If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more… But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain C…

Today, we are looking at the story of Cain from Genesis 4, exploring how unchecked anger led to disastrous consequences and what that can teach us today about dealing with our own feelings of resentment and anger. This week, Pastor Colin emphasises how sin can gain a foothold in our lives if left unattended, urging us to choose a different path by …

We ourselves are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners; yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified. Galatians 2:15-16 One word …

This week, we launch a new series called "Deck Chairs on the Titanic." This series delves into the lives of biblical characters who faced disastrous outcomes, akin to rearranging deck chairs on a sinking ship. Today, we unpack the story of Cain and Abel, focusing on the crucial role of faith—or the lack thereof—in their offerings to God. As Pastor …

To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law... that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law... that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by a…

He drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. Galatians 2:12 When Gentiles came to faith in Christ, the circumcision party went around the churches saying, “It’s great that you have come to faith in Jesus, but now, you need to adopt the distinctives that have been given to us.” These distinctives included circumcision, dietary…

Before certain men came from James, [Peter] was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. Galatians 2:12 If you read the New Testament carefully, you will discover that there was a great struggle going on about the mission of the church. The apostles in Jerusalem were focused on…

In today's episode, we're diving into one of the core doctrines of Christianity — the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Join Colin as he explores how this incredible event reveals Jesus as the Son of God with power. He overcame death and invites us all to share in His resurrection. As we reflect on the hope and power offered in Christ, allow this messa…

When [Peter] came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face… I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel. Galatians 2:11, 14 This was a critical moment in the life of the early church. Galatians 2 tells us the story of a clash between two giants of the early church—Peter and Paul. Modern commentators sometimes suggest that Pau…

Today we are looking at the truth that Jesus has always been the Son of God—even before His resurrection. The resurrection wasn't a reward for a good life but a declaration of what was always true. Why is this so crucial for us? Pastor Colin explains how only God can accomplish what we truly need: reconciliation, forgiveness, and giving life.…

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age. Galatians 1:3-4 Assuming that it is possible, how do you think a person comes into a living relationship with God? Some people think it all comes down to them—a decision. Others believe it all comes down to th…

Many people feel a distance from Jesus, but today we uncover how Jesus is closer than we often realise. Pastor Colin sheds light on the incarnation, illustrating how Jesus' human experiences bring Him near to us. In today's message, "He Understands You," we delve into Romans chapter one to discover how Jesus' humanity was integral in making Him our…

But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. Galatians 1:8 The main problem addressed by the gospel is bigger than finding peace, building confidence, overcoming fear, or finding fulfilment. If our biggest problem was internal to us, then it might be possible for u…

In this episode we will be looking at the truth of Jesus's humanity. We often seek comfort and understanding from those who have faced similar struggles. So, when we're in distress or facing temptation, can we turn to Jesus and say, "You understand"? Pastor Colin illustrates how truly grasping the humanity of Jesus encourages us to approach Him wit…

I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel. Galatians 1:11 Today we are going to look at three possibilities—that the gospel came from Paul, from the church, or directly from Jesus Christ. 1. The gospel is not an invention If Paul had invented the gospel, then his teaching is simply an expression of…

Today, we will be discussing why Jesus is our unique Saviour, grounded in His sovereignty and divinity. Join us as we explore Romans Chapter 1, delving into the fundamental truths of the Christian faith and how Jesus Christ, being both Lord and Saviour, can transform your life. This broadcast reveals that the Lordship of Jesus is not only a reason …

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 As Christians, we believe Jesus died for our sins, but sometimes we are not sure He is able to deliver us from this present evil age. …

To the churches of Galatia. Galatians 1:2 At the beginning of the book of Galatians there is a summary of the gospel: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father” (1:3-4). Here we see two dimensions of the go…

“Who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:16 Paul makes a remarkable statement here: “We have the mind of Christ” (2:16). If you are in Christ, you really can understand the Word of God, and that means you have access to the mind of Christ. In Christ, you are wise, but you will …

