Rev Dr Jim Gibson – Salisbury Baptist Church

The God Who Steps In

20th October 2024

The principle of uniformity—the idea that natural processes have always operated as they do today—stands in direct opposition to the Christian understanding of a God who actively intervenes in His creation. From the very beginning in Genesis, through to Christ's incarnation and sacrifice, to the promised new heavens and new earth, God demonstrates His supernatural involvement in human history. This truth forms the foundation of Christian faith and experience, where God continues to step into individual lives, offering forgiveness and relationship through His Son Jesus Christ.

What Jesus and the Apostles Really Taught about Hell

20th October 2024

The Biblical doctrine of Hell develops from the Old Testament's limited understanding of Sheol to the New Testament's clear teaching of eternal punishment. While many attempt to soften this teaching to cater for modern sensibilities, the strongest warnings about Hell's eternal nature come from Scripture's most loving figures - Jesus, Paul, and John. Their love for humanity compelled them to speak truthfully about Hell's reality rather than offer comfortable compromises. The Holy Spirit continues to awaken people to this reality, not to terrorise them, but to lead them to salvation in Christ.

Interpreting the Second Coming

13th October 2024

The Second Coming of Christ involves a moment known as the Rapture, where believers, both dead and alive, will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air. This event, described in 1 Thessalonians 4, is a key part of premillennial interpretation of end-time prophecy. There are more events to occur mentioned by the Books of Daniel and Revelation needing to be understood as to when and how they fit in with this eschatological model. The "Lord's Return" involves more than just a "rapture". If the Rapture takes the Christians away, what then happens with the population left behind on earth and how do the politics work out with the struggle Israel has with surrounding nations? The operations of the Antichrist and the machinations of the nations are far harder to interpret from the Book of Revelation and its later chapters. While there are different views on the timing and nature of Christ's return with His saints, this 1st Thessalonians chapter 4 passage provides clear details about the reunion of believers with the Lord in the sky. Understanding these teachings offers comfort and hope for Christians, assuring them that they will always be with Christ after this reunion with Him.

The Sun and Shield: God’s Blessings for the Upright

13th October 2024

God is both a sun and a shield to those who walk uprightly, bestowing favour and honour. He withholds no good thing from His faithful followers. The Old Testament, far from being obsolete, provides valuable instruction on how to navigate life according to God's design. By meditating on God's Word and learning His statutes, we gain wisdom more precious than gold or silver. Though we may face afflictions, these often serve to draw us closer to God and deepen our understanding of His ways. Ultimately, the Lord calls us to trust Him completely, resting in the assurance of His goodness and guidance.

Unpacking the Millennium

29th September 2024

Post-millennialism is one of three major theories about the Biblical millennium, the other two being Pre-millennialism or A-millennialism. These three descriptors are actually adjectives describing the Return of Christ with reference to the timing of the 1000 years of the “Millennium”. Post-Millennialism pictures the 1000 years as being a successful period of Church influence such as to bring about the dawn of a better world. Initially, in times of conservative Christianity, this was seen as due to the success of Christian mission introducing “a bright new world of peace and happiness”. Later Post-millennialism, still with an optimistic note, but with more liberal understanding of the influence of the Church, explained the expected uplift as due to scientific advancement, ethical improvement of society and/or evolution. Post-millennialism of this sort sees the societal uplift due to causes such as evolution or technological advancement. Post-millennialism today sometimes seeks to fit in with Liberal theology reinterpreting the Gospel, with the uplift as caused by social or technological progress. Finally, when focus is taken back to what the Book of Revelation actually says, Revelation 20:4-6 describes events that seem to contradict post-millennial interpretations.

Little Ones and the Reality of Hell

29th September 2024

Jesus speaks about hell more than anyone else in Scripture, using the word "Gehenna" to describe a place of eternal, unquenchable fire. This teaching is difficult but crucial to understand. The Bible consistently portrays hell as a place of everlasting punishment for those who reject Christ. However, the same passages that warn of eternal damnation also proclaim the hope of eternal life for those who put their faith in Jesus. Salvation begins the moment we trust in Christ, receiving the Holy Spirit and becoming new creations. The gravity of hell should compel us to respond to God's offer of forgiveness and life through His Son.

Finding God’s Will

22nd September 2024

God is capable of guiding His people, both through sovereign intervention and in response to our seeking His will. The story of Abraham's servant finding a wife for Isaac illustrates key principles in discerning God's guidance. These include taking practical steps, praying specifically, watching for God's response, and being willing to follow His lead. While God may not always answer in the way we expect, He honours those who earnestly seek His direction. Ultimately, finding God's will involves a balance of divine providence and human responsibility, underpinned by a life of prayer and trust in the Lord's steadfast love.

The Heart of Jesus for the Lost

22nd September 2024

Jesus' parable of the lost sheep reveals His unwavering commitment to seeking the lost, even at the expense of leaving the ninety-nine. This priority should shape the Church's mission, with every believer participating through their unique spiritual gifts. Whether through direct evangelism or supporting roles within the Church, all are called to be part of Christ's mission. A thriving church is marked by rich fellowship, expository preaching, and a unified focus on reaching the lost, reflecting Jesus' own heart and mission.

Faith Amidst the Tempest

15th September 2024

Following Christ doesn't guarantee smooth sailing; it may lead to unexpected storms. However, these challenges are opportunities for Jesus to reveal His power and for our faith to grow. The key is not to focus on the tempest or second-guess our decisions, but to rest in the knowledge that Christ is present in our circumstances. When we truly grasp that Jesus is 'in our boat', we can find peace amidst turmoil, knowing that He is in control and working out His purposes, even when He seems silent or inactive.

The Awakening of the Soul

15th September 2024

Christian conversion is more than a change of religion or joining a church; it is a spiritual awakening brought about by the Holy Spirit. This awakening involves a conviction of sin, a turning to Christ as Saviour, and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. The process of conversion is often contested by Satan, but Christ intercedes on our behalf. True conversion results in a transformed life, described in Scripture as being 'snatched from the burning'. The need for genuine conversion applies not only to individuals but also to entire communities and nations.