Basingstoke Church

Kingdom culture is one that is paradoxical in relation to the world’s power, so as we enter into the Kingdom, Matthew 5: 1-12 explores the ways we are to be as citizens and holders of the keys that wield great power.

Here we see the announcement, the heralding of something new that is to be unpacked over the coming chapters; namely the Kingdom. Here its key markers are a call for a decisive response in repentance, the call to follow Jesus, and the breakthrough of healing (wholeness/completion/salvation).

The journey ends in God’s dwelling among His people. When Solomon dedicates the temple, the cloud fills it; a picture of God’s permanent dwelling. Revelation shows the ultimate fulfilment: 'Now the dwelling of God is with men.' The goal of following the cloud is not endless movement but eternal communion.

In 1 Samuel, Israel carries the ark into battle, assuming God will go with them, but His presence is not a tool to be used. True power comes from relationship, not ritual. A reminder always to do everything moving with God’s presence.

The presence of God moves toward the Jordan, and the people must follow into the unknown. Faith requires stepping into the waters before they part.

God’s Spirit leads His children. What was external for Israel is now internal for believers. The same Spirit who led Israel by the cloud now leads us as sons and daughters of God. The Spirit’s guidance is rooted in relationship, not formula.

God is working even in the waiting. Moses waits six days on the mountain before God speaks. Waiting seasons are not wasted; they form faith, trust, and dependence. The waiting place is still holy ground.

The people of Israel didn’t decide when to move; they followed the cloud. The same is true for us - our direction, timing, and security come from staying close to His presence. Following God starts with learning to watch for His movement.

Look around you, join a team, get together with others, serving God isn’t an individual thing, we are created to make an impact when we work together in unity, each playing our part.

Don’t compare, don’t try and be someone else, you are called to use what God has given you but always rooted in using that in a way that glorifies God.

John shares how each of us can play our part in the work God is doing here in Basingstoke. If you feel God stirring you to give financially to support the work happening here, either as a one off donation or a regular amount, the easiest way is through https://www.basingstoke.church/give

We are not called as Christians to bear fruit, we are called to abide in Jesus and then we will bear fruit. Following your calling is about always coming back to abiding in Jesus rather than striving to bear fruit.

Jesus only did what he saw the father do. We too should look to him as we offer life in His name.

It is easy to pray and wait and pray and wait, but we are also called to trust in the Lord’s promises and go. If you are looking to see how you can serve God, then pray and step out and see what doors open as you start moving forward.

Jesus has defeated Satan, and His victory is shared by His people.

Jesus’ kingdom is declared and celebrated in heaven, showing His ultimate rule. With guest speaker Rev’d Dr Grace Bally-Balogun.

Jesus reigns over history, including judgment. His power is inescapable.

Jesus, the slain but victorious Lamb, is worthy to open the scroll and execute God’s plan

John, the writer of Revelation, receives a vision of the risen Jesus, revealing him as the glorified Son of Man, full of power and authority.

We see that God is on the move by His Holy Spirit. God doing something new, right here and now, and we are invited to be all in!

The Name That Reigns - Jesus’ name is exalted above every power and authority. His reign is secure in heaven and over all creation.

Jesus’ name has authority over evil and brokenness, bringing restoration and freedom.

The name of Jesus and the message of the cross are foolishness to the world but are the power and wisdom of God. His name humbles human pride and wisdom.

The name of Jesus demands allegiance. It brings division because it forces a choice — neutrality is not an option. We are choosing to lift Jesus’ name against divided loyalties and worldly wisdom.

The name of Jesus disrupts darkness and injustice. It upends spiritual strongholds and confronts oppressive systems.