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Servant Leadership
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What do you most admire in a leader? There are many answers to this. Some might say they admire clear thinking and straight talking, others competency, whilst others look for character. What was Jesus' model of leadership? He has certainly has authority and power. He teaches in a way that inspires some and turns others away. He acts in a way that both provokes and heals. That said, the standout attribute of Jesus the leader is his position of servanthood. What does it mean to follow Jesus the servant leader? Let's explore this by looking at Mark 10:32-45 and the request of James and John, who needed to learn a lesson from Jesus about what it means to lead. It is a lesson that applies to every follower of Jesus.
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417 episodes
Manage episode 473515512 series 2407780
Content provided by Shirley Baptist Church. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Shirley Baptist Church or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
What do you most admire in a leader? There are many answers to this. Some might say they admire clear thinking and straight talking, others competency, whilst others look for character. What was Jesus' model of leadership? He has certainly has authority and power. He teaches in a way that inspires some and turns others away. He acts in a way that both provokes and heals. That said, the standout attribute of Jesus the leader is his position of servanthood. What does it mean to follow Jesus the servant leader? Let's explore this by looking at Mark 10:32-45 and the request of James and John, who needed to learn a lesson from Jesus about what it means to lead. It is a lesson that applies to every follower of Jesus.
…
continue reading
417 episodes
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×Wherever we are and wherever we go, God is present and at work. Everyone is made in God’s image and that is a beautiful thing. The truth is, however, that although each of us is gloriously made by God, we are tragically fallen too. So, how do we model God’s character when we are imperfect and fallen? The answer to this is to live a life by the Holy Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS and SELF-CONTOL. Our frontline everyday life is to be characterised by these fruits. Not one or two, but all of them. This is a challenge, not just inside the church walls but outside them too!…
We are so excited to start our series on Growing on the Frontline. Join us as we explore 'The Big Picture' — the reality that we, as Christians, walk in every day.
What does it mean to welcome someone who is 'not one of us'? This question is at the heart of Paul's most personal letter to Philemon, his family and the church in Colosse. He writes, '... so if you consider me your partner, welcome him (Onesimus the slave) as you would welcome me'. It is clear what Paul is saying and asking of the church. You should expand your welcome beyond your imagination. Paul aligns Onesimus, the runaway slave who has stolen and wronged Philemon, with himself. You couldn’t get two more different people, yet Paul says to Philemon and the whole church, treat us the same. What is going on here? Every church wants to be welcoming until, perhaps, it becomes too uncomfortable. Welcome was never meant to be an easy characteristic of church life. Welcome is costly, it is challenging, it disturbs and for some, it is plain frightening. But welcome is also at the heart of the gospel because welcome says you belong, and to belong is the invitation of Jesus to all. Now that is good news!…
In the second talk in our mini-series on Paul's letter to Philemon, we piece together the puzzle of how Paul walks the talk of relational leadership in this deceptively graceful letter. And we ask ourselves the question, 'So what?'. So what if Paul, two thousand years ago, facilitated the reconciliation of the former slave, Onesimus, and his former master, Philemon? How does that speak to us today as followers of Jesus Christ? What does it mean for how we treat each other today as brothers and sisters in Christ? The clue to these questions lies in realising one shocking truth - we are all Onesimus! We are all Onesimus. We are all runaway slaves and we all need a second chance!…
Question – Are you willing to do a bit of preparation before you listen to this sermon? The mission, should you choose to accept it, is to read the letter of Philemon. It’s the shortest letter written by the apostle Paul - only 25 verses long - and comes just before Hebrews towards the end of the New Testament. The heart of the letter is about the health of the heart. It involves human relationships, gospel transformation, inspiring challenge and change in action and attitudes, and about living in such a way that honours Jesus by refreshing the lives of others. Wow, so much packed into such a short letter. Go on, give it a read. It’ll both warm and soften your heart, which is never a bad thing!…
