New City Fellowship - Chattanooga: The Jesus We Need to Know

Return To Glory Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0100

Return To Glory Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 12th April 2026

Passage: John 17:1-5

Return To Glory

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Return To Glory

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 15th March 2026

Passage: John 17:1-5

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In the final hours before His crucifixion, Jesus offered what many consider the greatest prayer ever recorded, revealing the true driving force behind His entire mission. While we understand that Jesus came to seek and save the lost, His High Priestly Prayer in John 17:1-5 unveils something deeper: His ultimate purpose was to glorify the Father. Five times in these verses, Jesus mentions glory, demonstrating that our salvation, while incredibly important, serves the greater goal of displaying God's magnificent character throughout creation.

Jesus fulfills the role of our eternal High Priest, but unlike the Old Testament priests who offered animal sacrifices annually, He entered heaven's sanctuary with His own perfect blood, securing eternal redemption. What makes Jesus uniquely qualified as our High Priest is that He truly understands our human experience. He lived in human flesh, felt physical pain, experienced temptation, and faced the frailty of human existence—yet remained without sin. This intimate knowledge of our struggles makes Him the perfect mediator between God and humanity.

When Jesus declared that His hour had come, He was acknowledging that the moment for His ultimate glorification through suffering had arrived. Through perfect obedience, accomplishing the work given to Him, revealing God's character, and providing the ultimate demonstration of divine love and justice, Jesus brought maximum glory to the Father. This understanding should transform how we view our own salvation and daily lives—we're not just saved from something, but saved to participate in God's eternal plan of displaying His glory to all creation.

Jesus Wins Pt 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Jesus Wins Pt 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 8th March 2026

Passage: John 16:25-33

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In a world filled with conflict and struggle, we often seek victory through earthly means, but there's a greater spiritual battle that affects every human heart. The greatest war humanity has ever faced isn't fought with tanks or bombs, but is the spiritual conflict between the world, the flesh, and the devil. This underlying battle produces all earthly conflicts and has consequences that extend beyond physical death to eternal death. Jesus came to fight this ultimate war and has already won it for all who trust in Him.

The disciples' overconfidence in their faith mirrors our own tendency to think more highly of ourselves spiritually than we ought. When they declared their strong belief and understanding, Jesus responded by predicting their abandonment of Him during His arrest. This reveals an important truth: our victory doesn't depend on having perfect faith, complete understanding, or unwavering commitment. Instead, our victory is assured because Jesus won it, not because we have it all together. This stands in stark contrast to prosperity theology that places confidence in our own faith rather than in Jesus' victory.

Jesus makes two crucial promises about life's realities. First, He offers peace that is found in being spiritually joined to Him—a tranquil state of soul assured of salvation and content regardless of earthly circumstances. Second, He honestly warns that we will face tribulation, including trouble, pressure, suffering, and persecution. However, He encourages us to take heart because He has overcome the world through His perfect life, death, resurrection, and ascension. We walk in this victory daily through faith in Jesus, by not loving worldly things above the Father, and by trusting Him through struggles that develop our spiritual strength. Our battles are won not through our own strength but through His completed victory on our behalf.

Jesus Wins

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Jesus Wins

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 1st March 2026

Passage: John 16:25-33

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Many American Christians today are walking away from their faith, often falling into three destructive patterns: trying to convert culture by compromising values, condemning culture by retreating from the world, or consuming culture by watering down truth. None of these approaches work because they miss the fundamental reality that Jesus has already secured the victory.

In John 16:25-33, Jesus speaks to his disciples on the night before his crucifixion, preparing them for a time when they would understand clearly who he is and his relationship to the Father. He promises that after his resurrection, they would be able to pray directly to the Father in his name, revealing for the first time that God is truly his Father. The revolutionary truth Jesus shares is that the Father himself loves his disciples - not just through Jesus as a mediator, but the Father directly and personally loves them.

This corrects a dangerous misunderstanding many Christians have about God's love. Rather than believing that God loves us because Jesus died for us, the truth is that Jesus died for us because the Father already loved us. God chose to set his love upon us before the foundation of the world, not because we were lovable, but according to his own will and purpose. When we live from this security - knowing that we have a heavenly Father who loves us unconditionally - it transforms our relationships, our worship, and our ability to love others. Even in tribulation, we can take heart because Jesus has overcome the world, and nothing can separate us from the Father's love.

