Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior. the Lord Jesus Christ. who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body. by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Philippians 3:20-21 The human body is lowly. The human body, at its strongest, is still fragile. Even if you are really fit, and you …

In today's episode, we delve into the The Lord's Supper (Communion), exploring the question: Where is the meal in this humble supper of wafer (bread) and wine? What does it mean to truly 'feed' on Christ? How do we engage in the nourishment of our souls through such a minimal feast? Pastor Colin guides us through the essence of this ceremony, revea…

We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the irstfruits of the Spirit. groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons. the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Romans 8:22-24 All religions have some belief in li…

The Word became lesh and dwelt among us. John 1:14 God became a man in Christ Jesus. The body of Jesus was like ours. He grew in strength—from a baby, to a child, to a man—and He knew what it was like to be hungry, thirsty, and weary. The first heresy, the first false teaching that the early church had to contend with, was not the denial that Jesus…

Today we delve into an enlightening discussion on the essence of the Christian life—that it is God's work in which we become involved, rather than our work in which He becomes involved. We explore the temptation of focusing on our own deeds to the extent that we might lose sight of the divine workings of God. Pastor Colin Smith brings to light the …

The LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. and the man became a living creature. Genesis 2:7 God made the body of Adam from the dust of the ground, and then He breathed the breath of life into this body. So, Adam was the union of a body and a soul. This is the reason that the Bible sometim…

Welcome to Open The Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. Today, Pastor Colin will be exploring a thought-provoking definition of sin as being 'bent in on oneself'. With the illuminating guidance of the Scriptures and the insightful reflections of historical figures like Augustine, we'll consider how sin distorts our human condition, causing us to focus i…

"It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega. the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment." Revelation 21:6 Here are two things to reconsider in the light of heaven: First, if you are holding back from full commitment to Jesus: However hard it is for you to come to Christ in repentance, ho…

In Galatians Chapter 5, verse 6, we read that faith's true essence is revealed through actions of love rather than faith alone. But why is this distinction so vital? Pastor Colin explores the significance of faith that manifests itself through love, emphasizing that without love, faith is simply not authentic. We'll discover that Christ-like faith …

I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. Revelation 21:2 There will be no marriage in heaven (Matt. 22:30), but we will still be male and female, because that is how God created us and it was good. The gift of marriage was given to point to something greater that God has in…

In this broadcast, Pastor Colin delves into the importance of actively engaging with the scripture as it's the fundamental means by which God communicates with us. At the heart of the preaching ministry is the firm belief that God blesses His own words, not ours. As followers of Christ, we're encouraged to come to the Bible expectantly, ready to be…

“But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with ire and sulfur. which is the second death." Revelation 21:8 Precisely when God is telling us about the new heaven and new earth, He also tells us that He will separat…

"Neither shall there be mourning. nor crying. nor pain anymore. for the former things have passed away." Revelation 21:4 You will not spend eternity grieving over your past sins and missed opportunities. We will never forget that we were sinners because we will always be finding joy in the Lamb who was slain, the Son of God who redeemed us by the s…

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." Revelation 21:4 Notice what will be gone, subtracted, taken away in heaven. All these things—death, mourning, and pain—are passing away. You will not find or experience th…

Today, Pastor Colin illuminates the importance of how we listen to God's Word, proposing that the manner in which we engage with scripture is reflective of our relationship with God. Whether we listen passively, defensively or eagerly, it makes a world of difference. It's not just about knowing God, but being aware of our changing attitudes towards…

"Behold, I am making all things new." Revelation 21:5 Life in the new heaven and new earth will not be less than the life you have now. It will be more! The word "new" can be used in two ways. The first is to say, “I’m moving to a new house.” You are in a different place, and there is no continuity between your old house and your new house. The sec…

Today we're delving into a subject that many of us might think we already know well—the gospel, our faith, and our relationship with Jesus Christ. Yet, Pastor Colin will challenge us to look beyond mere familiarity and explore the true depths and implications of our faith. Is it possible that in knowing all about the gospel, we may actually have mi…

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. Revelation 21:1 Satan’s master strategy is to have people think that what lies ahead will be far less than what we have now. He wants you to believe that your life would be less if it were in God’s hands. If you believe the life you have now is better than the future life you will have in the presence of God…

