Open the Bible UK Broadcast

We delve into the heartfelt cries of believers who, despite their devout worship, prayer, Bible reading, and fasting, find themselves frustrated with God. They're left wondering why they're grappling with unanswered prayers and trouble befalling their nation. We'll explore the profound message of Isaiah, chapter 58, and the vital concepts of truth, justice, integrity, and what it truly means to have a transformative relationship with God—as individuals and within our communities. So grab your Bible and discover the illuminating insights from Pastor Colin on how understanding Jesus Christ makes a difference not only to our personal lives but to our communities, nations, and indeed, the world. If you missed any part of the series or would like to revisit our discussions, you can stream previous broadcasts at openthebible.org.uk.

Pastor Colin challenges common misconceptions about revival as he unfolds the true biblical meaning of a contrite heart and a genuine encounter with the Spirit of God. Learn about the kindness that leads to repentance and the divine process of restoration that can bring new life, peace, joy, and hope into our being. Join us as we delve into Isaiah Chapter 57 and uncover significant truths about confronting our sinfulness, the indispensable need for a Saviour, and the transformative presence of God in our lives. Hear testimonies of lives radically changed by revival and be encouraged to seek that immediate awareness of God's nearness. As we continue our series on the message 'Restore Repentance', let's be reminded that it's not through judgment that our stubborn hearts are softened but through the undeserving mercy that flows from the cross of Christ. May this broadcast inspire you to echo the prayer for God to restore repentance in your own heart, leading to a closer walk with Him.

Have you ever felt a sense of distance from God, as if your faith has gone cold and your heart's leaning towards spiritual barrenness? Well, you're not alone, and today's message aims to gently guide you back to a place where you can polish off the slate and rekindle that warm, near presence of God once more. Pastor Colin delves into Isaiah Chapter 57, exploring themes of revival, repentance, and the profound truth that God chooses to dwell not just in high and holy places, but also with those who are contrite and humble in spirit. It's a message that speaks directly to those yearning for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit, a revival in their hearts, and a restored connection with the divine. Whether you feel far from God due to life’s challenges or a sense of spiritual desolation, this episode affirms that the Lord reaches out to clear the path back to Him. So, if you're ready to rediscover the joy of your faith and find restorative peace in the arms of Jesus, this broadcast is for you. Join us as we unwrap the answers to the pivotal question: Where can I find God?

Today, we unravel the comforting truth that through sorrow, we may very well discover the backdoor to joy—an experience that intertwines with our spiritual growth and our deeper longing to be like Jesus. Through Isaiah chapters 54 and 55, Pastor Colin reveals that in times of despair, when happiness seems unattainable, there lies a profound opportunity for us to encounter God in a tremendous way. He enlightens us that, often, God uses our sorrow to spark a thirst for joy within our souls, leading us to find fullness and happiness as we align our desires with His. It's about how when we truly understand our soul's need for restoration, we can earnestly ask for and receive God's joy. We're reminded of the importance of building community within the church, supporting and finding joy in each other through Jesus Christ. Pastor Colin reassures us that whether you have faced significant life challenges or feel stuck in contentment, everyone has the potential to access this divine joy. He encourages us to come, seek, listen, and turn, as a continous practice to cultivate this joy that transcends our earthly experiences.

Today's episode focuses on finding joy amidst our most challenging experiences – a theme that resonates with many. Pastor Colin delves into Isaiah chapters 54 and 55, painting vivid scenes of human sorrow: the barren woman, the deserted wife, and the afflicted city reeling from storms. Yet, in these images of despair, Isaiah identifies an unexpected undercurrent of joy. Through the saving grace of Jesus Christ, those who have known great sorrow can discover profound joy in God's people, His love, and His coming city. It's a message of hope for all, regardless of our struggles or pain. This episode is not just insightful teachings but a guiding light for anyone seeking solace and strength in their faith journey. Pastor Colin's empathy and understanding of human suffering offer a lifeline, assuring us that through faith, we can turn our deepest sorrows into our greatest joys. If you've ever questioned where joy can be found during life's storms, this broadcast is a must-listen. Don't miss out on the full episode, and remember, you can always catch up or re-listen at openthebible.org.uk or on your favourite podcast platform by searching for Open the Bible UK. Join us in embracing the message that joy, even in sorrow, is possible with Jesus Christ.

Welcome to today's broadcast of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. Today's message, "Restore Faith", is part of the series Restore My Soul, and dives into the practice of internalising the truth of God's Word among the lies of the world. In this episode, Pastor Colin discusses the crucial habit that every Christian needs to develop—preaching the gospel to oneself every day. He emphasises how this practice helps counteract the falsehoods we encounter daily and reinforces the transformative power of God's truth in our lives. Through the illustration of Joseph's story from the Old Testament, Pastor Colin shows us that looking at our life through the lens of faith can radically change our perspective on our experiences. The episode also touches on the profound impact of acknowledging and enjoying the love of Jesus Christ every day. Pastor Colin encourages listeners to embrace, understand, and rejoice in their identity in Christ, which is key to refreshing and renewing the soul.

