Sermons – St Bart's Anglican Church (Toowoomba)

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the second sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Evil Tempter’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Luke 4:1-13

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.

The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’”

The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. If you worship me, it will all be yours.”

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”

The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here. For it is written:

“‘He will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you carefully;
they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”

Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”

When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time.

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: As we think about encountering Jesus, what opportunities do your friends have this year to encounter Jesus through your words, invitation, or your actions?

WARM-UP

1. What do you think most Australians would think about the devil? How about evil more generally?

2. Is evil real? Why is it equally in error to either: disbelieve in evil or be excessively interested in evil?

Read Luke 4:1-2

1. Where did the Holy Spirit actively lead Jesus? What would it have been like? Why was this necessary?

2. How is it evident that there werenʼt just a few temptations but that Jesus was constantly bombarded over this entire 40-day period? What do you think this would have been like?

3. What is meant by Jesus being tempted? Have you ever had a time of particular testing/temptation?

4. What is the parallel between Jesusʼ 40 days in the wilderness and Israelʼs 40 years of wandering?

5. How would Jesus faithfully fulfil what Israel had failed to do?

6. How is Jesusʼ humanness evident in these verses? Why is this of great encouragement to us?

Read Luke 4:3-13

1. Preceding this passage (i.e., 3:21-22), who did the Father just declare Jesus to be? Why does Satan repetitively seek to undermine this truth? What is the enemyʼs goal?

2. How would you describe the three tactics used by the enemy? Are any a challenge for you?

3. Do you think the enemy ever uses similar tactics to tempt us away from Godʼs plan and will?

4. Under what conditions are you most susceptible to succumb to temptation?

5. How does Jesus confront each of the three temptations? How is this a model for us?

6. What resources has God given us to resist temptation? What does he provide when we fall short?

7. What have you found most helpful in resisting temptation? What do you find most challenging?

8. Why does verse 13 mean? When would be the most opportune time?

9. How is Jesusʼ death and resurrection the ultimate triumph over the schemes of the evil one?

APPLY: How can Jesusʼ example better equip you to actively resist the temptations of the enemy?

Gracious God, thank you that whilst Jesus was tempted in every way as we are, he did not sin. Please help

us to identify temptation, rely on your strength, flee from sin, and rejoice in your forgiveness. Amen.

On Your Frontline This Week: In February, where do you see Jesus’ priorities on your calendar?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO: “Luke 4:1-13” by Tim Keller (Paid)

• AUDIO: “Power of Satan” by Dick Lucas

• AUDIO: “Test trials passed” on Luke 4:1-13 by William Taylor

• BOOK: “Did the Devil make me do it?” by Mike McKinley

• BOOK: “666 and All That Stuff” by John Dickson

• VIDEO: “The Satan and Demons” by the Bible Project
  

SERIES Resources:

• Series overview booklet

• Scripture Journal: for the Gospel of Luke. For example, https://bit.ly/3A6N9CO

• Book: The Infographic Bible by Karen Sawrey (the visualisations of the way in which people interacted with Jesus are particularly helpful): https://bit.ly/341gAdI

• Book: Luke for Everyone by Tom Wright: https://bit.ly/3Iexkgh

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Wat...

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the first sermon in our series on the Encountering Jesus from Luke. This sermon is ‘The Waiting Prophet’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Luke 2:21-28

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord” ), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:

  “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,

you may now dismiss your servant in peace.

For my eyes have seen your salvation,

which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:

a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

and the glory of your people Israel.”

The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: Who are THREE people on your frontlines whom you long to become followers of Jesus? What would practically help you cultivate a habit of praying for them daily?

WARM-UP

1. Have you ever had a life-changing encounter with someone?

2. Can you remember the first time you heard about Jesus or the first time you gave your life to him? How did you react? Try to see if you can craft this into a short paragraph to be able to use when you’re telling people about Jesus!

Read Luke 2:21-32

1. What were all the rituals that Jesus went under? Why did he go through all of these? What does this tell us about the nationality and background of Jesus?