It's wonderful to have you with us as we delve into the essence of faith and its role in our justification. Pastor Colin explains that faith is the profound bond that unites us to Jesus Christ. It's not merely acknowledging the existence of God or the historical fact of Jesus' death and resurrection. Even the Devil is aware of these truths. Instead…

“Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory." John 17:24 Will we see our believing loved ones in heaven? Yes. But here’s the bigger question: Will Jesus see His believing loved ones in heaven? Yes! When Jesus was preparing to go to the cross, He prayed this prayer: “Father, I desire that they…

Today's episode journeys through the profound truths found within Psalm 23, revealing how embracing the Lord as our shepherd enriches our lives with His boundless grace. Discover the meaning of Jesus' promise: "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." Uncover how this promise shapes our identity as His sheep—constantly guided a…

Seven witnesses from the Bible point to our knowing one another in heaven, and here are our sixth and seventh witnesses. Witness #6—Paul and the Thessalonians: Paul says that believers whom he loved and served on earth will be his joy and crown in heaven. So, the special relationship forged between Paul and these believers on earth will continue in…

Have you ever felt weary, drained, or just flat out exhausted? When life runs you down, and you're in need of refreshment, Psalm 23 reminds us to recall all that is ours in the Lord Jesus Christ. Join us as Pastor Colin Smith explores the abundant blessings and the enduring promises we possess when we can boldly declare, "The Lord is my shepherd." …

Seven witnesses from the Bible point to our knowing one another in heaven. and here are our fourth and fifth witnesses. Witness #4—Moses and Elijah: “Behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him [Jesus]” (Matt. 17:3). When Moses and Elijah appeared on the Mount of Transfiguration, they did not have the resurrection body. Even n…

Seven witnesses from the Bible point to our knowing one another in heaven, and here are our second and third witnesses. Witness #2—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob: “Many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 8:11). Notice the clear identity of these men—Abraham is Abraham in heav…

After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. Revelation 7:9 The distinct identity of every person in this vast crowd is maintained. They are from every tribe, nation, and language. The distinct individuality …

Today Colin will be guiding us through the three comforting images presented in Psalm 23 – the table, the oil, and the cup – each symbolising the various elements of God's sustaining love. Whether you're feeling depleted, purposeless, or joyless, this message aims to renew your spirit and realign you with the strength, purpose, and joy found in Jes…

"They are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence." Revelation 7:15 God will shelter—literally, spread His tent—over His people. Imagine a massive piece of canvas that will be shaped into a tent. He shakes it out so that it falls over all His people, in a…

Feeling weary? Struggling with the weight of responsibilities or just the day-to-day grind? You're not alone, and today's message from Psalm 23:5 is particularly for you: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” In this episode, Pastor Colin will unpack how, just as the Lord susta…

Behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" Revelation 7:9-10 John …

There's no denying that life's path often meanders through seasons of profound darkness – be it the daunting shadows of depression, unemployment, loss, or illness. Whatever your valley, rest assured, the Scriptures hold out a comforting hand to guide you through. Pastor Colin Smith is here to show us how the Lord, as our faithful shepherd, never ab…

I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. They cried out with a loud voice, "O Sovereign Lord. Holy and true. How long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?" Revelation 6:9-10 There is a good-better-best pattern to the Christian life. To …

Pastor Colin delves into our shared destiny with death, revealing how Psalm 23:4 guides us not only through life but also through our darkest moments. For believers, this Psalm assures that Christ accompanies us in all realms, offering solace with His rod and staff. Whether we're bracing against life's shadows or the very valley of the shadow of de…

"They. are like angels in heaven." Mark 12:25 In what way will we be like the angels in heaven? Angels are spirits without bodies, though they occasionally appeared to people in the Bible with a temporary body. God has given us life in this world through the union of a body and a soul. Death is the separating of the soul from the body. So, the acti…

Today we delve into a discussion familiar to all of us: the feeling of having faltered. From the weariness dealt by injustice to the depletion of prolonged struggles, life can indeed drain us. But fear not, there is a way to restoration, and it is found through God's unfailing ability to restore our souls. In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin will sh…