In today's broadcast, we delve into our existence as eternal beings through Christ's sacrifice! For those of you in Christ, think how seemingly enduring sufferings of this world pale in comparison to the joyous eternity that awaits you. This perspective is not just comforting; it's transformative. Pastor Colin will lead us today in the first of our heartening series titled 'Restore My Soul', and it's a series Pastor Colin believe many will find particularly uplifting in times when our faith feels challenged and our soul cries out for revival. Rooted in the encouraging words of Isaiah 53 and Psalm 23, Pastor Colin reminds us that our Lord is a shepherd who seeks to restore our souls, comforting us even when His presence feels distant. Let's listen keenly to the message 'Restore Faith', which is about the remarkable depth of Jesus's love for us - a love that has conquered suffering and sin forever. Whether you're facing trials or seeking to deepen your faith, join us in contemplating the eternal impact of Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

"Is assurance confidence before God not presumptuous"? This is a vital question that many who believe in Jesus wrestle with as they navigate their faith. Can one truly have assurance without seeming presumptuous? How can sinners be confident before a righteous God? This broadcast delves into these deep spiritual waters with clarity and compassion. For those who grapple with self-doubt yet cling to Christ, this message is especially poignant. Remember, it's not the level of assurance but the grace of Christ that saves. Join us as we examine seven insights for growing in faith and fostering the joyous assurance that is available to every Christian believer. If you're curious about the previous insights, visit our website to catch up on what you've missed. Today, we continue our journey with Romans chapter 5 – a beacon of hope and strength for every listener seeking solace in the truths of Scripture.

for those lamenting the fragility of their faith, today's broadcast promises to be a beacon of hope. Pastor Colin shares some comforting insights - if you ever feel alone in your doubts, remember, you are in good company. Reflect on the disciples' journeys, their doubts and the patient, guiding hand of Jesus. In our exploration of Romans Chapter 5, we delve into the topic of 'Rejoicing in the Work of Christ'. Pastor Colin will guide us through what faith truly is, how it can be cultivated and what it looks like when fully grown. Assurance in our faith doesn't stem from its robustness but rather the reliability of Christ. So regardless of whether our faith feels weak or strong, it's Christ's strength that ensures our heavenly passage. If you've ever questioned the presumption of assurance, Pastor Colin clarifies this beautifully - it's not about pride in our works, but praise for Christ's sacrifice. It's his work, not ours, that salvation rests upon. This is a profound reminder of where our confidence should be anchored.

In today's broadcast, we learn that our earthly journey towards obedience and holiness is a reflection of the divine destiny that awaits in heaven. Pastor Colin illuminates the powerful connection between faith and obedience, emphasising that genuine faith inherently propels us towards a life led in step with God's will. In a world punctuated by the incessant buzzing of mobile phones, Pastor Colin helps us navigate the modern challenges and distractions that those who came before us never faced. Yet at the same time Pastor Colin reminds us that the core message of Jesus remains unchanged: God calls us to the obedience of faith. Our conversation today takes us through the rich tapestry of Romans 1, where the Apostle Paul introduces the compelling idea that true faith manifests as intentional obedience. This is not the superficial adherence to a set of rules, but a deeper, transformative alignment of our desires and actions with God's purpose, borne out of a heartfelt relationship with Christ.

In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin addresses two prevalent misconceptions that many believers confront. On one hand, there are those who, after deciding to follow Jesus, might live recklessly, underestimating the importance of their actions. On the other hand, some are burdened by the weight of repeated failures and a feeling of unworthiness. But the gospel offers a glorious third way—one that doesn't depend on our own merit yet inspires a life that honours Jesus Christ through obedience arising from faith. Join us as we explore Romans 1 to understand how saving faith is not just intellectually assenting to truths about Christ. It's about forming a living bond with Him, characterised by a genuine transformation of both belief and behaviour. So whether you're struggling with the constant effort to prove yourself to God or the inclination to live without regard for obedience, listen in to discover how the gospel equips us to walk in obedience with Christ.

We're excited to delve into the richness of prayer together with you today. Pastor Colin offers a vivid picture—prayer as a means to unearth the buried treasures found within the promises of God. Imagine walking through a field laden with hidden gems beneath your feet, yet never taking a moment to dig. Such is our situation when we neglect the power of prayer. In today's message, "Praying in the Name of Christ," Pastor Colin urges us not to overlook the amazing potential prayer has in bringing God's promises to bear in our lives. We'll explore the balance between praying with submission for the things God has yet to reveal, and praying with assurance for the things He has promised us in His Word. We will also hear fascinating insights from the life of the influential preacher C.H. Spurgeon, discovering how prayer played an instrumental role in his ministry during the late 1800s in London. This historical account underscores the enduring truth that the Spirit moves in our prayers, shaping outcomes beyond our imagination.

What does it mean to pray with faith? Pastor Colin illuminates this by exploring the duality of faith-filled prayer. He explains that when God's will is known, we can pray with confidence, but in uncertain situations, we must pray with a heart of submission. Through the story of Elijah and the scriptures in James chapter 5, we learn that praying with assurance comes from a promise of Scripture or a prompt from the Spirit. But true faith also means submitting to God's will when it isn't disclosed to us upfront. As we journey through today's message titled "Praying in the Name of Christ," we examine the anatomy of faith and its profound connection to prayer. So, grab your Bible and join us in James 5, as we seek to deepen our understanding of faith and how it shapes the way we communicate with God.

