Journeying Together 2026

What is Journeying Together all about? Click here to find out more
This year’s excellent “Navigators 5x5x5″ Bible reading plan can be found and downloaded here

Aug 16th “Light, fright, bright” (Simon Judah from 1 Cor 4)
READ 1 Cor 4v1-5
WATCH Simon’s sermon here (starts 45:53)
FOR DISCUSSION
1. Do you have any specific questions on the passage and sermon above?
2. Try shining a LIGHT on your passport. Does it reveal “UK” or is it a fake? Similarly, share your thoughts about what it looks like to God to shine a light in dusty cobwebby parts of your heart? Have there been times like when Simon shone a torch into his sofa, that you have found things you didn’t want to find there (FRIGHT!)? Can you share time when this has been helpful to you?
3. Have you watched Simon’s video (see 53:20 on the above sermon) of a tennis ball getting caught in a cycle in the stream? How can you relate to this? In what practical ways could we prevent the same things happening over and over again in our lives?
4. Would it ever be right to lovingly correct somebody who has sinned or is sinning?

Aug 9th “Open eyes and recognised” (Tony Murphy)
READ Luke 24v13-35
WATCH Tony’s sermon here
This reading ends with the resurected Jesus appearing to two downcast disciples, and their eyes being opened as he broke bread together with them. We read, “When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him” (v31)
The beautuiful thing is that at any point we recognise his presence, our downcast faces (v17), even our downcast souls (See Psalm 42v5,6,11) are lifted up and filled with new hope, joy and purpose. Communion is certainly one of those times, when our eyes are opened and we recognise his presence with us, which is why we regularly share it together.
So in this world of uncertainty, let us keep our eyes on Jesus, prioritise time with him each day, and like the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, we too can have that same confidence that Jesus is there with us in every moment.
FOR DISCUSSION
1. What stands out for you in this passage? What questions do you have?
2. Can you share a specific eye opening moment in your life, when your eyes were opened and you knew Jesus was right there with you? What difference did that make to you in that moment?

Aug 2nd “A tree climbing moment” (Paul Beardmore)
READ Luke 19v1-10
WATCH Paul’s sermon here
Paul brought out some significant points from a well known story of Zacchaeus, the much hated tax collector, who climbed a tree so he could see Jesus.
He talked about the how Zacchaeus overcame his obstacle to seeing Jesus and how Jesus honoured this by inviting Zacchaeus to eat with him.
Jesus called Zacchaeus by his name, not his (much hated) trade. His name had significance, as it meant “pure and clean”
In his response, Zacchaeus did’t wait until he had all the answers. He accepted Jesus’ invitation and joined him for a meal.
Jesus didn’t wait for Zaccheus to sort himself out, but met with him just as he was, much to the crowd’s judgement.
Following 1-2-1 time with Jesus, Zacchaeus was a changed man. He started giving away the money he had stolen and more, not out of duty, but a changed heart
FOR DISCUSSION
1. What stands out for you in this passage?
2. Zacchaeus came down drom the tree at Jesus’ invitation. Similarly, the walls of Jerich came down when God spoke. What walls in your life need to come down to allow Christ into every area?
3. The crowd was stopping Zacchaeus from seeing Jesus. What barriers are stopping us from seeing Jesus?
4. Jesus said he has come to seek and save that which has been lost. How does that speak to you?

July 26th “Two people, two hearts” (Sally Murphy)
READ Luke 18v9-14
WATCH Sally’s sermon here
In this parable about the heart, Jesus talks about the prayers of two characters; A Pharisee and a tax collector.
The Pharisee’s prayer was self focussed, he was blinded to his need for a saviour, his confidence was in himself, he feels righteus by comparing himself to others. He saw God as his scorekeeper, but although leading a good life, his sin was one of pride and arrogance and a hard heart towards God.
The tax collector’s prayer was the opposite. He recognised his own sin and his need for a saviour. He was seeking God’s mercy.
Sslly shared that it is God alone who makes us righteus, we love because God first loved us (1 John 4v19). Based on this, we don’t judge others (one of the Pharisee’s faults). Our job is to share the good news of God’s unconditional love (grace) for us (See Ephesians 2v8,9)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Read Matt 23v23. What was the Pharisee doing well? If he joined the church, how could we encourage him to develop his faith in Jesus? What can we learn in our own loves from this Pharisee?
2. What did the tax collector get so right? What can we learn from him? If he joined the church, how could we encourage him in his journey?

