Open the Bible UK Broadcast

Today's episode takes inspiration from the iconic song "Imagine" by John Lennon, touching on the themes of peace, love, and a world free from conflict and greed. While the song's vision is compelling, Pastor Colin addresses why such a dream eludes us and explores the deeper issues within and around us that hinder true peace and harmony.Colin delves into these thought-provoking questions through the lens of the Bible, specifically focusing on Micah Chapter 4. In this passage, we learn about God's ultimate plan for peace and security through judgment, gathering, ruling, and redeeming His people. This episode promises to be a heartfelt exploration of how biblical teachings intersect with our deepest yearnings for a better world.

Join us on this episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith as we delve into the importance of living a righteous life. We are reminded that effective praying depends on right living, citing scripture from Micah 3. Pastor Colin teaches us that cherishing iniquity in our hearts can prevent our prayers from being heard by God. This episode is a call to self-examination and the pursuit of righteousness, assuring us that our actions are integral to our faith. Don’t miss this enlightening message where we'll discover why God holds leaders accountable and how we can make a difference in our spheres of influence.

Today's message dives into the principle that faithfulness in what God has entrusted to us can lead to even greater trust. This holds true for money, responsibility, influence, ministry, and friendships.Pastor Colin underscores the importance of recognising the various trusts we hold, from relationships and work to special gifts and ministry. He reminds us that being faithful in these areas can result in more responsibilities from God.The episode takes us through the book of Micah, chapter 3, focusing on the message "The God Who Holds Leaders Accountable." Here, Pastor Colin elaborates on how every leader, whether in elected positions or appointed roles, holds an accountability before God. Importantly, he also connects effective prayer with righteous living, saying, "Effective praying depends on right living.".

Have you ever wondered what would happen if God spoke directly to us? Pastor Colin dives deep into Micah, Chapter 2, exploring the ramifications of a God who speaks for himself. We talk about how ignoring God's word is the ultimate insult and what the Word of God says about judgment and salvation.Join us as Pastor Colin discusses the stark contrast between true prophetic messages and those of false prophets, who provide a false sense of comfort to people still living in sin. Plus, discover how Jesus, the Great Shepherd, breaks open the way for us, leading us to paths we couldn't navigate on our own.

In today's episode, we're diving into the pivotal theme of how we can come to know the living God through His own revelation, rather than through our own ideas or speculations. Pastor Colin compellingly illustrates this with today's message titled, "The God Who Speaks for Himself." Through the lens of scripture, specifically Micah Chapter 2, we will explore the distinction between human speculation and divine revelation, and understand why the God of the Bible is worth knowing.Why is this important? Pastor Colin gently guides us to ponder, "What if the elephant could speak?" He explains how just as an elephant describing itself would eliminate ambiguity, God's revelation of Himself through actions and words transforms our understanding and relationship with Him. We'll also delve into how God's sovereignty means He uses every circumstance in our lives to advance His divine purpose, even the challenging ones.

Today's broadcast dives into the profound topic of the sovereignty of God, especially in times of disaster. Many listeners may resonate with the questions posed and the struggles highlighted.Pastor Colin offers heartfelt empathy and turns our attention to the Book of Micah, where the prophet speaks to people facing extraordinary calamities. Colin explores three vital actions to take when encountering the darkest days of life, beginning with affirming God's control over all circumstances. This foundational belief provides a bedrock of hope and faith.

Have you ever wondered why disasters befall both the righteous and the wicked? Pastor Colin explores this profound question using the book of Micah, showing us that the Bible indeed suggests that suffering is not selectively doled out.Today, we delve into the passages of Micah chapter 1, as Pastor Colin explains the challenging idea that God is in control of both the good and the bad happenings in our lives. This thought-provoking message invites us to rethink our understanding of suffering, disasters, and God's sovereignty over these events in a fallen world.

