Podcasts about watford church of christ

A sermon for the Watford church of Christ. Send questions and comments here ➡️ malcolm@malcolmcox.org Subscribe to my Podcast: https://audioboom.com/channels/4909728.rss Get a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Connect with me! Instagram: (https://instagram.com/malcolmcoxteachingtips) Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/malcolmccox/) Website: (https://www.malcolmcox.org) I am a qualified solutions-focused coach. You can book a session with me either via the email above or at the website: https://malcolmcoxcoaching.com/ God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford church of Christ. Send questions and comments here ➡️ malcolm@malcolmcox.org Subscribe to my Podcast: https://audioboom.com/channels/4909728.rss Get a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Connect with me! Instagram: (https://instagram.com/malcolmcoxteachingtips) Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/malcolmccox/) Website: (https://www.malcolmcox.org) I am a qualified solutions-focused coach. You can book a session with me either via the email above or at the website: https://malcolmcoxcoaching.com/ God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford Church of Christ involving an exercise called the mutual examen. Send questions and comments here ➡️ malcolm@malcolmcox.org Subscribe to my Podcast: https://audioboom.com/channels/4909728.rss Get a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Connect with me! Instagram: (https://instagram.com/malcolmcoxteachingtips) Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/malcolmccox/) Website: (https://www.malcolmcox.org) I am a qualified solutions-focused coach. You can book a session with me either via the email above or at the website: https://malcolmcoxcoaching.com/ God bless, Malcolm

God is not static. He is involved in his creation. He is actively healing, redeeming and transforming the world and its people. In other words, he is always doing ‘a new thing'. These daily devotional podcasts accompany the teaching and preaching series of the same title for the Thames Valley churches of Christ and the Watford church of Christ. The title of our series comes from this Scripture in the book of Isaiah: “Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19 NRSV) Isaiah reveals God's plan for his people. They will not remain in exile forever. A return to the promised land is prophesied. The people in exile felt a mixture of fear and excitement. For some, living in exile had become comfortable. To uproot and return would be difficult. For others, it was the fulfilment of decades of prayerful expectation. The section of Scripture parallels the exodus with the return from exile. Leaving one land for another. Going on a difficult and dangerous journey. Leaving the familiar for the unknown. Having to trust God for provision. Pursued and surrounded by enemies.  Perhaps you can relate to this challenge. The Christian life is one where we are secure in God, but always learning, growing and journeying towards something better. Moving forward and growing is exciting, but disturbing. There is a need to let go of old things, not to say they weren't useful — they taught us things and we should remember those lessons — but we do not live in the past. We are moving forward in time and maturity towards being with God for ever and growing more and more into the likeness of his son, Jesus. As we enter a new year God surely has plans to do new things in us and among us. What those are we may not yet know. But we can be sure they will be revealed as the year progresses. In this series we are seeking to learn from the great men and women of faith in Scripture who encountered something new, were called to something new, took on something new, and left lessons in faith for us who follow after them. Why not take a moment to pray and reflect on what you hope to get from his series?  Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community. Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org. If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org. Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. Conclusion I hope you find your heart, your life, your congregation and your world inspired by God doing a new thing. Until tomorrow, take care, and God bless.  God bless, Malcolm "Carpe Diem" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

God is not static. He is involved in his creation. He is actively healing, redeeming and transforming the world and its people. In other words, he is always doing ‘a new thing'. These daily devotional podcasts accompany the teaching and preaching series of the same title for the Thames Valley churches of Christ and the Watford church of Christ. The title of our series comes from this Scripture in the book of Isaiah: “Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19 NRSV) Isaiah reveals God's plan for his people. They will not remain in exile forever. A return to the promised land is prophesied. The people in exile felt a mixture of fear and excitement. For some, living in exile had become comfortable. To uproot and return would be difficult. For others, it was the fulfilment of decades of prayerful expectation. The section of Scripture parallels the exodus with the return from exile. Leaving one land for another. Going on a difficult and dangerous journey. Leaving the familiar for the unknown. Having to trust God for provision. Pursued and surrounded by enemies.  Perhaps you can relate to this challenge. The Christian life is one where we are secure in God, but always learning, growing and journeying towards something better. Moving forward and growing is exciting, but disturbing. There is a need to let go of old things, not to say they weren't useful — they taught us things and we should remember those lessons — but we do not live in the past. We are moving forward in time and maturity towards being with God for ever and growing more and more into the likeness of his son, Jesus. As we enter a new year God surely has plans to do new things in us and among us. What those are we may not yet know. But we can be sure they will be revealed as the year progresses. In this series we are seeking to learn from the great men and women of faith in Scripture who encountered something new, were called to something new, took on something new, and left lessons in faith for us who follow after them. Why not take a moment to pray and reflect on what you hope to get from his series?  Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community. Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org. If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org. Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. Conclusion I hope you find your heart, your life, your congregation and your world inspired by God doing a new thing. Until tomorrow, take care, and God bless.  God bless, Malcolm "Carpe Diem" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

