In this episode of Behind the Sermon, we explore the fascinating world of textural criticism, a journey that explores the text of John’s Gospel, the surprising identity of Jesus, and Isaiah’s suffering servant.

Tom Richards shows how John the Baptist points beyond himself to Jesus Christ, the greater prophet, the promised Messiah, and the fulfilment of God’s plan. From Moses to Elijah to Christ, this sermon traces the great prophetic sweep of Scripture and calls us to behold the greatness of Jesus.

In this episode of Behind the Sermon, we tackle a misunderstood phrase in John’s Gospel: ‘the Jews.’ Why does John speak this way when Jesus, John the Baptist, and the disciples are all Jewish themselves? As we explore the priests, Levites, Pharisees, and the tension surrounding John the Baptist’s ministry, we begin to uncover a deeper question about authority, identity, and what it means to belong to the people of God.

Tom Richards shows that Jesus Christ is God’s greatest revelation – greater than John the Baptist and greater than the law – the one and only Son. This revelation eclipses all others, as grace surpassing previous grace.

In this episode of Behind the Sermon, we take a closer look at a debated phrase in John’s Gospel: “grace in place of grace” or “grace upon grace.” What seems like a minor translation difference opens up a much bigger question about the law and the fullness of God’s grace revealed in Christ.

Tom Richards shows how two groups emerge in John 1:6–13: the world and the children of God, and explains the fundamental distinction between them. Centred on the question of how someone becomes a child of God, this sermon explores conversion, evangelism, free will, and the sovereignty of God.

In this episode of Behind the Sermon, we explore John 1:9–10 and ask what John means by “the world.” By tracing how the term is used across the Gospel, we uncover a deeper picture of humanity in need of life and light. Along the way, this sheds light on the meaning of John 3:16 and the extent of God’s grace. 

Tom Richards walks us through the first five verses of John’s Gospel, showing how John introduces Jesus through the great themes of creation, revelation, and salvation.

Tom Richards gets into the weeds of John 1:1, tackling the controversies surrounding its translation

Our guest, Andrew Fox, preaches on the thief on the cross, challenging us to examine the passage that gives our church its name.