My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. Philippians 1:23 Now, some have seized on the fact that the Bible sometimes describes death as sleep (1 Cor. 15:51) and have suggested that the souls of believers go to sleep when they die. Please remember that what sleeps is not the soul, but the body. The body is laid to rest unti…

Today you will be with me in paradise." Luke 23:43 What was death like for the thief? And what does the experience of a Christian believer look like immediately after death? Jesus promised that the thief would be with Him, and He said that it would be today. In other words, Jesus was Jesus died before the thief, and He committed His spirit into the…

"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Luke 23:34 Today the thief is in heaven and the reason is not that he was without sin or that he lived a good enough life. The thief is in heaven because Jesus paid the price for his sin and gave him eternal life. What Jesus did for the thief, He is able to do for you. But remember, there were…

Today we're delving into the comforting promise that the Lord restores our souls. In a world where our faith can sometimes wane and our ardour may cool, we'll explore how God Himself is committed to reviving and renewing our spirits. For many of us, our walk with the Lord has seen better days. We might feel like we've lost the peace and joy we once…

"You will be with me in paradise." Luke 23:43 This is the promise of the Saviour to every person who places their trust in Him. So turn to Him, ask of Him, and take Him at His word. Trusting Jesus will involve trusting Him in three very challenging circumstances: Trusting Jesus in the darkness Immediate after the thief trusted Jesus, “there was dar…

In today's broadcast, we delve into the depths of understanding how God guides us through life's journey—not only during the serenity of calm waters but also through the daunting valleys and in the presence of adversaries. Pastor Colin eloquently discusses the profound truths hidden within Psalm 23, articulating how the right path, aligned with rig…

“Remember me when you come into your kingdom." Luke 23:42 This was an audacious request. The thief did not say, “I know I’ve made some mistakes, but nobody’s perfect, and I’ve done a lot of good things in my life.” He said, “We are receiving the due reward of our deeds” (23:41). This man asked Jesus with honesty and humility. He faced the fact that…

Hello and a warm welcome to all our listeners! We're thrilled to carry on with our series, The Lord Is My Shepherd, inspired by the profound truths of Psalm 23. In today's episode, we take a closer look at the concept of divine guidance and how the Lord invariably steers us on our journey. It's both comforting and empowering to grasp the reality th…

The robbers who were cruciied with him also reviled him in the same way. Matthew 27:44 One thief continued to hurl insults at Jesus, but a change came over the other. The Bible calls this change repentance. Every change has a beginning, and the story of the thief shows us where repentance begins. The thief had been hurling abuse at Jesus, but then …

In this broadcast, Pastor Colin delves into the meaning of ownership and belonging as he discusses the comforting assurance that "The Lord is my Shepherd." What does it mean to be fully owned by Christ? And what blessings are inherently ours as members of His flock? These questions will be addressed as we learn how being shepherded by Jesus grants …

Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. Luke 23:32 The day you die may be a long way off, but nothing is more certain… it will come. One day you will wake up and it will be your last day on earth. What will happen to you then? The story of the thief on the cross tells us how we can be sure about heaven. We are not…

Welcome to "Open the Bible" with Pastor Colin Smith. Today, we're delving into the much-adored Psalm 23 – a chapter that has brought hope and solace to countless believers over three millennia. Today, we explore why this Psalm resonates so deeply and how it can uplift us in times of weariness and discouragement. The Lord as our shepherd is a recurr…

He was... a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. ISAIAH 53:3 John Stott comments so helpfully on the sufferings of Jesus in a moving passage from his book called The Cross of Christ: I could never myself believe in God, if it were not for the cross... In the real world of pain, how could one worship a God who was immune to it? I have entered m…

How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? PSALM 13:1-2 The mind of Christ was saturated with these psalms. He would have recited them in the synagogue. He used them. He experience…

I have trusted in your steadfast love. PSALM 13:5 David is not feeling the love of God. He has been quite candid about that: “How long will you hide your face from me?” (13:1). Now, he moves beyond what he feels to what he knows: God’s steadfast love. This is love that lasts, love you can count on. God’s love for you had no beginning; it will have …