WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:03.919 Well, good evening and let's pray together. 00:00:07.500 --> 00:00:09.939 Father God, we thank you so much for this time. 00:00:11.080 --> 00:00:17.160 We thank you so much for our chance to join our hearts together in singing your praise. 00:00:18.640 --> 00:00:25.420 Father, I thank you for this time now to just reflect on your goodness and your faithfulness and your grace. 00:00:25.420 --> 00:00:31.360 To me and to all of us over these years we've got to spend together. 00:00:31.860 --> 00:00:33.620 So, Lord, may this be helpful. 00:00:34.600 --> 00:00:40.640 May it be honest and may it be truly glorifying to you and helpful to each of us. 00:00:41.439 --> 00:00:41.760 Amen. 00:00:43.500 --> 00:00:51.820 Well, it hasn't gone at all as expected or if we're honest, as anybody would have wanted. 00:00:51.820 --> 00:00:55.719 Seven years is a long time in a church. 00:00:56.359 --> 00:01:01.600 It all started with such vigor, such passion and such godly ambition. 00:01:02.520 --> 00:01:07.200 But looking now after seven years, it's turned into a nightmare. 00:01:08.680 --> 00:01:14.819 Started as a dream and has become a waking nightmare. 00:01:14.819 --> 00:01:18.699 The church has descended into factionalism. 00:01:18.879 --> 00:01:20.659 There is pride everywhere. 00:01:21.259 --> 00:01:23.500 Selfishness has infected everyone. 00:01:23.759 --> 00:01:25.659 Legalism is the order of the day. 00:01:26.199 --> 00:01:29.159 Immorality left, right and centre. 00:01:29.339 --> 00:01:33.099 Seven years is a long time in a church. 00:01:33.879 --> 00:01:38.000 It looks busy and impressive, vibrant and real. 00:01:38.339 --> 00:01:40.839 But under the surface, it is not at all happy. 00:01:40.840 --> 00:01:44.439 And it is far from healthy. 00:01:45.219 --> 00:01:48.060 The church, it seems, is teetering on the brink. 00:01:48.400 --> 00:01:53.719 And unless radical repentance, drastic intervention and wholehearted devotion are employed, 00:01:54.280 --> 00:01:56.240 then it will soon be last one out. 00:01:56.879 --> 00:01:59.280 Turn off the lights and lock the door. 00:02:01.540 --> 00:02:04.260 Feel it will not continue in its current state. 00:02:04.400 --> 00:02:06.840 And carrying on regardless will only bring devastation. 00:02:06.840 --> 00:02:16.080 Peel back the curtain and the superficial brightness quickly dissolves into doom, darkness and division. 00:02:16.780 --> 00:02:21.860 Things must change or this church will not last. 00:02:23.080 --> 00:02:28.480 I am of course talking about the church in Corinth around 58 AD. 00:02:28.479 --> 00:02:34.939 It is about seven years since the apostle Paul was in Corinth. 00:02:35.840 --> 00:02:41.899 Paul strode into the city alone and with much fear and trembling. 00:02:42.120 --> 00:02:44.780 He was there for about two-ish years. 00:02:45.179 --> 00:02:48.299 And he helped establish a real church of Jesus Christ. 00:02:48.479 --> 00:02:54.620 Right behind enemy lines in the pagan, promiscuous and perilous city of Corinth. 00:02:54.620 --> 00:03:04.259 Now though, Paul has gotten wind via word of mouth and a letter that all is not well in Corinth. 00:03:05.060 --> 00:03:11.939 And from his prison cell in Ephesus in 58 AD, he writes a letter to call out their failings, 00:03:12.080 --> 00:03:17.300 mend the fissures and correct the faults of this flailing church. 00:03:17.300 --> 00:03:25.020 It is going to be an explosive letter which will be tough to read and difficult to hear. 00:03:25.719 --> 00:03:32.000 It will catalogue the issues prevalent in the church which are legion. 00:03:32.240 --> 00:03:39.800 There is division, quarrelsomeness, departure from the gospel, departure from the cross, departure from Paul, 00:03:39.800 --> 00:03:47.980 grievous immorality, pride, gracelessness, childishness, worldliness, arrogance, folly, conceitedness, lovelessness, 00:03:48.360 --> 00:03:55.660 exhibitionism, insubordination, super spirituality, asceticism, a crisis of leadership, false teaching, lawsuits, 00:03:56.260 --> 00:04:00.460 and stagnant immaturity to name but a few. 00:04:00.460 --> 00:04:11.780 Yet against this backdrop, Paul starts the letter to the Corinthian church in the most remarkable way. 00:04:12.760 --> 00:04:20.879 As you think about this church and its problems and the pain and the grief that Paul feels for them 00:04:20.879 --> 00:04:27.259 and the state they've gotten themselves into, he starts the letter in the most remarkable way. 00:04:27.259 --> 00:04:31.980 So if you've got a Bible, please turn to 1 Corinthians chapter 1 and verse 1. 00:04:35.759 --> 00:04:37.039 And Paul writes this, 00:04:37.159 --> 00:04:45.379 Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God and our brother Sosthenes 00:04:45.379 --> 00:04:49.740 to the church of God in Corinth, 00:04:50.459 --> 00:04:56.180 to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, 00:04:56.180 --> 00:05:04.019 together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours. 00:05:05.360 --> 00:05:10.400 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:05:10.980 --> 00:05:18.120 I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 00:05:18.120 --> 00:05:27.100 For in him you have been enriched in every way with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge 00:05:27.100 --> 00:05:32.000 that God, thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. 