Holy Week is that moment in the year when we pause to remember that “Christmas is important but Easter is decisive”* Why? Well, because Jesus showed us the full extent of his love on the cross. How He forgave us and set us free to experience the fullness of life. How He rose from the dead and so offered hope for the world. A lot happens in Holy Week. It is decisive. Have you made a decision to follow Him? *Apparently quoted by the former Arsenal Football manager Arsene Wenger regarding winning the English Football Premier League, but hey, it's a good line for the Christian faith too!…
The apostle Paul sometimes gets so carried away by what he is trying to communicate that his whole style and tone of writing changes. In Philippians 2 he launches into a beautiful poetic hymn of praise as he reflects on the servant heart of Jesus. As we conclude our mini-series on servant leadership, we share Paul's wonder and see how he encourages the Philippian church to show humility in the pursuit of unity.…
'Jesus loved them to the end'. This is one of those phrases in the Bible that stops you in your tracks. What does it mean for Jesus to love them to the end? As we explore the second topic on Servant Leadership, our focus will be on when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples - a symbolic act that displays ‘loving them to the end’. Jesus knows who he is. He knows why he has come into the world. He knows what is about to happen to him on the cross, and the foot washing is an act of selfless, sacrificial, servant love. Wow! It is sometimes hard for us to receive such love. We may be resistant, or feel unworthy or uncomfortable at being served. It is humbling to receive such love. Leadership is about learning to answer the question that Jesus asks 'Do you understand what I have done for you?' As we learn to answer, we are invited to follow and also wash the feet of others - meaning to love as Jesus loves. 'It is when we love one another, that the world might believe' (John 13:34-35).…
What do you most admire in a leader? There are many answers to this. Some might say they admire clear thinking and straight talking, others competency, whilst others look for character. What was Jesus' model of leadership? He has certainly has authority and power. He teaches in a way that inspires some and turns others away. He acts in a way that both provokes and heals. That said, the standout attribute of Jesus the leader is his position of servanthood. What does it mean to follow Jesus the servant leader? Let's explore this by looking at Mark 10:32-45 and the request of James and John, who needed to learn a lesson from Jesus about what it means to lead. It is a lesson that applies to every follower of Jesus.…
As we continue through Luke’s gospel, we are looking at and thinking about how Jesus does and says new things, transforming lives and breaking new ground; and how he is drawing us all to doing the right thing over and above doing things right! The question is, are we willing to break out beyond what is right and proper and known into the unknown life-giving way that Jesus offers?…
It's clear from Luke's gospel account that Jesus is making quite an impression as he spreads his message across Judea. People are amazed at his teaching, astonished by his miracles. Some are attracted, others affronted - but what is it that he offers? What is the 'new thing' at the core of his message? Well, something so new that he says it will burst the old wineskins. Powerful stuff!…
In Luke 5:1-12 Jesus invites fishermen to drop their nets and catch more fish than they can imagine, and then He says '...from now on you will fish for people.' But what does fishing for people mean? It is what some people call evangelism. But evangelism, like fishing, is not everyone's cup of tea. For many people it is a word with negative connotations. So, is there a different way to view evangelism? Perhaps as something relevant to everyone, because it is a way of life and not simply an activity that you turn on and off like a tap?…
Jesus’ actions and words cause people to stand up in amazement. When was the last time you were shocked into belief? When did your faith in Jesus cause you to be amazed and surprised? In Luke chapter 4 we see a day in the life of Jesus. He encounters evil, speaks sternly against the powers of darkness, heals lots of people and then demons shout at him and he rebukes them. It is exciting, terrifying and life changing stuff. The question is, how do we follow a Saviour with such authority? What might it mean for us to spread the word of his salvation?…
Jesus read the scriptures and delivered a sermon in his home synagogue in Nazareth. By this time he had already been on a preaching tour of Galilee and had established a reputation as an exciting new preacher and healer. His local community were bound to be eager to hear him and so the synagogue is likely to have been full. Surely Jesus could expect a warm and enthusiastic welcome...but no! Rather, what he said caused such offence that he was run out of town and nearly killed. Why? What can he have said that caused such fury?…
Social media, exams, peer pressure. In this world crammed full of external voices, how do our young people connect with the church and God? During His time in the wilderness, Jesus was also subject to external voices. What can we learn from this, particularly how it relates to our young people and dealing with the pressures they are under?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

