What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 75 - 25/04/25

This week we are continuing our study into sex and sexuality - this week's topic is a look at Sexual Identity from a biblical perspective.

1. God Alone Defines Human Identity

Sexual identity begins with the truth that God, not man, is the Creator and Lawgiver. We are not self-authored. Genesis 1:27 shows that male and female were created in God’s image. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us that our bodies are not our own—we were bought with a price. Any attempt to define ourselves apart from God is rebellion against His rightful rule.

2. Sexual Identity Is Rooted in Creation, Not Desire

Our sexual identity is not determined by feelings, attractions, or inner impulses, but by God’s created design. In Genesis 2:24, man and woman are united in marriage as “one flesh”—God’s good plan for sexual expression. Psalm 139:13–16 confirms that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, male or female, from the womb, by God’s design.

3. The Fall Distorted, but Did Not Redefine, Sexuality

Sin has affected every part of human life, including our desires and sense of identity. Yet the Fall did not erase God’s design—it only introduced confusion and distortion. Romans 1:24–27 shows that turning from God results in dishonouring the body and unnatural desires. Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful. We must not follow it—we must be renewed in truth.

4. True Identity Is Found in Christ, Not Sexual Preference

In Christ, we receive a new identity—not defined by past behaviour, feelings, or desires, but by being a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares that anyone in Christ is made new. Galatians 2:20 says, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” Our truest self is not what we feel, but who we are in Christ.

5. The Body Matters: We Glorify God With It

Sexual identity is not just internal; it is lived out in the body. Scripture affirms the goodness and purpose of the body, and condemns all sexual sin—heterosexual or homosexual—that departs from God’s design. 1 Corinthians 6:13–18 calls us to flee sexual immorality and glorify God in our bodies. Romans 12:1 urges us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices.

6. The Church Must Speak Truth With Compassion

The Church must neither affirm sin nor ignore suffering. We are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), offering both correction and hope. Jesus did not condemn the sexually broken, but neither did He excuse sin (John 8:11). We must uphold biblical truth while showing the grace of Christ to those struggling with sexual identity.

7. The Gospel Offers Power to Change and Grace to Persevere

There is real hope for all who turn to Christ. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in those who believe. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 lists former sexual sinners who were “washed… sanctified… justified.” Transformation is possible, and ongoing grace is available, as we walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), not the flesh.

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly Bible Study.

Episode 74 - 11/04/25

This week we are looking at the difficult and very topical subject of Gender.

1. God Alone Defines Gender and Identity

God is the Creator and Owner of all life. Human beings do not belong to themselves but to God, who formed them with purpose and design. This includes our identity as male or female. As Genesis 1:27 states, God made humans “male and female” in His image. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us that we are not our own but were bought with a price, and therefore should glorify God with our bodies. Gender is not self-assigned; it is a God-given identity.

2. Gender Is Fixed and Rooted in Creation

From the start, God established two fixed sexes—male and female—as part of His good creation. These distinctions are foundational to human purpose and flourishing. In Genesis 1:26–28, God commands mankind to be fruitful and multiply, a task that requires male and female together. Genesis 2:18–24 shows the intentional difference and unity between man and woman, revealing gender as a deliberate and unchanging aspect of creation.

3. Men and Women Have Complementary Roles

Men and women are equal in value yet distinct in role, both by design and calling. These differences are not cultural constructs but divine appointments that reflect God's wisdom. 1 Peter 3:7 calls husbands to live with their wives in understanding, acknowledging their differences. Ephesians 5:22–33 shows how marriage reflects Christ and the Church. Distinct roles, when rightly understood, are not oppressive but glorify God through harmony and service.

4. Society Rejects God’s Design

Modern culture increasingly denies God’s pattern for gender and identity. What was once clear is now confused, even within some churches. But Jesus reaffirms God’s original intent in Matthew 19:4–6, pointing back to creation: “He who made them at the beginning made them male and female.” No matter how strong the cultural pressure, believers must hold to Scripture, not societal trends, as their final authority.

