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In this Resurrection Sunday sermon, Robin Kinstead reflects on Gospel of Mark 16 and Book of Lamentations 5 to present the full message of the gospel—from the suffering of the cross to the victory of the empty tomb and the hope of the eternal throne. He explains how Jesus’ death deals with sin through substitution, taking the punishment humanity deserves, and how the resurrection proves that death has been defeated and God’s promises remain true. The sermon emphasises that the resurrection is not just a historical event but the foundation of present hope and future restoration, pointing to a promised place with God described in Book of Revelation. Listeners are invited to respond personally to Jesus—whether by trusting him for the first time, returning after drifting, or sharing the message—recognising that the gospel is one unified story of forgiveness, new life, and eternal belonging. Questions to Think About What does Jesus’ death on the cross reveal about both the seriousness of sin and the depth of God’s love? How does the resurrection change the way you think about death and the future? In what ways do you personally need to be “restored” to God right now? What does it mean that Jesus has prepared a place (a “seat”) for those who trust in him? Who could you share the message “Jesus is risen” with this week, and how might you do it? Three Things to Take Away Jesus’ death brings real forgiveness—sin is dealt with fully through his sacrifice. Jesus’ resurrection proves that death is defeated and God’s promises can be trusted. The gospel invites a response: to trust, return, and share the hope of new life and eternal belonging.

In this Good Friday sermon, Shane Dirks unpacks Mark 15 and the crucifixion of Jesus, presenting the cross as the decisive moment where Jesus, the Son of God, secures a place for people in God’s family. Through the eyewitness testimony of the women, the motivation of Jesus’ own words, and the perspective of the centurion, the sermon highlights the historical reality of Jesus’ death and its meaning as a “ransom” for humanity’s sin. Shane explains that Jesus willingly enters the battle against sin and death, not as a victim but as a victorious King who gives his life to rescue others. Listeners are invited to consider the evidence, understand the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice, and respond personally to the offer of salvation—symbolised as having a “seat” secured by Christ for eternity. Questions to Think About What do the eyewitness accounts (especially the women) reveal about the reliability of the crucifixion story? How does Jesus’ description of his death as a “ransom” shape your understanding of the cross? In what ways do you see the effects of sin and brokenness in your own life or the world? Which perspective do you most relate to—the soldiers, the women, or the centurion—and why? What would it mean for you personally to accept the “seat” Jesus has secured through his death? Three Things to Take Away Jesus’ death is a real, historical event with reliable eyewitness testimony. The cross is an act of grace where Jesus pays the ransom for humanity’s sin. Each person must respond to Jesus—reject him, investigate further, or trust him as the saving King.

In this Resurrection Sunday sermon, Ruth Smith explores Mark 16:1–8 and Lamentations 5, explaining why the resurrection of Jesus is the most significant event in history. She connects humanity’s deepest pursuits—achievement, love, and control over life and death—to their ultimate fulfilment in Jesus, who alone conquers death and offers eternal life. The sermon highlights key implications of the resurrection: it confirms Jesus’ holiness and God’s justice, guarantees eternal life for believers, provides hope beyond death, brings freedom from sin and guilt, assures believers they are never abandoned, and establishes Jesus as the reigning King who will complete God’s plan for the world. Listeners are encouraged to recognise the reality of the resurrection and respond by placing their trust in Jesus, who secures a future of restored life with God. Questions to Think About Why does the resurrection of Jesus matter for understanding who he truly is? How does the resurrection address humanity’s desire to overcome death? In what ways does the promise of eternal life shape how you view your present life? Do you live as though you are fully forgiven and free from guilt in Jesus? What difference does it make to believe that Jesus is actively ruling and involved in your life today? Three Things to Take Away The resurrection proves that Jesus is holy, God is just, and death has been defeated. Through Jesus, believers receive eternal life, forgiveness, and lasting hope beyond death. Jesus reigns as King and guarantees a secure future where God’s plan will be fully realised.

