S1 Ep165: Tuesday Teaching Tips, Episode 165: "Why You Need Keynote Stories"
I used a ‘keynote’ illustration in a recent sermon (https://www.malcolmcox.org/where-does-your-gate-lead-malcolm-cox-thames-valley-churches-of-christ/) . It was about my encounter with an epileptic. The reaction I experienced prompted last week’s teaching tip. Today I’d like to talk about the significance of having a body of ‘keynote’ stories which you have ready at hand for the right occasion....
15m Jul 16, 2019
15m
S1: “What Happens When You Go With God”, Acts 14.20-28
“What Happens When You Go With God”, Acts 14.20-28 Introduction, v20 Themes • Numbers converted, word spread • Making disciples everywhere • Opposition / setbacks • “Firsts’ all over the place! • Overall feeling: Undiminished enthusiasm for the things of God • Resulting in…. 1. Bear God’s Fruit • By bringing God’s Word to all kinds of people A. Converts - variety • Flexibility of approach: Jews...
31m Jul 15, 2019
31m
S1: Malcolm's Major Moments, 13th July 2019
Of barking dogs and pneumatic drills - disturbing the comfortable and comforting the disturbed. Information about this week's posts, experiences and personal reflections on what God has been bringing to my attention. God bless, Malcolm
12m Jul 13, 2019
12m
S1: "By The Spirit", Class 1, "Praying in the Spirit - Part 1", Malcolm Cox
“BY THE SPIRIT” Praying in the Spirit - Part 1 John 14:16–17; Ephesians 1:13–14; Ephesians 2:22; Romans 8:15–27 1. “We” - we cry  Question: “How does the “we cry” help your life of prayer?” 2. “Cry” ‘kratzo’ - see all NT references below: Matt 14.30; 9:27; Mk 6:49; John 19:12; Luke 19:40 Creation groans - v22 We groan  - v23 Spirit groans - vv26-27 Question: “What life situations have caused yo...
28m Jul 13, 2019
28m
S1 Ep91: The Sunday Sample: Episode 91. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 9 - Kissing. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the Ninth in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of kissing.  In many cultures kissing on the cheek once, twice or even three times is a culturally normative method of greeting.  It’s not how I grew up, but even i...
5m Jul 12, 2019
5m
S1 Ep96: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 96. "Exercise and Diet"
We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham B...
21m Jul 11, 2019
21m
S1 Ep164: Tuesday Teaching Tips, Episode 164: "What to do when illustrations aren't received as expected"
Illustrations are an essential part of effective preaching and teaching. Jesus used them all the time. However, sometimes they aren’t received in the way we expect. What do we do in those circumstances? This happened to me recently. I was preaching for the Thames Valley churches of Christ (http://www.tvcoc.org/) and using one of my “keynote” illustrations (more on the significance of “keynote” ...
11m Jul 09, 2019
11m
S1: "Jesus the Life-Whisperer", Wellington Service 2019, Thames Valley churches of Christ
We are designed for an adventurous life. Why settle for a rocking horse when a real one is available? We take a look at why going through life with Jesus is better than doing it alone. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or sugges...
14m Jul 07, 2019
14m
S1: "Malcolm's Major Moments", Week of 6th July 2019 "A Sabbath Day On Pulpit Hill"
Taking time to pray and plan I've made it my habit to set aside extra time on the first Monday of each month to pray and plan. I call it a "Sabbath Day" (inspired by the writings of Gordon McDonald (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gordon-MacDonald/e/B001IR1KBM?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1562310199&sr=8-1) ).  I have some regular spots like Dunstable Downs. But every now and again I like to go somewhere...
12m Jul 06, 2019
12m
S1 Ep90: The Sunday Sample: Episode 90. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 8 - Sitting. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the Eighth in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of  sitting. We take sitting for granted, of course. But should we consider that there may be some aspects of our Christian worship that benefit most specifically ...
4m Jul 05, 2019
4m
S1 Ep95: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 95. "With A Little Help From My Friends"
We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham B...
15m Jul 04, 2019
15m
S1 Ep163: Tuesday Teaching Tips, Episode 163: "How to Preach a Visionary Lesson"
It should be taken for granted that God is visionary, and speaking about him should inspire vision. Before saying anything else - we need to have this in our own hearts! That’s the reason we have times of quiet with God - even on a Sunday morning! It is possible to speak on love, prayer and even the cross without really talking about God. One of the most frequent pieces of advice I give young s...
13m Jul 02, 2019
13m
S1: "Where does your gate lead?", Malcolm Cox. Sermon for the Thames Valley churches of Christ
Looking at two ‘gates’ today and what they mean for us and the world….  1. Gate of Confusion, Gen 11.1-9     “Now the whole world had one language and a common speech. As people moved eastward, they found a plain in Shinar and settled there. They said to each other, “Come, let’s make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. Then they said, “Come, l...
32m Jul 01, 2019
32m
S1: "Malcolm's Major Moments": Week ending 28th June 2019
This last Wednesday was Penny's birthday. We both had a day off and went out for a nice long stroll at the Dunstable Downs (plus cake!). We parked and began our walk near something called the "Tree Cathedral (https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/whipsnade-tree-cathedral-awarded-grade-ii-listing) ".  Here is the description from the National trust website: "Whipsnade Tree Cathedral was the ...
9m Jun 29, 2019
9m
S1 Ep89: The Sunday Sample: Episode 89. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 7 - Prostration. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the Seventh in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of prostration.  We might have reached the most challenging of all postures! As uncomfortable as I feel about raising hands, the idea of prostration is on a whole...
4m Jun 28, 2019
4m
S1 Ep94: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 94. "Sharing the Load"
We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham B...
15m Jun 27, 2019
15m
S1 Ep162: Tuesday Teaching Tips, Episode 162: "Why You Need a Centralising Theme"
Recently I heard two lessons which contained lots of good truth, but lacked clarity. My own sermons have often been guilty of the same flaw. Mark Kermode mentioned a film that had lots of good ideas. He admired those ideas but they didn't form a coherent whole. Therefore the film lacked focus - it was a confusing. Rather like a film or TV show which has so many characters you struggle to rememb...
11m Jun 25, 2019
11m
S1 Ep88: The Sunday Sample: Episode 88. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 6 - Bowing. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the Sixth in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of Bowing.  Yes, bowing. I know, and seems a bit strange. Why do we bow? As an expression of honour and reverence. Psalm 94:6-7 reminds us of the value of bowing as...
4m Jun 21, 2019
4m
S1 Ep93: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 93. "Why Memory Lane Matters"
Attending two funerals in Kent gave me the opportunity to take a stroll down Ram Lane - a spot with special memories for me. But it served a larger purpose than simply a reminder of events linked with that lane.  Walking down that lane helped me reflect on many of the ways God has been with me over several decades of journeying to Him and with Him. Take a walk with me to consider the significan...
15m Jun 20, 2019
15m
S1 Ep161: Tuesday Teaching Tips, Episode 161: "The Sermon as Participation", Malcolm Cox
Public speaking is a two-way experience. Even though it is often one person doing all or most of the speaking, it is better to conceptualise the event as a conversation. The people to whom you are speaking are not meant to be passive. They are meant to be participating. Some greater clarity was brought to my thinking on this by reading the book “participating in worship” by Craig Douglas Erikss...
10m Jun 18, 2019
10m
S1: "Adoption by our Abba". Fathers' Day 2019, Malcolm Cox, Watford church of Christ
“Adoption by our Abba”, Father’s Day 2019 “Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behaviour from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love.” (Ephesians 5:1–2 MESSAGE) Questions:  “Who were/are the important father figures in your life?” “What did you learn from them?” 1. God our Heavenly Father Adopted Us “Pr...
26m Jun 17, 2019
26m
S1 Ep87: The Sunday Sample: Episode 87. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 5 - Kneeling. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the Fifth in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of kneeling.  What is the value of collective kneeling in corporate worship? First of all let’s have a look at Scripture: Solomon’s prayer of dedication for the tem...
5m Jun 14, 2019
5m
S1 Ep92: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 92. "How to be enabled by God"
Today we explore the issue of how God enables us. How does he enable us to be all we can be for him? In what ways can we cooperate with him to enable him to bring us to maximum Christlikeness? What is the place for prayer in this challenge?  We look at insights from Acts 14 and Acts 4.  “So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message ...
15m Jun 13, 2019
15m
S1: “Should I Stay or Should I Go?”, Acts 14.1-7, Thames Valley churches of Christ, Malcolm Cox
“Should I Stay or Should I Go?”, Acts 14.1-7 Introduction, v1a • Modern Konya, 90 miles east of Antioch.   • Abundant water, a genial climate, rich vegetation, and great prosperity. • “Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead.” (Acts 14:19 NIV11) • “They preached the gospel in that city and won a...
28m Jun 12, 2019
28m
S1: “High Drama in Lystra”, Acts 14.8-20, Watford church of Christ, Malcolm Cox
“High Drama in Lystra”, Acts 14.8-20 “In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way from birth and had never walked. He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed and called out, “Stand up on your feet!” At that, the man jumped up and began to walk.When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian langua...
29m Jun 12, 2019
29m
S1 Ep160: Tuesday Teaching Tips 160, "Brilliant Barnabas - Colossians 4"
Barnabas is brilliant. But what is it that makes him so “effective” as a speaker (Acts 14:1)?  We don’t know much about his technique, but we know a lot about his character and his spirituality. In this series we will investigate brilliant Barnabas in the book of Acts and beyond. In doing so I hope we will all gain insights which will help us to be as effective as him. We move on today to Colos...
6m Jun 11, 2019
6m
S1: Tuesday Teaching Tips: Bonus Episode, "Why did God ask Moses to make a bronze snake in Numbers 21:8?"
My old friend Johnson sent me this question all the way from India (I have rephrased it slightly). "Why did God ask Moses to make a bronze snake in Numbers 21:8? In Exodus 20 he gave ten commandments and Exodus 34:17 warned them against making idols. Was God asking Moses to make an idol? Later we see Israel worshiping the bronze snake. King Hezekiah only got round to destroying it in 2 Kings 18...
12m Jun 08, 2019
12m
S1 Ep86: The Sunday Sample: Episode 86. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 4 - Raising Eyes. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the Fourth in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of raising our eyes.
5m Jun 07, 2019
5m
S1 Ep91: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 91. "How to set limits like Jesus"
We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker. Today we explore the issue of setting Did Jesus set limits? What is the place for prayer in this challenge?
19m Jun 06, 2019
19m
S1 Ep159: Tuesday Teaching Tips 159, "Brilliant Barnabas - Galatians 2"
Barnabas is brilliant. But what is it that makes him so “effective” as a speaker (Acts 14:1)? We don’t know much about his technique, but we know a lot about his character and his spirituality. In this series we will investigate brilliant Barnabas in the book of Acts and beyond. In doing so I hope we will all gain insights which will help us to be as effective as him. We move on today to Galat...
6m Jun 04, 2019
6m
S1: "Should I Stay, Or Should I Go?" Acts 14.1-7, Malcolm Cox
1. Enabled by God, vv1b-3 A. Belief B. Opposition C. Perseverance  God enabling you - ‘didomi’ How? Discussion…… Prayer - “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” (Acts 4:29 NIV11) Suppression of ego: “for the Lord”, v3 Focussed on preaching a person, not a religion: “for the Lord” Preaching a positive message - “his grace”, not negati...
30m Jun 03, 2019
30m
S1: "Three Big Questions", Class 3: “Why would a good God allow suffering?”, Malcolm Cox
Three Big Questions Class 3: “Why would a good God allow suffering?” Introduction “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect….” (1 Peter 3:15–16 NIV11) Before you begin Note: this is a sensitive and difficult topic - avoid simplistic answers Ask what it is about this topic that interest th...
27m Jun 01, 2019
27m
S1 Ep85: The Sunday Sample: Episode 85. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 3 - Praying with uplifted hands. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the third in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of praying with uplifted hands. I’ll admit it, this one makes me uncomfortable. I occasionally lift my hands during private prayer-when I’m confident no one else ...
5m May 31, 2019
5m
S1 Ep90: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 90. "How to handle praise and criticism"
How do we handle the twin pressures of praise and criticism? What is the healthy spiritual response? What inspiration can we derive from Jesus and the scriptures? We delve into my teenage memories and an old appraisal…... “Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.” (John 6:15 NIV11) More Scriptures referred to in this episo...
36m May 30, 2019
36m
S1 Ep158: Tuesday Teaching Tips 158, "Brilliant Barnabas - 1 Corinthians 9.6"
Barnabas is brilliant. But what is it that makes him so “effective” as a speaker (Acts 14:1)? We don’t know much about his technique, but we know a lot about his character and his spirituality. In this series we will investigate brilliant Barnabas in the book of Acts and beyond. In doing so I hope we will all gain insights which will help us to be as effective as him. We move on today to 1 Cor...
5m May 28, 2019
5m
S1: "Three Big Questions", Class Two: “Did Jesus Rise?”, Malcolm Cox
Three Big Questions Class Two: “Did Jesus Rise?” “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” (1 Peter 3:15–16) Before you begin Ask what they think of the...
30m May 25, 2019
30m
S1 Ep84: The Sunday Sample: Episode 84. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 2 - standing. Malcolm Cox
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the second in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of standing. We are very well used to standing in church services. But how we thought about its purpose? Do we know why we stand? There are many postures for pr...
6m May 24, 2019
6m
S1: "Three big questions". Compelling Evidence - "What is the single most significant piece of evidence?"
This Friday’s question is: “Did Jesus really rise from the dead?” We’ll tackle common objections to the resurrection. However, my question today is this: "What is the single most significant piece of evidence as far as you are concerned?" Send me your thoughts and come, if you can, to Bracknell Leisure Centre this Friday 25th May, 8pm. Let’s learn together. Please add your comments on this w...
1m May 24, 2019
1m
S1 Ep89: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 89. "Praying for what you don't really want"
We continue a new series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker. Today’s episode is not based on material in the book, but inspired by its theme. Let's explore the issue of praying for things we don’t really want. What is the place for prayer in this challenge? Jesus spent time praying for God’s will to be done in ...
15m May 23, 2019
15m
S1: "Three big questions". Objections to the resurrection 4 - "Jesus' body was taken away"
This Friday’s question is: “Did Jesus really rise from the dead?” We’ll tackle common objections to the resurrection including today’s, which is: "Jesus' body was taken away” How would you answer this objection? Send me your thoughts and come, if you can, to Bracknell Leisure Centre this Friday 25th May, 8pm. Let’s learn together. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best...
1m May 23, 2019
1m
S1: "Three big questions". Objections to the resurrection 3 - "Jesus never really died"
This Friday’s question is: “Did Jesus really rise from the dead?” We’ll tackle common objections to the resurrection including today’s, which is: "Jesus never really died” How would you answer this objection? Send me your thoughts and come, if you can, to Bracknell Leisure Centre this Friday 25th May, 8pm. Let’s learn together. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best wh...
1m May 22, 2019
1m
S1 Ep157: Tuesday Teaching Tips 157, "Brilliant Barnabas - Acts 15"
Barnabas is brilliant. But what is it that makes him so “effective” as a speaker (Acts 14:1)? We don’t know much about his technique, but we know a lot about his character and his spirituality. In this series we will investigate brilliant Barnabas in the book of Acts and beyond. In doing so I hope we will all gain insights which will help us to be as effective as him. We move on today to Acts ...
8m May 21, 2019
8m
S1: "Three big questions". Objections to the resurrection 2 - "The disciples hallucinated a risen Jesus"
This Friday’s question is: “Did Jesus really rise from the dead?” We’ll tackle common objections to the resurrection including today’s, which is: "The disciples hallucinated a risen Jesus” How would you answer this objection? Send me your thoughts and come, if you can, to Bracknell Leisure Centre this Friday 25th May, 8pm. Let’s learn together. Please add your comments on this week’s topic....
1m May 21, 2019
1m
S1: "Three big questions". Objections to the resurrection 1 - "The disciples went to the wrong tomb"
This Friday’s question is: “Did Jesus really rise from the dead?” We’ll tackle common objections to the resurrection including today’s, which is: "The disciples went to the wrong tomb” How would you answer this objection? Send me your thoughts and come, if you can, to Bracknell Leisure Centre this Friday 25th May, 8pm. Let’s learn together. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We ...
1m May 20, 2019
1m
S1: "Allotment Service", May 2019, Watford church of Christ
Excerpts from our "Allotment Service". Songs, a lesson, worms, wood lice, planting, Isaiah, the FA Cup Final, prayer, communion and more.....! Thank you for listening to this podcast. You can find more episodes in our feed. Our web site is http://www.watfordchurchofchrist.org. Join us in our adventure: 10.30 AM on most Sundays at Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, ...
29m May 20, 2019
29m
S1: Tuesday Teaching Tips: Bonus Episode, "Were Adam and Eve created at the same time?"
"In Genesis 1.27 it says God created mankind male and female and he created them, which appears to suggest they were created at the same time. Some online sites suggests that Adam had a first wife Lilith. Then in Genesis 2 it explains that God created Eve from Adam as his helper." Judaism Lilith is a figure in Jewish mythology, developed earliest in the Babylonian Talmud (3rd to 5th century A...
12m May 18, 2019
12m
S1 Ep83: The Sunday Sample: Episode 83. "Posture in Corporate Worship", Part 1 - physical movement
What is the usefulness and relevance of movement and posture in corporate worship? This is the first in a series on this topic inspired by a chapter in “Participating in Worship” by Craig Douglas Erickson. Today we look at the issue of physical movement. In many church traditions movement can involve a procession in and out of the main building, movement to the communion rail or to a baptisma...
5m May 17, 2019
5m
S1 Ep88: Quiet Time Coaching: Episode 88. "Time: energy, faith and the character of Christ"
We continue a new series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker. Today’s episode is not based on material in the book, but inspired by its theme. Let's explore the issue of time and the need for energy, faith and the character of Christ in making the best use of the time God has given us. What is the place for praye...
23m May 16, 2019
23m
S1: Tuesday Teaching Tips: Bonus Episode, "Question about John 10.8"
My old friend Johnson sent me this question all the way from India. In the passage below, who is Jesus referring to when he mentions “thieves and robbers”?   Therefore Jesus said again, “All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them.” (John 10:7–9 NIV11) Who did he have in mind? Three possibilities come to mind. 1. Unspiritual shepherds There m...
8m May 15, 2019
8m
S1 Ep156: Tuesday Teaching Tips 156, "Brilliant Barnabas - Acts 14"
Barnabas is brilliant. But what is it that makes him so “effective” as a speaker (Acts 14:1)? We don’t know much about his technique, but we know a lot about his character and his spirituality. In this series we will investigate brilliant Barnabas in the book of Acts and beyond. In doing so I hope we will all gain insights which will help us to be as effective as him. We move on today to Acts ...
8m May 14, 2019
8m