They brought [Jesus] to the place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull). And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. Mark 15:22-23 The wine mixed with myrrh had the same effect as a mild sedative. Crucifixion was so barbaric, and the pain involved so horrific, that according to tradition some relief was offered to t…

As part of our Christmas Stories series, this episode brings a surprising twist to the festive tale by introducing Abraham into the narrative. Despite living 2,000 years before Jesus's birth, Abraham was privy to the coming of the Saviour—a moment that had a life-changing impact on him and continues to hold significance for us today. Join us as Pas…

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 Jesus gave His life as “a ransom.” You need to know that there are a growing number of teachers in the church today who deny precious truths like this. These folks think it is “unworthy” to speak about God’s wrath or judgement. If you…

This Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God… Acts 2:23 The Bible gives us not only a description of what people heard and saw when Jesus died on the cross, but also an explanation of what God saw in Jesus' death. And in this explanation, God reveals what He was doing at the cross: Christ died for our sins (1 Cor…

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Mark 15:34 The New Testament tells us about the death of Jesus in two important but different ways: God gives us both description and explanation. And it’s important to hold these two together. The Gospels describe what actually happened. Mark gives us an eyewitness account. If you had been there, here is…

Welcome to another episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. This time, we're immersing ourselves in the Christmas Story through the fascinating perspective of the angel Gabriel. Imagine witnessing the birth of Jesus from the viewpoint of heaven! Gabriel shares an incredible narrative, depicting the anticipation and marvel of angels as the…

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 Here are three things you can do when you are suffering: Come to Jesus for comfort. Your Saviour has been tested in every way, and yet He was without sin. He knows what it is like to be bound, to be falsely ac…

Today's broadcast offers a fascinating and poignant journey into the life of King Herod, an unlikely figure in the Christmas story, who famously did not welcome Jesus Christ. Through Herod's perspective, we are invited to reflect on what it means to open our hearts to Jesus, juxtaposing Herod's choices with the opportunity we have today. Pastor Col…

When they had mocked him, they stripped him of the purple cloak… Mark 15:20 The charge against Jesus was that He claimed to be king. The soldiers picked up on this, and they put a purple robe on Him (15:17). This was not a bright purple robe. It was an old, worn-out cloak rubbed in the dirt. Mark said it was purple. Matthew said it was scarlet. Eit…

This week, we're diving into the story of Joseph, who had a ringside seat to the greatest event in human history - the birth of Jesus Christ. With so much focus on the hustle and bustle of Christmas, it’s easy to forget its true meaning. Pastor Colin eloquently reminds us that Christmas is about God reaching out to us through the miraculous incarna…

Pilate… having scourged Jesus… delivered him to be crucified. Mark 15:15 Jesus endured unspeakable physical pain. And His physical suffering speaks into our lives today. Some of us have experienced physical pain inflicted by another person. It’s a terrible thing. Most of us have experienced physical pain at some point in our lives, perhaps through …

In today's insightful episode, we journey through Joseph's perspective of the Christmas story, exploring the profound experiences and challenges he faces as the earthly father of Jesus. Imagine being Joseph and hearing the news of the virgin birth from Mary! Pastor Colin delves into the faith and obedience required of Joseph and the joy of being pr…

The chief priests accused him of many things. Mark 15:3 Roman law is one of the great legacies of the Roman Empire. And the governor, Pontius Pilate, was responsible for upholding justice by protecting the innocent and confronting the guilty. But when Jesus came before Pilate, there was no protection. The crowd was calling for Jesus to be crucified…

They bound Jesus and led him away and delivered him over to Pilate. Mark 15:1 Try to take this in: The hands that healed were bound, and so were the feet that brought good news. The Son of God was delivered into the hands of those who hated Him and wanted to hurt Him. And God allowed it to be so. Doesn’t Jesus have all power? Couldn’t He break thos…

Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. Hebrews 12:3 The Bible is such a practical book. It speaks to the realities of our lives. And it’s saying to us: Look, here you are as a disciple of Jesus and you're living in a difficult world. Following Christ isn’t easy, and mini…

In this episode, we delve into the captivating story of Simeon and his encounter with the Holy Child. Simeon prophesied the dual impact of Jesus' coming - the rising and falling of many. Through the narrative, Pastor Colin explores the profound responses to Jesus during the Christmas season and beyond. Discover what Simeon's story reveals about und…

Christ… suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21 At some point in your life, people will oppose you. They may even hate you. You may experience this in the context of business or in your family. Peter says the suffering of Jesus gives us a model to follow. What is His example? No retaliation When…