00:05:32.959 --> 00:05:41.240 Therefore, you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 00:05:41.240 --> 00:05:49.319 He will also keep you firm to the end so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:05:49.819 --> 00:05:52.060 God is faithful. 00:05:53.019 --> 00:05:58.500 He was called you into fellowship with his son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. 00:05:58.500 --> 00:06:07.800 And it's this eight verses that I want to just, nine verses that I just want to focus our time on this morning. 00:06:09.220 --> 00:06:09.779 Evening. 00:06:11.139 --> 00:06:18.220 See at the outset that though Paul is going to give them an epistle-flavored apostolic rollicking 00:06:18.220 --> 00:06:29.540 over the course of the next 16 chapters, he starts in an incredibly gracious, incredibly positive and incredibly conciliatory manner. 00:06:30.380 --> 00:06:34.980 Just see that nine times in these nine verses he talks about Jesus. 00:06:36.020 --> 00:06:43.160 This opening is absolutely saturated and centered upon Jesus Christ. 00:06:43.160 --> 00:06:50.640 It is an introduction I think that helps us review our last seven and a bit years together. 00:06:51.439 --> 00:06:59.660 In a way that allows thanksgiving but also propels us all on into all that the future will hopefully hold. 00:07:01.280 --> 00:07:03.680 So look with me at verses two and three. 00:07:05.860 --> 00:07:09.020 Paul says that this is a real church. 00:07:09.780 --> 00:07:12.440 It is a real church. 00:07:13.160 --> 00:07:14.860 Look how he addresses them. 00:07:15.260 --> 00:07:19.620 To the church of God in Corinth. 00:07:19.880 --> 00:07:22.680 Paul does not say that they are a church. 00:07:22.920 --> 00:07:24.780 Or a part of a church. 00:07:24.860 --> 00:07:26.000 Or pseudo church. 00:07:26.200 --> 00:07:27.480 Or quasi church. 00:07:27.580 --> 00:07:28.580 Or church light. 00:07:29.140 --> 00:07:33.980 Or looks like a church, sounds like a church but actually isn't a church. 00:07:33.980 --> 00:07:41.720 He is very confident to the church of God in Corinth. 00:07:43.160 --> 00:07:49.620 He says that they are bona fide, legit, absolutely church. 00:07:49.620 --> 00:07:53.220 And they say as a real church. 00:07:53.220 --> 00:07:55.579 They are marked by three things. 00:07:56.579 --> 00:08:01.540 It is made up of those that have been sanctified in Christ Jesus. 00:08:02.819 --> 00:08:05.920 That is, they are justified in the past. 00:08:06.240 --> 00:08:10.500 They have placed their faith in Jesus, placed both their feet on the rock of Jesus Christ. 00:08:10.500 --> 00:08:14.259 And through their faith they are justified before God forever. 00:08:15.139 --> 00:08:17.120 They are sanctified. 00:08:17.800 --> 00:08:18.720 Past tense. 00:08:19.139 --> 00:08:20.879 In Christ Jesus. 00:08:21.139 --> 00:08:26.100 This church is made up of Jesus trusting people. 00:08:26.100 --> 00:08:30.340 Note that they have a present as well. 00:08:30.400 --> 00:08:31.080 That is the past. 00:08:31.180 --> 00:08:32.100 This is the present. 00:08:34.279 --> 00:08:40.120 That those who have been sanctified are now called to be his holy people. 00:08:41.120 --> 00:08:46.259 That their personal righteousness is to catch up with their positional righteousness. 00:08:46.259 --> 00:08:49.980 In God's sight they are clean but on the ground. 00:08:50.299 --> 00:08:52.639 They are to be working towards sanctified. 00:08:53.059 --> 00:08:54.279 To be holy. 00:08:54.580 --> 00:08:59.259 To allow the work of the Holy Spirit to change them from the inside out. 00:08:59.519 --> 00:09:04.240 That is those that have trusted Jesus they are now to be set apart for him. 00:09:05.360 --> 00:09:07.740 To be God's holy people. 00:09:07.899 --> 00:09:10.200 To be who they are in Christ. 00:09:10.200 --> 00:09:16.460 And see thirdly that they are a united people. 00:09:17.840 --> 00:09:24.500 They are those that are together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:09:24.620 --> 00:09:26.200 Their Lord and ours. 00:09:26.259 --> 00:09:31.060 That everyone who knows the Lordship of Jesus is a member of the church. 00:09:31.500 --> 00:09:38.040 Together unity not in a class or a language or a race or a standing or an ethnicity or an opinion or a tradition. 00:09:38.040 --> 00:09:39.879 But one in Christ. 00:09:40.860 --> 00:09:43.520 Corinth is a real church. 00:09:44.280 --> 00:09:48.360 Paul will actually say in 1 Corinthians chapter 9 verse 2. 00:09:49.280 --> 00:09:53.300 That the Corinthian church is the seal of his apostleship. 00:09:54.220 --> 00:09:58.500 He says if you want to know that I'm a real apostle let me show you the Corinthians. 00:10:00.180 --> 00:10:02.600 Not many of us would show people the Corinthians. 00:10:03.320 --> 00:10:05.379 We'd be going have you met the Philippians? 00:10:06.060 --> 00:10:09.480 These two women that don't really get on but the rest is pretty good. 00:10:10.200 --> 00:10:11.560 But not Paul. 00:10:11.660 --> 00:10:17.720 He says Corinth is the seal of my apostleship. 00:10:17.720 --> 00:10:23.580 And I think similarly as I look back on seven years at Brunsfield. 00:10:25.240 --> 00:10:28.300 I'm so thankful that this is a real church. 