Sunday Sermons

Bible Scripture: John 15: 1-17Abide in Me, Abide in my LoveObey my Commandments How can I love Jesus? Spend time with HimListen & ObeyGift Him the preciousTalk about Him all the timeWho is my neighbor? and How can I love them?

John 14:15-31Why do we need this relationship?How do we enter this relationship?How does this relationship affect us?

 The story of the prodigal son: reframed as "Two Lost Sons"—one lost through rebellion, the other through self-righteous religion.The Younger Son's Journey: Demands inheritance early (culturally wishing father dead), squanders it, hits rock bottom feeding pigs, and prepares to ask for servant status—but is embraced before finishing his speech.The Father's Response: Waits daily, runs undignified toward his son to cover his shame, and restores him with robe (honor), ring (authority), and sandals (sonship), celebrating his return.The Older Brother's Perspective: Represents religious pride—obedient but resentful, refuses celebration, calls him "your son" not "my brother," revealing his disconnection. Both sons are lost—one in sin, one in pride. The father's love is neither earned by performance nor withheld due to failure.

Mark 16:1-8The Significance of SundayWhy the Cross Was NecessaryWhat Awaits BelieversThe Holy Spirit's Role"Sunday people in a Friday world": Death isn't the end—it's the doorway to eternity.

Scripture from Mark 11:Jesus' Entry Into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday)Misaligned ExpectationsThe Fig Tree Incident Temple CleansingMain Applications:Don't construct Jesus based on personal/political viewsAvoid adding requirements to faith that Jesus never required ("yeast of the Pharisees")Jesus wants fruit, not just leaves (genuine faith vs. religious appearance)Surrender our agenda to God rather than telling Him what to doLife with Jesus is unpredictable, not planned with safety nets

Passage: Mark 8:27 - 9:1Jesus leads disciples from Bethsaida to Caesarea Philippi (3-day uphill journey)Key question posed: "Who do you say I am?"Peter confesses Jesus as the ChristJesus predicts his suffering, rejection, death, and resurrectionPeter rebukes Jesus; Jesus responds "Get behind me, Satan"Teaching on self-denial, taking up the cross, and following JesusThe Transfiguration on a high mountain (likely Mount Hermon)

Scripture: Mark 8:22-26Main ThemesStories matter — Familiarity shouldn't diminish the wonder of ScriptureJesus healed in varied ways — Spitting, mud, spoken word, touch, etc.Two-stage healing is unique — Only miracle in Scripture done progressivelySpiritual clarity develops gradually — Like the blind man, faith can be partial before becoming clearHonesty with God — The man spoke truthfully about what he saw; Jesus welcomed this

Bible scripture: Luke 17Honesty Meets Grace David's Example & Jesus in GethsemaneCounting It All JoySpiritual MaturityDivine Proximity

Sermon on Mark 7: 1-23 Jesus rebukes Pharisees for valuing human traditions (hand‑washing) over God’s law.Pattern: Churches add extra rules (“hedges”) to protect holiness, but these can become more important than Scripture.Denominational splits often start over minor issues (dress, worship style, rituals).

Biblical Passage: (Acts 2:42‑47)The four core practices of the early church:Teaching of the apostlesFellowshipBreaking of bread (communion/meals)Prayers

Key Passage: Mark 6:45-52 Jesus' Authority over Time, Distance, Nature, Future, and Destiny. On the MountainsideShortly before the dawnTake courage, don't be afraid, it is I

Key Passage Mark 6: 30-44 (The Feeding of the Five Thousands)“What do you have in your hands today?”“How many loaves do you have?” (encouraging inventory of gifts)“Why does Mark mention ‘green grass’?” (prompting deeper scriptural study)Trust that God multiplies what is offered to Him.Keep returning to Jesus for rest, guidance, and empowerment rather than trying to solve everything on your own.

Bible Passage: Mark 6: 7-13 Jesus sends the twelve two‑by‑two, giving them authority over unclean spirits and minimal supplies.Comparison to the Exodus narrative (staff, sandals, belt) and to Numbers 13‑14 (the twelve spies, Caleb’s faith versus the fearful ten).Highlights the symbolic link between the disciples and the twelve tribes of Israel.

