Sermons

#108 For the Fathers out There

It's important to remember that you don’t have to be a perfect dad, but being a present dad is priceless. Your presence in your child's life helps form your child’s identity. Like many relationships, there is a biblical pattern to follow regarding the relationship between fathers and their children.

#107 From Patmos to Present: A Vision of VII Churches - Thyatira

Commendable attributes marked the Church at Thyatira. They exhibited love, faith, and good works, demonstrating patience and growth. Yet, Jesus addresses a matter of concern: They permit Jezebel, a self-proclaimed prophetess, to teach and lead them astray into idol worship and sexual immorality. The pivotal term for comprehending how this happened is 'permit'. In permitting themselves to be led astray, the church failed to exercise critical thinking and discernment before allowing these practices to intertwine within their community. Let's uncover the lessons from Thyatira that remain relevant for us today.

#106 From Patmos to Present: A Vision of VII Churches - Pergamum

In our 3rd instalment of “From Patmos to Present: A Vision of VII Churches” this week, we look at the church at Pergamum. Pergamum was an early Christian church situated among a plethora of Pagan Temples. The church at Pergamum is commended for holding fast to the name of Jesus but also rebuked for adopting antinomian practices influenced by the surrounding pagan culture, mostly involving sexual immorality. The church was faithful to the Name of Jesus but compromised by culture. Compromise placed them in the uncomfortable position of facing the sharp and uncompromising double-edged sword of truth and judgement.

#105 From Patmos To Present: A Vision of VII Churches - Smyrna

While Ephesus embodied the loveless church, Smyrna stands as the church that endured persecution. Remarkably, Jesus offered only words of encouragement to Smyrna. But why this divergence? Persecution is a haunting concern for many Christians, and rightly so. What exactly constitutes persecution, and how can believers navigate it in a manner that reflects honour upon God? This week, in the newest segment of our series, 'From Patmos to Present: A Vision of the VII Churches,' we delve into the church at Smyrna, grappling with these questions and more.

#104 From Patmos to Present: A Vision of Seven Churches - Ephesus

 
While exiled on the Island of Patmos, John was given an enigmatic vision of things to come. He received instruction to write a letter to seven churches in Asia. The letter contains both words of encouragement and solemn warnings tailored to the unique circumstances of each church: Ephesus, Laodicea, Thyatira, Philadelphia, Pergamum, Smyrna, and Sardis.
Much of the study of this letter is done in speculation of, “What is going to happen then?”
In this series, we take a different approach. We look to these VII churches in an attempt to answer a pressing question, “What can and should we do now?”

#103 Relationships 101 - Slaves and Masters

Throughout history, slavery has stirred profound debate and moral concerns, leaving an enduring impact on global societies.
The Bible, a revered text for millions, contains passages addressing slavery. Yet, comprehending the true biblical perspective on this contentious subject requires contextual interpretation of these ancient scriptures.
In our concluding segment of "Relationships 101," we will explore the complexities of slavery in the Bible, shedding light on its historical backdrop and ethical implications. Join us on this journey to fathom the biblical stance on slavery and its relevance in today's world.

#102 Relationships 101 - Parents and Children

This week is all about strengthening family ties and deepening the parent-child bond. Listen in for "Relationships 101 - Parents and Children" as we delve into Ephesians 6:1-4 and learn from the timeless wisdom of scripture about children's obedience, parental responsibility, and fostering a loving family culture. Whether you're a parent or a child, this is for you.

#101 Relationships 101 - Husbands

In Ephesians 5:25, the Bible says, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it” It’s no secret that men tend to be straightforward and less complex than women, but husbands love your wives is a complex topic. This week in our 4th instalment of “Relationships 101”, we take the Biblical command, “Husbands love your wives”, and remove some of the complications, breaking it down into actionable bullet points.

#100 Relationships 101 - Wives

In our ongoing series, Relationships 101, we are delving into the dynamics of the marriage relationship. It is essential to recognise that God, in His wisdom, has provided us with commands in scripture that establish boundaries for healthy and flourishing relationships. It is not uncommon for confusion and contention to arise when discussing the biblical interaction between husbands and wives. Often, this can be attributed to the blending of cultural practices and biblical commands. We must navigate this topic by distinguishing between scriptural mandates and cultural influences. While we prioritise the Bible's commands, we also acknowledge the impact of cultural context.