July 19th M&M… “Mary & Martha” (Jasmine Bayley)
READ luke 10v38-42
WATCH Jasmine’s message here (starts 43:09)
If you didn’t hear Jasmine’s message, do take time to click on the above link and watch it through. It is really insightful as to the context of this conversation that Jesus had with Martha and also one that inspires us to think about how we can develop a heart and a lifestyle that reflects that of Mary.
It is interesting to note that sitting at Jesus’ feet, was seen as an act of worship. Sitting at his feet when there was work to be done was not something a woman was expected to do in that patriachal society! In his response, yet again, Jesus was breaking down social and religious barriers of the time.
Jasmine taught that although both M & M’s responses were very different, Jesus loved them both and that what he said was not a “get out of jail free card” to those who don’t want to lift a finger! It is more about priorities.
In a busy world absolutely full of distractions, the question has to be HOW do we prioritise sitting at the feet of Jesus? It is vital to realise the importance, the worth and the reward of doing this, because if we can, then we will be more likely to discipline ourselves to do it.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Martha had multiple distractions and did not want to stop at Jesus’ feet, whilst Mary stopped despite the pressure not to.
On a Martha to Mary scale (1 = Martha, 10= Mary), where are you?
Where would you like to be?
Practically, how can you get there? Does being accountable to each other (in a nice non judgemental way!) in this area help?

July 12th “Thoughts, words, deeds” (Simon)
READ Luke 10v27-35 the parable of the Good Samaritan
WATCH Simon’s message here (starts 39:41), with the parable told in a way it has never been told before!
This parable is told in the context of a conversation between Jesus and “an expert in the law,” who asked him, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” When Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength and all your mind… and love your neighbour as yourself,” (A summary of the Law, and a very big challenge!) the expert trying to justify himself then asked, “Who is my neighbour?” (v27-29)
It was in reply to this that Jesus told the parable, showing that his unconditional love transcends skin colour, ethnicity, beliefs and any other forms of intolerance we may wish to think of.
FOR DISCUSSION
Read the parable agin in the context of the above passage
1) Is there any justification for the Priest and Levite not helping the assaulted Jew?
2) Would you help someone who hated you?
3) How do we change our atitude and see people through the eyes of Jesus?
4) Does it help us if God looks upon us as his children; should we look at each other as brothers and sisters?

July 5th “See it like Simeon” (Tony M)
READ Luke 2v22-35
WATCH Tony’s message here (from 42:36)
What an inspirational account of a Holy Spirit led individual, showing how significant the small God-moments are.
Simeon: “Righteous and devout” v25 He was deeply committed
Simeon: Knew what he was waiting for (v25). The “consolattion of Israel” which in short means the Messiah
Simeon: Holy Spirit reliant (v25,26). The Holy Spirit was on him, the Holy Spirit revealed to him. the Holy Spirit moved him
Simeon: Saw what he was longing for (v28,29) as he took Jesus, the Messiah in his arms
Simeon recognised God’s salvation for all nations (v30-32)
Simeon said words that caised the parents of Jesus to marvel and which prepared Mary for his death on the cross (v33,34)
FOR DISCUSSION
1. What inspired you most about Simeon?
2. Practically, how can we encourage each other to become more like him in our every day lives? (Anna may also give us some inspiration on this one (see v36-38)

June 28th “The heart of the church” (Tony)
WATCH Tony’s message here (starts 49:44)
Tony shared in his sermon how the heart of the church shone through over the Fringe Fest time, more clearly than ever.
A heart of generosity, a heart to reach out, a heart of love, the heart of Jesus.
So many of us were involved in so many ways, every one of them significant, just as Paul talks about in his letter to the Ephesians, “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work” (4v16)
This is the heart that propels us forward, as day by day, weeek by week we reach out to our communities, our families, and the people who God is calling to himself through appoinments he has already made for us (See Eph 2v10). Tony encouraged us to keep going forward in this, because “love never fails” (1 Cor 13v8)
With this in mind, we need to be continually returning to the absolute unconditional love that God has for us. We read that we love, because he first loved us (1 John 4v9-19).
Like a rechargeable battery, we can only give what we have received, which is why daily sitting at the feet of Jesus in prayer is so vital for us.
FOR DISCUSSION
1. How were you involved in the Fringe Fest? Encourage each other in the significance of this.
2. What experience have you had of “God appointments” to share his love with others?
3. Read 1 John 4 v9-19. Look up what “atonement” means in v10? Why is this significant to us?
4. Think of 10 items that need to recharge. How do you “recharge as a Christian”? How do you manage to sit at his feet in a busy life?