The Path To Joy Pt 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The Path To Joy Pt 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 15th February 2026

Passage: John 16:16-24

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Jesus taught His disciples that true joy comes through a different path than worldly happiness. Using the illustration of childbirth, He showed how pain can become the source of our greatest joy when we see God's purposes fulfilled. The resurrection changes everything, making Christian joy indestructible because it depends on Christ's victory, not our circumstances. Through faith in Jesus, we receive adoption as God's children with direct access to our Heavenly Father. This spiritual adoption gives us a new identity, privileges, and nature as partakers of the divine life. Joy becomes our flag of victory, raised because our King is present even in our darkest moments.

The Path to Joy

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The Path to Joy

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Date: 8th February 2026

Passage: John 16:16-24

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Life presents a confusing paradox where joy and sorrow often coexist, but in God's kingdom, sorrow frequently serves as the pathway to genuine, lasting joy. When we face difficult circumstances, Romans 8:28-29 reminds us that God works all things together for good for those who love Him, with the ultimate purpose being our transformation into Christ's likeness. The African American church exemplifies this truth, finding explosive joy amid oppression through spiritual resilience and sacred defiance. Paul's teachings reveal that tribulation is the pathway to God's kingdom, and our temporary suffering prepares us for eternal glory. God doesn't abandon us in pain but uses it purposefully to shape, strengthen, and prepare us for His glory.

The Work of the Spirit

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The Work of the Spirit

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 1st February 2026

Passage: John 16:4-15

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When Jesus announced His departure to the disciples, their hearts were filled with sorrow. After three years of witnessing His miracles and teachings, the thought of losing their beloved teacher was devastating. Yet Jesus made a remarkable statement that it was actually to their advantage that He leave. This wasn't abandonment but preparation for something greater - the coming of the Holy Spirit.Jesus explained that His physical departure was necessary for the Spirit to come in fullness. The disciples thought having Jesus physically present was ideal, but Jesus understood they needed more than His presence beside them - they needed Him in them through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit operates on divine timing and could only be poured out after Jesus died, rose, and was exalted to the Father's right hand. Jesus had been withholding certain truths because the disciples weren't ready, operating on a need-to-know basis that applies to our lives today.The Holy Spirit works in three primary ways in our lives. First, He convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment, exposing truth and calling people to account. Second, He guides believers into truth, primarily through God's Word, helping us understand spiritual realities as we mature. Third, He glorifies Jesus by taking what belongs to Christ and declaring it to believers. All Christians possess the Holy Spirit from the moment of salvation - there's no need for a second blessing. The African American church exemplifies the Spirit's power, thriving with joy despite facing systematic oppression, illiteracy mandates, and persecution. As believers today face increasing cultural marginalization, we can learn from their example of maintaining faith and effectiveness under pressure while trusting the Spirit to guide us according to His perfect timing.

Kingdoms In Conflict - Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Kingdoms In Conflict - Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 25th January 2026

Passage: John 15:18-16:4

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Jesus warned His disciples that the world would hate them, just as it hated Him. The world system, governed by the evil one, fundamentally opposes God and leaves Him out entirely. Christians face hatred because they are no longer part of this world system - Jesus chose them out of it, making them traitors to worldly values. This opposition is inevitable for all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus. However, believers should respond not with worldly anger but with love and grace, remembering they have a heavenly Father who knew this opposition was coming and has equipped them for it.

Kingdoms in Conflict - Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Kingdoms in Conflict - Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 18th January 2026

Passage: John 15:18-16:4

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The Christian life involves navigating what missionary Leslie Newbegin called an unbearable tension between faith and the surrounding culture. In John 15:18-25, Jesus repeatedly warns that the world will hate His followers, using the word hate eight times to emphasize this reality. This hatred isn't mere disagreement but an intense aversion that leads to dismissal and harm. The world Jesus refers to isn't the physical earth but a system of values, priorities, and thinking that excludes God entirely.Throughout history, Christians have attempted to resolve this tension through various approaches: assimilation by conforming to worldly values, withdrawal by creating separate Christian communities, combat by attacking secular culture, or nostalgia by longing for times when Christianity held more influence. However, Jesus chose none of these responses. Instead, He lived faithfully in the tension, remaining committed to His Father's will while engaging a world that ultimately rejected Him.The key insight is that Christians shouldn't try to make the world love them by compromising biblical truth. James 4:4 warns against friendship with the world's system, though this doesn't prohibit relationships with non-believers. We're called to be joyful outsiders who serve as living testimonies to the gospel's transforming power, shining Christ's light while loving those who may hate us, hoping they might be brought from darkness into God's marvelous light.