5. Gender Confusion Reflects Rebellion

The confusion around gender and sexuality is not merely a social issue—it reveals spiritual rebellion. Romans 1:18–32 describes how people suppress the truth, reject God, and are given over to degrading passions and a debased mind. Daniel 5:23 illustrates this rebellion in Belshazzar, who ignored the God who held his breath. When people reject God's design, they do not become free—they become enslaved to sin and confusion.

6. God’s Image Is Seen in Gender Distinction

Only humans bear God's image, and this image is expressed in the distinction between male and female. Even creation itself shows God's order and purpose (Romans 1:20), but humans uniquely reflect Him. Genesis 1:27 links being made in God’s image with being male and female. Satan attacks this design because he hates what reflects God. Confusion in gender is not found in animals, but it is tragically growing among those made in God’s likeness.

7. We Must Hold the Truth with Conviction and Love

In a culture that celebrates confusion, Christians must be anchored in God’s unchanging truth. Hebrews 2:1 warns us not to drift but to cling to what we’ve heard. John 8:31–32 reminds us that true freedom comes through abiding in Christ’s Word. We may not always have clever arguments, but firm belief and gracious conviction are powerful witnesses. Even when others reject God’s ways, we must remain faithful, trusting His Word above all.

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 73 - 28/03/25

This week we take a look at the topic of Angels.

1. Angels Exist and Always Have

Angels are created spiritual beings, present from the beginning of creation. They were already rejoicing when God laid the foundations of the earth (Job 38:7), and their existence is affirmed throughout Scripture—even as early as Genesis and as late as Revelation.

2. Belief in Angels Has Always Divided People

Even within religious communities, belief in angels has been disputed. The Sadducees denied the existence of angels, unlike the Pharisees who affirmed them (Acts 23:8–9), showing that scepticism toward angels is not a new phenomenon.

3. Angels Are Named and Differentiated

Only three angels are named in the Bible: Gabriel, the messenger (Luke 1:19; Daniel 8:16), Michael, the warrior and protector of Israel (Daniel 10:21; Jude 9), and Lucifer, traditionally identified with Satan (Isaiah 14:12). These named angels each have specific roles and representations in God’s plan.

4. Angels Are Created, Not Eternal or Omniscient

Angels were created by Christ and for Him, along with all other invisible and visible powers (Colossians 1:16). They are not all-knowing—Jesus says even the angels do not know the timing of His return (Matthew 24:36).

5. Angels Are Ministering Spirits and Guardians

Angels serve believers, offering protection, guidance, and encouragement. They are described as “ministering spirits sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14), and Jesus spoke of children's angels who always see the face of the Father (Matthew 18:10).

6. Angels Reflect God’s Glory and Obey His Will

Angels are worshippers who obey God perfectly and do His will without question. Psalm 103:20 praises “His angels, mighty in strength, who perform His word, obeying the voice of His word.” Their focus is always to point creation back to God, not to themselves (Revelation 19:10).

7. Angels Are Involved in the Outworking of Salvation

Angels are active throughout the redemptive story: announcing births (Luke 1:26–38), protecting the faithful (Daniel 6:22; Acts 12:7–11), and rejoicing when a sinner repents (Luke 15:10). They were present at Jesus' birth, His resurrection, and will come with Him at His return (Luke 2:13–14; Matthew 28:2–7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16).

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What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 72 - 14/03/25

Today we are taking a look at what the bible says about communion.

The Distinction Between Passover and Communion

Passover was instituted in Exodus 12:14 as a lasting ordinance for the Jewish people, commemorating their deliverance from Egypt through the blood of a lamb. Communion, as introduced by Jesus in Luke 22:19–20, marks the New Covenant and is for all believers. The key difference is that Passover was national and historical, while Communion is global and redemptive, pointing to Christ’s sacrificial death.

