Riverlife Messages

In this message, Pastor Aimee dives into the heart of community and the divine call to plant ourselves where we are, even if it feels like exile. Join us as we explore how being rooted in our local surroundings can lead to flourishing lives and thriving communities. Ever felt like you’re living in Babylon when you’d rather be in Brisbane? This message takes you on a journey of discovering the beau...

In this message, Pastor Ian explores how to truly see and engage with our community through the eyes of faith. Join us as we discuss the importance of noticing the world around us and responding with love and spirit-led insight. Inspired by the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10) and Paul's adventures in Athens (Acts 17), Ian discusses how to move beyond just being present in our community to...

Ever wondered if Jesus would hang out at a backyard party with your non-Church friends? This message explores what it means to be a true friend to those who don't know Christ, challenging us to move beyond surface-level kindness to genuine relationship. Through personal stories of late-night Maccas runs and campfire conversations, Sarah Cathie dives into Jesus' radical approach to friendship with...

In this message, Pastor Graham explores the relationship between right thinking (orthodoxy) and right living (orthopraxis) through the lens of Colossians. Building on last week's message about Christ's supremacy, he unpacks how our theological understanding should lead to transformed living. Graeme takes us on a journey through ancient Greek philosophy and Hebrew thinking, showing how our modern s...

Baptist World Aid CEO Melissa Lipsett shares a powerful perspective on global poverty and Christian response. Through stories from Lebanon to Uganda, she unpacks how hope and resilience are transforming communities through practical action and faith. Ever wondered if making a difference is actually possible? Melissa takes us on a journey through Baptist World Aid's work, showing how local churches...

Ever wondered why the early Christians were so passionate about their faith they'd literally die for it? This message unpacks what it means to truly trust in Jesus, exploring how understanding Christ's supremacy can transform our perspective on life's toughest moments. Gus Wauchope shares his experience working in mental health and rehabilitation, using a touching story about a 70-year-old woman's...

In this message, Pastor Jo dives into the heart of what it means to be a church for our community. With a mix of personal anecdotes and biblical insights, we explore how being sent by God is more than just a task—it's a mission filled with purpose and divine partnership. Discover how being sent by God comes with intention and purpose, much like the biblical figures who were called to be a blessing...

In this message form our 5pm Hall Sessions, we welcome the inspiring Kim Smith, who takes us on a journey through the life of Joseph. With a blend of humour and heartfelt insights, Kim explores how life's unexpected twists can lead us straight into God's purpose. Join us as Kim shares her personal story, filled with both challenges and triumphs, and draws parallels with Joseph's incredible journey...

In this message, we dive into the heart of what it means to be a part of a "kingdom of priests" and explore the unique identity and purpose God has for each of us. Join Pastor Jo as we unpack the beauty of community, identity, and the divine calling to be a light in the world. This podcast takes you on a journey through personal stories and biblical insights, highlighting the importance of having...

In this message, we dive into the intriguing topic of preparing for the return of Christ with Pastor Nick. With a mix of humour and heartfelt reflection, we explore what it means to be ready for this monumental event and why having a healthy fear of God is actually a wise move. Join us as we unpack the parable of the ten virgins from Matthew 25:1-13, a story that challenges us to keep our spiritua...

In this message, we dive into the intriguing concept of "The Life of Dry" with Rev. Dr. Tanika Shepherd, who brings a refreshing perspective on spiritual dehydration and the living water that quenches it. Join us as we explore how to recognise our spiritual thirst and find true satisfaction in Jesus Christ. Tanika, with her delightful sense of humour and profound insights, takes us on a journey th...

In this message, Pastor Nate takes us on a journey of faith, using the humble rubber band as a metaphor for our spiritual growth. With a mix of personal anecdotes and biblical insights, he encourages us to stretch our faith muscles and make room for God to work in our lives. Nate shares his own experiences, from childhood stage mishaps to thrilling theme park rides, illustrating how God uses our m...