Addicted To Love (Part 2)

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Addicted To Love (Part 2)

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 16th November 2025

Passage: John 15:9-17

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Many Christians struggle with whether God wants us to be happy, often creating false distinctions between happiness and joy. Scripture reveals that God Himself is joyful and takes pleasure in His works and people. Jesus experienced deep, indestructible joy that came from doing the Father's will, saving His people, and the promise of rewarding faithfulness. True joy comes from abiding in Christ's love - living in complete dependence on His acceptance and care. This joy can coexist with sorrow and suffering when our citizenship is in heaven rather than earth. Our joy in Christ becomes our greatest witness to a watching world.

Addicted To Love (Part 1)

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Addicted To Love (Part 1)

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 9th November 2025

Passage: John 15:9-17

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Jesus repeatedly emphasizes love in John 15:9-17 because humanity struggles to understand genuine love. Our natural love is self-centered and twisted, so Christ must teach us what real love looks like and place His love within us. Jesus declares that He loves us with the exact same intensity, permanence, and depth that the Father loves Him—a love that is perfect, eternal, exalting, protective, and deeply intimate.This divine love surpasses human comprehension, yet we're called to grow in experiencing it throughout our lives. Abiding in Christ's love means living in the reality of being perfectly accepted, which naturally leads to obedience—not from duty, but from transformation. When we're secure in His love, we no longer need constant validation from others or live enslaved to social media approval. We find freedom in knowing we're already accepted by the One who matters most.Trusting Jesus' leadership becomes easier when we understand His perfect love—He guides us like perfect GPS, always leading us where we need to be. Walking in community with other believers helps us comprehend God's love more fully. When we abide in Christ's love, it becomes our spiritual birthmark, naturally flowing out to others and eliminating church hurt through grace and truth. This transformative love changes our relationships, security, and ability to genuinely care for others' highest good.

A Productive Relationship, Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0100

A Productive Relationship, Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 19th October 2025

Passage: John 15:1-8

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This sermon explores Jesus' teaching about the vine and branches from John 15:1-8, emphasizing the vital relationship between believers and Christ. The pastor uses the metaphor of a community garden to illustrate how spiritual fruit doesn't happen by accident but requires intentional care and cooperation with God's work. The message addresses two types of branches - those that bear fruit and those that don't - explaining that unproductive branches represent false professors rather than true believers who lose salvation. The sermon emphasizes that God is determined to produce fruit in every true believer's life for His glory, but this requires our active cooperation through abiding in Christ and allowing His word to dwell in us richly.

A Productive Relationship Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0100

A Productive Relationship Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 12th October 2025

Passage: John 15:1-8

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This sermon explores Jesus' teaching from John 15:1-8 about the vine and branches, emphasizing that spiritual growth comes through dependence on Christ rather than self-improvement or worldly methods. The pastor explains that abiding in Christ means maintaining constant dependence on Him for vision, wisdom, and power to live as productive disciples. Using the analogy of a car battery and tea steeping, he illustrates how Christians must remain connected to Jesus to bear spiritual fruit. The message challenges believers to move beyond 'dipping' in and out of spiritual practices to truly 'steeping' in Christ through consistent dependence, recognizing that apart from Him we can do nothing.

A Productive Relationship

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0100

A Productive Relationship

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 21st September 2025

Passage: John 15:1-8

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In John 15, Jesus presents one of His most profound metaphors by declaring Himself the true vine. This final 'I am' statement in John's Gospel contrasts with Israel's portrayal as God's unfaithful vineyard in the Old Testament. Jesus establishes Himself as what Israel failed to be - the truly faithful servant of God.As the vinedresser, God both removes unfruitful branches and prunes fruitful ones for increased productivity. This pruning, though painful, represents God's loving cultivation rather than punishment. Paul's testimony in 2 Corinthians reveals that even the most faithful Christians experience suffering designed to deepen dependence on God rather than self-reliance. This contradicts prosperity gospel teachings, as Paul wore his hardships as badges of authentic ministry.Paradoxically, spiritual growth means becoming more dependent on Christ, not less. When God prunes us through difficulties, we should respond like Paul - bringing our pain to Jesus, accepting His sufficient grace, leaning into rather than away from Christ, and finding contentment even in suffering. Failing to process pruning properly leads to bitterness that poisons ourselves and others. Instead, we must recognize that God's pruning aims to make us more beautiful and fruitful for His glory, developing in us a deeper dependence on the life-giving vine of Christ.

