Figtree Anglican Church Podcast

In this sermon from Job 2:1–13 and 1 Thessalonians 2–3, Shane Dirks continues the Effective Church series by exploring what it means to be a church that shows up for one another. He contrasts Paul’s reports on his missionary work and the Thessalonian church, showing their shared alignment in word ministry, demonstrable change, and presence. Shane highlights that the gospel is not just spoken but lived out in faithful relationships—through encouragement, endurance, and showing up in both mission and community. Drawing parallels to Job’s friends, who initially comforted him through their presence, Shane challenges believers to “show up” for others even when words fall short. Using the incarnation of Jesus as the ultimate example of God showing up for humanity, he urges the church to live out this same love through commitment, fellowship, prayer, and perseverance as we await Christ’s return.

 

5 Questions to Think About:

1. How do Paul’s reports in 1 Thessalonians 2–3 show alignment between mission and church life?
2. What does it mean for you personally to “show up” for others in your church community?
3. How can presence—simply being with someone—communicate the love of Christ more powerfully than words?
4. In what ways does Jesus’ incarnation model God’s commitment to “showing up” for us?
5. How can we, as a church, cultivate deeper habits of encouragement, prayer, and perseverance together?

 

3 Things to Take Away from the Message:

1. Presence matters — God calls his people not only to proclaim the gospel but to live it through genuine, faithful relationships (1 Thessalonians 2:8).
2. The incarnation shows God’s way — Jesus “showed up” in flesh and blood to dwell among us, setting the pattern for how we love others (John 1:14).
3. An effective church shows up — in mission, in care, and in prayer, strengthening one another as we await the return of Christ (1 Thessalonians 3:12–13).

In this sermon titled What’s God Got to Do with My Mental Health?, Peter Lenehan addresses the complex relationship between faith and mental well-being, drawing from Job 6:14–27 and 2 Corinthians 1:1–11. Acknowledging Australia’s growing mental health crisis, Peter emphasises that while the Bible doesn’t use modern psychological terms, it speaks deeply to human experiences of despair, fear, and anguish. He highlights the church’s call to a “ministry of listening” — to comfort others as God has comforted us (2 Corinthians 1:3–4) — and challenges believers to offer empathy before advice. Peter also encourages those struggling to seek professional help, share their burdens within trusted community, and hold on to the unchanging hope of the gospel. Above all, he reminds us that God’s presence and compassion meet us even in the darkest valleys, inviting us to trust Him in the midst of suffering.

 

5 Questions to Think About:

1. How do Job’s experiences in Job 6 reflect the importance of compassion and understanding in caring for those who are suffering?
2. What does 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 teach about God’s comfort and our responsibility to comfort others?
3. How can you practice a “ministry of listening” within your church, small group, or friendships?
4. In what ways might your faith help you persevere through times of emotional or mental struggle?
5. What practical steps can you take to care for your mental health — spiritually, relationally, and professionally — while trusting God’s provision?

 

3 Takeaways from the Message:

1. God is the source of all comfort — He meets us in our pain and equips us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3–4).
2. Listening is a powerful act of love — Christians are called to listen with empathy, not judgment, following Jesus’ example of compassion (James 1:19).
3. Trust God in the darkness — Even in seasons of fear or despair, the gospel remains our unshakable hope and foundation (Psalm 56:3).

In this sermon from Luke 10:25–37, Micah 6:6–8, and James 2:14–26, Peter Lenehan explores the question, “What has God got to do with social justice?” Through the parable of the Good Samaritan, Peter shows that Jesus commands his followers to “go and do likewise” — to act with compassion and mercy toward those in need. Drawing on biblical examples from Leviticus 19, Amos 2, and the early church in Acts 2 and 6, he explains how God’s heart for justice runs throughout Scripture: God desires societies marked by fairness, care for the marginalized, and active compassion. Peter also challenges believers to confront barriers such as apathy, comfort, or confusion about priorities, urging them to reflect God’s character through both faith and action. He concludes by calling the church to step onto the “Jericho Road,” living out a faith that is seen in love and justice for others.

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5 Questions to Think About:

1. How does the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) shape your understanding of what it means to “love your neighbor”?

2. What do Micah 6:8 and James 2:14–26 reveal about the connection between faith and action?

3. How can you reflect God’s character of justice and compassion in your daily life and community involvement?

4. What are the “barriers” — such as comfort, busyness, or hopelessness — that keep you from engaging with issues of social justice?

5. What might it look like for you or your church to step out of the “city of peace” and onto the “Jericho Road” to serve others in need?

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3 Things to Take Away:

1. God cares deeply about justice — His Word calls His people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8).

2. Faith and deeds belong together — Genuine faith is expressed through practical love and compassionate action (James 2:17).

3. Jesus calls us to act — Like the Good Samaritan, believers are to move toward those in need, showing mercy as a reflection of God’s heart (Luke 10:37).

