Open the Bible UK Broadcast

Today we're diving into Mark Chapter 13, exploring the return of Jesus and the signs of times. Ever wonder how to spot a good church? Colin shares insight that among the key characteristics is a pastor who opens up the Bible, showing the teachings of Jesus. In a world clamouring with opinions, discovering what God truly wants to speak into our lives stands paramount. Join us as we examine both the present happenings and future revelations Jesus shared with His disciples.

Today, we're looking at the intriguing interactions between Jesus and the religious leaders in Mark chapter 12. Have you ever wondered what it truly means to be close to the kingdom of God yet not quite in it? Pastor Colin illuminates this profound topic as we explore the concepts of genuine Christian conversion and the marks that define it.

This episode is filled with insights that challenge us to consider our own standing with Christ. We delve into four insights for evangelism and discover what it means to take a stand with Jesus. As always, Colin's message is filled with practical wisdom and biblical truths.

In today's message, we're diving into the Gospel According to Jesus in Mark chapters 11 and 12. We find Jesus at the temple, where instead of a warm welcome, He faces intense questioning. Pastor Colin guides us through how Jesus masterfully handles these tough questions and shares valuable insights on how we can be winsome witnesses for Christ today.

We'll explore various questions Jesus faced about authority, politics, resurrection, and love, learning profound truths about our human nature and gaining evangelistic insights along the way. Whether you're curious about how to tackle tough conversations about faith or eager to be a more effective witness, there's something here for you.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith! In today’s broadcast, we dive into a reflection on the true essence of spiritual life within the Church. Pastor Colin takes us through an exploration of Mark Chapter 11, where Jesus encounters a fruitful fig tree. This illustration extends to a deeper message about the temple and the sought-after fruit of ministry that Jesus desires: people earnestly seeking and finding God.

Journey with us as we uncover how the true vitality of a church is not found in its programmes or appearances but in the genuine hunger and thirst for God. This episode challenges us to reflect on our spiritual walk and the fruit we produce. Join us as Pastor Colin encourages us to cultivate faith and forgiveness, crucial components to living a fruitful life for Christ.

Join us as we delve deep into Mark's Gospel, exploring the profound story of Jesus and the fig tree, symbolising His search for genuine spiritual fruit among His followers. Reflecting on Jesus' cleansing of the temple, Pastor Colin challenges the church to remain a true house of prayer amidst the lure of convenience and profit. Discover how we, as individuals and communities, can bear the spiritual fruit Jesus seeks. Tune in and be inspired to reassess and nurture your faith journey, ensuring it is one of seeking and finding God, not merely flourishing with leaves.

In this episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith, we delve into the intriguing paradox of fear and peace in our spiritual journey. Discover how Jesus both brings and relieves fear, illustrated through powerful stories from Mark chapters 4 and 5. Pastor Colin explains the dual nature of fear – the reverential fear that draws us toward Jesus and the comforting peace that dispels our anxieties. Join us as we explore how fear can lead to wisdom and why it is essential to embrace both the fear and the relief that Jesus offers.

In today's message, we delve into Mark chapter 4, where Jesus and His disciples face a storm. As we explore this passage, Colin highlights the profound fear that comes with recognising the glory of Jesus. Join us as we consider the disciples' astonishment at the calming of the storm and the awe-inspired fear it evoked. Learn how this fear is a pivotal part of growing in wisdom and understanding.

Join us as we delve into the parable of the sower. As we explore Mark chapter four, we learn about the different types of soils representing diverse hearts and how they respond to the word of God. Discover the profound imagery of Jesus’s teachings and the hope of transformation through the divine gardener, who can cultivate even the hardest hearts into fruitful ones. Whether you find yourself hard, shallow, or preoccupied, there is hope in the Gospel.

Today, we're exploring the profound impact of God's word—the living seed that revives souls and transforms lives. Whether you're teaching your children, ministering to a group, or sharing biblical truths with a neighbour, you might sometimes wonder what difference you're making. Remember, life under the blessings of God's rule comes through the ministry and reception of His word. Even when it feels like you're sowing with no visible change, God's word, the powerful seed, is working in ways you may not see immediately. Join us as we delve into Mark Chapter 4 and discover how Jesus assures us of His kingdom's establishment even in a world that rejects Him. Be encouraged and renewed as we uncover the truth that God's word never returns void.

