St John's Wishart Sermons

Faced with famine and fear, Abram doubts God’s promises, deceives Pharaoh, and places Sarai in danger to save himself. Yet despite Abram’s unfaithfulness, God remains faithful. In this sermon from St John’s Wishart, we explore how God rescues his people not because they are worthy, but because he is gracious. This passage points beyond Abram to the greater rescue found in Jesus Christ, where God proves once and for all that his promises rest not on our performance, but on his steadfast love and faithfulness.

From the chaos of Genesis 1–11 to one man in Genesis 12, this episode traces God’s bold plan to rescue a broken world. “The Call of Abraham” unpacks God’s surprising choice, his sweeping promises, and Abraham’s radical response. Can God really be trusted? His words say yes and history seals it. See how every promise points forward to Jesus, where blessing reaches all nations. This isn’t blind faith; it’s grounded trust in a faithful God.

In this sermon from 1 Corinthians 15:35–58, we explore the breathtaking hope of the resurrection body. Paul shows that what is now perishable, weak, and earthly will be raised imperishable, glorious, and spiritual through the power of God. Just as a seed is transformed into something far greater, so too will our bodies be renewed in Christ. Because Jesus has conquered sin and death, the grave has lost its sting and our future is secure. This hope calls us to stand firm, abound in the Lord’s work, and live knowing that nothing done for Christ is ever in vain.

In this sermon from Nathan Lovell, we see that God calls on everyday ordinary people like you and me to participate in his Gospel mission.

This year our Public Lecture was delivered by Dr Nathan Lovell. Nathan helped us think through the tough topic of genocide and violence in the Old Testament and how we reconcile that with a loving God.

In this sermon on 1 Corinthians, we see the great news that because Jesus is risen all who put their trust in Jesus will rise again when he returns. Because Jesus has risen and will come again to destroy death we can have the great assurance and hope of eternal life. If this didn't happen, then we are all fools! Preacher: Michael Calder

This Easter, we saw that Jesus is the risen Lord of all with authority over death! He alone is worthy of our trust and when we put our trust in him, we can be assured of new life now and eternal life to come. Preacher: Michael Calder

This is the good news of Good Friday: Jesus died in our place so we might be forgiven, freed, and given new life. In the Garden, Jesus wrestles in anguish yet submits to the Father’s will, choosing to drink the cup we deserve. On the Cross, he bears our sin, endures abandonment, and opens the way back to God. In his Sacrifice, justice is satisfied and mercy is poured out—our guilt removed, our shame lifted, our relationship with God restored.

What captivates your life? In Gospel of Mark 14:3–9, a woman’s radical act of devotion to Jesus exposes what truly matters. While others see waste, she sees worth—pouring out everything in response to the beauty of Christ and the nearness of His death. As the disciples miss the moment, Jesus honours her sacrifice as a glimpse of the gospel itself.  Preacher: Philip Calder

This is the tenth sermon in our Mark series. Preacher: Chris Boyce

This is our ninth sermon in our series in Mark. Unfortunately, we had some technical difficulties on Sunday but the echo is fixed 4min into the recording. Preacher: Mark Calder

In this sermon, we saw that there is no “next best” after Christ. He is the fulfilment of the Law and the Prophets, standing with Moses and Elijah. He is declared by the Father to be His beloved Son—radiant in glory and worthy of our obedience. And this glorious Son has come to suffer and rise. The pinnacle of salvation history is revealed. Preacher: Michael Calder

What does it actually mean to be a Christian? In this talk from St John’s Wishart, we hit a turning point in Gospel of Mark 8:27–38. Peter finally says it out loud: Jesus is the Messiah. But Jesus quickly explains that being God’s Messiah means suffering, dying, and rising again — and that following Him means taking up our cross. It’s easy to be a fan of Jesus. It’s much harder to follow Him. Preacher: Michael Calder

We love insider knowledge - the secret scoop. But what if the greatest mystery in history isn’t hidden? In Mark 4, Jesus reveals that the Kingdom of God has been made known and it’s growing. Through the parables of the sower and the mustard seed, we see a Kingdom that is both knowable and unstoppable. The question is not whether God is at work, but how we are listening. Will our hearts be hard, shallow, distracted, or receptive?

In this sermon from St John’s Wishart, we explore the heart of one of the Bible’s most confronting questions: Who do you say Jesus is? As the religious leaders accuse him of working with evil and even his own family misunderstand him, Jesus declares that he is the Stronger Man—binding Satan, driving out evil, and calling people into a new family under his lordship. This answer isn’t just theological; it’s life-changing now, and eternity-shaping forever.

What do we really need most? In Mark 2:1–12, Jesus shows that our deepest problem isn’t physical weakness but sin. As a paralysed man is lowered through a roof by faithful friends, Jesus does the unexpected—he forgives sins. In doing so, Jesus claims divine authority, provoking outrage and awe. When he then heals the man, it proves what his words already declared: Jesus has authority on earth to forgive sins. This sermon explores our deepest need and the forgiving Lord who alone can meet it—fully, freely, and forever.