#99 Relationships 101 - Friendship

What does it indeed mean to be a friend? How can we become not just good but great friends? In this week's instalment of our series, 'Relationships 101,' we delve into the qualities that lay the foundation for exceptional friendships.

#98 Why Church

Even many Christians have different feelings about the purpose of the local church and whether or not it matters if they are part of it. Today we ask and answer the question, "Why Church"? 

#97 Relationships 101 - Jesus

   This is part one of the series "Relationships 101". We are delving into the fundamental aspects of how we relate to God and others and the relevance of His commandments in our lives today.
   There is a lot of tension between our human imperfections and God's perfect standards. Have you ever wondered how a relationship with God and living by His commands correlate, especially when we have a human tendency to fall short? Listen, like, comment, share, and follow. 

#96 The Whole Armour of God - Prayer

In this episode, we come to the end of our journey through the Whole Armour of God. In this final instalment, we're diving into an essential element that shapes us as disciplined Christians: PRAYER. Listen in as we learn about effective prayer by exploring four key elements that Jesus personally taught His followers. Please Like, comment & subscribe.

#95 The Whole Armour of God - The Sword of The Spirit

When it comes to wearing armour, the process is relatively straightforward, requiring minimal skill as you simply put it on and trust in its protective capabilities. However, using a sword is far more intricate, as its effectiveness relies on the expertise and proficiency of the individual wielding it. While even a new recruit can swing, hack, and chop with a sword, their precision and technique cannot compare to that of a seasoned and disciplined warrior.
 
In our focus this week, we turn to the ultimate authority, Jesus Himself, to gain wisdom and guidance on how to effectively utilize the Sword of the Spirit.

#94 The Whole Armour of God - The Helmet of Salvation

A soldier stands firm on the battlefield. He prepares to defend his tactical position. He stands firm, his shield held high, his breastplate guarding his chest, and his feet firmly planted. One more vital piece of armour completes his defence—the helmet. This helmet is a crucial safeguard for his head, the seat of his intellect and identity. Without it, his mind becomes vulnerable to a fatal blow from the enemy.
Christians are told in Ephesians 6:17 to take the helmet of salvation—an indispensable piece of armour. The helmet of salvation serves as crucial protection against one of the most damaging attacks of the enemy: doubt.
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#93 The Whole Armour of God - The Shield of Faith

As Christians, we are confronted with a crucial decision every day: Will we choose to obey Christ or disobey Him? This decision ultimately boils down to our faith. Do we trust God and have confidence in His wisdom, or do we succumb to temptation and choose our own path?  In this episode, we explore the significance of the shield of faith and how it can help us make wise decisions that lead to a life of confident trust and obedience to Christ.

#92 Treating the Women in Your Life Well

One of the biggest challenges facing the human race is division. Today, we see a lot of division in the world, whether it's at the level of nations, churches, or even between husbands and wives. Unfortunately, we struggle to agree on many things. While it has become controversial to acknowledge that men and women are different, the reality is that we are. However, instead of seeing these differences as a source of conflict, we should recognize that they complement each other. Men and women have unique strengths and weaknesses that, when understood and embraced, can help us work together as a team to strengthen our families and churches and glorify God.

#91 The Whole Armour of God - Gospel Shoes

Ephesians 6:15 says, “having your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace” Paul uses the image of putting on “gospel shoes” as part of The Whole Armour of God. A gospel that provides both readiness and peace. What does he mean by that, and how in the world do you put on metaphorical footwear?

#90 The Whole Armour of God Part 3 - The Breastplate of Righteousness

This week we are exploring the Whole Armour of God, focusing on the Breastplate of Righteousness. As Christians, we know righteousness before God is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but God also cares about our actions and thoughts. But do our attempts at righteous living, or lack thereof, affect people who don’t share our faith? Join us as we explore the significance of living a righteous life and how it impacts those around us, positively or negatively.

#89 The Whole Armour of God - The Belt of Truth

As followers of Christ, we are called to live in obedience to Him, which is synonymous with living in opposition to the forces of evil. This inevitably results in spiritual battles. The battles we face as Christians are not always dramatic or overt but are often fought in the everyday mundane life choices. This is why it is so important to be spiritually prepared and equipped with the whole Armour of God. If you have any questions, leave a comment, send a message through social media or email me @pastorchrismiller@hinterlandbaptist.com. I will answer them in the blog or on an upcoming podcast.

