Sermon Podcasts at St Thomas' Moonee Ponds

Share this if you know someone who wants to rise from their situation.This song is my real life. Every word is true, and I make myself vulnerable to make sure that one person knows they are not destined to be the circumstances they came from.I wrote it from the scars of a childhood filled with beatings, fear, and silence. But that broken boy grew up. By God's grace, I broke the cycle. I became a husband, a father, and a man who chose love over pain.This is my original composition. My testimony.I'm not sharing for pity—I'm sharing because someone out there needs to know: you are not what was done to you. Healing is real. Christ met me in my rubble, and He can meet you too.Now, as Vicar of St Thomas Moonee Ponds, I'm reminded daily of the power we have to bring healing to the most unexpected places—sometimes in a conversation, sometimes in a song, sometimes in simply showing up and saying, "I see you, I was you and you matter."Please share this with someone carrying invisible scars. A text, a story, a link—you might be the hand that helps them rise.In the love of Christ, we can all stand.🙏 Share. Heal. Rise.

What if the greatest threat to the church isn't opposition from the world—but our own desire to stay comfortable?In this episode, we explore Matthew 16:21–28 and the paradox at the heart of the Christian life: if you try to save your life, you'll lose it. But if you lose it for Jesus, you'll find it.We unpack what it really means to "take up your cross," why the church has drifted from the cross in its pursuit of comfort and relevance, and how we can return to a gospel-driven, cross-shaped mission.The gospel is distinctive. It cannot be woven together with the ways of the world. And each way of living excludes the other.Key Scripture: Matthew 16:21–28Blessings, Rev. Rob.

We love having God neatly labeled, safely categorized, and comfortably predictable. But Jesus refuses to stay in our boxes.In this episode, we step into Matthew 16:13–20—where Jesus asks the question that shatters our spiritual comfort zones. The crowd had Him figured out (Elijah, Jeremiah, a prophet—safe, static, past-tense). Peter risked a divine revelation: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."But even that glorious confession isn't the finish line. The "rock" isn't a monument to sit on—it's a movement to join. The "keys" aren't a security blanket; they require daily, uncomfortable listening to heaven. And sometimes, the deepest trust is found in the silence He commands.Press play if you're ready to stop worshipping your blueprints and start growing in the wild, risky trust of the living Son of God.

A Canaanite woman—ethnic enemy, religious outsider, and a mother at the end of her rope—does something the religious insiders couldn't do. She teaches the Master. Her wit, her humility, and her audacious faith crack open the door for the entire Gentile world.In this episode, we sit in the dust of Tyre and Sidon and let this woman's voice rewrite our theology of diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We explore why reaching the marginalized isn't a side-project of the Kingdom—it is the primary way God expands our hearts and corrects our narrow vision.IN THIS EPISODE, WE UNPACK:🚶 Border-Crossing Over Open Doors – Why Jesus physically walked into enemy territory, and why we cannot wait for the marginalized to come to us. Why we need to continue to be looking for opportunities within our parish to speak the marginalised.🧩 Intersectionality in the Text – How this text speaks into our relationship with our First Nation people🍞 Belonging Over Assimilation – We look at the passage from Acts 8:26 40 as a passage that speaks to a moment with someone in the bible who is non-binary (the Eunic) is ministered to by Philip and is baptised.🔄 The Mission Expands – Rev. Rob shares a testimony of his encounter with a same-sex attracted couple about worship and coming to the communion table within our parish.WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR:If you've ever felt like you don't belong in church—too broken, too different, too much—this is for you.If you've ever been the "insider" protecting a comfortable, homogenous religion—this is for you too.If you're ready to stop handing out crumbs from a distance and start sitting at the same table—click the link and hit play.

