Have you ever considered the miracle of the virgin birth and the extraordinary faith of Joseph, who discovered his fiancée Mary was pregnant with a child he had no part in conceiving? Journey with us as Pastor Colin transports us back to ancient times, giving us a first-person perspective into the Christmas story and the immense faith of Joseph, who persevered through personal turmoil to fulfil God's calling.

As you listen, you’ll be invited to delve into Joseph's steadfast faith and witness his pivotal role as the guardian of Jesus, son of God. Imagine the emotional rollercoaster - from devastation to divine revelation, when an angel confirms Mary’s miraculous conception. Through Joseph's eyes, witness the unfolding of events that fulfil prophecies, from the decree that sends them to Bethlehem to the birth of Jesus in a humble cave.

Simeon's encounter with the baby Jesus reveals profound truths about faith and recognition. Simeon, a devout man, awaited the Messiah with a promise that he would see the Christ before his death. As he cradles the infant Jesus in his arms, he proclaims that this child is destined for both the falling and rising of many in Israel – a statement that resonates with the dual nature of Jesus' impact even today.

Join Pastor Colin as he unpacks Simeon's deeply moving testimony, exploring how this holy encounter reveals the dual responses people have towards Jesus: rising in faith or stumbling in rejection. This Christmas season, reflect on your own response to Jesus and consider the transformative power he holds in your life. Is He the rock upon which you stand firm, or the stone over which you stumble?

We're exploring the Christmas story through the eyes of the characters who experienced it firsthand. Today, we journey with Simeon, an elderly man known for his faith, as he experiences the fulfilment of a long-awaited promise. Join us as we dive into Simeon's extraordinary encounter with the Christ child and the profound peace he finds in God's promise of salvation.

Join us for an inspiring episode of "Open the Bible" with Pastor Colin Smith as we embark on a new series, "Christmas Stories." Today, we're diving into "John's Story," exploring the Christmas narrative through the eyes of the Apostle John. Experience the wonder and glory of the birth of Christ and its profound significance, as told by someone who walked alongside Him.

Is repentance solely a means to avoid consequences? Pastor Colin guides us in understanding repentance as an invitation to participate in the Kingdom of Heaven. Through insightful discussions about Psalm 51 and the teachings of Christ, we explore how repentance is more than turning away from sin; it's a joyful, sustained turning towards a life of peace and joy under God's rule.

The concept of repentance is often misunderstood as a daunting task or simply feeling sorry. Pastor Colin paints a vivid picture of the journey between a mountain of impossible demands and a swamp of inadequate solutions, showing us the highway of repentance as a refreshing path towards God.

We delve deep into Psalm 51 to unravel the true nature of repentance—not just sorrow, but a heartfelt turning towards God. Comparing the stories of Peter and Judas, we learn about the critical choice between the paths of despair and renewal. Through Pastor Colin's guidance, discover the liberating essence of genuine repentance that leads to a life filled with God's light and presence.

Join us as we continue this journey in the series "Changing Direction," exploring how true repentance can transform your life.

What is the essence of repentance? Join us in Psalm 51, as we explore how King David, concerned with his actions and their root cause, turns to God not just for forgiveness but for a genuine transformation of the heart.

Pastor Colin highlights how true repentance is about more than just seeking forgiveness—it's about asking for a clean heart and a fresh start, similar to ridding a beach of oil pollution. We learn that God offers more than pardon; He offers a miraculous cleansing and renewal that goes to the core of our being.

Today, Colin dives deep into Psalm 51, exploring the transformative power of God's mercy. We learn through King David's example that acknowledging God's mercy is the first step towards true change and redemption. This week, we focus on not just realising our transgressions but also understanding the remarkable truth that God, much like a great physician, cleanses us from the pollution of sin and offers unfailing love and forgiveness.