June 21st Fringe Fest
This week’s discussion is on two things
Firstly Fringe Fest feedback: How did it go for you? What were your highlights of the whole event, including the lead up?
Secondly, on the Sunday service, Tony and Sally shared from the 4 Points booklet. Click here for the link (starts 45:30)
Click here for the 4Points website which goes through it really nicely
Go through this message and discuss each part. How does it help you understand and share the Gospel? Were there any parts you used over the weekend?

June 14th Ten things God is saying about next weekend
This Sunday, Tony shared ten prophetic words from last week’s pre fest prayer meeting. We are told that prophecy is an important gift of the Holy Spirit, and that it should be tested, so let’s take a look at ten prophetic words we received:
1. He has pre planned appointments for us
2. The message is very simple: “Do you want to follow Jesus”
3. Listen! To God’s unspoken words as we serve
4. Listen! Let people share their story
5. Be careful and tender with people
6. “This is where it will happen” as we looked out on the green
7. Stay rested in Jesus in the busyness of the weekend
8. Remember: We love because he first loved us
9. “The gift of music is given to to men and women and I am the orchestrator” Look at how David’s music ministered peace to a very troubled heart (1 Sam 16v14-23)
10. When our cries to God to save the lost meet with the desperate cries of the lost, we will see God move
We ended the message with a reminder to always have an answer for the hope that we have. “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect“
FOR DISCUSSION
Which of those ten prophetic words is resonating most with you? Why is this?
In being prepared (1 Peter 3v15), how would you answer the question, “Why are you doing this for free?“

7th June Fringe Benefits: A spiritual response to Fringe Fest 2026“
Today, we heard a story of Penny & Cos and their unforgettable festival trip to the foreign city of Mujerspael. It’s based on a true story and if you haven’t guessed, read Acts 2.
Also Romans 14v17, which tells us the kingdom of God is not about eating and drinking, but “righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit”
The main follow up of today’s service will be at a prayer time on Wednesday 7.30pm at the church, but there are also a few points below for you to chew over:
DISCUSSION
1. How could you imagine Pentecost playing out at this year’s Fringe Festival?
2. If we consider ourselves as “zeros” who line up behind “The One (true God)” then everyone who is involves matters. What does your role at this year’s Fringe Festival look like? What is your prayer and your vision for this event?

31st May Pentecost part 2: Dreams and visions (Tony Murphy)
READ Acts 2v14-21
WATCH Tony’s message here
Continuing the theme of Pentecost, Tony looked at what Joel prophesied centuries (4-800 years) before the Holy Spirit was poured out. These words were then quoted by Peter as he spoke to the crowd.
“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams.
Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.”
Look at the words in bold: A pouring, not a sprinkling. For all ages, for male and female, which covers everyone!
Prophecying is hearing what God says back as we pray. As we hear, we receive heaven’s keys into hearts and situations.
Dreams and visions are about seeing what heaven sees.
Tony then talked about his “Field of fun” vision, transforming our green into anarea that people will be attracted to as they walk past, with DJ music to go with our live bands, bouncy castle, giant jenga, giant connect-4, tables full of freebies and arches over the entrances. The vision is to attract people in, to share the good news and as we read in Acts 2, to “put Pentecost into this festival”
DISCUSSION
1. What did you take from the reading or the sermon?
2. What questions do you have?
3. What is your vision(s) in your life? The Fringe Fest? The church? Knowing it will enpower you to be effective and to overcome obstacles
4. Have you received words or “keys” from God which have opened up a situation, a conversation, or someone’s heart?

24th May Pentecost Sunday (Paul Beardmore)
READ Acts 2
WATCH Paul’s sermon here
Paul made some great points:
– Jesus tells us to “ask, to seek, to knock” when we want to receive and Paul reminded that in a world of instant response, it is important to remember to be patient when we do.
– The Holy Spirit came upon the disciples when they were together praying in one place (Acts 2v1). This creates the conditions for a move of God.
– Expect the atmosphere to change after an encounter with God as we see in chapter 2
– God’s Holy Spirit is for us all, male and female, young and old (v17)
DISCUSSION
What did you take from the reading or the sermon? What questions do you have? What experiences do you have of being baptised in the Holy Spirit? How can we encourage each other to be baptised in the Holy Spirt and to be regularly filled? Hint: For me at the start of each day, amongst otyher things, I always ask God to fill me, empower me and equip me with his Holy Spirit

17th May Wait Watch, Be Ready (Simon Judah)
READ Matthew 24 & 25
DISCUSSION
1. Until Jesus returns, what if anything, will you do for him in the meantime?
2. Have you faced or encountered persecution for your faith? If not, can you imagine being persecuted? How far would you allow yourself to be persecuted? Imagine being told, ‘Renounce your faith or you will die!’ Pray for your brothers and sisters being persecuted.
3. Have you seen or heard any false prophets? What did they say or claim? How would you know they were false?