You've survived the distractions. You've weathered the emotional crashes. But now comes the real battle—the slow, subtle choke of everyday anxiety and the relentless pressure to prove your worth.In this concluding installment of our intergenerational series, we tackle the final two soils in Jesus' Parable of the Sower. If Part 1 was the diagnosis of what's stealing the Word, Part 2 is the prognosis—and the hope.In Part 2, we dig into:🌿 The Thorny Ground (Vs. 7, 22) – We confront the "silent killers" of faith: the worries of life and the deceitfulness of wealth. For today's teens and young adults, this isn't just about money—it's about hustle culture, the pressure to build a flawless resume, existential dread about the future, and the comparison trap of social media. We explore how these thorns don't just distract—they choke the soul, leaving our young people feeling guilty for resting and anxious about praying.🌳 The Good Soil (Vs. 8, 23) – Finally, the hope we've been waiting for. This generation craves authenticity above all else, and that is precisely what the Good Soil requires. We discuss what it really means to hear, understand, and bear fruit in a digital age. This isn't about perfection—it's about deep roots, intergenerational connection, and the kind of resilience that produces 30, 60, and 100-fold fruit even when life is hard.Jesus didn't shame the bad soil. He explained it realistically so that we—the Church—could act as the Farmer's helpers. This episode will leave you with three practical, actionable steps to help the next generation put down deep roots in a shallow world.Whether you are a parent, a grandparent, a youth leader, or a young adult struggling to find solid ground—this message is for you.Key Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 13:7-9, 22-23, 2 Timothy 3:1-6

Spoiler alert: You are going to fail. You are going to have anxious thoughts. You are going to doubt. And guess what? Jesus is not surprised, and He is not stepping back.In our latest podcast episode, we break down Matthew 14—the storm, the boat, and the moment Peter realized he couldn't do it alone - and we apply it the concerns the youth have..We get real about:✅ Anxiety, worry and anger being signposts.✅ The fear that keeps us stuck in the boat.✅ The shocking grace of Jesus when we mess up when we are out of the boat.His power isn't just for the "perfect Christians." It's for the sinkers. It's for the strugglers. It's for you.🎧 Link in bio / Click to listen now! This week, speak to a youth you know and remind then that they don't need to row through this week alone.

“Where the river flows, everything will live.” (Ezekiel 47:9)Water in the desert isn't a luxury—it is survival. In Ezekiel’s vision, God sends a life-giving river straight from the Temple into the most stagnant, salty, dead place on earth. And where it flows, swarms of life appear, trees bear fruit, and even the leaves bring healing.This Sunday, we are asking a bold question: Are we observing the water, or are we getting in it?If you are visiting, we aren't asking you to swim the whole river today—just take one step. One small act of discipleship. One prayer group. One hour of service. One conversation of forgiveness.If you have been walking with Jesus for years, we are asking you to go deeper—from your ankles, to your knees, to your waist, and finally into the deep current where you simply trust the flow.Listen to the podcast from Sunday as we step off the banks and into the healing stream. Your Dead Sea is about to become fresh.

It's July in Australia. It's freezing. The frost is on the windscreen, the sun sets before dinner, and everything in us wants to hibernate. But what if this winter, instead of just surviving the cold, we started preparing for the Dawn?In this episode, we're doing Christmas in July—but not the tinsel-and-tinsel kind. We're taking a hard, hopeful look at Matthew 13:44–58, where Jesus shifts the conversation from cozy nativity scenes to the urgent reality of His return.We explore four things we must examine in our lives to be truly ready for the coming King:The Cost of Readiness – Are you willing to sell everything for the hidden treasure?The Reality of Divine Separation – The net is coming to shore. Will you be in the basket or thrown back?The Wisdom to Discern the Times – Do you know the old treasures and the new?The Danger of Familiar Unbelief – Has your heart grown so cold and comfortable that you've stopped recognising Jesus?If your faith has grown drowsy, if you're going through the motions, or if you just need a reason to get out of the cold—this episode is for you. The longest night won't last forever. The King is coming. Are you ready?

We sit with the stirring message from Archbishop Ric Thorpe’s recent video reflection, “For the Harvest.” Drawing from Matthew 9:35-38, Archbishop Thorpe invites us to look at the world the way Jesus did—with compassion, urgency, and a call to action.Jesus saw crowds that were “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” His response wasn’t indifference—it was to declare that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. And then He gave a direct command: pray for more workers, and then become those workers.In our conversation, we explore:What it means to see our communities, workplaces, and families as “harvest fields”Why compassion must precede our missionHow we can practically answer the call to be labourers todayThe role of prayer in preparing and sending out workersWhether you’re a church leader, a new believer, or someone wondering where you fit in God’s story, this episode will challenge and encourage you to step into the harvest with fresh eyes and a willing heart.Key Scripture: Matthew 9:35-38Featured Reflection: Archbishop Ric Thorpe🎧 Listen now – and if this episode speaks to you, leave a review and share it with a friend who needs to hear this timely word.