#88 The Whole Armour of God - Spiritual Warfare

This episode marks the beginning of our series: "The Whole Armour of God - Part 1". We’re stepping onto the battlefield of Spiritual Warfare and exploring The Armour of God, piece by piece. Throughout this journey, we'll explore the relevance of these ancient teachings in our modern lives and equip you with the knowledge and tools to strengthen your faith, fortify your spirit and arm yourself for the battles to come.

#87 For The Love of Victory

Worship music is a vital aspect of Christianity, with a rich history spanning millennia. It can be as instructive as a well-crafted sermon. However, worship is not exclusive to Christians; almost everyone desires to worship. This desire stems from our longing for perfection in our relationships and the world around us. This week, we will explore how and why this longing manifests as worship.

#86 Who is Jesus?

To some, Easter means time off school and work. To others, it means chocolate and bunnies. To others, it is a Holy Day. To everyone, it is an opportunity to consider, “Who is Jesus?”
Link for cross reference visualisation: 
https://www.openbible.info/labs/cross-references/visualization

#85 Seeking, Finding and Following God’s Plan for Your Life

The past few weeks, we’ve talked about being willing and available to serve God. You might say, “Yes, Lord, I’m willing and available!” But now what? How do we discern what God wants us to do? Seeking, Finding and Following God's plan for our lives. 

#84 What’s in Your Hand - Part 4

The first four books of the New Testament, aka “The Gospels”, record the events of the life of Jesus. There are many incredible things Jesus did that are recorded in the Gospels. Some of those events occur in one or two, even three, of the Gospels, but only a few are recorded in all four. Jesus feeding the 5000 is one of those. This week we talk about why the lesson we can learn from this particular event in the life of Jesus is so important.

#83 What’s in Your Hand Part 3

God often works in the seemingly mundane things of everyday life. 

#82 Guest Series: Dr Darvie Fenison

The 1st in our "Guest Series" is a talk with Dr Darvie Fenison. A long-time pastor, friend and mentor. 

#81 - Adopting an Eternal Mindset - Luke 20:20-26

It's easy to become obsessed with what's happening now and lose sight of what's happening forever. 

#68 - Do The Right Thing. Why Morality Matters. Don’t Lie.

We know we shouldn't, but we have all lied at some point. Maybe we lied to avoid trouble or to advantage ourselves in some way, but the 9th commandment tells us not to lie. Unfortunately, lies come with heavy consequences for ourselves and our society. This week we'll be talking about some reasons we shouldn't lie and the consequences of what happens when we do.

#80 - What’s in Your Hand? - Part2

The Apostle Paul spoke about the friction between God’s will and his own will. That friction is a reality for every Christian. This week in our series, “What’s in Your Hand”, we look at the life of King David, a man after God’s own heart, and the struggles he faced as a servant of God.

#79 - What’s in Your Hand - Part 1

What qualifications are required to serve God? When we look at many of the more well-known characters in the Bible, the answer would be “not much”. However, there are a few things great servants of God tend to share in common.

#72 - Kings, Scribes and Wise Men

It's easy to hear a story so many times that we stop hearing it in such a way that it might address who we are. The principles never change, but sometimes we just stop paying attention. Let's shine some light on the Ancient Christmas Narrative. 

#71 - Jingle Bell Nah!

Remember the excitement you felt as a child as Christmas approached? As you get older and life inevitably happens, it’s easy to lose the excitement and wonder of Christmas. This week we ponder some things that may help with that.

#70 - Chri$tma$ Genero$ity

Many charities conduct fundraising campaigns around Christmas because people are more generous. Both non-church and churchy people tend to be more relaxed with their wallets. So are Christian giving and humanitarian generosity the same thing, or is there a difference between the two? How about the difference between generosity and sacrificial worship?

#69 - Do The Right Thing. Why Morality Matters. Pride.

We use the word pride in both positive and negative contexts. In a negative context, pride attributes honour where it isn't due. The Bible speaks about pride in a negative context a lot. That's because pride sets us on a collision course with destruction; unfortunately, the two are inseparable.

#67 - Do The Right Thing. Why Morality Matters: Respect your Elders.

Imagine the thing that you desire most in the world. Solomon says wisdom is more valuable than that, and you should "Get wisdom". You can get it the hard way through a lifetime of difficult experiences, or the easy way, respect your elders and listen to what they have to say.

