Open the Bible UK Broadcast

Today's episode called "Defiant", tackles Hebrews chapter 6, exploring the sobering reality of spiritual experiences that may fall short of true faith in Jesus Christ. Pastor Colin reflects on the tendency for some individuals, even those raised in Christian environments, to drift away or become defiant toward Christ. This message underscores the importance of returning to the heart of faith and embracing Jesus' love and redemption. Whether you're revisiting familiar teachings or discovering them anew, this episode offers an inspiring invitation to evaluate your faith journey.

Why might those who have tasted the gospel turn away and become defiant? This episode focuses on Hebrews chapter six, addressing the deeply compelling character of 'Defiant,' who represents individuals who have experienced Christianity but chose a different path. Pastor Colin highlights the distinction between spiritual and saving experiences, elucidating how even those who seem engaged with the faith can still turn away. Through real examples from scripture, including the stories of Peter, Judas, and others, Colin reveals the complexities of spiritual commitment and defiance.

Do you feel like you are 'drifting' in faith? Today we explore the journey of a character named Drifting, who represents those who find themselves without clear convictions and are in search of something more in their spiritual lives.We will dive into the book of Hebrews, uncovering its teachings on steadfast faith and enduring conviction. The conversation touches on the essential understanding that true faith is one that perseveres, and fleeting professions of faith may not stand the test of time. Listeners are encouraged to explore their foundations of faith and understand the necessity of Jesus in their lives.

Welcome to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith! In today's episode, we delve into the crucial role of influence in our lives. Pastor Colin challenges us to reflect deeply on our personal spheres of influence—be it friends, family, work, or church—and to consider what kind of influence we are having. This practical message centres around seven pivotal questions designed to help us evaluate our spiritual progress and readiness to be of service to others. Join us in examining how our daily actions and spiritual growth can profoundly impact those around us and the greater community. Don't miss this enlightening and enriching discussion as we explore Psalm 23 and embark on a journey of spiritual self-assessment and growth. Let us encourage one another in this journey and embrace the influence God has entrusted to us!

Being a Christian means being roped to Jesus Christ. Today, Pastor Colin flips the perception of being yoked to Christ as a burden and presents an encouraging message of hope. He explores how our Saviour can hold onto us even when we fall, offering an in-depth look through the book of Jude.Join us as we explore how God saves us not only from sin's penalty but also from its power and presence. Listen to Pastor Colin paint a vivid picture of this journey and delve into how God positions us to fight against sin's grip. With captivating analogies from climbing to boxing, this message is one of hope and triumph in the Christian life.

Today Colin explains that while our journey with faith in Jesus Christ begins with the forgiveness of our sins and freedom from condemnation, it doesn't end there. Salvation, indeed, is a process that involves a wonderful, ongoing transformation.Within this episode, Colin explores the three-fold perspective of salvation as described in the Bible: it's an accomplished event, a current process, and a future hope. Discover how we are not only saved from sin's penalty but are being progressively freed from its power as we set our sights on the future promise of being fully present with Christ.As we focus on the book of Jude, Colin discusses the essential workouts for a healthy Christian life, emphasising the need for spiritual discipline as we await the complete fulfilment of our salvation in the presence of Jesus. Get ready for an insightful journey that encourages us to rest in God's triumph while remaining vigilant in our walk of faith.

How can we be spiritually vigilent? Based on Jude verse 23. Pastor Colin reminds us that temptation is a universal struggle and urges us to heed the words of Jesus: "watch and pray, so that you do not enter into temptation." We'll explore why it's crucial to stay alert and the strategies we can use to guard against sin, including self-examination and reflecting on the cross. Colin also challenges us to be realistic about our vulnerabilities and to rely on Jesus Christ for protection. As always, the Bible offers practical wisdom and clear directives to help us walk in a way that's honouring to Jesus.

How do we balance confidence and skepticism in the Christian faith? Pastor Colin explains how balancing trust in Jesus with a healthy skepticism of ourselves is akin to a bicycle having two functioning wheels — both are necessary to move forward effectively. Join us as Pastor Colin unpacks insights from the book of Jude, encouraging us to ‘Watch Yourself’, by maintaining awareness of our own tendencies and spiritual responsibilities. Additionally, discover how the influence of the wrong leaders can lead the church astray, and what steps we can take to 'keep ourselves in spiritual shape'. Embark on this insightful journey with us and strengthen your spiritual walk.

Pastor Colin dives deep into the imagery of Christians as "burning sticks snatched from the fire," a compelling metaphor derived from the book of Jude. Join us as we explore how this vivid picture illustrates God's mercy and the continuous journey of spiritual growth. Discover how every Christian, though scarred by sin, is rescued and restored by God's grace. As Pastor Colin unpacks Jude's advice on ministry, learn why compassion, humility, and gratitude are at the heart of reaching out to others. Reflect on how God can use even the charred pieces of our lives for His purposes.

Today we dive into the inspiring message titled "Reach Out to Others," focusing on sustaining spiritual health through ministry. Pastor Colin, with his 40 years of experience, enlightens us on the dual nature of ministry — it may be draining, but is also wonderfully nourishing, much like Jesus described His mission as His food. Tune into this enriching discussion as we explore the seven spiritual exercises from the book of Jude, showing us how to maintain spiritual fitness. Remember, reaching out to help one another not only aids others but refreshes our own souls.