Have you received Jesus as both Lord and Saviour? In this episode, Colin explores the difference between embracing Jesus merely as a Saviour versus fully submitting to His Lordship. The gospel—according to Pastor Colin—isn't a free version requiring an upgrade, but rather a complete package of truth that transforms lives through a relationship with…

‘We have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:12 Here is a second thing to know about a life put together with God at the centre: “‘What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love …

This week, we are looking at the theme of "Restoration," drawing insights from Isaiah chapter one. Pastor Colin encourages us to examine our hearts, urging those who may feel rebellion within to turn to the cross of Jesus Christ and find redemption. This message explores the profound transformation God offers, emphasising the urgency of dealing wit…

We impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory. 1 Corinthians 2:7 God’s secret wisdom is a way of putting your life together with God at the center. This is what Jesus did. He did not ask, “What can I get out of this life on earth?” but, “What has the Father called me to do while I am here? How can I be…

Join us as we dive into the Book of Isaiah to explore the challenges of maintaining faithful communities in the modern world. In today's episode, Pastor Colin delves into what it means for a church to be unfaithful and the dangers of letting worldly interests replace the core tenets of faith. Discover why the pure silver of God's Word and the fine …

Among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age… But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 2:6-7 Paul speaks here of two kinds of wisdom—two ways of putting your life together: the wisdom of this age and God’s secret wisdom. It is important to grasp the difference so that we can choose which one to…

In today's discussion, Pastor Colin delves into the themes of worship, service, and prayer, exploring whether these actions alone can atone for sin. As Colin walks us through Isaiah Chapter 1, he challenges common religious misconceptions and highlights the essence of genuine faith versus religious rituals. Tune in as he offers hope through God's p…

Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God. 1 Corinthians 1:30 The fourth dimension of your new identity in Christ is perhaps the most important of all: if you are in Christ, you are wise (though you will still make mistakes). Christ is our wisdom. Here is a simple definition of wisdom: the ability to put things together. In the Old Testament, …

Today, we're diving into a discussion on spiritual awakening and recognising sin in our lives. Pastor Colin takes us through Isaiah 1, discussing how becoming aware of our sins is actually a significant step forward in our spiritual journey! It's fascinating how when we are distant from God, we believe we are doing just fine, but as the Word of God…

But of him you are in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30 We have seen that in Christ, you are clean (though you still sin) because Christ is your righteousness. You are free (though you still struggle) because Christ is your redemption. You are holy (though you …

[God] made us alive together with Christ. Ephesians 2:5 What’s been taken out of the white-flour gospel? It says nothing whatsoever about becoming a new person in Christ. The nourishment that God put in has been taken out, and the result is that many Christians have missed out on the substance that will build up their spiritual lives. To be a Chris…

If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Perhaps you have made the switch from white bread to whole-grain bread. You were told that white flour has most of the goodness taken out of it, so you began baking your own bread, and it is fantastic. Some of us have got used to a wh…

Welcome to another heart-opening episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. As we dive into what it truly means to examine our hearts, join Pastor Colin in exploring how self-examination through an open Bible can illuminate the very sins that lurk within us. Today, Pastor Colin takes us on a journey through Isaiah chapter 1, discussing God'…

As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. John 17:18-19 The fourth dimension of your holiness is that you are sent to the world. When Jesus says, “I consecrate [that is, sanctify] myself,” He is not talking about a gradual growth in holiness.…

We often strive to be the best parents we can, yet today Pastor Colin Smith reminds us that even God, the perfect Father, experienced rebellious children. Today, we explore Isaiah Chapter 1, which offers comfort and hope for parents navigating similar challenges. Pastor Colin shares a thought-provoking perspective: "You can't be a better Father tha…

I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. John 17:6 The third dimension of your holiness is that you are called. You may have heard the phrase that we are called to be “in the world but not of it.” That’s a good summary, and it comes directly from John 17. Notice the words of Jesus: “I have manifested your name to…