Covenants and Contracts

Biblical covenants, like the one God made with Abraham, are not mere agreements but solemn, relational promises. The term “cut a covenant” (Genesis 15:9–10) reflects the seriousness, sealed with blood. Unlike a contract, a covenant involves identity and commitment, particularly between a greater (God) and a lesser (human) party (Hebrews 6:13–17). This deeper commitment shows God’s grace in choosing to bind Himself to us.

God’s Covenant with Abraham

In Genesis 15:12–18, God alone passes between the sacrificial pieces, symbolized by a smoking fire pot and blazing torch, indicating that the covenant depends solely on Him. Abraham, in a deep sleep, plays no active role, highlighting that the promise is unconditional. This covenant becomes foundational for understanding God’s redemptive plan, later fulfilled in Christ (Galatians 3:16).

Passover: The Covenant Ratified in Egypt

In Exodus 12:21–23, God instructed the Israelites to mark their doors with lamb’s blood so the destroyer would pass over them. This act of obedience ratified their deliverance and echoed God’s promises to Abraham. The blood was essential, for Hebrews 9:22 says, “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” This Passover event foreshadowed Christ’s own role as the Lamb of God (John 1:29).

The New Covenant Foretold

Through Jeremiah 31:31–34, God promised a New Covenant unlike the one made at Sinai. This would not be based on external law, but internal transformation—God’s law written on hearts, sins forgiven, and relationship restored. This promise is fulfilled in Christ (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8:6–13), and through Him, Gentile believers are grafted into the promises made to Israel (Romans 11:17–24).

The Fulfilment at the Last Supper

At the Last Supper, Jesus redefined the Passover meal in Luke 22:15–20, offering bread and wine as symbols of His body and blood. This was a clear declaration that His death would establish the New Covenant. The cup He shared aligns with the third Passover cup—the “cup of redemption.” His body, like the unleavened Passover bread, was pierced and bruised (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26).

Communion Today: A Meal of Life and Unity

Communion today is a continuation of what the early church practiced in Acts 2:42, where believers devoted themselves to the breaking of bread. Jesus’ words in John 6:53–56 emphasize that unless we spiritually partake in His body and blood, we have no life. This is not about literal flesh and blood, but about intimate union with Christ. Paul also warns in 1 Corinthians 11:27–29 that we must examine ourselves to partake in a worthy manner—acknowledging the sacredness of the Lord’s body.

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 71 - 28/02/25

This week we continue our look at the life of Paul.

1. Paul on Trial Again — Standing Before Governors

This second study in our series on Paul picks up with him under arrest in Caesarea, standing before Governor Felix. The charges against him are brought by the high priest Ananias and a Roman lawyer named Tertullus, who presents a political and religious case based on flattery and falsehoods. Paul, in contrast, calmly defends his integrity and clarifies that his real offense is belief in the resurrection — a central part of Christian hope. His words show the growing divide between religious tradition and the gospel.

2. Courageous Clarity and the Cost of Integrity

Paul’s defence before Felix is bold, clear, and respectful. He affirms his belief in the Law and the Prophets and emphasizes a clear conscience before God. Though innocent, he remains imprisoned — not because of guilt, but because of politics and corruption. This stage of Paul’s journey highlights how following Christ sometimes means prolonged injustice, yet Paul shows no sign of compromise or complaint.

3. Felix's Fear and Conviction

Felix listens to Paul more than once, particularly intrigued when Paul speaks of righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. Felix is deeply disturbed but remains unchanged — a powerful reminder that conviction is not the same as repentance. Paul's faithfulness in delivering the whole truth, even to those in power, sets a strong example of fearless gospel witness.