00:10:28.299 --> 00:10:32.620 That we haven't just been wasting our time. 00:10:32.620 --> 00:10:36.979 We haven't just been dressing up on a Sunday and going through the motions. 00:10:36.979 --> 00:10:43.919 But I am so thankful that it's a real church that's all about Jesus. 00:10:44.859 --> 00:10:47.839 That's made up of people who have trusted Jesus. 00:10:47.840 --> 00:10:51.660 Who are trying and pursuing godliness in the present. 00:10:52.660 --> 00:10:54.860 And who are not cultish. 00:10:55.360 --> 00:10:56.600 Or exclusive. 00:10:57.620 --> 00:10:59.240 Or narrow minded. 00:11:00.360 --> 00:11:06.180 But are united with everyone everywhere who calls on Jesus Christ as their Lord. 00:11:06.179 --> 00:11:11.039 And this has been the thrill to be the pastor here. 00:11:12.639 --> 00:11:17.959 It isn't this building magnificent as it is and getting more magnificent by the month. 00:11:18.799 --> 00:11:20.179 It isn't our music. 00:11:21.120 --> 00:11:23.459 That is just so helpful to me. 00:11:24.179 --> 00:11:25.339 It's not our activities. 00:11:25.559 --> 00:11:28.919 It's not even your trade breaks appreciated as they have been. 00:11:28.919 --> 00:11:36.219 The perpetual thrill for me as pastor of this church has always been Jesus. 00:11:37.219 --> 00:11:39.879 It's been his person, his work, his glory. 00:11:40.379 --> 00:11:44.279 And to have a front row seat to see the impact he's had on people's lives. 00:11:45.419 --> 00:11:49.399 That has been the joy of the last seven years. 00:11:49.539 --> 00:11:52.059 To see Jesus be the anchor in hardship. 00:11:52.240 --> 00:11:53.319 The joy in good times. 00:11:53.419 --> 00:11:54.360 The hope in death. 00:11:54.699 --> 00:11:56.000 And the Lord of lives. 00:11:56.000 --> 00:12:00.000 That is why I look back on Brunsfield with such fondness. 00:12:01.500 --> 00:12:04.059 That will be my lasting memory. 00:12:04.200 --> 00:12:08.759 That this is a real church where Jesus is the most important person. 00:12:11.860 --> 00:12:13.360 I remember at my induction. 00:12:14.299 --> 00:12:16.000 I read from Luke 10 verse 20. 00:12:17.399 --> 00:12:20.000 When Jesus has sent out the 72 and they return. 00:12:20.840 --> 00:12:24.600 And they're so excited about all that they have done and seen. 00:12:24.600 --> 00:12:26.840 And Jesus says this. 00:12:26.980 --> 00:12:29.379 Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you. 00:12:29.560 --> 00:12:32.379 But rejoice that your names are written in heaven. 00:12:35.820 --> 00:12:38.139 May we, may I, may you. 00:12:38.480 --> 00:12:40.560 Never lose the joy of that salvation. 00:12:41.340 --> 00:12:43.840 Or become inoculated to the glory. 00:12:44.340 --> 00:12:45.860 And the hope that is ours. 00:12:46.120 --> 00:12:47.259 In Christ Jesus. 00:12:47.259 --> 00:12:52.299 I also think that there's a wonderful unity at Brunsfield. 00:12:53.039 --> 00:12:56.860 Over seven years I've had the chance to visit quite a few churches. 00:12:57.379 --> 00:12:59.039 It's like being on day release. 00:12:59.039 --> 00:13:07.379 And there is something special about Brunsfield. 00:13:09.179 --> 00:13:15.399 That you look out on grey hair and no hair and brown hair and black hair and blonde hair. 00:13:15.939 --> 00:13:17.539 And everyone just sticks together. 00:13:17.539 --> 00:13:24.319 I look back on seven years and I can't think of one person that's left under a cloud. 00:13:24.320 --> 00:13:29.440 That we can testify that grace has been sufficient. 00:13:30.360 --> 00:13:36.200 That we have been together as those who call on the name of our Lord Jesus. 00:13:36.360 --> 00:13:38.300 Their Lord and us. 00:13:38.299 --> 00:13:46.759 I'm also delighted that Brunsfield is knitted into a wider network of brothers and sisters in the city. 00:13:49.179 --> 00:13:53.500 I remember going to a pastors and leaders lunch down in Pilrig Street. 00:13:54.620 --> 00:13:58.439 About the probably third week I was here. 00:13:59.419 --> 00:14:01.339 People asked me who I was and what I did. 00:14:01.819 --> 00:14:04.479 And I said, oh, I was the new pastor at Brunsfield Evangelical Church. 00:14:04.480 --> 00:14:09.159 I honestly thought they were going to have to teach me how to use a knife and fork. 00:14:09.879 --> 00:14:12.860 Because nobody knew anything about Brunsfield. 00:14:13.740 --> 00:14:15.620 Really, from the people that were there. 00:14:17.340 --> 00:14:28.220 And yet I'm so pleased that over the seven years we have hung out with, labored alongside, rejoiced with, prayed for, mourned with. 00:14:28.360 --> 00:14:31.899 Those from across the city who call on the name of the Lord Jesus. 00:14:32.519 --> 00:14:33.659 And we've done it together. 00:14:34.480 --> 00:14:37.860 That it seems as the air turns toxic. 00:14:38.800 --> 00:14:42.159 As hostility towards Christianity crowds in. 00:14:42.279 --> 00:14:43.440 We need each other. 00:14:44.860 --> 00:14:49.420 We can't just silo ourselves off or batten down the hatches. 00:14:50.379 --> 00:14:52.779 That we need others and others need us. 00:14:52.840 --> 00:14:58.840 And it is great to be involved in a larger thing than just ourselves. 00:14:58.840 --> 00:15:02.180 Of loved being part of the East of Scotland Gospel Partnership. 00:15:02.860 --> 00:15:04.840 And the encouragement and the support. 00:15:05.480 --> 00:15:09.480 And the fact that you get to see all sorts of different churches. 