11th March 2012

The reading is from Luke 4:1-15 continuing to look at the temptations of Jesus in the wilderness. This week the talk looks at the middle temptation to take over the kingdoms of the world – what became a regular feature of various temptations- for taking a short cut to power, glory, influence and wealth. Although partly a test of loyalty it also represents what type of Messiah Jesus would be based around righteousness and justice. Churches, as well as individuals, need to decide just what they are compromising by gaining access to privileges and what strings are attached when accommodating with authorities.

Notes will usually be available on the downloads section of the VPBC website

4th March

“ Eating stones” is the title of this week’s talk from Jane and looks at the first of the temptations of Jesus in the wilderness in Luke 4:1-15. The talk particularly looks at how lines of doubt and insecurity can make us open to taking short cuts to success as against the deep value of learning and being trained through difficulties.

Notes will usually be available on the downloads section of the VPBC website

26th February 2012

The reading is from James 1:2-18 in Jane examining the question of resilience in our Christian lives. When people face difficulties can they bounce back stronger, are they able to leap into action after trouble? Jane examines the biblical roots around the English words translated as trials and temptations. How that the temptation faced by taking an easier route is harder to tackle than avoidance of outright evil. That in learning to be faithful and establishing a pattern and history of obedience helps build resilience.

Notes will usually be available on the downloads section of the VPBC website