10th May 2026 “A heart in his hands” (Tony Murphy)
READ Matthew 13v10-15
Watch Tony’s message here
We took a look at what it means to have callaused hands (manual workers and musicians!). Sometimes they can be helpful eg playing the guitar, but most of the time they don’t help, especially when our hearts become callaused.
Callauses are caused by “repeated pressure or friction” something that lifwe continually puts our way, so by definition it can be quite easy for our hearts to become callaused, and the bottom line is that God’s good good seed cannot grow well in a callaused heart. Remember what Jesus says: “For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.“
The main way to treat callaused hands is to “soak them in warm, soapy water.” Similarly, Jesus will heal calused hearts, as we soak in his unconditional love. Let us take time to intenentionally do this as we make space to pray each day.
FOR DISCUSSION
1. Share any experience you have (good or bad) of callauses. How did you treat them?
2. “Repeated friction or pressure” can cause callauses. What causes callauses in your heart?
3. Soaking in warm soapy water can heal them. Can you share things (large or small) that Jesus has healed in your heart as you have soaked in his presence

3rd May 2026: “Snatched, scorched, strangled or strong?” (Tony Murphy)
READ Matthew 13v1-23
WATCH Tony’s message here
Tony explained that God is planting good seeds in our lives whenever we spend time with him, both when we meet together and in our own daily prayer times. Ever seed planted has huge potential, but it’s growth depends on the soil it lands in.
In the reading, Jesus makes it clear that we need to be aware that we will all face trouble, persecution, worry and financial pressures and these are things in our lives which prevent his seed growing strong.
By understanding this can happen, we are in a much better place to deal with it.
DISCUSSION
1. Share what seeds God has planted in your heart recently
2. What are the things that stop it growing in your life? (see v20-23)
3. How can we look after what he sows?

26th Apr 2026: Two testimonies (Charis Bible College teams)
WATCH the testimonies here (30:22 & 47:30)
1. Click here for Gillian’s testimony on “overcoming through trusting in God’s word.”
During a really difficult time, she received a powerful Bible verse, Isaiah 54v11, which spoke right into her life.
“Afflicted city, lashed by storms and not comforted, I will rebuild you with stones of turquoise, your foundations with lapis lazuli.” (Isa 54v11)
Who has felt like this before? Look at the rebuilding promise, one to rebuild with beauty and quality.
FOR DISCUSSION: Do you have any verses you can share which have spoken into your life and changed the way you think?
2. Click here for Julie’s testimony on “Salvation,” explaining her journey of coming to know Jesus and the difference he makes. She explains from her own life how her eyes were opened as to why Jesus had to go to the cross and realised that the key to being a better person was to get closer to Jesus.
FOR DISCUSSION: What is the biggest difference knowing Jesus makes in your life?

19th Apr 2026 “A direction, a reminder and a promise” (Tony Murphy)
READ Matt 28v16-20
WATCH Tony’s message here
Continuing the Easter theme, today Tony speaks on Jesus’ final resurrection appearance before he ascended into heaven. Someone’s final words are always important to them. And this is certainly the case with Jesus.
In the final 2 verses jesus says 3 things
1. A direction: “Go and make disciples of all nations…”
2. A reminder: “Teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you…”
3. A promise: “Surely I am with you to the very end of the age.”
The direction is one that is our “north star”, to raise up and equip disciples in all we do.
The reminder to teach Jesus’ commands can be summed up in our recent reading of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), which Tony gave a 3 minute overview of
The promise is a wonderful one, that he will always be with us. We only need to remind ourselves of last week’s message of the way Jesus revealed himself to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. Reading Acts 1v8 shows us how Jesus intends to be with us by sending his Holy Spirit. This is something we will explore next weekend, especially on Friday evening at 7pm when we are joined by the team from Charis Bible College.
FOR DISCUSSION & ACTION
1. What questions or thoughts do you have from today’s reading and message?
2. Pre- read the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7). Share which section most speaks to you at this time?
3. Encourage and pray for each other to be filled with God’s Holy Spirit and to know the promised presence of God in our lives

