Christ Jesus, who became to us… righteousness. 1 Corinthians 1:30 If you are to grasp and enjoy your new purity in Christ, there are two things you need to know, and they are both right here in this verse. The first one is that Christ is your righteousness. Your faith does not make you right with God, nor does your repentance, or your performance i…

This broadcast dives into the challenges of genuine love, urging us to love those close to us—the people in our homes, churches, and communities. Pastor Colin shares profound insights from Romans chapter 12, highlighting the call to "let love be genuine" and overcome evil with good, just as God loves us in our imperfect state. Throughout the episod…

To the one who… believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness. Romans 4:5 God justifies sinners. This is mind-boggling. You would expect this verse to say that God justifies the righteous. If God is just, surely He should be looking to justify people who have not broken His law. But nobody is righteous—not even on…

Today we are looking at the biblical concept of overcoming evil with good, guided by the profound wisdom in Romans chapter 12. Surprisingly, scripture emphasises that the journey to overcoming evil begins not with grand gestures, but with genuine love. Love might not top the list of strategies we'd instinctively think of—many might opt for prayer o…

You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:11 This is the first of the four dimensions of our new identity in Christ: when we are in Christ, we are clean, though we still sin. The word the Bible uses to describe this is justification. “Since we have bee…

Welcome to a new episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. In today's uplifting and insightful broadcast, Pastor Colin delves deep into Romans 12, reminding us not to be overcome by evil but to overcome evil with good. As he explores the challenges faced by early Christians under the Roman Empire, Pastor Colin offers timeless wisdom and ho…

Because of [God] you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30 This is one of the most marvellous statements in the whole of the Bible. In earlier verses, Paul reminds us that God calls ordinary, unimpressive human beings like us, who have nothing very much to boast ab…

If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 This is one of the hardest truths for us to grasp in all of the Bible. If the old has really gone, then why do we still face the same old temptations? Why do we still struggle with the same temperament? The Bible tells us that we are …

The women of the neighbourhood gave him a name, saying. "A son has been born to Naomi". They named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse. the father of David. Ruth 4:17 We have seen that the baby born in Bethlehem is described as a redeemer. Here we are told that they named him Obed, and Obed means servant. So the baby born in Bethlehem is a redeeme…

In today's broadcast, we dive into a pressing question that many are grappling with – how do we navigate the deep divisions in our society today? From issues of life, marriage, and gender to the challenges surrounding death, we explore what the Bible has to say. Join Pastor Colin as he takes us on a journey through Romans 12, offering biblical insi…

The righteous flourish like the palm tree… They are planted in the house of the LORD; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age. Psalm 42:12-14 Don’t miss the wise counsel that can be gleaned from the story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz.Wisdom for those who are older. Stay close to those who love you. Take an active intere…

Have you ever asked yourself, "Does the new life live in me?" It's not just about living a moral or successful life, or even feeling part of a church. The heart of the matter is whether the life of Jesus Christ is within you. Pastor Colin explores how to discern this vital spiritual state through insights from Galatians. Whether you've been ponderi…

He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has given birth to him. Ruth 4:15 How will this child be a restorer of life and a nourisher of Naomi's old age? The redeemer brings love. “Your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seve…

Pastor Colin delves into the heart of Galatians chapter 6, tackling the intriguing contrasts between viewing Jesus as merely a teacher and acknowledging Him as our Saviour. The discussion highlights the profound challenge of confronting our own inadequacies and the natural human tendency to want to earn salvation rather than accepting it as a free …

The women said to Naomi, “Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a redeemer, and may his name be renowned in Israel!” Ruth 4:14 There was a close relative who was not willing to redeem. He could have helped Naomi, but he didn’t. Maybe you have had something like this happen. Friends or family could have helped you, but they didn…

Today, we're looking into the ongoing spiritual battle Christians face in navigating life with the 'flesh'. Pastor Colin elaborates on the powerful analogy of gardening to illustrate sin's persistent pull and how we can weaken its hold with determination and by living through the Spirit. Drawing on the wisdom of John Owen, a renowned Puritan writer…

May the LORD make the woman… like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel. May you act worthily in Ephrathah... and may your house be like the house of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah, because of the offspring that the LORD will give you. Ruth 4:11-12 Ruth and Boaz are married in the presence of many witnesses, and what follows c…

Today we look at the heart of Christian life as Pastor Colin explores what it means to live by the Spirit. Discover the encouragement that comes from knowing that the very fact you're battling with sin is a sign of the Holy Spirit at work within you. Using the book of Galatians, chapters 5 and 6, Pastor Colin explains how true believers are not onl…

