In a world longing for meaning, there is an invitation like no other... But what makes this invitation different from what's on offer in the culture? Listen to find out...

In this episode, we delve into the teachings of Jesus from Matthew 6:19-24, exploring the profound message about what true treasure is, which in turn creates the upside down economics of the Kingdom of God.

Initially preached at C3 North Perth as part of our 'This Strange Life' series, this particular recording was re-recorded at my home.

We delve into Jesus' often overlooked angle to the Gospel - that Jesus is teacher. Drawing wisdom from the Gospel of Matthew, we compare the teachings explore their implications against the backdrop of religious and political backgrounds of His time, and also the modern belief that a meaningful life can be achieved through wellness practices, morality, and self-awareness without a genuine commitment to God.

Finally, this episode presents a helpful creed that encapsulates the essence of the gospel, and if you want to follow along with that, then read from here:

We as a people, believe in God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

We believe in the Father, who out of love, alongside the Son and Spirit, created the Heavens and the Earth.

We believe in Jesus the Son, who was predestined to rule among us,

Conceived of the the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary,

Who followed in God’s ways and invited all into God’s ways.

In whose Kingdom, decisive victory was in suffering under Pontious Pilate.

He was crucified, died, and descended into death,

Yet, this victory was truly made known three days later when He rose again from the dead, trampling sin and death,

He is now seated at the right hand of the Father and will come from there to judge the living and the dead.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, who proceeds from the Father and the Son and, with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. Who moves across the Earth,

Dwells covenantally with believers,

And mediates Christ’s presence.

Who enables God’s growth, guidance, and gifts.

Whose power is made known in signs and wonders,

And is moving all things unto Christ’s New Creation.

We believe in the Holy catholic Church,

Called to be shaped by the death and resurrection of Jesus. Family to one another,

Who together seek to know God and make Him known,

Resist evil,

Live simple and communal lives,

Make peace,

And Wisely love their neighbours.

Turn their heads towards the poor,

Seek the common good in Jesus-shaped ways,

And confess to each other when there is failure to live in such ways, offering grace and spurring each other on.

We believe in the forgiveness of sins,

The resurrection from the dead,

And the life and the world of the age to come.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.