Commons Church Podcast

In this sermon on Hebrews 11–12:2, Bobbi explores "learning to listen to ancestors." The message reclaims Christian tradition not as a restrictive relic to escape, but as an inherited wisdom that anchors people against isolation and everyday pressures. By examining how the writer of Hebrews reframes flawed historical figures and presents Jesus as the pioneer and finish line of faith, Bobbi illustrates how individual struggles are part of a shared, interconnected marathon where past and present believers are perfected together. Ultimately, listening to spiritual ancestors equips us to enter fully into our own human experience, finding endurance in the surrounding "cloud of witnesses" and taking up the responsibility to live faithfully so that we, too, become good ancestors for the generations to come.Hebrews 11-12:2 ★ Support this podcast ★

Scott draws on the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19 to examine how nature speaks to our greatest fears, and how it can also move us into moments of divine encounter. He argues that Elijah’s experience of stillness in the natural world is a model for us to follow in a world full of so much noise. We’re invited to welcome the ways that nature grounds us and guides us in all our next steps.I Kings 19:1-18 ★ Support this podcast ★

What might we hear from God if we made more room to listen to people we don’t yet know?In Genesis 18, Abraham welcomes three unexpected visitors. This sermon explores the mystery of that encounter and asks how curiosity and hospitality might open us to conversations we never saw coming.What would it look like to roll up the sides of our tents and pay attention to who is nearby? ★ Support this podcast ★

What if loving your neighbour begins with listening—before deciding who they are or what they deserve?In this message, we revisit the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 and explore how Jesus shifts the question from identifying our neighbours to becoming a neighbour. Along the way, we consider the invitation to hear at the heart of the greatest commandment, the familiar stories we’ve stopped listening to, and the compassion that grows when someone else’s story becomes part of ours.An invitation to stay curious longer, open conversations without an agenda, and practise kindness even when the people closest to us get on our nerves. ★ Support this podcast ★

What if your doubts don’t disqualify you from faith?In Mark 9, a father brings Jesus an honest prayer: “I believe; help my unbelief.” His story invites us to let go of perfection, make room for uncertainty, and take the next step toward the future we hope for.From the mountaintop transfiguration to Jesus’ compassion in the valley, this message explores how hope becomes tangible in ordinary life—and why imperfect faith is enough to begin.You don’t have to believe perfectly to belong. Bring your questions, your hope, and whatever faith you have today.Scripture: Mark 9:2–7, 14–18, 20–24 ★ Support this podcast ★