Are you under the impression that Christianity is all about a dull life filled with duties and rules? Let's shift that perspective together! In Romans chapter 4, verses 17 to 21, we delve into the message "Declaring the Praise of Christ" and discover how faith is so much more than simply fulfilling obligations. Faith is about recognition of our own limitations, yet embracing the hope and promise presented through Jesus Christ. It's about the transformation from duty to delight, leading us to a life of genuine rejoicing in the Lord. Join us as Pastor Colin explains the liberating truth that through faith in Christ, God credits us with righteousness, not because of our own merits, but because of His grace and love. So, if you've ever felt weighed down by what you perceived as a restrictive religious life, this broadcast might just change your whole outlook!

Faith, as Pastor Colin beautifully illustrates, is not merely a positive outlook or self-confidence, It's a lived experience of trust and reliance on God, especially when faced with the impossible. Abraham and Sarah's story exemplifies faith, offering us a timeless lesson that true faith begins with acknowledging our own limitations and looking to God for all possibilities. In today's broadcast, we journey through Romans 4:17-21. We'll unpack how faith isn't about cheerleading for the improbable, but acknowledging that within ourselves, we are limited. In realising our own incapacity, we open ourselves to the empowering grace of God – for faith leads us not to our own strength but to His.

In today's episode, we delve into the The Lord's Supper (Communion), exploring the question: Where is the meal in this humble supper of wafer (bread) and wine? What does it mean to truly 'feed' on Christ? How do we engage in the nourishment of our souls through such a minimal feast? Pastor Colin guides us through the essence of this ceremony, revealing the depth of spiritual sustenance that comes from partaking with faith in Jesus Christ. As we journey through John Chapter 6, we uncover the symbolism of the bread and wine and the transformative experience it offers—a feeding on Jesus' perfect righteousness and the forgiveness of sins. This fellowship with the Saviour is a vital source of strength and encouragement for the Christian believer.

Today we delve into an enlightening discussion on the essence of the Christian life—that it is God's work in which we become involved, rather than our work in which He becomes involved. We explore the temptation of focusing on our own deeds to the extent that we might lose sight of the divine workings of God. Pastor Colin Smith brings to light the importance of not getting caught up in our efforts to the point where we overshadow God's initiatives. The heart of being a Christian, he suggests, means responding to God, who is always reaching out to us. This thought-provoking message also touches upon the joy and privilege of the Lord's Supper and how we, as believers, can approach it with a renewed sense of fellowship with Christ, for it is He who invites us to partake. We learn that the Lord's Supper is not just an act of remembrance, but an encounter where Christ himself offers nourishment and reaffirms His covenant with us. Join us as we uncover the significance of communion and how it plays a role in strengthening our faith through the powerful words and symbolism provided by Jesus himself.

Welcome to Open The Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. Today, Pastor Colin will be exploring a thought-provoking definition of sin as being 'bent in on oneself'. With the illuminating guidance of the Scriptures and the insightful reflections of historical figures like Augustine, we'll consider how sin distorts our human condition, causing us to focus inwardly, rather than on God and others. Yet, there is a transformative power in the Spirit of Christ that lifts us from this inward curvature, enabling us to look outward and upward - to serve and to love as we were truly meant to. Join us as we delve deep into the heart of our faith, examining what it means to be straightened up by Christ and how service is not only a response to faith but a vital sign of its presence in our lives.

In Galatians Chapter 5, verse 6, we read that faith's true essence is revealed through actions of love rather than faith alone. But why is this distinction so vital? Pastor Colin explores the significance of faith that manifests itself through love, emphasizing that without love, faith is simply not authentic. We'll discover that Christ-like faith is inherently active and giving, a true reflection of the selfless service that Jesus exemplified throughout his life. Whether you're deeply rooted in your faith or exploring spirituality anew, this broadcast promises to offer valuable insights. Join us in understanding the transformative power of genuine faith - one that not only believes but also acts with selfless love.

In this broadcast, Pastor Colin delves into the importance of actively engaging with the scripture as it's the fundamental means by which God communicates with us. At the heart of the preaching ministry is the firm belief that God blesses His own words, not ours. As followers of Christ, we're encouraged to come to the Bible expectantly, ready to be nourished and enriched by its timeless wisdom. Whether you're amidst life's trials or simply seeking spiritual sustenance, Pastor Colin emphasises the necessity of being receptive and prepared to apply God's teachings to our unique circumstances. He suggests bringing a physical Bible and something to jot down notes as tangible ways to better absorb and reflect upon the message. Today's teaching focuses on Romans chapter 10, exploring the theme 'Listening to the Word of Christ'. It’s a practical guide on how we ought to approach sermons, not as passive listeners but as active participants ready to apply the word to our lives. And if you’re someone struggling with faith, Pastor Colin reassures that faith itself is born through hearing the Word of Christ.