00:15:09.480 --> 00:15:13.100 And rejoice with them and share with them. 00:15:13.100 --> 00:15:17.620 Share in their struggles and pray for them. 00:15:17.620 --> 00:15:20.259 It's been a great thing. 00:15:20.259 --> 00:15:27.179 That this church has been and I hope will always be. 00:15:27.179 --> 00:15:32.939 A church that is together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:15:33.019 --> 00:15:33.579 Their Lord. 00:15:34.139 --> 00:15:34.620 And. 00:15:35.419 --> 00:15:35.899 Ours. 00:15:35.899 --> 00:15:40.699 Secondly I think verses 4 to 6. 00:15:40.779 --> 00:15:43.159 We see a real thankfulness. 00:15:43.159 --> 00:15:45.559 Paul writes. 00:15:45.559 --> 00:15:49.019 I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 00:15:49.579 --> 00:15:53.019 For in him you have been enriched in every way. 00:15:53.279 --> 00:15:55.559 With all kinds of speech and with all knowledge. 00:15:56.439 --> 00:15:59.199 God thus confirming our testimony about Christ. 00:15:59.719 --> 00:16:00.539 Among you. 00:16:01.600 --> 00:16:05.839 Paul writes about his thankfulness for the Christians in Corinth. 00:16:05.840 --> 00:16:08.639 I don't think he's being sarcastic. 00:16:09.980 --> 00:16:12.720 Even though he's going to write about all the ways. 00:16:12.920 --> 00:16:14.000 They're getting it wrong. 00:16:14.080 --> 00:16:16.360 And how they have caused him such pain. 00:16:16.660 --> 00:16:18.840 He says I always thank God. 00:16:19.879 --> 00:16:20.759 For you. 00:16:22.019 --> 00:16:23.620 He says they're very gifted. 00:16:23.780 --> 00:16:27.500 Despite he's going to spend a lot of the letter talking about how they're using that gifting wrongly. 00:16:27.740 --> 00:16:30.400 He still rejoices for the grace they've been given. 00:16:30.800 --> 00:16:31.920 In Christ Jesus. 00:16:31.919 --> 00:16:38.339 He says they're a group of immensely gifted people. 00:16:38.500 --> 00:16:41.319 In whom Christ Jesus is at work. 00:16:43.179 --> 00:16:48.879 In whom God is supplying all of their needs. 00:16:50.579 --> 00:16:52.439 As I look across Brunsfield. 00:16:52.839 --> 00:16:59.759 For these seven years I'm overwhelmed and so thankful for the incredible people he has brought together in this place. 00:16:59.759 --> 00:17:04.759 It is a remarkable family of individuals. 00:17:06.599 --> 00:17:13.180 From the seasoned saints who have been a wonderful model of prayerfulness and faithfulness over the long haul. 00:17:14.160 --> 00:17:20.400 I can't write or think of all the things I've learnt from Archie over these seven years. 00:17:20.720 --> 00:17:23.779 About what consistent Christian living looks like. 00:17:23.779 --> 00:17:29.399 And how it what it is looks like to keep on going over the long haul. 00:17:29.480 --> 00:17:30.599 There's many others. 00:17:31.319 --> 00:17:34.299 Who are just remarkably stable. 00:17:34.859 --> 00:17:38.779 Who every day just take one step a little bit closer to Jesus. 00:17:38.920 --> 00:17:39.940 And it's wonderful. 00:17:40.720 --> 00:17:42.960 To have seen that and to learn from it. 00:17:42.960 --> 00:17:49.160 To have great joy about the couples who met in this very room. 00:17:51.200 --> 00:17:54.819 Who were now married and flourishing in their faith. 00:17:55.700 --> 00:18:00.579 On the first day I was here Rachel McClatchy now Towler arrived. 00:18:01.519 --> 00:18:03.900 And I remember after the breaking of bread service. 00:18:04.220 --> 00:18:07.019 Going to talk to her to make sure she didn't leave. 00:18:07.220 --> 00:18:09.019 But would stay for the all age. 00:18:09.019 --> 00:18:13.879 How little did I know that there was also a certain young man in the church. 00:18:13.879 --> 00:18:18.279 Who had also noticed a young Rachel McClatchy. 00:18:19.440 --> 00:18:21.920 And to have seen them grow together. 00:18:22.039 --> 00:18:22.960 Get married together. 00:18:22.960 --> 00:18:25.839 And now be ready to step out in faith. 00:18:25.900 --> 00:18:27.619 To go to Zambia together is wonderful. 00:18:28.920 --> 00:18:31.639 One of the things that's always been in my prayer diary. 00:18:31.859 --> 00:18:34.960 Is that may Brunsfield be a place that not only supports mission. 00:18:35.460 --> 00:18:36.400 But sends mission. 00:18:36.400 --> 00:18:40.259 And I'm so excited that just on the cusp of my leaving. 00:18:41.380 --> 00:18:46.340 We're going to send two great young Christians to Zambia. 00:18:46.420 --> 00:18:48.100 To turn it upside down medically. 00:18:48.820 --> 00:18:50.240 And spiritually. 00:18:51.759 --> 00:18:54.759 I'm so thankful for the exploding Sunday school. 00:18:55.840 --> 00:18:57.759 That this year at the Nativity Play. 00:18:57.840 --> 00:19:00.080 Everyone's not going to play six roles each. 00:19:00.079 --> 00:19:02.279 But we're going to have enough. 00:19:03.059 --> 00:19:04.419 To put on a full. 00:19:06.419 --> 00:19:07.259 Nativity Play. 00:19:07.339 --> 00:19:09.679 And they're so well served by Peter. 00:19:10.339 --> 00:19:12.899 I've worked with Peter for five and a bit years. 00:19:13.139 --> 00:19:15.819 And I have learnt so much from him. 00:19:15.819 --> 00:19:21.619 I remember saying that perhaps we should hire a youth pastor. 00:19:21.799 --> 00:19:23.259 And people thought that was a bit weird. 