#66 - Tis’ the season to be anxious and depressed.

It's that time of year when we eat, drink, spend too much, and have more debt to look forward to in the New Year. Some people love the holiday season, others not so much. This is for you if you are struggling with anxiety or depression. 

#65 - Do The Right Thing. Why Morality Matters. Sexual Morality.

This week we are talking about sexual morality. Sex is often treated as casual and inconsequential, but there's more to it than that, a lot more. Where and how should sex fit into our modern culture? How our culture views sex has the potential to benefit or harm you, your marriage and even society as a whole. What do you say if your partner asks you to move in together? Should you get married first? Does it even matter, or is marriage an outdated tradition that no longer holds any relevance in our contemporary society? Sexual desire is an excellent God-given desire, and how you exercise it matters. 

#64 - Aliens, Halloween and Alcohol

Aliens, Halloween and Alchohol, sounds like quite the party. Today we are looking at a few of the recently received questions. 

#63 - Do The Right Thing. Why Morality Matters. How a church deals with immorality in church.

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, or so the saying goes. But that’s not always the case in a church. Some things shouldn’t stay. This week we answer some questions and focus on how a local church should deal with immortality. If a church ignores sin among its members, division or dilution will soon follow. 

#62 - Do the Right Thing. Why Morality Matters, an introduction.

This week we begin a new series. We are talking about why morality matters practically. 

#47 Communicating His Story: Let’s Talk About Truth and Power

Today we look at one aspect of a life empowered by the Holy Spirit.  

#46 Communicating His Story: Let’s Talk about The Rich Young Ruler

We all know good people who do good things, but what's the standard for what is good? Is it a quantitative or a qualitative measure? Is it the number of good things someone does that make them good or is it a quality they possess?

#45 Communicating His Story: Let’s Talk about The Woman at The Well

We all deal with pain and suffering. Sometimes it can be damaging. We may not know someone's past, but what we can know is that it probably hasn't been easy. 

#44 Communicating His Story: Part 5 Let’s Talk about Covid, Charlatans, Conspiracies and the Coming End of the World

Covid, Charlatans, Conspiracies, the Coming End of the World, Vaccines, the Illuminati, The Great Reset and The New World Order.
Yep, we're going there.

#43 Communicating His Story: Let’s Talk Part 4 Matthew 9:9-13

Our character is the sum of the decisions we make throughout our lifetime. Are we making decisions that build a character that aligns with our message?  

#42 Communicating His Story: Let’s talk part 3 John 3:1-21 and Acts 2:42-47

Part 3 in our series "Let's Talk". If you're a non-Christian, have you ever been annoyed by a Christian who wants to tell you about Jesus? Have you ever wondered why Christians won't "Keep their religion to themselves"? Are you a Christian pondering whether or not it matters if you tell someone about Jesus? The answer might give everyone better insight and understanding.  

#41 Communicating His Story: Let’s Talk Part 2 John 3:1-21

#40 Communicating His Story: Let’s Talk Part 1 John 3:1-21

Sharing a timeless message in contemporary culture. John 3:1-21

#39 I Samuel 1:19-28

Mother's Day 2022

#38 Romans 1:8-32 The Manifestation of Sin in A Godless Culture

How God manifests His wrath in the world today. It's probably not what you think. 

#37 Luke 20:1-26 A Question of Authority

#36 Definitions: The Resurrection

The final episode of the "Definitions" series. 

#35 Definitions: Holy

Today, we are looking at the word Holy as it relates to God, people, and everyday life. 

#34 Definitions: #Blessed

Looking at the word blessed, how it's used and what it means. 

#33 Definitions: Wisdom

A look at wisdom. What it is and how to get it. 

#32 Definitions: Religion

A perspective on ideologies, religion and religious practice. 

#31 Definitions: Sin

Sin defined: What is it, what does it do and how do I deal with it? 

#30 Definitions and Why They Matter: Christian

#29 Definitions and Why They Matter: Love

#28 Definitions and Why They Matter: Church

#27 Proverbs 19:18 Definitions and Why They Matter

#26 Being Challenge Week #5

Being Challenge Week #5

#25 Being Challenge Week #4

#24 The Being Challenge Week #3

#23 Being Challenge Week #2

#22 The Being Challenge Week 1

The Being Challenge Week 1

#20 Birthmarks of a Born Again Believer

Every believer has a few spiritual "birthmarks" they share in common. Most believers at some point feel at least a little bit unsettled of where they stand with God. It is during these times we can look at these birthmarks and draw some peace and assurance. 