Have you ever wondered how a simple farm boy from an obscure town could speak profound truths to a nation? Join Pastor Colin as he delves into the life of Micah—a prophet who, despite his humble beginnings in Moresheth, was tasked with delivering God's word during the reigns of King Ahaz and Hezekiah.Through exploring Micah's story, Pastor Colin beautifully illustrates how God's word can bring revival and hope even in the darkest times. Discover how God raised a great son like Hezekiah from a disastrous father like Ahaz, and how He can use ordinary believers to make extraordinary impacts.

In today's sermon, Colin contrasts paganism's misunderstanding of divine displeasure, with the gospel's message of hope and redemption through suffering. We'll delve into the book of Micah, exploring a time of both immense moral decay and significant spiritual revival among God's people. Colin emphasises that true faith recognises that God fulfils His purpose even amid trouble, differentiating biblical Christianity from superstitious practices. Don't miss this enlightening series titled "Close Encounters with the Living God."

Our broadcast today dives into the challenging message of prioritising faith amidst our busy lives, filled with music, food, pets, travel, and sports. While these are good things, Pastor Colin reminds us to take time to look at the Lord Jesus Christ.Today's discussion starts with a simple question: What does it actually mean to look at Jesus Christ? Colin shares that it involves listening to His words, observing His actions, hearing His promises, heeding His commands, and responding to His invitations. Just like cultivating any relationship, coming to faith is intentional and requires spending time with Jesus, primarily through opening the Bible.

Today, we tackle a fundamental question: Why is unbelief the dominant response to the gospel of Jesus Christ? We'll explore why many people are on the broad road to destruction and so few on the narrow path that leads to life, as Jesus described.We'll uncover what lies behind unbelief and discover what can lead to faith, focusing on three hurdles: distractions by the wrong considerations, being drawn to wrong priorities, and driven by the wrong desires. Guided by Isaiah 53, we delve into Jesus' early life and the reasons behind people's dismissive attitudes toward Him.

In today's broadcast, we explore a question that many of us have pondered: How can ordinary people like you and me experience peace at all times and in every way?Pastor Colin delves into the Scripture's teachings on this matter, with insightful references to Paul's prayer in 2 Thessalonians Chapter 3:16-18. He highlights that peace isn't about walking around with smiles all day but finding God's serenity even amidst conflicts and fears.Don't miss out on this heartfelt episode where Colin emphasises three crucial pillars for establishing peace: that God's presence is always with us, His promises are sure, and His grace is sufficient. Tune in to discover how these truths can bring you comfort and strength, especially when facing life's toughest challenges.

In today's episode, we ask the profound question: Do you have peace with God today? Are you running from Him or feeling afraid? If you find yourself reluctant to pray or despite settling every conflict in your life, you are still missing that ultimate peace, this episode is just for you.Pastor Colin discusses the essential nature of peace with God and how it's the root from which peace of heart grows. We'll explore 1 Thessalonians chapter 3, verses 16-18, to understand the Bible’s teachings on experiencing God's peace. He explains that peace with God must come first to bring peace in other areas of our lives.

Today’s episode dives into the deep and often unspoken struggles many believers face in their spiritual journeys. Have you ever felt like God has forgotten you or is hiding His face from you? Join us as Pastor Colin explores Psalm 13, offering guidance on how to pray when you are in an agony of soul.Pastor Colin discuss practical ways to support those in spiritual distress and how the Bible equips us to do so. This episode emphasises the importance of recognising, understanding, and responding to the cries of the soul, helping us find strength and comfort in God's enduring love.

In today's broadcast, we delve into the complexities of enduring long-term trials and the profound impact it has on our souls. Pastor Colin emphasises that the hardest trials aren't necessarily those that hurt the deepest but those that last the longest. Drawing wisdom from Psalm 13, Colin explores how this scripture speaks directly to our struggles, especially those that seem never-ending.Perhaps you're enduring difficulties in your marriage, facing stress at work, or dealing with long-term physical or mental challenges. The timeless words of Psalm 13 are a prayer for those moments when you feel there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Listen in as we discover Holy Spirit-inspired prayers that offer solace and guidance during these trying times.