12th Apr 2026 “Where is Jesus?” (Simon Judah)
READ Luke 24v13-35
WATCH Simon’s message here (starts on 46:00)
As the disciples had begun to do post crucifixion life, they were beginning to get used to being without Jesus, even though they had heard about Jesus appearing to certain people.
This is the story of what happened when the resurrected Jesus started walking alongside two of the disciples. Where is Jesus? He was right there and they didn’t recognise him
It was only when they stopped for a meal. Where is Jesus? He broke bread with them that they recognised him for who he was, the risen Saviour of the world.
From that point, they recognised, that he was risen, that he was there. So Where is Jesus today? His words to us are “I am with you, to the very end of the age” (Matt 28v20) He’s always been there! May our hearts recognise this.
The words of the song we sung together include, “Now my heart’s desire is to know you more.” If that is our heart’s desire, Jesus will honour it, so we may know his presence in every situation, as we meet together, if we feel alone, here to pray to, here waiting to be invited to do school, work, college, family and life.
PRAYER: Thank you that you are with me. As I reach out to you with all my heart, please give me the assurance of your presence and the strength to serve you today. Amen
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Where is Jesus in your life? In which situations do you most (and least) recognise his presence with you? Who encourages you on your walk? Are there any other ways that you can seek help on your journey?

EASTER SUNDAY “Did somebody say impossible”
READ John 20v24-29
The story of Thomas: WATCH here
Jesus achieved the impossible when he rose from the dead. One of his closest friends, Thomas certainly did not believe it, even when the other disciples kept telling him they had seen the Lord. “Unless I can put my finger where the nails went into his hands, I will not believe” were his words.
Well he was in for a huge surprise when Jesus next appeared to the disciples in a locked room and he was there. “My Lord and my God” were Thomas’ words
Once we recognise that the impossible happened, we ourselves can start looking to the God of the impossible for the “impossible things” in our lives. These could be for peace that seems out of our reach, for hope and a future, for a particular situation that we find ourselves in, or for loved ones to be saved. It could be small things or big things. Recently I was praying about a church situation which felt impossible and I felt Jesus smile and say, “Did somebody say impossible?“
Without Jesus, we can only achieve what is possible, but with eyes on him we can reach towards the impossible.
So how can we see the impossible in our lives? The key thing is to keep in step with the Spirit (Gal 5v25), because the impossible happens on his terms not ours. Even Jesus said, “I only do what I see my father doing” (John 5v17-20)
This Easter, let us open our eyes to see what God is doing. To do this, we must maintain a life of prayer. As we bring our requests to God, remember prayer is two way and God will speak back to us. Listen to what he puts on our heart along with the wise council of Christian friends and leaders, and go with it… even if it seems impossible.
DISCUSSION
1. Share what impossible things have you witnessed in your life as you have prayed?
2. Share what impossible things are you looking at? Let us encourage and pray for each other in this.

So was the resurrection impossible?
There is a film called The Case for Christ (Free to watch on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Youtube) about a journalist who tried to prove Jesus didn’t rise from the dead and he couldn’t do it.
Spoiler, he became a Christian!

Below are some key “proofs” of Jesus’ Resurrection

• The Empty Tomb: On the Sunday following the crucifixion, his tomb was found empty by a group of women. This is considered strong evidence because women’s testimony was not highly valued in that culture; if the story were a fabrication, it likely would have used men as the primary witnesses.
• Eyewitness Appearances: Multiple sources record that individuals and groups (ranging from single people to more than 500 at once) claimed to have seen, talked to, and even eaten with the risen Jesus over a period of 40 days.
• The Transformation of the Disciples: Following the crucifixion, the disciples were hiding and afraid. After their reported encounters with the risen Christ, they became bold and were willing to face persecution and martyrdom for their claim. People may die for what they believe is true, but rarely for something they know is a lie.
• The Conversion of Sceptics: Figures like James (Jesus’ brother) and Saul of Tarsus (later the Apostle Paul), who were previously hostile or sceptical, underwent radical transformations after claiming to have seen the risen Jesus.
• The Rapid Rise of the Early Church: Christianity began in Jerusalem—the very city where Jesus was publicly executed—and spread rapidly despite intense opposition.
• The Lack of a Body: If the resurrection stories were false, the easiest way for Roman or Jewish authorities to silence the movement would have been to produce Jesus’ body, yet they never did.

29th March PALM SUNDAY “Looking ahead to the cross” (Tony Anderson)
READ John 13v1-17
WATCH Tony’s message here
On this Palm Sunday, Tony unpacks some of the events of Easter week.
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, he was hailed as the Messiah, but the worldly view was that he would be a political Messiah, setting up a Jerusalem centred kingdom. The heavenly view was something far more significant. He would be the one to bring Salvation (freedom from sin) to the whole world.
From the reading, he shared that Jesus took off his robe (his identity), he got right down on the floor (adopting the posture of a slave) and he washed his disciples feet. At this point, he humbled himself, as he did fully on the cross on Good Friday (see Phil 2v5-11).
DISCUSSION (Choose from)
1. Read John 13v1-17. How does this speak to you?
2. What questions or thoughts do you have from Tony’s message?
3. Imagine Jesus humbled himself to wash your feet. How might you feel? How might you respond? How do you respond to him humbling himself on the cross to wash your very soul clean?