2. What was Simeon waiting for? Why was Israel in need of consolation?

3. Why was Simeon so content and satisfied in seeing this baby? What did Simeon see in him?

4. Is the salvation that Jesus offers limited to only Israelites or only those in church? Why/why not?

5. How is Jesus the light for all the nations? What does light do?

6. What other things in this world may we try to find satisfaction or salvation in? How can we ensure we look to Jesus for these things?

Luke 2:33-38

1. In what ways do we see Simeon’s prophesy in V34-35 fulfilled in Jesus’ lifetime and even to this day? Why do you think Jesus causes this much division?

2. How does Jesus reveal the thoughts of our hearts? Where or to whom can we run when we know we haven’t lived as he has called us to live?

3. What are we told about Anna? How did she react to seeing Jesus?

4. What could help you grow in your awe and wonder at who Jesus is and what he has done?

APPLY: As we think about encountering Jesus, what opportunities do your friends have this year to encounter Jesus through your words, invitation, or your actions?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the salvation and satisfaction that is found in Jesus. Thank you for the faithful patience of Simeon and Anna, and help us to find our joy and fulfilment in knowing and being known by Jesus. Give us opportunities this year to tell others about our encounter and relationship with you. Amen.

On Your Frontline This Week: In February, where do you see Jesus’ priorities on your calendar?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO: “The Nunc Dimittis” by Kent Hughes:

• AUDIO: “The Song of Simeon” by Alistair Begg:

• AUDIO: “Luke 2:22-38” by Dick Lucas

• VIDEO: God’s Story: Anna and Simeon
  

SERIES Resources:

• Series overview booklet

• Scripture Journal: for the Gospel of Luke. For example, https://bit.ly/3A6N9CO

• Book: The Infographic Bible by Karen Sawrey (the visualisations of the way in which people interacted with Jesus are particularly helpful): https://bit.ly/341gAdI

• Book: Luke for Everyone by Tom Wright: https://bit.ly/3Iexkgh

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Watch the eBook

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the fourth sermon in our series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘COMMISSION: Make Disciples’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Matthew 28:16-20

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: How could you grow in your love for God and neighbour in 2022?

WARM-UP

1. What are the most memorable ‘final instructions’ that you have given or received before going away?

2. In what way are all disciples of Jesus disciple-making disciples? How are we all sent?

Read Matthew 28:16-20

1. What has happened up to this point in Matthew 28? What do you think the disciples were expecting to happen as they waited for Jesus?

2. What do the disciples do when they see Jesus? What does this tell us about who they thought Jesus was?

3. Is it surprising that - as a group - worship was intermingled with doubt? How can this be true for us?

4. How comprehensive is the authority that has been given to Jesus? Is there anyone with more?

5. How is Jesus’ authority the basis for being sent? How should this drive and give us confidence?

6. If our purpose as disciples comes from Jesus (i.e., from outside of us), how is this counter-cultural?

7. How is it exciting to know that we’ve been caught up in a purpose greater than ourselves?

(Re) Read Matthew 28:19-20

1. What do you think it means to make disciples, teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded?

2. In what area of your life has God been recently teaching you greater obedience?

3. What is the link between baptism and the making of disciples? How are we involved in this?

4. What are the frontlines to which Jesus has sent you? Can you name three people on your frontlines whom you long to become passionate followers of Jesus?

5. How are Christians sometimes in danger of turning the ‘Great Commission’ into the ‘Great Omission’?

6. How is it tremendous Good News that as we are sent, that Jesus is with us? How can we cultivate a life that is shaped by activity for Jesus and intimacy with Jesus?

7. If we are sent on the basis of Jesus’ authority and with his presence, what confidence should that give us as we seek to make disciples on our frontlines? How can this encourage you this week?

APPLY: Who are THREE people on your frontlines whom you long to become followers of Jesus? What would practically help you cultivate a habit of praying for them daily?

