Cornerstone Church Bristol

In this challenging and deeply relevant message from Matthew 5:27–32, Alex explores Jesus’ teaching on adultery, lust, marriage, and divorce within the Sermon on the Mount. Moving beyond outward actions, Jesus addresses the condition of the heart—revealing that true purity is not simply about behaviour, but about what we allow to shape our thoughts, desires, and relationships.Alex unpacks God’s design for marriage, the seriousness of sin, and the way culture can distort what God intended to be holy. Yet at the centre of this message is grace—reminding us that while sin is serious, Jesus is our sin-bearer, our righteousness, and the one who cleanses and restores.A powerful message calling us to purity, honesty, and deeper dependence on Christ in a world full of compromise.

In this message from Matthew 5:21–26, Alex explores one of Jesus’ most searching teachings from the Sermon on the Mount. Moving beyond the outward act of murder, Jesus exposes the deeper issue of anger, offence, and unresolved conflict within the heart.Alex unpacks how true righteousness is not found in religious performance or outward appearances, but through faith in Christ and a transformed heart. This message challenges us to examine our relationships, to deal honestly with hurt, to pursue reconciliation, and to live as peacemakers in God’s Kingdom.A timely and practical message on grace, forgiveness, and what it really means to reflect the heart of King Jesus in everyday life.

In this talk, Larry explores Jesus’ teaching on being the “salt of the earth” and “light of the world,” unpacking what it really means to live distinctly as a Christian. Rather than a call to perfection or pressure to perform, this is a declaration of identity—God works through ordinary, imperfect people to bring lasting impact. Moving through the Sermon on the Mount, Larry highlights how true faith is a matter of the heart, not outward appearance, and how the law ultimately reveals our need for Jesus. The result is a freeing message: not striving to earn approval, but living from a place of grace, dependence, and quiet transformation.

In this baptism service, Alex sets out the deeper meaning behind baptism by placing it within the full story of the gospel. From humanity’s separation from God to the saving work of Jesus, baptism is shown not as a ritual, but as a powerful sign of faith, obedience, and new identity.Exploring the difference between John’s baptism and the command given by Jesus, this talk highlights that baptism follows belief—it is an outward expression of an inward transformation. Through passages like Romans 6, we are reminded that baptism points to something profound: dying to the old self, being buried with Christ, and rising to walk in newness of life.A thoughtful and compelling message that invites us to consider not just what baptism is—but what it means to truly follow Jesus.

In this Easter message from Matthew 28, Alex explores why the cross—once a symbol of suffering and execution—stands at the very centre of the Christian faith. He unpacks the reality of sin, humanity’s separation from God, and why Jesus’ death was both necessary and unique. Moving from the cross to the resurrection, Alex presents compelling evidence for the risen Christ and addresses common objections with clarity and conviction.More than history, this is an invitation. Because Jesus is risen, there is freedom from sin, restoration with God, and a living hope that transforms both present life and eternity. The question at the heart of this message is simple but profound: how will you respond to the risen King?

On Palm Sunday, we begin exploring the “lifestyle of the Kingdom” through Jesus’ teaching in Gospel of Matthew 5:1–13. This message unpacks the Beatitudes—not just as ideals, but as the defining characteristics of those who follow Christ.From recognising our spiritual poverty to hungering for righteousness, showing mercy, and pursuing purity of heart, Jesus outlines a countercultural way of living. This is a call to transformation—where belief shapes behaviour, and disciples are formed to reflect the King.We are reminded that the Christian life is marked by humility, repentance, and dependence on God, leading to a life that brings peace, endures persecution, and remains “salt and light” in the world.A powerful invitation to not only follow Jesus—but to live as true representatives of His Kingdom.