Is modern life hardening the soil of our hearts before the Word even has a chance to land?In this first installment of our special intergenerational series, we begin unpacking Jesus' Parable of the Sower—not as ancient farmland wisdom, but as a startlingly accurate diagnosis of the spiritual environment facing our teens and young adults today.In Part 1, we tackle the first two soils:🌱 The Hardened Path (Vs. 4, 19) – We look at how the relentless ping of notifications, algorithms, and dopamine-driven doom-scrolling have created a spiritual crust on young hearts. The Word hits the surface but simply cannot penetrate a fragmented, over-stimulated mind. We discuss how this leads to spiritual numbness and apathy.⛰️ The Rocky Ground (Vs. 5-6, 20-21) – We explore the "Youth Camp Crash"—why powerful emotional worship highs often wither under the scorching heat of social scrutiny, academic pressure, and the lonely transition into young adulthood. We ask the hard question: What happens when the feeling fades and the roots aren't there?This episode is a wake-up call for parents, grandparents, and youth leaders to understand what our young people are actually up against.⚠️ THIS IS ONLY PART 1.In Part 2, 9th August 2026  (Second Sunday of the month), we will tackle the remaining two soils:🌿 The Thorny Ground – How anxiety about the future and the relentless "hustle culture" choke out spiritual growth.🌳 The Good Soil – How deep authenticity, rest, and intergenerational connection allow faith to flourish and bear real fruit.📍 A SPECIAL INVITATION FOR YOU:While this podcast gives you the teaching, the real magic happens in person.We are hosting a live, interactive intergenerational service where we will be discussing Part 2—and we want to hear YOUR voice. This isn't a lecture; it's a family conversation. I warmly invite you to join us at:📅 9th August 2026⏰ 10.00am📍 St Thomas' Moonee Ponds.Come ready to listen, share your collective wisdom, and help us figure out how to prepare good soil for the next generation. Whether you are 16 or 86, your perspective is needed at the table.Blessings,Rev. Rob

Are you exhausted? Not just from your schedule, but from the constant, draining effort of managing what everyone thinks of you?In this episode, we dive into Matthew 11:15-30 and uncover the real root of our soul-tiredness. It turns out that trying to keep your reputation with people is an unwinnable game—human opinion is fickle, contradictory, and utterly exhausting. But Jesus offers a radical alternative: a total exchange. He invites us to stop performing for a crowd that will never fully applaud, and instead rest in a reputation before God that is already settled in Christ.We explore why the "yoke" of Jesus is easy and light—not because it requires nothing of us, but because He carries the ultimate weight, leaving us with only the light burden of trusting and walking with Him.If you are tired of wearing a mask, living in fear of criticism, or trying to impress people who will never be fully impressed—this message is your invitation to find real rest for your soul.

Is your hospitality just good manners—or do you reframe it as a divine encounter?We all understand wages: you work, you get paid. You sin, you face consequences. Romans 6:23 lays it out bluntly: "The wages of sin is death." That's the paycheck we've all earned. But then Paul drops a bomb: "...but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Case closed, right?Then Jesus speaks to those around Him in Matthew 10 and starts talking about "rewards" for welcoming prophets and giving cups of cold water. Wait—are we back on the payroll system?In this episode, we tackle the beautiful tension between grace and reward, unpacking what we actually welcome when we open our lives to others. Spoiler alert: it's not just a guest—it's Christ Himself, His righteousness, and a shared inheritance we didn't earn.We'll explore:Why your "cup of cold water" carries eternal weight.The difference between self-righteousness and biblical righteousness.How receiving a righteous person's reward is the opposite of earning a wage.What it truly means to welcome in Jesus' name.If you've ever felt your small acts don't matter, or you're tired of trying to earn God's favor—this message will set you free to serve with joy. The gift is free, but it is never private.Tune in and discover how the welcome you give reveals the grace you've received. 🙌

What if picking up a microphone on World Music Day wasn't just about performance—but about allegiance?In this episode, we dive headfirst into one of Jesus' most unsettling and electrifying sermons: Matthew 10:24–39. If the Head of the House was called Beelzebul, can His household expect a warm welcome? Jesus says no—and then raises the stakes. He calls us to a radical loyalty that fears God more than gossip, confesses His name before strangers, and dares to sing publicly even when it costs our reputation.But here’s where it gets breathtaking: we're not singing alone. As the sun travels from east to west, we join a multilingual household lifting the name of Jesus in Mandarin, Spanish, Swahili, Tagalog, and English. This isn't a concert; it's a global act of spiritual defiance and joyful surrender. Together, we unpack the paradox—losing our lives to truly find them, and turning a secular street festival into a prophetic moment of unity.If you've ever felt timid about sharing your faith, or wondered how global worship matters to your local street corner, this sermon podcast will reframe your song. Tune in, and prepare to take your voice where it belongs—into the open air, for the King who isn't ashamed of you.Press play. Find your voice. Join the household.Blessings, Rev. Rob.