God is always at work. So along with giving thanks for His faithfulness for things He has done for us in the past, it is also important to consider the new things He is doing. What new things is God revealing to you? How do you perceive the actions of God around you? Discover afresh the work of the Holy Spirit and look forward with an openness towards God's mighty, saving works. Works that bring about the possible where things may appear impossible.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

You never hear much about Jesus’s life as a teenager, and there is good reason. It isn’t mentioned much in the Bible. But in Luke’s gospel chapter 2, we glimpse those teenage years. He went AWOL when his parents lost him in the big city of Jerusalem. Joseph and Mary searched for him, and it was a moment of great anxiety and tension. Jesus was eventually found, and we read he grew in character and reputation. What were your teenage years (or are) like? How might your life might relate to the teenage years of Jesus?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Who were you, crazy Anna? All that time that you waited, fasted and prayed in the temple. All day and all night. Waiting to see salvation. Who were you, crazy Anna? One of Luke’s lowly, marginalised outcasts. Shunned by all the wealthy and important people. Dismissed as a rambling widow who had strange visions. And yet you knew who was coming, didn’t you, Anna? And you got to see the face of salvation. After all that faithful waiting, you met the baby Jesus. And you knew. You knew! You weren’t crazy at all. So what can we learn from Anna to help us see the face of salvation?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Simeon - someone moved by the Spirit. And what a huge blessing he had as a result! As we delve into this passage, it becomes clear that the question we must ask ourselves is whether we recognise when the Holy Spirit is working in our lives. What do we potentially miss if we are not open to the work of the Holy Spirit each day?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What’s going to be the No.1 song this Christmas? Or, what has Spotify wrapped up for you? Music and Christmas go hand in hand. We love to sing at this time of year. The Christmas story in Luke’s gospel has two famous songs - the first by Jesus’ mother Mary and the second by Zechariah, the Father of John the Baptist. Zechariah sang his heart out. He was filled with the Spirit and praised God. What makes you sing out loud? For Zechariah, there were some amazing things! It was the plan of God to save and rescue the world. It was the miracle of the birth of his son, John, who was to prepare the way for Jesus’ arrival. It was the forgiveness of God, the tender mercy of God, the light of God and the peace that only God can bring. Wow! What brilliant lyrics! Come and join in the song of celebration this Christmas. Jesus saves!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Sometimes, we are so familiar with stories in the bible that we can skim over them and miss important truths. Gabriel’s visit to Mary to tell her she will give birth to a baby boy is one of those. But when we spend a little bit of time looking into the story, we can see that this birth was the coming to fruition of many prophecies in the Old Testament that refer to Jesus’s time on earth as a servant king and also looking forward to His second coming - when 'Seeing Salvation' will be revealed in all its glorious fullness.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

We begin Advent focussing on the opening of Luke’s Gospel and the incredible moment that prepares the way for Jesus’ birth. We often jump straight into the nativity story but this year we’re slowing down to focus on what happened before Jesus came to earth. Before Jesus there was Theophilus, Zechariah & his wife Elizabeth, King Herod, the angel, John the Baptist and 18,000 priests! Weaving all these relationships together was the Holy Spirit, moving and acting in awesome ways. So how does the Holy Spirit work amongst our relationships within the church? That’s a question to ponder anew (what the almighty can do) throughout our ordinary, everyday lives.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Simon Harry from Bewdley Baptist Church shares his research on encouraging intergenerational connections in church life. Simon explores 1 Samuel 3 in the Old Testament and speaks about the challenge of how we can grow in getting to know one another better.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Communion. Eucharist. Mass. Just three of many names used to describe something familiar to some of us but foreign to many. Why do we do it? And what does it mean?
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Silence is a rare thing these days. We are often surrounded by noise and bustle so it is good to take a couple of minutes to pause and be thankful for those who have given their lives to protect our country. But what other thoughts and emotions will pass through your mind in that reflective silence? We live in troubled times but are not the first to do so. In Romans 8, Paul talks about 'our present suffering', so let's explore his thoughts to see how, as present-day followers of Jesus, we might respond to the problems around us.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Church. God’s community. Different characters, personalities and life experiences, but gathering to grow in faith and follow Jesus. This is what belonging to a church is about. Do you belong to a church, and if so how?
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

One of the blessings of community life at church is the wide range of ages often present when we get together. It’s probably one of the distinct characteristics of church life. While we gather from different generations, how well do we know one another? We speak a lot about friendship, but is that possible across generations? The Bible says a lot about an older generation investing in the younger and the younger ones inspiring those in their elder years. In the last of our series on friendship, we look at the story of Moses as an inspiration for friendship between generations.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

SBC is growing in cultural diversity, but this is also true of our town and wider community. What does it look like to build friendships among different languages, faiths and cultural differences? How can the good news of Jesus be shared within those friendships?
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Jesus had 12 close friends, His disciples, at the age of 30. Some people might consider that His greatest miracle! Joking aside, what does the Bible say about Jesus’s friendship among the 12 disciples? What happens when 12-15 meet up regularly to share life and grow in faith, and how does this benefit friendship?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Do you ever feel the pressure of friendship? If so, why? This pressure can be for many reasons - a lack of spare time or what is or isn't being said on social media are just two examples. But it is important to realise that spiritual opposition is fundamental in this pressure. The devil’s goal is to isolate us. God’s desire is for us to find community and flourish in our friendships.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What makes someone your best friend? That can be a tricky question regardless of whether you are 5, 25 or 85, as sometimes you just don't know! So instead perhaps we should consider what are the best kinds of friendships, and how does Jesus show us in his own life this kind of friendship?
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

“Good friendship changes everything” says author Phil Knox in his book, ‘Best of Friends’. More than that, he explains how vital friendship is when we follow Jesus because we cannot follow him alone. Church life can mean many things to many people, but at its heart is friendship with God and people. What does friendship mean to you? Who are your friends both inside and outside the church? What does true friendship look like? These questions and more will be explored over the coming weeks as we go deeper into a biblical understanding of friendship.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

We are all on the road to learning, growing and maturing in Christ-likeness. What an adventure that is! But even better - we are not told to do this alone. Ephesians 4:1-16 speaks about all Christians playing their part to encourage others to grow in maturity in Christ.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