00:19:23.619 --> 00:19:26.099 Because we didn't really have that many children at the time. 00:19:27.559 --> 00:19:29.839 Then we were so thankful that Peter applied. 00:19:29.960 --> 00:19:31.679 And Peter was employed. 00:19:32.839 --> 00:19:35.079 Peter's almost as well been like my psychiatrist. 00:19:35.079 --> 00:19:37.000 Over these five years. 00:19:37.079 --> 00:19:38.240 That when it's got a bit tough. 00:19:38.659 --> 00:19:40.199 I've gone through and sat on his couch. 00:19:40.259 --> 00:19:41.960 And he's told me that it's all going to be alright. 00:19:42.919 --> 00:19:45.220 It's probably due to his fellowship. 00:19:45.359 --> 00:19:46.819 That we've made it to seven years. 00:19:47.240 --> 00:19:48.960 If I'm honest. 00:19:49.399 --> 00:19:50.439 But it's not just Peter. 00:19:50.539 --> 00:19:52.679 There are so many faithful Sunday school leaders. 00:19:52.679 --> 00:19:54.619 Who work tirelessly. 00:19:54.619 --> 00:19:56.559 To make it happen. 00:19:56.699 --> 00:19:58.139 It has been wonderful. 00:19:58.299 --> 00:19:59.899 And something I will be so thankful for. 00:20:00.099 --> 00:20:01.539 For many years to come. 00:20:01.959 --> 00:20:02.919 We've had musicians. 00:20:04.059 --> 00:20:06.579 Who have served us week in week out. 00:20:06.859 --> 00:20:08.159 With exquisite talent. 00:20:08.319 --> 00:20:09.279 With great humility. 00:20:09.879 --> 00:20:11.899 And with remarkable faithfulness. 00:20:12.819 --> 00:20:16.019 And to be in a church that takes worship seriously. 00:20:16.159 --> 00:20:18.099 And sings well together is great. 00:20:18.939 --> 00:20:21.539 And on the days that I haven't quite been feeling it. 00:20:21.619 --> 00:20:22.919 To hear all of you sing along. 00:20:22.920 --> 00:20:26.080 Has been very very helpful to my soul. 00:20:27.300 --> 00:20:28.960 I'm so thankful for the elders. 00:20:28.960 --> 00:20:30.539 Who have shown great patience. 00:20:30.840 --> 00:20:32.140 And faith and care. 00:20:32.320 --> 00:20:34.620 As we partner together in the gospel. 00:20:35.380 --> 00:20:37.060 They are remarkable men. 00:20:41.000 --> 00:20:44.060 To the many people who work so hard behind the scenes. 00:20:44.140 --> 00:20:45.240 Making Brunsfield work. 00:20:45.320 --> 00:20:46.580 And keeping the thing afloat. 00:20:47.200 --> 00:20:49.160 From those who polish the pews. 00:20:49.240 --> 00:20:50.140 Week in week out. 00:20:50.220 --> 00:20:52.640 To make sure that all our hymn books always fall off. 00:20:52.920 --> 00:20:57.380 To the many gallons of coffee that I've drunk. 00:20:57.580 --> 00:21:01.360 Made by Sylvia and Alistair so faithfully over the years. 00:21:01.840 --> 00:21:05.120 And to the tons of tray bakes I have consumed. 00:21:06.420 --> 00:21:09.140 All done without anyone noticing. 00:21:09.140 --> 00:21:11.660 But I've made a real difference. 00:21:12.420 --> 00:21:13.540 And I'm so thankful. 00:21:14.960 --> 00:21:17.780 To now be in a staff team of seven is great. 00:21:18.820 --> 00:21:21.920 So different from the days that I used to rattle around this place. 00:21:22.360 --> 00:21:24.520 I remember about this time of year in the first year. 00:21:24.519 --> 00:21:27.119 I used to be in my office. 00:21:27.279 --> 00:21:29.799 We didn't have like timed lights in those days. 00:21:30.000 --> 00:21:32.879 And I used to like run down the corridor trying to turn off all the lights. 00:21:32.960 --> 00:21:35.539 Because when it was dark and empty I was really scared. 00:21:35.759 --> 00:21:36.940 And it was really creepy. 00:21:37.740 --> 00:21:40.299 And I tried to get out the door and not leave any lights on. 00:21:40.960 --> 00:21:43.500 And if I had I'd be very worried about going back in. 00:21:44.180 --> 00:21:45.220 To turn them off. 00:21:45.220 --> 00:21:48.940 It's been great to hang out with the staff team. 00:21:49.660 --> 00:21:50.460 And they're great. 00:21:51.059 --> 00:21:52.700 They're a great bunch. 00:21:52.819 --> 00:21:54.500 They're a great team. 00:21:54.819 --> 00:21:59.019 And it's been great to learn from them and work with them. 00:21:59.059 --> 00:22:01.860 I'm also thankful that this is turning into a training hub. 00:22:03.019 --> 00:22:05.000 That we're investing in people. 00:22:05.680 --> 00:22:07.819 And we're giving them opportunity and training. 00:22:08.279 --> 00:22:11.100 And then trusting that God will use them to do great things. 00:22:11.100 --> 00:22:14.360 Maybe in this church but maybe further afield. 00:22:14.359 --> 00:22:20.799 That we've taken an interest in expending ourselves for the Christian good of Scotland. 00:22:21.659 --> 00:22:23.439 And I'm very thankful. 00:22:27.299 --> 00:22:29.359 So look back over seven years. 00:22:29.439 --> 00:22:31.579 I'm just so thankful for having been here. 00:22:32.099 --> 00:22:35.879 And so humbled to consider all the grace that God has poured into lives. 00:22:36.339 --> 00:22:38.979 And been poured out for others in this place. 00:22:39.899 --> 00:22:42.859 I think there is great potential still to unlock. 00:22:42.859 --> 00:22:45.740 I think whoever comes in next. 00:22:46.439 --> 00:22:48.199 There's still a lot of work to do. 00:22:48.279 --> 00:22:52.919 But it's been great to be with you for this part of this journey. 00:22:55.759 --> 00:22:59.240 Thirdly I think in this passage we see there's real challenge. 