Messages
We commence the new liturgical year in the season of Advent.
Click the picture to download the message transcript.
2nd Sunday of Easter. Following His resurrection, Jesus appears to the disciples as they are hiding for fear of the Jews. He brings peace and comfort and tells them, “Do not be afraid, I am with you.” He offers the same peace and comfort to each one of us today. Will you believe it? Will you accept it?
Today we celebrate the 3rd Sunday of Easter. Our Gospel reading today tells the experience of the two men walking the road to Emmaus and how Jesus came alongside them and walked with them; they felt in their hearts the burning of hope, but didn’t immediately recognise their companion as the risen Lord. We can experience that hope today as we invite Jesus to walk alongside us each and every day.
Today is Maundy Thursday. Jesus said he has set us an example on how we should treat one another; we should follow in His footsteps and do as He has done.
Good Friday – it’s what God has done for each one of us. All we need to do is accept His amazing gift of life and love.
Resurrection Sunday – He is Risen. What hope this brings us. As we read in 1Corinthians 15:17 “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” How blessed we are to have the confidence that our faith is not futile and that we have forgiveness of our sins, through the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Today we celebrate the 4th Sunday in Lent. The gospel reading from John 9 retells the story of Jesus healing of the man born blind, with the impact of this healing on the religious community. May the Lord open our eyes to see His salvation.
Today we celebrate the 5th Sunday in Lent. The gospel reading from John 11 retells the story of Jesus raising his friend Lazarus back to life. Coupled with the Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of the dry bones, we focus on the necessity of drawing on God’s Spirit of Life.
Today we celebrate Palm Sunday – the Sunday of the Passion. Our gospel reading today is from Matthew 27 which records Jesus’ trial before Pilate. Jesus was ushered into Jerusalem with the waving of palm branches and how quickly the people turned against him and shouted “crucify Him”. How fickle we can be. Help us to remain faithful to Jesus and to always remember that the Servant King rides towards us, and not away from us.
Today we celebrate the 1st Sunday in Lent. The gospel reading from Matthew 4 focuses on Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. He relied on the power of the Holy Spirit to sustain Him, and so can we as we face the trials and temptations of our “wilderness” experiences here on Earth. Have we said Yes to Jesus’ call? If not, today is the day.
Today we celebrate the 2nd Sunday in Lent. Our readings today are all about God calling us to step out. As we step out, often into the unknown, he promises to keep watch over us and calls us to trust in Him. Be challenged today to Go; trusting in God to keep His eyes on you and to lead you.
Today we celebrate the 3rd Sunday in Lent. Our gospel reading is from John 4; the Samaritan woman at the well. Having encountered Jesus, this woman provided a great testimony, a very powerful introduction to Jesus, however the people who heard her testimony came to belief through Jesus’ teachings, not just her testimony. What in our lives are constant reminders of the love and power of Jesus?
Today we celebrate the 4th Sunday after Epiphany. The gospel reading from Matthew 5:1-12 is very well known, commonly referred to as the Sermon on the Mount, or the Beatitudes. Today Rev John West will be speaking to us. There is no message transcript for this week.
Today we celebrate the 5th Sunday after Epiphany. Our gospel reading is from Matthew 5:13-20 which is all about letting our little lights shine for Jesus in whatever situation we find ourselves. Again, today, Rev John West will be speaking to us.
There is no message transcript for this week.
Today we celebrate the 6th Sunday after Epiphany. Our gospel reading is from Matthew 5:21-37 where Jesus says, “You have heard … BUT I say …”. Join us as we look more deeply into God’s word. Again, today, Rev John West will be speaking to us.
There is no message transcript for this week.
Today we celebrate the Baptism of our Lord. Our Gospel reading today is from Matthew 3: 13-17 and we will be looking at Jesus’ baptism; why He was baptised, the significance of baptism and what this means for us as we live each day.
Today we celebrate the 2nd Sunday after Epiphany. Our visiting speaking today, Rev Michael Birch, will be speaking to us, challenging us to remember how God has blessed in the past to encourage and sustain us in the present and into the future.