As we prepare for Christmas, today's episode offers a unique twist on the traditional story by exploring it through the eyes of Simeon, a humble layman from Jerusalem. Simeon's divine encounter allowed him to not only see but hold the Christ child and proclaim prophetic words over Him. This episode delves into Simeon's profound experience, filled w…

It was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. Hebrews 2:10 The word 'perfect' here means complete. Jesus became the saviour He is through His suffering. Suffering shapes a person. It builds character, depth, and sensitivity into yo…

Today we embark on an enlightening journey through our new series, "Christmas Stories." This series offers a vivid portrayal of the Christmas story through the eyes of those who witnessed it first-hand. Our exploration begins with "John's Story," where we position ourselves in the shoes of the Apostle John. Imagine witnessing the glory of Jesus Chr…

Today, we're delving into the heart of who Jesus is, focusing on 1 Timothy 3:16. This inspiring verse captures the essence of the Christian faith, describing Jesus' journey from being manifested in flesh to being taken up in glory. Colin Smith paints a vivid picture of how, through union with Christ, believers too are destined for glory. Join us as…

So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. Mark 15:15 In this description there are no gory details, just the facts. Notice how the Bible shows great restraint in describing the physical sufferings of Jesus. This is important because there’s a real temptation for…

Today’s broadcast dives into a vital topic: understanding what it truly means to believe in Jesus. A conversation that is both enriching and enlightening awaits as we explore the biblical essence of faith, which is not about the strength of your faith but the strength of your Saviour. Pastor Colin reminds us that belief is not just a personal senti…

“After I am raised up, I will go before you...” Mark 14:28 What about Judas? He wasn’t with the disciples in Galilee. He had already taken His own life. The problem for Judas was not that he committed a sin too great to be forgiven, but that he would not come to Christ for forgiveness. Don’t let that be true of you. Jesus went on ahead of them to G…

“After I am raised up, I will go before you...” Mark 14:28 What does this mean for us? If you belong to Jesus, He won't leave you in the misery of your failure. The risen Christ is in the business of gathering His scattered sheep. Your giving into temptation isn't the end of the story. Your falling away isn't the last word. Here's the hope of the g…

“I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.” Mark 14:27 Thank God this is not the end of the story: “‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee” (14:27-28). The striking of the shepherd will not be the end of the story. Nor will the scattering of the she…

“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation.” Mark 14:38 In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was warning the disciples about the temptation that they were about to face. Notice the “you.” He was talking about their battle. Jesus was not asking them to somehow support Him in His trial. No, He was telling them, “Soon you are going to face a…

Today's message, "Jesus Seen and Proclaimed," takes us through Romans chapter 10, delving into how faith in Christ is built on God's Word, not on personal opinions. Pastor Colin Smith unravels the importance of this truth by examining how angels announced Christ's birth and resurrection, leaving no room for mere personal inference. Embark on this e…

Today, Pastor Colin explores the fascinating world of angels and their significant role in the Christmas story. As Christmas draws near, angels seem to be everywhere, from decorations on trees to central figures in the biblical narrative. Colin takes us to 1 Timothy chapter 3 to delve deeper into the mystery of godliness and the pivotal role angels…

Peter… followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest Mark 14:54 There was still a flicker of hope. One man felt that he wanted to be close to Jesus on this night. You have to love Peter’s devotion. He ran, but he couldn’t stay away. Maybe this man will bring some comfort to Jesus in His suffering. Then someone recognised h…

“You will all fall away.” Mark 14:27 It wasn’t just Judas. Jesus said to the disciples, “You will all fall away.” Feel the weight of that. Peter couldn’t imagine this happening to him: “Even though they all fall away, I will not” (14:29). You can see what he is saying, and you have to admire his courage and determination: “Lord, you can count on me…

In this broadcast, we delve into the profound truth that knowing God isn't about intellectual prowess, but about the revelation of His love and presence in Jesus Christ. Pastor Colin reminds us that even those with the most meagre beginnings can have the greatest opportunity to come to know God, just as children do - with humility and openness. As …

While [Jesus] was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper... Mark 14:3 While Jesus was reclining at the table in this man’s home, a woman expressed her love for Him by pouring a jar of perfume (worth a year’s wages) over His head. Some of the guests thought this was wasteful. They thought that something so valuable could have been put to better …

