Hamilton Road Presbyterian Church

Passage: Acts 17 Date: 23 February 2020 Speaker: Sam Castles Summary: In Acts, we see Paul passionately engaging with the people of Athens, challenging us to share our faith with awareness, flexibility, and humility. His example invites us to recognise our own motivations and the cultural philosophies around us. By being open to conversations and ready to connect with others, we can witness how ev...

Passage: Joshua 20:1-9 Date: 23 February 2020 Speaker: Frank McKeown Summary: We reflect on the profound mercy of God as illustrated through the cities of refuge in Scripture. These cities were places of safety for those who had unintentionally harmed others, highlighting God’s desire for justice tempered with grace. Similarly, Jesus stands as our ultimate refuge, offering forgiveness and sa...

Passage: John 4 Date: 16 February 2020 Speaker: Ben Johnston Summary: Engaging in faith conversations can feel daunting, but the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman shows us how simple and profound they can be. Jesus meets her at the well, breaking down cultural barriers to offer her living water—eternal life. As we reflect on this passage, we’re invited to consider who in our lives might...

Passage: Joshua 14:6-15 Date: 16 February 2020 Speaker: Ian McKee Summary: Caleb’s story reminds us that unwavering faith and wholehearted devotion can lead to extraordinary outcomes, regardless of age. At 85, he confidently declared his strength and commitment to God, inspiring us to trust in divine promises, even amidst challenges. As we navigate our own lives, let’s reflect on wheth...

Passage: Luke 5:27-32 Date: 9 February 2020 Speaker: Craig Jackson Summary: In Luke 5, Levi’s encounter with Jesus reminds us that following Him transforms how we see others. Rather than focusing solely on our own preferences, we’re invited to use our everyday meals as opportunities to share joy and connection. Embracing the gospel means opening our tables to those who feel like outsiders, r...

Passage: Joshua 7 Date: 9 February 2020 Speaker: Roy Patton Summary: In the journey through Joshua, we encounter a significant shift in chapter 7, where the Israelites face defeat due to Achan’s sin, reminding us that our actions have wider consequences. The passage highlights the dangers of overconfidence, complacency, and prayerlessness—challenges that can hinder our spiritual growth. Ulti...

Passage: 1 Thessalonians 2:6-17 Date: 2 February 2020 Speaker: Roy Patton Summary: When we receive good news, like a new job or the arrival of a baby, we instinctively want to share it. Yet, many of us hesitate to share the transformative message of Jesus, often out of fear or uncertainty. Drawing from Paul’s example in 1 Thessalonians, we’ll explore how personal relationships and integrity...

Passage: Joshua 5, 6 Date: 2 February 2020 Speaker: Ben Johnston Summary: In Joshua 5 and 6, we discover that the battle for Jericho wasn’t fought by Joshua but was won by the Lord through unexpected means. This teaches us that the struggles we face in life are part of a greater spiritual battle, one where we must rely on God’s promises and obey His word, even when the instructions see...

Passage: Joshua 4:1-24 Date: 26 January 2020 Speaker: Frank McKeown Summary: In Joshua 4, we learn about the significance of memorial stones set up by the Israelites after crossing the Jordan. These stones were meant to remind future generations of God’s miraculous power and faithfulness. Just like the Israelites, we too can forget the goodness of God, especially if we neglect to share these...

Passage: Joshua 3:1-17 Date: 19 January 2020 Speaker: Ian McKee Summary: As the Israelites approached the Jordan River, they faced the daunting challenge of crossing a powerful obstacle. This moment teaches us about the importance of preparing spiritually, expecting God’s amazing work, and recognising His constant presence in our lives. Just as they were called to consecrate themselves and f...

Passage: – Date: 12 January 2020 Speaker: Paul Bailie Summary: In this week’s sermon, we explore the challenging narratives of war in the Old Testament, particularly focusing on the conquest of Canaan. These stories prompt us to confront the depths of human sin and the serious nature of evil. Understanding God’s timing and justice in these accounts not only sheds light on the his...

Passage: Joshua 2:1-24 Date: 12 January 2020 Speaker: Ben Johnston Summary: In the story from Joshua 2, we meet Rahab, a prostitute who takes a bold stand by hiding Israel’s spies and ultimately seeks refuge in the God she comes to recognise as powerful and merciful. Her actions demonstrate that no one is beyond redemption and that faith can lead to unexpected blessings. This passage invites...