Today we celebrate the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany. The gospel reading from Matthew chapter 4: 12-25 deals with change; the change in Jesus’ circumstances following John the Baptist’s arrest and the changes experienced in the lives of the first disciples when they chose to follow Jesus. Jesus calls for changes in our lives as we choose daily to follow Him.
Welcome to our Christmas Day service. The message for today is embedded in our service sheet. Come and let us worship the newborn king!
Today is the 1st Sunday after Christmas. Our message today is: God with Us: In Glory and in Grief. Reverend Juleen will lead the service. The message included in the service sheet will be different to what is preached during the Sunday service.
Today we celebrate the 6th Sunday after Epiphany. Our gospel reading is from Matthew 5:21-37 where Jesus says, “You have heard … BUT I say …”. Join us as we look more deeply into God’s word. Again, today, Rev John West will be speaking to us.
There is no message transcript for this week.
Today is 4th Sunday of Advent, where we light the fourth candle, the Angels’ Candle of Love. Our readings and sermon talk about showing care for those who would otherwise be lost and left out. At this time of year may we be mindful of those in our community who need to be shown the love of Jesus.
Our Christmas Carol service tells the Story of the Light that Never Goes Out, the Christmas Story in poem form.
Our message for our 11pm Holy Communion Service continues the theme of the light that never goes out.
Today we celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord. Our message is entitled: Arise, Shine for Your Light Has Come. Once again, the message is embedded here for you to view, however will be different on the day.
On the 1st Sunday of Advent, as dawn draws near, we can hear the gentle whisper from God calling us to “wake up, live in my Light, be ready for my coming”. Jesus calls us to live ready, not anxious, not fearful, but attentive and faithful.
Today is the 2nd Sunday of Advent. Rev Michael Birch will be speaking to us today about the God of Hope and why we need to listen to the Shepherd’s voice.
Today is the 3rd Sunday of Advent. RevJuleen will be speaking about God’s goodness and faithfulness toward those who follow Him. What we need to continually remember is: God knows best.
Today we celebrate and recognise the work of our Defence Force, Police, Health and Emergency Services. Our readings today deal with the issues of faithfulness in service and being steadfast in hope. We also celebrate a baptism today.
Today we celebrate the 23rd Sunday after Pentecost. When things appear hopeless and we feel like giving up, we are encouraged to endure. We have the promise that with redemption comes transformation by God’s saving grace.
Today is Christ the King Sunday. We live in a world disillusioned and tired of leaders, but today’s readings focus on a King (leader) who listens, who forgives, who gathers and who brings peace and reconciliation. Come and meet this “leader” in our service today.
Today is the 19th Sunday of Pentecost. Are we persistent when we pray? Are we faithful to believe that God is ultimately in control and will answer for our good? Today our readings and sermon deal with the issue of praying with faithfulness and endurance.
Today is the 20th Sunday after Pentecost. Do we have a childlike faith? Do we believe that God is a generous restorer, who renews what is lost and fills our lives with His abundant grace? Life with God is about trust, not striving, restoration, not regret; abundance, not anxiety.
Today we celebrate All Saints Day; the day we remember those who have remained faithful to the resurrection hope despite the chaos and fear that they may have experienced. As we look back and remember, may we look forward to the future with hope and trust in God’s amazing promises.
Today is the 16th Sunday of Pentecost. In what area(s) of your life is God challenging you to trust Him more? How can you live a more faithful life? We are reminded that true faith shows itself in daily obedience, generosity and compassion.
Today is the 17th Sunday of Pentecost. Our Gospel reading today challenges us to lead by example, not to cause anyone to stumble in their faith, but also to forgive those who hurt us. God will increase our faith in this area, if we but ask.
Today is the 18th Sunday of Pentecost. As I write this, I’m looking outside at a glorious blue sky, colourful flowers and birds chirping and frolicking in the branches. We have so many things to be grateful for. Are we faithful in the difficult times? Do we regularly take the time to show gratitude for the blessings, even in times of trial?
Today is the 13th Sunday of Pentecost. We are looking at a very challenging passage in Luke’s gospel, chapter 14 and verses 25-35. He appears to be asking us to do what seems impossible; to give up everything we have to follow Him. What does it mean to carry our cross and follow Christ?