The Fear of Failure, Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0100

The Fear of Failure, Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 14th September 2025

Passage: John 14:25-31

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The sermon emphasizes that believers need not fear failure because Christ's current position with the Father, His foreknowledge of all things, and His victory over the devil provide them with everything they need. The message encourages followers to prioritize Christ's glory above their own comfort and preferences, trusting in His finished work and ongoing intercession. By remembering Christ's sacrifice and triumph, believers can live with confidence, knowing that even in their failures, they are covered by His blood and empowered by His Spirit.

The Fear of Failure, Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0100

The Fear of Failure, Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 7th September 2025

Passage: John 14:25-31

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Jesus addresses our fear of failure by promising the Holy Spirit as our Helper. In John 14:25-31, He assures His anxious disciples that the Spirit will teach them and bring His words to remembrance. This promise means we can trust Scripture and experience the Spirit's illumination when reading God's Word. Jesus also leaves us with His peace - both peace with God through reconciliation and His personal peace that transcends circumstances. This peace doesn't necessarily change our situations but transforms how we face them, allowing us to overcome our fears and live faithfully.

Help from On High Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Help from On High Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 24th August 2025

Passage: John 14:15-24

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In John 14:15-24, Jesus makes a profound promise to send the Holy Spirit as our Helper - a divine companion whose role encompasses being our advocate, comforter, counselor, and strengthener. This Helper is specifically called the Spirit of Truth, a significant designation in a world where deception abounds and competing philosophies vie for our attention. The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus (who is the Truth) to believers, helping them discern which way is truly aligned with Christ's teachings. Jesus makes a clear distinction that the world cannot receive this Spirit because it neither sees nor knows Him. This means that worldly wisdom and philosophies, while potentially containing elements of truth, will ultimately lead astray because they reject the ultimate source of Truth. Christians are called to exercise discernment when encountering ideas about sexuality, politics, success, and entertainment, filtering everything through Scripture with the Spirit's help. Practically, the Holy Spirit provides strength when facing temptation, comfort when standing alone for truth, guidance in difficult decisions, and conviction when believers stray from God's path. Unlike in Old Testament times, believers today have the permanent indwelling of the Spirit who won't leave them. The challenge for Christians is to intentionally access this help through prayer and Scripture rather than relying on worldly wisdom, pausing before major decisions to specifically seek the Spirit's guidance.

Help from on High, Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Help from on High, Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 17th August 2025

Passage: John 14:15-24

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In John 14:15-24, Jesus makes a profound statement four times: 'If you love me, keep my commandments.' This represents a significant shift in understanding discipleship. Jesus isn't demanding cold obedience; He's inviting us into a relationship where obedience naturally flows from love. This mirrors God's approach in the Old Testament, where He first delivered Israel from slavery before asking for their exclusive devotion.Jesus came to deliver us from something far worse than human oppression - the tyranny of sin. He did this out of love, and now He asks for our love in return. This love isn't merely emotional but involves choosing Him as our supreme delight. Yet Jesus knows we can't keep His commandments through our own efforts, which is why He promised the Holy Spirit - another helper of the same kind as Himself. The Spirit takes up residence within believers, enabling us to follow Jesus despite our imperfections.True disciples are those overwhelmed by Jesus' love and beauty, who recognize they don't deserve His mercy but have received it anyway. This creates a genuine desire to follow Him, not out of obligation but out of love. When Jesus calls us to obey, our response should be, 'Yes, Lord, but help me,' acknowledging both our willingness and our need for His strength.

Greater Works, Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Greater Works, Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 13th July 2025

Passage: John 14:12-14

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Move beyond personal petitions to prayers that stir heaven. Discover how saturating your heart with God's word and aligning your desires with His can ignite a grander purpose, extending Christ's kingdom across nations and impacting lives.