00:23:00.859 --> 00:23:06.299 It says therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait. 00:23:06.299 --> 00:23:10.799 For our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 00:23:12.180 --> 00:23:17.720 Paul tells them that because of God's faithfulness to them they've not lacked anything. 00:23:19.480 --> 00:23:22.139 They've never been in want. 00:23:23.680 --> 00:23:26.059 And I think that would be our testimony. 00:23:27.099 --> 00:23:30.000 That God has always supplied for our needs. 00:23:30.259 --> 00:23:32.819 He's been there when we've needed him. 00:23:32.819 --> 00:23:35.419 We've always had enough money. 00:23:35.939 --> 00:23:39.099 We've always got through when we doubted we would. 00:23:39.419 --> 00:23:43.419 And we've stayed together because of him through thick and thin. 00:23:43.500 --> 00:23:47.500 We can testify that we have not lacked anything. 00:23:47.500 --> 00:23:51.259 But I think there's a real challenge in this verse. 00:23:51.460 --> 00:23:55.380 Because it says we don't lack anything while we wait. 00:23:56.420 --> 00:23:59.619 For our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 00:23:59.940 --> 00:24:04.519 And the Bible is always clear that waiting time is a dangerous time. 00:24:05.799 --> 00:24:07.500 That we're not here waiting. 00:24:07.700 --> 00:24:09.559 We're not twiddling our thumbs. 00:24:09.559 --> 00:24:17.819 We're not waiting in some kind of waiting room for something to happen. 00:24:19.299 --> 00:24:22.240 That we're waiting for the end. 00:24:22.339 --> 00:24:25.039 For the Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 00:24:26.500 --> 00:24:28.859 And waiting time is testing time. 00:24:29.720 --> 00:24:32.579 Whether we're going to keep the main thing the main thing. 00:24:33.220 --> 00:24:35.539 Whether we're going to hold this book tight. 00:24:35.639 --> 00:24:38.759 Whether we're not just going to assume it but we're going to proclaim it. 00:24:38.759 --> 00:24:43.240 Whether we're going to resist the drift. 00:24:43.660 --> 00:24:46.140 Whether we're going to keep an eternal perspective in mind. 00:24:46.140 --> 00:24:49.819 Because we're waiting for the Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 00:24:50.920 --> 00:24:53.200 And that will stop us feathering our nest. 00:24:53.259 --> 00:24:57.319 Or getting so preoccupied by the treasures of this world. 00:24:59.000 --> 00:25:03.440 The waiting time is testing time to keep the Lord Jesus front and center. 00:25:03.599 --> 00:25:05.420 And not let him drift to the periphery. 00:25:05.420 --> 00:25:10.279 But waiting time is also working time. 00:25:11.980 --> 00:25:15.259 It's time as we keep the end in view. 00:25:15.800 --> 00:25:19.480 It's working time as we work on our personal holiness. 00:25:20.120 --> 00:25:23.880 As we prepare ourselves for all that eternity will be. 00:25:23.880 --> 00:25:26.560 And as we look out on a lost neighborhood. 00:25:26.560 --> 00:25:28.100 In a lost city. 00:25:28.100 --> 00:25:30.160 In a majoritively lost country. 00:25:30.160 --> 00:25:32.280 It is time to make much of him. 00:25:32.660 --> 00:25:34.680 That waiting time is working time. 00:25:36.920 --> 00:25:40.920 Waiting time has every chance of complacency drifting in. 00:25:41.040 --> 00:25:43.880 Of things becoming front and center that shouldn't be. 00:25:44.120 --> 00:25:45.880 Of heresy drifting in. 00:25:45.940 --> 00:25:48.940 Of wolves not sparing the flock. 00:25:48.940 --> 00:25:53.880 But waiting time is to be working time. 00:25:55.980 --> 00:25:58.480 Waiting time is where we don't drop the ball. 00:25:59.039 --> 00:26:00.380 Where we don't free wheel. 00:26:00.539 --> 00:26:01.980 Where we don't coast. 00:26:03.620 --> 00:26:07.440 Waiting time is to be a time where we double our efforts. 00:26:07.539 --> 00:26:09.200 And then redouble our efforts. 00:26:09.200 --> 00:26:12.640 Because the end will come. 00:26:13.039 --> 00:26:16.779 Jesus will wrap up history like an old garment. 00:26:17.880 --> 00:26:20.140 And at that point there will be no space for grace. 00:26:20.200 --> 00:26:21.500 But at the moment there is. 00:26:23.759 --> 00:26:25.660 And what this community needs. 00:26:25.840 --> 00:26:27.580 What this city needs. 00:26:27.680 --> 00:26:30.059 What this country needs most of all. 00:26:31.240 --> 00:26:32.480 Is knowledge. 00:26:33.220 --> 00:26:34.860 About the real Lord Jesus. 00:26:34.859 --> 00:26:38.279 That in this. 00:26:41.079 --> 00:26:42.139 Time of transition. 00:26:42.339 --> 00:26:43.859 There is a real challenge. 00:26:44.539 --> 00:26:46.139 That we eagerly wait. 00:26:46.279 --> 00:26:47.579 That we earnestly wait. 00:26:47.679 --> 00:26:49.679 That we zealously wait. 00:26:51.019 --> 00:26:53.240 For our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 00:26:58.079 --> 00:26:59.059 And then finally. 00:26:59.219 --> 00:27:00.359 And with this I'm finished. 00:27:00.359 --> 00:27:06.439 I think as in a month's time we go our separate ways. 00:27:07.500 --> 00:27:09.439 I have real confidence. 00:27:10.959 --> 00:27:12.839 Let me read verses 8 to 9 again. 00:27:13.039 --> 00:27:13.359 He. 00:27:13.779 --> 00:27:14.659 That is Jesus. 00:27:14.799 --> 00:27:16.779 Will also keep you firm to the end. 00:27:17.319 --> 00:27:19.019 So that you will be blameless. 00:27:19.019 --> 00:27:21.000 On the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:27:21.639 --> 00:27:23.019 God is faithful. 