The Cranmer Group Podcast

Looking at 1 Corinthians 1:18-end, and John 2:1-11, Bronwen explores the connections between wisdom and foolishness, in the context of miracles. 

Looking especially at Jesus's calling of his first disciples in Matthew 4:12-23, Tim explores how, as we choose to follow him as his disciples, Christ accepts each one of us as we are - but never leaves us as we are. 

Tim leads us in reflecting on two of the 'Areas of Focus' in our draft Cranmer Group Strategy, about which he spoke after the service in Orston this Sunday. With reference to John 1:29-42, and our practices of prayer and discipleship as we follow Jesus, he asks us to consider where - and especially in whom - we "abide". And then, looking at 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, he encourages us that we can inspired by the the Christians of Corinth who, despite all their failings as a community of believers, were full of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and secure in their salvation, all thanks to the grace of God. Just like them, we can be also!

Each one of us has been offered a priceless and personal gift by Jesus. Have we unwrapped it? And if we have, have we discovered what it is?

At the start of a New Year, and looking at Revelation 3:14-22 and Matthew 5:1 and 13-16, Annie leads us through some reflections on what this might mean for each of us personally, and where we might begin.

Drawing on the Scriptures of Isaiah 60:1-6 and Matthew 2:1-12, Tim shows us how the gifts to the Christ-child from the Magi point us to him - Jesus, the Greatest Gift of All.

Reflecting on Isaiah 63:7-9 and especially Matthew 2:13-18, Tim helps us to explore how we can have confidence that - in spite of the suffering of the innocent - the redemptive work of Jesus is certain, and it is true.

Annie rounds off our Advent series, reminding us of God’s abiding presence with us, as we journey with the Holy Spirit towards Christmas, waiting expectantly for the promised return of Jesus. Readings: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-19 and Matthew 24:36-44.

Drawing on Isaiah 25:1-10 and Matthew 11:2-11, Bron encourages us to keep on praying; keep being expectant; and keep being patient. God's grace is sufficient, and He will bring to us what we need, even if it is not what we expected!

Annie continues Tim’s theme for Advent for us all to be vigilant, prayerful and active. She reminds us, referring to Psalm 98 and Luke 2:1-6, that Christmas is part of a far bigger story which is still being played out. We are called during Advent to be vigilant, expectant and joyful in anticipation of the return of Jesus.

Tim reflects on what God calls us to do, as we wait on Him in this Advent season, drawing on Romans 13:11-14, and Matthew 24:36-44.