Greater Works, Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Greater Works, Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 6th July 2025

Passage: John 14:12-14

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Jesus' promise in John 14:12-14 about believers doing 'greater works' isn't primarily about performing more spectacular miracles than He did. Rather, these greater works refer to the expanded scope and reach of the gospel message after Jesus' ascension and the Holy Spirit's coming. While Jesus' ministry was geographically limited, believers throughout history have spread His message worldwide. Every Christian can participate in these greater works through faith in Jesus and availability to be used by Him in everyday life. The focus isn't on miraculous powers but on the spiritual transformation that occurs when people encounter Jesus through our witness.

Like Father, Like Son

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Like Father, Like Son

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 1st June 2025

Passage: John 14:7-11

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The doctrine of the Trinity stands at the heart of Christian faith, not as an optional theological concept but as essential to understanding who God truly is. Jesus teaches in John 14 that to know Him is to know the Father, and to see Him is to see the Father working. Within the Trinity, there are three distinct divine persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who are one God, equal in power and glory, yet distinguished by their personal properties.Throughout history, misunderstandings like Modalism, Marcionism, and Arianism have distorted this truth. These heresies continue today in various forms. The Trinity matters for three crucial reasons: it differentiates Christianity from all other religions; without it, we have no Savior capable of bridging the gap between God and humanity; and without the Trinity, God would be an impersonal dictator rather than the eternal loving community Scripture reveals. The Trinity shapes every aspect of Christian experience—our prayers, evangelism, blessings, and salvation are all Trinitarian in nature. When we embrace this truth, we find ourselves 'Trinitarian-gripped'—securely held in the love of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit regardless of life's circumstances.

Nobody But Jesus, Part 3 (Life)

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 25 May 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Nobody But Jesus, Part 3 (Life)

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 25th May 2025

Passage: John 14:4-6

Nobody Like Jesus Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 04 May 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Nobody Like Jesus Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 4th May 2025

Passage: John 14:4-6

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In today's world where truth is often viewed as subjective and personal, the concept of absolute truth - universal principles that remain constant across all times and cultures - becomes increasingly significant. This tension between relative and absolute truth directly impacts our ability to distinguish right from wrong and establish justice in society. When we abandon absolute truth, we risk becoming wise in our own eyes, creating arbitrary rules that lead to inconsistent living.Jesus positions himself as the embodiment of reality and the ultimate source of truth about God, humanity, creation, and morality. He offers not just guidance, but serves as the exclusive path to understanding God and finding genuine wisdom. When people reject this absolute truth, they inevitably turn to idols - anything that provides temporary identity or satisfaction. This leads to a process of dehumanization as people become like what they worship, choosing paths that lead to spiritual decay rather than life.The solution lies in examining our sources of truth and aligning our lives with the unchanging principles found in Jesus. This involves identifying and removing idols that compete for supremacy in our lives and consciously building our foundation on solid, unchanging truth rather than shifting cultural perspectives.

Nobody Like Jesus Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Nobody Like Jesus Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 27th April 2025

Passage: John 14:4-6

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In a world filled with diverse spiritual paths, Jesus stands unique as the definitive way to God. Unlike other religious leaders who merely pointed to a path, Jesus declares Himself as the path itself. He describes two distinct routes in life: a wide, easy path leading to destruction and a narrow, challenging path leading to life. This narrow path requires genuine repentance, faith, and the willingness to leave behind old patterns while walking alongside other believers. Jesus uniquely offers personal transformation, forgiveness of sins, and eternal life through a direct relationship with Him.

Help for Troubled Hearts

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Help for Troubled Hearts

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 13th April 2025

Passage: John 14:1-3

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Life's challenges and troubles can leave our hearts feeling disturbed and agitated, a reality Jesus directly addresses with compassion and wisdom. He acknowledges that as humans living in a fallen world among sinners, trouble is inevitable. Our hearts - encompassing our mind, will, and emotions - often become stirred up and confused, especially when we feel alone in our struggles.Jesus provides two essential remedies for troubled hearts: faith in God and hope in His promises. Through faith, we learn to trust Him even when outcomes are uncertain and to submit to His care rather than trying to save ourselves. Through hope, we gain confidence in the eternal home He's preparing. Jesus reveals that in His Father's house there are many rooms, and He is personally preparing a place for each believer. This inheritance is imperishable and protected by God's power.The practical application involves speaking truth to ourselves about God's promises, remembering that Jesus wants us and has secured our eternal future. By focusing on our heavenly reservation, we can gain a new perspective on current struggles and find peace in knowing that Jesus has overcome the world.