In today's episode, we continue our discussion on “What is the Church and Why Does it Matter?” Pastor Colin reminds us that the Church is not a man-made institution but a divine gathering initiated by God and meant to honour Christ.We explore the powerful concept that the Church, as mentioned by Jesus, refers to the entire body of believers through all ages and each local congregation gathered for worship and service. This insightful message invites us to reflect on our personal relationship with Christ and our role within the Body of Christ.Whether you're questioning why you should get involved in a local church or seeking to deepen your faith, this message is sure to offer valuable insights.

In today’s broadcast, we tackle the important topic: What is the Church and Why Does It Matter? Pastor Colin explores the significance of the church through the eyes of Jesus, reminding us how Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her. We will dive into Matthew 16 and 18 to uncover what Jesus meant by 'church' and why it holds such immense value.As we discuss this issue, our hope is to reignite your passion for the church, helping you see it as Jesus does—infinitely precious and dearly loved. If you've ever questioned the place of the church in modern life, this episode offers a compelling biblical vision you won’t want to miss!

Welcome to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. All this month we're showcasing the most requested and downloaded messages from the past year in a series called Listener Favourites.Today's message is from our Christmas Stories series, where we explore the Christmas narrative through the eyes of key participants like Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men, and the Shepherds. Today's spotlight is on the angel Gabriel, giving us a heavenly perspective of the birth of Jesus.Imagine the marvel of seeing Christ in His glory and then witnessing Him being born as a baby. Pastor Colin takes us through this astounding story as told by Gabriel. How did Gabriel feel when delivering the most important announcement to a young Mary? What significance does Gabriel see in humanity’s unique nature? Listen in as we delve into the beauty of God's love seen through the experience of an angel.

Today's broadcast explores how our faith is tested when we don't feel the presence of Jesus, just like when the disciples faced a storm on the Sea of Galilee. Join us as Pastor Colin delves into Matthew 14, reminding us that the presence of fear doesn't mean the absence of faith, and that Jesus rules not only the day but also the night and the storms in our lives. Through the story of Peter walking on water, discover the incredible truth that Jesus gives us the strength to fulfil His commands.

Today's broadcast centres on how the disciples of Jesus found themselves suddenly plunged into a challenging situation that tested their faith in new ways. What does it look like to exercise faith in an unexpected storm? Join us as we explore this question.Pastor Colin helps us understand the storm the disciples faced without Jesus in the boat, drawing parallels to the challenges in our own lives when we may feel alone or unequipped. He reminds us that Jesus is always with us, even when He seems far away, and that no storm is too great for Him to reach us.

Today, Pastor Colin delves into one of life's profound truths: "sorrow is often God's back door to joy". Through a heartfelt message, he challenges the belief that joy is unattainable after experiencing great sorrow. Drawing from the book of Isaiah, he addresses those who feel trapped in their grief and shows them the path to restoring joy through faith in God's word. Don't miss this transformative message as Pastor Colin provides hope and guidance for restoring joy in your life. Join us as we explore Isaiah 54 and 55 and find renewal in God's love and promises.

In today's broadcast, Colin delves into Isaiah 54, highlighting that joy in Jesus Christ can lift us up even when we are in the depths of sorrow. If you’ve faced challenges, be they personal crises, relationship heartaches, or societal disruptions, this message shows how joy rooted in Christ transcends your circumstances. Listen in as Colin explains how joy found in God’s people, God’s love, and God’s city can transform the deepest pains into remarkable joy.

Will you spend the rest of your life blaming others and end up under the wrath of God, or will you embrace what God offers you in Jesus Christ? Today we'll be delving into Deuteronomy 1 to explore this crucial decision.We all know people who blame others for their problems, and sometimes we do it ourselves. But as Colin mentions, we can move forward through Christ. In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin draws lessons from a younger generation in the Book of Deuteronomy who grew up in the desert because of their parents' lack of faith. Instead of blaming their parents, they are challenged to take ownership of their faith and obedience.