In this sermon, Ruth Smith explores the section of the Nicene Creed focused on God the Son, drawing from Hebrews 1 to explain the full identity and significance of Jesus. She unpacks key theological truths such as Jesus being eternally begotten, fully God, of the same essence as the Father, and active in creation and sustaining the universe. The sermon highlights the importance of rightly understanding Jesus—not as a created being or merely a great teacher, but as the eternal Son who became human for salvation, died, rose again, and now reigns in heaven. Ruth emphasises that these truths are not just technical details but foundational to Christian faith and worship, challenging listeners to consider whether they have too small a view of Jesus and encouraging them to continue growing in awe, trust, and devotion to him. Questions to Think About What does it mean for Jesus to be “of one being with the Father,” and why is that important? How does understanding Jesus as eternal and fully God shape your view of his life and work? In what ways might you have a “too small” view of Jesus in your thinking or daily life? How does Jesus’ role in creation and sustaining the world impact how you relate to him? What practical steps can you take to grow in your understanding and appreciation of who Jesus is? Three Things to Take Away Jesus is fully God, eternal, and equal with the Father, not a created being or lesser figure. The work of Jesus—his incarnation, death, resurrection, and reign—is central to salvation and ongoing life. Growing in faith involves continually deepening our understanding and awe of who Jesus truly is.

In this sermon, Shane Dirks explores the Nicene Creed alongside Hebrews 1 to explain the identity of Jesus as fully God and fully human. He outlines how the Creed was formed to guard against false teachings and emphasises that Jesus is “God from God, light from light,” eternally begotten and not created. The message highlights the significance of the incarnation—God becoming truly human—showing that Jesus both reveals God perfectly and understands human weakness. Shane explains that through Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension, humanity is reconciled to God, and access to Him is made possible without intermediaries. The sermon ultimately calls listeners to recognise that Jesus is central to knowing God and that who we believe Jesus to be shapes both our present faith and eternal future. Questions to Think About Why is it important to understand that Jesus is both fully God and fully human? How does the Nicene Creed help clarify what Christians believe about Jesus? What difference does it make that Jesus can both reveal God and relate to human weakness? How do misunderstandings about Jesus (past or present) affect faith and salvation? In what ways does believing in Jesus change how you approach God personally? Three Things to Take Away Jesus is fully God and fully human, and this truth is essential to Christian faith. Through Jesus, we can truly know God and approach Him with confidence. What we believe about Jesus has eternal significance and shapes our relationship with God.

In this sermon, Shane Dirks introduces a new series on the Nicene Creed by exploring its purpose and significance for the Christian faith. Drawing from Isaiah 40 and the opening line of the Creed, he explains how the early church developed the Creed to clearly identify the true God in response to false teaching, particularly around the nature of Jesus. Shane emphasises that the Creed serves to both define who God is—one, eternal, almighty Creator—and to unite believers across time and cultures. The message highlights the importance of right belief (“we believe”) over mere ritual, emotion, or cultural expression, calling listeners to trust in and correctly identify the one true God who reveals himself as Father and sustains his people. Questions to Think About Why was it necessary for the early church to clearly define who God is through the Nicene Creed? How does the statement “we believe” shape the way you understand your faith? What are some modern ways people might “misidentify” God today? How does knowing God as almighty Creator affect your trust in him? In what ways does the Creed unite Christians despite differences in practice or opinion? Three Things to Take Away The Nicene Creed helps clearly identify the true God and guard against false beliefs. Christian faith is grounded in what we believe about God, not just feelings or practices. Belief in the one almighty Creator unites God’s people and calls for trust and dependence on him.

In his first sermon at Figtree, Logan Brailey explores Mark 15:1–15, focusing on Jesus’ trial before Pilate and the striking injustice of the event. He highlights how the innocent Jesus is condemned while the guilty Barabbas is set free, revealing the core message of the gospel: the innocent King suffers in place of the guilty. The sermon unpacks Jesus’ silence as fulfillment of prophecy and a sign of his willing submission to God’s plan. Logan explains how this “great exchange” applies to all people, showing that humanity shares in Barabbas’ guilt, yet can receive freedom and new identity as children of God through faith in Jesus. Listeners are challenged to consider their response to this exchange and how they will live in light of the freedom Jesus provides. Questions to Think About What stands out to you about the injustice of Jesus’ trial, and why is it significant? How does Jesus’ silence change your understanding of his identity and mission? In what ways are you like Barabbas, needing Jesus to take your place? What does it mean for you personally to receive the “great exchange” Jesus offers? How can you live differently as someone who has been set free and adopted into God’s family? Three Things to Take Away Jesus is the innocent King who willingly suffers in place of the guilty. Every person shares in the guilt of sin and needs the freedom Jesus provides. Freedom in Christ leads to a new identity and a call to live as children of God.