Gracious God, thank you that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus! Please help us to identify disciple-making opportunities on all of our frontlines - that our life’s purpose will be shaped by your mission to the world. Thank you that we do not do this alone, but with the very power of Jesus. Amen. 


On Your Frontline This Week: What does it look like to prioritise Jesus on your frontline? What might you adopt, stop, or focus on this year?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• ARTICLE: “What is a Whole-Life Disciple?” by the London Institute of Christianity

• AUDIO: “The Authority of the Risen Lord” by John Stott

• AUDIO: “Why Jesus when there are so many options?” by Kanishka Raffel

• AUDIO: “The Resurrection and the Great Commission” by William Taylor

• BOOK: “The Radical Disciple” by John Stott

SERIES Resources:

• Series overview

• BOOK: “Resilient Disciples” by Rick Hill

• BOOK: “Need to Know” by Gary Millar

• ARTICLE: “What is a Whole-Life Disciple” by LICC (London Institute of Contemporary Christianity)

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Watch the eBook

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the third sermon in our series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘COMMANDMENT: Love God and Neighbour’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-34

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

“Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: In 2022, what is one way in which you need to bring the use of your time, talents, and treasures more into line with the priorities of Jesus?

WARM-UP

1. What do you think the people on your frontlines think Christianity is all about?

2. How is the Christian story different to these possible misconceptions?

Read Mark 12:28-31

1. Why were the Pharisees and teachers of the law trying to have Jesus arrested? How were they attempting to do this?

2. What was the motivation of this teacher who approaches Jesus in V28? Why was his question to intriguing for the Rabbis of the day?

3. What was the first part of Jesus’ answer? Why is this statement foundational for all the other commandments?

4. In what ways are we commanded to love God? How does this look for you practically?

5. Read 1 John 2:15. What then are we not to love? Where is it tempting to love the world rather than God? What could help you avoid these temptations?

6. Who are are neighbours? To what extent are we to love our neighbours?

7. How could you share your love to your neighbours on your frontlines this year?

Read Mark 12:32-33

1. Why will attempting perfection not work in attempting to follow the commandments? If we have been saved by grace, why then are we to obey God?

2. What is at the heart of us following God’s commandments? What attitude should we have towards God in obeying him?

3. If the teacher wasn’t far from the kingdom, how do we gain entrance into the kingdom?

APPLY: How could you grow in your love for God and neighbour in 2022?

Heavenly Father, thank you that you are the creator, that you are the only God, and that you have revealed yourself and the way you want us to live in your word. We are sorry for when we haven’t loved you as we ought, when we haven’t loved our neighbours as ourselves. Please help us this year to grow in our love for you and our obedience to you as we grow in our knowledge of you and your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


On Your Frontline This Week: What does it look like to prioritise Jesus on your frontline? What might you adopt, stop, or focus on this year?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO: “The Greatest Commandment” by Chase Kuhn

• AUDIO: “First Commandment, First Sin” by Don Carson

• AUDIO: “Four Questions for Obeying the First Commandment” by Kevin DeYoung

• BOOK: “Holiness” by J C Ryle

SERIES Resources:

• Series overview

• BOOK: “Resilient Disciples” by Rick Hill

• BOOK: “Need to Know” by Gary Millar

• ARTICLE: “What is a Whole-Life Disciple” by LICC (London Institute of Contemporary Christianity)

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Watch the eBook

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the second sermon in our series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘CROSS: Who do you say that I am?’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: Mark 8:27-38

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?”

They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”

Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.”

Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.

He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him.

But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: Spend some time considering how to prioritise Jesus this year, and think of 3 ways to go about it. WARM-UP

1. Do you think you have more of a ‘head’ or ‘heart’ approach to priority-setting?

2. In our culture, how do we typically place ourselves at the centre of decision-making when it comes to priority setting? How does a Gospel approach to priority-setting differ?