Passage: – Date: 5 January 2020 Speaker: Ben Johnston Summary: Christ’s presence in our lives transforms us from the inside out, much like a new homeowner renovates their space. When we truly submit to Him, we experience a profound change—out with old habits, in with new, life-giving characteristics. This week, reflect on how Christ’s peace should guide your heart and how His word can...

Passage: Joshua 1: 1-18 Date: 5 January 2020 Speaker: Roy Patton Summary: As we step into a new year filled with change, the story of Joshua offers us vital lessons. God reminds us to honour the past but encourages us to move forward without being anchored by it. Just as He promised Joshua that He would be with him, we too can trust that God’s faithfulness continues to guide us through every...

Passage: – Date: 29 December 2019 Speaker: Terry Laverty Summary: As we reflect on Isaiah’s promise that those walking in darkness have seen a great light, consider what that means for your life and the year ahead. Jesus, described as our Wonderful Counsellor and Prince of Peace, offers transformative hope and guidance. Embrace the truth that God is able to meet your needs and provide...

Passage: 1 Kings 20:26-30 Date: 29 December 2019 Speaker: Frank McKeown Summary: As we reflect on 1 Kings 20, we’re reminded that God is not just a God of triumphs in high places, but also in our everyday struggles. Just as the Israelites experienced victory against overwhelming odds, we too can trust that God is present in our valleys, ready to support us through every challenge. This messa...

Passage: – Date: 22 December 2019 Speaker: Alastair Dunlop Summary: At the heart of Christmas lies the theme of community, reminding us that we are invited to belong, not just to each other but to Jesus. As we celebrate, we acknowledge the miracle of His birth and the new life He offers us, bringing light into our darkness. This season calls us to embrace these truths, finding our place with...

Passage: Luke 2: 8-20 Date: 22 December 2019 Speaker: Roy Patton Summary: Familiarity with the Christmas story can sometimes dull our appreciation for its profound message. As we reflect on the shepherds in Luke 2, we’re reminded of their active search for Jesus, their eagerness to share the good news, and their heartfelt praise. This Christmas, let’s not take the gift of a Saviour for granted, bu...

Passage: – Date: 15 December 2019 Speaker: Jeremy Marshall Summary: The sermon explores the profound truth that money and success do not guarantee happiness, drawing from personal stories of wealth and the emptiness that often accompanies it. As we reflect on the struggles of life, particularly facing illness, we are reminded of the hope found in Christ and the importance of questioning the...

Passage: Matthew 13:47-52 Date: 8 December 2019 Speaker: Ben Johnston Summary: In today’s message, we explore the parable of the net, highlighting the significance of Jesus’ teachings on judgement and the kingdom of heaven. As the net gathers fish of every kind, it reminds us that the church is a diverse community called to share the transformative power of the Gospel. However, Jesus a...

Passage: Titus 2:11-14 Date: 1 December 2019 Speaker: Sam Castles Summary: As we step into Advent, we’re invited to savour a different kind of sandwich: one that layers our salvation, sanctification, and service between the first and second comings of Jesus. Paul reminds us that our understanding of grace should not only shape our beliefs but also transform our everyday actions, encouraging...

Passage: Matthew 13:44-46 Date: 1 December 2019 Speaker: Frank McKeown Summary: In today’s message, we explore the profound value of the kingdom of heaven, depicted as a hidden treasure and a precious pearl. Just as the men in the parables sacrificed everything for what they found, we are called to recognise Jesus as our ultimate treasure and to share this good news with others. The joy of salvati...

Passage: Obadiah 19-21 Date: 24 November 2019 Speaker: Ben Johnston Summary: In today’s message, we reflect on Obadiah’s vision of a future where God’s people are united, embodying hope amidst hardship. As we prepare for Christmas, it’s a timely reminder that even in difficult times, God promises a community restored, a new Jerusalem, and a kingdom that endures. This speaks...

Passage: – Date: 24 November 2019 Speaker: Terry Laverty Summary: In the story of David and Goliath, we learn that our perspective shapes our actions. David, despite being small and seemingly weak, saw Goliath as a challenge he could overcome with faith, while others were paralyzed by fear. This message encourages us to embrace a life of daring faith, find our assurance in God, and recognise...

Passage: – Date: 24 November 2019 Speaker: Terry Laverty Summary: In today’s message, we reflect on how God uniquely crafts each of us, just as He did with David. Through the story of Willie Worry and Shirley Knott, we learn that even our biggest fears can be calmed by understanding that God has a plan for our lives. No matter how small we feel, we are never alone; God’s presence...