Coventry Vineyard Podcast

It's easy to look at the brokenness, chaos, and division in our world and retreat into places that feel safe and comfortable. Like Jonah, we can find ourselves hoping for judgment on others while expecting mercy for ourselves.But what happens when God calls us to bring a message of mercy instead?In this week's message, Nick challenges us to step into the messy realities of our communities rather than withdraw from them. Discover what it means to be "all-in" for Jesus and how sharing His mercy can transform not only the lives of others but our own as well.

Nick continues our three-part series on Jonah by exploring what it means to receive God’s mercy. As we dive deeper into Jonah’s story, we discover that hitting rock bottom is often where God’s rescue begins.When Jonah finds himself at the end of his own strength, he encounters the mercy of God in a fresh and powerful way. This message invites us to stop striving to earn our way out of the pit and instead receive the grace that God freely offers.What if your lowest point could become the place where God meets you most deeply? And what does Jonah’s story reveal about the heart of God for us today?Join us as we discover the breathtaking reality that in the Kingdom of God, truth never outweighs mercy.You may also find it helpful to watch the Bible Project’s overview of the Book of Jonah alongside this message.

Please note: We experienced some issues with the audio recording this week. The message is still available to listen to, but if you would like a copy of the notes, please contact Nick.Think you know the story of Jonah?In this first message of our new series, Nick explores what this ancient story has to say to us today and invites us to experience the depth of God's mercy—for ourselves and for those in our community.Why do we run from God's mercy? How can the storms of life draw us back into God's presence?Join us as we begin our journey through the book of Jonah and discover the God who pursues us even when we turn away.

Join us as we celebrate the rich diversity of our church family and the nations God has brought together among us. In this message, we explore God's heart for all people and hear the inspiring story of how the Holy Spirit has led Nana and Sidibe to plant churches in Mali and make disciples who make disciples.A joyful celebration of faith, mission, community, and God's work across cultures and nations.

This Sunday, Nick explores what God is calling us to be as a church — a community of disciple-making disciples meeting in multiple locations.What could this look like in practice? What might be next for us as a church community? And how is the Holy Spirit leading and guiding us in this season?Together, we reflect on the vision God is giving us and consider the part each of us can play in seeing it become a reality.

In this message, Nick dives into the important question: How do we make decisions in life? Together, we explore how the Holy Spirit leads us, how we can recognise the voice of God, and what it means to walk in step with His will. If following Jesus means learning to trust the Spirit, how can we discern whether it’s truly God speaking? And how do we move forward with faith and wisdom when facing uncertainty?

A message about discovering who the Holy Spirit truly is, and why trusting Him changes everything.Do you know the Holy Spirit personally?Do you trust Him with your next step, your deepest fear, and your biggest hopes?In this sermon, Nick explores why the Holy Spirit is essential for every follower of Jesus. We cannot truly follow Jesus without learning to trust and depend on His Spirit. Discover why we pray “Come, Holy Spirit” every time we gather as a church — and how this simple prayer can transform your everyday life too.

What if the same power that fueled the early church was available to you right now?This Sunday, Nick concludes our series The Story That Changes Everything by exploring the incredible gift of the Holy Spirit. From the pages of Luke and Acts to the streets of Coventry and beyond, the Spirit of God is the one directing the story.Join us as we discover how to walk in step with Him, listen to His voice, and become an active part of the story that truly changes everything.

This Sunday, Cecile explores how the early church was scattered, shaken, and forced to step into an unexpected journey—only to be strengthened through every challenge they faced.Following the thread of Acts 1:8, we see how ordinary believers—not apostles, not professionals—carried the gospel across the roads of the Roman Empire simply by living their everyday lives.Rooted in the power of the Holy Spirit, their journey became their witness. And so can ours.Because the mission was never only about arriving somewhere—it begins right where we are, in the ordinary moments of everyday life.

This Sunday, we continue our series “The Story That Changes Everything.” Nick explores a powerful question: What is the mission of the Church? Or more accurately, what is the Church’s role in joining the mission of God?Together, we unpack what it means to be part of something bigger than ourselves — God’s work of renewing all things. This episode also looks at practical, everyday ways each of us can step into that mission and join in with what God is already doing.Whether you’re exploring faith or looking to live it out more intentionally, this message will encourage and challenge you to take your next step.

This week, Nick continues our series “The Cross, The Kingdom and The Story that Changes Everything.”The Cross and the Kingdom are inseparable—two sides of the same coin. The way of the cross is the way of the Kingdom. Jesus reigns not through force, but through love, forgiveness, and true power. His victory is a triumph over sin, hate, evil, and even death itself.Look to the Cross and see the power of the true King. Look to the Cross and discover the story that changes everything.