Read Mark 8:27-29

1. What is the question that Jesus first asks the disciples? What were the range of answers?

2. What were some of the other ideas about Jesus’ identity reported elsewhere in the Gospels? What are some of the most common ideas today about who Jesus is?

3. How does Jesus make the question personal? How is this question also personal to us?

4. If you have not really considered this question before, how might you explore it in 2022?

Read Mark 8:29-33

1. What is Peter’s response to Jesus’ question? Does this mean Peter understands correctly?

2. How does Jesus fundamentally connect his Messiahship with the cross (and resurrection)?

3. Why would the news that Jesus had to die (and rise) been so shocking to those listening?

4. Why does Jesus rebuke Peter’s response so harshly? Why must Jesus die?

Read Mark 8:34-38

1. What does it mean to deny ourselves and to take up the cross? What does it not mean?

2. In what ways is following Jesus costly? Are there examples of people who come to mind?

3. Why is it worth laying down our lives for Jesus?

4. How have you embraced the cost of following Jesus? How does it involve your time, talents, and treasure?

APPLY: In 2022, what is one way in which you need to bring the use of your time, talents, and treasures more into line with the priorities of Jesus?

Gracious God, thank you for the phenomenal truth of who Jesus is! Please help us to recognise his beauty and embrace the cost of following him with our entire lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 


On Your Frontline This Week: What daily rhythm is going to help you live for Jesus in 2022?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO: What does it mean to be a Christian by William Taylor

• AUDIO: Identity: Who do you say I am by Chris Wright

• AUDIO: The King on a Cross by Tim Keller

SERIES Resources:

• Series overview

• BOOK: “Resilient Disciples” by Rick Hill

• BOOK: “Need to Know” by Gary Millar

• ARTICLE: “What is a Whole-Life Disciple” by LICC (London Institute of Contemporary Christianity)

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Watch the eBook

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the first sermon in our new series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘CALL: Repent, Believe, Follow’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 1:14-20

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”

As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.

When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: In what ways could you grow in the knowledge of God and humility?

WARM-UP

1. As the people of the world set priorities and goals for the new year, how do you think they go about it? What drives their decision making?

2. As we consider the year ahead, who and what should drive our priorities for the year?

Read Mark 1:14-15

1. What is the good news of God according to Jesus?

2. What does he mean by saying that the time has come and that the kingdom of God has come near?

3. How has Jesus been promised to his people before he came? What is the kingdom of God?

4. On the basis of this statement of fact, what are the two things that Jesus calls us to do?

5. When the world hears the word ‘repent’ what do you think they think it means? What is a more biblical definition of repentance?

6. How would you describe repentance to a friend who doesn’t know Jesus yet on your frontlines?

7. In what ways is belief different to just an academic acknowledgment; a shot in the dark; or a leap of faith?

8. How would you describe belief to a friend who doesn’t know Jesus yet on your frontlines?

9. Why is what we believe in good news? Does the world see the gospel as good news?

10. Is there anything that is stopping you or holding you back from repentance and belief in Jesus?

Read Mark 1:16-20

1. What is the third call of Jesus? How is following Jesus different to following a celebrity, a politician, or even a brand?

2. What are we to follow Jesus with? How does this shape the way that we prioritise things this year?

3. Is there anything that you tend to prioritise more before following Jesus? Bring it to him in prayer and maybe ask a good friend to keep you accountable.

APPLY: Spend some time considering how to prioritise Jesus this year, and think of 3 ways to go about it.

Gracious God, thank you for the amazing hope that we have in Jesus. As we look ahead for the new year and the rest of our lives, please help us to prioritise you and respond to your call faithfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


On Your Frontline This Week: What daily rhythm is going to help you live for Jesus in 2022?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO: “Jesus: His Message and His Mission” by Alistair Begg

• AUDIO: “Kingdom News” by Simon Manchester

• AUDIO: “Mark 1:14-45” by Dick Lucas

• AUDIO: “The Lord’s Fisherman” by John Stott

SERIES Resources:

• Series overview

• BOOK: “Resilient Disciples” by Rick Hill

• BOOK: “Need to Know” by Gary Millar

• ARTICLE: “What is a Whole-Life Disciple” by LICC (London Institute of Contemporary Christianity)

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Watch the eBook

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is our final sermon in 2021. This sermon is ‘New Year: Live for Jesus’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Philippians 1:27-2:11

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

Who, being in very nature God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
    and gave him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: How can you grow in BOTH your experience and expression of God’s love this Christmas?