God is not static. He is involved in his creation. He is actively healing, redeeming and transforming the world and its people. In other words, he is always doing ‘a new thing'. These daily devotional podcasts accompany the teaching and preaching series of the same title for the Thames Valley churches of Christ and the Watford church of Christ. The title of our series comes from this Scripture in the book of Isaiah: “Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19 NRSV) Isaiah reveals God's plan for his people. They will not remain in exile forever. A return to the promised land is prophesied. The people in exile felt a mixture of fear and excitement. For some, living in exile had become comfortable. To uproot and return would be difficult. For others, it was the fulfilment of decades of prayerful expectation. The section of Scripture parallels the exodus with the return from exile. Leaving one land for another. Going on a difficult and dangerous journey. Leaving the familiar for the unknown. Having to trust God for provision. Pursued and surrounded by enemies.  Perhaps you can relate to this challenge. The Christian life is one where we are secure in God, but always learning, growing and journeying towards something better. Moving forward and growing is exciting, but disturbing. There is a need to let go of old things, not to say they weren't useful — they taught us things and we should remember those lessons — but we do not live in the past. We are moving forward in time and maturity towards being with God for ever and growing more and more into the likeness of his son, Jesus. As we enter a new year God surely has plans to do new things in us and among us. What those are we may not yet know. But we can be sure they will be revealed as the year progresses. In this series we are seeking to learn from the great men and women of faith in Scripture who encountered something new, were called to something new, took on something new, and left lessons in faith for us who follow after them. Why not take a moment to pray and reflect on what you hope to get from his series?  Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community. Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org. If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org. Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. Conclusion I hope you find your heart, your life, your congregation and your world inspired by God doing a new thing. Until tomorrow, take care, and God bless.  God bless, Malcolm "Carpe Diem" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Last Sunday we welcomed my good friend Dr Andy Boakye as a visiting speaker to the Watford church of Christ. He spoke on "The Advent of Jesus in Matthew's genealogy” from Matthew 1:2-6.  Andy observed that four women are mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus — Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and ‘the wife of Uriah'. All are questionable as to dignity. The theme of dignity restored to those who have lost it is a theme in Matthew's Gospel. Especially when it pertains to women.  ‘Jesus affirmed the dignity of women by accepting them as disciples and treating them with a respect that was considered scandalous in his patriarchal culture.' Four views on women in ministry  Jesus came to restore the dignity of the disregarded and the forgotten. We see that in his treatment of any who are marginalised including by race — Matthew 15.22, the Canaanite woman. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Last Sunday we welcomed my good friend Dr Andy Boakye as a visiting speaker to the Watford church of Christ. He spoke on "The Advent of Jesus in Matthew's genealogy” from Matthew 1:2-6.  Andy observed that four women are mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus — Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and ‘the wife of Uriah'. All are questionable as to dignity. The theme of dignity restored to those who have lost it is a theme in Matthew's Gospel. Especially when it pertains to women.  ‘Jesus affirmed the dignity of women by accepting them as disciples and treating them with a respect that was considered scandalous in his patriarchal culture.' Four views on women in ministry  Jesus came to restore the dignity of the disregarded and the forgotten. We see that in his treatment of any who are marginalised including by race — Matthew 15.22, the Canaanite woman. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Last Sunday we welcomed my good friend Dr Andy Boakye as a visiting speaker to the Watford church of Christ. He spoke on "The Advent of Jesus in Matthew's genealogy” from Matthew 1:2-6. Something has stayed with me since Sunday so I thought I would share it with you today.  Andy observed that four women are mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus — Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and ‘the wife of Uriah'. All are questionable as to dignity. The theme of dignity restored to those who have lost it is a theme in Matthew's Gospel. Especially when it pertains to women.  ‘Jesus affirmed the dignity of women by accepting them as disciples and treating them with a respect that was considered scandalous in his patriarchal culture.' Four views on women in ministry  Jesus came to restore the dignity of the disregarded and the forgotten. We see that in his treatment of any who are marginalised including by race — Matthew 15.22, the Canaanite woman.  ‘We have endured traumatic histories and the almost daily assaults on our dignity, like being tailed at the mall or when someone yells the N‑word from a car as they speed past.' Healing from race-based trauma  How did Jesus restore dignity to women and others who were denied it? He did not instantly miraculous Institute justice for all. That will come in the next life. Instead, he took the position of one undignified so as to empathise and sympathise with those in that state. When you are treated as if one unworthy of dignity, Jesus understands. Jesus' birth was not ‘dignified', nor was his death. Why did he endure such indignity?  To grant us his dignity.  “He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.” (1 Thessalonians 5:10 NIV11)  He has the dignity of the beloved son, the one with whom God is pleased, and that is something we share with him because we live together with him. This is one of the reasons we pray. God granted us prayer as an indicator of the fact that he considers as worthy of dignity. Blaise Pascal said that:  ‘God has instituted prayer to impart to his creatures the dignity of causality.'  Some words from a song by Carolyn Arends:  No regal robes  He's wrapped up in a blanket and his mama's arms  No royal throne  Just hay for a cradle in a dusty barn  Could he be the one that we think he is?  The kingdom coming down to where we live?  What kind of king is this?  What Kind of King is This? https://youtu.be/XKY5SFXUj58?si=IjXVKNh-FAj39q__   Questions for Reflection  Do you truly believe in your heart of hearts that you have dignity before God? What difference does this make to the way you pray? What difference does this make to the way you live? Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.   Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.   If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org.   Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.   “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11) God bless, Malcolm 

You have found an upload from the Watford church of Christ. We were delighted to welcome Archie Higgin to speak to us on what the suffering of Christ in Gethsemane teaches us about his compassion for his disciples and us today.

