St Helen's Sunday talks podcast

William Taylor - Death raises questions that every generation has faced: Is this really the end? What happens to those we love? In this passage, Paul points us to a hope that rests not on wishful thinking but on the risen Jesus. Because Christ died and rose again, those who belong to him have a future beyond the grave. Paul lifts our eyes to the day when Jesus will return, the dead will be raised, and God's people will be reunited with him forever. In a world marked by loss and uncertainty, these promises offer a deep and lasting hope that changes how we face both death and life today.

Tim Sheppard - We often look at the world—or our own lives—and wonder whether God has failed to deliver on what he promised. That was the question of Daniel’s readers. But as Daniel 9 shows us, God hadn’t failed them; he has kept every one of his promises. In fact, God is doing far more than they realised.

William Taylor - Were the Chancellor of the Exchequer to have a nation ‘ordered’ according to Paul’s teaching in 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – 12 all her problems would disappear! The Christian way is God’s way, and God’s way is the best way. But what produces such a radical change in conduct? The engine that drives gospel living is the gospel – and gospel proclamation, not political lobbying, is the only means to achieve God’s purposes.

William Taylor - Were the Chancellor of the Exchequer to have a nation ‘ordered’ according to Paul’s teaching in 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – 12 all her problems would disappear! The Christian way is God’s way, and God’s way is the best way. But what produces such a radical change in conduct? The engine that drives gospel living is the gospel – and gospel proclamation, not political lobbying, is the only means to achieve God’s purposes.

Tim Sheppard - So often those in power make us question whether God is really in control, and whether it is worth standing out as Christians. Daniel 7 records a vivid and unsettling dream that helps us make sense of a world marked by political upheaval and hostile powers. Yet at its centre stands a breathtaking vision of Jesus and his people—a vision that leaves us in no doubt which side we should want to be on.

Tim Sheppard - So often those in power make us question whether God is really in control, and whether it is worth standing out as Christians. Daniel 7 records a vivid and unsettling dream that helps us make sense of a world marked by political upheaval and hostile powers. Yet at its centre stands a breathtaking vision of Jesus and his people—a vision that leaves us in no doubt which side we should want to be on.

William Taylor - The first item on Paul’s list of new behaviours for a new Christian disciple is sex. The Christian gospel is nothing if not applied. The Christian community will be radically different because the Christian disciple has been called holy by the holy God.

William Taylor - The first item on Paul’s list of new behaviours for a new Christian disciple is sex. The Christian gospel is nothing if not applied. The Christian community will be radically different because the Christian disciple has been called holy by the holy God.

Phil Hudson - When the state is ‘friendly’ towards Christians, we might assume we won’t have to make a costly stand to remain faithful to the Lord. Daniel 6 shows us that even under ‘friendly’ rulers, moments will come when we need to choose between human favour or faithfulness to the Lord. And then it shows us that even ‘friendly’ rulers cannot save us, so we must stand firm with our God who alone is sovereign and saves to the uttermost.

Tim Sheppard - Life can feel like white-water rafting through dangerous rapids. As the waters churn around us, countless voices offer rescue. Daniel 6 exposes the limits of even the most powerful and well-intentioned human saviours. God alone can truly deliver. When the river of life finally throws us from the boat—as one day it must—whose arm will we be found holding?

George Diwakar - What are the real priorities of the Christian life? In 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13, Paul reveals the goals he prays for every believer and church: gospel proclamation, overflowing love for people, and perseverance until Christ returns.

Aneirin Glyn - The apostle Paul delighted in believers standing firm. This compelled him to pray continually, and from the content of his prayer we see what matters in the Christian life.

Phil Hudson - What do God’s people need to know to stand firm and take courage when rulers opposed to God and his people seem so immovable? In Daniel 5, we meet King Belshazzar, who sets himself against God and his people and seems be without rival. But this chapter shows us the precarious position of proud rulers: because pride is seen by God, and he will prosecute it. Knowing God rules all rulers helps us stand firm with the sovereign God.

William Taylor - Some will have heard the Apostle Paul described as cold, retentive, misogynistic, or even homophobic. Nothing could be further from the truth, and little could be more dangerous to a person’s eternal wellbeing than seeing Paul in such a way. 1 Thessalonians 3 will lead us to appreciate and give thanks for all true gospel ministry.

William Taylor - Some will have heard the Apostle Paul described as cold, retentive, misogynistic, or even homophobic. Nothing could be further from the truth, and little could be more dangerous to a person’s eternal wellbeing than seeing Paul in such a way. 1 Thessalonians 3 will lead us to appreciate and give thanks for all true gospel ministry.