Have you ever dreamed of doing something that would cost you everything?This week, Vicki continues our series “The Story That Changes Everything” as she explores the journey of Jesus—and how His unwavering focus on Jerusalem speaks into our lives today. Discover what it means to live with purpose, surrender, and a vision that goes beyond ourselves.

In this talk, Cécile reflects on the moment Jesus stood in the synagogue in Nazareth and announced His mission: liberation, healing, and restoration. Then He made a bold declaration — “Today this is fulfilled.”Jesus wasn’t pointing to a distant future; He was revealing a present reality. The kingdom of God had already begun. And the mission He carried is now the mission we are invited into.But the people in Nazareth struggled to see it because they struggled to believe it. In the same way, before we can participate in what God is doing in the world, we first have to trust Him. Faith doesn’t wait for proof — faith is what opens our eyes to the kingdom already breaking in around us.

Nick will explore the purpose of Luke-Acts and tackle the big question: Who is Jesus? Leading up to Easter, we’ll dive into the life of Jesus and key themes from the book of Luke and how Jesus’ life and the birth of the Church remain deeply relevant today.Whether you’re curious about Jesus, exploring faith, or just looking for fresh inspiration, this series is a wonderful opportunity to discover why He—and His church—still matter.

Everyone worships something. Christians worship Jesus. But who is the Jesus we worship? Who is the Jesus we follow? In this final episode of our I AM series, Nick explores Jesus’ powerful words to Martha in John 11:25: “I am the resurrection and the life.” Spoken in the shadow of grief and loss, these words are not just a promise for the future — they are a declaration of who Jesus is right now. How do we navigate sorrow while holding onto the goodness of God? How do we live with real trust in Jesus when death feels so final? And what does it truly mean to believe that death does not have the last word?

Everyone worships something. Christians worship Jesus. But who is the Jesus we worship? Who is the Jesus we follow? In this episode, Susy continues our “I Am…” sermon series by exploring Jesus’ powerful declaration in Gospel of John15: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.” Together, we’ll unpack what it truly means to remain connected to the True Vine, why God sometimes leads us through painful seasons of pruning, and how abiding in Christ enables us to bear fruit that lasts. We’ll also explore the rich biblical imagery of the vineyard as a picture of God’s covenant relationship with His people—revealing a deeper understanding of who Jesus is and what it means to belong to Him. Whether you’re in a season of growth, waiting, or pruning, this message will encourage you to stay rooted, remain connected, and trust the Gardener at work in your life.

Everyone worships something. As Christians, we worship Jesus—but who is the Jesus we worship? And who is the Jesus we follow?This Sunday, Cecile explores one of Jesus’ powerful “I am” statements from John 10: “I am the Good Shepherd and the Gate.” Speaking to a culture that deeply understood shepherding, Jesus uses the vivid image of sheep—an image rich with meaning, even if it’s a little uncomfortable for us today. In the first half of John 10, we see what Jesus reveals about Himself: the Shepherd who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them, and the Gate through whom they find safety, freedom, and abundant life. As we reflect on this truth, we’re invited to consider how following the Good Shepherd can transform the way we live and worship.

In this episode, Nick tackles one of Jesus’ most provocative statements: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). In an all-inclusive culture that values many paths and personal truth, this claim can sound shocking—even arrogant. So what did Jesus actually mean? Is He excluding others, or inviting them into something deeper? Join Nick as he unpacks the context, the challenge, and the hope behind Jesus’ words, and explores what this bold claim means for faith, truth, and life today.

Everyone worships something. Christians worship Jesus—but who is the Jesus we worship? Who is the Jesus we follow?In this episode, Cecile continues the series by exploring what it means when Jesus declares, “I Am the Bread of Life.”What does this reveal about who He is, and how does it shape the way we live?As we listen, we’re invited to reflect: What are you feeding on? What are you hungry for?

New Series | The Light of the World. On the first Sunday of the year, Nick launches a brand-new teaching series by asking a foundational question: Who is the Jesus we worship?Everyone worships something. As Christians, we worship Jesus—but do we truly see Him for who He is? In this opening message, we explore what it means when Jesus declares Himself to be “The Light of the World.” What does that light reveal, and how are we called to respond?A timely start to the year, inviting us to look again, see clearly, and follow faithfully.

In this episode, the second part of our series Heavenly Peace, Nick reflects on the deep connection between peace and light. How are we called to be people of peace, and what does it look like to bring light into darkness in our everyday lives?A festive and thoughtful episode inviting you to pause, reflect, and rediscover the true peace at the heart of Christmas.

What does Heavenly Peace look like on earth today?In this special Christmas message, Nick will explore what heavenly peace really looks like, how we can experience it personally this Christmas, and how we can become people who carry peace into our homes, communities, and everyday lives.As we celebrate the birth of Jesus—the Prince of Peace—join us in asking: This Christmas, how will I find peace? And how can I share it with others?