In today's broadcast, we delve into the profound words of Jesus on the cross, "It is finished," exploring the pivotal question: What was finished? Pastor Colin shares that Jesus absorbed God's wrath, enduring the agonies of hell so that we, as believers, are no longer under God's condemnation. We are invited to celebrate this truth at the heart of the gospel through today's message, "The God Who Forgives and Restores," drawn from Micah chapter 7.

In today's episode, we're diving into the profound question of forgiveness as we explore "The God Who Forgives and Restores." Pastor Colin sheds light on the awe-inspiring nature of God's forgiveness, using Micah 7 to illustrate the divine justice and love that met at the cross. This heartfelt message reminds us of the immense cost of forgiveness and leads us to worship.

If you've ever wondered why God's forgiveness should matter and how it should impact your life, this episode is for you. Tune in and let the wonder of being forgiven bring you closer to God.

Today’s message, "The God Who Hides Himself," addresses a profound and sometimes troubling part of Christian life. When God feels distant, it can be disheartening, but the Bible offers comfort and guidance during these times.

Pastor Colin shares the story of Jonah and the disciples to illustrate that both disobedience and obedience can lead to challenging storms. He encourages us to watch, wait, and hope in God even when He seems far away. By exploring Micah chapter 7, Pastor Colin provides practical steps on what to do when God appears hidden, highlighting how God’s hiddenness is never final and His glory will ultimately be revealed.

Are you ever frustrated or searching for a deeper sense of fulfilment in life? Join us on Open The Bible with Pastor Colin Smith as we explore what it truly means to follow Jesus. In today’s episode, Pastor Colin delves into the topic "The God Who Hides Himself," addressing the dark places and challenges that Christians may face. Discover how the Bible speaks to every circumstance, including those times when it feels like God is distant.

Pastor Colin offers a heartfelt and insightful look at Micah Chapter 7, revealing the inner turmoil of the prophet Micah and drawing parallels to the challenges and disconnections faced by Christians today. Through this study, we learn the importance of moving beyond superficial fulfilment and addressing the deeper spiritual needs of our community.

In Part 2 of "The God Who Sends out Subpoenas," Pastor Colin delves into the topic of guilt and how to seek God's forgiveness. If you're feeling the weight of guilt and don't know how to handle it, this episode is a beacon of hope.

We begin with a person wrestling with their conscience, considering dramatic life changes to atone for their guilt. Pastor Colin takes us through Biblical wisdom to show that our salvation and redemption lie not in our deeds but in the mercy and justice offered through Jesus Christ.

In today’s episode, get ready for a dramatic and thought-provoking dive into Micah chapter 6, where we'll unpack an extraordinary courtroom scene where God isn't the judge, but the prosecuting attorney.

Explore the powerful imagery of God holding His people accountable, highlighting both His faithfulness and the shortcomings of His followers. As Pastor Colin walks us through the text, we’ll learn how this biblical narrative reflects our own world, especially focusing on integrity in the business realm.

We'll discover the true invitation to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, as magnificently summarised in Micah 6:8. This episode will help us understand the profound significance of living out these principles in our daily lives.

Today we're continuing our message, "The God Who Will Not Tolerate Rivals," focusing on idolatry in Micah chapter five.

Pastor Colin speaks about the subtle ways idolatry can creep into our lives, reminding us that it’s not always about metal statues but often closer to home. We're exploring how self-help, self-defence, self-deception, and self-worship can become idols, taking the place of God in our lives.

In this broadcast, Pastor Colin asks seven critical questions about idolatry, helping us to understand its forms, why it's so offensive to God, and what we can do about it. He points us towards grace as the antidote to our idolatrous tendencies, urging us to turn to God and remove anything that takes His place in our hearts.

Today's discussion centres on the concept of being "hide and seekers" in the context of spirituality and faith. Colin introduces a thought-provoking idea that while many people consider themselves seekers of God, they frequently spend equal time hiding from Him.