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. 1 Peter 1:3-4 Why is this story in the Bible? It shines a light on o…

It is true that I am a redeemer. Yet there is a redeemer nearer than I... If he will redeem you, good; let him do it. But if he is not willing to redeem you, then, as the LORD lives, I will redeem you. Ruth 3:12-13 The job description for a redeemer would be: To bring hope by restoring an inheritance and raising a family. What qualifications would …

“Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer.” Ruth 3:9 Ruth asked Boaz to commit himself to her in marriage because he was a redeemer. Redeemer is the single most important word in this story, and it is one of the richest and most beautiful descriptions of our Lord Jesus Christ. What is a redeemer? God revealed His truth progressiv…

Today Colin dives deep into how Christians can sometimes unknowingly surrender their freedom in Christ. Many believers find themselves continuously battling sin, facing defeat, and calling a truce with these struggles. But Colin emphasises that indulging the flesh can rob us of our God-given freedom. This episode, based on Galatians chapters three …

May you be blessed by the LORD, my daughter. You have made this last kindness greater than the first in that you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich. Ruth 3:10 Ruth’s initiative in coming to Boaz gives us a picture of how we should come to Jesus. Ruth took a risky initiative of faith. She went to Boaz and asked. And because she aske…

Today, we're diving into the heart of what it means to truly grasp the Gospel and live free from the bondage of sin. Are you struggling with a particular sin or ongoing battle in your life? Pastor Colin reminds us that while we may be weak, the Spirit of God residing within us is strong and mighty. The Gospel doesn't just offer forgiveness; it empo…

“Now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you ask.” Ruth 3:11 We saw earlier what we can learn from Naomi’s example of love. There is more for us to learn about love from the example of Boaz. Love waits. “She lay at his feet until the morning” (3:14). Boaz faced an extraordinary test of his character and integrity. If this were the…

Today we are looking at Galatians chapter 3, exploring the impact of the Gospel and how it transcends mere adherence to law. Pastor Colin delves into the age-old struggle between feeling burdened by the law versus embracing the freedom and life granted through Christ. As we navigate this discussion, we’re reminded of the essential truth that the Go…

"She went down to the threshing floor and did just as her mother-in law had commanded her." Ruth 3:2, 3:7, 3:9, 2:12, 3:11 After the winnowing was done, one of the farm workers would spend the night on the threshing floor to guard the grain. Naomi knew that Boaz would be guarding the grain that night (3:2). And when Ruth went to the threshing floor…

Today, we're looking at truths found in the Book of Galatians. We'll explore why living by laws or our own efforts can never impart life or righteousness. Discover how the gospel is not simply forgiveness plus the law, but rather forgiveness plus life—the life of Christ within us through the Holy Spirit. Pastor Colin helps us grasp the liberating d…

“Wash therefore and anoint yourself, and put on your cloak and go down to the threshing floor… When he lies down… go and uncover his feet and lie down, and he will tell you what to do.” Ruth 3:2-4 Ruth 3:2-4 Naomi tells her daughter-in-law to make herself as attractive as possible, to sneak up on a man in the middle of the night, and to lie down at…

In today's discussion, Pastor Colin explores the topic of grace and its transformative power in our lives. As we dive into Galatians chapter two, we confront the challenging concept of righteousness and what it truly means to be justified not by law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. Throughout the broadcast, Pastor Colin emphasises the crucial gospel …

My daughter, should I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you? Ruth 3:1 Naomi was an older woman. Ruth had made an extraordinary commitment to care for her, but what would happen when Naomi was gone? Naomi gives us a marvellous example of love. Love appreciates what others have done and seeks to do good for them. “Should I not seek rest…

My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 The story of Ruth is a marvellous story of hope. If you are feeling hopeless today, what should you do? Do what you can. Ruth took responsibility, and she used the strength God had given her. She also took the initiative to go out into the fiel…

When [Ruth] rose to glean, Boaz instructed his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her. And also pull out some from the bundles for her and leave it for her to glean, and do not rebuke her.” Ruth 2:15-16 Ruth had been following the reapers and picking up the scraps. But after the meal, the reapers started d…

Join us as we delve into Galatians chapter 2, exploring the early church challenges in maintaining the purity of the gospel. We'll uncover how Christian unity requires embracing the gospel of grace rather than imposing cultural distinctives. Pastor Colin emphasises that the gospel is truly for the world—rooted in grace and offering life. Listen as …

At mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come here and eat some bread and dip your morsel in the wine.” So she sat beside the reapers, and he passed to her roasted grain. And she ate until she was satisfied, and she had some left over. Ruth 2:14 The whole Bible is one story that consistently points to our Lord Jesus Christ, and Boaz points us very clearly to…

Today, we explore how the Gospel addresses the planet's biggest issue—being on the wrong side of God. While life's challenges might seem overwhelming, Pastor Colin reminds us that the ultimate question is our relationship with God and the eternal implications of being estranged from Him. Join us as we delve into Galatians Chapter One, uncovering th…

The LORD repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge! Ruth 2:12 Boaz had heard about Ruth’s loving commitment to her mother-in-law. He is deeply impressed, and he wants her kindness to be rewarded. Boaz extends himself in showing kindness to Ruth, an…

In today's broadcast, we're embarking on an exciting new series called "Grasping the Gospel." Join Pastor Colin as he explores the heart of what it means to live a life of faith, just as Paul did, by trusting the Son of God who loved us and gave Himself for us. We'll be diving into the book of Galatians, discovering how the Gospel isn't just about …

She… went and gleaned in the field after the reapers, and she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the clan of Elimelech. Ruth 2:3 It seems that this all happened by chance. Ruth did not know the field belonged to an eligible member of her husband’s family. But we do! Boaz is a marvellous example of a good employe…

Today, we uncover the wisdom of giving up personal agendas to embrace a life centred around Jesus Christ. In today’s discussion drawn from 1 Corinthians 2, Pastor Colin delves into the concept of God’s secret wisdom and how it contrasts with the world's approach to life. Through inspiring personal testimonies and scriptural insights, learn how plac…

Now Naomi had a relative of her husband’s, a worthy man of the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz. Ruth 2:1 Now we are introduced to the third main character in the story. The fact that Boaz belonged to Naomi’s family is mentioned twice (2:1, 3). We are being let in on a secret: There is another relative. He is “a worthy man” of good character …

In today's message, "You Are Wise," part of the "Be Yourself" series, we dive into the difference between wisdom and knowledge. Join us as Pastor Colin explores how true wisdom comes from living in Christ, rather than just accumulating information. Through the metaphor of "whole grain" versus "white flour" gospel, Pastor Colin illustrates how cruci…

I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people. I am the LORD your God. Leviticus 26:12-13 Here are two more principles for growing in faith in the midst of sorrow. Remember that the LORD has made a covenant with you. “LORD” in four capital letters is the name used in relation to the covenant God made with His people. The LO…

The Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me… The Almighty has brought calamity upon me… Ruth 1:20-21 How are we to overcome the waves of sorrow, the distortions of grief, and the bitterness that lurks at sorrow’s door? A beautiful strategy unfolds in Naomi’s example. Here is the first of three principles for growing in faith in times of loss: affi…

“Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went away full, and the LORD has brought me back empty.” Ruth 1:20-21 Here are two more truths we learn from how Naomi navigates her grief. Grief distorts. “I went away full, and the LORD has brought me back empty” (1:21). When Naomi left Bethlehem, she had a h…

In this episode, "The Myths of the Holy Ghost," we explore the profound truth that Christianity is about more than just witnessing the glory of Jesus—it's about sharing in that glory. Pastor Colin reminds us that as Christians, we are not just in the world but sent into it, with the glory of Christ manifest in us. This message offers encouragement …

The two of them went on until they came to Bethlehem. And when they came to Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them. And the women said, “Is this Naomi?” Ruth 1:19 Ten years had passed since Naomi left Bethlehem. Three bereavements had taken their toll and when she arrived home with Ruth, her friends barely recognised her. The first t…

In today's broadcast, we delve into the often elusive concept of holiness. Pastor Colin guides us through John chapter 17 and 1 Corinthians 1:30, helping unravel the mystery of what it truly means to be 'holy.' With relatable anecdotes and clear explanations, Colin explores the dual meanings of holiness as both a position in Christ and a process of…

Ruth said… “Where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the LORD do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you." Ruth 1:16-17 Ruth makes a marvellous commitment to Naomi, and we see three marks of this lov…

Today, we continue our series "Be Yourself," diving into the liberating truth that sin is no longer your master. Pastor Colin elaborates on how, as believers, we stand in a new position—free to engage in the battle against sin with the strength and support of the Holy Spirit. In this broadcast, we unravel the depth of our identity in Christ and wha…