4. A Strategic Appeal to Caesar

With a new governor in place, Paul’s situation could easily have worsened — especially as the Jewish leaders press again for his execution. Instead of risking an ambush, Paul exercises his Roman citizenship and appeals to Caesar. This wasn’t merely a legal strategy but a Spirit-led decision that aligns with Jesus’ earlier promise that Paul would testify in Rome. Paul uses both his rights and his discernment to remain on mission.

5. Gospel Witness in the Courts of the Powerful

As Festus brings Paul before King Agrippa and his sister Bernice, Paul finds himself in front of a powerful yet morally compromised audience. With no legal case against him, Paul seizes the opportunity not to defend himself — but to share his testimony and preach Christ. His speech shows remarkable courage and purpose: to persuade all, both great and small, to believe in Jesus.

6. “Not Disobedient to the Heavenly Vision”

Paul recounts his conversion on the road to Damascus, describing how Jesus called him to turn people from darkness to light. This moment is a cornerstone in understanding Paul’s life — everything he does flows from obedience to that vision. Before royalty and sceptics, Paul remains unwavering, proving that his apostleship and mission are rooted in God’s call, not personal ambition.

7. Paul: Chained Yet Unshaken

Though in chains, Paul speaks with more freedom than anyone else in the room. He doesn’t beg for release or seek favour; instead, he prays that all his listeners might become as he is — a follower of Christ. This second study reaffirms Paul’s unwavering commitment to the gospel. His chains do not silence him; they amplify his witness. In every trial, he sees opportunity — and that’s a mark of true gospel transformation.

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 70 - 14/02/25

This week we are looking at Paul the apostle.

Paul's Origins and Persecution of the Church

Paul (formerly Saul) first appears at the stoning of Stephen, actively persecuting the early church (Acts 7–8). His background as a zealous Pharisee and student of Gamaliel highlights both his religious dedication and his initial hostility toward Christians. This foundational background showcases the depth of transformation he later experiences.

A Radical Conversion Experience (Acts 9)

On the road to Damascus, Paul encounters the risen Jesus in a dramatic, supernatural moment. Blinded and humbled, he receives both physical and spiritual sight through Ananias. His immediate baptism and preaching demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit in conversion—he moves from persecutor to preacher overnight.

The Role of Grace and Transformation

Paul's story is a striking example of God's grace. His past isn't hidden but acknowledged as a testimony to God’s mercy. His radical transformation is used to emphasize that salvation comes not through merit, but by grace through faith in Christ alone. Paul's humility remains throughout his ministry.

Empowered by the Spirit, Not Just Knowledge

Though Paul had extensive knowledge of the Scriptures prior to his conversion, it is only through the Holy Spirit that he truly understands and applies them. His story underscores that genuine understanding of God’s Word comes through spiritual revelation, not just intellect.

God’s Sovereignty in Paul's Trials and Journey

As Paul faces opposition, arrests, and trials, God sovereignly protects him and directs his steps—including sending him to testify before rulers and ultimately to Rome. The study draws attention to how God used even opposition to fulfil His purpose for Paul.

Authenticity and Suffering in Ministry

Paul's honesty about his past and his endurance through suffering offer a model of authentic Christian faith. Like other biblical figures (Peter, Abraham), Paul's flaws are not hidden but used to highlight God's faithfulness. His trials reveal what’s truly in him—faith, Scripture, and steadfastness.

The Power of the Gospel and the Centrality of Scripture

Paul's letters and sermons consistently centre on the unchangeable gospel of Jesus Christ. His knowledge of Scripture, empowered by the Spirit, allowed him to “prove” that Jesus was the Christ. The study emphasized the need for believers today to be deeply rooted in Scripture, trusting the Spirit to recall it and apply it in real life.

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 69 - 31/01/25

This week we continue to look at the life of Samson.

1. Spiritual failure often begins with compromise, not collapse.

Samson's descent didn’t begin with Delilah—it started with small steps of disobedience, like visiting a harlot in Gaza (Judges 16:1). His choices gradually distanced him from God's standard, illustrating Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way which seems right to a person, but its end is the way of death.”