Jesus redefines family – In Mark 3 He says “whoever does God’s will is my brother, sister, and mother,” expanding family from blood ties to a spiritual community of believers.Love is the core of a healthy family – True family life hinges on intentional, sacrificial love—not just genetics or tradition.Faith‑based bonds surpass biological ones – The “blood of the Lamb” (Christ’s sacrifice) creates a stronger, lasting connection than the “water of the womb.”Avoid legalism; pursue relationship – Like the Pharisees, focusing on rules can divide; Jesus calls us to relational obedience that unites people in God’s family.

Withered Hearts Key Passage: Mark 3:1-6 & 3:22-27 The Expert's Trap: Who is the real JUDGE?The house divided: Plundering the STRONG MANThe Familiarity Trap: Missing the DIVINEThe mystery of the MUSTER SEED

Key passage in Mark 2:1‑12Friends’ faith‑filled actionScribes’ silent doubtParalytic’s immediate obedienceCrowd’s amazement

Scripture ReadingRead Luke 2:1‑7 (birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the census, the manger).Illustration of “King Arrival”Compare the expected triumphant, militaristic Messiah with the humble birth of Jesus.Emphasize that God’s power is shown through love and humility, not force.Historical ContextReference to the Roman Empire’s oppression and Jewish expectations of a warrior‑king (Numbers 24:17).Mention of a past diplomatic visit (George W. Bush in Dubai, 2008) to contrast worldly displays of power with the modest nativity.Theological InsightJesus’ incarnation as a “kenosis” (self‑emptying) – God becoming servant.Power redefined: true power = humility, service, and sacrificial love.Hebrews 4:15 & Philippians 2 highlighted: Jesus identifies with human weakness and obeys to death.

Key passage: Luke 2:22‑38Simeon: Righteous, devout, waiting for the “consolation of Israel.” The Holy Spirit reveals he will not die before seeing the Messiah. He blesses the infant Jesus, proclaiming salvation for all peoples.Anna: Elderly prophetess, lifelong worshiper who never leaves the temple, fasting and praying day and night. She gives thanks and proclaims the Messiah to all awaiting redemption.Themes drawn from Simeon & AnnaActive waiting: Not passive patience but devoted prayer, worship, and gratitude.Hunger for God’s face: Longing to see and know the Messiah personally.Thanksgiving: Immediate praise when encountering God’s work.

After God's Own HeartJeremiah 3:15 – God will raise shepherds after His own heart.Acts 20 (especially verses 26‑32) – Paul’s charge to the elders, warning, and encouragement.Brief mentions of Romans 1, Ezekiel 33 (watchman), and 1 Peter 5 (elder/overseer/shepherd terminology).Discussion of the interchangeable terms elder, overseer, bishop, and pastor in the New Testament.Leadership & EldershipElders are called to care for the flock, remain vigilant, and bear responsibility for the spiritual welfare of the church.The importance of teamwork: elders should not become isolated “power figures.”Warning against hierarchical structures that can lead to politics, legalism, and division.Elders are called to LOVE, LEAD, and FEED

"Qualified to Go, No Missed Calls with Jesus"Distinction between salvation and callingBiblical examples of the unqualified called (Simon, Andrew, James, and John) ordinary laborers repurposed as “fishers of men.”Paul (Pharisee), Luke (physician), Timothy (young) – each brought unique, non‑traditional assets.God calls the unqualifiedGod looks for availabilityPractical application: Recognize your own ordinary gifts; trust God to qualify you.Embrace humility and dependence on the Holy Spirit rather than personal ambition.View every vocation (cleaner, teacher, etc.)

Key Biblical Passage (Mark 1 – Luke 4)Morning: Jesus teaches in the synagogue and casts out demons (public authority).Afternoon: He visits Simon Peter’s house; heals Peter’s mother‑in‑law of a high fever (personal, intimate service).Evening: Crowds bring the sick and demon‑oppressed; Jesus heals many and drives out demons, despite the crowd’s clamor.Spiritual LessonsValue of Both Major & Minor MomentsAuthority Given to BelieversPrayer for All NeedsJesus’ Rhythm of Rest & Recharge*Mark 1:35 – Early‑morning solitude: Jesus retreats to a desolate place to pray.Emphasizes that even a busy Messiah needed intentional time with the Father for strength.Encourages believers to seek quiet, solitary prayer amid busyness (citing Martin Luther, Richard Foster, and the “Celebration of Discipline”).Practical ApplicationRecognize the “loudest voice” (distractions, notifications) that competes for atention.Prioritize deliberate solitude and prayer to recharge spiritually.