How many of you have picked up the bible, read a few verses, put it down again, looked into the distance and said quietly to yourself, 'I just don't get it'? This is what the disciples of Jesus thought when he spoke to them after the miracle of feeding the five thousand. Some of them got so confused and bewildered by Jesus's teaching on the 'bread of life' that they drifted away and left him. We might be tempted to do the same when we don't get it. But don't do that! It is better to choose Jesus, whom we don't understand rather than the world we do. Why? Because the world we do understand gives us pain, whereas the Jesus we don't understand takes the pain away!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

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Feeding 5000 people sounds like a mammoth job, and with few resources, it seems an impossible problem! But Jesus pulled it off, and it became one of his most famous miracles. What do we do when we are facing a tricky situation? Do we look to Jesus to help us? If not then perhaps we should because, as this story shows, Jesus can be the solution to any problem!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

The book of Nehemiah is a great place to look when searching for a story of hope, joy, grace and renewal. The joy of the Lord was their strength and can be ours today!
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Does life sometimes feel like a rollercoaster?! In the ups and downs that we face, where can we turn for help? Psalm 46 has the answer! It tells of an unshakeable God who offers us his power, presence and peace.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Everyone loves a wedding! But would you be willing to go out into the streets and extend an open invitation to anyone who would come? As we come near the end of our series about the Kingdom of God, we see an open invitation to any who will respond to be the people of the Kingdom. No matter our background, culture or nation, we are all invited to come and be a part of the Kingdom of God, but are we willing to make the sacrifices to enter into a life of complete commitment to Christ?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

This week the UK has been to the polls to decide which political party will be in power for the next 5 years. In other countries, similar elections have recently taken place or will soon be held. Around the world, governments exercise power with varying degrees of wisdom, integrity and competence. As Christians, we are also citizens of another kingdom, the Kingdom of God. But what is the source of power in the Kingdom of God and who exercises it? Perhaps you have more power than you think!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What is the parable of the Sower all about? The seed? The types of earth? No! The clue is in the name - it's about the Sower, who represents God. A God that spreads his love (the seed) across all types of soil (our hearts), regardless of whether they are hard, stony, chocked with seeds or fertile.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Kingdom Peace comes through having a different vision - the vision of Isaiah, one of the Old Testament's greatest prophets. The apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, implores us to be ambassadors of this Kingdom Peace. But how can we do that when every day we look upon conflict between people and nations? It seems impossible to us. But maybe our judgement is wrong and God’s vision is correct. If that were true, it would give us something significant. It would provide us with HOPE.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Do religion and politics mix? Some may want to view them like oil and water - things that separate themselves out. But the Bible shows us that God is always concerned for the welfare of humanity and good governance. Leadership and social issues are very much part of the faith and life and how we engage with politics matters.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

How does one participate in the Kingdom of God? Well, in His parables, Jesus gave examples - something that could grow from small beginnings, like a mustard seed, or something that could affect great change, like yeast in flour. And how best to action this? Check out 2 Peter 1:5-7 - there is a clear answer!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

"Surely the Lord was in this place, and I was not aware of it…How awesome is this place!". This is what Jacob said in Genesis 28. There are places where God seems closer than normal. Celtic Christianity speaks of “thin places” where the distance between heaven and earth collapses. Was this the experience of Pentecost when the Spirit came and moved among the followers of Jesus? And where is your “thin place”? Maybe walking on the beach, on top of a mountain, in a religious building or even at church on Sunday?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What was the greatest theme that Jesus spoke about during his three years of ministry on Earth? It might surprise you that it wasn’t the church but the Kingdom of God. Jesus spoke loads about this topic. It could be compared to a bar of soap - slippery to handle, but it makes you clean! Okay, maybe that analogy is a bit rubbish - but there are so many ways Jesus explained the Kingdom and described it. Some people got it, others didn’t. Over the next few weeks, we’ll dive deeper into this amazing topic and catch a glimpse of the Kingdom here on Earth.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

'Do you love me?'. It's a big question. It's a question Jesus asked the disciple Peter three times at the end of the greatest story ever told. 'Do you love me?' As one story was ending, another was beginning. 'Feed my sheep'. Jesus had been crucified and he had resurrected. He was giving Peter a big job. 'Feed my sheep'. How do these verses change things today - for you and the church? How do we love him? How do we feed his sheep?'…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Baker, Le Tissier, Patel, Vale. Names often have meaning, telling us about family origins - perhaps their trade or status or where their house could be found. Similarly, the name of the Lord our God tells us very much who He is. His name is Yahweh in the Hebrew. It is often translated to 'I am who I am', but it is a phrase without any tense. So it can also mean 'I've always been who I've always been' or 'I will always be who I will always be.' Therefore, it is a name that embraces any situation and reminds us that in these, God - if called upon - will be sufficient for anything and everything we will need.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Breakfast. The experts say it is the most important meal of the day. What does yours typically consist of? When the resurrected Jesus invites his followers to ‘Come and have breakfast’, it is an invitation to recognise Jesus, to identify him, to know him and to be present with him. So not only the best meal of the day but the best meal of their lifetime! And the good news is that this is an invitation open to all of us. Join Him!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Easter has happened, and Christ has risen! Just as the disciples continued to be amazed in the days and weeks that came after, we too can continue to learn and be astonished as we continue this journey with Jesus.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Easter is about rising from the dead, rising from the ashes of lost hope and rising from a life of loneliness and separation to a life of joining God and living with him forevermore. The cross is the greatest act of love where forgiveness reigns and reconciliation rules. Jesus is Lord. He is Risen. Hallelujah! This Easter, commit to Jesus and celebrate lives transformed and changed. In a world of such bad news, we need the Good News more than ever!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

