Red Church

In the final message of the "Compelling Church" series, Mark Sayers explores the concept of a spiritual "monastery" at the centre of church life, drawing parallels to how historical monasteries preserved faith during cultural collapse through prayer and holy patterns. As Melbourne's winter approaches, Mark and Trudi introduce a new series called "The Furnace," inviting listeners into a four-month journey of intentional prayer to reignite spiritual passion and overcome what Joshua faced: fear and discouragement. Through examining God's promise that "I will never leave you nor forsake you," Mark challenges believers to become spiritual "pillars" who create space for flourishing in their communities by maintaining a furnace of prayer at the center of their spiritual lives—not through their own strength, but through the compelling presence of Jesus.

Pastor Mark Sayers continues "The Compelling Church" series by exploring how worship lifts us into heaven's reality and awakens us from spiritual sleepiness. Drawing from Revelation 5 and the story of Deborah, Mark reveals how our increasingly isolated society coincides with a renewed hunger for genuine spiritual presence. As nightclubs close and social spaces decline globally, the church has a unique opportunity to offer what people are truly seeking—the compelling presence of Jesus. Mark challenges listeners to enter fully into worship, pursue God's presence over personal preference, and allow our worship to empower us for mission in a surprisingly receptive world.

Mark Sayers explores how discipleship makes the church truly compelling. Drawing from John 1:35-43, He shares surprising research showing increased church attendance among younger generations, challenging the narrative of church decline.The core insight: "Discipleship is the process of becoming who Jesus would be if he were you." You're invited to imagine Jesus navigating your circumstances and see how surrendering to Christ releases His power into everyday challenges.Whether new to faith or seeking deeper commitment, this sermon offers a fresh perspective on following Jesus in today's world.

Pastor Mark challenges prevailing narratives about declining faith by revealing surprising statistics showing spiritual growth in Australia. In this first message of "The Compelling Church" series, he shares evidence of a spiritual awakening and outlines what makes a church truly magnetic: Jesus at the centre, mission, fervent prayer, Spirit-filled gatherings, and whole-life discipleship. Discover how you and your church can position itself for this unexpected harvest moment when people are increasingly open to faith.

Explore the transformative power of Christ's resurrection and how it disrupts our expectations. Delve into the journey from doubt to belief through Thomas's story. Examine the rising Christian faith among Australians over 55 and the surprising commitment of millennials to church. Reflect on mortality and humanity's longing for life beyond death. This message encourages a personal embrace of hope and a deeper intimacy with faith, highlighting the revolutionary nature of resurrection in our world.

In this Good Friday message, Pastor Mark Sayers explores the theme of spiritual homesickness and our journey back to God. Drawing from the story of the Queen of Sheba's quest for wisdom and Jesus's sacrifice on the cross, Mark illuminates how humanity's exile from Eden has created a universal longing for our true home with God

In this message, Trudi Sayers unpacks the profound significance of Palm Sunday and what it means for believers today. Drawing parallels between Jesus's triumphant entry into Jerusalem and our own spiritual journey, Trudi explores how this historical moment announces Christ's leadership, servant methods, and saving mission. Discover how we can walk with "the end in mind," maintaining hope despite life's storms, and embrace a kingdom perspective that cannot be shaken. A timely reminder that our Redeemer lives and has gone before us in every circumstance we face.

Lindy unpacks Jesus' challenging Parable of the Ten Minas from Luke 19. As we journey through Lent, she explores what it means to live faithfully in the time between Christ's first and second coming. Through the stories of a blind man who truly "sees" Jesus and Zacchaeus whose life is transformed, Lindy reminds us that God calls us not to play it safe, but to boldly steward everything He's entrusted to us. This powerful message challenges listeners to examine their choices and actions while offering hope that God equips us with everything we need to hear those beautiful words: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Pastor Mark Sayers dives into the powerful implications of Holman Hunt's painting, "The Shadow of Death." He explores how the cross of Christ transforms our everyday lives and challenges our pursuit of happiness. Listeners are invited to embrace the paradox of surrendering to Christ, which is both a difficult and freeing journey. The discussion emphasizes community, the importance of humility, and the role of the cross in redefining what it means to lead a faith-driven life in today's world.

Lindy Wilson explores the biblical metaphor of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasising that connecting with God is less about spiritual techniques and more about developing an intimate relationship. Drawing on the imagery of sheep dependence, she reveals how God speaks not through grand gestures, but through gentle whispers in everyday moments. Using a compelling comparison between the Holy Spirit's loving guidance and the enemy's condemning voices, Wilson invites listeners to trust God's character, recognise His compassionate communication, and remain close to Jesus like sheep staying near their protective shepherd.