Authority vs. Expertise IllustrationWhy Jesus Entered the SynagogueJesus Teaching with Authority (Mark 1:21‑22)Demonstration of Spiritual Authority (Mark 1:23‑28)Practical Takeaways for the CongregationRecognize that true authority comes from identity in Christ, not merely knowledge.Engage the local community (church/synagogue) as the primary arena for living out the Kingdom.Trust that believers share in Christ’s authority over spiritual darkness through the Holy Spirit.

Three‑part pattern for responding to God’s call (based on Mark 1:10‑12)Foundation – Power & IdentityTesting / WildernessMissionKey points:Self‑control (Galatians 5) is a fruit of the Spirit; parents must teach it.True identity in Christ protects against the devil’s accusations.Worship and service flow from who we are in Christ, not from what we do.Idolatry warning: don’t let personal ambitions become the ultimate purpose.Faith without demanding signs; trust God’s provision (Deuteronomy 6:13‑16).

Opening narrative – John the Baptist serves as the “hype man,” preparing the way as foretold in Isaiah; his ministry fulfills Old‑Testament buildup.Key passage (Mark 1:1‑10) – Introduction of Jesus’ baptism, the heavens tearing open, the Spirit descending like a dove, and God’s voice declaring Jesus His beloved Son.Baptism explainedSpiritual implicationsRepentance clarifiedApplication challenge 

Purpose of the Series – A deep, slow study of the Gospel of Mark.Historical Context of MarkCharacteristics of Mark’s GospelCall to Personal EngagementPractical Tips for Studying Mark

Faithfulness in Small ThingsLuke 16 (Parable of the Unjust Steward) – faithfulness in little matters predicts greater responsibility.Identity as Children of GodContrast “servants” (working for blessings) with “sons/daughters” (inherited relationship with the Father).Ephesians 1:3 – believers are chosen as God’s children, not merely laborers.Money as a Spiritual BarometerMoney reveals heart priorities, fears, and allegiances.“You cannot serve two masters” – loyalty to God versus mammon.Practical ChallengeIdentify “little things” you’ve neglected (time, generosity, integrity).Examine personal “time preference”: high (immediate gratification) vs. low (future‑oriented stewardship).

Like tasting the first apple or mango from a tree you’ve nurtured, the first fruit represents a tangible, joyful experience that hints at future abundance.Believers view Christ’s work and presence as the initial “taste” of God’s blessings—something we can experience now.The present experience is a preview of an eternal, overflowing harvest that will be fully realized in the age to come.Encourage listeners to recall a moment when they sensed God’s love, peace, or provision—their own “first‑fruit” experience.Old‑Testament first‑fruits (Leviticus 23:10‑14; Deuteronomy 26) were offerings acknowledging God’s provision and pointing forward to Christ, the ultimate first‑born sacrifice.Show that the blessings we enjoy now are both a present reality and a promise of greater, everlasting fulfillment.

Opening illustration – “Mr. Walker in the hole”Man falls into a deep hole; advice, medicine, or “make peace” don’t free him.Only someone who enters the hole with him can rescue him.Christ as the rescuer, Jesus doesn’t just give instructions; He jumps into the hole (incarnation, death, resurrection) and pulls us out.Paul’s focus in 1 Cor 15Four essential facts: Christ’s death Burial Resurrection Post‑resurrection appearances.Witness testimony is crucial because rising from the dead is extraordinary.If there is no resurrection, then Christ did not rise → the gospel is void → faith is futile.Adam vs. Christ (Romans 5:12‑21)Adam introduced death; Christ’s resurrection reverses that curse.Practical implications of the resurrectionGives courage to endure suffering (Romans 8, 2 Cor 4).Provides an eternal perspective that outweighs present trials.Supplies moral urgency: without resurrection, life lacks lasting meaning.Unique authority: Jesus says “Come, follow me” and personally leads the way.Resurrection guarantees a future “harvest” of believers; believers are commissioned to participate.