In this message from Matthew 4:12–25, Alex explores the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry as He moves into Galilee—a place marked by darkness, uncertainty, and spiritual need—bringing with Him the light of hope and the good news of the Kingdom.Jesus’ message is clear and urgent: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” This is not just a call to feel sorry, but an invitation to realign our thinking and lives with God’s truth. As Jesus calls ordinary fishermen to follow Him, we see that His invitation is both personal and transformative—calling people by name into a life of purpose, surrender, and mission.Alex reminds us that life is short, yet deeply significant in light of eternity. In the midst of life’s challenges, we are encouraged to lift our eyes beyond the present and fix them on Christ—the living hope. Following Jesus is not passive belief, but active surrender: living differently, reflecting His Kingdom, and being a witness through both our words and our lives.This message challenges us to consider our response: will we simply believe, or will we truly follow?

In this message, Alex explores Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness and what it reveals about His identity as the true and obedient King. Following His baptism, Jesus is led by the Spirit into a place of testing, where the devil challenges Him on His identity, trust in God, and mission.Drawing a powerful contrast between Adam and Christ, Alex shows how where the first Adam failed in perfect conditions, Jesus—the second Adam—overcomes in the harshness of the wilderness. Each temptation highlights a deeper spiritual reality: the pull toward self-gratification, the misuse of Scripture, and the temptation to take shortcuts instead of trusting God’s plan.Through it all, Jesus responds with Scripture, demonstrating complete trust and obedience to the Father. This passage not only reveals Christ’s victory but also gives us a pattern for our own lives—calling us to stand firm in God’s Word, trust Him in seasons of testing, and resist the temptation to live independently of Him.Ultimately, the message points us to the hope we have in Jesus—the One who overcame sin and stands as our perfect Saviour.

In this message from Matthew 3, Alex explores the ministry of John the Baptist and the significance of Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan. Looking at the man, the message, and the method of John’s ministry, we see how he prepared the way for the coming King by calling people to repentance and pointing them to the promised Messiah.When Jesus comes to be baptised, heaven opens, the Spirit descends, and the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” This powerful moment reveals the identity and mission of Jesus and marks the beginning of His public ministry.The passage challenges us with an important question: how will we respond to Jesus? Will we be indifferent like the religious leaders, intimidated like Herod, or will we seek Him and worship Him like the wise men?Ultimately, this message reminds us that through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection we are invited into a living hope and a restored relationship with God.

In this family service talk, Larry explores Matthew 3:1–12 and the warning John the Baptist brings to people tempted to take God for granted. He unpacks what “presumption” looks like in the heart, especially religious pride, and why John’s call to repentance is about far more than outward labels, heritage, or tradition. The message builds through listening to the messenger, confronting hard-hearted confidence, and ultimately beholding the Saviour: Jesus, who brings a greater baptism and offers intimacy with God through the Holy Spirit. The takeaway is clear and hopeful: the gospel of grace humbles us, exposes self-reliance, and invites real change from the inside out.

In this powerful message from Matthew 2:13–23 , Alex explores the flight to Egypt, Herod’s violence, and the return to Nazareth — revealing how even the darkest moments of Jesus’ early life were part of God’s sovereign plan.Matthew presents Jesus as the promised King — the true Son called out of Egypt, fulfilling the story of Israel and beginning a greater Exodus. From the obedience of Joseph, to the sorrow of Bethlehem, to the humility of Nazareth, we see a Saviour who identifies with suffering, exile, and weakness.This passage challenges us to consider our own response to Christ: intrigue, intimidation, indifference — or worship. Above all, it reminds us that Jesus is the King who was rejected, yet through His death and resurrection brings deliverance, living hope, and the promise of eternal life.We are the people of the resurrection — called to worship the King who leads us out of bondage and into glory.

In this message from Matthew 2:1–12, Alex explores the visit of the wise men and what their journey reveals about true worship. These scholarly men were intrigued by a star, but it was Scripture that led them to Christ. In contrast to Herod’s intimidation and the religious leaders’ indifference, the wise men came with one clear purpose: to worship the King.Alex reminds us that Bethlehem, the “house of bread,” points to Jesus as the Bread of Life, and that the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh reveal Christ’s kingship, deity, and mission to die for sinners. The challenge for us today is simple but searching: do we come to church as consumers, critics, or worshippers? Like the wise men, may our inquiry lead us not to pride, but to surrender—bringing our time, talents, treasure, and hearts before the King of Kings.