In this episode, Pastor Colin delves into Deuteronomy Chapter One, highlighting six impulses that naturally occur within us all. These include rebellion against God, treating God's grace with contempt, blaming others, resisting truth, refusing to believe, and ultimately, being under God's wrath. The sermon raises an urgent question: How can we enter the promised land if we inherit these traits?

Today we're continuing our series with a message entitled "A New Beginning". We're diving into the Book of Ezra, and Colin will shed light on how God's people, exiled in Babylon, felt a stirring in their hearts to return to Jerusalemand how this relates to us today. God's people faced immense hardship and displacement, but Ezra chapter 1 reveals a fresh spiritual awakening where people desired to return to worship, rebuild the temple, and experience God's presence anew. This story speaks volumes about rekindling our passion for worship and community.If you've drifted from worship, consider this an invitation to reconnect with God's people. As we explore the first 11 verses of Ezra chapter one, Pastor Colin highlights the importance of gathering for worship, even in challenging times.

In today's episode, we explore the ebb and flow of spiritual life through the lens of the book of Ezra. Pastor Colin draws a parallel between the tides of the ocean and the spiritual highs and lows that Christians often experience. Just as the tide goes in and out, there are seasons of spiritual vibrancy and times of decline. However, the message of hope is clear: a new beginning is always possible.Pastor Colin discusses how God's Holy Spirit can stir our hearts, bringing revival and a renewed sense of purpose, even after long periods of spiritual dryness. Using the story of the Israelites' return to Jerusalem under King Cyrus's decree, this broadcast encourages us to seek a fresh infusion of spiritual life, passion, and commitment.Join us as we delve into Ezra 1:1-11, and be inspired to embrace a new beginning in your walk with God.

Today's topic is one many of us find difficult: waiting. Colin Smith delves into Psalm 130 to explore what it truly means to wait on the Lord, especially during life's darkest moments. In a culture where everything is rushed, this lesson teaches us the importance of patience and trust in God's timing. Colin discusses how waiting is not about having all the answers, but about making a simple decision and a steady commitment to wait on God, relying on His unfailing love and plentiful redemption. He shares poignant examples of waiting as an expression of love, encouraging us to see our periods of waiting as times to deepen our relationship with God.

In today's episode, "Trusting in the Darkness," Pastor Colin addresses the challenging seasons known as the "dark night of the soul." As Christians, many of us have felt immense inner pain even when our bodies are healthy. This episode highlights how Scripture doesn't encourage us to put on a brave face during these tough times but rather to acknowledge and bring our pain to God. Pastor Colin draws from Psalms, showing us how believers deeply embraced their struggles and presented them honestly before God. He discusses how Jesus Himself faced dark moments, asking, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?", yet received only silence in return. Pastor Colin provides comfort and encouragement, reminding us that it's perfectly okay to be in a dark place—many faithful Christians have walked that path too.

In today's show, we'll be diving deeper into our series, "Give Yourself a Break – How to Enjoy God's Gift of Rest". It's a fascinating topic that resonates with so many of us seeking balance in our busy lives. As we explore Matthew Chapter 11, Colin Smith helps us understand the seemingly paradoxical concept of finding rest in taking on the yoke of obedience to Christ. It may sound like more work at first, but Colin explains how being yoked with Jesus actually lightens our burdens and enables us to live a fulfilled and purposeful life. If you want to follow along, grab your Bible and turn to Matthew 11.

Ever wondered how you can end your life with a sense of fulfilled purpose and accomplishment, entering into God's eternal rest? Join us on "Open the Bible" with Pastor Colin Smith as we explore this question. Discover why only Jesus Christ could declare, "It is finished," and how His completed work on the cross enables us to find peace and joy. In this episode, we'll dive into Matthew 11 and learn how to experience true rest through Christ.