2. Repeated sin can dull spiritual discernment.

Despite Delilah's clear betrayal, Samson remained with her and shared more of his heart each time (Judges 16:6–17). His tolerance of deception revealed a heart drifting from wisdom, echoing Proverbs 6:26 and 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”

3. The power of God is not proof of God's approval.

Samson's strength remained even as his obedience declined, showing that spiritual gifts can still operate temporarily amid disobedience (Judges 16:3, 9, 12). Like Moses striking the rock (Numbers 20:11–12), results are no substitute for obedience—God weighs the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

4. God gives many chances, but hardened hearts can still fall.

Delilah "pestered him daily" (Judges 16:16), and though this could have been a warning to flee, Samson stayed. Scripture warns, “He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck will suddenly be broken beyond healing” (Proverbs 29:1), showing God’s patience has a limit.

5. The most tragic losses can happen unnoticed.

When Samson said, “I will go out as at other times,” he did not know that the Lord had left him (Judges 16:20). This sobering moment recalls Revelation 3:17, where self-deception blinds people to their spiritual poverty: “You do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.”

6. God is merciful and restores the repentant.

Despite his failure, Samson’s hair began to grow again (Judges 16:22)—a symbol of God’s grace and readiness to restore. His prayer in verse 28 and his final act of deliverance show that God hears the humble (James 4:6) and finishes His purposes even in broken vessels (2 Timothy 2:21).

7. It’s not how you start—it’s how you finish.

Though Samson’s journey was filled with failure, he died fulfilling his calling and is listed among the heroes of faith (Hebrews 11:32). His story affirms Ecclesiastes 7:8: “The end of a matter is better than its beginning,” and encourages us to run our race with endurance (Hebrews 12:1).

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 68 - 17/01/25

This Week we are looking at the life of Samson.

Samson’s Story Is Our Story

The life of Samson in Judges 13–16 was not written for his benefit, but for ours (Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:11). His journey reflects our own spiritual walk, with all its ups and downs. As we study his story, the right posture is not to criticize, but to ask, “Lord, what are you showing me about myself?”

Chosen and Set Apart from Birth

Samson’s birth was miraculous and marked by divine calling (Judges 13:3–5). The angel instructed his mother to avoid anything unclean because the child would be a Nazarite from the womb. In the same way, believers are spiritually reborn and chosen to fulfill God's purpose (Ephesians 2:10; Jeremiah 1:5).

The Nazarite Vow and Christian Consecration

Numbers 6:1–8 outlines the Nazarite vow—voluntary, visible separation unto God. Though not binding today, the principle applies: as those consecrated to God in Christ, our lives should reflect holiness and devotion (Romans 12:1–2; 1 Peter 1:15–16). The vow was a model of visible distinction in lifestyle, just as Christian living should be.

The Danger of Disregarding God’s Standards

Samson’s desire to marry a Philistine woman (Judges 14:1–3) was against Israelite law (Deuteronomy 7:3–4). Though God used it to confront the Philistines (Judges 14:4), the choice still represented disobedience. 2 Corinthians 6:14–15 reminds us not to be unequally yoked—God’s purposes do not justify going against His commands.

Growth Precedes Empowerment

Judges 13:24–25 tells us that Samson grew and was blessed by the Lord, and only then did the Spirit begin to stir him. Likewise, Luke 2:40 and 1 Samuel 2:26 highlight the growth and spiritual maturity of Jesus and Samuel before their ministries began. Spiritual growth is the foundation for fruitful service.

God’s Spirit Empowers Us, Not Our Strength

Samson’s acts of power (tearing the lion in Judges 14:5–6; killing 1,000 men with a jawbone in Judges 15:14–15) only happened when the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Zechariah 4:6 emphasizes that God's work is accomplished “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” reminding us that true strength comes from Him.