WARM-UP

1. Do you have any New Year’s resolutions? How have you gone in the past with them? Do you think that this year will be any different?

2. Why do you think the world puts so much emphasis on the New Year?

Read Philippians 1:27-30

1. What does the word to ‘conduct’ mean? How are we made citizens of the gospel?

2. What is the main emphasis in these verses?

3. Why is unity important? Where have you seen this not lived out? Where have you seen it lived out effectively?

4. If someone was to look in the windows at St Bart’s, what type of church would they see? What could disrupt our unity?

5. How could we ensure that we stand firm together in the face of pressure from the world? What practical measures could we put in place?

Read Philippians 2:1-11

1. From what basis does Paul urge us to live in humility? What would make his joy most complete?

2. Does this mean that we all have to be the same in everything? Why/why not? What unites us?

3. What is the rule of humility in living as one people? What happens when someone is not humble?

4. What is the measure of humility that Paul references? How is this distinct from all other religions?

5. In what specific ways has Jesus shown us humility? To what extent are we to be humble?

6. How does the world view humility? Is it easier for us as Christians to show humility? Why/why not?

7. Who should now be at the centre of our lives and object of our worship? In what ways is Jesus greater than all things?

8. In the new year, what rhythms and patterns could help us grow as one and grow in humility?

Apply In what ways could you grow in the knowledge of God and humility?

Gracious God, thank you that you loved us so much that you would be so humble even to death on a cross. Help us as your people to be one, that the world may know of your love, and keep us from pride and selfish ambition. May we be a church that continues to make and mature disciples of you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

On Your Frontline This Week: What daily rhythm is going to help you live for Jesus in 2022?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO: “Worthy of the Gospel” by Simon Manchester

• AUDIO: “Adopt Jesus’ Death as the Test of Your Outlook” by Don Carson

• AUDIO: “Humility” by John Stott

• AUDIO: “Imitating the Incarnation” by Tim Keller

• BOOK: “Humilitas” by John Dickson

• ARTICLE: “3 Bookmarks and a Bible” by Brian Rosner

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Watch the eBook

Sermon & Small Group Resources

Listen to our sermon from Christmas 2021. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe

DOWNLOAD the Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the fourth of our Advent sermon series for 2021. This sermon is ‘Love Lavished on Us’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: 1 John 4:7-21

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.

God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.

This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.

Download in PDF format..

CONNECT: How can the depth of joy in Jesus transform one trouble that you’re currently experiencing?

WARM-UP

1. What do you think the world’s standard of love is? How does this compare to God’s love?

2. What has been your most positive experience of God’s love in the context of Christian community?

Read 1 John 4:7-10

1. What is meant by “God is love”? What does it mean for God to be the author and source of love?

2. Why is saying “love is God” different from John’s claim that “God is love”?

3. How does disconnecting our understanding of love from God ultimately result in us either worshipping the idea of love and/or adopting a diminished view of love?

4. As per the passage, what is God’s standard of love? What has been your experience of this?

5. What causes you to marvel most about the nature of God’s love?

6. Do you ever struggle with accepting God’s love? What has helped? What has not helped?

7. How can we grow in our appreciation and acceptance of God’s extraordinary love for us?

Read 1 John 4:11-21

1. How does God equip and enable us to love in such an extraordinary way? Is there something in particular that you need to ask for help with from God in order to love others more?

2. What does perfect love drive out? What does this mean in the context of judgment?

3. How is our act of loving others actually a declaration of God to the world? If we fail to love, how can this reflect on God?

