What ways does Jesus give to grow our faith? First, to recognize the little mustard seed with which we begin. Then, to speak about it. Thirdly, by exercising it in prayer, in preparation, in attending to relationships based on forgiveness, and in doing Jesus' work. [ Organ - Pentecost 20 ]

The story Jesus told of the rich man in hell looking up at the beggar Lazarus in heaven is a deeply challenging one. If nothing else, it reminds us that our actions on earth come from hearts devoted either to self-interest, or to the kingdom of God and therefore to the needs of those around us. And our choice has eternal consequences. May we seize the opportunity of a lifetime to accept the forgiveness offered by Christ and share his grace with those around us. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 19 ]

(Between the Gospel reading and the address in today's service, we had a rendition with orchestra, choir and soloists of J.S. Bach's cantata BVW 105, "Lord, do not pass judgement on Your servant".) There are some things money can't buy - health, relationships, and eternal life. For these things there's God. Jesus pays the price of his life to secure our future. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 18 - Bach Cantata BWV 105 ]

How very easy it is to get caught up in our own busyness, and not to notice wandering. This might be our brothers and sisters wandering away, or it might be our own wandering and loss of focus. Today's parables make clear that the heart of God is very much aware of those who wander, and that he pursues them. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 17 ]

How would Jesus do as a candidate in the recent Australian elections? Not too well: as always, his policies are counter-cultural. And if we are to be his disciples, responding in his love to his call to action, then we need to be counter-cultural as well. In some senses, we need to go against the grain in ourselves, too. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 16 ]

Jesus speaks against the social patterns of the day, patterns which measured social exchanges in terms of how they would benefit us. These same patterns pushed out the poor and suffering, including those with disabilities. Has much changed? Can we do more to be an inclusive community, one that reaches out like Jesus to embrace all his brothers and sisters?

[ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 15 ]

As all things do in this world, the church starts out natural. What are the characteristics that mark a supernatural church? [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 14 ]

Being filled with the Spirit is not a one-time act. Walking with the Spirit implies an on-going relationship. One that calls us into an active pursuit of the Spirit, following where the Spirit leads, depending on the Spirit, and keeping in step. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 13 ]

In our fifth in the series "Life in the Spirit", we examine one of the factors which makes the Christian church different from other human clubs and organisations. The Spirit opens up for us a real relationship with God the Father. Such a personal relationship is nothing less than new birth, such is the radical change in our nature and our identity. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 12 ]

Continuing our sermon series on Life in Spirit, we now examine why we seek the Spirit. Scriptures give us three good reasons. First is God himself, for his own sake. Second is for the sake of the church. And third, for the sake of the world. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 11 ]