Today is the 14th Sunday of Pentecost. As Bishop Charlie will be sharing with us today, there is no transcript of his message. We would envisage he will be speaking on the Gospel passage for today, which is Luke 15: 1-10. This passage focuses on the rejoicing there is in Heaven when a sinner repents of their sins.
Today is the 15th Sunday of Pentecost. Our gospel reading today is from Luke 16: 1-13. At first reading it can be confusing and you may wonder why this story is included in Luke’s writings. Our sermon today will deal with stewardship of not only monetary wealth, but all the blessings that God has, and will, bestow on us. Those who can be trusted with little can also be trusted with much.
On the 10th Sunday of Pentecost, our reading from Hebrews is a history lesson of faith through the ages and the gospel reading from Luke challenges us to see and understand the signs of the times we live in. We need to hold on to our faith, knowing it is our Saviour who sets us free.
Today is the 11th Sunday of Pentecost. We are all guilty of wearing a mask at some time in our life; often to cover up fears or feelings of inadequacy. Jesus calls us to live an authentic life; He will give us the strength to do just that by enabling us to remove the mask and to live in freedom.
Today is the 12th Sunday of Pentecost. Have you ever asked, “Who is missing from my dinner table?”. We will learn from our gospel reading today that God is sending us to invite others to join us, to resist the inclination of keeping to our closed circles, but to live out hospitality that reflects the wide embrace of God’s love, where there is always room for “one more”.
Today is the 7th Sunday of Pentecost. In Luke chapter 11 verses 1-13, Jesus tells an interesting parable about how we should pray. It seems like we should “nag” God when we pray; but is there a difference between “nagging” prayer and “persevering” prayer?
Today is the 8th Sunday of Pentecost. Our gospel reading today (Luke 12: 13-21) is about the rich fool and the dangers of storing up earthly possessions while neglecting to store up God’s riches in Heaven.
Today is the 9th Sunday of Pentecost. Our gospel reading today (Luke 12: 32-40) tells us not to be afraid for God is our provider. He exhorts us to always be ready for service and to keep our lamps burning, shining His love for others to see.
On the 4th Sunday after Pentecost we learn about the Harvest. What is the Harvest and why are there only a few labourers to bring it in? We learn that we can ask God to send us out as His labourers to gather in the Harvest.
Today, the 5th Sunday of Pentecost, we celebrate Sea Sunday where we remember and celebrate seafarers around the world and God’s presence in their lives. It is also a time to remember and reflect on Jesus’ power to bring peace during those stormy times in each of our lives.
On the 6th Sunday of Pentecost, we look at hypocrisy and injustice and how God especially condemns unjust treatment of the poor. We are called to be more hospitable but also to sit and learn at the feet of Jesus. The challenge is: are we giving Jesus the attention He deserves?
This Sunday we celebrate the mystery and majesty of our Triune God. We marvel at the complexity of our Father, Son and Holy Spirit, yet know that we can call this majestic God, Father.
On the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost we know that even during times or seasons of discouragement, we can call out to God in confident hope of his faithfulness. Let us remind ourselves of these truths when stormy seasons enter our life.
On the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost we read in the Gospel passage when the disciples wanted to call down fire from heaven in response to the Samaritans contempt at Jesus. How often do we respond the same? Let us learn from Jesus response.
Shortly before Jesus’ crucifixion he told his disciples that he was about to leave them, to return to his father. This troubled their hearts. Today on 6th Sunday in Easter we learn how to “not let our hearts be troubled”.
Shortly before Jesus’ death, he withdrew to pray for the church that would one day take the message of the Gospel to the world. One aspect of his prayer was that the church would be one, unified under his Lordship. May Southlakes Anglican be a church that answers that prayer.
After fifty days of prayer and waiting, the Spirit finally fell on the gathering of believers. And not only on them, on Pentecost Sunday we remember that our Saviour empowered every member of his church to be witnesses throughout the world. May we be a church who walks in this power.
After Jesus’ resurrection he calls every believer who claims to love Him to live a life of daily surrender; and we are to help others grow into mature followers of Christ.