In Mark 1:14–45, Jesus announces astonishing news: the Kingdom of God has drawn near. In a world longing for stability, peace, and something better, Jesus comes as the true King who brings a Kingdom that lasts forever. This sermon traces the King’s command to repent and believe, the King’s authority over teaching, sickness, and evil, and the King’s compassionate character toward the outcast and broken. Far from nostalgic dreams of a better past, Mark shows us a greater hope—life under God’s good rule, entered through repentance and faith in Jesus, the gracious and powerful King.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ launches us into Mark 1:1–13, a fast-paced, unfiltered introduction to Jesus. Mark wastes no time declaring his headline: Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and his arrival is truly good news. This episode explores what “gospel” really means—not good advice, but news of what God has already done for us. We meet John the Baptist preparing the way, witness Jesus’ baptism and divine affirmation, and see him stand firm where Israel failed. This is the beginning of a life-changing story: Jesus, our Saviour, has come.

This is the second sermon from our New Year series looking at Hebrews 10:19-22. Preacher: Daniel Elvery

This is our first sermon for 2025 where Mark Calder encourages us to draw near to God.

After the fullness of Christmas fades, what truly satisfies? In Luke 2:22–38, we meet Simeon and Anna—ordinary people who are finally, deeply content because they have seen God’s salvation. This sermon explores who Jesus is: the promised Messiah, the Saviour for all nations, the One who divides hearts, and the Redeemer long awaited. Jesus brings comfort and peace to those who receive him, yet becomes a stumbling block to those who reject him. Come and see how true satisfaction is found not in things, but in meeting Christ himself.

This is the sermon from Christmas 2025 where we explored the real hope that the birth of Jesus gives us. Preacher: Michael Calder

In Romans 5:12–21, Paul invites us to “compare the pair”: Adam and Jesus. Through Adam, sin entered the world and death spread to all. Through Jesus, grace overwhelms sin and life is restored. In this sermon from St John’s Wishart, we see humanity’s problem laid bare—dead in sin—and God’s astonishing solution revealed. Jesus comes as the second and greater Adam, whose obedience brings justification, righteousness, and life. Grace does not merely compete with sin; it triumphs completely. 

In this sermon from Hebrews 2:14–18, we explore why Jesus came in the flesh. God the Son became truly human in order to die for us—destroying the power of death, freeing us from slavery to fear, and rescuing us from sin. Far more than a distant saviour, Jesus is our merciful and faithful High Priest who understands our weakness, temptation, and suffering.

In this message from Philippians 2:1–8, we explore the breathtaking truth of the incarnation — that Jesus, who was in every way God, stepped down from heaven’s glory to become truly human. He did not grasp at power or use His divine position for His own advantage. Instead, He humbled Himself, taking on the nature of a servant, even to the point of death on a cross.

This is the first sermon in our series on the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. Passage: John 1; Preacher: Chris Boyce

In this sermon, we explore Isaiah 11 and the stunning promise of the Branch of Jesse—Jesus, the Spirit-filled King who brings justice, restores creation, and unites God’s people. Through vivid images of wolves lying with lambs, children safe with cobras, and nations gathered under one Messiah, Isaiah gives us a breath-taking glimpse of God’s future renewal. We trace how Jesus began this work in His first coming and how He will complete it when He returns. Join us as we unpack God’s faithfulness, the hope of perfect justice, and the joy of living as part of His restored and reunited people.

In this sermon, we explore Isaiah 9:1–7, where out of Israel’s deep darkness and judgment, God promises an amazing light and lasting hope. Isaiah reveals that God will bring peace, freedom, and joy through the coming of a glorious Son — Jesus, the Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

In this sermon, we dive into Isaiah 6 – The Holiness of God. When Isaiah encounters God “high and lifted up,” everything changes — his view of God, his view of himself, and his mission. We’ll explore what it really means for God to be holy, holy, holy and why that matters for us today. 

This Sunday we heard from Bree Mills who spoke on how we as God's people have been Chosen, Sent, and Empowered by the Spirit to proclaim the good news of Jesus!

In Isaiah 3-4 we see how God takes away Israel’s false securities, exposing their rebellion, yet promises life and restoration through the coming Messiah, Jesus. Even when all seems lost, God is still faithful, offering forgiveness and a future in His presence. Join us as we explore how Isaiah points to the beauty and glory of Jesus — the Branch who brings new life, cleansing, and lasting hope for all who trust in Him.

In this series from St John’s Wishart, we dive into the powerful message of Isaiah — a book that holds up a mirror to God’s people and reveals both our rebellion and God’s incredible grace. In Isaiah: Rebellious Children, we explore how God’s holiness exposes our sin, yet His mercy calls us home and offers complete forgiveness through Jesus. Join us each week as we discover the God who still calls His people back.