In tonight’s sermon, Peter Lenehan explores Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17–34, challenging us to consider the true place of wealth, possessions, and ambition in our lives. Peter unpacks Jesus' loving but confronting words, showing that while wealth can easily become an idol, Jesus calls each person to wholehearted discipleship. He reminds us that following Christ is worth any sacrifice, and that our lives must reflect the message we proclaim—that Jesus is better than anything this world can offer. Questions to Think About Has wealth, comfort, or security become an idol in my life? What might Jesus be asking me to surrender in order to follow Him more fully? Does the way I live support or contradict the gospel I proclaim? How can I use the resources God has given me for His kingdom? Am I trusting in my own ability, or in God's power, for salvation and transformation? Three Things to Take Away Jesus lovingly exposes the idols of our hearts so that we can truly follow Him. Wealth is a powerful tool, but a dangerous master if it takes God's place. A life devoted to Jesus will always be worth far more than anything we leave behind.

In this sermon, Ruth Smith explores Mark 10:17–34, focusing on Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler and the challenge of wholehearted discipleship. Ruth highlights that eternal life cannot be earned through good works or obedience, but is received as a gift through faith in Jesus. She also examines the danger of wealth and other idols, reminding us that Jesus calls for our ultimate loyalty, trusting Him not only as Saviour, but also as King over every area of our lives. Questions to Think About Am I trying to earn God's approval, or am I resting in the grace offered through Jesus? What area of my life is hardest for me to fully surrender to Christ? Has wealth, comfort, or security become an idol in my heart? How can I better trust Jesus as both my Saviour and my King? What would it look like for my ultimate loyalty to be found in Jesus alone? Three Things to Take Away Eternal life is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus, not earned by our efforts. Wealth and other good things can easily become idols if they take God's rightful place in our hearts. Jesus calls us to wholehearted discipleship, surrendering every part of our lives to His loving rule.

In this sermon, Peter Lenehan explores Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14) alongside Lamentations 3, focusing on how to trust God in times of deep sorrow and unfulfilled desires. He highlights Jesus’ humanity as he expresses overwhelming distress and honestly asks the Father for another way, while still submitting to God’s will. The message emphasises that faith does not remove sorrow, but allows believers to bring their true feelings to God, remain obedient, and depend on prayer. Through Jesus’ example, listeners are encouraged to trust God even when life does not go as hoped, recognising the importance of honesty, submission, and continual prayer in the Christian life. Questions to Think About How do you usually respond when you don’t get what you deeply want? What does Jesus’ honesty in prayer teach you about how you can approach God? In what areas of your life do you find it hardest to submit to God’s will? How can you hold together both sorrow and faith without feeling like one cancels out the other? What might be preventing you from seeing your need to pray more regularly? Three Things to Take Away Faith and sorrow can coexist—trusting God does not mean pretending everything is okay. God invites honest prayers, even when they express desires that differ from His will. Prayer is essential for faithfulness, reminding us of our dependence on God in every circumstance.

In this sermon, Robin Kinstead explores the trial of Jesus before Pilate in Mark's Gospel, revealing how the crowd's choice of Barabbas over Jesus powerfully displays the heart of the gospel. As the innocent King is rejected and the guilty rebel is released, we see the great exchange at the centre of Christianity—Jesus taking the place of sinners. Robin unpacks how Christ willingly bore our judgment, fulfilled the Old Testament sacrificial system, and calls us to respond by living lives of humble service, forgiveness, and sacrificial love. Questions to Think About Why is Barabbas such a powerful picture of our own situation before God? What does Jesus' willingness to take the place of the guilty teach us about God's love? How does understanding the cross shape the way we view forgiveness? In what practical ways can you serve others as Jesus has served you? Is there someone in your life whom God is calling you to forgive or love more deeply? Three Things to Take Away Jesus, the innocent King, willingly took the place of guilty sinners. The cross demonstrates both God's justice and His extraordinary mercy. Those who have been served by Jesus are called to serve others with joy and sacrifice.

