Mark 4:35 to 5:20 - Who is this man?

To listen to Jim Nicholls preaching from Mark 4:35 to 5:20 on Sunday evening 15th December 2013 use the link below: Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Gen 49:8 to 12 - Waiting for Christmas

To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from at Christ Church on Sunday morning 15th December 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

The Secret of Contentment

Paul has learnt a secret. He can enjoy both luxury and poverty and still somehow be contented with that. How does he do it? Where does the strength come from? Does he have inner peace through meditation or is he just a pretty laid back guy? Or is there something more? To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Philippians 4:10 to 20 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 8th December 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 4:21 to 34 - Lamps and Seeds

The true light of the world, Jesus had been concealed but was not about to be revealed and shine out to all men. This light will bring many to be part of the kingdom of God even though it might start small and weal it will be a great thing bringing blessing to the whole world. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Mark 4:21 to 34 on Sunday evening 8th December 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 4:1 to 20 - Sowing and Reaping

Parables both conceal and reveal. To those with open hearts, eager to learn, the parables are stories that reveal spiritual truth. To those with closed hearts they are a secret kept hidden. In the end it's only God who can change hearts but the focus on this first parable (the sower) is on the different responses to the preaching of the gospel. There are variable results when the word is preached but always a crop. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Mark 4:1 to 20 on Sunday evening 1st December 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 22:6 to 23 - A murderous heart

Saul shows how the journey of rejecting God's word ends in evil acts unimaginable at the beginning of the journey. His fear and paranoia reach their ugly summit in the murder of all bit one of the priests. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 21 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 1st December 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 21:1 to 22:5 - A Distressed Heart

David experiences rejection but God assures him of his presence, his power and that he is building a people with him as their leader. Jesus the greater Son of David perfects that faith and trust shown by David and triumphs at every point and is saved and brings salvation to others through suffering. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 21 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 24th November 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

TalkBack: Making Disciples

Jesus calls on the church to "make disciples and teach them to obey". One writer has said every church has two questions to answer about this - do we have a plan for making disciples and how is that plan working. In our TalkBack session we will think about some values that we have recently thought about as elders but also talk about how with God's help we work this out in the church family. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy Also, the link below has the handouts from the evening Making disciples Nov 2013

Mark 3:7 to 35 - New Family

Jesus is calling out a new Israel and a new family. He is not under our control but we submit to his. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Mark 3:7-3:6 on Sunday evening 17th November 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 20:1 to 42 - United Hearts

In the committed friendship between Jonathan and David we learn something about friendship but a lot about the character of God's loving covenant. God makes a Covenant showing unfailing kindness. We deserve wrath, he shows mercy. He seals the Covenant with the sacrifice of Christ.

The outcome is peace and eternal friendship. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 20 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 17th November 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 2:23 to 3:6 - Look what they are doing

Jesus is here as Lord of the Sabbath. He can interpret the law and he fulfils it. He offers rest and restoration. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Mark 2:23-3:6 on Sunday evening 10th November 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Jesus - friend of sinners

To listen to Mark Ventham speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 10th November 2013 use the link below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 18:1 to 19:24 - An insecure heart

David comes into King Saul’s Court but it the most dangerous place he has ever been. However the Lord is with him and that makes all the difference and all Saul's plans to get rid of him are thwarted. Instead Saul's son, his daughter and his people all see David as the true anointed one. How are you responding to God's anointed king, Jesus? Are you rejecting him like Saul? Will you accept him as the rightful king in your place and pledge your allegiance to him? To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 18 and 19 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 3rd November 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

TalkBack: Explaining the reasonableness of faith

God uses reason and revelation to show us himself. We certainly can't convince anyone of the truth but we can explain the reasonableness of believing in a transcendent God and the resurrection of Christ. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy Click here to download a copy of the slides used

1 Samuel 17:1 to 58 - a confident heart

David as such a concern for the name of God that is being defied by the giant Goliath and an unshakeable confidence that the Lord will deliver - not by spear or sword because the battle belongs to the Lord. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 17 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 27th October 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 2:13 to 22 - Feasting and Fasting

Jesus is here for the outcasts. For those that the religious people look down on. And because he's here for them it's a time for feasting not fasting. The kingdom of God is breaking in. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Mark 2:13-22 on Sunday evening 20th October 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 16:1 to 23 - Looking on the heart

God tells Samuel to anoint a new king. A king provided by God. Not the people's choice this time, but God's. A man with the right heart and a man who has God with him, whilst Saul clearly does not. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 16 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 20th October 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 2:1 to 12 - Which is easier?