In today's episode, we're diving into Romans Chapter 12, exploring a powerful message about living peaceably in a world full of conflict. Pastor Colin focuses on our calling to overcome evil with good and the importance of understanding God's role in justice. Learn the biblical truths necessary to break the cycle of conflict and find peace even whe…

The glory that you have given me I have given to them. John 17:22 That is a staggering statement. You share in Jesus’ glory! This is the second dimension of your holiness. Donald Grey Barnhouse was a church minister in Philadelphia. He conducted many weddings, but he never took money for doing them. This is what he says: For many years it has been …

What is the relationship between God's wrath and peace? Pastor Colin explores Romans chapter 12, shedding light on why dismissing the wrath of God might take us further away from true peace. This message, "Overcoming Evil with Peace," tackles tough questions like how a wrathful God can also be a God of love and how these concepts are intertwined to…

“Yours they were, and you gave them to me.” John 17:6 In making you holy, God has put you in an entirely new position in relation to Christ and to the world. Four things are true of you in Christ: You are given, glorified, called, and sent. The first dimension of your holiness is that you are given. You are the gift of the Father to the Son. You ar…

Today’s broadcast brings a profound exploration of overcoming evil with humility. Pastor Colin shares the intriguing story of Thomas Oden, a renowned theologian who experienced a significant transformation in his spiritual journey. Once pridefully 'wise in his own eyes', Oden’s dramatic shift towards humility and faithfulness is a testament to the …

You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:11 Here, Paul is talking about something that has already happened. “You were sanctified.” In this case, it is not an ongoing process. It is a completed act. The word holy, or holiness, is used in two ways in t…

Christ Jesus, who became to us… sanctification. 1 Corinthians 1:30 We have seen that in Christ you are clean, and in Christ you are free. Now we come to the third dimension of who we are in Jesus Christ: Christ is our holiness. Another word for holiness is sanctification. These words mean the same thing, and it is worth knowing them both. Now this …

If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 There is a wonderful line in Victor Hugo’s great book Les Misérables. It is the story of Jean Valjean, a heartless criminal. A bishop shows him great kindness, and it changes his life. But later in the story, Jean Valjean’s past gets …

Today we explore how we as Christians are called to overcome evil with humility. Colin will look at the beauty of living harmoniously, as described in Romans 12:16, and highlight how it's a beacon of hope in our divided world. Discover practical insights from John Newton, the author of Amazing Grace, as Pastor Colin shares his wise counsel on engag…

Consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Romans 6:11 Maybe you are thinking, It’s all very well to tell me that I am free, but I don’t feel very free. In fact, sometimes I feel totally defeated. That’s not surprising. If you have thought of yourself as a slave for years, it’s no easy thing to start living the life of a free…

Welcome to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith, where we explore how to navigate the challenging landscape of forgiveness and generosity. In today's episode, "Overcoming Evil With Generosity," we delve into Romans 12:14, a scripture urging us to "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them." Pastor Colin candidly addresses the str…

Christ Jesus, who became to us… redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30 Notice the centrality of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is at the heart of everything that is truly Christian. The way in which you become free is not through a technique but through a person. Christ is our redemption. “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). Paul giv…

How can a generous heart play a crucial role in overcoming evil? That's what we'll be looking at today in Romans Chapter 12. Pastor Colin emphasises the importance of love that goes beyond mere obligation, calling us to embrace a spirit of generosity that extends not only to giving but fostering genuine relationships and empathy. This message is pa…

How can we who died to sin still live in it? Romans 6:2 What does Paul mean when he says that we have “died to sin”? Most of us find that sin is still pretty much alive, and sometimes very powerful. If you are in Christ, you are now in a whole new position in relation to sin. You are not in the cage, you are in the field. Sin is still your enemy, b…

Today, hope and encouragement are at the heart of our discussion. In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin delves into Romans Chapter 12, offering words of strength and solace for those who feel crushed, troubled, or burdened. The message is simple yet profound: be patient in tribulation. When life presses you down, remember to hang in there and endure. …