Our first tip comes from my friend Roger Packham, a teacher and therapeutic counsellor. He and his wife have been instrumental in founding and developing the Dorset Church of Christ - https://www.youtube.com/@TheDorsetChurchofChrist. --- Today's Tip Roger says: "Have good quiet times: Take time to dig into a topic. Look at different translations (N…

Last year, I decided to find a way to have a better feel for Scripture as a whole. Today I would like to tell you the method I used. I am not suggesting you do exactly as I did, but perhaps it will inspire you to develop your own plan. Let me share my four-step, three-app plan. Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/how-and-why-to-read-the-bible-in…

Where do preachers and teachers of Scripture get their strength from? Before we talk about the 'hows' of preaching and teaching, we must understand where the power lies. Therefore, before we encounter our first tip next week from my friend Roger Packham, I want to say a few words about the power of the Spirit. Notes: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teac…

Last year, I decided to find a way to have a better feel for Scripture as a whole. I'd like to tell you how I proceeded. Next week, I will share precisely what I did. But first, let me remind you why it's important to have a handle on the whole of Scripture, not just our favourite bits. Today, 8 reasons to make a plan to become familiar with all Sc…

Do you believe your voice matters? The most significant barrier to becoming someone God can use to speak His Word to the blessing of many is not a lack of experience or a paucity of technique. The highest hurdle to overcome is believing that your voice matters. Therefore, before we encounter our first tip, I want to say a few words about the value …

Today, we conclude the series by looking at verses twenty-three to twenty-four of the Psalm. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-18-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-e…

Imagine a young sailor setting out to sea for the first time. They have the boat, the sails, and the wind at their back, but without the wisdom of seasoned sailors, they risk being lost in the vastness of the ocean. Your tips are like the stars on their map—small but crucial lights that guide them safely to their destination.... Notes: https://www.…

Today, we look at verses nineteen to twenty-two of the Psalm. “O that you would kill the wicked, O God, and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me— those who speak of you maliciously, and lift themselves up against you for evil! Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you? I hate them with perfect…

Last week, I shared an invitation to contribute your top three tips for inexperienced preachers and teachers to help shape a new video series launching in January 2025. Thank you to those who have already sent in their ideas—your insights are invaluable! So far, the tips have centred on the ideas of having a good personal devotional life, personal …

Today, we look at verses seventeen and eighteen of the Psalm. “How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! I try to count them—they are more than the sand; I come to the end—I am still with you.” Notes can be found here: Try using these prayers as starters for your own: - "Lord, Your thoughts toward me are more than I c…

If you are an inexperienced preacher or teacher of Scripture, what is your biggest need? What barriers do you need to overcome? What help would be useful so that you could be the best you can be? Also, if you listen to inexperienced speakers, what would be your top tip to them? Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-tip-393-your-voice-matt…

Psalm 139.15-16 “My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes beheld my unformed substance. In your book were written all the days that were formed for me, when none of them as yet existed.” Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-15-…

The story of the birth of Jesus is well-known. How do we keep it fresh when we preach and teach about it? That's what this series is all about. Last week, we discussed engaging the imagination. This week, in our final recording on this topic, we discuss balancing tradition while at the same time being innovative. Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.…

Today, we look at verse fourteen of the Psalm. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Notes: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-14-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-548/ ext time, we will continue our exploration of Psalm 139. I am planning a …

The story of the birth of Jesus is well-known. How do we keep it fresh when we preach and teach about it? That's what this series is all about. Last week, we discussed finding fresh angles. This week we discuss using our imagination to make the familiar story come alive. Let me offer you three ideas. Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-…

Introduction Today, we look at verse thirteen of the Psalm. “For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” Psalm 139.13 --- We are entering the third section of the Psalm. Verses 13-18 declare that God made us; therefore, we are secure and in awe of him. ‘Formed’: “Among the many ways the word is used, one is…

The story of the birth of Jesus is well-known. How do we keep it fresh when we preach and teach about it? That's what this series is all about. Last week, we discussed our starting point. We begin by finding our personal conviction and inspiration through reflection on scripture and prayer. Once we have done that, we are ready to consider our appro…

Today, we look at verses eleven and twelve of the Psalm. “If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light around me become night,” even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you.” (Psalm 139:11-12) Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-12-…

How do we keep things fresh when we're discussing something for the hundredth time? It can be challenging to speak about the Christmas story while keeping your audience's attention. I hope these recordings will inspire you to think fresh thoughts that will benefit your lessons and your congregations. Send questions and comments here ➡️ malcolm@malc…

Today, we look at verses nine and ten of the Psalm. “If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast.” (Psalm 139:9-10) Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-11-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-5…

Do you like watching interviews? They are a staple of television and all online media. We are endlessly fascinated by the lives and opinions of other people. Have you used this format in a church service? I did so recently for the first time in Watford. We had [Dr Jennifer Konzen](https://www.theartofintimatemarriage.com/dr-jennifer-konzen) in town…