In this message from St John’s Wishart, we explore Psalm 126 — a song of joy and hope for God’s people. When the Lord restored Israel’s fortunes, they were filled with laughter and praise. Today, we too can rejoice in the great things God has done for us through Jesus, even as we wait for the fullness of His restoration to come. Join us as we reflect on the God who has done and will do great things.

This Sunday we continued our look into the Psalms of Ascent. In Psalm 125, we are reminded that in Christ we have security, stability, and a Lord who judges with integrity.

James closes his letter by urging believers to face trials with patience, prayer, and hope in the Lord’s return. In this sermon, we see how real faith steadies us through suffering, keeps us prayerful in all seasons, and calls us to care for one another as family in Christ.

What does it mean to trust God with our plans and our possessions? In this talk from St John’s Wishart, we explore James 4:13–5:6 and discover the danger of self-sufficiency, the emptiness of hoarded riches, and the call to radical generosity. Real faith surrenders all we are and all we have to our gracious God.

In this sermon from St John’s Wishart, we explore James 4 and what real faith looks like when it is humble. James doesn’t hold back—he shows how pride, selfish desires, and quarrels can tear the church apart and even make us “enemies of God.” But he also points us to the good news: God gives more grace. As we humble ourselves, submit to Him, and draw near, He draws near to us. 

In James 3, we’re reminded that real faith shows itself in both our speech and our wisdom. Our words may be small, but they carry enormous power—to build up or to destroy. James calls us to humility: humble speech that encourages and blesses, and humble wisdom that reflects the character of Christ. Earthly wisdom driven by pride and selfish ambition tears down, but wisdom from above is pure, peaceable, gentle, and full of mercy. In this talk, we explore how following Jesus shapes our words and lives to reflect his gentleness and humility.

James 2:14–26 challenges believers with a simple but confronting truth: faith without works is dead. Scripture teaches that while we are saved by grace through faith alone, genuine faith always results in a changed life. This passage illustrates that action is the natural fruit of faith, and that faith and deeds work together to display a living, active trust in God. Through examples like Abraham and Rahab, we are reminded that real faith is visible, practical, and obedient. Listeners are encouraged to consider how their own lives reflect the faith they profess in Jesus.

This is the fourth sermon in our series in James where we saw that followers of Jesus must not show favouritism.

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? In this message from St John’s Wishart 9AM, we explore James’ call to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger” and to not just hear God’s word but live it out. Real faith is seen in humble obedience, practical care for those in need, and a life shaped by God’s implanted word.

In James 1:9–18, we see that real faith stays steadfast in every situation. Whether rich or poor, James reminds us to boast in our status before God, not in possessions. Earthly riches fade, but those who persevere under trial will receive the crown of life. Temptation comes from our own desires, luring us into sin, which leads to death — but God is the giver of every good and perfect gift, bringing life through the word of truth.  Preacher: Michael Calder

This is the fourth sermon in our series on the Psalms of Ascent. Preacher: Chris Boyce

This is the third sermon in our series on the Psalms of Ascent. Preacher: Chris Boyce

This is the second sermon in our series on the Psalms of Ascent. Preacher: John Arnold

In this sermon from Psalm 121, we reflect on the God who helps, guards, and protects his people. As pilgrims once sang these words on their way to Jerusalem, we’re reminded to lift our eyes not to the hills or to worldly comforts, but to the Lord—the Maker of heaven and earth. In life’s uncertainties, God is always there, always near, and always active in keeping us. Through Jesus, our true help and keeper, we are safe forever.

Words can build up or tear down — and Proverbs 10 shows just how powerful our speech really is. In this sermon, we explore what it means to speak with wisdom, how our words reflect the condition of our hearts, and how we can use our speech to point others to Jesus. Whether it's encouragement, restraint, or truth spoken in love, wise words are of great value and last forever. 

In this message from Proverbs 3:1–20, we explore the wisdom that comes from fearing God and trusting Him with our whole hearts. While the world values wealth, freedom, and self-expression, God's wisdom offers something far greater: life, peace, and purpose. We look at the fruit and value of wisdom, why it's worth pursuing, and how trusting God—even through suffering—leads to true flourishing. Living wisely isn’t always easy, but it is always good.

In this final message of our “Hope25” series, we explore the powerful truth that Christian hope is living, secure, and unfading—because it’s grounded in the resurrection of Jesus. When everything around us feels uncertain, God offers us a hope that doesn’t spoil, fade, or disappoint. This hope isn’t based on our goodness, but on God's mercy and grace. Even in trials, our hope grows stronger, drawing us closer to Jesus. Whether you’re feeling weary, anxious, or just wondering where to turn, this episode reminds us: hope has a name—and his name is Jesus.

In this sermon, we explore the raw reality of death and the powerful hope that Jesus brings in the face of it. From John 11, we see Jesus grieve, get angry, and ultimately raise Lazarus from the dead—showing his authority even over death itself. In a culture that avoids death and hides grief, Jesus offers something radical: honest lament and unshakable hope. Whether you’re facing loss, walking with someone who is, or searching for assurance beyond the grave, this message points us to the One who is the resurrection and the life.