Pastor Colin explains from scripture that those who genuinely seek after God with all their hearts will find Him, as promised in the Bible. But Colin also highlights how easy it is to turn God's good gifts into idols and the importance of maintaining a God-centred life. The episode serves as a call to stop hiding and start seeking God earnestly for a transformative encounter.

Over the last couple of days, we’ve taken a high-altitude journey through the Bible—covering the entire Old Testament and then immersing ourselves in the Gospels and the life of Jesus. In today’s session, Pastor Colin focuses on the rest of the New Testament and highlights five incredible gifts that God gives to every believer: the Holy Spirit, faith, forgiveness, the church, and heaven.

Today we delve into five pivotal events from the life of Jesus as recorded in the Gospels. Last time, we soared through the Old Testament, exploring five key figures in one go. Now, we're going to take a high-altitude journey through the New Testament by focusing on these crucial moments: Jesus’ birth, His temptation, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. Pastor Colin Smith will guide us in understanding the significance of these events and how they shape our faith today. Stay tuned as we explore this fascinating and enlightening message, "Five Events in the Life of Jesus." For more about our series, Fly Through the Bible, or to get a copy of Pastor Colin's new book, visit our website at openthebible.org.uk. I hope you enjoy this insightful discussion!

Welcome to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith! For the next three days, we've got something new and different for you. Today, Colin tackles the entire Old Testament in just one programme by focusing on five key figures: Adam, Abraham, Moses, David, and Ezra. By getting to know these important individuals, you'll gain a comprehensive outline of the Old Testament story.

Colin begins with Adam, exploring the creation story and what it means to be made in the image of God. He moves on to Abraham, highlighting God's promise to bless all families of the earth through him. Next, Pastor Colin delves into Moses' role in leading God's people out of Egypt and receiving the Ten Commandments. David's story follows, illustrating both his triumphs and failures, and concluding with God's promise of a lasting kingdom through his line. Finally, we hear about Ezra, who brought about a great restoration among God's people by returning them to the Word of God.

Today’s broadcast dives into a frequently debated question: 'Would a God of love send people to hell?' Pastor Colin Smith provides a thoughtful response by exploring the true nature of evil and God's power to overcome it.

Join us as we delve into Micah Chapter 4 and examine God’s promise for a world free of evil, war, and suffering. Pastor Colin explains the profound hope found in God’s ultimate plan to create a new heaven and a new earth, and what these promises mean for us today.

Today's episode takes inspiration from the iconic song "Imagine" by John Lennon, touching on the themes of peace, love, and a world free from conflict and greed. While the song's vision is compelling, Pastor Colin addresses why such a dream eludes us and explores the deeper issues within and around us that hinder true peace and harmony.

Colin delves into these thought-provoking questions through the lens of the Bible, specifically focusing on Micah Chapter 4. In this passage, we learn about God's ultimate plan for peace and security through judgment, gathering, ruling, and redeeming His people. This episode promises to be a heartfelt exploration of how biblical teachings intersect with our deepest yearnings for a better world.

Join us on this episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith as we delve into the importance of living a righteous life. We are reminded that effective praying depends on right living, citing scripture from Micah 3. Pastor Colin teaches us that cherishing iniquity in our hearts can prevent our prayers from being heard by God. This episode is a call to self-examination and the pursuit of righteousness, assuring us that our actions are integral to our faith. Don’t miss this enlightening message where we'll discover why God holds leaders accountable and how we can make a difference in our spheres of influence.

Today's message dives into the principle that faithfulness in what God has entrusted to us can lead to even greater trust. This holds true for money, responsibility, influence, ministry, and friendships.

Pastor Colin underscores the importance of recognising the various trusts we hold, from relationships and work to special gifts and ministry. He reminds us that being faithful in these areas can result in more responsibilities from God.

The episode takes us through the book of Micah, chapter 3, focusing on the message "The God Who Holds Leaders Accountable." Here, Pastor Colin elaborates on how every leader, whether in elected positions or appointed roles, holds an accountability before God. Importantly, he also connects effective prayer with righteous living, saying, "Effective praying depends on right living.".