There's a crowded house in Capernaum with Jesus preaching and some men of faith bring their friend to Jesus. From this story we learn that forgiveness of sins is our greatest need, that Jesus has the authority to forgive sins so we need to bring our friends to Jesus and pray for a change of heart. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Mark 2:1-12 on Sunday evening 13th October 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

John 8:36 - We are made for God like fish are made to swim

We are only completely happy and secure when we are in relationship with God. Anywhere else is unnatural and unsustainable. To listen to Mark Ventham speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 13th October 2013 use the link below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 1:21 to 45 - Everyone is looking for you

Speaking with authority, healing with power, showing compassion for the outsiders and the broken. Who is this man? To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Mark 1 on Sunday evening 5th October September 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 15:1 to 35 - Rejecting the Chosen

God tells Saul to totally destroy the Amalekites whose wickedness had not gone unnoticed. Saul chooses a flexible approach to obedience which God calls disobedience. How bad is it to reject the voice of God? To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 15 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 6th October 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy There is also a very helpful article in the briefing which give some further explanation about the Amalekites. Click here (opens in new window)

Mark 1:14 to 20 - Follow me

Jesus proclaims the good news into a dark and desperate world and he calls people to follow him and to be those who call others to follow him too. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Mark 1 in Sunday evening 15th September 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 14:24 to 52 Sad Success

In contrast to his son Jonathan, Saul demonstrates fear and the desire to control others and deflect the blame. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 14 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 22nd September 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 10: Jesus Welcomes Children

Jesus welcomes children to his kingdom and calls us to welcome them too. To listen to Graham Nicholls speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 15th September 2013 as part of the celebration of 40 Years of Mayflower Playgroup use the link below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Mark 1:1 to 13 - Introducing Jesus Christ

The beginning of the greatest story ever told - the story of Jesus Christ the Son of God. Mark writes his headline and brings forward his evidence - the three witnesses The OT Prophets, John the Baptist, and God the Father. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Mark 1 in Sunday evening 8th September 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 13:23 to 14:23 - The Lord’s rescue

Jonathan and his armour bearer show their faith that God can save by many or by few. Are you with us, heart and soul as we go out with the gospel? To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 13 and 14 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 8th September 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Luke 14:12 to 24 - A meal where all are welcome

Jesus cuts through all cultural barriers. He calls us to a radical lifestyle of welcming others into our lives and shows us that the gospel is going out into the world for all to be invited to the great banquet.

In the fourth of four sermons describing meals with Jesus we look at the parable of the great banquet.

To listen to Colin Strudwick preaching from Luke 14 on Sunday evening 1st September 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 13:1 to 22 - Tarnish on the crown

Saul's reign starts to unravel. Not because he loses political control but rather that he loses his trust in God and keeping His law.

To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 8 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 1st September 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Luke 9:10 to 17 - A meal that satisfies

Is Jesus enough for you? Does he provide all that you need and are you satisfied with that?

In the third of four sermons describing meals with Jesus we look at the feeding of 5,000 men plus women and children in a miraculous way by Jesus.

To listen to Simon Hateley preaching from Luke 9 on Sunday evening 25th August 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 12:1 to 25 - Samuel’s farewell

Samuel, as he effectively lets go the reins of power, makes a moving farewell speech, so full of instruction for us.

To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 12 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 25th August 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Luke 7:36 to 50 - A meal for the grateful

How do people who have been forgiven by God respond?

In the second of four sermons describing meals with Jesus we look at the woman who washes his feet using expensive perfume as an expression of her worship.

To listen to Steve Mills preaching from Luke 7 on Sunday evening 18th August 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 11:1 to 15 - A Hopeful Beginning

Saul as the newly crowned king rescues the city of Jabesh and establishes himself as king.

To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 11 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 18th August 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 9:1 to 10:27 - The King anointed

These chapters introduce us to Saul, who on the face of it, is just the sort of king that the people are asking for: he is from a noble family and he is tall - a real advantage if you're going to lead them in battle.

