SPB Sermons || Sun 23rd Feb || Mark 12: 28-34 || One Lord: One Way || Rev Ian Cahoon

Sermon Blog - Mark 12:28-34

On Sunday, 26th February 2025, at St Paul’s & St Barnabas, we had the privilege of welcoming Rev. Ian Cahoon from Alexandra Presbyterian Church, who preached from Mark 12:28-34. This passage brings us to the heart of Jesus’ teaching on the greatest commandment—what it truly means to love God and love our neighbour.

The scribe who approached Jesus that day was not trying to trap Him, as others had done. Instead, he genuinely sought wisdom, asking, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” Jesus’ response was simple yet profound: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” He then adds, “Love your neighbour as yourself.” These are the foundation of a life lived in obedience to God.

Rev. Cahoon reminded us that this call to love is not transactional—God is not merely looking for external obedience or religious performance. Rather, He calls for whole-hearted devotion. True faith is not about rules but about relationship. It is about knowing God, not just knowing about Him. It is about living in response to His grace, not trying to earn His favour.

And yet, Jesus’ final words to the scribe are sobering: “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” To be near is not the same as being in. Many admire Jesus’ teaching but stop short of surrendering to Him as Lord. The challenge for us today is clear: Are we merely close to the kingdom, or are we fully in? Do we acknowledge Jesus as a great teacher, or have we made Him the Lord and Saviour of our lives?

If you missed this sermon or want to reflect on it again, we invite you to listen below. And if you're searching for a place to grow in faith, to be part of a community that seeks to love God and love one another, we’d love to welcome you at St Paul’s & St Barnabas. Come and see what God is doing among us.

Comments

Opportunities To Gather and Grow || SPB NOTES || Coming up to Winter 2024

As we enter a season full of opportunities to gather and grow, I want to encourage everyone to participate in the life of our church. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” Gathering is a vital part of our faith, and these events are designed to strengthen our fellowship, prayer life, and outreach efforts. Each event, whether it’s our community prayer meeting, the winter coat project, or the Advent services, is a chance for us to come together as the body of Christ, using the unique gifts God has given us. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 highlights that we are all members of one body, and every part is needed to function as God intended. When we gather, pray, and support the church’s work, we not only bless each other but our entire community. I encourage you to engage deeply in these events and find where you can serve. Whether it’s helping ...

What's On at St Paul's & St Barnabas – Week Beginning 9th Feb 2025

What's On at St Paul's & St Barnabas – Week Beginning 9th Feb 2025 For Christ & Our City – What’s On This Week at St Paul’s & St Barnabas As we continue in the rhythm of life as a church family, we are reminded that our gathering together is not just about events on a calendar but about seeking Christ, strengthening one another, and serving our city in His name. Here’s what’s happening in the week beginning 9th February 2025 at St Paul’s & St Barnabas. Monday – Vestry Meeting (7:30 PM) The Vestry is gathering in the Parish Centre for our regular meeting. This is where we prayerfully steward the mission and ministry of the church, ensuring that all we do serves to glorify God and bless our community. Wednesday – Gather (7:30 PM) Midweek is a time to slow down, come together, and be refreshed in God’s ...

Community Payer Meeting at St Paul's & St Barnabas

Community Prayer Gathering This past Wednesday evening, we were privileged to gather in the newly refurbished lounge at St Paul’s & St Barnabas for a community prayer meeting. It was a joy to welcome friends from other churches across the area as we united in prayer for our church, our community, and the wider world. The theme for the evening was to seek God's guidance, and blessing for our church and community. Scripture encourages us to pray without ceasing ( 1 Thessalonians 5:17 ) and to come boldly to the throne of grace ( Hebrews 4:16 ), and so we lifted up our voices in faith. During the prayer meeting, we focused on key areas: our local community, the great work of the churches in the area , and personal renewal. Encouraged by the echols of Philippians 4:6 , where we are encouraged to bring our requests to God with thanksgi...

St Pauls and St Barnabas

Search This Blog