David Logan preaches Romans 5:1-8 at evening worship on Sunday 7th June 2026 in First Ards.

Christian hope isn’t wishful thinking, it’s a certain hope grounded in what Jesus has already done. Because we’ve been justified by faith, we have peace with God and can rejoice in the hope of His glory. That hope is also a living hope, strengthened even through suffering as God produces perseverance, character and deeper confidence in Him. And it’s an overflowing hope, poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit so that it spills out in worship, encouragement, service and witness. The church becomes “the hope on earth” as God’s love in Christ becomes visible through His people.

Rev. Craig Lynn preaches 2 Samuel 18:1–19:8a at morning worship on Sunday 31st May 2026 in First Ards.

Absalom’s rebellion finally comes to an end, but the victory is overshadowed by tragedy. As David’s forces defeat the rebel army, Absalom is killed despite the king’s plea that his son be spared. The chapter highlights the devastating consequences of sin, pride, and rebellion, while also revealing David’s deep grief as both a father and a king. Ultimately, David’s cry, “If only I had died instead of you,” points beyond himself to Jesus Christ, the greater King who did what David couldn’t, giving His life to save rebels and secure an unshakable kingdom for His people.

Rev. Craig Lynn preaches Luke 11:5:13 at morning worship on Sunday 31st May 2026 in First Ards.

Prayer begins with need. Jesus teaches us to come honestly, not self-sufficiently. The friend-at-midnight story isn’t saying God is reluctant. It’s saying if even a reluctant neighbour helps, how much more will your Father hear you? So Jesus says: ask, seek, knock. Come boldly, not presumptuously, because the Father is good. And the greatest gift the Father gives is not merely changed circumstances, but himself: the Holy Spirit. Come empty-handed through Christ. The Father gives bread, mercy, grace, and above all, his Spirit.