In today's episode, we're delving into the core of the Christmas story: the miraculous and divine mystery of the incarnation. Pastor Colin explores how the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit were all actively involved in God becoming man in Christ Jesus. As we lead up to Christmas, let's appreciate the wonder of the Word made flesh and dwell amon…

Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away, for it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’” Mark 14:27 We come to holy ground today as we take this first step into the passion of Jesus: Christ suffered at the hands of His friends. Let’s take in the sweep of Mark 14. This chapter begins with a dinner in the home o…

Today we are exploring the profound and hopeful message of the godly life made possible through Jesus Christ. Are you searching for change and longing to become the person God has called you to be? Tune in to discover that the path to godliness isn't found through techniques or programmes, but through Christ Himself living in you. Pastor Colin delv…

He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things… Mark 8:31 We’re following the story of Holy Week. On Palm Sunday, Jesus entered Jerusalem. On Monday, He ran the money changers out of the temple. Tuesday was taken up with questions from Jesus’ opponents, who were trying to trap Him. On Tuesday evening, Jesus taught His disciples …

“With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” Mark 10:27 Today we see one final lesson from the young ruler's life: Real change is impossible with man but not with God. God can change the selfishness that would keep you out of heaven. How does He do that? Being good like God is possible through Christ’s life f…

“Then who can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible.” Mark 10:26-27 This is our third truth from the story: Real change is impossible with man. Pause a moment to take this in. The rich young ruler thinks he can produce the goodness needed for entering heaven. Jesus knows that He can’t. What does this man need to be sa…

As we approach the season of Christmas, today's broadcast delves deeply into the mystery of godliness. What does it mean to live a godly life, and how can we achieve it? In an engaging discussion, Pastor Colin explores key passages from 1 Timothy 3, highlighting the great secret to godliness revealed through Jesus Christ. Join us as we unfold this …

The disciples said to him, “Then who can be saved?” Mark 10:26 Here is the second truth we see in this story: Salvation involves a real change in which a person becomes good like God. One major problem that we face in the church today is that we have separated what God joined together. Salvation is reduced to a formula that is believed without maki…

Today, Colin looks at a topic many can relate to: the struggle of living in the light of the resurrection while being weighed down by fear. If you've ever felt like your faith hasn't yet transformed your life, you won't want to miss what Pastor Colin has to share from Mark's Gospel. Join us as we explore the powerful message of Jesus's resurrection…

“Good Teacher… what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Mark 10:17 The first lesson we learn from the rich young ruler is this: To enter heaven, you must be good like God. When the rich young ruler asks his question, Jesus takes him up on the goodness thing: “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone” (10:18). How do you measure good…

In today's episode, we're diving deep into an essential aspect of Christianity that sets it apart from the postmodern notion of subjective interpretation. Pastor Colin explains that the Christian faith is grounded not on personal interpretations but on God's explanation of His actions as revealed in the Bible. As we explore Mark Chapter 16, we'll d…

As [Jesus] was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him. Mark 10:17 This man who came to Jesus had a great deal going for him. Here are four things: He was successful. He is successful financially (Mk. 10:22). He is also successful professionally—he is a ruler, in a position of influence (Lk. 18:18). And he had achieved all thi…

In today's insightful message, "Jesus Suffered Under the Judgment of God," we explore the profound implications of Christ's crucifixion. Pastor Colin delves into the depths of the gospel, revealing how Jesus' sacrifice means that we don't have to face the judgment we deserve. If you've ever wondered if God's grace offers a "get out of jail free" ca…

They were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. Mark 10:13 You may have been drawn to Jesus, but His disciples got in the way. Something another Christian said or did kept you from getting to Christ and receiving His blessing. Here are three truths to remember when that happens. 1. Jesus removes the barr…

Today, we're delving into the profound significance of Jesus's suffering, as depicted in Mark's Gospel, Chapter 15. Pastor Colin helps us unravel the relevance of these events that occurred 2,000 years ago for our lives today. While at first glance, one might see only the immense suffering of an innocent man, the New Testament provides an explanati…

[Jesus said,] “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” Mark 10:9 Jesus’ high view of marriage was very different from the prevailing ideas of the time, where divorce had become common. Bishop Ryle writes about the “absurd and frivolous causes” for which the Jews allowed divorce, citing rabbinical texts of the day: “If the wif…

Pharisees came up and in order to test him asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” Mark 10:2 The purpose of the Pharisees’ question is to test Jesus. Their questions always have an angle. They ask Jesus about divorce, but Jesus answers with teaching about marriage. Later, when the disciples ask about divorce, He answers them in private…