A sermon for the Watford church of Christ. 1. Huldah, vv14-20 A. What was an Old Testament prophet? QUESTION: Definition? A ‘covenant enforcer' B. One of a few female prophets The others: Miriam, Deborah, and Isaiah's wife (Exod 15:20; Judg 4:4; 2 Kgs 22:14; Isa 8:3). No sense this wrong No sense should be a man Contemporaries: Jeremiah; Nahum; Zephaniah; Habakkuk C. Knew the Bible Knew the book - even though lost Knew it was Scripture Knew how to interpret into her time 2. Josiah, vv8-13; 23:1ff A. Strikes against him Evil grandfather and father - 2 Kings 21:6; 21:20-22 Tragic family - 2 Kings 21:23-24 Evil societal religious culture - 2 Kings 23:6, 7, 10, Evil leadership culture - 8/4 His elders and betters had got it wrong Not a victim B. Spiritual Integrity Enquire of the best person - even if not conventional. Wants to know how much authority this book has Wants to know what it means for him C. Renews covenant & Passover 23:1-3, 21-23, 25 Urgent, thorough, self-motivated, brave Consequences to religion industry! Purity of heart — he was OK. Did this for Israel and God. Why did Josiah react in the way he did? What does that tell us about him? What motivated his actions? Why did he do what he did? What can we learn from Josiah? What does Huldah's response tell us about her? Why do you think Josiah asked her, not any other prophet? What can we learn from Huldah? Summary Josiah had a good heart He needed someone to help him interpret God's Word Huldah had cultivated her relationship with God She was ready when the most important opportunity came 3. God and Us A. Huldah as a model of spiritual wisdom Do you need to devote yourself to learning scripture? We are all teachers - but teachers need to learn B. Josiah as a model of repentance Do you need to seek out someone to help you understand your spiritual state? Do you need to repent? Any idols? C. God as patient, warning, helping Conclusion Josiah's name: healed by God; God will support; God heals 1 Peter 2.24 - his wounds heal us Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford church of Christ. 1. Huldah, vv14-20 A. What was an Old Testament prophet? QUESTION: Definition? A ‘covenant enforcer' B. One of a few female prophets The others: Miriam, Deborah, and Isaiah's wife (Exod 15:20; Judg 4:4; 2 Kgs 22:14; Isa 8:3). No sense this wrong No sense should be a man Contemporaries: Jeremiah; Nahum; Zephaniah; Habakkuk C. Knew the Bible Knew the book - even though lost Knew it was Scripture Knew how to interpret into her time 2. Josiah, vv8-13; 23:1ff A. Strikes against him Evil grandfather and father - 2 Kings 21:6; 21:20-22 Tragic family - 2 Kings 21:23-24 Evil societal religious culture - 2 Kings 23:6, 7, 10, Evil leadership culture - 8/4 His elders and betters had got it wrong Not a victim B. Spiritual Integrity Enquire of the best person - even if not conventional. Wants to know how much authority this book has Wants to know what it means for him C. Renews covenant & Passover 23:1-3, 21-23, 25 Urgent, thorough, self-motivated, brave Consequences to religion industry! Purity of heart — he was OK. Did this for Israel and God. Why did Josiah react in the way he did? What does that tell us about him? What motivated his actions? Why did he do what he did? What can we learn from Josiah? What does Huldah's response tell us about her? Why do you think Josiah asked her, not any other prophet? What can we learn from Huldah? Summary Josiah had a good heart He needed someone to help him interpret God's Word Huldah had cultivated her relationship with God She was ready when the most important opportunity came 3. God and Us A. Huldah as a model of spiritual wisdom Do you need to devote yourself to learning scripture? We are all teachers - but teachers need to learn B. Josiah as a model of repentance Do you need to seek out someone to help you understand your spiritual state? Do you need to repent? Any idols? C. God as patient, warning, helping Conclusion Josiah's name: healed by God; God will support; God heals 1 Peter 2.24 - his wounds heal us Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

The more I study the Bible in detail, the more I realise I need a better handle on the big picture.  Several things have come together recently to help me make a big decision. What is that decision? To read the entire Bible in 12 months. This is part one of a two-parter on the topic.  Perhaps this decision does not seem such a big deal to you. Indeed, many years of my Christian life I have read the entire Old and New Testaments within 365 days. But I haven't done that for some time. Why? Partly because it got stale. Partly because I found myself needing to study Scripture in more detail. The amount of time involved focusing on a book of the Bible or a topic seemed to get in the way of more voluminous reading. Of course, detailed study and extensive reading or not necessarily mutually exclusive. However, my perspective has changed. Why? For two primary reasons. The first is spending more time around my good friend, Douglas Jacoby. He has read through the entire Bible almost every year of his Christian life. He has championed this practice and was my first inspiration for doing so. Talking to Douglas about any biblical topic is like talking to a Bible concordance. It's not only that he has an excellent memory (which he does), but it has a lot to do with his familiarity with the whole of the Bible. It has seeped into him verse by verse, year by year.  The second cause is ironically a consequence of one of the reasons I stopped habitually reading the Bible in 12 months. Let me give you some context. In the Watford church of Christ this year we have been studying 'Men and women: a divine harmony'. We are attempting to explore and discover  God's intention for how men and women are meant to be a mutual blessing to one another, the church and the world. I have drilled down on this topic in my personal Bible study and lesson preparation. Passages such as 1 Timothy 2:11-15 and 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 have been extensively analysed. Gaining a biblical perspective on these teachings has required me to look at the rest of the Bible's teaching on authority, submission and men and women. We have found ourselves looking at Deborah and Barak, Huldah and Josiah, Adam and Eve, Lydia and Paul, Phoebe, Jesus and a number of women with whom he interacted, David and Abigail, Ruth and Boaz, Esther and Mordecai.... The list goes on.  Studying this topic has taken me all over the Bible -- often into nooks and crannies I have not visited for some time. It has dawned on me more and more that the issue cannot be understood from one or two passages. Not even a dozen. This topic requires a reasonably good understanding of the entirety of Scripture. Hence my decision to resume reading the Bible in 12 months.  Is this something you might consider? There are many different ways to do it. I have chosen this time round to use a devotional reading plan in my bible software [Accordance](https://www.accordancebible.com/). Each day I get a selection of Old Testament, New Testament, a Psalm and a Proverb or two. I read these first thing in the morning before going out for my prayer walk. I like using the Accordance bible software because if I hover my mouse over the text reference a drop-down box gives me the full text (see below). It also synchronises nicely with the mobile app. However, the point is not the app, nor the particular plan, but the motivation.  Conclusion I hope you find these reflections helpful. Reading the Bible in 12 months is to some degree an artificial aim. However, I cherish the idea of becoming more familiar with *all* of Scripture. It's there for a reason, and interacting with it can only enrich my life.  Next week I offer seven reasons for reading through the bible in a year.  Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm  https://www.accordancebible.com/ 