To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 9 and 10 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 11th August 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 8:1 to 22 - the king thing

The ageing Samuel is making some bad decisions about his sons but the people are restless for a king for their future security. They don't ask God about it, they just demand it and refuse to listen to the warnings.

To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 8 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 4th August 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Luke 5:27 to 32 - A meal for the hungry

Who is that Jesus came to save, and are we on the same mission that he is?

In the first of four sermons describing meals with Jesus we look at the banquet given by Matthew and see what reaction it provokes.

To listen to Simon Howard preaching from Luke 5 on Sunday evening 4th August 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Hope: Is heaven worth it?

To listen to Nick McQuaker leading the fourth and final session of our TalkBack series "Jesus is coming back" on Sunday evening 28th July 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy Click here for a copy of the Power Point Slides

1 Samuel 7:2 to 17 - The Lord is merciful

The whole nation seek the Lord - it's a kind of revival. What does that look like and what can we learn?

To listen to Les White preaching from 1 Samuel 7 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 28th July 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 5: to 7:1 - God is not contained or constrained

The ark, captured by the Philistines is taken to Ashdod and the temple of their idol Dagon. God shows his real powers as Dagon forced into a position of worship, the Philistines are judged and humiliated because there is only one true God.

To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 5 and 6 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 21st July 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ruth 4 - the kinsman redeemer

Ruth has found a possible kinsman redeemer and in the redemption and subsequent marriage there is more than just a marriage and a baby, there is a kingly line.

To listen to Tom Warburton from Ruth Chapter 4 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 21st July 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

God is Sovereign

God is not like us - He is sovereign. To listen to Mark Ventham speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 14th July 2013 use the link below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ruth 3 - Spread you garment over me

Ruth has found a field owned by a man who shows her kindness. But that's not the end of the story. I in bold and unusual way Ruth is instructed to ask Boaz to permanently look after her and give her rest.

To listen to Ben Nicholls preaching from Ruth Chapter 3 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 14th July 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ruth 2 - A sovereign hand in the fields

Two women show their faith even in the darkest times and God shows his faithfulness and lovingkindness through Boaz providing for them.

To listen to Daniel Woodfield preaching from Ruth Chapter 2 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 7th July 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 4:1 to 22 - Glory Departs

In this chapter God's people Israel were defeated twice even with the symbol of God's presence the ark of the covenant being with them for the second battle. In this we saw the foolishness of God's people, the faithfulness of God's Judgement and the flight of God's Presence and glory which although terrible had gracious purposes.


To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel 4 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 7th July 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ruth 1 - Work behind the scenes

As we learnt from 1 Samuel this morning, God is still working, even in the darkest times. A few years before Samuel, in the times of the Judges, this remarkable story of a young woman committing herself to God's people begins. Ruth, constantly referred to as a Moabite, joins the Israelites and becomes part of God's big story.

To listen to Nathan Severs preaching from Ruth Chapter 1 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 30th June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 3:1 to 4:1 - Speak Lord

Speak LORD, for your servant is listening It was a dark time but God graciously starts to speak to the willing listener Samuel who becomes a prophet in Israel empowered by God. We need to be eager listeners, receptive to God speaking to us. We hear from God in the Bible but especially through the willing servant and faithful prophet Jesus. We have a prophetic ministry – bringing God’s word to others – faithfully, boldly, in the power of the Holy Spirit.

To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel 3 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 30th June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

When the books are opened - the final judgement

To listen to Nick McQuaker leading the third session of our TalkBack series "Jesus is coming back" on Sunday evening 23rd June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Turn to me and be saved (Verse of Year)

The unique God of the universe is appealing to us to listen and challenging us to speak. In thinking again about our verse of the year for 2013, we looked at the heart of the appeal from this God to turn aside from whatever we had been following as our God and as our salvation. God would raise up a Messiah Cyrus to save the Jews from exile. He has sent a Messiah Jesus to save anyone who turns idols and puts their trust in him.


To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Isaiah 45:22 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 23rd June 2013 use the link below. (Uses Flash Audio Player) Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 48:1 to 35 - The Future Perfect

What do you look forward to as your inheritance? Are you hoping for something valuable from an ageing relative, or a generous pension? As Christians our real inheritance is the Promised Land, not Israel but the new heavens and new earth, living together in harmony with the people of God in equality, with an open invitiation to all; working together in the service of God and perfected in the presence of God To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Ezekiel chapter 48 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 16th June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 2:12 to 36 - Judgement begins at the House of God

In contrast to the young boy Samuel, faithfully worshipping in the temple, the sons of the high priest Eli, profane the name of God. God will judge them, but at the same time he is going to preserve his people by raising up a faithful priesthood and a great prophet.