Today’s episode dives into a profound message from Isaiah chapter 57, where we reflect on the notion that "there is no peace for the wicked." Pastor Colin discusses the dire warning that a life lived in opposition to God can never find true rest. Through vivid illustrations and relatable metaphors, we uncover why the wicked can never say they've found fulfilment, joy, or peace. These elements are only available through the grace of Jesus Christ. Join us as we explore this crucial topic and learn about the grace and peace found in faith. Don't forget to visit our website at openthebible.org.uk or find us on your favourite podcast platform by searching for Open the Bible UK. Stay tuned for an enlightening discussion!

In today's message titled "Why the Wicked Never Rest," we delve into the pressing and often unsettling question: "How could a loving God ever send anyone to Hell?" Pastor Colin brings insight from Isaiah 57, highlighting that there is no rest for the wicked both in this present life and in the hereafter. We explore what it means to be "wicked" according to the Bible and why this category of people can never find peace. Join us as we uncover the contrast between the wicked and the righteous, and discover the hope and rest offered through Jesus Christ.

Pastor Colin explores the importance of rest in our lives, drawing wisdom from Genesis. We often find ourselves overwhelmed, trying to fit in shopping, bill payments, house cleaning, and office work within our packed schedules. But God’s example in creation teaches us to balance work and rest, highlighting the need to appreciate our accomplishments rather than stress over unfinished tasks.Today’s message, "The Climax of Living", provides practical guidance on how to plan your week, dividing your work into manageable portions and cherishing rest as a God-given gift. Learn how to make your day of rest special and distinct from other days by focusing on its inherent blessings.Pastor Colin reminds us that our struggle with an unending workload is a post-fall condition, emphasising the importance of transitioning from being overwhelmed by work to being in control of it. Genesis 2:3 reveals how God sanctified the seventh day, showing us a pattern to incorporate into our lives.

In this episode, Pastor Colin delves into the nature of true rest. In this broadcast, you will explore what it means to find rest not just for your body but for your soul, as reflected in biblical teachings. Ever felt more exhausted after watching TV for hours? Struggled to find peace even on a beautiful beach? You’re not alone. Colin explores how rest goes beyond mere inactivity—it’s about peace of mind and soul. By looking into the book of Genesis, he explains how God rested after creation and invites us to understand profound biblical rest. Jesus offers rest for your soul, a rest that starts in your relationship with God and brings peace to your heart and mind. Learn how fulfilling God’s purpose for your life can lead to true, refreshing rest. If you’re ready to dive deeper into understanding and enjoying God’s gift of rest, join us in Genesis Chapter 2 for "The Climax of Living". Pastor Colin unpacks God’s model of rest and how to apply it to your life.

Welcome to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. In today's message, titled "The Love of God," Pastor Colin invites us to explore the infinite and inexhaustible love of God that Christian believers have only begun to taste. Through engaging with the Scriptures, especially Romans 5, we uncover how to receive more of God's immeasurable love. Pastor Colin emphasises that: Christian believers experience God's love through the Holy Spirit. This divine love is vast, akin to pouring an ocean into a thimble. The Apostle Paul prays for an increased understanding of God's love's breadth, length, depth, and height. Pastor Colin discusses practical steps to deepen our experience of this love: Exercise Faith: Believing God's voice over all others, daily. Use Suffering: Persevere through suffering, as it often leads to a deeper experience of God's love. Own Your Need: Acknowledge our dependence on Jesus and our own shortcomings. Embrace Christ: Hold onto the crucified and risen Saviour who never lets us go.

Welcome to this episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. Today, we delve into the profound subject of the love of God. Colin highlights that the love given to human beings far surpasses that given to insects, birds, or animals, reflecting the unique capacity of human beings. He explores this deep love and its eternal nature, emphasising that for all eternity, we'll continue discovering the breadth, length, depth, and height of God's love. In this episode, Pastor Colin takes us to Romans, Chapter 5, to understand how we can know and enjoy God's love. He discusses two marvellous aspects of the love of God: its demonstration historically through Christ's sacrifice (Romans 5:8) and its experience now, poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). These twin truths highlight that God's love is both a truth to be believed and a gift to be experienced and enjoyed. Pastor Colin beautifully articulates how God's love touches every part of our lives, much like perfume filling every corner of a house. This pervasive love is brought into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, which empowers us to grasp and cherish this divine affection deeply. So, as you listen, we invite you to turn to Romans, Chapter 5, and especially verse 5, to fully immerse yourself in understanding and experiencing the love of God.