In this sermon from Matthew 1:18–25, Alex explores the birth of Jesus, focusing on both His divine origin and His saving mission. Building on Matthew’s genealogy, the passage reveals not just where Jesus comes from humanly, but who He truly is — fully God and fully man.The talk unpacks the Jewish context of betrothal, highlighting Joseph’s righteousness, compassion, and inner struggle when faced with Mary’s pregnancy. Through divine revelation in a dream, Joseph receives clarity and chooses obedience, showing how God often brings insight amid confusion and distress.Central to the message is the meaning of Jesus’ names: Jesus — “the Lord saves” — and Emmanuel — “God with us.” Alex explains how these names reveal the heart of the gospel: Jesus came to save His people from their sins, not merely politically or temporarily, but fully and eternally. Drawing on Old Testament prophecy from Isaiah, the sermon shows how God’s promises find their ultimate fulfilment in Christ.The talk concludes with encouragement and assurance: God is with His people, God is for His people, and God completes the work He begins. Jesus is presented as the promised Messiah, the Saviour of sinners, and the one who brings peace with God through His life, death, and resurrection.

As we begin a new series in the Gospel of Matthew, Alex opens with what can feel like an unexpected starting point: a genealogy. From Matthew 1:1–17, we discover why these names matter and how they proclaim God’s good news. This passage introduces Jesus as the promised Messiah — the Son of David and the Son of Abraham — showing the fulfilment of God’s long-standing promises and the continuity between the Old and New Testaments.Alex explores what a Gospel really is, why Matthew wrote to a Jewish audience, and how the structure of this book helps us understand the life, mission, and kingdom of Jesus. Along the way, we see a powerful truth woven through the genealogy: God uses ordinary, imperfect, and sometimes forgotten people to accomplish His purposes.This opening message calls us to more than knowledge — it invites us to live differently. As citizens of God’s kingdom, we are called to a transformed lifestyle, missional living, growing together as a community, and living in hope of Christ’s return. Jesus is still calling people into His family — and the story continues with us.

In this standalone message from Zechariah 3, Alex explores the powerful vision of Joshua the high priest — standing before God in filthy garments, accused by Satan, yet graciously cleansed and restored by the Lord.Set against the backdrop of Israel’s return from exile, the passage speaks both warning and hope: God calls His people to learn from the past, return to Him, and trust that He is still at work, even in seasons of discouragement and rebuilding.At the heart of the vision is a greater promise. Joshua’s cleansing points beyond himself to the coming High Priest — Jesus, the Branch — who would remove sin in one day and clothe His people with righteousness once and for all.This sermon reminds us that we are all brands plucked from the fire, called not to self-reliance but to humble dependence on God’s Spirit, and invited to live as a holy, serving people who point others to Christ.A message of grace, assurance, and hope for anyone who feels unworthy, weary, or in need of renewal.

In this thoughtful and pastoral talk, Eliot explores Romans 13:11–14, setting it within the wider story of the early church in Rome — a community shaped by division, disruption, and deep disagreement.As Jewish and Gentile believers struggled to live together following years of exile and return, the church faced questions that feel strikingly familiar today: How do we live faithfully in a divided world? What really matters? And how should Christians be seen by those around them?Eliot unpacks Paul’s call to “wake up from our slumber”, reminding us that salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. He challenges us to live with urgency and purpose — not fearfully, but intentionally — putting aside deeds of darkness and “clothing ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ.”Drawing on the imagery of light, armour, reputation, and reconciliation, the talk connects Romans 13 with Romans 14 and the Beatitudes, showing that Christian maturity is not about winning arguments, but about reflecting Christ through character, humility, and love.This message encourages us to:Live visibly as people of lightBe mindful of our witness and reputationAvoid causing others to stumbleChoose reconciliation over divisionAct like Christ in everyday lifeA timely and grounding reminder that following Jesus means living differently — not withdrawing from the world, but reflecting Christ within it.