To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from 1 Samuel at Christ Church on Sunday morning 16th June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 47:1 to 12 - The Future glorious

In the vision Ezekiel sees a people sheltered and protected by the presence of God. It's the church now in one sense but this takes us to the glorious future hope of the new heavens and the new earth. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 47 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 9th June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

God is wise

God is Wise – he knows everything and he always acts in the best way to achieve the best outcomes. We see it in creation, in Jesus, and in the gospel. We need to see God’s wisdom and learn from it. To listen to Graham Nicholls speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 9th June 2013 use the link below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

1 Samuel 1:1 to 2:11 - A Happy Birthday

Hannah, in her great disappointment that she has no children prays with great emotion to her powerful God, the LORD Almighty for a son to serve the LORD. God grants her request and she fulfils her vow and Hannah joyfully praises Him. This teaches is timeless lessons about how to pray, what to pray for and how to respond when God graciously answers us.
To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from 1 Samuel at Christ Church on Sunday morning 2nd June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 40:1 to 46:24 - The future hope

God has great plans for his people. To listen to Robert Fernandez preaching from Ezekiel chapters 40 through to 46 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 2nd June 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Like a thief in the night - How and when will Jesus return?

To listen to Nick McQuaker leading the second session of our TalkBack series "Jesus is coming back" on Sunday evening 26th May 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 4:7 to 18 Faithful Fellows

Paul closes his letter the the Colossians with warm greetings to the Christians there. He shows that his close relationship with all kinds of individuals and churches for the sake of the gospel. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Colossians at Christ Church on Sunday morning 26th May 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 39:1 to 29 - Evil Defeated

Just like the people then we need to realise that God's people are always under attack but that God's enemies will be defeated and God's people secure in his presence and recognising his glorious holiness To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Ezekiel chapter 39 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 19th May 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 4:2 to 6 - Praying with One Eye Open

We talk to God about people and then we talk to people about God. We pray for open doors - open hearts, opportunities: places times and spaces we can speak the gospel message into and in a context where all our speaking needs to be full of grace we make the most of every opportunity. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Colossians at Christ Church on Sunday morning 19th May 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy Mark also launched Uncover 3-2-1. Click here for more information He also played this video clip which is on our website here

Ezekiel 37:1 to 28 - Dead Bones Live

God was going to do a great miracle of resurrection through the preaching of Ezekiel. He is doing a great miracle through the preaching of the gospel and the power of the Spirit. To listen to Peter Jolly preaching from Ezekiel chapter 37 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 12th May 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

God is good

God is not like us - He is perfectly good in who he is and what he does. He defines goodness. He made a good world and in his goodness he brought about a wonderful salvation. To listen to Graham Nicholls speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 12th May 2013 use the link below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy Below is a more detailed summary and some discussion questions

Ezekiel 36:16 to 38 - A new heart and a new spirit

Although God's people were being judged, for the sake of his name, God was going to restore them and give them new life so that all the nations would know he really is the Lord. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 34 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 5th May 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy[/slide]

Colossians 3:18 to 4:1 - Marriage, Home, Work

Setting our affections on things above directly connects with everyday life here below. The message that transcends culture, transforms culture. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Colossians 3:18 to 4:1 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 5th May 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 3:12 to 17 - New Clothes

God’s people have a whole new set of clothes to wear - which really are the virtues of Christ. They have a whole new governing principle - the peace that comes through the work of Christ. They have a speaking the word of God at the centre of their worship and they do everything to honour Christ. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Colossians 3:12 to 17 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 28th April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 34:1 to 31 - The Shepherd and His Sheep

Israel's leaders had been useless - leading the people badly and serving only themselves. God would remove them, but he would not abandon his people. He would provide a shepherd for them who would lead them and care for them. This shepherd would be a just ruler, like king David, but so much better. The New Testament shows us Jesus, the ultimate Good Shepherd. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 34 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 28th April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Your kingdom come – when and how will this prayer be answered