What does courage really look like?We often imagine heroic one‑time acts. But for refugees, courage is quieter – and harder. It’s leaving everything behind. Learning a new language while grieving a lost home. Standing before officials who hold your future in their hands. And somehow, still moving forward.In this special Refugee Week episode, we open Matthew 9:35–10:23 – a passage where Jesus sees the harassed and helpless, sends his followers out with almost nothing, and commands them to flee when rejected.We explore:the bravery of refugees and hows that speaks to witnesses seeking those that need help or are harassed. what it means for those forced to flee today and what it means for witnesses to go into areas where people flee from.How sharing the gospel begins not with words, but with compassion that acts.Whether you’ve walked a refugee journey yourself or want to stand alongside those who have, this episode will change how you see courage – and the road.No one travels alone.🎧 Listen now. Share with a friend. And this Refugee Week, discover the courage that’s already walking beside you.

What does the healing of a bleeding woman and a dead girl have to do with caring for our planet? More than you might think.In this episode, we dive into Matthew 9:9–13 and 9:18–26 – a passage where Jesus declares, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” On the surface, these verses are about outcasts being restored to community. But when we listen with World Environment Day in mind, a surprising connection emerges.We explore a simple but profound idea: the natural world is given to us for the fulfillment of our sustenance and need, not as a commodity to be used up. It keeps us connected to God.From that starting point, we ask:How does treating creation as a “sacrifice” damage our own souls?What would it mean to offer the earth mercy instead of exploitation?Why your home environment – your room, your yard, your local stream – is actually liturgical space that shapes your relationship with God.Using the vivid images of the bleeding woman touching Jesus’ cloak and the dead girl being raised, we reframe environmental care as an act of restoration, not guilt. Whether you’re passionate about creation care or feel overwhelmed by the scale of environmental problems, this episode offers a gentle, spiritually grounded way forward. No politics. No shame. Just a call to touch the “fringe” of God’s presence – starting right where you live.“She touched the fringe of his cloak – and was healed. Perhaps the earth is that fringe.”

What does it mean to go “All In” – with God, and with the First Peoples of this land?This Trinity Sunday, we sit at a holy intersection. The church celebrates the God who is community – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and Reconciliation Week calls us to total commitment, not half-hearted gestures.In this episode, we walk through three powerful scriptures:Exodus 34 – The God who cuts new tablets and stays faithful, even after we break covenant.Matthew 28 – The risen Jesus with all authority, sending us to all nations with his enduring presence.2 Corinthians 13 – The Spirit’s koinonia (fellowship) that draws us into a dance of mutual giving.Together, these readings reveal a Triune God who is utterly “All In” – and an invitation for the church to follow suit. No holding back. No Sunday-only faith. Just a deep, covenant-shaped walk with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, grounded in truth, presence, and hope.Whether you’re preaching, praying, or simply listening for a fresh word, this episode offers biblical depth, practical reflection, and a closing prayer to send you out.🎧 Press play – and come all in.

Today's reading was done in a number of languages including English,Croatian, Bazaar, Spanish, Cantonese, Italian and Mandarin.Listen in to hear the reading in the languages of the world.

What if the Holy Spirit isn’t primarily interested in making you a better volunteer? What if the real Pentecost moment is when your natural ability gets overtaken by supernatural testimony?This week on the podcast, we explore a powerful convergence: Pentecost Sunday and Volunteer Sunday. Drawing from Numbers 11:24–30, Acts 2:1–12, and John 20:19–23, we unpack a critical transition:Natural capacity = good people doing good things with their own gifts, energy, and training.Supernatural testimony = disciples releasing the kingdom of God through the Spirit’s unexpected, uncontainable presence.You’ll hear how Moses wished for all God’s people to prophesy (even the ones who stayed in the camp), how the first Pentecost turned a language barrier into a witness of “God’s deeds of power,” and how the risen Jesus breathed the Spirit into fearful disciples – not to make them nicer, but to send them as the Father sent Him.Whether you serve on a roster, lead a ministry, or are just trying to figure out where you belong, this episode will challenge you to stop asking “Can I do this task?” and start asking “Is God’s reign becoming visible through me?”Listen in as we move from natural capacity to supernatural testimony – because the Spirit doesn’t fill resumes. The Spirit fills witnesses.