22nd March: “Moving forwards with a heart of care and compassion” (John 2v1-7) Peter Herman (NYP)
READ John 2v1-7
WATCH Peter’s message here
Peter chose this passage, because it demonstrated that much of what Jesus did was not a planned event. He allowed himself to be interupted by people because of his heart of compassion, something that can be an inspiration to us in our Christian walk.
Peter shared that it is care, compassion and conviction, not control that is key to allowing God to move through us. Read 1 Cor 13v1 to see what can happen when we don’t have care and compassion!
He shared that pushing too hard on a door (striving) can actually be counterproductive, when sometimes what we need to do is to prayerfully step back, allowing Jesus to gently push the door open. That is what it looks like to give Jesus the control. When Jesus does something through us like this, it can appear effortless!
Peter reminded that Jesus said, “My yoke is easy” (Matt 11v28-30). Serving Jesus is a delicate balance between striving and doing nothing.
He also shared that he meets a lot of young people who are praying desperate prayers and believes that when the cries meet our “Here I am Lord” prayers of availability, we will always see God move.
DISCUSSION:
1. We see God move when we do things out of a heart of compassion. Try looking this word up and also what whappened when compassion was involved. Here’s a few for starters: Matthew 20:34; Mark 6v34; Luke 7:13
2. Share times you have seen God move in a situation when you have stepped back and acted with care and compassion.
3. Pray for the young people of our town to know our God of care and compassion

15th March 2026 “Such a great salvation”
READ Hebrews 2v1-4
WATCH Tony’s message here
The word “Salvation” first used in chp 2v3 is a recurring theme through Herbrews, which reads, “How shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation?“

Looking at exactly what it means helps us to fully grasp the amazingness and the depth of what a personal relationship with Jesus brings to our lives.
Salvation comes from the the Greek word Soteria, which has a very full and rounded meaning and occurs about 50 times in the New Testament

The ultimate meaning is “Saving from sin and it’s consequences.” Jesus came down to lift us up! And only he can do this. But there is so much more. It also means liberation, healing, rescue, deliverance, restoration, release and significantly in today’s culture, something that is so important to so many, wellbeing
DISCUSSION QUESTION
Think about the full meaning of the Salvation that Jesus brings.
Share which word of this is most significant to you in your current circumstances and the hope that brings?

8th March 2026 Tony Murphy speaking on “The unstoppable calling continues“
READ Acts 28v23-31
WATCH Tony’s message here
The book of Acts ends with Paul’s dramatic prison ship journey to Rome, where he was put under house arrest. In this passage we read, that even under house arrest, “Paul witnessed to them from morning till evening” 
His, along with the whole of the early church was an unstoppable calling to share about Jesus.
And now that same calling is ours and it’s still unstoppable. In fact that is the test of a true calling, recognising that we can help share the Gospel by caring for, praying for, and encouraging others, giving into the work of the church, and taking every opportunity to witness to those around us. Even the “Spring vision” to make the building reflect the beauty of God is a kingdom calling.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What stood out for you in this scripture and message?
2. What is your unstoppable calling? Share how it works out for you, despite the difficulties you may face.

1st March 2026 Sally Murphy speaking on “A calling for all circumstances”
READ Acts 3v6; 19v15-16; 20v24; John 3v16,17
WATCH Sally’s message here
We can be pulled in many directions in life, so it is important to know what God has called us to and hold onto this in all circumstances. Sally’s message looks at what Paul’s calling was and how it worked through into his life. Paul’s calling was to share the Good News of the Gospel with the Gentiles (non Jews), a huge and significant calling, given that this had never happened before. Once he knew this calling, nothing could stop him, not beatings, not persecution, not prison, not storms or shipwrecks. His calling was never a job or a role, it was what inspired him to get up each day!
Similarly, Sally shared how her calling to lovingly lead people towards Jesus, to be a chaplain to those around her, not as a job role, but something she has always done in whatever setting she finds herself.
DISCUSSION
1. What do you believe your calling is and how is this worked out in the place and circumstances you find yourself today?
2. What bible verse or principle helps you to keep your calling in focus?