00:27:24.699 --> 00:27:27.019 He was called you into fellowship with his son. 00:27:28.519 --> 00:27:30.139 Jesus Christ our Lord. 00:27:31.179 --> 00:27:34.379 It is very nearly time for Aileen and I to leave. 00:27:35.079 --> 00:27:38.659 And as well as being thankful for our time here. 00:27:40.039 --> 00:27:44.139 As well as being so excited by our time here. 00:27:45.000 --> 00:27:47.799 We also leave with the utmost confidence. 00:27:47.799 --> 00:27:49.299 That things will continue. 00:27:50.099 --> 00:27:53.439 That Brunsfield will go from strength to strength. 00:27:54.240 --> 00:27:57.000 That if Paul can have real confidence about Corinth. 00:27:57.000 --> 00:28:01.000 I think I can have real confidence about Brunsfield. 00:28:02.000 --> 00:28:03.700 See how Paul ends the verses. 00:28:04.740 --> 00:28:06.960 This church that has tied itself in knots. 00:28:07.059 --> 00:28:09.619 That has so many wrinkles and wrongdoings. 00:28:11.059 --> 00:28:15.500 And yet he says with such confidence that he has real hope for them. 00:28:16.019 --> 00:28:17.019 Hope not in them. 00:28:17.380 --> 00:28:19.640 But hope in his God. 00:28:19.640 --> 00:28:25.360 He says Jesus will also keep you firm to the end. 00:28:25.360 --> 00:28:25.840 Jesus. 00:28:27.380 --> 00:28:29.780 We don't have to get ourselves through. 00:28:31.000 --> 00:28:32.640 We don't have to pull our socks up. 00:28:33.640 --> 00:28:36.280 We have to remain in Jesus. 00:28:36.279 --> 00:28:40.740 If we do the John 15 thing of remaining in him. 00:28:41.259 --> 00:28:43.059 We will bear much fruit. 00:28:43.440 --> 00:28:45.519 And he will get us to the end. 00:28:45.519 --> 00:28:51.139 Then look at verse 9. 00:28:51.240 --> 00:28:52.420 If we needed more confidence. 00:28:52.539 --> 00:28:55.420 God is faithful. 00:28:59.119 --> 00:29:01.359 I met a good friend of mine on Monday. 00:29:01.500 --> 00:29:02.039 A pastor. 00:29:02.420 --> 00:29:04.660 He's the pastor of another church in the city. 00:29:04.660 --> 00:29:05.420 And he asked me. 00:29:05.980 --> 00:29:09.660 Was I worried about leaving Brunsfield? 00:29:10.379 --> 00:29:12.519 And I could honestly say I'm not. 00:29:12.519 --> 00:29:14.920 I don't have a single fear. 00:29:15.639 --> 00:29:16.759 Except unemployment. 00:29:20.259 --> 00:29:21.879 I don't have a single fear. 00:29:21.980 --> 00:29:24.339 Not because of the leadership team that will remain. 00:29:24.460 --> 00:29:26.220 Although you're in good hands. 00:29:26.980 --> 00:29:28.539 I don't have a single fear. 00:29:30.460 --> 00:29:33.019 Not because of the culture we have built. 00:29:33.119 --> 00:29:34.460 Although I think it's a good culture. 00:29:34.460 --> 00:29:35.940 Where we take the Bible seriously. 00:29:36.099 --> 00:29:37.240 And try to live it out together. 00:29:37.240 --> 00:29:44.380 The overwhelming reason I have absolutely no fear. 00:29:44.960 --> 00:29:48.620 Is because Jesus will keep you firm to the end. 00:29:49.460 --> 00:29:51.160 And that God is faithful. 00:29:51.859 --> 00:29:54.140 That the things he starts he always finishes. 00:29:56.960 --> 00:29:59.440 That his church will be built. 00:30:00.059 --> 00:30:02.440 And nothing can stand in his way. 00:30:02.440 --> 00:30:07.519 The overwhelming reason that I leave with great confidence. 00:30:07.960 --> 00:30:10.200 And excitement to see all that will happen here. 00:30:10.259 --> 00:30:12.880 In the coming days and weeks and months and years. 00:30:13.019 --> 00:30:15.299 Is because Jesus will keep you firm to the end. 00:30:15.840 --> 00:30:17.840 And that God is faithful. 00:30:19.360 --> 00:30:21.880 When I finished up mission service in Lebanon. 00:30:22.380 --> 00:30:24.200 I was also finishing with the guy who had been there. 00:30:24.200 --> 00:30:25.559 Since the foundation of the school. 00:30:26.360 --> 00:30:27.259 And I said to him. 00:30:27.259 --> 00:30:28.220 Are you worried? 00:30:29.059 --> 00:30:31.039 About leaving what will happen to the school? 00:30:31.039 --> 00:30:31.920 He said to me. 00:30:31.960 --> 00:30:32.259 John. 00:30:32.960 --> 00:30:34.379 If I thought it depended on me. 00:30:34.440 --> 00:30:35.299 I would have never come. 00:30:36.279 --> 00:30:37.599 And I think I can leave. 00:30:38.299 --> 00:30:39.480 With the same thing. 00:30:40.519 --> 00:30:41.599 In my heart. 00:30:44.119 --> 00:30:45.819 The pastor also asked me. 00:30:46.079 --> 00:30:46.940 And with this I finish. 00:30:47.019 --> 00:30:48.899 How I'd like to be remembered at Brunsfield. 00:30:51.460 --> 00:30:55.079 And I think it would be in accord with Acts 20 verse 35. 00:30:55.079 --> 00:30:57.299 As Paul concludes his pep talk. 00:30:57.500 --> 00:30:58.819 To the Ephesian elders. 00:30:59.639 --> 00:31:00.599 He says. 00:31:01.039 --> 00:31:02.559 And I hope this. 00:31:02.759 --> 00:31:03.899 For my time here. 00:31:04.180 --> 00:31:05.700 I hope this would sum it up. 00:31:06.319 --> 00:31:08.299 That by this kind of hard work. 00:31:08.920 --> 00:31:11.779 We must help the weak. 00:31:12.759 --> 00:31:15.220 Remembering the words of the Lord Jesus himself. 00:31:15.339 --> 00:31:16.700 It is more blessed to give. 00:31:17.279 --> 00:31:18.440 Than to receive. 