Don't Get Cocky

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Don't Get Cocky

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 6th April 2025

Passage: John 13:36-38

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Spiritual overconfidence emerges as a subtle yet dangerous threat to our faith journey, often surfacing during moments of perceived spiritual strength. This mindset manifests in three critical ways: a lack of understanding about our spiritual maturity, boasting about our spiritual capabilities, and becoming deaf to divine warnings. Peter's story of denying Jesus serves as a powerful illustration of how this overconfidence can lead to significant spiritual failures.The danger intensifies when we begin focusing on our achievements rather than Christ's work in us, comparing ourselves to others instead of measuring against Christ's standard, and relying on our own strength rather than God's grace. Protection against this spiritual pitfall requires intentional actions: establishing accountability partnerships, memorizing Scripture, maintaining a consistent prayer life, and most importantly, recognizing that true spiritual strength comes from complete dependence on Christ. The key to spiritual growth lies not in self-confidence but in acknowledging our weaknesses and allowing Christ's power to work through us.

Glory in His Love Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Glory in His Love Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 16th March 2025

Passage: John 13:31-35

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Divine love stands apart from human love through its holy, sovereign, and unchanging nature. God's love cannot be separated from His other attributes - it is simultaneously just, righteous, merciful, and all-knowing. Jesus exemplified this divine love through His life and death, demonstrating humble service, ultimate sacrifice, and unconditional forgiveness.To love like Christ means embracing a transformative way of life that includes forgiving others as we've been forgiven, serving sacrificially across all barriers, and treating fellow believers as family. This love requires us to share in others' joys and pains while refusing to let anything divide the body of Christ. Forgiveness plays a central role in Christian love, as it reflects Christ's forgiveness of us, frees us from bitterness, and maintains unity in the church. This supernatural love can only be lived out through God's power and brings glory to Him when demonstrated in community.

Glory in His Love - Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Glory in His Love - Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 9th March 2025

Passage: John 13:31-35

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God's glory, known in Hebrew as kavod, signifies the weightiness and significance of His perfect nature. This encompasses all of His divine attributes - from His absolute holiness and sovereignty to His boundless love and mercy. Jesus demonstrated this glory most powerfully through His journey to the cross, where what appeared as weakness to the world became the ultimate display of God's power and victory over darkness.In our daily lives, we can experience this same transformative glory through intentional pursuit of God's presence. This involves more than just following religious principles; it requires genuine relationship and complete surrender to His will. When we remove the obstacles that block our view of God's glory - whether they're distractions, idols, or misplaced priorities - we position ourselves to encounter His presence in profound ways.Just as God's glory sustained Moses through challenging leadership moments, it can sustain us through our own difficulties. The key lies in maintaining our focus on Christ, regularly engaging with Scripture not as a duty but as a means of encountering God, and consistently surrendering our lives to His purpose. This glory-focused approach to faith transforms our daily experiences and empowers us to face life's challenges with divine strength.

Great Good Out of Great Evil

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Great Good Out of Great Evil

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 2nd March 2025

Passage: John 13:18-30

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The relationship between Jesus and Judas provides deep insights into handling betrayal and trusting God's sovereign plan. Despite knowing Judas would ultimately betray Him, Jesus chose him as a disciple, served him, and taught him alongside the others. This demonstrates both Jesus' divine nature and His extraordinary capacity for love, even toward those who would harm Him.Judas's betrayal stemmed primarily from disillusionment rather than just financial gain. He likely joined Jesus' movement expecting worldly power and revolution, but became disillusioned when Jesus taught servant leadership and loving enemies instead. This reminds us that people sometimes join religious communities with ulterior motives, their hearts remaining distant despite outward appearances.The account teaches us valuable lessons about handling betrayal in our own lives. Rather than succumbing to bitterness, we're called to trust God's ability to bring good from evil circumstances. Just as God used Judas's betrayal to accomplish salvation, He can work through painful situations in our lives for greater purposes we may not yet understand. The key is maintaining faith in God's control while examining our own hearts rather than focusing on others' failures.

