) uses the two images of 'master/disciple' and "parent/child" to describe a believer's relationship with God. First, we are invited to follow Jesus as both our Lord and the Leader of our lives. Secondly, we are graciously determined to be children of our Heavenly Father. Both images explore the relationship of intimacy that we share with our loving God in Christ. As a result we are encouraged to follow Jesus with zeal as we enjoy the gift of 'eternal life' now and into our eternal future.

In the heady days of the Roman Empire John cautions the church of Christ to not become overly enamoured with the glory of Rome. As a civilization it was no doubt impressive but the seeds of descent were already taking root. In light of this reality John encourages believers to see what is passing and what abides forever. The question for John's church (and for us!) is can we have "in-sight" into our cultural mors and pursue what is essential and of true value.

The First Epistle of John begins with the famous statement that God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all (v5). John the Evangelist also affirms that Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12). In both cases light communicates illumination and guidance for the way we live our lives. The Father and the Son join together to provide all the light we need to enjoy a meaningful and empowering life both now and forevermore.

Psalm 139 is a treasured Psalm of the church of Christ. It reminds us that our 'all-seeing' and 'all-knowing' God is present with us in every circumstance of life. Nothing lies beyond the care and touch of our loving God. It is for this reason we can trust Him as we pass through both the blessed and challenging epochs of life's journey.

The psalmist calls us to give thanks to God for his enduring, compassionate love. He encourages us to be mindful of Gods loving presence in our day to day. We are not to grow absent-minded or become forgetful of what is most essential. Rather, we are to remain full of God always praising him for his faithful care.

The smallest psalm in the Psalter is Psalm 117. It is little in size but powerful in its message. The psalm focuses on two key attributes of God - His 'loyal love' and his 'never changing faithfulness'. God remains faithful even when we are faithless! It is for this reason that we are called to praise (and enjoy!) our magnificent triune God.

The Psalmist presents a picture of God as both high above creation as well as being near to us in our everyday world. (Theologians call this combination as God being both transcendent and immanent.) As a result we can place our faith in a mighty God who travels with us in the nitty-gritty of our taxing and troubling world.

Our Journey of a Disciple series focusing on the life of Peter comes to a close with the story of Peters restoration to ministry (John 21:1-19). Peter has denied Christ three times and now he is restored by three times vowing his love and service to the risen Christ. In this story Jesus is revealed to be a patient and forgiving Master who gives us multiple opportunities to return to him as we come with repentant and honest hearts. In a similar manner may we come to Jesus with devoted hearts and pledge our commitment to follow him with perseverance and passion.

Jesus gives his disciples a new commandment that they are to love one another even as Jesus has loved them. They are to love one another with a sacrificial love as Jesus has modelled before them. The question is the same for them and us , How will we respond to Jesus love and the call to love each other? Will we accept Jesus love or push his love away? Will we love each other or seek power over others? It comes down to a crisis of commitment. Are we really for Jesus or for ourselves? Our answer determines the course of our lives.

The foot-washing event in the Upper Room is a powerful enacted parable recorded by the Evangelist. By washing the disciples' feet Jesus challenges the assumptions of his own disciples (and the society at large). Jesus is pointing out that a pyramid model of "power over others" has no place in the new Kingdom of God. Rather than "power over" we are called to be servants of one another where humility and gift-love are the chosen values of Jesus. The invitation is to move beyond competition and comparison and to simply love and serve one another. Too often our own prejudices and "hard lines" keep us back from showing compassion and kindness to all of God's created family.