The parables of Jesus are far more than memorable stories — they are layers of Kingdom truth, hidden in plain sight. Each one invites us to look deeper, live differently, and discover what life in God’s Kingdom is really like. Are you ready to uncover the secrets?In this week’s episode, Nick explores the question: “Who is at your table?”Jesus regularly shared meals with people from every corner of society, using the table as a place of connection, challenge, and transformation. Through the parable of The Great Feast, we’ll look at what Jesus is teaching us about invitation, inclusivity, and the expansive heart of God.What does this parable mean for us today?How can we shape our own tables — our homes, relationships, and communities — to become spaces where people encounter Jesus?Pull up a chair, and join us as we discover the Kingdom truths hidden in The Banquet.

The parables of Jesus are far more than memorable stories — they are profound Kingdom truths hidden in plain sight. What can these familiar illustrations teach us about life with God? And how might they challenge the way we live as citizens of His Kingdom? If you’re ready to uncover the secrets of the Kingdom of God, this episode is for you.This week, Susy guides us through Matthew 20:1–16 — the parable of the workers in the vineyard. At first glance, it looks like a scenario destined for an employment tribunal: an employer who appears to pay unfair wages. But as with all of Jesus’ parables, the obvious meaning is rarely the main point.Join us as we dig deeper, explore the true message behind this surprising story, and discover the life-shaping lessons Jesus invites us to embrace.

In this episode, Cecile continues the Parables: Secrets of the Kingdom series with one of Jesus’ most surprising stories: The Shrewd Manager (Luke 16:1–13). It’s a wild tale about a manager on the brink of being fired who makes an unexpected move to secure his future—and an even more unexpected response from his master.Join us as we unpack why Jesus chose this story, what it reveals about wisdom, and how it challenges our relationship with money. We’ll explore how Christ calls us to:Be wise with what we haveSee money as a tool, not a masterLive generously, using our resources to bless and lift othersStay faithful, showing through daily choices that we serve God—not wealthA thought-provoking, practical conversation that will inspire you to view your resources with Kingdom vision.

In this episode, Nick explores one of Jesus’ most surprising teachings on prayer: The Friend at Midnight. The parables of Jesus are far more than memorable stories—they are profound Kingdom truths hidden in plain sight, calling us to a deeper way of living as citizens of God’s Kingdom.Nick unpacks two parables that reveal why prayer matters, how Jesus teaches us to pray with boldness and expectation, and how our understanding of who God is directly shapes the confidence we bring to Him. These stories challenge us to approach God with persistence and trust, believing that He is both attentive and generous.Are you ready to uncover the secrets of the Kingdom and discover how expectant, wholehearted prayer transforms your life? Tune in for a deeper look at the heart of the One who invites us to ask, seek, and knock.

The parables of Jesus are more than simple stories — they are profound revelations of Kingdom truths, hidden in plain sight. In this episode, Vicki continues our series “Secrets of the Kingdom” with a deep look at the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant.What does this story teach us about repentance, forgiveness, and the heart of God’s Kingdom? How do these lessons challenge the way we live and extend grace to others?

The parables of Jesus are far more than simple stories — they’re profound Kingdom truths hidden in plain sight. In this episode, Leeza unpacks The Parable of the Lost Son (Luke 15:11–32) and reveals what it teaches us about God’s heart for the lost. What can this familiar story show us about life in the Kingdom of God? And how might it challenge the way we live and love?

What Are You Building Your Foundation On? This week, Nick Sutton explores one of Jesus’ most well-known — yet deeply challenging — parables: the wise and foolish builders. The parables aren’t just simple stories; they are profound Kingdom truths hidden in plain sight. What are you building your life on? What is truly foundational to who you are and what you do? Join us as we uncover the secrets of the Kingdom of God and discover how this timeless story speaks to the way we live and build our lives today.

This Sunday, Nick Sutton continues our series on the Parables by looking at the parable of the growing seed (Mk 4:26-29). The Kingdom of God is growing even when it looks like nothing is happening. Will we have confidence and patience as we trust God in the process of growth in our own lives and in the lives of others? We will also relate this parable to the vision of Coventry Vineyard as we move into a new season of expectation.

In this episode, Cecile Oppliger explores the parable of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price. The parables are so much more than stories Jesus told—simple, yet profound, they reveal Kingdom truths hidden in plain sight. Through familiar illustrations like treasure buried in a field or a merchant seeking a priceless pearl, Jesus invites us to see life in God’s Kingdom from a new perspective. What can we discover when we slow down and truly listen? And what challenges might these teachings bring to the way we live today? Join us as we uncover the secrets of the Kingdom of God together.

Join Nick Sutton as he unpacks the Parable of the Sower and reveals how Jesus’ parables are far more than simple stories. These timeless illustrations carry Kingdom truths hidden in plain sight—truths that challenge us to see, hear, and live differently. What can we learn from the seed, the soil, and the sower? How do these lessons shape our walk with God today? Tune in and discover the profound secrets of the Kingdom, waiting to be uncovered in Jesus’ words.