To listen to Nick McQuaker leading the first session of our TalkBack series "Jesus is coming back" on Sunday evening 21st April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 3:1 to 11 - A Whole New You

In Christ we have a whole new way of thinking (1-4). As Christ died, so we die to our old way life: our affections are being transformed. In the present we know security because Jesus pleads our case and has all authority. In the future we know Jesus is coming back and we will be with him and like him. This gives us a whole new way of living (5-8). As Jesus died we need to get rid of old habits, instincts and desires that belong to the old way of life. We used to walk that way but our lives are being transformed. It starts with the heart's desires: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires; greed. Sexual sin is a barometer of how self-obsessed we can become. The second list more is focussed on actions in relation to others: anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language, lying In Christ we died to our old way of life and guilt but still we're still work in progress, putting things to death. And we have a whole new identity (9b-11). We are taking off the old self and putting on the new self and this is progressive. Because of my new identity the differences no longer define us – they used to matter to me but our judgments are being transformed. Religious, cultural, class distinctions no longer define how we view ourselves or other Christians. Christ is all and in all. So we need to put off any judgmental discrimination in the church and between churches and be contented with who we are because Christ is living in us and he is everything to us. 1. What’s the difference between living by rules and being transformed by our connection to Christ? 2. What does it mean to you to set your minds on things above? 3. How do you put to death the old way of life? What do you find especially difficult about this? 4. What does Paul mean when he says there is no Gentile or Jew etc. How does this affect us personally and in the church? To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Colossians 3:1 to 11 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 21st April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 33:1 to 20 - The Watchman

Ezekiel is to be a faithful watchman – that’s his responsibility. The people needed to respond to the warning. That was their responsibility. We need to repent or self-righteousness and self-loathing and become the watchmen for our friends and family and neighbours. To listen to John Fernandez preaching from Ezekiel chapter 33 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 14th April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 2:16 to 23 Reality not religion

Don't be judged by your religiousness (16,17) in their case, Jewish religious festivals which ignored or excluded the reality of Christ and his work on the Cross Don’t Let Anyone Count You Out (18,19): Paul says don't let anyone disqualify you because of your seemingly inferior religious experience. Christ is the source of real spiritual experience and real spiritual life and growth happens together in the body (the Church) Don’t Fall in the Trap of Just Keeping Rules (20-23): Our Way of life does matter but it's now how we get saved. Any rules must flow from Christ his word and must be motivated by love To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Colossians 2:16 to 23 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 14th April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 31:1 to 18 - A Prophecy to Egypt

Egypt was the British Empire of that time. A fading superpower. They needed to realise that like all empires, whether Egypt or Assyria or Babylon, they may be glorious trees at one point and even seem to rival the power of God, but their beauty will fade and they will judged by God for how they have served him. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 31 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 7th April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 2:6 to 15 - Antidote to Error

Paul wants to protect the young Christians at Colossae from being taken captive by false teaching. The false teachers probably offered spiritual fullness and freedom. Paul teaches the Colossians that in Christ they already have all the spiritual fullness that it is possible to have in this life. He teaches that when we became Christians, we were given a new identity, purified and brought into God’s family, raised from the dead, set free from accusation and set free from the forces of evil. So we need to understand these realities and keep connected to Christ and walking in him. To listen to Nick McQuaker preaching from Colossians 2:6 to 15 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 7th April 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Easter Sunday 2013 - Mark 16:1 to 8

To listen to Mark Ventham on Easter Sunday morning 31st March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

TalkBack: What to do with your money

Whether you reckon you have got too much, too little or just enough, how do you use your money - for yourselves, for others and for the church? What should be your priorities, and how much really is enough? To listen to Graham Nicholls leading the TalkBack session on Sunday evening 24th March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Gospel Primer Week 4 - Crucified Daily

Don't waste your life! How do we do that: by living for myself. How do we live productive and ultimately successful lives where we find ourselves. By dying to self following the example of Christ. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching about the dying to myself each day on Sunday morning 24th March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 28:1 to 26 - You say "I am a god"

Pride of man, pride of nations, pride of the devil himself. All will see that the Lord is God and he is with his people. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 28 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 17th March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Gospel Primer Week 3 - Shaped by the Cross