Peter Adam - Psalm 100 calls us to a life of joyful prayerfulness: 'I will give thanks… I will praise…' It is a psalm of thanksgiving that urges all the earth to make a joyful noise to the Lord, to serve him with gladness, and to come into his presence with singing. We thank and praise God because he made us, we are his people, and he is our good and faithful Shepherd. His steadfast love endures for ever, and his faithfulness continues to all generations. In Jesus Christ, all God’s promises find their 'Yes'. As we pray, we respond with thanksgiving, praise, and confidence, knowing that one day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Peter Adam - Psalm 100 calls us to a life of joyful prayerfulness: 'I will give thanks… I will praise…' It is a psalm of thanksgiving that urges all the earth to make a joyful noise to the Lord, to serve him with gladness, and to come into his presence with singing. We thank and praise God because he made us, we are his people, and he is our good and faithful Shepherd. His steadfast love endures for ever, and his faithfulness continues to all generations. In Jesus Christ, all God’s promises find their 'Yes'. As we pray, we respond with thanksgiving, praise, and confidence, knowing that one day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

William Taylor - In praising God for the Thessalonians, Paul gives them two marks of a healthy church that is standing firm. Our attitude to God’s word, and to persecution are sure indicators of our spiritual health.

William Taylor - In praising God for the Thessalonians, Paul gives them two marks of a healthy church that is standing firm. Our attitude to God’s word, and to persecution are sure indicators of our spiritual health.

Peter Adam - Psalm 62 reminds us that prayer is not polished performance but honest dependence. Because God alone is our rock, salvation, and refuge, we can both wait quietly before him and pour out our hearts to him. David’s prayer is filled with praise and patience, but also grief, fear, frustration, and protest. He teaches us that trust and honesty belong together: 'Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before him, for God is our refuge'. As we follow the Lord Jesus—the man of sorrows who wept, suffered, and cried out to his Father—we are invited to bring every burden, sorrow, and weakness to God in prayer, trusting that he hears, comforts, and saves.

Peter Adam - Psalm 62 reminds us that prayer is not polished performance but honest dependence. Because God alone is our rock, salvation, and refuge, we can both wait quietly before him and pour out our hearts to him. David’s prayer is filled with praise and patience, but also grief, fear, frustration, and protest. He teaches us that trust and honesty belong together: 'Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before him, for God is our refuge'. As we follow the Lord Jesus—the man of sorrows who wept, suffered, and cried out to his Father—we are invited to bring every burden, sorrow, and weakness to God in prayer, trusting that he hears, comforts, and saves.

Jack Stileman - How can you tell God has been at work in your life? In 1 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Paul shows us the cost and conduct of real Christian ministry: a gospel supplied freely, without charge, and a minister who went person by person — exhorting, encouraging, charging — to spur each one to walk worthily of God. Real Christianity. Produced by real Christian ministry. God at work in your life.

Aneirin Glyn - How are we to live a life that matters? Paul’s example shows us how serving the living and true God is weighty and leads to glory.

Drew Balch - The most powerful man in the world tells his story: not of pride and triumph, but of humiliation and transformation. King Nebuchadnezzar learns the hard way that God alone rules over all kingdoms and all people. Why does pride lie at the root of our rebellion against God and why does it ultimately leads to downfall?

Drew Balch - The most powerful man in the world tells his story: not of pride and triumph, but of humiliation and transformation. King Nebuchadnezzar learns the hard way that God alone rules over all kingdoms and all people. Why does pride lie at the root of our rebellion against God and why does it ultimately leads to downfall?

Jack Stileman - Real Christians need real reassurance. In chapter 1, Paul reassured the Thessalonians of their real Christianity. In chapter 2, he continues by reminding them of the real Christian ministry that produced it – his own. His mission, his motive, and his manner. Gospel-speaking. God-pleasing. Life-giving.

Aneirin Glyn - What is a Christian? The apostle Paul describes here what Christians believe, why it’s true, why it matters, and how to respond.

Phil Hudson - In Daniel chapter 3 we read the only recorded words of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. This chapter is here to equip us to be able to say them: 'But if not...we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.' (Daniel 3:18) And so, we see the world wants our worship. It’s fierce, but it’s a farce. And our God alone is worthy of our worship because he saves his people.

Drew Balch - In a world that demands conformity, Daniel 3 confronts us with a stark question: bow or burn? Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to compromise, even when the cost is a fiery death. Their courage isn’t reckless; it’s rooted in the deep confidence that God can save… and even if he doesn’t, he is still worth trusting. Following God is never meant to be safe, though it is meant to be true. Will we stand, even when it costs us?

Jack Stileman - There are many great things you might become in your life. But nothing – nothing – is better than becoming a Christian. What does that actually look like? In 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, Paul holds up the Thessalonians as the example of real conversion: turning to God, to serve him, and to wait for his Son, Jesus.