Have you ever wondered what would happen if God spoke directly to us? Pastor Colin dives deep into Micah, Chapter 2, exploring the ramifications of a God who speaks for himself. We talk about how ignoring God's word is the ultimate insult and what the Word of God says about judgment and salvation.

Join us as Pastor Colin discusses the stark contrast between true prophetic messages and those of false prophets, who provide a false sense of comfort to people still living in sin. Plus, discover how Jesus, the Great Shepherd, breaks open the way for us, leading us to paths we couldn't navigate on our own.

In today's episode, we're diving into the pivotal theme of how we can come to know the living God through His own revelation, rather than through our own ideas or speculations. Pastor Colin compellingly illustrates this with today's message titled, "The God Who Speaks for Himself." Through the lens of scripture, specifically Micah Chapter 2, we will explore the distinction between human speculation and divine revelation, and understand why the God of the Bible is worth knowing.

Why is this important? Pastor Colin gently guides us to ponder, "What if the elephant could speak?" He explains how just as an elephant describing itself would eliminate ambiguity, God's revelation of Himself through actions and words transforms our understanding and relationship with Him. We'll also delve into how God's sovereignty means He uses every circumstance in our lives to advance His divine purpose, even the challenging ones.

Today's broadcast dives into the profound topic of the sovereignty of God, especially in times of disaster. Many listeners may resonate with the questions posed and the struggles highlighted.

Pastor Colin offers heartfelt empathy and turns our attention to the Book of Micah, where the prophet speaks to people facing extraordinary calamities. Colin explores three vital actions to take when encountering the darkest days of life, beginning with affirming God's control over all circumstances. This foundational belief provides a bedrock of hope and faith.

Have you ever wondered why disasters befall both the righteous and the wicked? Pastor Colin explores this profound question using the book of Micah, showing us that the Bible indeed suggests that suffering is not selectively doled out.

Today, we delve into the passages of Micah chapter 1, as Pastor Colin explains the challenging idea that God is in control of both the good and the bad happenings in our lives. This thought-provoking message invites us to rethink our understanding of suffering, disasters, and God's sovereignty over these events in a fallen world.

Have you ever wondered how a simple farm boy from an obscure town could speak profound truths to a nation? Join Pastor Colin as he delves into the life of Micah—a prophet who, despite his humble beginnings in Moresheth, was tasked with delivering God's word during the reigns of King Ahaz and Hezekiah.

Through exploring Micah's story, Pastor Colin beautifully illustrates how God's word can bring revival and hope even in the darkest times. Discover how God raised a great son like Hezekiah from a disastrous father like Ahaz, and how He can use ordinary believers to make extraordinary impacts.

In today's sermon, Colin contrasts paganism's misunderstanding of divine displeasure, with the gospel's message of hope and redemption through suffering. We'll delve into the book of Micah, exploring a time of both immense moral decay and significant spiritual revival among God's people. Colin emphasises that true faith recognises that God fulfils His purpose even amid trouble, differentiating biblical Christianity from superstitious practices. Don't miss this enlightening series titled "Close Encounters with the Living God."

Our broadcast today dives into the challenging message of prioritising faith amidst our busy lives, filled with music, food, pets, travel, and sports. While these are good things, Pastor Colin reminds us to take time to look at the Lord Jesus Christ.

Today's discussion starts with a simple question: What does it actually mean to look at Jesus Christ? Colin shares that it involves listening to His words, observing His actions, hearing His promises, heeding His commands, and responding to His invitations. Just like cultivating any relationship, coming to faith is intentional and requires spending time with Jesus, primarily through opening the Bible.

Today, we tackle a fundamental question: Why is unbelief the dominant response to the gospel of Jesus Christ? We'll explore why many people are on the broad road to destruction and so few on the narrow path that leads to life, as Jesus described.

We'll uncover what lies behind unbelief and discover what can lead to faith, focusing on three hurdles: distractions by the wrong considerations, being drawn to wrong priorities, and driven by the wrong desires. Guided by Isaiah 53, we delve into Jesus' early life and the reasons behind people's dismissive attitudes toward Him.

In today's broadcast, we explore a question that many of us have pondered: How can ordinary people like you and me experience peace at all times and in every way?