James concludes his letter by writing about the ups and downs of community life and how PRAYER and PRAISE need to be woven throughout our relationship with God and one another. James’ final sentence focuses on people who may have wandered away from FAITH. Because James is about doing faith, not just having faith! Why not act now to pray and encourage people in their faith journey! Especially friends you might know. As J.R.R. Tolkien said, “Not all who wander are lost”!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

In chapter 5 of his letter, James encourages us to be patient, but, in reality, what does that mean? Well, in simple terms, being patient in waiting, patient in times of difficulty and patient with each other. But this is not easy - we all struggle with patience if we’re honest! The good news is we don’t have to struggle in our own strength - we have the power of the living Lord Jesus available to help us. Now that really is good news!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What is your life? That is the simple but very difficult question James asks in chapter 4, verse 14. This is more than a philosophical question. It is a question at the heart of what it means to be human and created in God’s image. Our life is precious, but it is a life that can be shaped, formed, filled and led by the love of God. Your life matters to God, so live it in such a way that God matters too!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

James does not pull any punches in our passage today. He reminds us that our behaviour towards each other is a window into the state of our hearts. And the language he uses to do this is both blunt and emotive. Why? To make the point that many in the early church had chosen to seek what the world offers rather than God. But if you, like the early church, are concerned that your heart may be pointing in the wrong direction, then James has some amazing news.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Who is the wisest person you know? Is wisdom based on intelligence and volume of knowledge? Or is wisdom based on emotional maturity? Or perhaps wisdom is about self-awareness. I mean, we’re all insecure right, but we might not all be self-aware? James asks the question, ‘Who is wise among you?’ He then shares what true, godly wisdom looks like. It is curious, but James connects wisdom with knowing God (Proverbs 1:7) and how we speak to people around us (James 3:17-18). Our language matters! Wisdom is about choosing to speak the right way, perhaps with the right tone, certainly with the right motive and it should always lead to peace building.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Just do it'! Three words that capture the spirit of active faith from James 2:14-25, where he says faith without deeds is dead. But then the question is: 'What makes a Christian good deed compared to a worldly good deed'? And then: 'What is the ultimate good deed'?
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Justice and equality for every human being is the heart of the good news of Jesus. As Paul says to the Galatians, 'There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.' In James's letter, the instruction is typically blunt: 'My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favouritism'. So let us accept this challenge and, in doing so, keep the royal law found in Scripture: 'Love your neighbour as yourself'.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Do you know someone who is a great listener? Listening shows attention, care, love, dignity, and the possibility of a deeper understanding of someone else and their situation and circumstance. People who really listen are such a gift to the community. James understood this. He wrote to small communities of Jesus' followers, telling them how important it is to listen well to one another and the word of God. Let’s learn to listen and not be tempted to finish someone else sentence for them!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

We often look for the easy way out of difficult situations, but James turns this on its head, telling us to joyfully persevere when our faith is tested! He's right of course, because like exercise develops our bodies, when our faith is tested, our endurance has a chance to grow, making us more mature Christians.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

When life hurts, it's sometimes difficult to be loyal to God. In such times, the letter of James is a great place to turn to for encouragement. It is a short book of the Bible written by the brother of Jesus to new Christians who face persecution for their faith. It is a practical, down to earth book that aims to help people stick with their newfound faith.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Ever had that moment when you're just about to go out but you can't find your car keys? Or you try to get into your home but the keys aren't where they should be? Just when you need them they seem to have disappeared. Our faith can be a bit like that - it can't be found when we most need it. As we start 2024, we explore what happened to the disciples that led to Jesus asking, 'Where is your faith?' and consider how we might respond.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Where do you go to, to look for God? That may seem a strange question but go a little deeper and you may begin to answer it in surprising ways. The final talk in our series, ‘Seeking God’ is about finding God in all things. At the heart of this is discovering that God can be experienced when walking, working, meeting friends and socialising, reading scriptures and praying, watching the news and worshipping, serving in church or in the wider community. The list is endless but the question remains, ‘when did you last find God?’…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What does it mean to "die to self"? It's a strange phrase, but commonly used in the New Testament. Baptism is a sign of how we begin this journey. Romans 6:4 says, "For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives". It means moving from an old way to a new way of living.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Surfing, well, it’s probably the nearest thing to walking on water! Perhaps Peter should have tried it when he got out of the boat to follow Jesus (Matthew 14:22-36). This moment on the water is an example of how we interact with Jesus. We sometimes feel like we’re sinking. All is not well. But then Jesus reaches out to grab us. That is the amazing part!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