You don’t need a pulpit to release the kingdom – just a kettle, a kind ear, and a willingness to go to the hard places. We unpack two powerful scriptures from our lectionary today:John 17 – Jesus prays for you before you’re sent into drought, isolation, or a neighbour’s crisis.1 Peter 5 – The practical how‑to: lead like a shepherd, cast your anxiety, and find joy again.We particularly kept the CWA members in our thoughts but this is for all people connecting with others in the hard places, and anyone who’s ever felt tired from caring. Pour a tea, press play and put your feet up for a little while. ☕

Bishop Alison spoke at out 10am service today about our desire  and longing to be with God. She spoke about being in a culture that offers us a lot of stimulation, yet fails to satisfactorily fulfil the deeper desire for meaning. Jesus offers that meaning in times that are going well as well as our challenging times.

What does it really mean that God lives in you? And how do you actually stay there? In John 14:15–21, Jesus makes a staggering promise: the Holy Spirit will not just be with you—He will be in you. The Father and the Son will come and make their home inside your life. But this isn’t passive. Jesus ties this indwelling to a clear call: “If you love me, keep my commands.”In this episode, we explore the beautiful, demanding rhythm of the Christian life: God in us (by the Spirit) and us in God (through the disciplined practices of Scripture and prayer). The cross made the first possible—Jesus died utterly alone so we would never be alone. But experiencing His constant presence requires our intentional response.We’ll cover:Why “God in us” is the central promise of the New Covenant—and what it actually feels like.Why discipline (not legalism) is the pathway to remaining in God: regular time in Scripture, prayer, and obedient trust.Practical steps to cultivate the “mutual abiding” – God living in you as you live in Him.Key insight: The same Jesus who cried out alone on the cross now offers to live inside you. But the door of that indwelling swings open on the hinges of love, obedience, and the daily, disciplined choice to be in His Word and in His presence.If you’ve ever felt spiritually distant or wondered why the presence of God feels inconsistent, this episode will help you see the connection between God’s promise to dwell in you and your discipline to dwell in Him. Let's get disciplined about being with God to have a consistent relationship.

What happens when the Vicar has lived the text before he ever preached it?Today we looked at Domestic Violence and looked to raise awareness about this in our community.Karen, our parishioner and boardmember of GenWest, shared her information about what is happening on the front line of those that support domestic violences. She also shares some important statistics which make the information very real.As well as this, our Vicar does something rare and holy: he steps into the pulpit not as a distant Bible teacher, but as a survivor of domestice violence. Growing up in a home marked by domestic violence, he knows the sound of a slammed door, the terror of unpredictable rage, and the silence that shame demands.He uses the gospel of the day to speak into this situation. John 14:1-14 are words read at funerals or whisper to anxious hearts: “Do not let your hearts be troubled… In my Father’s house there are many rooms.”But what if “home” is the very place that troubles you?What if the only room you know is a prison of control, fear, or fists?Our Vicar walks through John 14:1–14  — not to offer cheap comfort, but to tell the truth:The many rooms of God’s house are a promise of safety — not a cage of false unity.Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life — exposing every counterfeit “way” of coercion and gaslighting.The “greater works” Jesus promises are not magic tricks; they are a church that stops pretending and starts protecting.With vulnerability and pastoral wisdom, he shares his own story of childhood survival — not for sympathy, but for freedom. He names the lies that kept him silent. He offers a vision of faith where leaving an abusive home can be an act of discipleship, not betrayal.And he asks the hard question: What will our church do to become a safe house for the next survivor?If you know of anyone who is in a domestic violence situation, it might be helpful to listen to this with them in a non-confrontational way. You might start the conversation with "Hey I heard this talk at church. Want to listen to it with me and tell me what you think??"