Jesus spent three years making disciples (apprentices). Following his resurrection he commissioned and empowered these ordinary people to go and make disciples. Multiplication is at the heart of Jesus call for all of us to 'go and make disciples" but what does this look like? Are we ready and equipped to make 'disciple-making' disciples?

Making disciples is exciting, but how can we help them grow in faith, what happens when we assemble? We will explore how we can all disciple one another.

We experience God in the pages of Scripture, yet Scripture (or the Bible) can be a challenge to read or understand. This Sunday Nick looks at some practical ways in which we can reflect on and apply scripture to everyday life and as we do, be transformed. What if reading scripture under the leading of the Holy spirit led us to discover and understand the teachings of Jesus in a way that leads us to obedience?

Jesus sends us all, and he trusts us with his message to take it to the rest of the world. But who do we share it with?The Bible gives us clues about what to look for in a person whom God has prepared for us to share his good news. We will study the chapter of Acts 10 to discover how to find the right person.

To engage with our world is what Jesus has called us to. He actually trusts us to go to places that he will then visit, he trusts us to be his forerunners. That's amazing!  The harvest is ripe and the workers a few.Everyone is invited to join.This Sunday let's look at how to engage in our society. We will also spend a bit of time thinking about our testimony.

This Sunday we continue our series exploring key habits of multiplying disciples. Jesus prayed differently. Whilst he honoured the common Jewish prayer rhythm, but he prayed with a sense of familiarity with God that no one had ever seen. His prayers were conversations with God as Father. This is where he got his identity and strategy. When he prayed things happened. God’s kingdom broken into the here and now. When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, he wasn’t teaching them to pray more or pray harder, but rather to pray differently.A vibrant prayer life, begins with knowing the love of God the Father for you. Practicing extraordinary prayer flows from knowing who it is that we are praying to.

Reading Scripture guided by the Holy SpiritThis Sunday we start a new series! We are all called, by Jesus, to "go and make disciples". But what does this look like? What is our plan for making disciples? As a church we will be exploring some key habits, that we find from scripture, of multiplying disciples.Over June and July, our Sunday morning teaching and each life group will focus on key habits that will equip and encourage you to work with the Holy Spirit to see kingdom multiplication. All these habits are centred on and fuelled by the compassion of God. This Sunday, Nick will be teaching on how the compassion of God is the beginning of making disciples.

Loving your neighbour naturally flows out of the love we have received from God. Let's understand more about the roots of the commandment Jesus gave. We will have a look at the fruit it can produce in and around us.

In this series we explore together what it looks like for each of us to demonstrate the goodness and love of God to those we meet and engage with on a regular basis. And what it looks like for us as a church to:a) make room for those the Lord is inviting into our community. b) reach out to those the Lord is leading us to.

This Easter, celebrate the fact that Jesus rose from the dead. Death no longer has the final say in life. We can live life in the Kingdom and under the reign of the risen King Jesus, today.Nick speaks from 1 Corinthians 15.

If we are to grow as kingdom people - we have to know who we are following. Who is Jesus to you? What does this mean to you, your life, your stuff? How can you put what you have into the service of King Jesus?

Nick continues our series on Grace & Generosity. Jesus wants his followers to be kingdom people, to learn and practice generosity in every area of life. This includes our relationship with money. How can we as a church excel in the grace of giving and be a truly generous church?

Cécile talks about using our talents and gifts to serve generously.God the Father, Son and Spirit was the first to be generous to us.Generosity - an imitation of GodGenerosity - a testimony of God's existenceGenerosity - a blessing by bearing good fruit

Nick concludes our Psalm 23 series. After our journey through this Psalm we arrive at our destination and get to put our feet up and look back. But we also get to look forward and decide how the reality of Psalm 23 will impact our daily lives as we make practical plans for a life with God.

David, the psalmist writes "my cup overflows" - this is such a vivid description of God's generosity and abundance. What do we do with God's goodness towards us? How can we be people of generosity, to freely give what we have received?

In Psalm 23:5 we read "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies." Did you know that there is a seat at the table for you? God sits you down and serves you in the midst of all that you are facing. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, invites you into a 'Life with God'.

Nick & Vicki Sutton report back from the Missions Leaders Meeting in the USA, describing our commitment as a church to join in the Missio Dei (the Mission of God) both locally and further away (see Acts 1:8).We have been called to "co-labour" with others as we multiply disciples, leaders and churches. "Everyone gets to play!"

As we continue our sermon series on Psalm 23 'Life with God', Cécile speaks on being led through the dark valley (Ps23:4). ife with God is not without its challenges. How do we trust God to lead us through those times with our faith intact?