4. How do you see God’s love expressed in the context of our community? How could we grow in this?

5. Why is hating others incompatible with a claim to love God? What was happening in John’s context?

6. In a society the is fractured on many fronts, how can we - at St Bart’s - demonstrate God’s love even amidst disagreement? How can we remind one another of the things of ‘first importance’?

Apply How can you grow in BOTH your experience and expression of God’s love this Christmas?

Gracious Father, we thank you that it is because of Jesus that we may know joy through all in the power of the Holy Spirit. Please help us to know your joy and share it with the world. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


On Your Frontline This Week: In this season, meals can be an amazing opportunity for relationships and pointing to God. How can you use grace at meals to point to Jesus this Christmas?

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO: “Perfected in Love” by Charlie Skrine

• AUDIO: “The Love of God” by Tom Wright:

• AUDIO (PAID): “Love” by David Bisgrove:

Series Resources:

Some helpful resources for our Series:

• Series overview both in PDF and Audiobook

• Advent Devotional by Tim and Kathy Keller

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Watch the eBook

Sermon & Small Group Resources

This is the third of our Advent sermon series for 2021. This sermon is ‘Joy that Completes’. Preacher: The Rev’d Adam Lowe. Bible Reading: John 16:16-33

DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).

Next Steps this Week

Jesus went on to say, “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.”

At this, some of his disciples said to one another, “What does he mean by saying, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,’ and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” They kept asking, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We don’t understand what he is saying.”

Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

“Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father. In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.”

Then Jesus’ disciples said, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God.”

“Do you now believe?” Jesus replied. “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.

“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.”

Download in PDF format.

CONNECT: What one thing will help you to better celebrate Christmas this year?

WARM-UP

1. What do you think is the difference is between happiness and Christian joy?

2. Do you know a Christian who has been a great example of joy amidst challenge?

Read John 16:16-22 (Parting is Temporary)

1. Why do you think the disciples were so confused? What would they have been feeling?

2. What did Jesus mean by saying he must go but that they would see him ‘in a little while’?

3. What image does Jesus compare our present sufferings with? What does he mean by this?

4. Who can take away our joy? How should this be a source of great comfort and confidence?

5. What most is troubling you? How can Jesus’ resurrection and return be a source of joy for you?

6. As we await Jesus’ return, how does our future joy impinge upon today in the power of the Spirit?

Read John 16:23-28 (Present Relationship)

1. What does Jesus mean in verse 23? Does this mean God will give us anything we ask for?

2. How should praying in Jesus’ name cause us to come to God in both humility and confidence?

3. Through Jesus, with what type of intimacy are we grafted into relationship with God?

4. How can you experience intimacy with God more readily and more frequently?

Read John 16:29-33 (Permanent Victory)

1. What is meant by the disciples' joy being complete? What would it look like for your joy to be complete in and through Jesus?

2. Why - even in the inevitably of facing trouble - should the disciples ‘take heart’? Why should we?

3. What should you be asking of God this advent? Would what it look like to pray confidently this Christmas in accordance with what motivates God?

Apply How can the depth of joy in Jesus transform one trouble that you’re currently experiencing?

Gracious Father, we thank you that it is because of Jesus that we may know joy through all in the power of the Holy Spirit. Please help us to know your joy and share it with the world. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


On Your Frontline This Week: It is not too late for a last minute invite to Carols. Who would want to miss a night of glowsticks & joy?!

Listen, Watch, and Read:

• AUDIO (Paid): “Infallible Joy” by Tim Keller

• AUDIO: “Joy while we wait” by William Taylor

• AUDIO: “Surprised by Joy” by Dick Lucas

• SONG: “Joy to Be” by Citizens

Series Resources:

Some helpful resources for our Series:

• Series overview both in PDF and Audiobook

• Advent Devotional by Tim and Kathy Keller

Grow as Families

Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.

Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray

High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions

Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk

eBook: Wat...