Archbishop Ric at St Thomas' 5pm service 26th April 2026

We all know what it’s like to walk away. From a grief too heavy to carry. From a prayer that went unanswered. From a hope that shattered.But many of us are also walking away from church—quietly, painfully, and for real reasons. Hypocrisy. Judgment. Hurt from a leader. A gospel that felt false. The problem of evil that no one could explain. Or simply being too busy, too fine, or too tired to keep showing up.In this episode, we open Luke 24—the road to Emmaus—and discover something surprising: Jesus doesn’t wait for you to turn around. He joins you on the road away.We explore:Why walking away doesn’t mean you’ve outrun GodHow to name the real reasons you left (without shame)Why the communion meal—the breaking of bread—is the exact place where eyes openHow the table speaks directly to every wound: hypocrisy, doubt, irrelevance, hurt, false teaching, and moreWhat it means to return to worship with a burning heart—not because the church got perfect, but because you are changedWhether you’re still in the pews, standing at a distance, or haven’t set foot in a church in years—this episode is for you. No guilt. No pressure. Just bread, honesty, and the risen Christ on your road.Listen in. And let your heart burn again.

Are your children carrying fears you can’t see? Are you, as a parent, feeling locked in by anxiety, pressure, or uncertainty about the future?In this episode, we open up the familiar story of the disciples hiding behind locked doors after Jesus’ death – and discover how the risen Christ still walks through the locked rooms of our families today.We talk honestly about the pressures on our children: school stress, friendship struggles, anxiety about the world, and the weight of feeling “not good enough.” And we ask: How can we parent differently when everything feels unsettling?You’ll hear:Why the resurrection doesn’t just comfort us – it sends us out of hiding.How Psalm 16:8 (“He is at my right hand; I shall not be shaken”) becomes a simple, powerful prayer for kids and parents alike.Practical, gentle ways to help your child name their fears and invite Jesus into their “locked room.”Why your peace as a parent is the greatest gift you can give your anxious child.This isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about knowing the One who stands at your right hand – and your child’s.For every parent, grandparent, or carer who has ever felt stuck behind a locked door of worry: this episode is for you.

He walked alone so you would never be alone. On Good Friday, Jesus bore the curse God swore to carry in Genesis 15. On Easter Sunday, He steps out of the tomb as the first fruit—the guarantee that the whole harvest is coming. Discover why the empty tomb means you can stop striving and start living. Discover how you can be part of the emerging harvest.

In Genesis 15:4-16, God alone passed between the pieces, taking the curse upon Himself. In Matthew’s passion, Jesus walked the same solitary road—bearing our sin, crying forsaken, and rising as the first fruit of a new creation. Listen and rest in the God who did it all.

What do a woman freed from seven demons, the wife of a high-ranking government official, and a group of everyday women have in common? They bankrolled the ministry of Jesus.In this episode, we dive into Luke 8:1–3 and uncover a powerful, often overlooked truth: healed people help people. The women who followed Jesus didn’t just receive healing—they turned their gratitude into generosity. They gave out of their own “means” to fuel the mission of the Gospel, becoming silent partners in every miracle, every sermon, and every life changed.But this isn’t just ancient history. It’s a blueprint for us today.If you’ve been touched by the grace of God, you’re invited to be more than a spectator. Join us as we explore what it means to be a cheerful giver, why generosity is the natural response to grace, and how your own “means”—no matter how small—can partner with God’s work in the world.Whether you’re wrestling with what it means to give, or you’re ready to discover the joy of partnering in the mission, this conversation is for you.Key Scriptures: Luke 8:1–3, 2 Corinthians 9:6–8Theme: Generosity, healing, partnership, cheerful giving🎧 Tune in and discover why the most joyful givers are always the ones who’ve been healed the most.

What happens when everything you thought you knew is turned upside down?A man born blind. A miracle made of mud and spit. A confrontation with religious power. And a healing that nobody asked for—but everyone needed.This is the story of John chapter 9.But it's more than just an ancient miracle. It's a map for anyone standing in the middle of a transition. A new job. A broken relationship. A faith that no longer fits. A season you didn't choose but cannot escape.In this episode, we explore what happens when God gives us new sight—and why that new sight never fits into our old lives. We'll uncover the three first fruits of spiritual vision: Clarity that ends the guessing game, Confidence that stands when questioned, and Connection that draws us closer to the Source than ever before.And we'll ask the hard question: When the new wine comes, are you still holding onto the old wineskin?If you've ever felt like your world is shifting beneath your feet, this episode is for you.Blessings,Rev. Rob.