Improving Your Serve

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Improving Your Serve

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 23rd February 2025

Passage: John 13:1-17

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Jesus demonstrated the ultimate model of servant leadership by washing His disciples' feet, a task considered beneath even Jewish slaves. This profound act revealed that authentic leadership emerges through serving others rather than seeking authority or status. His service flowed from a place of complete security in His identity and demonstrated a love that persisted despite His followers' failures and weaknesses.This example challenges common perceptions about leadership and service. While society often emphasizes leadership positions, Jesus showed that true influence comes through humble service. His actions teach that we must first receive His cleansing grace before we can effectively serve others. This includes both the initial cleansing of salvation and the ongoing process of confession and forgiveness. When we grasp our identity as God's children and experience His unconditional love, we're empowered to serve others without feeling diminished.

Don't Ignore Jesus

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 09 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Don't Ignore Jesus

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 9th February 2025

Passage: John 12:44-50

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Understanding true faith in Jesus Christ requires recognizing Him as more than just a gentle teacher or spiritual guide. He is God's representative on earth, and our response to Him is our response to God Himself. This means that authentic faith demands complete devotion and transformation of our lives, not just mental agreement or cultural acceptance.Many people reject or ignore Jesus because they prioritize human approval over God's, prefer to keep their faith private, or treat His words as mere suggestions rather than divine commands. Even believers can fall into the trap of ignoring Jesus by not consulting Scripture for important decisions, trusting worldly wisdom over biblical truth, or relying on feelings rather than God's Word.The consequences of ignoring Jesus are profound and eternal. Those who reject Him remain in spiritual darkness, and His Word will judge people on the last day. True faith must produce evidence through active obedience, public identification with Christ, and complete submission to His authority in all areas of life.

Glory Blindness

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Glory Blindness

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 24th November 2024

Passage: John 12:36-43

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In John 12:36-43, we explore the concept of spiritual blindness and the glory of Jesus. Glory blindness is a spiritual condition where sin and worldly allure obscure our vision of Jesus' true glory. Symptoms include rejecting truth and experiencing God's judgment. The cure involves a transformative encounter with Jesus' majesty, daily reflection on His glory, prayer, scripture, and service. This passage challenges us to examine our faith and seek a deeper understanding of God's glory.

Lifted Up, Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Lifted Up, Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 17th November 2024

Passage: John 11:27-36

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In John 12:27-36, Jesus speaks about His upcoming crucifixion, expressing His troubled soul yet reaffirming His commitment to glorify God. This passage delves into the spiritual battle between light and darkness, illustrating Jesus' victory over sin and Satan through the cross. The divine voice from heaven reassures Jesus' mission, emphasizing that God is with us in our crises. Jesus' crucifixion, though seen as a curse, becomes a symbol of redemption and healing for believers. The passage also highlights the urgency of believing in Jesus as the true light and encourages us to reflect on how we can glorify God in our own crises. By lifting up Jesus, we experience His strength and become beacons of His light in a dark world.

Lifted Up, Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Lifted Up, Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 10th November 2024

Passage: John 12:27-36

-------------------

In today's message, we explored the intersection of crisis and faith through John 12:27-36. Jesus, facing the impending crucifixion, reveals His troubled soul but remains focused on glorifying the Father. This teaches us that in our moments of crisis, our primary goal should be to glorify God. The Father's voice from heaven affirms Jesus' mission, reminding us that God is present in our crises, ready to affirm and confirm us when we seek to glorify Him. The sermon also highlights the importance of spiritual discernment, standing on God's Word, and engaging with the church community for support and accountability. By following Jesus' example, we can navigate our crises with faith and find affirmation from the Father.

Lifted Up, Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Lifted Up, Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 27th October 2024

Passage: John 12:27-36

-------------------

Jesus' passion centered on the cross and glorifying His Father. He faced immense emotional distress, knowing He would bear the sins of humanity and endure God's wrath. Yet, He remained focused on His mission to bring salvation and glorify God. Similarly, we encounter moments where our desires conflict with God's will. In these times, prayer and self-examination are essential. By reflecting on our passions and aligning them with God's purpose, we can navigate life's challenges with faith and grace. This week, take time to pray and seek God's guidance, ensuring your desires glorify Him.