A Watford church of Christ lesson on God's love for the vulnerable and our part in loving those who need his care. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A Watford church of Christ lesson on God's love for the vulnerable and our part in loving those who need his care. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford church of Christ

Introduction In my last two sermons for the Watford church of Christ and the Thames Valley churches of Christ I including some vulnerable personal sharing about a recent incident in my life. I noticed it had a profound effect on both groups, even causing some people to cry. Afterwards they came up to me to thank me. I apologised for making them cry, but they thanked me again, saying it was healing. So today I thought I would post a brief recording on how we use such sharing to help people, rather than manipulate them. I assume we are agreed on the value of personal sharing, so I will restrict myself to comments on best practices. “We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.” (2 Corinthians 1:8-9 NIV11) 1. Aim to help other people, not yourself The aim is not to cause people to feel something for you as the speaker, but to help them. Sometimes, in our insecurity, we share personally, because we want people to like us Sharing with a group is only helpful if the fact of sharing helps, not when looking for acceptance from the group.  Ask yourself the question, “Am I sharing this because I want people to connect with me, or to connect with God?” 2. Aim to point to God, not to obscure him The personal sharing must connect with scripture, God as father, Jesus or the Holy Spirit. If it's really just about you it will not helping the word of God land in peoples hearts. Ask yourself the question, “In what way is this personal sharing helping people to connect with God?” 3. Aim to inspire, not to shock Be careful about making your stories too emotionally intense, or graphic. If the emotional impact is too high, people find it hard to truly hear what you are saying. They react on an emotional level with your sharing and the point gets lost in all the noise of the emotions. Ask yourself the question, “Will this sharing prevent people from engaging with the point I'm making?” Conclusion Authenticity is "the sharing of self by relating in a natural, sincere, spontaneous, open and genuine manner." I Thought it was just me, Brene Brown “You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness.” (1 Thessalonians 2:5 NIV11) Our aim is authenticity and helpfulness.  Question: What have you found helpful in developing healthy personal sharing? Why not sign up for the Old Testament Survey module: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/old-testament-survey-aim-uk-ireland-tickets-531954449077  More information about AIM can be found here: https://www.aimukandireland.com. Send me an email expressing interest if you cannot find what you need on the site.  Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  Keep calm and carry on teaching. God bless, Malcolm