#19 Matthew 21:1-10

Everyone wants to be successful, but have you ever defined what success means to you personally? We all have hope of some description and many of us place it in our definition of success, unfortunately doing so will ultimately lead to disappointment. This week we take a look at Matthew 21:1-10, The Triumphal entry, a familiar story of misplaced hope.

#18 - Chase Reynolds of Wycliffe Bible Translators

Today I'm having a conversation with Chase Reynolds. Chase is a linguist who has spent the past 15 years working with Wycliffe Bible translators. He has spent a lot of time in very remote places. We wrestle a little bit with technical difficulties but are still able to have great conversation.  We only begin to scratch the surface of Chase's story today and hope to do a follow up episode in the future. 

#17 - Rob Woods of Barnabas Ministries

Rob Woods works with Barnabas ministries and facilities John 17:23 support groups for Pastors. Barnabas Ministries is a ministry that focuses on providing support for pastors as they minister to others. He asked me to include a small correction... "I had an a-ha moment just now. The word I shared last night in Swahili, Umoja mkamilifu meant unity one/perfectly one. I should have said, Kujihudumia - Self-Care.  That’s the word I was trying to recall." -Rob Woods

#16 Reaping What you Sow

It's an ancient and unchanging principle, you reap what you sow.

#15 - Dr. David Eyears

A conversation with Psychiatrist Dr. David Eyears. 

#14 The Parable of The Sower - Matthew 13:1-23

We all have a pharisee living in us just waiting to come out...

#13 Telling The Truth

TRIGGER WARNING: A pastor talks about money in this podcast

#12 ”Living Truth” John 14:6

Today we talk about living truth, rather than a self-managed religious narrative

#11 ”Applying Truth” John 3:1-18; Matthew 10:16

Applying truth in a way that is both wise and harmless

#10 ”Speaking The Truth” James 3:2-10#10

A Sunday message on the importance and power of being truthful in our speech.

#9 - Financial Health and Wellbeing with Stuart Sampson

Today Stuart Sampson from CAP financial have a talk about financial health and wellbeing. 

#8 Social Health and Wellbeing with Councillor Glenn Tozer

This week Glenn Tozer and I have a conversation about social health and wellbeing. 

#7 - Mental and Emotional Health and Wellbeing with Natalie Wood

This week Natalie wood and I have a conversation about Mental and Emotional Health and Wellbeing. Natalie owns & operates her Gold Coast Private Practice - Cogni Academy Counselling & Clinical Supervision - with over 1200+ client hours. She is a member of The ACA’s College of Supervisors and one of the Convenors for the ACA's Gold Coast region. She is also committed to providing EAP (Employee Assistance Programs) and NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) recipients with high quality counselling & support. With a Masters of Counselling, her current post graduate studies is in helping to raise awareness, solve the problems & long-term difficulties perinatal women endure & face after 'near death' childbirth events through both secular & sacred practice. 
 
Natalie’s unique ability to combine key relationships, synthesise information and connect people with appropriate resources for themselves and others, is an asset in her commitment and role as both an Integrative Psychotherapist, Family & Individual Counsellor and an Innovative Clinical Supervisor. 
 
Natalie’s mission is to empower 100,000+ people & Mental Health Practitioners consistently in their potential and ensure the voice of people with Mental Health challenges (particularly women experiencing PTSD symptoms and at risk of relationship breakdown) is heard, held with compassion and responded to appropriately. In addition her convening, advocating and engaging in mental health conversations with Counselling Associations, Integrative Health Industries and Psycho-Education bodies continues to empower people & practitioners in their potentials.

#6 - Physical Health and Wellbeing with Sam Miller

This week Sam Miller and I have a conversation about physical health and wellbeing from a Christian perspective.

#5 - Spiritual Health and Wellbeing with Rhys Evans

This week Rhys Evans and I have a conversation about spiritual wellbeing from a Christian perspective. 

#4 - An Introduction to Unplug and Reset

Each week over the next 5 weeks we are going to be looking at a different area of personal health and wellbeing, including spiritual, physical, mental, social and financial health and wellbeing. Our hope is that this will help you learn a little more about yourself, taking care of yourself and better enable you to better manage the stress and strains of day to day life.