Death and Glory Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Death and Glory Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 3rd December 2023

Passage: John 12:20-27

Death and Glory

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Death and Glory

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 12th November 2023

Passage: John 12:20-26

The Spectacular King

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The Spectacular King

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 5th November 2023

Passage: John 12:12-19

The Beautiful Aroma Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The Beautiful Aroma Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 29th October 2023

Passage: John 12:1-11

The Beautiful Aroma - Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 22 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0100

The Beautiful Aroma - Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 22nd October 2023

Passage: John 12:1-11

The Beautiful Aroma

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0100

The Beautiful Aroma

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 24th September 2023

Passage: John 11:45-12:11

The Lord of Life Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0100

The Lord of Life Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 17th September 2023

Passage: John 11:28-57

The Lord of Life Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0100

The Lord of Life Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 10th September 2023

The Lord of Life Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0100

The Lord of Life Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 3rd September 2023

Passage: John 11:1-27

The Inconvenient Truth

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0100

The Inconvenient Truth

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 27th August 2023

Passage: John 10:30-42

Safe in the Pen

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0100

Safe in the Pen

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 13th August 2023

Passage: John 10:22-30

Life in the Pen #4: Particular Sheep

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0100

Life in the Pen #4: Particular Sheep

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 9th July 2023

Passage: John 10:11-21

Life in the Pen #3: The Good Shepherd Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0100

Life in the Pen #3: The Good Shepherd Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 2nd July 2023

Passage: John 10:11-21

Life in the Pen #2: The Good Shepherd Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0100

Life in the Pen #2: The Good Shepherd Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 25th June 2023

Passage: John 10:11-21

Life in the Pen #1: The Good Life

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 08:30:00 +0100

Life in the Pen #1: The Good Life

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 11th June 2023

Passage: John 10:7-11

The True vs. False Shepherd

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 08:30:00 +0100

The True vs. False Shepherd

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 4th June 2023

Passage: John 10:1-9

When Taking the Stand Pt 2: Faith Makes Sense

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 28 May 2023 08:30:00 +0100

When Taking the Stand Pt 2: Faith Makes Sense

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 28th May 2023

Passage: John 9:24-41

When Called to the Stand Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 21 May 2023 08:30:00 +0100

When Called to the Stand Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Date: 21st May 2023

Passage: John 9:13-23

Who Turned On the Light? Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 07 May 2023 08:30:00 +0100

Who Turned On the Light? Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 7th May 2023

Passage: John 9:1-12

Who Turned On the Light? Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 08:30:00 +0100

Who Turned On the Light? Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 30th April 2023

Passage: John 9:1-12

The G.O.A.T.

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 08:30:00 +0100

The G.O.A.T.

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 23rd April 2023

Passage: John 8:48-59

Who's Yo Daddy

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 08:30:00 +0100

Who's Yo Daddy

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 26th March 2023

Passage: John 8:37-47

Oh Freedom! Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Oh Freedom! Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 19th March 2023

Passage: John 8:31-38

Oh Freedom, Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Oh Freedom, Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 26th February 2023

Passage: John 8:31-36

Oh Freedom! Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Oh Freedom! Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 19th February 2023

Passage: John 8:31-36

The Warning Light

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 08:30:00 +0000

The Warning Light

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 12th February 2023

Passage: John 8:21-30

Light of the World - Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Light of the World - Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 22nd January 2023

Passage: John 8:12-20

Light of the World - Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 15 Jan 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Light of the World - Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 15th January 2023

Passage: John 8:12-20

Light of the World - Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 08 Jan 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Light of the World - Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 8th January 2023

Passage: John 8:12-20

Scandalous Grace

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 08:30:00 +0000

Scandalous Grace

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 20th November 2022

Passage: John 7:37-52

Got Thirst - Part 3

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 13 Nov 2022 08:30:00 +0000

Got Thirst - Part 3

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 13th November 2022

Passage: John 7:37-52

Got Thirst - Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 08:30:00 +0000

Got Thirst - Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 6th November 2022

Passage: John 7:37-52

Got Thirst - Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 08:30:00 +0000

Got Thirst - Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 30th October 2022

Passage: John 7:37-52

Jesus, Most Wanted

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 23 Oct 2022 08:30:00 +0100

Jesus, Most Wanted

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 23rd October 2022

Passage: John 7:25-36

Who's In Charge? Part 2

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 09 Oct 2022 08:30:00 +0100

Who's In Charge? Part 2

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 9th October 2022

Passage: John 7:14-24

-------------------

Message starts at 48:30

Who's In Charge, Part 1

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 02 Oct 2022 08:30:00 +0100

Who's In Charge, Part 1

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 2nd October 2022

Passage: John 7:14-25

-------------------

Message begins at 41:49

Timing is Everything

Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor — Sun, 25 Sep 2022 08:30:00 +0100

Timing is Everything

Series: The Jesus We Need to Know

Preacher: Kevin Smith, Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning

Date: 25th September 2022

Passage: John 7:1-13