Today we continue with a series based on Psalm 27. I spoke on this Psalm's theme, and especially verse 4, for the Watford church of Christ. We are part-way through a series based on the “one thing” phrases found in the Scriptures. If you haven't already done so, I recommend listening to the first episode which covers some background thoughts on the context of the Psalm.  Now, on to today's verse.  “One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.” (Psalm 27:4 NIV11) “The men of one idea are irresistible. The arrowy stream will force its way through the toughest soil. See that all the prayers, incidents, and circumstances of life subserve one intense purpose. String all the beads on one thread. When the eye is single, the whole body is full of light.” Daily Homily, F. B. Meyer ‘one thing..ask…seek''  Hearing him say ‘one thing I want', we would expect him to say something connected with reclaiming his status, wife, livelihood, citizenship. But no.  ‘although David was banished from his country, despoiled of his wife, bereft of his kinsfolk; and…dispossessed of his substance, yet he was not so desirous for the recovery of these, as he was grieved and afflicted for his banishment from God's sanctuary, and the loss of his sacred privileges.' Calvin  His desire to be close to God is very active - ‘ask', ‘seek' X2, ‘dwell', ‘gaze'.   ‘dwell' used of a married couple who have set up house together.  “Figuratively, David prays that he, too, may dwell in God's house/temple. He surely does not ask for a change in God's law whereby he, a non-priest, could enter (indeed, dwell in) the temple. So it is a state of blessedness for which he prays, that he might always be in God's favour.” TWOT, 493   How ‘dwell' constantly?  An ‘ear worm'  An underlying state - almost subconscious  When a married couple or family, good friends know what each other is thinking. Comes from many hours together and sharing of hearts  Our awareness of God not meant to be ‘coagulated' into small spaces of each day or week. Meant to be a constantly running stream.  Breaking the separation of sacred and secular - as Jesus does for us by tearing the veil.   The ‘beauty' of the LORD is not simply physical but the beauty of God's nature. Can also be translated ‘favour', or ‘pleasantness', Ps 90.17, Zech 11.7-14.  A good quiet time could be to meditate on what is ‘beautiful' about the LORD. Would that include His holiness, mercy, long-suffering nature, loving-kindness, integrity, justice, completeness, perfection, wisdom, .....?  'Beauty has transformative power. Have you ever noticed that whether it comes from music, a painting, or a face, beauty affects us? It can lighten our faces and cause us to sigh with delight. Just a little bit, it beautifies us. But the beauty of Christ is something more. It comes and completely transforms us, all the way down. No one else is like this. No one else has this sort of transformative power in their beauty. Christ's beauty is perfect and eternal, and it's ours to seek and to see.' Starke, John. The Possibility of Prayer . InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.   ‘seek him' - preoccupation with God; dwell, gaze, seek.  The Hebrew word used here (baqar) literally means to plow into.  A characteristic of discipleship and worship.   What are the lessons from this verse?  i. Putting our requests to God is right and proper. But the first request above all others is the desire to be with God more than receive things from God.  ii. When our world is disturbed like David's, our priority is to seek and gaze on God more than solve our problems. We will conclude today's podcast with the song I wrote using the words of Psalm 27 verse 4. Next week we will proceed to the fifth verse of the Psalm. In the meantime, please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Today we continue with a series based on Psalm 27. I spoke on this Psalm's theme, and especially verse 4, for the Watford church of Christ. We are part-way through a series based on the “one thing” phrases found in the Scriptures. If you haven't already done so, I recommend listening to the first episode which covers some background thoughts on the context of the Psalm.  Now, on to today's verse.  “Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” (Psalm 27:3 NIV11) David is not only confident about the present, but also about the future.  It is one thing to have enemies, it is another when they band together and start a war!  Even then David is confident in God.  An army is nothing when God is on our side. “Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again.” (Exodus 14:13 NIV11) “The LORD said to Gideon, “You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, ‘My own strength has saved me.'” (Judges 7:2 NIV11) ““Don't be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”” (2 Kings 6:16 NIV11) Sometimes we can hold it together while attack is threatened, but give in to fear once the assault has begun. At that point we are tempted to complain to God that we have prayed and trusted him that the fight will not happen, but happen it does. Will we then continue to trust God?  Victory does not always look certain during the battle. “As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning.” (Exodus 17:11 NIV11) But if we remain faithful we will ‘rout' the enemy (Heb 11.34).   “…who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies.” (Hebrews 11:33–34 NIV11) David's heart is at peace through all these trials. His inner David, his self, the seat of his thoughts and emotions, his mind, are all unafraid, untroubled, and calm. If David had that level of confidence in God, how much more fortunate we are to have the promise of peace from Jesus! ““I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”” (John 16:33 NIV11) What are the lessons from this verse?  i. Overwhelming opposition does not mean we have to despair ii. Confidence and courage are possible in all circumstances since God is with us We will conclude today's podcast with the song I wrote using the words of Psalm 27 verse 4. Next week we will proceed to the fourth verse of the Psalm. In the meantime, please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Quiet Time Coaching Episode 329 | Psalm 27, “One Thing I Ask” Series | Part 3 | Malcolm Cox Today we continue with a series based on Psalm 27. I spoke on this Psalm's theme, and especially verse 4, for the Watford church of Christ. We are part-way through a series based on the “one thing” phrases found in the Scriptures. If you haven't already done so, I recommend listening to the first episode which covers some background thoughts on the context of the Psalm.  Now, on to today's verse.  “When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall.” (Psalm 27:2 NIV11) David has problems. His enemies not only have evil intent, but they aim to destroy. They want him gone, out of the picture, eliminated. Have you ever had an experience like that? What does it do to your peace of mind and confidence about the future? Let's see how David responds. First of all, we note that David faces reality head on. He is not unaware of his predicament, nor is he trying to pretend it is not as severe as it is. One of the keys to spiritual well-being is to acknowledge our challenges, to recognise the motives of those who would harm us, and to take it all to God. The word ‘devour' can mean to ‘eat'.  This is a reminder of the frail nature of our physical existence. It can also mean to ‘slander' from an Akkadian idiom ‘to eat a piece of me'. Who does this remind you of?  “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:8–9 NIV11) Satan is a roaring lion looking to devour us. But, he can be resisted and he will flee. He flees not because of our strength, but because he recognises the strength of Christ in us. Emphatically it is David's enemies that will fall and not he himself.  He has the light (v1) - they are in darkness where stumbling is a natural consequence of not having light. The tables are turned.  The enemies expect to be victorious, but they are the ones who will fall, and not David.  They will not be falling at David's feet, but falling at the feet of God. It is he who fights our battles. You might like to look up this song on such a theme by Michael W. Smith: https://youtu.be/YBl84oZxnJ4  People ‘falling' at the power/revelation of God was a common experience in Scripture, Ezek. 1:28; 44:4; Dan. 2:46; 8:18; 10:9; Acts 9:4; 22:7; 26:14; Rev. 1:17; 19:10; 22:8, and when the soldiers approached Jesus. “When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.” (John 18:6 NIV11) The story is told of the Christian woman who heard a knock at the door. She called out, “Who's there?”. “The devil”, came the reply. “Can I come in?” “Yes”, she said, ‘but you should know that Jesus is here with me.” “Ah!”, said the devil, “I'll come back another time.” What is the lesson from this verse? When under attack David does two things:  i. He turns to God in prayer   ii. He turns to God in faith These two actions are adequate to quiet his soul.  Both actions require courage. The courage to step away from our anxiety long enough to pray, and the courage to trust God for a future which we cannot yet see. How could these two simple actions help you with whatever you feel I might ‘devour' you? We will conclude today's podcast with the song I wrote using the words of Psalm 27 verse 4. Next week we will proceed to the third verse of the Psalm. In the meantime, please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Quiet Time Coaching Episode 328 | Psalm 27, “One Thing I Ask” Series | Part 2 | Malcolm Cox Today we continue with a series based on Psalm 27. I spoke on this Psalm's theme, and especially verse 4, for the Watford church of Christ. We are part-way through a series based on the “one thing” phrases found in the Scriptures. If you haven't already done so, I recommend listening to the first episode which covers some background thoughts on the context of the Psalm.  “The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1) The LORD What is the first thing we notice? The first two words of each sentence. "The LORD”. David may be surrounded by enemies, but YHWH is first and foremost in his thoughts. One of the reasons David was a man after God's own heart was that he trusted God to be present, nearby and attentive. How spiritual well-being is directly tied to how much confidence we have that God is present and powerful. Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1 NIV11) His followers were worried about his physical departure. They didn't realise was that he would be just as present, and more so because the Holy Spirit would be with us and in us, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” (John 14:16–17). Jesus promises us he will always be with us, “My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” (John 14:23 NIV11) What is the lesson from this truth? We do well to begin our prayers with a reflection on the presence of our Father God, Jesus and the Spirit before we offer our requests and petitions. That's why the Lord's prayer begins with, “Our Father in heaven…".  The LORD's Qualities David lists three of God's qualities at the beginning of this Psalm. God is his light, his salvation and his stronghold. These qualities give us a clue as to what David is fearing. He is fearing darkness, lostness and insecurity. Don't we all struggle with these feelings from time to time? Perhaps David is thinking of the lamps in the tabernacle. They were maintained so they did not go out symbolising God's permanent presence. you might remember Samuel's experience of hearing God in the temple, “The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the house of the LORD, where the ark of God was.” (1 Samuel 3:3)  We rightly fear darkness and lostness, ““The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” (Matthew 6:22–23). Messiah was expected to be a light, “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”” (Isaiah 49:6 NIV11). Jesus is the light: “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”” (John 8:12 NIV11) A ‘stronghold' is a place of safety, a refuge where no harm can befall, “The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” (Psalm 9:9 NIV11) In Hebrew it can mean a walled and fortified place; a safe inaccessible place especially an elevated situation above ones enemies. As brothers and sister to Christ we are safer than any physical space, “We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.” (1 John 5:18) What is the lesson from these truths? Our prayers carry more substance when they reflect the qualities of God. God as provider of light, salvation and safety meant everything to David as he experienced the challenges in his life at that point. What challenges are you facing? Which of God's many qualities are most relevant to you at the moment? Could you make those a focus of your prayers? I suspect you will find such a practice helpful in strengthening your faith and courage. David's Response Reflecting on the Lord's nearness and his qualities leads David to speak a simple truth - there is no one he needs to fear. As the writer to the Hebrews puts it, ““The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?””(Hebrews 13:6 NIV11) Jesus is not angry when we fear people, but he hurts for us because he knows there is a better, healthier, more peace-filled and joyful way for us to live. We can live without crippling fear - the fear which shackles our spiritual ambition.  What is the lesson from this truth? To bring our fears into God's light and allowing him to burn them away as we rejoice in his presence, his power, his provision and his love. We will conclude today's podcast with the song I wrote using the words of Psalm 27 verse 4. Next week we will proceed to the second verse of the Psalm. In the meantime, please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Today we start a new series based on Psalm 27. I spoke on this Psalm's theme, and especially verse 4, for the Watford church of Christ. We are part-way through a series based on the “one thing” phrases found in the Scriptures. I am dedicating this series to my friend Akin who told me that Psalm 27 was his father's favourite Psalm.  I was so taken by the Psalm that I thought it would be worth taking the time to go deeper into the passage. We will take one verse at a time, week by week. We begin this week with a brief introduction, a reading of the Psalm and then I will share with you a short song I wrote using the words of verse 4. Music helps to embed words into our memories. I hope you will take the time to listen and learn this simple song. I believe it will enable the truth of God's Word to find a permanent home in your soul.  First a comment or two on the Psalm's setting. It has similar themes as the previous Psalm and following one. These are primarily the challenges created by enemies, and delight in the Lord's house.  You might benefit from reading the other Psalms in order to grasp more of David's circumstances. All three Psalms may refer to the same situation in David's life, which could have been his flight from Jerusalem as a result of his son Absalom's coup (1 Samuel 15-18). “Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident. One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD. Hear my voice when I call, LORD; be merciful to me and answer me. My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, LORD, I will seek. Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, God my Savior. Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me. Teach me your way, LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations. I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” (Psalm 27:0–14 NIV11) Now let me share my song with you…….  Next week we will proceed to the first verse of the Psalm. In the meantime, please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Today we start a new series based on Psalm 27. I spoke on this Psalm's theme, and especially verse 4, for the Watford church of Christ. We are part-way through a series based on the “one thing” phrases found in the Scriptures. I am dedicating this series to my friend Akin who told me that Psalm 27 was his father's favourite Psalm.  I was so taken by the Psalm that I thought it would be worth taking the time to go deeper into the passage. We will take one verse at a time, week by week. We begin this week with a brief introduction, a reading of the Psalm and then I will share with you a short song I wrote using the words of verse 4. Music helps to embed words into our memories. I hope you will take the time to listen and learn this simple song. I believe it will enable the truth of God's Word to find a permanent home in your soul.  First a comment or two on the Psalm's setting. It has similar themes as the previous Psalm and following one. These are primarily the challenges created by enemies, and delight in the Lord's house.  You might benefit from reading the other Psalms in order to grasp more of David's circumstances. All three Psalms may refer to the same situation in David's life, which could have been his flight from Jerusalem as a result of his son Absalom's coup (1 Samuel 15-18). “Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident. One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD. Hear my voice when I call, LORD; be merciful to me and answer me. My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, LORD, I will seek. Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, God my Savior. Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me. Teach me your way, LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations. I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” (Psalm 27:0–14 NIV11) Now let me share my song with you.  Next week we will proceed to the first verse of the Psalm. In the meantime, please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we asked the question as to why God gave us so many letters. Having explored that, we go on to investigate the reason why evangelism is hardly mentioned in the epistles. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we asked the question as to why God gave us so many letters. Having explored that, we go on to investigate the reason why evangelism is hardly mentioned in the epistles. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford Church of Christ. We have reached the end of our road to the resurrection. We spent some time today thinking about the meaning of the resurrection. Why did he rise? Why does he still live?  The key aspects of our exploration are his ability to help us and his commitment to love us. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford Church of Christ. We have reached the end of our road to the resurrection. We spent some time today thinking about the meaning of the resurrection. Why did he rise? Why does he still live?  The key aspects of our exploration are his ability to help us and his commitment to love us. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford Church of Christ in the series: "The Road to the Resurrection" Handouts available here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/a-beautiful-thing-mark-141-11/  Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford Church of Christ in the series: "The Road to the Resurrection" Handouts available here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/a-beautiful-thing-mark-141-11/  Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

