This sermon explores the nature and purpose of spiritual gifts as described in 1 Corinthians 12, encouraging believers to discover, desire, and use their gifts to make the unseen reality of God visible for the benefit of the church.

This sermon explores the process of sanctification, arguing that true spiritual transformation into the image of Christ is not a self-help program but the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit. This change happens as we intentionally fix our gaze—our contemplation—on the glory of God revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. The central theme is a powerful truth: what we behold, we become.

This week on Calling a City to Life, the team dives into Romans 8 and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Iain unpacks what it means to be no longer slaves but sons, exploring adoption into God’s family, relocation from the old life, and renewal through the Spirit. Along the way, Jacq wrestles with moving house (and moving hearts), and Brodie highlights participation in God’s purposes. Meanwhile, Richard pitches a new TV show combo of The Chosen meets Succession.

Together, we reflect on:

• The difference between slavery and sonship

• Why adoption in the New Testament carried high honour

• How God shifts us into a new “location” in Christ

• Inheritance that doesn’t divide, but multiplies

Join us as we consider what it means to live as heirs with Christ—adopted, relocated, and renewed.

This sermon from Queen's Park Baptist Church explores Romans chapter 8, highlighting the profound transformation experienced by believers through the Holy Spirit. It delves into how individuals are liberated from slavery to sin, adopted into God's family, and empowered to live purposeful lives as co-heirs with Christ. The sermon emphasizes that this "change of location" and "change of status" provides acceptance, belonging, and a significant role in God's work, even amidst suffering.

This week on Calling a City to Life, Jacq and Richard welcome back Brodie – and special guest Josh Silver – to explore how the Holy Spirit meets our deepest human needs: love, guidance, and purpose.

Josh gives a 60-second recap of his recent sermon on John 14:15-27, and together they unpack:

• Why the Holy Spirit is the key to knowing we’re not left as orphans

• How God speaks to us in everyday ways (yes, even car number plates!)

• Practical ways to grow in sensitivity and awareness of the Spirit’s leading

• The difference between conviction and condemnation

• Partnering with the Spirit in mission – without pressure to “convert” people on the spot

• Why practice, mistakes, and boldness are part of Spirit-led growth

This is an encouraging and practical conversation about living a Spirit-empowered life every day — not just on Sundays.

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In this sermon, Josh encourages us to "Be Strong," sharing a powerful message about the Holy Spirit. He explores how the Spirit, our promised advocate, meets our fundamental human needs for love, guidance, and purpose. Drawing from John 14 and passages in Matthew, he explains how being Spirit-led helps us find our way in the world and fulfills the mission Christ has for each of us. Don't miss the story of his own personal experience with a word of conviction and an incredible moment of healing.

In this episode of 'Calling a City to Life', the hosts discuss the new season focusing on the Holy Spirit. They explore the importance of understanding the Holy Spirit's role in the Trinity, common questions about the Spirit, and the significance of the Spirit in the lives of believers. The conversation emphasizes the need for a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit and encourages listeners to engage with their faith through questions and community discussions.

Takeaways

The Holy Spirit is often depersonalized in discussions.

Understanding the Holy Spirit is crucial for spiritual growth.

Cessationism suggests that miraculous gifts have ceased, but the Spirit is still active.

The Spirit acts as an advocate and counselor in our lives.

The Spirit empowers believers and brings transformation.

Questions about the Holy Spirit are welcomed and encouraged.

The Spirit testifies about Jesus and points us to the Father.

The Trinity consists of three distinct persons working in unity.

The Spirit's work is cosmic and should not be limited to personal experiences.

Engaging with the Spirit can lead to a deeper understanding of faith.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to a New Season

01:08 Exploring the Holy Spirit

05:33 Understanding the Role of the Holy Spirit

05:58 Questions About the Holy Spirit

08:06 Interactive Church Services

09:12 The Personality of the Holy Spirit

09:57 Cessationism Explained

15:01 The Impact of the Holy Spirit

19:54 The Trinity and the Holy Spirit

21:46 Worship and Understanding the Trinity

26:13 Understanding the Disciples' Perspective

27:31 The Trinity in Second Temple Judaism

30:36 Exploring the Aspects of the Holy Spirit

35:11 The Holy Spirit as Advocate and Witness

40:48 Hopes for the Season on the Holy Spirit

Today’s message launches a new series on the Holy Spirit by looking at John 15:26, where Jesus promises to send the Paraclete — the Advocate, Helper, Comforter, and Witness. We explore why Jesus needed to prepare His disciples for life after His return to the Father, and how understanding the Spirit’s identity is key to living as followers of Christ today. Far from being a distant force or rare phenomenon, the Spirit is God’s presence with us — guiding, strengthening, comforting, and pointing us to Jesus. This talk invites us to open our hearts to know the Spirit personally, experience His transforming power, and grow together as God’s people in courage, love, and unity.

The team chat over the most recent sermon on Matthew Chapter 5

Iain starts our new series preaching from Matthew Chapter 4