In this sermon from Acts 17:1–9 and 1 Thessalonians 2:1–20, Robin Kinstead continues the Effective Church series by exploring what it means to be a church that perseveres with jealousy for Jesus. Using Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica as an example, Robin highlights how the gospel both transforms lives and provokes opposition. He contrasts Paul’s pure motives—preaching not to please people but to honor God—with the persecution that arose from those jealous for their “little gods.” Robin challenges believers to guard against misplaced jealousies that distract from wholehearted devotion to Christ and to live with the same gospel-driven perseverance Paul modeled. He calls the church to bold faith, generous partnership, and spiritual resilience in an increasingly hostile culture, keeping Jesus at the centre as our true hope, joy, and crown.

 

5 Questions to Think About:

1. What does it mean to be “jealous for Jesus,” and how is that different from worldly jealousy?
2. How does Paul’s example in 1 Thessalonians 2 challenge your motives in serving or sharing the gospel?
3. What “little gods” or distractions compete for your devotion and need to be surrendered to Christ?
4. How can we support and pray for persecuted Christians who face opposition for following Jesus (Acts 17:5–9)?
5. In what ways can you become a partner, not just a passenger, in God’s mission through your church?

 

3 Takeaways from the Message:

1. Be jealous for Jesus — devote your whole heart and life to him, guarding against idols that seek to take his place (Exodus 34:14; 1 Thessalonians 2:4).
2. Persevere through opposition — the gospel will provoke resistance, but God’s Spirit empowers endurance and faithfulness (Acts 17:5–9; 1 Thessalonians 2:2).
3. Live and share the gospel with integrity — like Paul, let your motives be pure, your witness be generous, and your joy be found in others growing in Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:7–12, 19–20).

In this sermon, Forever Family, Robin Kinstead concludes the series on Romans by highlighting Paul’s vision of God’s people as one eternal family united in Christ. Drawing from Romans 15–16, he shows how believers—whether Jew or Gentile, male or female, rich or poor—are brought together by the gospel into God’s “forever family.” Robin emphasizes that this unity is not based on culture, background, or preference, but on Jesus’ saving work. As Paul commends fellow workers and calls for unity, prayer, and mutual encouragement, we are reminded of our purpose: to teach one another the gospel for the glory of Jesus and to live as witnesses of God’s eternal household.

5 Questions to Think About:

1. What does it mean for you personally to belong to God’s “forever family”?
2. How can you contribute—spiritually and practically—to strengthening unity in your church community?
3. In what ways can you “teach one another the gospel” in your family, friendships, or small groups?
4. How does Paul’s example of prayer and generosity challenge the way you pray and give today?
5. What obstacles or divisions might distract you from living in harmony with fellow believers?

3 Takeaways from the Message:

1. We are precious people placed in God’s forever family through faith in Jesus.
2. God calls us to teach and encourage one another with the gospel for His glory.
3. Our shared identity in Christ unites us beyond culture, background, or circumstance, giving us hope for eternity together.

In this sermon, Robin Kinstead concludes the Devoted series by exploring what it means to have flourishing families centred on Jesus. Drawing from Genesis 1–2 and Ephesians 5, he reflects on how sin fractures families and communities, but also how Christ restores us into God’s forever family. Robin addresses the challenges of fragmentation in society—such as inequality, polarisation, and isolation—and emphasises repentance, faith in Jesus, and sacrificial love as the foundation for strong family and church life. Using both Scripture and recent events, he calls listeners to live as families that flourish when Christ is at the centre.

5 Questions to Think About:

1. In what ways do you see fragmentation (social, cultural, or spiritual) affecting families today?
2. How does centring your family life on Jesus change the way you relate to one another?
3. What does Ephesians 5 teach us about love, sacrifice, and respect in marriage and relationships?
4. How can the church family step in to support those whose families are broken or grieving?
5. What practical steps can you take this week to put Jesus more clearly at the centre of your home or relationships?

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Families flourish when they are centred on Jesus and shaped by his sacrificial love.
2. Sin leads to fragmentation, but repentance and trust in Christ bring restoration and unity.
3. The church family is called to embody God’s design for flourishing by loving, serving, and supporting one another as part of his forever family.

In this sermon from Deuteronomy 6:1–9, Matthew 18:1–6, and Psalm 139, Ruth Smith explores God’s heart for children and the lessons they teach us about faith. She reminds us that children are known and planned by God, treasured as his gift (Psalm 139:13–16; Psalm 127:3), and entrusted to parents and the wider church to be raised in the knowledge and love of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). Ruth highlights Jesus’ teaching that greatness in the kingdom is found in becoming like little children—marked by humility, trust, honesty, and wonder (Matthew 18:1–5). She challenges us to value children as God does, to invest in their growth, and to let their example shape our own childlike faith before our Heavenly Father.

5 Questions to Think About:

1. How do the Scriptures affirm the value and dignity of children (Psalm 139:13–16; Psalm 127:3)?
2. What does Deuteronomy 6:6–9 teach about the responsibility of parents and the wider church in raising children?
3. How does Jesus’ call to “become like little children” (Matthew 18:3–4) reshape your view of greatness in God’s kingdom?
4. In what ways do children model faith—through trust, authenticity, imitation, or wonder—that you need to relearn?
5. How can you practically invest in the life of a child, even if you are not a parent?