22nd Feb 2026 Simon Judah speaking on “Jailbreak!”
READ Acts 16v22-34
WATCH Simon’s message here (starts 41:00)
How can two men who have been beaten to within an inch of their lives and then thrown and chained in the darkest innermost cell be singing praises to God in literally their darkest hour? The outworking of this was huge, as we watch God move in power, chains break ,prison doors swing open, and whole households receive Jesus as their saviour.
FOR DISCUSSION
1. In this passage, which characters do you like and which ones don’t you like? 2. Is there any grace’ in this passage if so who shows it or where is it? 3. What can we learn about circumstances and attitude?

15th Feb 2026: Tony Murphy on Acts 15v1-11 “The big key to living an authentic Christian life”
READ Acts 15 v1-11
WATCH Tony’s message on it here
What we hear today was good news for the early church, good news for the thousands who were coming to Jesus… and good news for us today.
It begins with the early church coming under pressure to live a legalistic style of faith, relying on religious observance and ritual. But the disciples recognised they needed to live by grace (God’s unconditional love) alone.
The key is found in v11, “Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved“
Walking the tightrope of the obeying the letter of the law to the n^th degree, in order to gain God’s favour is a load no one could ever or can ever bear! Legalism (that’s what it is) won’t get us to God, but be warned, it will destroy us trying!
And it is in Acts 15 that the young church officially came to that realisation, writing letters to all the churches (v24-29), explaining * We’re goin down the road of grace, not the Jewish legalistic road” with some strong advice about avoiding things  that were linked with pagan worship of false gods at the time.
Tony shared that it is only by living a grace filled life we can be ourselves and not the religious version of ourselves.
He shared his story of how he discovered the life changing truth that he is unconditionally loved by God and that knowing this has made it possible to like himself, and to be real and authentic.
Tony is recommending a grace MoT this Lent, taking a daily moment to meditate on a different grace passage each week (while letting a piece of chocolate melt in his mouth). That combined with comitting to the Navigators 555 reading scheme will really make this season of Lent significant.
FOR DISCUSSION
1. What stood out for you in this scripture and message? 2. What difference does God’s grace (unconditional love) make to you in your faith, in your life, in being authentic?
CONSIDER: Sharing communon together in your groups as a way of remembering God’s unconditional love for you
RESOURCES: The “Enjoying God’s Grace” book by Terry Virgo is excellent

8th February 2026: Suzi on Acts 5v1-11: A significant moment
Suzi looks at a difficult passage, citing something that happened as the church was beginning to grow, helping us to see that we serve a God who knows our hearts and who puts truth above image.
WATCH Suzi’s message here (starting 41:30)
READ Acts 4v31-Acts 5v11
So Annanias and Saphira both independently lie to the church and to God when they really didn’t need to, clearly wanting to appear more generous than they really were, thinking about their image. What happened clearly demonstrates that as the church grew, God wanted it to be established on higher principles. Suzi pointed out that Jesus died for our sins so that we no longer have to pretend. He loves us as we are.
Following the death of Ananias and Saphira, we read that, “Great fear seized the whole church…” But the fear of the Lord” that the Bible talks about is one of awe and reverence, it is one that ultimately anchors us and helps us to grow. It is a biblical concept representing deep reverence, awe, and respect for God’s holiness, power, and authority rather than terrifying dread. It is described as a, positive, life-affirming, and foundational virtue (the “beginning of wisdom” Proverbs 9v10) that motivates obedience, holiness, and a desire to avoid sin.
FOR DISCUSSION
1. How does the fear of the Lord differ from being afraid? 2. How does the fear of the Lord help us in everyday life?

1st February 2026 Simon on Acts 3
WATCH Simon’s message here (starting 38:15)
READ Acts 3v1-10
Our church Bible reading scheme has now taken us to the book of Acts. In chapter 1 we have the promise of God’s Holy Spirit, chapter 2 the outpouring and chapter 3 we hear about what started to happen.
We read about Peter and John being asked by a lame man for money. Peter famously answered him, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you…” The man was instantly healed. This shows us that the more of Jesus we have in our lives, the more we have to give to others. This week, let us pray that we overflow with Jesus to the people around us by the power of his Holy Spirit.
FOR DISCUSSION
1. How were the disciples able to do this miracle? 2. Where have you seen people speak boldly for Jesus? 3. Are you shy about Jesus or do you talk about him to non Christians? 4. How do you feel about getting into or about being “in the boat” with Jesus?