Biblical Passage – Leviticus 23The sermon focuses on the seven feasts prescribed in Leviticus, especially the Feast of First Fruits.Key verses (Leviticus 23:9‑14)The offering is meant to be a “lasting ordinance” for future generations.Practical Application Modern Christian life:* Modeling generosity and gratitude for what God provides.* Teaching children by example—how we pray, worship, give, and treat one another matters more than perfection.What is our “first fruits”—time, talent, resources—are offerings to God.

Opening with the story of Soishi Yokoi (Japanese soldier)Main passage: Ephesians 2:1–10Bad news (vv. 1–3):Good news (vv. 4–7):Purpose (vv. 8–10):Application & reflection:Life itself is the firstfruit offering to God.Not just about money, church attendance, or occasional giving.The call is to offer our entire lives to God in response to His grace.

Principles of First Fruits, it is a heart issue rather than just a matter of harvest.The story of Cain and Abel The importance of giving one's best to God in faith.

Sunday Sermon, 31st of August 2025Released Souls:Change the environment The Practice: Conscious Gaze The Result: JoyThe Principle: Priesthood of all believersThe Practice: Sacrament of an Ordinary DayThe Power: Holy Spirit Within

🕊️ **Restored Soul – Part 2** In this message, we explore the emotional depth and divine design of the human soul, created in the image of a God who feels love, grief, joy, and zeal. Drawing from Psalm 23 and a rich tapestry of scriptures, the sermon outlines eight essential needs of the soul: 1. **A Keeper** – Psalm 23:1 2. **Rest** – Psalm 23:2; Exodus 20:8-10; Mark 2:27 3. **Freedom** – Psalm 23:3; Ephesians 2:10 4. **God’s Presence** – Psalm 23:4; Hebrews 10:19 5. **Blessing** – Psalm 23:5; 3 John 1:2; John 7:37-39 6. **Satisfaction** – Psalm 23:1; Psalm 42:1; Philippians 3:20-21 7. **Gratitude** – Psalm 23:6; Philippians 4:11-13; 1 Thessalonians 5:18 8. **A Future** – Psalm 23:6; Colossians 3:1-2; Revelation 21:1-4

Preaching Series: Redeem Our SoulsPreacher: Bertus NelFeeling a deep exhaustion that goes beyond a lack of sleep? In a world that prizes independence, many of us are living with a heavy burden on our souls. In this powerful message, Pastor [Your Name] dives into Psalm 23 to reveal how Jesus, our Good Shepherd, restores us from brokenness to wholeness.Discover the nine fundamental needs of your soul and how the Shepherd meets each one—from providing rest in "green pastures" to guiding you on the "right paths" to prepare a table for you in the presence of your enemies. This sermon challenges the modern gospel of self-sufficiency and invites you to embrace the easy yoke of Christ.Learn to "work out your salvation," not by striving, but by consistently turning your soul to the One who knows you completely. It's time to stop carrying the weight of a broken soul and find true rest in the Shepherd's care.The Soul Needs a Keeper: The first verse of Psalm 23, "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing," establishes the central relationship of the soul finding health in dependence on God, not independence. The world promotes self-sufficiency, but the Kingdom of God requires greater dependence. This is supported by scriptures like 2 Corinthians 12:9 and Matthew 5:5. The sermon emphasizes that David understood he had to flourish by accepting that there was no one else to shepherd him.The Soul Needs Rest: The second point, based on Psalm 23:2, "He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters," highlights the Shepherd's provision of a place for rest and quiet renewal as an antidote to a frantic pace of life. The sermon connects this to the Sabbath, referencing Exodus 20:8-10, and states that the Sabbath was made for the needs of people, not the other way around, as stated by Jesus in Mark 2:27. The purpose of Sabbath is to rest and celebrate the Creator.The Soul Needs Freedom: This point is derived from Psalm 23:3, "He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake". The sermon explains that true freedom comes from being led by the Holy Spirit, which liberates a person from the consequences of poor choices and the anxiety of self-determination. The sermon also cites Ephesians 2:10, noting that believers are God's workmanship, created to walk in the good works He prepared beforehand. This guidance is received through the Word of God (Psalm 1:2-3) and the Spirit of God (Psalm 143:10).The Soul Needs to Be with God: The fourth point is based on Psalm 23:4, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me". The sermon states that fear is eliminated not by the absence of danger, but by the constant presence of the Shepherd. This presence is what transforms daily life and provides comfort. The sermon explains that while sin created a veil between God and mankind, the blood of Jesus gives believers the confidence to enter holy places (Hebrews 10:19). The sermon concludes this point with a reference to Revelation 3:20, where Jesus invites believers to have intimacy and fellowship with him.