Don’t Discard What God Has Used

After achieving great victory with the jawbone of a donkey, Samson threw it away (Judges 15:17). This prompted a reflection in the study: we must not discard the very Word or tools God uses to equip and strengthen us (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Proverbs 4:13). Instead, we should hold fast to what has nourished and shaped our faith.

What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 67 - 22/11/24

This week we are looking at Joseph, Jacob's son.

Joseph's Special Position (Genesis 37:3-4): Joseph was deeply loved by his father, Jacob, who gave him a distinctive tunic. This favouritism caused envy among his brothers, paralleling God's declaration of Jesus as His "beloved Son" (Matthew 3:17).

Dreams and Prophecy (Genesis 37:5-11): Joseph's prophetic dreams foretold his future rise and his family's submission, causing tension with his brothers. This mirrors Jesus' mission and foreknowledge of His role as Saviour.

Betrayal for Silver (Genesis 37:26-28): Joseph was sold into slavery for 20 shekels of silver, foreshadowing Jesus' betrayal by Judas for 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15). Both betrayals were acts of evil that God used for ultimate good.

False Accusations and Suffering (Genesis 39:10-20): Falsely accused by Potiphar's wife, Joseph was imprisoned, resembling Jesus' unjust trial and condemnation (Mark 14:55-59). Despite their innocence, both suffered to fulfil God's plan.

Exaltation to Power (Genesis 41:41-43): Joseph rose to power as Pharaoh's right-hand man, saving many during a famine. Similarly, Jesus was exalted to sit at the right hand of the Father, bringing salvation to all who believe (Ephesians 1:20-22).

Provision for All Nations (Genesis 41:56-57): Joseph provided grain to the entire world during the famine. This echoes Jesus as the "bread of life," offering eternal sustenance to those who come to Him (John 6:35).

Reconciliation and Redemption (Genesis 50:20): Joseph forgave his brothers, recognizing God's hand in their actions for a greater good. This reflects Jesus' forgiveness on the cross: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). Through Joseph's trials, God preserved life; through Jesus' sacrifice, He provided eternal life.

This study beautifully illustrates how Joseph's life serves as a type and shadow of Jesus, highlighting God's sovereign plan of redemption woven throughout scripture.

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What The Bible Says.

Fortnightly bible study.

Episode 66 - 08/11/24

This week we begin to look at characters from the Bible - Today, it's Jonah.

The Simplicity of God’s Word: God desires that we approach His Word with humility, appreciating its simplicity while gleaning profound lessons for our lives (2 Corinthians 11:3).

The Word of God Comes to All: Jonah’s story reminds us that God’s Word can come to anyone, regardless of their position. This challenges us to listen and respond with obedience (Jonah 1:1, Luke 3:2).

Disobedience Leads Away from God: Jonah’s attempt to flee from God highlights how disobedience draws us away from His presence. The further Jonah fled, the deeper he fell—away from God and into trouble (Jonah 1:3, Psalm 139:7–10).

The Consequences of Sin Affect Others: Jonah’s disobedience caused turmoil for those around him. His actions disrupted the lives of the sailors, demonstrating that our sins can have far-reaching effects (Jonah 1:4–5).

The Call to Repentance and Mercy: God’s mercy is always available, even when we disobey. Jonah’s prayer in the belly of the fish shows the importance of repentance and God’s readiness to forgive (Jonah 2:1–2, Psalm 50:15, Psalm 91:15).

Recognizing Our Role in God’s Plan: Jonah was called to deliver God’s message to Nineveh despite his reluctance. This reminds us to trust in God’s purposes, knowing He equips us for His work (Jonah 1:2, Isaiah 55:8–9).

Personal Reflection and Boldness in Faith: We are challenged to examine our own hearts and be bold in living out our faith. Just as Jonah’s disobedience highlighted his fears, we must overcome fear and faithfully proclaim God’s truth (2 Timothy 1:7, Matthew 5:14–16).