In a world that has been historically, and is currently, subjected to dreadful wars, is it naïve to think peace is possible? If we are thinking of some kind of utopia, a place where there is no conflict and strife, then the answer is clearly no. But by looking at the words of the prophet Isaiah and John’s gospel, we can see that, whatever situation we are in, we may have hope and peace in Jesus.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What do you most desire? Are you longing for anything in particular? What do you want God to do? Perhaps these sound like selfish questions, but every one of us has a desire, and it just may be God-given! The truth is that godly desire is crucial to following Jesus. So give it a try. Who knows, you might even get some cake!? :)…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Seeking God through the ‘Doorway of Repentance.’ That seems a serious topic and it is! But repentance can also bring joy and excitement! Listen and discover how and why!
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What kind of life are you living? What kind of life does God want to give you? These are the two questions we explore as we continue our series, ‘Seeking God Together’, inviting you to LIVE MORE, discovering a new kind of life and way of encountering the goodness of Jesus.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What would it mean to discover another kind of life? That is the invitation as we begin a new series of talks this Sunday on the theme ‘SEEKING GOD’. Becoming a Christian is not the end of the faith journey but the beginning. Seeking God is not only for people outside the church but inside too and if you make a decision to seek God you won’t be left disappointed.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What we have received from our relationship with God should be the foundation for how we might love and serve one another. Simply put, how we choose to love one another can help our church (or any other community) flourish and can also be a witness to the world.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

In this very special service we welcome Alysen Merrill, who is taking up the role of Church Ministry Lead. We will celebrate together by hearing how God has led both Alysen and us at SBC to this moment as she joins the staff team. This is a step of faith, trusting in the Lord’s leading and a sign that we want to invest in a growing church with the aim of sharing the transforming love of Jesus for all.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Within the seasons of our lives there’s a time and a season for everything, and a reason for each season. As September is often a time for new starts and changes for many, we can be comforted by God’s words for us in these times.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

The writer of the letter to the Hebrews spent many chapters explaining how Jesus fulfilled all the promises made to God's people, but then asks the question, so what? In light of all Jesus has done, how should we then live?
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Fixing our eyes on Jesus can sometimes be a challenge, but in the book of Hebrews we're given great encouragement in just a few verses. From these we can take encouragement from men and women of faith that have gone before us and we have a great example to follow in Jesus Christ, one who endured life's challenges and comes alongside us as we run the race of life. Let's be encouraged together as we persevere through life and look forwards to a heavenly goal.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Faith, true faith. What is this? Hebrews 11 says 'Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see'. This is easier said than done for many of us, who like to see the things we are putting our faith in. If that's the case then the good news is that, if you look around, you see God's fingerprints all over what He provided us, from the universe He has created to the person next to you. Hold onto that as you next step out in faith!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

We should be bold, confident and brave to act in the full assurance of Christ, because that is what the writer of Hebrews urged us to do. We should encourage and spur each other on to love and good deeds in line with Hebrews 10:24, because if we do not do this, we risk forgetting who Jesus Christ is, how much He loves us and what He did for each one of us. We risk getting caught up in the world and forgetting that we can draw near to God through the new way Jesus opened up for us at any time and in any place. Why would we risk this when together we can hold fast to our faith and act in the full assurance of Christ, particularly as the BIG DAY is approaching?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Jesus had been creating waves across the nation, with his miracles and controversial teaching. Sensing a problem the religious leaders came from far and wide and packed into a small house in Capernaum to suss out what was going on. Jesus took the opportunity to turn up the volume on God's message to his people. The religious leaders didn’t like what they heard and put God back on mute, whilst others were astonished at what happened and glorified God. How will we respond?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

The heart of giving is grace filled, which means giving is not motivated by a guilt trip, nor is it about pressure or unwise choices. Rather giving comes from the grace of God, an opportunity to support the need of others, and a sacrificial desire to see the church grow. It about the Kingdom of God breaking in where lives are change, transformed and celebrated!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Celebrate Good Times, Come On! I’m sure you know the song but how well do we live it out? How do we live a life of celebration, even when times are hard?
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