We are busier than ever, but are we truly present? In a world addicted to distraction, the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well offers a radical alternative.In this episode, we explore John 4:5-42 and discover that our God is not a distant deity—He is a God of time and space who enters our dusty roads and sits at our wells. We unpack what it really means to steward our time, how vulnerable presence can tear down walls, and the three "first fruits" that appear when we learn to simply show up for others.If you've ever felt too busy to pause, too rushed to notice, or too exhausted to love well—this episode is for you.Have a listen to discover:Why time and presence is a gift to us from God.The difference between managing time and stewarding itWhat happens when we finally leave our "water jars" behind

What if we want to help people have a spiritual breaktrhough, but haven't had one ourselves?That was Nicodemus. Teacher of Israel. Expert in Scripture. Respected leader. And completely clueless about the one thing that mattered most.In this episode, we sit down with the nighttime conversation that changed everything. We tackle the questions no one wants to ask:Why do we pour into others while neglecting our own souls?What does it mean to be "born again" anyway?How do we steward relationships with people who are still in the dark?And what does "first fruits" have to do with any of this?If you've been serving, leading, teaching, or parenting on fumes—if your tank is empty but you keep trying to fill everyone else's—pull up a chair. This conversation is for you.

 Is Your Comfort Killing Your Calling? 🛑The devil doesn't always look like he is coming to destroy you. Sometimes, he comes to “comfort” you.In this week's episode, we're looking at the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4 and the three traps outlined in 1 John 2. Today we reflected on the hard questions:When does self-care become the lust of the flesh?When does chasing a spiritual experience become the lust of the eyes?When does pursuing success become the pride of life?We live in a world that prioritises feelings over faithfulness, and the spectacular over substance. But Jesus shows us a different way. He faced the tempter, stood on the Word, and now offers us not just sympathy, but solidarity.We also tackle a practical application that might surprise you: how giving your first fruits is helping you with gather the Holy Spirits power in the spiritual warfare you face.If you're ready to stop being tossed around by your emotions and start walking in your God-given identity, hit play when the site loads up.

What if the mountain revealed more than just light—what if it revealed the truth about every god you've ever served?This week we ascend the mountain of Transfiguration to witness the moment Jesus pulled back the veil on His divine glory. Not just a shining face or dazzling garments—but a definitive declaration that He stands above every authority, every power, and every so-called god humanity has ever worshipped.Moses and Elijah appear, then vanish. The Father's voice thunders. And when the cloud clears, only one remains: Jesus only.If you've ever wondered whether Jesus is enough—whether He truly outshines every competing voice, every lesser loyalty, every fear that claims your attention—this episode is for you.Listen now to "The Unveiled Glory." 

This is a podcast about our shared story of belonging. Jesus tells his people, “You are the salt of the earth… the light of the world.” That “you” is plural. This is a group project!In our podcast this week, we explore how our collective belonging to Christ equips us to preserve what’s good, flavour our communities with hope, and illuminate dark places. Through thoughtful teaching and real conversations, we’ll discover how to live this out—in our neighbourhoods, workplaces, and families. Because together, we’re a city on a hill that cannot be hidden.Join the conversation. Find your purpose within the story.

The Epiphany light has dawned. Now what?In Matthew 4, Jesus moves from being the revealed Light to issuing a radical invitation: "Come, follow me." What if the Wise Men's journey didn't end at the manger? What if it was actually the beginning of a path that leads straight to your local church's baptismal font?This episode explores how that same journey—from revelation to response—happens every time someone steps into the baptismal waters.We'll unpack how:• Epiphany shows us WHO (the revealed Christ)• Baptism declares WHOSE (our answered "yes")• Mission sends us FOR WHAT (God's work in the world)Featuring powerful insights from a live baptism service, we explore what it means to leave your "nets" behind and step into the waters of new identity and purpose. This is the episode that connects the star over the manger to the water in the font—and to your daily life.

Explore a profound reflection for Australia Day. This episode re-examines the concept of a "blessed nation" through the lens of Jesus' Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12), moving beyond celebration to a thoughtful call for humility, mercy, and peacemaking in our national life.

The journey from witnessing a truth to living it out is everything. Join us as we unpack how biblical moments of revelation—like finding the Messiah—provide the blueprint for our own transformative encounters with God. Continue listening as we will be exploring how you become the "John the Baptist" to help others move from beholding to belonging.

The Magi had a star to follow and a scripture to obey. One without the other would have left them lost. What does their ancient journey teach us about hearing from God today? We’re breaking down Matthew 2:1-12 to discover how to move from just knowing the Bible to following the living God it reveals.