This is the second lesson in a new series for the Watford Church of Christ. What does it mean for us to be a church who make God look great?  Our second foray into answering this question is to establish the significance of being relationship-based. We take inspiration from the God's vision, Christ's heart, the Spirit's power and the church's witness. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

This is the second lesson in a new series for the Watford Church of Christ. What does it mean for us to be a church who make God look great?  Our second foray into answering this question is to establish the significance of being relationship-based. We take inspiration from the God's vision, Christ's heart, the Spirit's power and the church's witness. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

This week we begin a new series in the Watford Church of Christ. What does it mean for us to be a church who make God look great?  Our first foray into answering this question is to establish that we must first and foremost be God-focused. We take inspiration from the church in Antioch looking at what happened in Acts 11, 13, 14 and 15. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

This week we begin a new series in the Watford Church of Christ. What does it mean for us to be a church who make God look great?  Our first foray into answering this question is to establish that we must first and foremost be God-focused. We take inspiration from the church in Antioch looking at what happened in Acts 11, 13, 14 and 15. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Today I share with you a prayer I discovered which had a profound spiritual effect on me and the Watford Church of Christ when we read it together on Sunday, the 2nd of January. Here is the text: I am no longer my own but yours. Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; put me to doing, put me to suffering; let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you, exalted for you, or brought low for you; let me be full, let me be empty, let me have all things, let me have nothing: I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal. And now, glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you are mine and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant now made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford church of Christ we examine the healthy practices of the early church.  What does it mean to be devoted to the apostles teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread and the prayers? I include here some of the quotes used in the sermon: “It was a small group…whom Jesus commissioned to carry on his work, and bring the gospel to the whole world. They were not distinguished; they were not well educated; they had no influential backers. In their own nation they were nobodies and, in any case, their own nation was a mere second-class province on the eastern extremity of the Roman map. If they had stopped to weigh up the probabilities of succeeding in their mission, even granted their conviction that Jesus was alive and that his Spirit went with them to equip them for the task, that hearts must surely have sunk, so heavily were they weighted against them. How could they possibly succeed? And yet they did.” Evangelism in the early church, Michael Green. Chrysostom [347-407; Constantinople] ‘This was an angelic commonwealth, not to call anything of theirs their own. Forthwith the root of evils was cut out.… None reproached, none envied, none grudged; no pride, no contempt was there.… The poor man knew no shame, the rich no haughtiness.' The Methodist Covenant Prayer I am no longer my own but yours.
 Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; 
put me to doing, put me to suffering;
 let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you, 
exalted for you, or brought low for you;
 let me be full, let me be empty,
 let me have all things, let me have nothing:
 I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.
 And now, glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
 you are mine and I am yours. So be it. 
And the covenant now made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven.' Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford church of Christ we examine the healthy practices of the early church.  What does it mean to be devoted to the apostles teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread and the prayers? I include here some of the quotes used in the sermon: “It was a small group…whom Jesus commissioned to carry on his work, and bring the gospel to the whole world. They were not distinguished; they were not well educated; they had no influential backers. In their own nation they were nobodies and, in any case, their own nation was a mere second-class province on the eastern extremity of the Roman map. If they had stopped to weigh up the probabilities of succeeding in their mission, even granted their conviction that Jesus was alive and that his Spirit went with them to equip them for the task, that hearts must surely have sunk, so heavily were they weighted against them. How could they possibly succeed? And yet they did.” Evangelism in the early church, Michael Green. Chrysostom [347-407; Constantinople] ‘This was an angelic commonwealth, not to call anything of theirs their own. Forthwith the root of evils was cut out.… None reproached, none envied, none grudged; no pride, no contempt was there.… The poor man knew no shame, the rich no haughtiness.' The Methodist Covenant Prayer I am no longer my own but yours.
 Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; 
put me to doing, put me to suffering;
 let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you, 
exalted for you, or brought low for you;
 let me be full, let me be empty,
 let me have all things, let me have nothing:
 I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.
 And now, glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
 you are mine and I am yours. So be it. 
And the covenant now made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven.' Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford Church of Christ  1. Spirit at work, vv25-27     - Working before Pentecost     - Year past & year to come     - Messy, but glorious     - Much like 2021! 2. Salvation at work, vv29-32     - "They are both living in a world of patient hope, where suffering has become a way of life. It now appears that God's appointed redeemer will deal with this suffering by sharing it himself." Wright, N. T. Luke for Everyone.  4. Accordance electronic edition, version 2.3. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2011.     - Available to all 3. Sword at work, vv33-35     - 'rhomphaia' denotes a large sword     - Jesus came to serve us at a high cost     - We imitate him     - Is there a serving-focus God is presenting to you in 2022? Conclusion - Jesus will himself fall & rise - Communion celebrates this Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

