In this talk we unpack Paul’s various trials relating to his new found faith. The reality is as people we probably won’t end up in a courtroom defending our beliefs, however, have you ever been asked a difficult question about your faith? Or been asked to explain what you believe in? Gavin gives some helpful tips for defending your faith as well as reminding us what our ultimate motivation should be when having these conversations.

If there was ever a manual for Christian discipleship it must be the book of Acts! This breathtaking story highlights, amongst many other things that are important to the spiritual formation of a believer in the context of church community, how we handle our money with grace-filled generosity and godly stewardship, makes a difference.

In Acts, we see that leaders are vital to the church being all it is called to be. Whether it is leading in the church, the home, the workplace or somewhere else, there are lessons we can learn from Paul’s farewell speech to the leaders in this passage.

In the Gospels, we note that Jesus was not the only one who had disciples. but he had an emphasis on disciple making, and like everything else is the greatest example for us. The task of discipleship is the responsibility of the Church. In this talk we’re going to look at the importance of discipleship and it’s generational impact on the Church and the society.

Jesus said, ‘But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth’ (Acts 11:8). So with this and Jesus’ Great Commission in mind, what did Paul and Barnabas do? They planted churches!

We come to one of the most amazing stories in the book of Acts, in-prisoned, due to be sentenced, in chains and guarded with additional security, all seems lost for Peter. As he sat in his prison cell his church family were reacting in the best way they knew, reaching out to God in prayer. During this talk Gavin unpacks the subject of miracles and challenges us to expect the unexpected. There is then a challenge to be a praying community, taking heart from the early church’s response to hardship.

God’s plan was always that the good news of His Son would go to all nations. In this story of Peter and Cornelius we see that this good news is for everyone, it is enough and it is joyful!

A subject that’s historically been debated by Christians seems to have been practices by the early church with no difference of opinion. The book of Acts provides us with a helpful insight into this commandment given to us by Jesus, and provides a number of examples as well theological basis for it. In this sermon we’ll look at the “what, who, and how” questions around baptism.

The Apostle Paul next to Jesus, is probably the most influential man that has ever lived. His church planting, teaching and writings legacy continue to change the world today. Early church father John Chrysostom said this of the Apostle Paul “Put the whole world on one side of the scale and you will see that the soul of Paul outweighs it.” Yet like many of the early Christians who encountered God the Holy Spirit after Jesus ascended to heaven, we can learn quite a bit about how ordinary people are changed by an extraordinary God. This case study allows us to explore how the grace and wonder of our God transforms even the most toughest of men. Will this true story fuel us with faith to share the gospel that changed us - the greatest gift possible?

The miraculous story of the growth of the early church in the book of Acts happens through conversions. The stories of these conversions of thousands of people isn’t known individually. But Luke in Acts gives us some details of a few. They are extraordinary windows into how people come to know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. What we learn is that the gospel comes with wisdom and power. That it is ‘joy news’ not just good advice. That is it is much bigger than we often make it. That it is a nation shaper, person transformer, community builder, and joy bringer!

Why? Because ultimately is not about a set of values or a list of ‘do its’. Its about a relationship….a friendship…a trust…with Christ. Bottom line - its all about Jesus!

The book of Acts tells us a handful of details about Stephen’s life and focuses more on the moments before his death. We can learn much from him and his courageous stand for Jesus.

Under normal circumstances, opposition from authorities may lead to surrender, However, in the case of the early church, it lead to growth of the church and spread of the Gospel. Just as the authorities were trying to silence the apostles (sometimes resorting to violence), it becomes clear that no door can be closed to God.

In the midst of great breakthrough, growth and the miraculous spreading of the Christian faith, we come to a point in Acts where there is ‘a complaint’! The apostles and the disciples had to handle the reality of real people forming family and community together  - a setting for conflict, grumbles and disagreement!

As we celebrate new babies in Jubilee at our dedication service Gavin unpacks one of the most famous stories in the bible and how, like Zacchaeus we all have a decision to make. Are you going to climb the tree to get a better glimpse of Jesus or will you blend in to the crowd?

Following the day of Pentecost, as 3000 people were added to those who were following the Lord, a new community was beginning to form which was centred around Jesus, motivated by love and united in it’s purpose.

This is the story of Easter! This is the power that is changing the world!