Pastor Colin delves into the Scripture's teachings on this matter, with insightful references to Paul's prayer in 2 Thessalonians Chapter 3:16-18. He highlights that peace isn't about walking around with smiles all day but finding God's serenity even amidst conflicts and fears.

Don't miss out on this heartfelt episode where Colin emphasises three crucial pillars for establishing peace: that God's presence is always with us, His promises are sure, and His grace is sufficient. Tune in to discover how these truths can bring you comfort and strength, especially when facing life's toughest challenges.

In today's episode, we ask the profound question: Do you have peace with God today? Are you running from Him or feeling afraid? If you find yourself reluctant to pray or despite settling every conflict in your life, you are still missing that ultimate peace, this episode is just for you.

Pastor Colin discusses the essential nature of peace with God and how it's the root from which peace of heart grows. We'll explore 1 Thessalonians chapter 3, verses 16-18, to understand the Bible’s teachings on experiencing God's peace. He explains that peace with God must come first to bring peace in other areas of our lives.

Today’s episode dives into the deep and often unspoken struggles many believers face in their spiritual journeys. Have you ever felt like God has forgotten you or is hiding His face from you? Join us as Pastor Colin explores Psalm 13, offering guidance on how to pray when you are in an agony of soul.

Pastor Colin discuss practical ways to support those in spiritual distress and how the Bible equips us to do so. This episode emphasises the importance of recognising, understanding, and responding to the cries of the soul, helping us find strength and comfort in God's enduring love.

In today's broadcast, we delve into the complexities of enduring long-term trials and the profound impact it has on our souls. Pastor Colin emphasises that the hardest trials aren't necessarily those that hurt the deepest but those that last the longest. Drawing wisdom from Psalm 13, Colin explores how this scripture speaks directly to our struggles, especially those that seem never-ending.

Perhaps you're enduring difficulties in your marriage, facing stress at work, or dealing with long-term physical or mental challenges. The timeless words of Psalm 13 are a prayer for those moments when you feel there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Listen in as we discover Holy Spirit-inspired prayers that offer solace and guidance during these trying times.

In today's episode, we continue our discussion on “What is the Church and Why Does it Matter?” Pastor Colin reminds us that the Church is not a man-made institution but a divine gathering initiated by God and meant to honour Christ.

We explore the powerful concept that the Church, as mentioned by Jesus, refers to the entire body of believers through all ages and each local congregation gathered for worship and service. This insightful message invites us to reflect on our personal relationship with Christ and our role within the Body of Christ.

Whether you're questioning why you should get involved in a local church or seeking to deepen your faith, this message is sure to offer valuable insights.

In today’s broadcast, we tackle the important topic: What is the Church and Why Does It Matter? Pastor Colin explores the significance of the church through the eyes of Jesus, reminding us how Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her. We will dive into Matthew 16 and 18 to uncover what Jesus meant by 'church' and why it holds such immense value.

As we discuss this issue, our hope is to reignite your passion for the church, helping you see it as Jesus does—infinitely precious and dearly loved. If you've ever questioned the place of the church in modern life, this episode offers a compelling biblical vision you won’t want to miss!

Welcome to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. All this month we're showcasing the most requested and downloaded messages from the past year in a series called Listener Favourites.

Today's message is from our Christmas Stories series, where we explore the Christmas narrative through the eyes of key participants like Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men, and the Shepherds. Today's spotlight is on the angel Gabriel, giving us a heavenly perspective of the birth of Jesus.

Imagine the marvel of seeing Christ in His glory and then witnessing Him being born as a baby. Pastor Colin takes us through this astounding story as told by Gabriel. How did Gabriel feel when delivering the most important announcement to a young Mary? What significance does Gabriel see in humanity’s unique nature? Listen in as we delve into the beauty of God's love seen through the experience of an angel.

Today's broadcast explores how our faith is tested when we don't feel the presence of Jesus, just like when the disciples faced a storm on the Sea of Galilee. Join us as Pastor Colin delves into Matthew 14, reminding us that the presence of fear doesn't mean the absence of faith, and that Jesus rules not only the day but also the night and the storms in our lives. Through the story of Peter walking on water, discover the incredible truth that Jesus gives us the strength to fulfil His commands.