00:31:20.440 --> 00:31:21.899 It has been great work. 00:31:22.740 --> 00:31:24.960 It has been hard work. 00:31:25.740 --> 00:31:27.339 It has been long work. 00:31:27.339 --> 00:31:28.119 It is work. 00:31:28.119 --> 00:31:29.279 It is work. 00:31:29.339 --> 00:31:30.699 I am so thankful for. 00:31:31.559 --> 00:31:32.399 It is work. 00:31:32.480 --> 00:31:33.799 That I am still excited. 00:31:34.339 --> 00:31:34.699 By. 00:31:35.519 --> 00:31:36.579 And it is work. 00:31:36.659 --> 00:31:38.240 That I'll be looking on from a distance. 00:31:38.799 --> 00:31:40.299 To see it go from strength. 00:31:40.699 --> 00:31:41.199 To strength. 00:31:41.279 --> 00:31:41.779 Let me pray. 00:31:41.779 --> 00:31:43.039 Father God. 00:31:43.039 --> 00:31:47.119 Father God. 00:31:47.119 --> 00:31:48.240 I am so thankful. 00:31:49.039 --> 00:31:50.639 For this family of people. 00:31:50.639 --> 00:31:51.319 In this. 00:31:51.440 --> 00:31:52.119 Your church. 00:31:53.940 --> 00:31:54.379 Father. 00:31:54.460 --> 00:31:56.240 I thank you that it's all about Jesus. 00:31:57.420 --> 00:31:57.859 Father. 00:31:57.940 --> 00:31:59.420 It's all for Jesus. 00:31:59.420 --> 00:32:02.200 It's all been done by. 00:32:02.580 --> 00:32:02.940 Jesus. 00:32:04.460 --> 00:32:05.060 And so. 00:32:05.200 --> 00:32:05.400 Father. 00:32:05.519 --> 00:32:06.759 I hope with that in mind. 00:32:06.860 --> 00:32:08.100 It would have borne fruit. 00:32:08.180 --> 00:32:09.259 That will last. 00:32:11.580 --> 00:32:12.019 Father. 00:32:12.100 --> 00:32:12.820 I'm so thankful. 00:32:13.560 --> 00:32:15.340 For Brunsfield Evangelical Church. 00:32:15.420 --> 00:32:16.060 For all the work. 00:32:16.140 --> 00:32:16.980 That you've been doing. 00:32:18.560 --> 00:32:20.240 And for the great vantage point. 00:32:20.300 --> 00:32:20.860 I've had. 00:32:21.340 --> 00:32:23.180 To see all that you've been doing. 00:32:24.580 --> 00:32:24.980 Lord. 00:32:25.060 --> 00:32:26.460 I pray that we would hear the challenge. 00:32:26.460 --> 00:32:28.039 As we go on into the. 00:32:28.420 --> 00:32:28.820 Future. 00:32:29.820 --> 00:32:30.320 Lord. 00:32:30.400 --> 00:32:31.880 That we are to eagerly. 00:32:32.180 --> 00:32:32.580 Wait. 00:32:33.039 --> 00:32:33.960 To faithfully. 00:32:34.100 --> 00:32:34.320 Wait. 00:32:34.440 --> 00:32:35.740 To servant heartedly. 00:32:36.300 --> 00:32:36.660 Wait. 00:32:37.740 --> 00:32:39.279 For our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:32:39.360 --> 00:32:40.080 To be revealed. 00:32:41.300 --> 00:32:41.779 And Father. 00:32:41.900 --> 00:32:43.519 As that day draws near. 00:32:43.920 --> 00:32:45.600 We might redouble our efforts. 00:32:45.740 --> 00:32:47.740 We might look out on this lost community. 00:32:47.900 --> 00:32:49.220 In a lost city. 00:32:49.680 --> 00:32:51.580 And that you might break our hearts. 00:32:52.759 --> 00:32:55.259 And that we might hold out the word of life. 00:32:55.600 --> 00:32:56.740 The Lord Jesus. 00:32:56.740 --> 00:32:58.039 Who has a complete monopoly. 00:32:58.039 --> 00:32:59.259 On saving grace. 00:32:59.420 --> 00:33:02.180 And Father. 00:33:02.300 --> 00:33:03.000 I thank you that. 00:33:03.360 --> 00:33:04.600 As this season. 00:33:04.740 --> 00:33:05.560 Draws to a close. 00:33:05.660 --> 00:33:07.400 Thank you that we have absolute confidence. 00:33:07.400 --> 00:33:08.980 Not because of who we are. 00:33:09.539 --> 00:33:11.120 Or what we have done. 00:33:11.880 --> 00:33:14.240 But because of who you are. 00:33:15.240 --> 00:33:16.920 And the fact that Jesus Christ. 00:33:17.120 --> 00:33:17.960 Will keep us. 00:33:18.519 --> 00:33:19.340 To the end. 00:33:19.339 --> 00:33:21.279 So Lord. 00:33:21.279 --> 00:33:23.679 May this continue to all be about him. 00:33:24.519 --> 00:33:26.299 May all our trust be in him. 00:33:26.379 --> 00:33:28.399 May all our hope be about him. 00:33:28.480 --> 00:33:31.099 May all our joy flow from him. 00:33:31.220 --> 00:33:33.000 May he truly continue to be. 00:33:33.379 --> 00:33:34.480 Our all in all. 00:33:35.299 --> 00:33:35.619 Father. 00:33:35.699 --> 00:33:37.240 We pray all this in his name. 00:33:37.319 --> 00:33:38.259 And for his glory. 00:33:39.000 --> 00:33:39.279 Amen. 00:33:39.279 --> 00:33:40.399 Heath св beach. 00:33:40.399 --> 00:33:41.019 Amen. 00:33:41.139 --> 00:33:41.579 Tonight. 00:33:41.579 --> 00:33:42.059 Bill. 00:33:42.160 --> 00:33:42.240 Not today. 00:33:42.240 --> 00:33:42.799 Bless himself. 00:33:43.420 --> 00:33:44.359 Will it be his love? 00:33:44.359 --> 00:33:44.460 Otherwise. 00:33:44.460 --> 00:33:44.859 Well, never send this time. 00:33:44.980 --> 00:33:45.039 Money. 00:33:47.259 --> 00:33:48.200 Life brother. 00:33:48.200 --> 00:33:48.700 Nothing much Thomas. 00:33:48.799 --> 00:33:49.200 but God. 00:33:49.279 --> 00:33:49.539 If you run on the woman, 00:33:49.539 --> 00:33:50.139 we just want to do everything on Earth. 00:33:50.139 --> 00:33:51.220 épest. 00:33:51.279 --> 00:33:51.680 Yeah. 00:33:51.680 --> 00:33:51.740 Yep. 00:33:51.740 --> 00:33:51.980 Alright. 00:33:51.980 --> 00:33:52.259 Hunt the man. 00:33:52.339 --> 00:33:53.039 It'll only step down there. 00:33:53.039 --> 00:33:53.180 Literally step Mole. 00:33:53.220 --> 00:33:53.899 Yep. 00:33:54.039 --> 00:33:54.720 May all our hope. 00:33:54.720 --> 00:33:55.480 Pray all. 00:33:55.480 --> 00:33:55.519 But God. 00:33:55.599 --> 00:33:55.940 Let us know what I know.