In this lively episode of our podcast, we explore the delightful chaos of a "Kids Takeover Church" event, where the young ones lead the way in faith and fun. With science experiments, heartfelt testimonies, and a call to own one's faith, this message is a joyful reminder of the power of childlike wonder in our spiritual journey. Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of children's ministry, whe...

In this message, we wrap up our series on John's Gospel with a heartwarming exploration of love, redemption, and purpose. Join us as we dive into the story of Peter's redemption on the beach with Jesus, discovering how our failures can be transformed into a life of purpose and obedience. As we journey through the final chapter of John's Gospel, we find Peter in a moment of tension and uncertainty,...

In this message, Pastor Ian explores the profound yet beautifully simple metaphor of the vine and the branches from John 15. Join us as we delve into what it means to truly abide in Christ and how this can transform our everyday lives. Our host takes us on a journey through vineyards, both literal and metaphorical, to unpack Jesus' final "I AM" statement: "I am the true vine." With a touch of humo...

In this message, we dive into the profound yet humbling act of foot washing as demonstrated by Jesus in John 13. Join us as we explore how this ancient act of service challenges our modern-day perspectives on humility and selflessness. This week, we’re taking a journey back to the time of Jesus, where foot washing was more than just a kind gesture—it was a radical act of love and humility. As we u...

In this message in our series on the Book of John, we dive into chapters 8, 9, and 10, exploring the rich and layered identity of Jesus. With a touch of humour and a lot of heart, Pastor Petrea discusses how Jesus' bold claims might have been as complex and layered as a fine perfume, challenging us to follow Him despite potential offence. Join us as we navigate the intriguing narratives of Jesus d...

In this message in our Living Water series, Pastor Jo takes us on a journey through John chapter 6, exploring the deeper meaning behind Jesus' declaration, "I am the bread of life." With a dash of humour and a sprinkle of theology, we dive into the significance of spiritual nourishment and the challenge of faith. Join us as we unpack the layers of John 6, where Jesus serves up some thought-provoki...

In this message, guest speaker Tim MacBride from Morling College dives into the challenges of following Jesus in a world that might not always be on our side. With a mix of humour and insight, Tim explores how Christians can navigate a culture that sometimes feels like it's playing for the other team. Tim shares stories from the Gospel of John, highlighting the experiences of two men who encounter...

In this episode, we dive into the captivating encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, exploring how this ancient story still speaks to us today. With a blend of humour and heartfelt insights, we uncover the barriers Jesus broke down to offer living water that quenches our deepest thirsts. Join us as we journey through John 4, where Jesus defies social norms and cultural barrie...

In this message, we dive into the depths of John chapter 3, exploring the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus. Discover how being "born from above" is more than just a catchy phrase—it's an invitation to a transformative life in the light. Happy Star Wars Day! May the fourth be with you as we embark on a journey through the Gospel of John. This message takes a closer look at the unique perspe...

In this message, Ps Sam takes us on a journey through mazes, both literal and spiritual, as we explore the highs and lows of faith. Just like navigating a tricky maze, our spiritual journey is filled with twists, turns, and the occasional dead end, but with the right perspective, we can find our way. Join us as we dive into the Gospel of John, where the Word and Light reveal the divine nature of J...

Join us as Pastor Sam walks us through a journey from Palm Sunday to Easter, exploring the significance of the road less travelled. Discover how the path to victory is paved with unexpected turns and how we are invited to walk alongside Jesus, not just as spectators, but as active participants. In this message, we reflect on the story of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, as told in John 12:1...

Pastor Nick Riddel dives into the heart of what it means to be a Christian on a mission. We explore how each of us is called to be more than just a Sunday churchgoer, but an active participant in God's grand plan. Remember those childhood dreams of becoming a snake catcher or even Santa? Well, this podcast takes a nostalgic twist as we reflect on our life's mission and how it aligns with our faith...

In this message, Pastor Jo explores the enduring relevance of Isaiah's prophecy and Jesus' mission to bring hope and restoration to a broken world. Discover how we are invited to join in this mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring light and freedom to those in need. We dive into Isaiah 61 and its fulfillment in Jesus' ministry, as described in Luke 4. The message draws parallels between th...