From Ben’s Desk

In my private devotions at present I am reading once again the fascinating and challenging letter to the Hebrews. All my Christian life I have been fascinated with this rich, informative New Testament letter. This past week I read chapter 5 and it reminds us that Jesus is the greater high priest who, unlike the…

It is with a deep sense of sadness that I have read of the fall and disgrace of an international Christian leader, who has been exposed for his ungodly behaviour and sin. This has devastated a lifetime reputation and has brought immense pain to his extended family. It has also rocked the faith of many…

One of the challenges I am facing as 2021 begins is to stay fresh, enthusiastic and motivated in my Christian life. I am only too aware of how easy it is to drop into the groove of just going through the motions of being a Christian and doing what is expected. I have been committed…

Today we mark White Ribbon Sunday. This is the Sunday where we have the opportunity to place a white ribbon on the lawn in front of the church to remember that there are sadly many women and children experiencing varying degrees of violence in the home. This may be a special moment for you as…

It is hard to believe that Christmas is just over a month away. This has been a strange year with the lockdowns of Covid-19 disrupting all our plans. In many ways the uncertainties, losses, disruptions and challenges of this pandemic have played havoc with our mental wellbeing. Many people I meet feel worn down and…

Today after church we will hold our AGM. This is a time for us to reflect on this past year and record how the work of God in GPC has progressed, acknowledging God’s hand upon us. It has been a year with some unusual challenges and hardships, however I can’t help but be grateful and…

Last Wednesday night I attended a very sad church service. It was the final congregational meeting to be held in the church as the members of the congregation agreed to close the church down and cease worship on the site after 95 years. It was very sad to hear the stories of many who had…

In our Wednesday night home group we have just finished a study on 1 Thessalonians. One of the closing verses of this book is 5:19. Do not put out the Spirit’s fire. This verse affirms that all people who have come to faith and trust in Christ have been given the Holy Spirit to be…

Some people in GPC are on a 20/20 Bible reading programme where we have been set the challenge to read the entire bible through this year. At present, in the Old Testament readings, we are in 2 Kings. We are covering the adventures of God’s prophet Elisha. In Chapter 6 we read the account of…

In the sermon today we will be looking at the new and better covenant that is inaugurated by Jesus. In so many ways it is richer, better and more far-reaching than anything previously offered in the Old Testament. The word for “new” used here is an unusual word that does not often appear. It means…