25th Jan 2026 “What happens away from the crowd” (Mark 8v14-29)
WATCH Tony’s message here
READ Mark 8v14-21 & 27-29
This is the sequel to the previous week when we saw the difference between being part of the crowd and being a disciple.
In the readings, we see that Jesus spent quality time with his disciples away from the crowd, and this is where the teaching, the challenges and the discussion went on. This is an important picture for church, showing how vital small groups are for growing as a disciple of Jesus.
In v14-21 we see that in this small group setting, Jesus starts a conversation, where teaching follows. he invites questions and answers them
In v 27-29, it is in a small group setting where he challenges the group, “Who do you say I am?” It is in this setting that Peter first announces that, “You are the Christ,” a message that he went onto preach to thousands of people.
Similarly, significant conversations might start in the church “crowd” environment, but finish in a small group setting.
DISCUSSION:
1. What did the disciples learn in today’s reading?
2. In reading Mark’s Gospel, what other things have you seen disciples learn in small group settings?
3. Share any key interactions (challenges, discussion, encouragements) you have had with Jesus in a small group setting

18th Jan 2026 “From crowd to disciple” (Mark 8v1-10)
WATCH Tony’s message here (starts @51:40)
READ Mark 8
Tony started by reminding us that in our church vision, the “North star”,the direction on our journeying together is “becoming disciples”, and then went on to look at how the account of Jesus feeding the 4,000 in Mark 8 demonstrated something about the difference between being a disciple and being a part of the crowd. These included:
1. Sharing both the problem and his heart with the disciples, but not the crowd v1,2
2. Listening to the earthly problems the disciples had v4, and working with them on his solution, teaching them to see through the eyes of faith v5-7.
3. Doing the “afterwards”, the “tidy up”, ie finishing the job with the disciples after the crowd had gone.
4. Continuing the journey with his disciples by inviting them into a boat, after the crowd had been sent home
The final point demonstrates that the disciples didn’t just come to an event, but they journeyed on with Jesus.
RESPONSE: Listen to the lyrics of this song we sing afterwards, “When the stage is bare tonight.” Can you turn them into a “journeying on with Jesus” prayer?
DISCUSSION: What does it mean to you to journey on and to get in the boat with Jesus? How do we or did we make the transition from Jesus seeking crowd to disciple?

11th Jan 2026 “Press on” (Philippians 3v7-14)
WATCH Darcy’s message here
Darcy shared about his own personal walk with God at a time of making significant decisions, saying that he thought it was path A or path B, but in actual fact, “God opened a pathway I could never have anticipated!” challenging us, are you committed to journeying into the future with God and also encouraging us to rely on God and those “simple momemts when we hear him.”
Quoting from his favourite film trilogy, he shared that for Darth Vader, choices kept coming and how he eventually making the right one!
He also shared Isaiah 43v18,19, an invitation to forget the former things, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.“
READ Phil 3v7-14 and Isa 43v18,19
DISCUSS
1. What stands out for you from the readings or from Darcy’s message?
2. (For Star Wars fans!) How would Darth Vader’s life have been better if he’d made the right choice sooner?
3. Share choices you are making and how you are bringing God into these?
4. Are there times when God brought some new choices into your mix?
5. Pray for each other in any choices that we are having to make at the moment

4th Jan 2026 “A response to God’s amazing love”
Watch Tony’s message here (Part 1 timestamp, part 2 timestamp)
1. Sally and Tony introduced the Navigators 555 Bible reading scheme To access this lick on the link or contact Tony for a paper copy
2. We shared communion, the best way of reminding ourselves that God loves us unconditionally (read John 3v16, Rom 4v25, 1 John 3v1),
3. We looked at our response to this unconditional love. In Matthew 2v11, we read that the Magi “saw the child, and they bowed down and worshiped him.” They presented him with costly gifts. We asked the question, what is your best gift? We looked at offering him our time, our money, our whole self as an act of worship (see Romans 12v1).
This was followed by giving us the chance to rommit our lives to Jesus at the start of the year, using a prayer taken from the chorous of Jesus it is you, below
I lift my hands
I bring my song
All of my days
All of my rights,
all of my wrongs
I offer my life
Here and beyond
To the One thing true
Jesus it is You
DISCUSSION: In your groups, reflect on the above 3 points. Share how you have responded personally

PREVIOUS SEASONS: These are free and helpful resources for anyone to use.

Summer & Autumn 2025

June 2025 Embracing Pentecost

Introducing the 4 Points leaflet

LENT 2025: Journeying Together through the desert

Journeying Together into 2025

Making the most of Lent 2022
“Emmanuel God with us” Jan 2022 https://ctr-iow.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Emmanuel-God-with-us.pdf

Rest & Recovery 2021 https://ctr-iow.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Growing-in-God-season-3-Rest-^0-recovery.pdf

Restoration & Rebuilding 2021 https://ctr-iow.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Season-4-Restoration-and-Rebuilding.pdf