Today on “Good Shepherd Sunday” we welcome Bishop Peter Stuart to lead and preside at our service. As Bishop Peter is coming there is no message transcript.
Today on the 5th Sunday in Easter, we will be led by Rev Juleen Partridge, as we focus on Christ’s commandment for us to love one another in the same way that Christ has shown His love for us.
On Good Friday we pause to gaze at the cross, where our Saviour Jesus Christ laid his life for the world. Br Bill Nicolle will share a short reflection to aid us in reflecting in our own responsibility to respond to the cross.
It may have been dark for a season, but dawn brings our Saviour’s resurrection from the dead. Hallelujah! As we celebrate the miracle of Christ’s resurrection, we’ll consider whether we’re seizing the opportunity to start living our eternal life now!
We all have a little bit of Thomas in each of us. We have all experienced times when ‘doubts’ get the better of us. Today we will learn how to survive when a faith crisis arises.
Today is the fifth Sunday in Lent. Our lives are like spiritual houses built with bricks and mortar. Today we will look at whether our “bricks” are shaped by God’s truth or the world’s lies.
Today we celebrate Palm Sunday where we remember Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem prior to his crucifixion. We will look at what the PALM symbolises; God’s Promise, Acceptance, Love and Mercy. Thank you for joining us.
Today we celebrate Maundy Thursday, when we remember when Jesus gathered at the table for his last supper with his followers. This year we gather for an Agape Meal, shared around a table, celebrating a Messianic Passover Meal.
Today is the second Sunday in Lent. Our message today is about the vision and promise that we have that is worth sharing and proclaiming.
Today is the third Sunday in Lent. Our message today is about confronting and conquering a complaining spirit, and how, with God’s help, we can uproot this weed and instead produce the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness and goodness.
Today is the fourth Sunday in Lent. We will be talking about going on a trip – the “guilt” trip. How can we be set free from the guilt trip and the trap that this ensnares us in. How can we be free in Jesus and wear His robe of righteousness.
This week we are looking at the seventh and last Church mentioned in Revelation 2 and 3; the church in Laodicea. Their deeds were known and whilst they thought they were rich and in need of nothing, God wanted to spit them out because they were neither hot nor cold, but lukewarm. Their lack of commitment nauseated Him. Jesus loved this church and called them to repent and turn back to Him.
This week we are reviewing the seven ancient churches of Revelation to see what Christ is trying to teach us about His manifest presence here on earth and how we can reflect that presence and saving grace to those around us.
Today is the first Sunday in Lent. We will be looking at how Jesus was led into the wilderness, was tempted and how He triumphed over temptation through obedience to God’s will.
This week we are looking at the Church in Thyatira; a church that was acknowledged for being loving and patient and abounding in good works, but that was not grounded in truth and had allowed sin to corrupt them. Once again, Jesus warns them to repent.
This week we are looking at the Church in Sardis; a church that had the reputation of outwardly appearing spiritual but was warned that they were actually spiritually dead. They were warned to hold on to the truth and to repent of their sins.
This week we are looking at the Church in Philadelphia; a church known to have little strength, yet they kept God’s word and did not deny the name of God. They were commended for keeping God’s command to endure patiently and to hold on.
During the season of Epiphany, we’ll listen to Jesus share his thoughts on his churches. This week we are looking at the Church in Ephesus; a faithful church who lost their first love. What does this mean and how can we not fall into that trap?
Today we will continue our journey through the seven churches of Revelation. This week we are looking at the Church in Smyrna; an afflicted and poor church, but God says they are rich. They were told they would suffer but were admonished to remain faithful, and they would be victorious.
Today we will continue our journey through the seven churches of Revelation. This week we are looking at the Church in Pergamum; a church where some compromised their allegiance to Jesus and accommodated false teachings and dabbled in ungodly practices. Jesus says we must repent.
Christmas Day. Our King and Saviour is born in fulfillment of the old testament prophecies – he arrived as promised, right on time.
On the first Sunday after Christmas, Br Bill Nicolle will lead us in a Prayer Praise and Proclamation service remembering the profound impact of Christ’s birth.
