St Jude's Southsea

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 25 May 2025.

The readings were from 2 Kings 4:1-7 and John 2:1-11. In his talk, Simon Mitchell shared about the work of Tearfund, a Christian relief and development agency. He highlighted how Tearfund's Church and Community Transformation programme helps people in poverty to identify their resources and potential, and to work together to bring about change in their communities. Simon encouraged us to partner with Tearfund through prayer and financial support, to help transform lives around the world.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 18 May 2025. The reading was from 1 Peter 1:13-21.

In this talk, Richard explores the theme of hope, emphasising that for Christians, hope is a firm confidence rooted in trust in God's promises and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He challenges us to make belief in and experience of Christ's resurrection our daily pattern, letting it shape our attitudes and actions. Richard encourages us to be "fully invested in hope," staking everything on the trustworthiness of God's promise, just as the parables of the hidden treasure and pearl of great price illustrate.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 11 May 2025. The reading was 1 Peter 1:10-12.

In this insightful talk, Jane Portlock explores the themes of prophecy, patience and proclamation. She reflects on how the prophets searched intently for the time and circumstances of the Messiah's coming, demonstrating patience in waiting for God's timing. Jane challenges us to embrace our responsibility to proclaim the message of hope, just as the angels longed to look into these things. She encourages us to step into leadership roles and be part of the driving force behind the church's ministry, supported by the clergy team.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 4th May 2025. The reading was from 1 Peter 1:6-9.

In this talk, Steve explores the theme of suffering in the Christian life. Drawing on examples from Star Wars, personal experience, and the life of an elderly congregation member, he highlights how God can use trials to refine our faith, draw us closer to Jesus, and fill us with inexpressible joy. The speaker encourages us to rejoice in suffering, resist Satan's lies, and rely on the Holy Spirit's help to endure. Ultimately, our hope is found in Christ's finished work on the cross and the promise of future glory.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 27th April 2025. The reading was 1 Peter 1:1-5.

In this talk, Rachel explores the concept of living hope, comparing it to a dormant seed that contains the potential for life. She explains that through Jesus' resurrection, we have a confident expectation of future good. Despite facing challenges and suffering, we can trust in God's unfailing hope. Rachel encourages the congregation to look for signs of life in difficult situations and to share this living hope with others in Southaea who do not yet know Jesus.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 30th March 2025. The reading was Jeremiah 38:1-13.

In this talk, the Adam summarises the book of Jeremiah, emphasising its themes of perseverance, perspective, and promise. Despite facing persecution for proclaiming God's truth, Jeremiah persevered. His prophecies offer a divine perspective that challenges our assumptions. The story ends with a reminder of God's promise and hope, even amidst difficult circumstances. The vicar encourages us to listen to and act on God's word today, trusting in His plans.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 23rd March 2025. The reading was from Jeremiah 34:8-20.

In this thought-provoking talk, Andrew explores the concept of freedom and how we can gain it by battling spiritual strongholds. He discusses the Church of England's struggle with clericalism and the need for lay people to be equipped and empowered to serve God in their daily lives. Andrew shares his personal journey of overcoming rejection and emotional shutdown, emphasising the importance of consistent obedience and prayer in breaking free from strongholds. Ultimately, he reminds us that God wins, and encourages us to be willing to be fools for Jesus.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on 16th March 2025. The reading was Jeremiah 33:10-22.

In this talk, David explores God's steadfast love and faithfulness to His promises, even in times of doubt and struggle. He highlights three areas of promise: restoration for the people of Israel, the coming of the Saviour, and eternal promises. David emphasises that God longs for a deep relationship with His people, inviting us to return to Him and accept His forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on Sunday 9th March. The reading was from Jeremiah 32:1-15, 36-44.

In this talk, Adam explores the theme of being "all in" for God, using Jeremiah's obedient purchase of a field at God's command, even as Jerusalem faced imminent destruction. Are we fully invested in God, in His church, and in His future plans, trusting in His faithfulness? Adam challenges us to courageously follow God's leading without holding back.

This is the talk from our 10:45 service on Sunday 2nd March 2025. The reading was Jeremiah 31:31-34.

In this talk, David explores the new covenant that God offers through the prophet Jeremiah. Despite the Judeans' past wrongdoings and the dire consequences they faced, God promises to forgive them, write his law on their hearts, and enable them to know him intimately. David connects this promise to Jesus' words at the Last Supper and Paul's teachings in Romans, showing how this new covenant is now available to all who put their trust in Christ. The talk invites listeners to seek God's forgiveness, desire what he wants, and grow in knowing him personally and through the community of believers.