Sandyhills Parish Church:Reaching out to the community.

The 'ING' of Christmas - 'King at Christmas"

Matthew 2 narrates several pivotal events surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. It begins with the arrival of wise men from the East in Jerusalem, inquiring about the birth of the "King of the Jews" after observing His star. King Herod and all of Jerusalem become troubled by this news.

The 'ING" of Christmas -"Bringing to Christmas"

Isaiah 9:6-7 is a prophecy about the coming Messiah, describing a child who will be born as a human but possess divine titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. He will bear the government on His shoulders, establishing an eternal kingdom of justice, righteousness, and unending peace on David's throne, fulfilled by God's passionate zeal. Christians widely interpret this as a prophecy of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His dual nature as fully man (born as a child) and fully God (possessing divine titles)

The'ING' of Christmas - 'Proclaiming Christmas'

Luke 1:67-80
Zechariah praises God, characterizing God as powerful and faithful to covenant. In the Bible the promises made between God and God's people are known as covenants; they state or imply a relationship of commitment and obedience.

The 'ING' of Christmas - 'Longing for Christmas'

Genesis 3:1-24
Adam and Eve are perfect in themselves, in their purpose, and in their relationship as husband and wife. Chapter 3 tells the story of that paradise lost; the result of the first willful human sin. The consequences: immediate shame and lifelong separation from their home with God.

The famous story of the Temptation of Adam and Eve touches on several themes. This includes the nature of temptation, the power of free will and what later became known as the teaching of 'Original Sin'. Certain details in the story are explained more fully in the New Testament.

Sitting at his feet

The meaning of Luke 10:38-42 is to highlight the importance of prioritizing spiritual devotion over worldly busyness, using the contrasting sisters Mary and Martha as an example. While Martha was distracted by serving and preparing for Jesus, her sister Mary chose to sit at his feet and listen to his words. Jesus affirmed Mary's choice, calling it the "one thing" and the "good part" that would not be taken away from her, teaching that fellowship and learning from him are more essential than even good works. 

Remember Me

Remembrance Sunday

Luke 23:32-43 describes the crucifixion of Jesus alongside two criminals. While one criminal mocked Jesus, the other rebuked him, acknowledged their own guilt, and asked Jesus to remember him in his kingdom. Jesus responded by promising, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise".

Gospel Fruit

Acts 2:37-41
Some of the Jews are ashamed that they put God's messiah to death. They ask Peter what to do, and he calls them to repent and be baptised in Jesus's name. Then the Holy Spirit will dwell in them too.

Created, Redeemed, Called

Isaiah 43:1-7 is a message of comfort and hope from God to His people, assuring them they are created, redeemed, and protected. God calls them by name, promising His presence through hardship and affirming their value and identity as His. The passage assures them that He will be with them through trials and will bring them back from captivity and disaster. 

Ephesians 2:11-13
We are no longer separated from God because of our sin; Jesus Christ has paid the debt by His Blood that we can be in relationship with Our Father. Do you realise what the Blood has done for us? Do you know the freedom and liberty you have in Christ?

Let go the bars and enter into God's harvest - Part 2

Romans 5:8 is a verse that states, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us". This verse highlights the unconditional and sacrificial nature of God's love, showing that Christ's death was a demonstration of love while humanity was still ungodly and sinful. 

Ephesians 2:10 states that believers are God's "workmanship" or "masterpiece," created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared in advance. The verse emphasizes that these good works are not for earning salvation, which is a gift of grace, but are the purpose for which believers are saved.  

Let go the bars and enter into God's Harvest

Philippians 2:12,13

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.