The Christmas story isn't all angels and shepherds. This week, it's nightmares, a political massacre, and a desperate sprint to Egypt. We're exploring how God speaks in dreams, why deliverance sometimes looks like becoming a refugee, and where to find Emmanuel when you're far from home. The first Christmas was more gritty thriller than silent night.

Hope, peace, joy—they’re not just solo candles on a wreath. On this Fourth Sunday of Advent, we see how they’re all gathered up and fulfilled in one thing: the revolutionary Love born through Mary and the Holy Family. We’re diving into Isaiah’s promise, Joseph’s crisis, and Paul’s proclamation to discover how God’s love gathers our fear, our obedience, and our very identities. This is the culmination of Advent: the totality of Love that changes everything.

Before Jesus' first miracle or parable, there was his mother's song. In Luke 1:47-55, Mary’s Magnificat isn't just a prayer—it's the blueprint for a disciple. She shows us radical trust in God's promise, declares a revolution that lifts up the humble and fills the hungry, and becomes the first person to proclaim the gospel.This podcast looks past the stained glass to meet Mary: the courageous theologian, willing revolutionary, and model for anyone who wants to follow God. Discover how her world-turning song defines what it means to be a disciple, then and now.

Ever feel like you're doing everything "right" but the joy is gone? You're in good company. In Matthew 11, John the Baptist—languishing in a literal prison—struggled with doubt. We unpack his raw question to Jesus and the revolutionary reply that redefines freedom. Discover how moving from performance to presence, and from doubt to the evidence of grace, is how we step out of spiritual prison and into durable joy.

The second Advent candle flickers for peace. But what if the peace we’re waiting for isn’t cozy or quiet? What if it’s a cosmic revolution?This week, we’re heeding the prophets’ disruptive cry. We’ll unpack the stunning vision in Isaiah 11, where wolves bed down with lambs and justice flows like a river. Then, we’ll feel the scorching challenge of John the Baptist in Matthew 3, who screams in the wilderness that this peace demands a gut-level overhaul. Finally, we’ll see in Romans 15 how this wild hope forces us to build radically welcoming communities now.This isn’t a gentle lullaby. It’s a urgent briefing on the true shape of God’s Shalom and what it takes to be ready for the return of the Prince of Peace. If you think you know what "peace" means… the prophets are here to expand your imagination.Listen. Seek the vision. Seek the change. Seek to be part of it.#Advent #Prophets #Peace #JohnTheBaptist #Advent2 #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #AdventPodcast #ReadyForJesus

What if the "thief in the night" isn't a threat, but an invitation? This Advent, we're reframing Jesus' jarring words in Matthew 24 through the lives of the Patriarchs. They were the original experts in waiting for a promise they couldn't see. Their journeys show us how to build, journey, and wrestle with hope as a community, ready for the light that is surely coming.Our light is surely coming!

In the gospel reading today, we find our King enthroned on a cross outside the city walls. The message on the Feast of Christ the King this year is simple. Like Jesus we need to go beyond our walls and into the community.  Jesus was forcibly taken out of the city and crucified. The first people he ministered to were two criminals and the Roman guards. Today reminds us that we need to move beyond a mere celebration of Christ's authority and release the reality of His kingdom into our broken world. We need to be deliberate and intentional and placing our cross to where we are called to be and allow ourselves to be enthroned on it. This isn't a call to just do more; it's an invitation to do what we are called to do in places that make us feel uncomfortable or might not be savoury. Let’s make this a year where we move beyond the walls and into our community with a view to sharing testimony that helps the Holy Spirit convict others so we too can say to those we are ministering to, “Today you are in paradise with me.” Listen now and be equipped to carry the revolutionary love of our Servant-King into your everyday world.#ChristTheKing #Sermon #Podcast #FaithInAction #BeyondTheWalls #KingdomOfGod #Lectionary #YearC #ChristianMission #CommunityEngagement

Feeling overwhelmed by the news? Anxious about the future? You're not alone. Two thousand years ago, Jesus sat with his friends and gave them a framework for living in a world that feels like it's falling apart. This podcast takes that framework and applies it to our modern lives. This reflection explores how to move from fear to endurance, from idleness to purposeful work, and from despair to a hope rooted in the unshakable promise of redemption. Your journey toward a resilient and meaningful faith could start here.