We are to live as Christians with open, humble hearts, knowing the gospel will keep me humble as I realise I am a sinner loved despite my failure not because of my success. Openness is a great way of expressing the gospel reality that our sins were laid bare at the Cross. We need an appropriate level of openness about our sin, struggles and needs. We are compelled by the love of Christ. It’s our motivation and model for evangelism. We love others most by telling them the gospel and living each day for Jesus. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching about the sufficiency of the gospel at Christ Church on Sunday morning 17th March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 24:1 to 27 - The sign of death

Sometimes we need to be reminded that God's justice is something to be glad about. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 24 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 10th March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Gospel Primer Week 2 - My Inheritance in the Saints

The grace of God gives me an inheritance with the saints. How much do I value my new home and how much do I value my new family? To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching about the inheritance in the saints at Christ Church on Sunday morning 10th March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Gospel Primer Week 1 - Sufficiency in the Gospel

The gospel is sufficient to deal with our past and prepare us for the future. But it is also powerful in the present. The gospel shapes how we live, how we respond to all that happens to us. The challenge is whether we believe the gospel really is sufficient for us right now. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching about the sufficiency of the gospel at Christ Church on Sunday morning 3rd March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 18 - God's not fair!

Sometimes we accuse God or blame other people for our circumstance or behaviour. That's what the generation of Jews who had been partly exiled were saying. Through Ezekiel, the Lord shows that he is completely just in his judgements but also merciful. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Ezekiel chapter 18 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 3rd March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Gospel Primer Week 1 - Sufficiency in the Gospel

The gospel is sufficient to deal with our past and prepare us for the future. But it is also powerful in the present. The gospel shapes how we live, how we respond to all that happens to us. The challenge is whether we believe the gospel really is sufficient for us right now. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching about the sufficiency of the gospel at Christ Church on Sunday morning 4th March 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

TalkBack: Identity

Who am I? Do I see myself purely in terms of what I do, or how I compare with others? How can we be secure without the things that most people in the world need to define them? The issue of identity is relevant to all ages and stages in life. Understanding this from a Christian perspective will help us at the peak of our working potential, facing retirement, feeling useless or feeling needed. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy Here is the link to the presentation used (opens in new window) Please do add your comments and questions

Colossians 2:1 to 5 - United in Love

Paul's committed to working hard in ministry for all the churches he has connections with. He wants the church he serves to be encouraged in heart, united in love, and in the full riches of understanding of knowing Christ. He's encouraged with their progress and how firm their faith in Christ is. To listen to Colin Strudwick preaching from Colossians 2:1 to 5 23 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 24th February 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 16 - an unfaithful city

Sometimes we need shocking pictures to help us realise the seriousness of sin and the wonder of grace. Ezekiel 16 paints the picture of rescue rebellion, retribution and restoration using the analogy of an unfaithful wife. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 16 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 17th February 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 1:24 to 29 - A mystery now revealed

Paul rejoices to serve the body of Christ as he serves Christ even though this involves great suffering. In this he identifies with the sufferings of Christ. The goal of his service and suffering is to tell many people about Jesus, about the mystery now revealed - that through the gospel, Christ now lives in them by the Holy Spirit. So Paul works with the energy of Christ. We need a clear view on the gospel – a revelation leading to a personal relationship with God through Christ. We need to work hard at telling the gospel – to ourselves and the world. And we need to realise being a servant of Christ always involves some suffering. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 10 & 11 - The Glory Departs but Hope Remains

The vision of the glory and power of God that has been there throughout the visions and words Ezekiel has been given. In these chapters it moves back to centre stage but in a shocking spectacle, the visible presence of God leaves Jerusalem as God rains down judgement. Is there hope for the exiles? To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Ezekiel chapters 10 and 11 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 10th February 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

God is not limited in time or space

God is not like us - He has always been there and lives forever and his timeless presence is everywhere, equally. He sees all time vividly and he is present everywhere powerfully. To listen to Mark Ventham speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 10th February 2013 use the link below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 8 & 9 - Justice Outpoured

Ezekiel sees a vision of what's going on in Jerusalem and what he sees is appalling: He sees God's idolatrous people even at the centre of worship of the true Lord. We can be unfaithful in the same way and just as foolish. As a consequence, God's judgement is swift and severe. He does judge us, the church to discipline and refine us.