Many might not immediately think of the fear of God as a friend to the soul. However, Colin illuminates how this fear is not contradictory to the love of God. In fact, they complement and reinforce each other beautifully, leading to a profound spiritual understanding and appreciation of God's nature. As we study Jeremiah chapter 32, Colin explains the three reasons proposed by Thomas Manton on why we should fear the Lord as we consider the awesome day of judgment. This discussion will enrich your spiritual journey, providing a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of God's judgement, glory, and love.

Welcome to Open The Bible with Pastor Colin Smith! Today, we're diving into an essential and sometimes misunderstood topic: the fear of God. Many think that the God of the Old Testament is to be feared, while the God of the New Testament is to be loved. Pastor Colin challenges this notion by affirming that God is unchanging and that both fear and love are essential aspects of a Christian believer's relationship with Him. Pastor Colin explains how our love for God leads us to fear Him, and our fear of God leads us to love Him—these are not divided but held together. Drawing from both Old and New Testament scriptures, including Deuteronomy and the words of Jesus and Peter, he illustrates that God's nature as loving and to be revered spans the entirety of the Bible. Throughout the broadcast, we explore the fear of God as a “cord of three strands”: the splendor of God's glory, the reality of God's judgment, and the wonder of God's love. This trifecta helps believers understand the depth and importance of fearing God in a healthy, spiritually enriching way.

In today's episode, we dive into the heart of spiritual life: where it comes from, how it is nourished, and why it matters so deeply for our daily lives. Pastor Colin explores the profound truth that spiritual life originates from the Word of God and is sustained by it. Our discussion centres around Colossians 3 and the importance of letting the word of Christ dwell in us richly. Pastor Colin emphasizes that when the Word of God has a rich place in our lives, it produces fruit and strengthens our faith, hope, and understanding. This episode is a powerful reminder of the significance of immersing ourselves in scripture. Whether you are new to faith or seeking to deepen your spiritual journey, you will find Pastor Colin’s insights both encouraging and enlightening.

Today, we're diving deep into one of the core themes of our ministry: the authority of the Word of God. Pastor Colin explores how the Bible, both the Old and New Testaments, is central to our faith as it contains God speaking to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. We discuss how the Bible is not merely a book of information, but it is life, light, food, and sustenance for our souls. It's a means by which spiritual life is given and sustained. Pastor Colin encourages us to be deeply rooted in the conviction that the Bible is indeed God's Word. Our key scripture for today is Colossians 3:16 - "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom...” Join us as we unpack what this means for us individually and as a church. Are you allowing the Word of God to dwell richly in your life? If you missed any part of today’s message or wish to listen again, you can always catch up on our website at openthebible.org.uk.

Today, we continue our journey in 2 Corinthians chapter 5, exploring the message of "The Son of God." Pastor Colin shares how the Holy Spirit—referred to in various names such as the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Spirit of Truth—dwells within us and transforms our lives from the inside out. It's a powerful reminder that Christ in us is our hope of glory, and through the Holy Spirit, we are never truly alone. He knows our every trial and temptation and provides strength and comfort in times of need. If you've missed any part of our Soul Care series or want to revisit today's message, you can always catch up online at openthebible.org.uk or listen to our podcast on your favourite podcast site. Don't forget to subscribe to receive regular updates! At Open the Bible, we love hearing from our listeners! If Pastor Colin's teaching has been a blessing to you, please reach out to us. You can write to us at Open the Bible, P.O. Box 1420, Cheltenham, GL50 9PG, or call us on 0330-335-8089.