Aneirin Glyn - How can joy go hand in hand with affliction? Paul is overflowing with thankfulness for how the Thessalonian believers have been transformed by receiving the word about Jesus. The pattern of their lives is because they are loved by God and chosen by him.

Phil Hudson - When Christians face pressure to conform to the world or when the world seems unsettling, how can we be confident it is wise to stand firm with our God? In Daniel 2 we see the limits of human wisdom exposed and the firm foundation of God’s revelation declared: God reveals the future and his kingdom rules forever.

Drew Balch - No one can truly predict the future. Even the most powerful rulers are left anxious, grasping for control. Today we meet a king who has everything, yet cannot sleep. This passage pulls back the curtain on reality: only God reveals what is hidden, and only God’s kingdom will last. The future is an open secret! In a world of shifting power, political uncertainty, and cultural pressure, this chapter shows us why we can live with confidence, and what it looks like to stand firm in our modern-day Babylon.

Jack Stileman - What does real Christianity look like? In 1 Thessalonians 1, Paul holds up a mirror to a young church under pressure and shows us: real roots, real power, real joy.

Aneirin Glyn - The word reaches Thessalonica, and makes a dramatic impact. There are young believers, in the midst of fierce opposition. These verses set our expectations for what happens when the truth is declared that Jesus is the Christ.

Phil Hudson - The normal Christian experience is to find the world opposed to God applying pressure to conform to its ways. So, what will help us stand firm? In Daniel chapter 1 we meet our God and learn that he reigns, even when human powers look to have won. And that he is unfailingly faithful to his people. Knowing this we are equipped to resist pressure and stand firm.

Drew Balch - How do we live faithfully in a world that doesn’t share, or even opposes, our beliefs? God’s people are in exile: taken from Jerusalem and placed in the heart of Babylon. It’s a story that feels strikingly familiar. Like Daniel, Christians today live in a world that subtly pressures, shapes, and tempts us to compromise. Daniel doesn’t withdraw from Babylon, nor does he blend into it. Instead, he lives faithfully within it, trusting God’s sovereignty and drawing clear lines of loyalty.

Tim Sheppard - Sometimes the good news of Easter doesn’t feel as life-changing as it should—but Paul’s famous words in 1 Corinthians 15 are designed to change that. In one stunning verse, he shows us that Jesus’ resurrection is not just good news but certain news—providing certainty that he rose from the dead, and that we will too.

George Diwakar - A brief reflection introducing readings on Mark’s Passion from the centurion’s statement in Mark 15:39: 'Truly this man was the Son of God'.

George Diwakar - In a time of national decline and despair, 2 Kings 13:14–25 reminds us where true hope lies. Even as Israel faces judgment and death, God’s grace still remains and his word still has power to give life. When everything else collapses, the promises of God endure—and through his word he can still bring people from death to life.

Aneirin Glyn - Why is the number of strikes with the arrows so important? Why is a man returned to life only after being thrown into a grave? The writer of Kings wants us to think hard, to realise that the word of Lord both demands comprehensive obedience and brings life from the dead.

William Taylor - James concludes his letter by laying out the pattern for a Christian’s restoration. The verses speak to the weak, the wobbly, and the wandering. The whole church is to be involved in restoring the sinner.

William Taylor - James concludes his letter by laying out the pattern for a Christian’s restoration. The verses speak to the weak, the wobbly, and the wandering. The whole church is to be involved in restoring the sinner.

George Diwakar - Delay can be deadly – especially when responding to the word of the LORD. God’s people, Israel, had so many chances to listen, but they didn’t take them. When judgment arrived, it was too little, too late. Will we make the same mistake, or will we listen to Jesus as saviour before his return as judge?

Nick Heeley - In 2 Kings 8, we see a final glimpse of the life God offers through Elisha, before the long-delayed judgement on the house of Ahab is finally set in motion. Yet these verses also reveal that Israel has already faced a kind of judgement—divided in two by how people respond to Elisha’s life-giving ministry. The certainty of coming judgement is a warning to those who have not yet turned to Jesus, reminding us that delay does not mean it will not come. At the same time, the passage encourages Christians to persevere in serving the God who faithfully provides for his people.

William Taylor - James’ aim for his readers is that we are completer-finishers. He is adamant that the Lord Jesus is returning – imminently – and that we therefore need to be steadfast and patient. But patience involves action: disciplined with regard to our hearts, tongues, trials and promises.

George Diwakar - In a dramatic episode from the life of Elisha, God’s people appear surrounded and helpless before their enemies. Yet this ‘Oscar-worthy’ story shows that God’s word cannot be stopped. As God opens eyes, protects his prophet, and even shows mercy to his enemies, we see that nothing can stand against his purposes. This passage calls us to trust God’s power, sovereignty, and grace even when his people seem outnumbered or afraid.