In today's episode titled "Learn to Wait," Pastor Colin delves into the theme of patience and spiritual growth during life's waiting periods. Through the lens of biblical examples like Jonah and Judas Iscariot, we explore how aligning with God's plans rather than our own desires leads to a fulfilling Christian life. As Pastor Colin opens the book of Jude, verse 21, he suggests three key ways to grow spiritually while waiting: embracing life's disappointments with patience, cultivating hope in the anticipation of heaven, and deepening our worship by loving God in both pain and pleasure. With his insightful and compassionate approach, Pastor Colin invites us to see our unfulfilled desires as opportunities for spiritual growth and to trust in God's plan.

While our fast-paced world sees waiting as something to endure, God presents it as an opportunity for us to grow in faith and develop patience. Join Colin as he explores how waiting can transform your spiritual journey, shaping your relationship with God as you embrace life's disappointments. Don't miss "Learn to Wait" from our series "Keeping Yourself in Spiritual Shape," as we unpack how waiting is a critical spiritual discipline that can lead to deeper discoveries of God's grace.

How do we remain in God's love, even on our most challenging days? Pastor Colin discusses insightful passages from the book of Jude, reminding us that keeping ourselves in the love of God isn't about earning His affection, but rather about creating a pathway for His love to flow into our lives and those around us.Join us as we delve into practical ways to experience and reflect God's love through remembering, obeying, and reflecting. This message offers both comfort and challenge, asking us to consider what habits might be blocking the warmth of God's love and how we can better align ourselves to His will.

What does it mean to keep ourselves in God's love? Is it possible for a Christian to slip out of His love, and if it's up to us to stay in this love, how do we go about it?Explore the marvellous truth of God's love as Pastor Colin explains different aspects of it—from God's general love for the world to His particular love for His children. We delve into Jude 21 and learn how Jude acts as our coach, guiding us through spiritual workouts to maintain spiritual health.In this message, we begin journeying through God's providential, saving, covenant, disciplining, and affirming love. You'll find answers to worrisome questions and learn practical ways to experience and remain in God's love in your daily life. Join us as we embark on this spiritual workout of remembering, obeying, and reflecting on God's immense love for us.

Today’s discussion dives into the heart of prayer as a dynamic partnership involving the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Many of us feel our prayer life could improve, and Pastor Colin offers three practical steps to pray more effectively. Rooted in Jude and drawing from the enchanting energy of historical church revivals, you’ll discover how to engage in passionate, Spirit-led prayer. Together, we explore aligning our will with God’s and embracing His purpose, transforming our routine devotions into extraordinary encounters.

In today's message, we're diving deep into the topic of prayer with an intriguing question: which God do we pray to? Pastor Colin shares that sooner or later, we all find ourselves in moments where we yearn for divine help and explains why it's crucial to know the God of the Bible, rather than one of our own making.We'll explore the teaching from the book of Jude, focusing on the second of seven spiritual workouts: 'Pray in the Holy Spirit'. Learn how true Christian prayer is directed to God the Father, offered through God the Son, and is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Discover the transformative power of praying in alignment with God's will, and how this can change your life.Stay with us as we unravel these important teachings and gain practical insights into deepening our prayer life, moving from prayers that are irregular and aimless to ones that are Spirit-led and purposeful.

Today, we explore an unshakeable truth: the miracle of faith. Despite life's unanswered questions, bitter disappointments, and exhausting struggles, our faith endures. Pastor Colin encourages us to be grateful for this divine gift and demonstrates how it can grow stronger through giving thanks, affirming, exercising, and feeding on Jesus Christ. Learn to build yourself up in your most holy faith, embracing the trials and trusting God's work within. For those on a spiritual journey, remember, it's not about the strength of your faith but its miraculous existence that is awe-inspiring. Don't miss the chance to nurture your soul and deepen your understanding of faith's enduring power.

Are you contending for the authentic faith entrusted to the saints or settling for a comfortable version tailored to your lifestyle? Through a study of the Book of Jude, Pastor Colin challenges us to build ourselves up in faith, offering a balanced "spiritual workout" to keep us spiritually fit amidst cultural pressures.This engaging discussion highlights the importance of recognising and nurturing the faith that may feel small but is nonetheless a miraculous gift from God. Pastor Colin provides practical steps to strengthen our spiritual life, encouraging us to acknowledge the grace at work within us and offering wisdom from Jude’s letter to fuel our journey.Tune in to discover how to navigate the spiritual battles of our time with steadfastness and joy. Don't miss this insightful exploration into living a faith that is true, vibrant, and capable of standing firm in any season.

In today's episode, we delve into the intriguing world of Proverbs 31 and the often-daunting image of the Proverbs 31 woman. Pastor Colin invites listeners to discover a fresh, gospel-centred perspective on this chapter—as not a list of demands, but an expansive view of the opportunities and freedom it represents. This episode promises to shift your perspective, offering encouragement and liberation through the lens of God's grace. Through this engaging broadcast, Pastor Colin dismantles overwhelming expectations and reframes Proverbs 31 as a vision of what a godly woman's life can encompass when guided by God's purpose and fear of the Lord. With a unique twist, he explores the possibility of Bathsheba's transformative journey, highlighting the extraordinary work of God's grace in her life, illustrating what God's grace can accomplish for each one of us.

What can Proverbs 31 teach us about being A Woman of Godly Character? Today we delve into how embracing God's purpose and having astute priorities can guide women through life's demands with grace and wisdom. This episode is filled with practical encouragement that resonates with both women and men. Tune in for insights into establishing boundaries through a fear of the Lord and a supportive partnership with a husband, providing clarity amidst the busyness of life.