In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin delves deep into the topic of caring for our souls, introducing us to the concept of 'Four Friends for the Soul.' Inspired by the works of Andrew Gray, a remarkable preacher who left a great legacy at a young age, we explore these four vital companions for a Christian journey: the Son of God, the Word of God, the Fear of God, and the Love of God. Today's primary focus is on the 'Son of God' as our friend. Pastor Colin shares insights on how Jesus Christ invites us into a close, personal relationship with Him, not just as a distant figure of belief but as a present friend living within us through the Holy Spirit. As we open our Bibles to 2 Corinthians 5 and Galatians 2:20, we discover Paul's marvellous statement that "Christ lives in me." This episode also highlights the difference between self-effort and true Christian life, emphasising the importance of a transformed heart and the indwelling of Christ by the Holy Spirit. Pastor Colin shares personal anecdotes and theological insights to help us understand this profound truth.

In this episode, Pastor Colin delves into the importance of guarding your heart, as we explore the wisdom found in Proverbs 4:23, "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." We'll discover practical steps on how to watch, investigate, confess, commit, and trust in the quest to maintain a healthy spiritual heart. From identifying the red and green lights on the dashboard of our souls to understanding how to investigate and address the causes of our spiritual struggles, this teaching provides essential guidance for every believer. If you ever miss any of our messages or want to revisit them, you can find them online at openthebible.org.uk. There, you'll also find other devotional material by Pastor Colin Smith.

Welcome to another episode of "Open The Bible" with Pastor Colin Smith, hosted by David Pick. Today's discussion centres around a crucial teaching from the Book of Proverbs on the importance of guarding your heart. But what does that mean? Why is it so important? And most significantly, how do we actually go about doing what God calls us to do? Drawing wisdom from scripture and insights from esteemed Christian writers like John Flavell and Octavius Winslow, Pastor Colin dives deep into understanding why keeping our heart with all vigilance is essential for our spiritual life. We explore how the state of our heart influences every aspect of our lives – our choices, our joy, our peace, and our strength. Just as a valuable Stradivarius violin needs constant tuning, our hearts require constant care and attention, for from it flow the springs of life. In this episode, you'll learn about the practical steps to guard and watch your heart diligently. Pastor Colin shares five specific ways to monitor and maintain the health of your soul, ensuring that the life-giving streams of joy, peace, and love can flow freely from within.

Welcome to this enlightening instalment of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. In today's broadcast, we delve into the complex topic of cultural distortions within Christianity, particularly the notion that a mere affirmation of being on a 'spiritual journey' is sufficient for salvation. Pastor Colin continues to explore what it genuinely means to embark on a spiritual journey, deciphering common misconceptions and offering crucial insights into the essence of being saved. Through the message, we learn that salvation involves far more than just belief—it requires a definitive return to Jesus Christ as the Shepherd, the Overseer, and the Lord of our lives, guiding us towards a path of righteousness. The broadcast is anchored in 1 Peter chapter 2, where we are reminded that stray sheep can indeed return to their Shepherd, who graciously watches over their souls. It is an invitation to shed the spiritual equivalent of stuffing one’s wealth under the mattress and instead, trust our souls to the care of Jesus Christ, who promises a life of growth and prosperity under His guidance.

Welcome to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. In today's episode, we delve into perhaps the most anticipated message of our entire series: "Saving Your Soul". Pastor Colin explores the invaluable worth of your soul and how it can be saved according to the Bible. This message is tailored for everyone, as it directly concerns the essence of your life and eternal future. Pastor Colin bases his teachings on the letter of 1 Peter, which places significant emphasis on the soul. By turning to this scripture, particularly focusing on chapter 2, verses 24 and 25, we gain profound insights into the spiritual significance of our existence. Throughout today's broadcast, Pastor Colin discusses three common distortions of the gospel, helping us to identify and correct misunderstandings that could lead us astray.

