‘In view of all this…’ And so, we get to the heart of the prayer. After a long and detailed confession of the people’s rebellious ways, their repentance is manifested in a ‘binding agreement’, witnessed by their spiritual leaders (10:1-27). True conviction and confession always ends in commitment. Indeed, the word repentance, which we often … Read more
Someone once said that the definition of madness is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result each time. I don’t know if that’s true, but it’s certainly a decent definition of human nature. We do the same thing over and over, intending to change… only to find the cycle repeating … Read more
Our popular informal meetings at The Swan, Milton Keynes Village, have returned. You are invited to join us to discuss the bible in a relaxed atmosphere. The next date for your diary is:12th November at 8pm.
Confession is good for the soul. It’s also a practice which has become increasingly unfashionable in modern culture, where the word sin is often seen as an outdated concept. If there is such a thing as sin, it’s something like not being true to yourself – whatever that means! The primary issue, of course, is … Read more
Since we looked at the biblical idea of ‘conviction’ yesterday, today is another reflection from John’s gospel on that theme: July 25th 1982. Just a normal Sunday. I went to church with my family, to (what we then called) the Family Service. My Dad was giving the talk, about Jesus meeting Nicodemus in John chapter … Read more
All Saints is open every Thursday afternoon 3 – 4pm to welcome visitors and for private prayer. All are welcome to pop in for a chat or to pray. Please note that for the next few months there will be a time of silent prayer and music during the session, instead of prayers in the … Read more
We would like to run another competition this year to design Christmas cards which can be sold in aid of our church. Any style is welcome – both more traditional scenes and very different interpretations have proved extremely popular over the years, and the competition is open to adults and children alike. To enter, send … Read more
God’s word has a power all of its own. The bible is full of references to its own efficacy: think of Isaiah 55:11 – ‘my word does not return to me empty’ – or Hebrews 4:12 – ‘the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword… it judges the thoughts and … Read more
Our online service for 13th September
What does a society need to thrive? It’s a question we ask ourselves a lot nowadays. Despite rapid advances in technology, medicine and global infrastructure, many cultures seem stuck in a slow but steady downward spiral. It’s a question which also lies at the heart of Nehemiah’s great work. As we have observed, this was … Read more