Preaching Series: Save Our SoulsPreacher: Bertus NelDefining the Soul: The soul is the deepest part of who you are, the "integration center" that weaves together your thoughts, feelings, choices, body, and social context. It is who you are, while your body is just a vehicle for it. God did not give Adam a soul; he became a living soul, as seen in Genesis 2:7 (ESV) where "nephesh" is translated as "living creature" or "living soul". Your soul exists without your body, but your body cannot exist without your soul. The soul is made by God, for God, and to need God. It is the part of you that is from God and inherently seeks its source, finding true rest only when focused on Him.The Exhaustion of Hiding: Despite God's intimate knowledge, we often live as if we are not known, which leads to profound exhaustion. This habit of hiding goes back to the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve hid from God after they sinned (Genesis 3:8). Sin "drinks up the spirit and all the vigor of the soul" and darkens communion with God. The sermon highlights several "hiding spots," including perfectionism, people-pleasing, secret-keeping, and busyness, all of which are attempts to hide from our flaws and avoid vulnerability. This hiding is a "self-imposed prison".The Solution: Finding Rest in Being Fully Known: The solution is to find rest in the "liberating truth that we are already fully known and yet deeply loved". Psalm 139 serves as a "breathtaking declaration" of God's intimate knowledge and inescapable presence. There is nowhere we can go to escape His presence, as described in Psalm 139:7-12 (NIV). This truth is a promise, not a threat, that nothing can put you outside of His presence or beyond His loving gaze. We are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14), and even our deepest flaws are known to the One who designed us. Jesus invites us to stop pretending and find rest in Him by surrendering the heavy burdens of hiding and performance (Matthew 11:28-30).The four ways we tend to hide are:The Perfectionist's Burden: Striving tirelessly to be flawless because we believe our worth is tied to our achievements and external approval. We fear any mistake will reveal our inadequacy. This is a "left-half" strategy that starves the "right half" of our soul which longs for unconditional love.The People-Pleaser's Fatigue: Constantly adjusting ourselves to fit others' expectations, losing touch with our authentic selves because disapproval is unbearable. This is an idolatry, seeking intimacy from people instead of from God.The Secret Keeper's Isolation: Carrying burdens and past hurts in silence, convinced that revealing them would lead to rejection or judgment. This leads to deep loneliness. Shame and guilt are the tools of the enemy, and this hiding isolates the part of our soul that longs for vulnerability and intimacy.The Busy Achiever's Restlessness: Filling our lives with constant activity to avoid confronting the parts of ourselves we don't want to see or the emptiness we're trying to outrun. This is a "left-half" distraction that avoids the deeper, often uncomfortable, emotional and relational work of the "right half".Genesis 2:7 (ESV)Genesis 3:8-9 (ESV) Psalm 139 (ESV)Matthew 10:28 (ESV) Matthew 11:28-30 1 Corinthians 15:53 (ESV)

Preacher: Cody1 Thessalonians 4

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Preaching Series: Book of ActsPreacher: Bertus Nel

Preaching Series: Book of ActsPreacher: Bertus Nel

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Series on the Gospel of JohnPreacher: Nigel Rea

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A sermon looking at what our approach to money should be from scripture, and why Jesus spent so much time teaching on it?Preacher: Bertus Nel

Sermon series on the Gospel of John

Sermons series on the Gospel of JohnPreacher: Bertus Nel

Preaching series on the Gospel of JohnPreacher: Bertus Nel