During the season of Epiphany, we’ll listen to Jesus share his thoughts on his churches. We’ll learn how Southlakes Anglican can be the faithful church Jesus calls us to be.
Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent. The theme for this week is Love. We show our love for God by trusting that He will do the impossible. We will be looking at Mary’s Example of faith.
It’s Christmas Eve and it’s time to enjoy our special Carol Service together with a drama entitled “The Innkeeper’s Wife’s Lesson”.
It’s Christmas Eve and let us celebrate Holy Communion as we bring in Christmas Day.
Today is the first Sunday of Advent. When there is darkness all around us, how can we hold on to hope and have courageous confidence that God is faithful and will keep his promises.
Today is the second Sunday of Advent. This week we are focusing on Peace and whilst Jesus is known as the Prince of Peace, we see very little evidence of this peace around the world. So, how exactly does Jesus bring “peace on earth”?
Today is the third Sunday of Advent. There is a difference between Happiness and Joy. What is that difference and how can we have joy even when the circumstances do not make us happy. At this time of year we hear a lot about rejoicing. How and why should we rejoice?
Today is the 25th week of Pentecost. Our service today will be recognising the work of our defence, police, health and emergency services. RevJuleen will be presenting our message from Mark 12: 38-44, looking at two stories that teach about true humility and obedience.
Today is the 26th week of Pentecost. Br Bill will be speaking today about keeping watch but staying connected to Jesus, based on the gospel of Mark chapter 13.
Today is Christ the King Sunday. Is He the King of your life? Does He sit on the throne of your heart? Today’s message will look at how this is a constant daily process, not just a once off decision.
Today is the 22nd week of Pentecost. This week we conclude our series exploring how to develop a faith that works when life doesn’t. James’ final chapter deals with developing a faith that transforms weakness into strength.
Today is the 23rd week of Pentecost. Today we will be looking at how Jesus engaged with the blind man, Bartimaeus (Mark 10: 46-52), and how we should respond to those who cry for God’s mercy.
Today is All Saints Day. Today we will be looking at celebrating life and understanding that every saint has a story to tell. Our lives should celebrate the story of God.
Today is the 19th week of Pentecost. This week we will continue looking at James’ practical advice about how we use our speech and looking at how we can develop a faith that helps us control our tongues.
Today is the 20th week of Pentecost. As Bishop Charlie will be taking our service there is no Message Transcript; however attached is a Personal Reflection and some Discussion Questions on James 4:1-17, for you to go through and contemplate.
Today is the 21st week of Pentecost. As Bishop Ian Lambert is taking the service there is no Message Transcript; however he has provided an overview of his talk based on James 5:1-12, together with some personal reflection and discussion questions.
Today is the 16th week of Pentecost and as we continue our journey through the book of James we will be looking at how we can develop a faith that helps in times of conflict.
Today is the 17th week of Pentecost. We are continuing our journey through the book of James and today we are looking at how we can develop a faith that makes us less judgemental.
Today is the 18th week of Pentecost. We are continuing our journey through the book of James. We all make a huge number of decisions every day; some easy but others much harder with lifelong consequences. Today we will be examining how to have a faith that makes tough decisions easier.
Today is the 13th week of Pentecost and today we will look at what Jesus meant when he said to “come to Me” and how that means He will feed us so that we will never be hungry again.
Today is the 14th week of Pentecost and we will look at Jesus’ confronting statement that whoever “eats” His flesh and “drinks” His blood will abide in Him and He in them. We will look at how and why Jesus pulls down the dividing wall between secular and sacred.
Today is the 15th week of Pentecost and we will be starting our journey through the book of James and today we are looking at how we can develop a faith that works and which is not troubled by troubles.
Today is the 10th week of Pentecost and we will be looking at why we are called to grow to maturity and how does growth happen? What should we do when we are asking, “Where is Jesus?”
Today is the 11th week of Pentecost and we will be looking at many people’s favourite subject: Food. But we will be asking whether we are searching for and nourishing our souls with good spiritual food?
Today is the 12th week of Pentecost and we celebrating the inspirational work of Mary Sumner, while also exploring what Jesus meant went he called himself the ‘bread of life’.
