Riverlife Messages

Riverlife Baptist Church

Weekly messages from Riverlife Baptist Church in Brisbane, Australia. Riverlife is a church that desires to be a family embracing the Father's presence, releasing empowered people to declare and demonstrate Christ's kingdom.

  1. Vision 2026: Grow Deeper, Serve Together

    FEB 10

    Vision 2026: Grow Deeper, Serve Together

    Ever noticed how trees just seem to have it sorted? They're not rushing about, yet they're constantly growing, providing shade, and bearing fruit. This message unpacks how God invites us to be like those trees—deeply rooted, firmly established, and fruitful in every season. Diving into Psalm 1's picture of the blessed person who delights in God's Word, this isn't about ticking religious boxes; it's about training our attention and affection on Jesus so we're transformed from the inside out. The message explores three key areas for the year ahead: spiritual renewal (putting down deep roots through practices like prayer and fasting), discipleship (growing strong through intentional formation), and kingodm family and community (serving together to bless others and glorify God). As we look forward to the Lenten season to our community blitz and more, there are practical invitations to grow deeper and serve together; not because we have to, but because that's how God designed us to flourish. The challenge? Start with one thing. Ask God what your first step is, and trust that as we grow together, He'll make us stronger than we could ever be alone. Bible Verses Referenced: Psalm 1:1-42 Corinthians 3:16-18Ephesians 3:14-19Isaiah 61:1-4John 15 CONNECT WITH RIVERLIFE CHURCH HERE AT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverlifebaptistchurchFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverlifeBaptistChurchWebsite: https://riverlifechurch.org.au

    39 min
  2. Faith Habits: Witness

    JAN 27

    Faith Habits: Witness

    Ever felt like the church has a bit of a PR problem? Between 'bus ministry' confessions and decreasing trust in institutions, it's fair to say we're navigating some choppy waters. But here's the thing: God's not surprised by any of this, and He's still calling us to be His witnesses. This message unpacks what a Christlike witness actually looks like—spoiler alert, it's less about street evangelism with a Bible in hand and more about authentically living out Christ's love in everyday moments. Drawing from 1 Peter 2:9-12 and Romans 12:9-21, we discover that being a "chosen race" and "royal priesthood" means our lives should demonstrate God's character in tangible ways. The challenge? Living counter-culturally by blessing those who curse us, feeding our enemies, and choosing peace over being right. It's about becoming communities of hospitality in a culture of hostility—whether that's inviting a neighbour over for the cricket (or tennis!) or simply praying for that person you struggle with. The message reminds us that people judge our message by how we live our lives. When our conduct matches our confession, we become credible witnesses who help others catch a glimpse of the God who loves them. Bible Verses Referenced: Genesis 12:1-3Luke 1:1-41 Peter 2:9-12Romans 12:9-21Colossians 4:5-6Matthew 5:13-161 Corinthians 11:1Hebrews 1:1-32 Corinthians 5:18-20 CONNECT WITH RIVERLIFE CHURCH HERE AT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverlifebaptistchurchFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverlifeBaptistChurchWebsite: https://riverlifechurch.org.au

    39 min
  3. Faith Habits: Generosity

    JAN 27

    Faith Habits: Generosity

    Ever tried bargaining at a street market? Most of us are pretty ordinary at it (especially if you're anything like Pastor Petrea in Thailand!). But here's the thing—we often bring that same bargaining mindset into our relationship with God, and it's robbing us of the joy that comes from true surrender. In this seventh instalment of the Faith Habit series, we explore the habit of Generosity, looking at three ways we live with God: bargaining, obedience, and generosity. The Macedonian church shows us what it looks like to give generously even in severe trials, not because they had heaps to give, but because they'd first given themselves to the Lord. The message unpacks how the rich young ruler walked away sad because he couldn't let go of his comfort, whilst the poor widow gave everything with joy. Generosity isn't waiting for God to prompt you—it's actively asking Him, "What can I do?" It starts with obedience (like tithing our first fruits), but goes far beyond to surrendering our time, talents, and treasure completely. The challenge? Stop bargaining with the Creator of the universe and start trusting Him with your whole heart. Because He's already given everything for you. Bible Verses Referenced: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9Matthew 19:16-22Mark 10Mark 12:41-44Luke 18Luke 21 CONNECT WITH RIVERLIFE CHURCH HERE AT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverlifebaptistchurchFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverlifeBaptistChurchWebsite: https://riverlifechurch.org.au

    38 min
  4. Faith Habits: Scripture

    JAN 20

    Faith Habits: Scripture

    We're a church that loves one book—but what are we actually doing with it? In this message, we explore the difference between reading Scripture to know Scripture versus reading it to know Jesus. It's a crucial distinction that changes everything. The average Aussie watches nearly three hours of telly a day (no judgment—this is a safe space!). But what if we invested even a fraction of that time into the practice that actually nourishes our souls? This isn't about guilt-tripping anyone into a rigid Bible-reading schedule. It's about discovering how Scripture serves as a diving board into the deeper things of God. The message tackles some important questions: Is the Bible just a manual for getting life right? How do we avoid replacing a relationship with the living God with a relationship with the written Word? And what does it actually mean to let Scripture "read us" rather than just us reading it? You'll discover how Scripture reveals God's character, shows us our need for redemption, and ultimately points us to Jesus. Plus, practical tips for engaging with the Bible whether you're a seasoned disciple or just starting out. Bible Verses Referenced:  Philippians 4:6-72 Timothy 3:14-17John 1:1John 5:39Matthew 4:4Psalm 1:1-4Colossians 3:16Preachind on Sunday 18 January, 2026. CONNECT WITH RIVERLIFE CHURCH HERE AT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverlifebaptistchurchFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverlifeBaptistChurchWebsite: https://riverlifechurch.org.au

    32 min

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Weekly messages from Riverlife Baptist Church in Brisbane, Australia. Riverlife is a church that desires to be a family embracing the Father's presence, releasing empowered people to declare and demonstrate Christ's kingdom.