Today, we're delving into the profound and essential topic of your soul's worth. Pastor Colin unpacks why caring for your soul should be a priority over everything else, explaining the eternal impact of neglecting this vital aspect of our being. We're starting with a thought-provoking discussion on how modern culture often values physical wellness over spiritual health. Pastor Colin shares insights on how this shift has led many away from church, emphasising the critical importance of maintaining a healthy inner life. Our message today, "Valuing Your Soul," will explore why your soul is of unparalleled importance. Through intriguing metaphors and biblical references, Pastor Colin highlights how temptations stick to our souls if they are not guarded, nurtured, and steadfastly rooted in faith. If you'd like to follow along, we'll be diving into the passages from Mark Chapter 8. It's a journey that not only addresses why your soul matters but also the eternal consequences of how it's cared for—or neglected.

Welcome to Open The Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. Today we're diving into a fascinating topic: our souls. In today's discussion, we'll explore what the soul truly is, why it is of supreme value, and how to care for it. Pastor Colin will lead us through various Scriptures, starting with Mark 8, to understand more about the eternal nature of our souls. Pastor Colin shares a delightful way he taught his children about the soul: "I have a soul, it's inside me, I cannot see it, it lasts forever." This simple yet profound statement reminds us that our soul, unlike the body, is eternal and immensely valuable. Are you unclear about what a soul is? Is it even a term we hear in everyday conversations anymore? In our secular world, we've moved away from spiritual language, but the Bible brings it back into focus. C.S. Lewis once wisely said, "You don't have a soul. You are a soul. You have a body." This highlights that your soul is at the core of your being and is indispensable to your identity. As we begin our new series titled "Soul Care," today's message is aptly named "Valuing Your Soul." Pastor Colin will help us understand the importance of caring for our souls by exploring why it's of such great value, how it can be lost, and how it can be saved. He'll guide us through powerful teachings of Jesus, who spoke about saving and losing one's soul, emphasizing its eternal significance and the need for proper spiritual care. If you ever miss one of our messages, remember, you can always visit our website at openthebible.org.uk where you can download past messages or find our podcast. Simply search for "Open The Bible UK" on your regular podcasting site, subscribe, and stay updated. We hope today's message inspires you to reflect deeply on your soul's worth and encourages you to take steps towards caring for it. Don't miss the start of this transformative series!

Pastor Colin delves deeply into concepts of heaven, hell, and Christ's profound love and sacrifice. He explains the Christian understanding of Jesus entering hell so that we might never have to experience it. Pastor Colin shares the astonishing demonstration of God's love for us through Jesus' journey to the cross. Moreover, we explore the book of Isaiah, where we catch a rare glimpse of both heaven and hell and reflect upon our dire need for a saviour. The scripture’s insights unveil the profound joy, vigour, and community that await in heaven, while painting a harrowing picture of the eternal separation from God's love in hell. Pastor Colin articulates the essential Christian belief: Jesus faced hell on our behalf, offering salvation and hope to all who believe. As we conclude our inspiring series, "Restore My Soul," we're reminded of God's enduring promise of restoration and the ultimate choice that lies before us. Whether you're a longtime believer or simply curious about faith, today's message offers significant reflections for the soul. For those feeling the call to deepening their faith or learning more about Christ, you're encouraged to seek community in a church fellowship or explore resources like the Alpha program.

In today’s message titled "Restore Worship", taken from our series "Restore My Soul", we will explore the last verses of Isaiah’s prophecy concerning the miseries of Hell, the joy of Heaven, and how both of these realities should shape our worship and lives today. As we navigate through Isaiah's words, we are invited to consider our own journey, the choices we make, and the eternal implications they hold. Whether it's a reflection on the narrow road that leads to life or the broad road to destruction, the sermon prompts us to ponder deeply our individual paths. Furthermore, the broadcast will discuss the contrasting fates of the righteous and the wicked, as seen through the lens of Scripture. It provides a moment to visualise the joy of those embracing salvation and the sorrow of those facing judgment. Join us as we open the Bible and receive encouragement, wisdom, and challenge from God's word. If you happen to miss any part of this message or wish to revisit past teachings, remember that you can always catch up online at openthebible.org.uk</a