God is always challenging us to step deeper in to faith. To walk the path He wants us to walk. And so often this leads to new places. We just need to listen to what God is saying. As it says in Isaiah 43:19 'See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?'
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What do people in the UK think about Jesus, the church and evangelism? Based on the results of a recent survey then more people want to know more about Jesus! We hope you will be inspired to know Jesus and make Jesus known or, put another way, to experience the love of God and to share the love of God.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Jesus was sent to earth to save us and show us the way to ‘life in all its fullness’ (John 10:10). Jesus then invites us to join him and be sent in to the world to share God’s love (John 3:16). We need to learn to do that, and that can be a life long adventure. It is exciting, full of ups and downs, times of trust and encounters of doubt but everyone who says ‘yes’ to Jesus says ‘yes’ to the mission of Jesus. Have you said ‘yes’ to both yet?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Do you think you have beautiful feet? Feet aren’t always considered to be a favourite part of the body, but Romans 10:15 boldly claims: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news”. As Christians we have good news to share in a world dominated by bad news. The question is, are we prepared to go feet first?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Pentecost Sunday. A time for the church to focus on the work of the Spirit and the birth of the church. Each week we are seeing God at work in new ways and that is amazing but it can also be challenging too. As the Spirit delights to bring us gifts to serve and empowers us with courage to grow more in Christ-like character and love, let us be alive to what God might show us. Church is a place to be comforted but never too comfortable.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

When Jesus gave His disciples the great commission it was not a polite request - rather it was a command of great urgency. Does that still apply for His disciples today? If so what does that mean in regards our approach to sharing the good news of Christ Jesus locally, nationally and globally.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

“The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few”. These well-known words of Jesus were originally given to seventy people before He sent them to be messengers of peace, who receive generous hospitality, bring healing and then share the words, ‘the Kingdom of God has come near to you’. Which of these four inspires or challenges you most?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

As we start to explore what it means to be Together in Mission, we have to ask ourselves what our Mission is and what we have to offer the world by proclaiming King Jesus. The good news is that the coming of his kingdom is a powerful antidote to the power struggles and back-biting we often see around us. He is all powerful and yet gentle in spirit. His rule is defined by grace and forgiveness. Come let us worship the King of Kings.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

What does it mean to join God in his mission throughout the world? Mission is about crossing cultures, sharing life with people around us and having a heart to offer the good news of Jesus who is the hope of the world.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

'Peace be with you'. These were the words the resurrected Jesus shared with his disciples when he suddenly appeared amongst them in Luke 24. Peace be with you!!??? What did he mean? How could the disciples possibly feel peace when he who had died was suddenly alive. They were terrified and yet, just fifteen verses later, as they witnessed Jesus ascending to the heavens, they are described as having great joy. How did this happen? How did they go from fear, doubt and uncertainty to peace, faith and joy in fifteen verses? It was through three keys to peace which Jesus offered to the disciples two thousand years ago and which, thankfully, He still offers to us today.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

After the excitement and thrill of the Easter message it would be easy to view some of the subsequent events as an anti-climax, like the doubting and fearful disciples and the appearances of Jesus where He wasn’t recognised. An example of both of these is the story of the two companions as they journey to Emmaus. As usual, Luke gives intriguing details that have much to teach us.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Many of us feel empty. The wonderful news is that, because of something else that was empty - Jesus's tomb - our lives do not have to be like this. Rather, by following Jesus, the risen Christ, we can have the hope of resurrection life and the victory over death, and lives lived to the full, just as they were meant to be.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Palm Sunday is an exciting time of worship and celebration as our entry into Holy Week reflects Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. In Luke’s gospel we hear that cloaks instead of palm branches were used as symbols of hope, recognising that Jesus is King over all. May we too be hopeful, and also dedicated in our worship and celebration of Jesus, giving thanks as we approach the cross and the empty grave!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