Today's broadcast centres on how the disciples of Jesus found themselves suddenly plunged into a challenging situation that tested their faith in new ways. What does it look like to exercise faith in an unexpected storm? Join us as we explore this question.

Pastor Colin helps us understand the storm the disciples faced without Jesus in the boat, drawing parallels to the challenges in our own lives when we may feel alone or unequipped. He reminds us that Jesus is always with us, even when He seems far away, and that no storm is too great for Him to reach us.

Today, Pastor Colin delves into one of life's profound truths: "sorrow is often God's back door to joy". Through a heartfelt message, he challenges the belief that joy is unattainable after experiencing great sorrow. Drawing from the book of Isaiah, he addresses those who feel trapped in their grief and shows them the path to restoring joy through faith in God's word. Don't miss this transformative message as Pastor Colin provides hope and guidance for restoring joy in your life. Join us as we explore Isaiah 54 and 55 and find renewal in God's love and promises.

In today's broadcast, Colin delves into Isaiah 54, highlighting that joy in Jesus Christ can lift us up even when we are in the depths of sorrow. If you’ve faced challenges, be they personal crises, relationship heartaches, or societal disruptions, this message shows how joy rooted in Christ transcends your circumstances. Listen in as Colin explains how joy found in God’s people, God’s love, and God’s city can transform the deepest pains into remarkable joy.

Will you spend the rest of your life blaming others and end up under the wrath of God, or will you embrace what God offers you in Jesus Christ? Today we'll be delving into Deuteronomy 1 to explore this crucial decision.

We all know people who blame others for their problems, and sometimes we do it ourselves. But as Colin mentions, we can move forward through Christ. In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin draws lessons from a younger generation in the Book of Deuteronomy who grew up in the desert because of their parents' lack of faith. Instead of blaming their parents, they are challenged to take ownership of their faith and obedience.

In this episode, Pastor Colin delves into Deuteronomy Chapter One, highlighting six impulses that naturally occur within us all. These include rebellion against God, treating God's grace with contempt, blaming others, resisting truth, refusing to believe, and ultimately, being under God's wrath. The sermon raises an urgent question: How can we enter the promised land if we inherit these traits?

Today we're continuing our series with a message entitled "A New Beginning". We're diving into the Book of Ezra, and Colin will shed light on how God's people, exiled in Babylon, felt a stirring in their hearts to return to Jerusalemand how this relates to us today.

God's people faced immense hardship and displacement, but Ezra chapter 1 reveals a fresh spiritual awakening where people desired to return to worship, rebuild the temple, and experience God's presence anew. This story speaks volumes about rekindling our passion for worship and community.

If you've drifted from worship, consider this an invitation to reconnect with God's people. As we explore the first 11 verses of Ezra chapter one, Pastor Colin highlights the importance of gathering for worship, even in challenging times.

In today's episode, we explore the ebb and flow of spiritual life through the lens of the book of Ezra. Pastor Colin draws a parallel between the tides of the ocean and the spiritual highs and lows that Christians often experience. Just as the tide goes in and out, there are seasons of spiritual vibrancy and times of decline. However, the message of hope is clear: a new beginning is always possible.

Pastor Colin discusses how God's Holy Spirit can stir our hearts, bringing revival and a renewed sense of purpose, even after long periods of spiritual dryness. Using the story of the Israelites' return to Jerusalem under King Cyrus's decree, this broadcast encourages us to seek a fresh infusion of spiritual life, passion, and commitment.

Join us as we delve into Ezra 1:1-11, and be inspired to embrace a new beginning in your walk with God.

Today's topic is one many of us find difficult: waiting. Colin Smith delves into Psalm 130 to explore what it truly means to wait on the Lord, especially during life's darkest moments. In a culture where everything is rushed, this lesson teaches us the importance of patience and trust in God's timing.

Colin discusses how waiting is not about having all the answers, but about making a simple decision and a steady commitment to wait on God, relying on His unfailing love and plentiful redemption. He shares poignant examples of waiting as an expression of love, encouraging us to see our periods of waiting as times to deepen our relationship with God.