In this message from Colossians 1:1–14, Larry explores how a real and secure inheritance in Christ reshapes the way believers live today. Using the idea of inheritance as a hook, he contrasts fleeting earthly wealth with the sure hope laid up in heaven—and shows how that hope fuels faith in Christ, love for others, and perseverance in everyday life.Larry unpacks Paul’s opening thanksgiving for the Colossian church, highlighting how genuine gospel faith produces visible fruit: love for the saints, endurance through hardship, and joyful gratitude rooted in God’s grace. He reminds us that Christian growth is not driven by self-effort, programmes, or knowledge alone, but by hearts transformed through the gospel.The talk also walks through Paul’s “forever prayers” for believers—being filled with the knowledge of God’s will, strengthened with God’s power for patience and endurance, and joyfully giving thanks in all circumstances. Together, these prayers offer a timeless vision of a fruitful Christian life grounded in what God has already done through Jesus.A thoughtful and challenging message that calls us to live now in light of the unshakeable hope we have in Christ.

The parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the most familiar Bible stories — but in this talk, Mike challenges us not to leave it as a children’s story or a moral lesson kept at arm’s length.Reflecting on Luke 10:25–37, Mike explores Jesus’ encounter with the lawyer who knew the law well but struggled to live it out. Through personal reflection, real-life experiences, and Jesus’ radical redefinition of “neighbour,” we are invited to see that this story is not about knowledge, labels, or boundaries — but about compassion in action.From busy streets in modern-day London to encounters across cultures and faiths, this talk reminds us that being a neighbour is not about who qualifies, but about who shows mercy. Jesus’ call is simple and costly: go and do likewise — loving others so that they might see a glimpse of Christ in us.A timely challenge for the year ahead: to let God’s Word move from our heads to our hearts, and into the way we live every day.

In this message, we explore the deep expectations surrounding the Messiah through the words of Isaiah and their fulfilment in Luke 2. Spoken into a time of political unrest, moral decline, and national oppression, Isaiah’s prophecy shaped Israel’s longing for a leader — a warrior king, a religious reformer, and a personal guide who would restore peace and righteousness.Yet when Jesus came, he did not fulfil those expectations in the way many hoped. Instead of overthrowing empires, he came to rescue hearts. Rather than bringing political peace, he offered a deeper, lasting peace — peace with God.This talk unpacks the rich titles of Isaiah’s prophecy — Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace — and shows how they find their true meaning in Jesus Christ. From his birth to the cross, and ultimately to the promise of his return, we see that God’s plan was always bigger, deeper, and more eternal than human expectation.As the world continues to wrestle with chaos and brokenness, this message reminds us of our living hope: Jesus has saved us from our sins, is preparing a future where all things will be made new, and will one day return as the King who reigns forever.

In this Advent message, we reflect on Hosea 11:1 and Matthew 2:13–15, seeing how the Christmas story is rooted deep in God’s long-standing plan of rescue. Long before the manger, God called His people out of Egypt—a place of bondage—revealing His covenant love even in the face of unfaithfulness.At Christmas, that promise finds its fulfilment in Jesus. As the true Son, Christ is called out of Egypt, living in perfect obedience where Israel failed, and bringing salvation to a broken world. The flight to Egypt reminds us that the coming of Jesus was not only gentle and familiar, but costly, dangerous, and filled with purpose.This message invites us, during the busyness of Advent, to remember our own story—called out of darkness into light, from independence into dependence, and from fear into hope. Christmas is the announcement that God has come near, that restoration is possible, and that His loving call still stands for all who will return to Him.

In this special Carol Service message, we look beyond the familiar nativity scene to rediscover the heart of the Christmas story. Drawing from Matthew 1 and the prophecy of Isaiah, this talk explores what it truly means that Jesus is called Emmanuel — God with us.Set against the historical backdrop of King Ahaz, political uncertainty, and spiritual compromise, the message connects ancient Scripture with the realities we face today: doubt, fear, mixed loyalties, and crisis. Just as God spoke words of hope into a troubled time then, He continues to speak hope now.We reflect on who Jesus is — not just a baby in a manger, but the Saviour who came to rescue humanity from sin, restore relationship with God, and offer new life. This talk invites listeners to move beyond Christmas tradition and sentiment, and to consider the deeper question: Who is Jesus, and what does His coming mean for my life today?A message of hope, grace, and invitation — for Christmas and beyond.

