Christ Church Fareham Sermons Christ Church Fareham

This sermon reflects on the unique and unparalleled service of Jesus Christ. He who was and is God incarnate, lowered himself across his life, culminating in his death on the cross. This loving act of service meets the greatest needs of his followers, freedom from sin and death.

God calls his beloved followers to use their freedom to imitate his perfect example. This isn't because God has a need that our service fulfils. Instead, it is befitting that as followers of Christ, we would obediently seek to imitate him. Furthermore, as we do, the promise is that we will received blessedness either in this life or in eternity. 

Thus, it is a privilege for a follower of Christ, to use their gifts/skills/capabilities to joyfully serve inside and outside of the Church wherever possible. 

This sermon encourages us to see all children as they truly are, a blessing and heritage from God. They are created by God, for a Godly purpose, and sent by him to us.

All children will come under attack from the devil. He will seek to steal their time and that of their parents, grandparents, and role models. He will also seek to normalise harmful behaviours and practices in their lives.

However, we need not fear, because the grace of God teaches us & our children to say no. So, we must cry out for this grace to be poured lavishly on us and them. We must also take our responsibility seriously to teach them about God and his perfect ways.

This sermon is a timely encouragement to lay hold of the glorious and certain hope that believers have with Jesus' second coming. 

For, as scripture makes clear Jesus will surely come again. He will return in majesty and glory when he does. And his return will effect everything and every part of life as we know it.

Therefore, we should long for Jesus' return, as his return will usher in the best that is yet to come! 

This sermon unpacking these verses answers two important questions, Who is Jesus? and What does Jesus command us to do?

So, Who is Jesus? Jesus is truly God as his victorious resurrection testifies. He is also King reigning in power and authority now. Jesus is also with his disciples and all his followers until the end of the age through the Holy Spirit.

What does Jesus command us to do? With the confidence of King Jesus being with us we are commanded to make disciples of all nations. We who have been taught the ways of Jesus and been baptised are commanded to go & do likewise. This is a command for all followers of Jesus done in his strength, power, and authority. 

It is a great joy to co-labour with Jesus in this exciting commission!

What are you scared of? How does fear stop you from being yourself? How does fear rob you of the joy of knowing God and of your certain eternity with him?

This passage and the Easter Sunday narrative is filled with fear. There is evident fear of reprisal, of the unknown, and of terror. These are all kinds of fear that restrict, limit, and do harm.

However, in this narrative there is a beautiful fear of wonder. A fear mixed with joy displayed by the women that encountered the angel at the tomb. The fear of knowing that we are in the presence of Jesus Christ the majestic death defeating conqueror. Yet, this same Jesus Christ, is simultaneously merciful, gentle, loving and compassionate. He is by the side of his believers throughout their lives by the Holy Spirit which is why it can be said to them "Do not be afraid."

It is this fearlessness that led these followers and can lead us to be empowered to do mighty works for God. 

Through a mixture of stories from the bible, modern Britain and his own life, Chris reminds us that Jesus Changes Lives!

He did it 2,000 years ago and he does it today. Jesus is not looking for perfect individuals. But instead imperfect individuals, who are willing to to acknowledge their imperfections, and receive his life transforming gift of grace.

Once this gift is received, life is never the same, and always filled with the most fulfilling & glorious purpose.