In today's episode, "Trusting in the Darkness," Pastor Colin addresses the challenging seasons known as the "dark night of the soul." As Christians, many of us have felt immense inner pain even when our bodies are healthy. This episode highlights how Scripture doesn't encourage us to put on a brave face during these tough times but rather to acknowledge and bring our pain to God.

Pastor Colin draws from Psalms, showing us how believers deeply embraced their struggles and presented them honestly before God. He discusses how Jesus Himself faced dark moments, asking, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?", yet received only silence in return. Pastor Colin provides comfort and encouragement, reminding us that it's perfectly okay to be in a dark place—many faithful Christians have walked that path too.

In today's show, we'll be diving deeper into our series, "Give Yourself a Break – How to Enjoy God's Gift of Rest". It's a fascinating topic that resonates with so many of us seeking balance in our busy lives.

As we explore Matthew Chapter 11, Colin Smith helps us understand the seemingly paradoxical concept of finding rest in taking on the yoke of obedience to Christ. It may sound like more work at first, but Colin explains how being yoked with Jesus actually lightens our burdens and enables us to live a fulfilled and purposeful life.

If you want to follow along, grab your Bible and turn to Matthew 11.

Ever wondered how you can end your life with a sense of fulfilled purpose and accomplishment, entering into God's eternal rest? Join us on "Open the Bible" with Pastor Colin Smith as we explore this question. Discover why only Jesus Christ could declare, "It is finished," and how His completed work on the cross enables us to find peace and joy. In this episode, we'll dive into Matthew 11 and learn how to experience true rest through Christ.

Today’s episode dives into a profound message from Isaiah chapter 57, where we reflect on the notion that "there is no peace for the wicked." Pastor Colin discusses the dire warning that a life lived in opposition to God can never find true rest. Through vivid illustrations and relatable metaphors, we uncover why the wicked can never say they've found fulfilment, joy, or peace. These elements are only available through the grace of Jesus Christ. Join us as we explore this crucial topic and learn about the grace and peace found in faith. Don't forget to visit our website at openthebible.org.uk or find us on your favourite podcast platform by searching for Open the Bible UK. Stay tuned for an enlightening discussion!

In today's message titled "Why the Wicked Never Rest," we delve into the pressing and often unsettling question: "How could a loving God ever send anyone to Hell?" Pastor Colin brings insight from Isaiah 57, highlighting that there is no rest for the wicked both in this present life and in the hereafter. We explore what it means to be "wicked" according to the Bible and why this category of people can never find peace. Join us as we uncover the contrast between the wicked and the righteous, and discover the hope and rest offered through Jesus Christ.

Pastor Colin explores the importance of rest in our lives, drawing wisdom from Genesis. We often find ourselves overwhelmed, trying to fit in shopping, bill payments, house cleaning, and office work within our packed schedules. But God’s example in creation teaches us to balance work and rest, highlighting the need to appreciate our accomplishments rather than stress over unfinished tasks.

Today’s message, "The Climax of Living", provides practical guidance on how to plan your week, dividing your work into manageable portions and cherishing rest as a God-given gift. Learn how to make your day of rest special and distinct from other days by focusing on its inherent blessings.

Pastor Colin reminds us that our struggle with an unending workload is a post-fall condition, emphasising the importance of transitioning from being overwhelmed by work to being in control of it. Genesis 2:3 reveals how God sanctified the seventh day, showing us a pattern to incorporate into our lives.

In this episode, Pastor Colin delves into the nature of true rest. In this broadcast, you will explore what it means to find rest not just for your body but for your soul, as reflected in biblical teachings.

Ever felt more exhausted after watching TV for hours? Struggled to find peace even on a beautiful beach? You’re not alone. Colin explores how rest goes beyond mere inactivity—it’s about peace of mind and soul. By looking into the book of Genesis, he explains how God rested after creation and invites us to understand profound biblical rest.

Jesus offers rest for your soul, a rest that starts in your relationship with God and brings peace to your heart and mind. Learn how fulfilling God’s purpose for your life can lead to true, refreshing rest.

If you’re ready to dive deeper into understanding and enjoying God’s gift of rest, join us in Genesis Chapter 2 for "The Climax of Living". Pastor Colin unpacks God’s model of rest and how to apply it to your life.