3 Takeaways from the Message:

1. Children are precious to God—they are created, known, and treasured by him (Psalm 139:16).
2. We are called to raise and value children—passing on God’s truth and supporting them as part of his family (Deuteronomy 6:6–9).
3. Childlike faith is essential—humility, trust, and wonder before God reflect the true posture of his children (Matthew 18:3–5).

In this sermon titled Cherished Children, Steve Dinning explores what it means to value children in light of God’s Word. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6:1–9, Matthew 18:1–6, and Matthew 19:13–15, he highlights the biblical call to raise children in the knowledge and love of God, while also learning from their humility and vulnerability. Steve reminds us that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in humility, dependence, and service, and that children are not only the future of the church but also a vital part of it today. He also connects Jesus’ care for children with the biblical mandate to care for the vulnerable—widows, orphans, and foreigners—pointing to foster care and intergenerational support as expressions of God’s love in action.

5 Questions to Think About:

1. What does Jesus mean when he says we must become like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3)?

2. How does the vulnerability and humility of children teach us about our relationship with God?

3. In what ways does Jesus’ welcome of children (Matthew 19:14) challenge the way we view and value children today?

4. How can we, as a church community, better support families, foster carers, and ministries that care for vulnerable children?

5. What role can you play in teaching and modelling faith for the next generation (Deuteronomy 6:6–7)?

3 Things to Take Away:

1. Humility is greatness – Entering and living in God’s kingdom requires humility, like that of a child, depending fully on the Father’s grace.

2. Children matter now – Jesus affirms the dignity of children and calls the church to value and learn from them, not just see them as the future.

3. Faith is lived and shared daily – Parents, grandparents, and the whole church community are called to pass on the story of God through teaching, modeling, and everyday life rhythms.

In this sermon from Mark 15:22–39, Mark 16:1–7, and Ephesians 2:1–10, Ruth Smith unpacks the biggest question anyone can ask: What does God have to do with my life? She explains the reality of sin—that we are all spiritually dead and deserving of God’s judgment—but also the incredible hope of the gospel: that God, in his great love, makes us alive in Christ by grace through faith. Using clear illustrations, Ruth shows how God’s commands are for our good, how Jesus’ death and resurrection provide the only rescue from sin and death, and how salvation is a free gift, not earned by works but received by faith. She calls each person to respond personally, reminding us that Jesus is not a footnote in our story but the center of life itself.

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5 Questions to Think About:

1. How does Ephesians 2:1–3 describe our condition apart from Christ, and why is this such a serious problem?

2. What do Ruth’s illustrations about rules and boundaries teach us about why God gives his commands?

3. How does Jesus’ death and resurrection (Mark 15–16) change the way you see your past, present, and future?

4. What does it mean for salvation to be “by grace… not by works” (Ephesians 2:8–9), and how does that shape your view of God?

5. How will you personally respond to the question: What does God have to do with my life?

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3 Takeaways from the Message:

1. We are dead in sin without Christ—unable to save ourselves and deserving of judgment (Ephesians 2:1–3).

2. God saves by grace through faith—salvation is his gift, not our achievement (Ephesians 2:8–9).

3. Jesus is life itself—his death and resurrection mean we can have forgiveness, freedom, and eternal hope (Mark 16:6; Ephesians 2:5).

In this sermon from 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10 and Isaiah 12, Peter Lenehan launches a new series on what makes a church effective. He shows how the Thessalonian believers were known everywhere because the Lord’s message rang out from them, not for their own reputation but for God’s glory. An effective church, Peter explains, has its foundation in God (v.1), engages in work produced by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope (v.3), and shares the gospel with deep conviction, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and accompanied by God’s power (vv.4–6, 9–10). Challenging us to move beyond being “benchwarmers,” he calls every believer to find their place of service, guard against burnout, and step out with the gospel so that Christ is made known in our community and beyond.

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5 Questions to Think About:

1. How does being “in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 1:1) shape your identity as part of the church?
2. What does it look like in your life for work to flow from faith, labor from love, and endurance from hope (1 Thessalonians 1:3)?
3. Which of the four convictions in verses 9–10 (turning from idols, serving the living God, waiting for Jesus’ return, believing he rescues us from wrath) do you most need to strengthen?
4. How might fear of failure cause us to “quench the Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19), and what does it mean to “test everything” instead?
5. Are you actively going out with the gospel in your daily life, or more often waiting for people to come in?

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3 Takeaways from the Message:

1. Foundation matters — an effective church is rooted in God, not just activity or reputation (1 Thessalonians 1:1).
2. Faith, love, and hope drive ministry — true gospel work is sustained not by guilt or obligation but by these eternal motivations (1 Thessalonians 1:3).
3. The gospel must go out — with words, conviction, the Spirit, and power—because only then will it ring out to our community and beyond (1 Thessalonians 1:5–10).