In this sermon, Robin Kinstead explores Mark 12 alongside Psalm 118, focusing on the theme of honouring authority under God. He explains how Jesus confronts the religious leaders who question his authority, using parables and teaching to reveal their rejection of God’s servants and ultimately God’s Son. The message highlights that while earthly authorities—such as governments—are to be respected and honoured, they are secondary to God’s ultimate authority. Robin emphasises that believers are called to live faithfully under both, recognising that they bear God’s image and belong to him, even when following Jesus leads to rejection or hardship. Questions to Think About How do you recognise and respond to God-given authority in your life? What does Jesus’ response about paying taxes teach about balancing earthly and spiritual responsibilities? In what ways might you be tempted to question or reject God’s authority? How can you remain faithful when following Jesus leads to opposition or difficulty? What does it mean to give to God what is God’s in your daily life? Three Things to Take Away God’s authority is ultimate, and all other authority exists under him. Christians are called to honour earthly authorities while remaining loyal to God first. Following Jesus may involve rejection or hardship, but it is part of living faithfully under his rule.

In this sermon, Shane Dirks explores Mark 14 and the events surrounding the Last Supper, highlighting the “ironic” nature of Jesus’ mission. Through moments such as the prepared Passover, the announcement of betrayal during a fellowship meal, and Jesus redefining the covenant in terms of his own body and blood, the message reveals a Messiah who overturns expectations. Shane emphasises that Jesus is fully prepared, willingly heading toward the cross, and is the true and only hope for salvation. The sermon calls listeners to recognise Christ’s authority, trust in his finished work, and respond to his call to watch, believe, and proclaim the good news. Questions to Think About What do the “ironies” in this passage reveal about the true nature of Jesus’ mission? How does Jesus redefining the Passover challenge your understanding of salvation? In what ways might you be relying on something other than Jesus as your hope? How does knowing that Jesus is both willing and prepared to save change your response to him? What does it look like for you to “keep watch” and live in light of the empty tomb? Three Things to Take Away Jesus is fully prepared and in control as he moves toward the cross. Jesus willingly gives his life, showing God’s deep love and grace. Jesus alone is our true hope, calling us to trust him and share the gospel with others.

In this sermon, Peter Lenehan unpacks Mark 14:12–31, focusing on Jesus’ final meal with his disciples in the context of betrayal and denial. He highlights how Jesus knowingly shares the Passover meal with those who will abandon him, revealing his extraordinary grace, patience, and commitment to relationship. The message explains the significance of the Lord’s Supper as a covenant of ongoing friendship through Jesus’ body and blood, while also addressing the seriousness of rejecting him. Listeners are challenged to consider both the warning of betrayal and the invitation to remain at Jesus’ table, responding with honest repentance and lives of sacrificial worship. Questions to Think About How does Jesus’ response to betrayal challenge the way you treat people who let you down? In what ways might you be tempted, like Judas, to value other things above Jesus? What does it mean for you personally to “stay at Jesus’ table”? How comfortable are you with honestly confessing your struggles and failures to God and others? Do you truly believe Jesus is worthy of sacrificial worship—and how is that seen in your life? Three Things to Take Away Jesus shows remarkable grace by inviting those who will fail him into relationship and fellowship. The key question of faith is not “Am I good enough?” but “Is Jesus worthy?” Honest confession and ongoing dependence on Jesus are essential to living a faithful Christian life.

In this sermon, Shane Dirks unpacks Psalm 22 alongside Matthew 27, showing how the psalm’s cry of “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus on the cross. He explores the tension between human emotion and theological truth, encouraging listeners to engage both heart and mind in times of suffering. Rather than focusing on “why me,” the message reframes the question to “why you,” directing attention to God’s character—holy, faithful, and attentive throughout history. The sermon emphasises that while circumstances may not immediately change, a shift in perspective toward dependence on God leads from despair to confident declaration, grounded in the death and resurrection of Jesus. 5 Questions to Think About: When facing hardship, do I focus more on “why me” or on who God is (“why you”)? How do I hold together what I feel and what I know to be true about God? In what ways have I experienced my dependence on God, especially in difficult times? How does Jesus’ use of Psalm 22 on the cross shape my understanding of suffering? What would it look like for me to move from despair to declaration in my current situation? 3 Key Takeaways: Suffering is a normal part of life, but it is meant to draw us into deeper dependence on God. God’s character remains constant—holy, faithful, and attentive—even when circumstances are difficult. True peace comes not from changed circumstances, but from trusting God and declaring His goodness.