A sermon for the Watford Church of Christ  1. Spirit at work, vv25-27     - Working before Pentecost     - Year past & year to come     - Messy, but glorious     - Much like 2021! 2. Salvation at work, vv29-32     - "They are both living in a world of patient hope, where suffering has become a way of life. It now appears that God's appointed redeemer will deal with this suffering by sharing it himself." Wright, N. T. Luke for Everyone.  4. Accordance electronic edition, version 2.3. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2011.     - Available to all 3. Sword at work, vv33-35     - 'rhomphaia' denotes a large sword     - Jesus came to serve us at a high cost     - We imitate him     - Is there a serving-focus God is presenting to you in 2022? Conclusion - Jesus will himself fall & rise - Communion celebrates this Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we take a look at one of the most confusing, yet, also surprisingly practical chapters from the gospel of Mark. I do my best to give an overview of the meaning of the abomination that causes desolation and the other extraordinary predictions of Jesus. In the end, however, we must reckon with the warnings in this chapter. “Watch out (5)… Do not be alarmed (7)… Be on your guard (9)… Do not worry (11)… stand firm (13)… Flee (14)… Pray (18)… Do not be deceived (21-22)… Be on your guard (23)… Be on your guard (33)… Be alert (33)… Watch (35)… Watch! (37).   Can you answer these four questions? 1. What do we need to "watch out”/be on our guard for? 2. How can we stay alert without being anxious? - ““Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1 ESV)      - “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”” (Matthew 28:20 ESV) 3. What helps us to stand firm when under attack? - “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1 NIV11) - “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,” (Ephesians 6:14 NIV11) - “So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.” (2Thess 2:15 NIV11) 4. What prevents us from being deceived? - 1 Cor 15:33 “Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” - “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (1John 1:8 ESV)      - “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7 ESV) Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we take a look at one of the most confusing, yet, also surprisingly practical chapters from the gospel of Mark. I do my best to give an overview of the meaning of the abomination that causes desolation and the other extraordinary predictions of Jesus. In the end, however, we must reckon with the warnings in this chapter. “Watch out (5)… Do not be alarmed (7)… Be on your guard (9)… Do not worry (11)… stand firm (13)… Flee (14)… Pray (18)… Do not be deceived (21-22)… Be on your guard (23)… Be on your guard (33)… Be alert (33)… Watch (35)… Watch! (37).   Can you answer these four questions? 1. What do we need to "watch out”/be on our guard for? 2. How can we stay alert without being anxious? - ““Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1 ESV)      - “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”” (Matthew 28:20 ESV) 3. What helps us to stand firm when under attack? - “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1 NIV11) - “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,” (Ephesians 6:14 NIV11) - “So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.” (2Thess 2:15 NIV11) 4. What prevents us from being deceived? - 1 Cor 15:33 “Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” - “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (1John 1:8 ESV)      - “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7 ESV) Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we examine what it means to love God with everything we have, and our neighbour as ourself. What does it mean, and what does it not mean to love God in this way? Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we examine what it means to love God with everything we have, and our neighbour as ourself. What does it mean, and what does it not mean to love God in this way? Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we look at a king on a colt. Why was Jesus riding a colt into Jerusalem? Wasn't he bothered by people throwing their cloaks on the ground in front of him? What did it mean that the crowd shouted about the kingdom, and David? Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ, Stefan Wolmarans examines the teaching of Jesus regarding servant leadership. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ, Stefan Wolmarans examines the teaching of Jesus regarding servant leadership. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ we look at a king on a colt. Why was Jesus riding a colt into Jerusalem? Wasn't he bothered by people throwing their cloaks on the ground in front of him? What did it mean that the crowd shouted about the kingdom, and David? Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ, we explore the issue of iffy faith. How much faith do we need, and how should we react when something appears to be impossible? Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

In this sermon for the Watford Church of Christ, we explore the issue of iffy faith. How much faith do we need, and how should we react when something appears to be impossible? Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Handout We take a look at a man who sees people walking like trees (whatever that means?!) and the lessons for followers of Jesus today. What do we see? Who do we see? This was a sermon for the Watford church of Christ. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Handout We take a look at a man who sees people walking like trees (whatever that means?!) and the lessons for followers of Jesus today. What do we see? Who do we see? This was a sermon for the Watford church of Christ. Please add your comments on this week's topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here's the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you'd like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm