“This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.… Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose even the whole world would not have room for the books.”
To Ponder
When we talk about the Bible being reliable, it’s not about every tiny detail lining up perfectly—it’s about God’s big-picture story. Take John’s Gospel—he’s basically saying, 'I saw it with my own eyes!' but also makes clear the Spirit guided what got written down (John 20:30-31). What we have isn’t random. Every story, every letter points us straight to Jesus’ work of salvation: the cross, the empty tomb, the hope we can’t find anywhere else.
Think about it like this—if I tried to write down everything Jesus did, the world couldn’t hold the books! (That’s actually in John 21:25!). But what we do have? It’s like God handpicked exactly what we need to know him and be changed by him. From Adam to Revelation, it’s about God making broken things whole through Christ.
And here’s the thing his Word is still works. Lives are still transformed by its message. When doubts creep in, we remember—the same God who kept His promises to Israel keeps his Word alive today. We don’t trust the Bible because it’s a magic answer book, but because it keeps pointing us back to the one who said, 'I am the Way' (John 14:6). It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about knowing the answer."
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of the bible—tested, true, and sufficient. Strengthen my trust in your Word, knowing it leads me to Christ, my rock and redeemer. Amen.
Today's devotion written by Nich Kitchen, LifeWay, Epping
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.”
To Ponder
Sometimes people wonder if the Bible can really be trusted because they hear about supposed contradictions or little differences in the ancient manuscripts. They point to these as proof that the Bible isn’t true. But the Bible’s reliability doesn’t come from humans being perfect—it comes from the one who inspired it. Jesus, the eternal Word, confirms its truth by fulfilling its promises and living out its message.
When doubts about the Bible’s accuracy come up, instead of getting caught up in arguments, we focus on the heart of the Bible: Jesus Christ. His resurrection is the ultimate confirmation that God’s Word is trustworthy (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). The same voice that created the universe still speaks life through His Word today. This message isn’t just about proving facts; it’s inviting us into a relationship with the triune God.
Yes, scholars acknowledge there are variations in ancient manuscripts, but over 99% are minor and don’t change what we believe at the core. We have to remember why the Bible exists—to clearly point us to Jesus, who is the answer to every question and doubt. When we talk with people who struggle to trust the Bible, we can follow Jesus’ example: ask gentle questions and share the good news. Just like the Word that called Lazarus out of the tomb, God’s Word still brings hearts to life today—and no human mistake can ever silence that voice.
Prayer:
Lord, give me courage and grace to speak your truth with gentleness. Strengthen my confidence in Jesus, the living Word, and let my words reflect his love and light. Amen.
Today's devotion written by Nich Kitchen, LifeWay Epping
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and
broad the road that leads to destruction, and many enter
through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that
leads to Life, and only a few find it.
To Ponder
I am sure the deniers would somehow use this to say, “See,
Christianity is narrow!!” I also still have vivid memories of
Pastors in their black robes preaching hell and damnation from
the pulpit using this verse and me rushing to my grandfather
for his take on things. I guess they were just stories, but they
made those images less frightening.
God made a new spiritual covenant in the Old Testament that
was fulfilled with Jesus’ death and resurrection; it promises
forgiveness of sins, a new heart, and a profound knowledge
of God written on people’s hearts. This would replace the old
Covenant with its emphasis on law-keeping and animal sacrifices.
This covenant gives a grace-based relationship with God and
transforms people from within.
Our text doesn’t say we have to follow the narrow road, just
sets out the pros and cons.
God has also given us the gift of free will; each day we are
presented with choices in just about every aspect of our lives,
and some are tempting, but in our hearts, we know God’s will
and need to choose that narrow path. Its not always easy, can
lead to jibes and ridicule, but its end is worth every sharp stone
for the life of peace and joy that the Jesus way gives.
Once you are on a roll along that broad, road it becomes addictive;
you lose all perspective of right and wrong, just looking for that
next high. It gets you nowhere except further from God. I am so
grateful to God for sending someone to lead me away from that
road onto the one of peace and a relationship with God that
brings me great comfort and really doesn’t feel narrow at all.
Prayer
God, giver of grace and salvation, thank you for the gift of free will.
I pray that I value this wisely and, in your service, that I might be
your servant to help bring those who do not yet know you to have
faith and trust, and to know the joy of a relationship with you. Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay Newcastle.
There is no difference between Jew and Gentile –
The same Lord is Lord of all, and richly blesses all who call
on him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord
will be saved.
To Ponder
Our theme for this week is Christianity too narrow and the verses
Are to address what God has done for all people.
Christianity is not exclusive, everyone no matter what creed or
nationality is invited to become involved; God’s one desire is that
all people come to know him and receive his saving grace; it sounds
pretty simple and easy until we actually try to give this message
to family, friends, neighbours and others who are cynical
unbelievers.
When Paul was writing there was a very strong separation between
Jews and Gentiles but the text teaches us that regardless of race or
background God’s generous offer of salvation is extended to every
one, we are all richly blessed and saved when we call on the name
of the Lord. This is a universal promise first made in Joel 2:32, and
we know God is a faithful promise keeper.
When we call on the name of the Lord it should not be a superficial
act; in faith, we need to be humble and sincere as we call on him.
We need to make sure we are not just making empty gestures; true
Faith results in action and discipleship. It means accepting his work,
following his Spirit and ling under his lordship.
Prayer
Loving and patient God, I need to be reminded so often of things such
as you want all people to know you and your saving grace, we are all
equal in your eyes. In response to my faith and the peace and joy I
have in you, I trust in your promises and ask for your Spirit’s guidance
showing me where and when I am needed to help. Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay, Newcastle
Turn to me and be saved,
all you ends of the earth
For I am God, and there is no other.
To Ponder
What an invitation! This one God wants everyone to turn to him
and be saved, not just you and me but everyone from every tribe
and nation, right to ‘the ends of the earth!’
This invitation is made because God is the true and living God,
the only one who can provide salvation, a contrast to the other
nations and people worshiping false gods and idols.
The word ‘turn’ indicates a change in direction, looking
elsewhere, taking focus off ourselves and the things we put our trust
in, and completely focusing on God; trusting in him; depending on him to
rescue us, just as a drowning man looks to someone on shore for
rescue.
These words were written around 700bc but we are in just as
much of need of them today if we want to enjoy the true peace
and joy that comes from God alone.
We need to trust God because we need salvation from sin and
experience God’s grace.
Prayer
Lord God, from before time began, you were the one true God,
have remained so, and will be forever; I thank you for those people
you placed in my life to pass your story to me. Forgive me when
the pressures of daily living take my focus from you and I forfeit
the peace and joy loving and trusting you gives me. You want all
people and nations to know you are the one true God who alone
can give salvation. Lord, please show me how you need me to help
in this mission, strengthen my trust to follow your call. Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay Newcastle
This is good and pleases God our Saviour who wants all men
to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth.
To Ponder
Do you recall the time when prayer was top of the agenda for all
meetings? I am not sure what reasons were given to phase it out.
1Timothy 2 begins with the need for prayer for rulers, kings and
those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all
goodness and holiness.
It’s God’s will, his desire, and nature rather than decree that we live
like this, and as the text reads, it is good and pleases God.
As we pray, our thoughts should be toward God and his great love and
desire for salvation for all people; sometimes it is hard to pray for those
who are hostile to the gospel, but judging who is undeserving of prayer
is not in our job description.
So many people know only a little truth about God and absorb bits and
pieces from many sources; our prayers for them need to be for someone
to come, soften their hearts, show, and teach them the truth.
God wants all men to be saved, so we pray for our pastors and teachers,
those who choose to be missionaries, and those who take the gospel into
places where even owning a Bible can mean a death sentence.
We cannot leave teaching God’s saving grace and love to someone else;
our prayers should be that we too are alert to opportunities to tell how
God has been an influence for good in our lives.
We need to remember to pray for all people: family, co-workers, neighbors,
our enemies, and those we don’t like very much.
Prayer
Lord God, you desire that all people come to know you, and that all
people receive salvation. Forgive me for the times you have presented me
with an opportunity and I have not acted on it. Give me courage when I fear
a hostile reaction. Strengthen my trust in you, knowing you won’t leave me
hanging out on a limb. Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay, Newcastle
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under
Heaven given to men by which we must be saved’
To Ponder
Have you ever noticed that at times when everything is moving
smoothly something crops up and puts a spanner in the works?
This is what was happening in Acts: many new believers daily and
sharing what they had, but the priests and Sadducees were disturbed
by Peter and John’s teachings, so they jumped at the chance to arrest
them after they healed a lame man. When asked by what power
they were able to do this, Peter said, “In the name of Jesus Christ” and
then the verse we read today.
We could try good works or other self-efforts, but the truth is only
Faith in Jesus and his unique role is the exclusive source of salvation.
Jesus’ death and resurrection have secured us freedom from our sins and
the chance to live a peaceful life. We don’t only know this within our-
selves, but our experiences show God at work in and around us.
Our experiences should inspire us to share the Good News of the gospel
whenever possible so everyone has the chance to live in this new freedom.
The text doesn’t say ‘faithful believers’ but “name under heaven given to
men.’ This too will meet with opposition because many will see it as
exclusive; we need to persevere because God wants everyone to have
the joy of his salvation.
Prayer
God of creation and salvation, you wish for everyone to come to know you
and the joy of a relationship with you; give me the strength and trust to
take your word to those who doubt or do not know you yet. You have so
richly blessed me; help me tell others about you. May your Holy Spirit give
me the manner and words when mockers try to dissuade me.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay Newcastle
For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world,
but to save the world through him.
To Ponder
At Sunday School we were taught, “Jesus loves me, this I know because
The Bible tells me so.” As we got older, John 3:16 was given as an example
of this love. I thought about my family and how they loved me: Mum
and Dad, my paternal grandfather, and Auntie Vee topped the list, but
would they die for me? They might stand between me and danger, but
to die for me was a love so great it was beyond my comprehension, and
still is. That’s how great God’s love is for me and all His people.
Jesus was born into a world that had lost its way and connection to God,
But God still loved his people; Jesus wasn’t born to condemn the world for
its wicked sinfulness but God wanted all people to be saved. God was offering
a way out. In Greek cosmos is used, emphasizing the range and scope of his
mission, to save all people, not just a few. also, sozo, translated as saved,
includes rescue, healing, and making people whole.
Jesus’ life, suffering, and death would show how every day we see life as a
gift, and live a new way of life, reflecting God’s grace, love, and forgiveness
to everyone especially to those who are yet to receive this.
Jesus wants us to be part of this, to be reminded of the Great Commission by
Reading Matthew 28:16-20
Prayer
Forgiving Father God, I give you thanks that, through Jesus’ death, I am not
condemned for my sins and have the chance to show my thanks by showing
and speaking of the gift of life so more people may come to know you and,
through your grace, be saved. In Jesus name Amen
Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson , LifeWay, Newcastle
Jesus answered, “ I am the way and the truth and the life, No one comes
to the Father except through me.”
To Ponder
Many years ago, when I was preparing to leave home to start my nursing training
at a large city hospital, I was given much advice about living in the ‘Big Smoke’ but
no thought that I might meet people who might not believe in God. Then I met my
Roommate. She made her views very clear as I unpacked. I had never heard so many
derogatory remarks to which I could find no answer. I do, however, remember one
“You bunch of wowsers think this God just cares for you lot!”
Today’s text proves just how wrong she was. God is addressing all people, and it
suggests that His action was to provide Jesus as a means for all humanity to access
Him, not a select few. God’s love is for all people.
God desires that all people know Him; His love is generous and inclusive for everyone.
His work through Jesus provides an opportunity for reconciliation and spiritual life to
all people. We begin to understand how God’s all-encompassing grace and mercy are
available to all people through the gift of His Son.
There is a suggestion that belief is required, but through Jesus’ work, even those who
may not understand or explicitly recognize Jesus can benefit because ultimately the
provision is God's.
We need to show God’s generous provision to us by faithfully sharing his word with
those around us, patiently answering questions and not making judgments so that
they come to faith and enjoy the fullness of God’s love and grace.
Prayer
Loving gracious God, I know there have been times when I have missed or not
recognized you prompting me to tell someone that you love them and desire to have
a relationship with them. May my words and actions cause someone to want to learn
about you and your love for all people. Amen
Today's Devotion written by Maureen MacPherson, LifeWay, Newcastle.