In this thought-provoking 38-minute message, we explore a theme that resonates deeply with all of us: the gap — the uncomfortable space between the life we hoped for and the life we’re living. Drawing from the book of Malachi, this talk unpacks how complacency creeps into our faith, our relationships, and our daily choices, and why that gap can quietly expand into apathy, disillusionment, and even hypocrisy if we ignore it.Through historical context, cultural reflections, and honest spiritual challenge, we look at:Why Israel struggled with disillusionment after returning from exileHow our outward routines can mask an inward driftThe tension between duty and delight in our relationship with GodWhat it means for God to refine us through “the refiner’s fire”Why tithing, trust, and worship are ultimately matters of the heartThe hope of the Messiah — and the invitation to respond in humility todayAt its core, this episode reminds us that God meets us in the gap, not after we’ve cleaned ourselves up. His refining work is purposeful, compassionate, and designed to restore true worship and wholehearted living.A rich, challenging, and encouraging message for anyone wrestling with disappointment, spiritual numbness, or the tension between what we know and how we live.

This Advent message explores the often-skipped genealogies of Scripture and reveals how they point to God’s unbroken plan of salvation. From Adam to Abraham, Judah to David, and finally to Jesus, we trace the promised line of the Messiah through key moments in Genesis—creation, the fall, the first act of redemption, and the covenant promises.We look at Abraham’s blessing, Isaac’s miraculous birth, Balaam’s prophecy of the coming star, and Jacob’s blessing over Judah—the tribe from which Jesus, the Lion of Judah, would come. The message ends with a reminder that Jesus has come as Saviour and will return as Judge, inviting us to call upon the name of the Lord and embrace the hope of eternal life.A concise and uplifting Advent reflection on promise, heritage, and the hope found in Christ.

In this message we explore the rich, often-misunderstood opening chapters of Genesis and how they point us toward Jesus. From the meaning of “Genesis” and the purpose of the creation account, to the different uses of the word “day,” this talk helps us approach Scripture with clarity, humility, and faith.We look at Genesis not as a scientific textbook but as God’s revelation — showing who created the world and why He made it. Along the way we unpack the first promise of the Messiah in Genesis 3:15, the “seed of the woman” who would one day crush the serpent’s head, and how this is fulfilled in Christ.The message then connects this ancient promise to Paul’s teaching in Galatians: the gospel defended, explained, and applied. We are reminded that Christ is enough, the law cannot save us, and in the fullness of time God sent His Son to redeem us.This is a grounding, faith-building reminder that:God created with purpose.We are called to live in His sight and for His pleasure.Jesus is the promised wounded victor who saves, redeems, and restores.Join us as we journey from Genesis to Galatians and into the heart of the gospel, finishing with a time of communion as we remember Christ’s sacrifice and look forward to His return.

In this message, we hear a moving personal story that begins in post-communist Romania—where poverty, loss, and injustice revealed the deep brokenness of the world. Those experiences spark a deeper question: Why did Jesus come?Through Scripture and real-world reflection, this talk explores five powerful reasons for Christ’s coming:• to bear our sin• to destroy the works of the devil• to give eternal life• to be the atoning sacrifice• to be the Saviour of the worldWe’re reminded that the Christmas story is far more than lights, gifts, and tradition. It is about God’s love reaching into human suffering with hope, redemption, and new life.The message ends with a beautiful picture of acceptance and love from a Romanian orphan—an illustration of the transforming love of God and the call for us, as the church, to love one another as Christ has loved us.A heartfelt and timely reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.

In this message we explore the final Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 132–134), tracing the journey of the Ark of the Covenant and the rich spiritual meaning behind it. Through David’s passion to honour God, the symbols within the Ark, and the call to worship and unity, we’re reminded that God desires to be at the very centre of our lives—not an afterthought of convenience.This talk encourages us to place Christ at the heart of our daily walk, pursue unity in the church, and respond to God’s presence with wholehearted worship.