Today is the 7th week of Pentecost and we will be looking at what God has called us to be: and that is to be a community of worshippers.
Today is the 8th week of Pentecost and we will be looking at what it means for us to be a member of God’s family.
Today is the 9th week of Pentecost and we will be looking at how members of Christ’s body ought to relate to one another and why it is important to gather beyond Sunday worship.
As we have a visiting speaker presenting the message for the 4th Sunday after Pentecost, there is no message transcript for this week.
Following RevMel’s recent SOMA African mission trip, her message today will be in the form of an interview about her experience and what she has learned.
On this sixth week of Pentecost we will be looking at God’s purpose for His church and why our worship of God is more than just on Sunday.
Let us not allow the focus of our image of God become overwhelmed. God invites us into intimate fellowship with him, calling him ‘Father’. Do we dare to call him, Abba Father?
As we journey through the season of Pentecost and continue to live in the light of Jesus, we see that the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.
On this 3rd Sunday after Pentecost we are challenged by Mark’s gospel regarding who is God’s family. We will see that the family of God does the will of God.
Today we continue the series on the pastoral letters of John. In his letters John urges the believers to remember that Jesus Christ has made us an overcomer.
Today is Ascension Sunday. We will look at God’s great commission to go into all the world, to proclaim the good news; to be a missionary called to minister in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Today is Pentecost Sunday. We will look at God’s life-giving gift of the Holy Spirit to the church and remember that “He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world.”
Today we continue the series on the pastoral letters of John. In his letters John urges the believers to hold fast to the true Gospel, by being confident in, and experiencing the grace of forgiveness.
Today we continue the series on the pastoral letters of John. In his letters John urges the believers to hold fast to the true Gospel, by knowing the Good Shepherd and showing his love to others.
Today we continue the series on the pastoral letters of John. In his letters John urges the believers to hold fast to the true Gospel, by being assured of God’s goodness and love
Our Saviour is risen! He is risen indeed! Today we celebrate the power of God which raised Jesus from the dead – the pathway for us to enjoy eternal life has been made clear. How does our life reflect the power of God that resides within our heart?
Our Saviour is risen! Today we begin a series on the pastoral letters of John. In his letters John urges the believers to hold fast to the true Gospel, through finding their identity in the fellowship God shares with his Son Jesus.
Sunday, 17 March will be our fifth Sunday in the season of Lent. Jesus teaches us that it is through dying that we enter enternal life?
On Palm Sunday we wave palm branches and declare “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” We welcome Assistant Bishop Charlie Murray who will lead our service! As Bishop Charlie is preaching, there is no message transcript.
Maundy Thursday remembers the time when Jesus shares one last meal with his disciples, before his death. Here, he washes their feet and urges us to follow his example. How are we to do so? Even washing the feet of our enemies and those who will betray us?
Sunday, 25th February will be our second Sunday in the season of Lent. Are we willing to carry our cross? It is the kind of dedication not many are prepared to do.
Sunday 3 March will be our third Sunday in the season of Lent. Will you allow Jesus to disrupt your life? We often put ‘do not disturb’ on the door of our hearts. If only we’d allow Jesus to clean it out!
Sunday, 10 March will be our fourth Sunday in the season of Lent. Jesus uses a shocking analogy to explain the Gospel.
This week on Transfiguration Sunday we celebrate the appearing of Jesus in his glorified form. Rev Juleen will lead the service preaching on how are our lives being transfigured by God?
On Wednesday, 14th February we gather for our Ash Wednesday service. Ash Wednesday assists us to enter into our Lenten Journey, this year focussing on surrendering all to Jesus.
Sunday, 18th February will be our first Sunday in the season of Lent. Are we prepared to lay down our life for Jesus? It is the kind of dedication not many are prepared to do.
Today as we celebrate the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany, Rev Mel will lead the service and Bill will preach. Bill’s message is entitled “Jesus’ asks: Will you follow me?”
Today as we celebrate the 4th Sunday after Epiphany, Rev Mel will lead the service and preach on how Jesus has called us to live a life of purpose.
Today as we celebrate the 5th Sunday after Epiphany, Rev Mel will lead the service and preach on whether you are passing the tests God sets for you.