To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 8 and 9 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 3rd February 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 1:15 to 23 - Reconciling all things

Christ is supreme in his person - He is truly God and deserves our praise. He is over all creation - it was made by him and for him. He is also head of the church the people he reconciled to God by his atoning death and victorious resurrection. Is He enough for you?

To listen to Dan Woodfield preaching from Colossians chapter 1:15 to 23 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 3rd February 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 1:9 to 14 - Knowing How to Live

Paul is very thankful for the Colossian Christians, but knows, that as for all of us, they still needed to keep on growing in their knowledge and behaviour. So he prays that they might know and do what pleases the Lord Jesus Christ, and continue to be joyful and thankful.
To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Colossians chapter 1:9 to 14 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 20th January 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 4 and 5 - Acted out Judgement

In these chapters, Ezekiel is asked to act out in a very graphic way the inevitable judgement on Jerusalem. God's judgement is a serious thing but even in these distressing predictions there are hints of mercy... To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 4 and 5 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 20th January 2013 use the link below. [audio: Ezekiel/Ezekiel4v1to5v17_MV.mp3] (Using Flash Audio Player) Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Colossians 1:1 to 8 – The gospel of hope

Paul is in prison, probably in Rome and he writes to a church in Colossae that had been founded by the Epaphras as he told them the good news about Jesus Christ. In these first 8 verses Paul introduces himself and his letter to the Colossians and explains how thankful he is for their faith, love and hope.
To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Colossians chapter 1:1 to 8 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 20th January 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 2:1 to 3:15 – Speak my Words

Ezekiel is empowered by the Spirit of God to speak the word of God. However it was going to be a discouraging time, with limited success in terms of the immediate hearers. This was overwhelming to him. He needed to know the great confidence that God is still on the throne and to still delight in God and his word. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Ezekiel chapter 2:1 to 3:15 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 13th January 2013 use the link below. Please note that the sound quality is poor only for the first two minutes and then it reverts to 'normal.' Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

God is not like us - He does not need anyone or anything else

At our All Age service we looked at our 2013 verse of the year and also introduced a new series of children's talks looking at what God is like. To listen to Graham Nicholls speaking at our All-Age Service at Christ Church on Sunday morning 13th January 2013 use the links below. Or click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ezekiel 1 - A vision of God

Chapter 1 provides the backdrop to the rest of the book and indeed to the whole of history. God is on the throne, working His plans. He knows all things and is everywhere. We need to see him, but we also need to hear from him. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from Ezekiel chapter 1 at Christ Church on Sunday evening 6th January 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Nehemiah 13 - Creeping Compromise

As we come to the end of this book it’s not a happy ever after story. Nehemiah returns to the Persian capital and whilst he’s away the people compromise in the way they are supporting the temple, the Sabbath and intermarriage. This is a warning to us, that we can easily drift into compromise that affects our worship our love and witness and our families. To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Nehemiah chapter 13 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 6th January 2013 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Nehemiah 9 to 12 - Corporate Confession

To listen to Robert Fernandez preaching from Nehemiah chapters 9 through 12 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 30th December 2012 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Christmas Day 2012

To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from at Christ Church on Christmas Day 25th December 2012 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Luke 1:32,33 - He will be great

The story of the the birth life, death and resurrection of Jesus is a great story not so much because of the drama but because it's both true and relevant. Jesus is the greatest person who ever lived, who offers us the greatest present, and invites us to the greatest party there will ever be. To listen to Graham Nicholls preaching from at Christ Church on Sunday morning 23rd December 2012 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Nativity 2012

To listen to Mark Ventham's talk at the Nativity talk at Christ Church on Sunday morning 23rd December 2012 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Ruth 4:13-22

The book of Ruth demonstrates God's sovereign gracious intervention. Even in judgement he is working amazing purposes to reach out to a pagan woman, bringing her into the people of God, and through her descendants to bless us by the coming of the Saviour. To listen to Ludgero Neto preaching from Ruth 4:13-22 Christ Church on Sunday evening 16th December 2012 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy

Nehemiah 8 - The joy of the Lord is your strength

The people are settled in the land. As they gather they demonstrate a genuine hunger for God’s word (which reveals their hunger for God). This leads to joy in the Lord and glad obedience. How do you feel about God's word? To listen to Mark Ventham preaching from Nehemiah chapter 8 at Christ Church on Sunday morning 16th December 2012 use the link below. Click here to listen in your own player or save a copy