As Baptists we love a good baptism! There is such joy and celebration when someone says they want to be baptised. Baptism is about a person who believes they need to publicly share their personal faith in Jesus’ love, forgiveness and salvation. It is about being baptised into the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This is wonderful, because it’s an invitation to belong to God and catch a glimpse of perfect community. Baptism is the start of a journey, learning more and more about God’s character and trusting God for this life and the life to come. Jesus too was baptised - listen to the reason why this is so important for each and every one of us.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Let's be honest, we are all tempted sometimes. Some might say it's only human. Jesus was tempted in the desert, but unlike us He's both fully human and fully divine. Satan obviously knew this, so tried tempting Him from both angles. But Jesus did not give in. How did He do this? And how can this help us when we are tempted?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Like the snow this week falling all around us, the Spirit is described as falling on Jesus at his baptism and during a time of prayer. The Spirit then leads Jesus and then empowers him. Lent is an opportunity to be led by the Spirit and empowered by the Spirit to follow the Way of Jesus. A way that brings peace and assurance in a world of anxiety and insecurity.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Many of us today tend to ignore or avoid street preachers, especially when they start shouting that people walking past are sinners. But in Jesus day people flocked to hear a prophet called John, who told them the messiah was coming and they needed to repent of their sin and get ready. As we look towards Easter, are we ready for this season of reflection and celebration or will the hills and the valleys of our life block our view of the Jesus?…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday, February 19, 2023. In this service, Rick Lewis from Sydney Australia, speaks from Romans 15: 1-7 on the theme: Together in Community – Welcome people and encourage hospitality.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday, February 12, 2023. In this service, Mat Wilson uses Romans 16 as a powerful example of community and gospel life, challenging us to share Christ-like love in our relationships with others.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday February 5, 2023, where Mat Wilson explains why small groups within a larger church community matter, how friendships can develop and the importance of growing in faith together.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday January 29, 2023. In the Fourth of our 'Together in Community' series Mat Wilson speaks from 1 Corinthians 12 on sharing our Cultures.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday January 22, 2023. In the third of our 'Together in Community' series Amanda Crocker speaks from 1 Corinthians 12 on sharing our gifts.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday January 15, 2023. Continuing our series - 'Together in Community' - Mat Wilson speaks from 1 John 4 on Sharing in God’s life.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday January 8, 2023. In the first of a new series - 'Together in Community' - Mat Wilson speaks on how we should spur one another on, referencing SBC's verse for 2023 (Hebrews 10:24).
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday January 1, 2023. In the last of our services in the 'Together in Worship' series, Rebecca Balderson speaks on worshipping the King of Kings.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday December 11, 2022. On this third Sunday in Advent Peter Close speaks on the topic of ‘Worship: Praise Among the Nations’, explaining how John's message in Revelations can shape our lives today.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday December 4, 2022. This Sunday, the Second in Advent, Mat Wilson continues our series on ‘Together in Worship’ as he speaks on the topic of ‘Worship: Spirit filled encouragement’
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday December 4, 2022. This Sunday, the Second in Advent, Mat Wilson continues our series on ‘Together in Worship’ as he speaks on the topic of ‘Worship: Spirit Filled Encouragement’ .
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday November 27, 2022. This Sunday, the first in Advent, Mat Wilson continues our series on ‘Together in Worship’ as he speaks on the topic of ‘Worship as an outpouring of love.’
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday November 20, 2022. In this Sunday service, we continue our series on ‘Together in Worship’. Chris Maggs speaks from John 4: 24 & 2 Corinthians 3: 12-18 on Worship At the cross of freedom.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday November 13, 2022. In this Remembrance Sunday service, we continue our series on ‘Together in Worship’ as we discover from Psalm 42 how it is still possible to praise God in the midst of a broken world. Remembrance Sunday is a time for silent reflection about wars both past and present and a longing for peace and wholeness. As we worship together, may our collective praise be heard in the midst of a broken world, and may each soul be encouraged by the God who is the giver of hope and the rock when all else fails.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday November 06, 2022. In this service, the first in a new sermon series called ‘Together in Worship’, Mat Wilson focuses on how we should be giving our ‘everything’ to God during that very special time when we gather together in community on Sundays.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday October 9, 2022. In this service we welcome Kang-San Tan, who is the General Director of BMS World Mission. Kang-San speaks from Ruth 1: 1-17, talking about the work of BMS World Mission and how we at SBC can be part of something much bigger!…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday October 2, 2022. Over the past four weeks Mat has shared on the theme of ‘Togetherness in Christ’. This Sunday he adds an extra talk with the title ‘Together in God's Mission’. However, don't think that this means mission should be considered an added extra. No! Rather, mission is rooted in the very heart and character of God. This can be seen when we consider the letter to Philippians as a whole, as it is a letter that calls us to be together in mission, demonstrating and declaring the hope of Jesus to a hurting and often hopeless world. And in support of this we hear from our global mission partner Charly Tom as he updates us on the exciting things the Lord is doing through ‘Mercy Mission’ in India.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday September 25, 2022. In this service, Mat Wilson, using Philippians 4, speaks on the theme ‘Together in Christ’ which is an invitation to stand firm.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday September 18, 2022. In this service, Mat Wilson, using Philippians 3 as his reference, explains how being ‘together in Christ’ means having a confidence in Christ. It means living in such a way that deep down we trust Jesus and find security in him, and how this is especially the case when life seems overwhelming.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday September 11, 2022. In this service, Mat Wilson speaks from Philippians 2, on the theme “Together Reflecting Christ”. The service will include a time of giving thanks for the Life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday September 4, 2022. In this service, the first in a series entitled 'Together in Christ', Mat Wilson shares what it means to be a community of God’s people who live out the gospel together, with gratitude at the heart of our relationships to God and one another.…
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday August 28, 2022. In this service, Chris Maggs asks us to dip our toes into some images of water in the Bible and maybe, even, pluck up the courage for a swim.
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday August 21, 2022, where Amanda Crocker shares from 1 Peter 2 about "The Vital Connection".
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Shirley Baptist Church Solihull, Sermons

Worship from Shirley Baptist Church, Shirley, Solihull, UK for Sunday August 14, 2022, where Zoe Rose uses John 17 to reflect on the extraordinary things done by ordinary lives for God's kingdom.
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