Today, we look at verse eight of the Psalm. Psalm 139:8 "If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there." Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-10-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-544/ Next time, we will continue our exploration of Psalm 139. I am planning a spiritual ex…

This is part three of the series helping us to learn how to learn from other preachers. We've had a look at the sermon by a friend of mine called Bruce so that we can do the following: 1. We will be able to imitate his good practices. 2. We will learn how to review a sermon to spot what is done well In part one, I introduced the sermon and what we …

Today, we look at verse seven of the Psalm. “Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence?” (Psalm 139:7 NRSV) Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-9-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-543/ Next time, we will continue our exploration of Psalm 139. I am planning a spiritual exp…

Which preachers and teachers do you admire? How do you decide what is valuable about their content or presentation worth imitating? That's what we are examining in this set of three episodes. Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-tip-386-sermon-review-part-2-11-tips-for-highlighting-excellence-malcolm-cox/ Send questions and comments here…

Today, we look at verse six of the Psalm and God's unattainable knowledge. “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it.” (Psalm 139:6 NRSV) Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-8-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-542/ Next time, we will continue our exploration of Psa…

Last Sunday, my very good friend Bruce Miller travelled up to Watford to preach for us. I was so encouraged by his lesson that I thought we would take two Teaching Tips to explore what he did well. There are two reasons for doing this. 1. We will be able to imitate his good practices. 2. We will learn how to review a sermon to spot what is done wel…

Today, we look at verse five of the Psalm and God's protection. “You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.” (Psalm 139:5 NRSV) Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-7-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-541/ Next time, we will continue our exploration of Psalm 139. I am planning a spiri…

Today, we wrap up our series exploring why we do what we do at a Sunday gathering. Let me offer a few final thoughts on what is happening when we gather for worship - COSMIC WORSHIP and GOD AT WORK! Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-tip-384-hosting-sunday-worship-part-11-cosmic-worship-malcolm-cox/ Send questions and comments here ➡️ …

Today, we look at verse four of the Psalm and God's knowledge of our words. “Even before a word is on my tongue, O LORD, you know it completely.” (Psalm 139:4 NRSV) Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-6-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-540/ Next time, we will continue our exploration of Psalm 139. I …

Today, we explore more of why we do what we do at a Sunday gathering. Today’s topic is ‘bits and pieces’. Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-tip-383-hosting-sunday-worship-part-10-bits-and-pieces-malcolm-cox/ Send questions and comments here ➡️ malcolm@malcolmcox.org Watch This Next: https://youtu.be/ihxPxT1Bjl8 Subscribe to my Podcast…

You will find us at the following address on Sundays, 10:30AM: West Watford Free Church (Baptist), The Church-by-the-Crossing, Tolpits Lane, Watford, WD18 6NU Classes for children every Sunday 10:30 AM Drop us a line for more information: thewatfordchurch@gmail.com. https://watfordchurchofchrist.org/…

Today, we look at verse three of the Psalm and God's knowledge of our 'ways'. “You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.” (Psalm 139:3 NRSV) Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-5-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-539/ Next time, we will continue our exploratio…

Psalms were an integral part of OT worship, and some psalms end with doxologies (a praise formula) or prayers that might have served a concluding role in worship. For example, Psalm 106 ends with: "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Let all the people say, 'Amen!' Praise the Lord." Notes here: https://www.mal…

What does God know about you? How do you feel about what he knows? What difference does it make to our lives that he has searched and known us? Today, we look at verse two of the Psalm and God's knowledge of our inner and outer lives. “You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from far away.” (Psalm 139:2 NRSV) Notes here…

Do you ever wonder what to preach about—or even if you can preach? Where should you start? What matters most so you can preach confidently and the congregation goes home inspired? I have answers for you in this episode! Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/tuesday-teaching-tip-381-guidance-for-those-hosting-parts-of-sunday-worship-series-part-8-p…

Do you want God to know you? Really know you? How do you feel about God searching you? Let's take some time today to consider how to process God knowing us, and learn to welcome it. Show Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-3-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-537/ Question How do you feel about God sea…

Today, we continue a series exploring why we do what we do at a Sunday gathering. Last week, we focussed on testimonies. Today’s topic is the Lord’s Supper, communion, or eucharist. Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-tip-380-hosting-sunday-worship-part-7-leading-the-lords-supper-malcolm-cox/ Send questions and comments here ➡️ mal…

Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-2-malcolm-cox-quiet-time-coaching-episode-536/Malcolm Cox

Today, we will explore a key way God's people stay excited about the adventure despite the changes around them. The points below apply to us personally, but I'm going to focus on how they are relevant to a group of Christians. Where do we start? Learn to distinguish between your shadow mission and your true mission. Show notes here: https://www.mal…

This series explores why we do what we do at a Sunday gathering. Last week, we focussed on announcements and updates. This week’s topic is testimonies. Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-tip-379-hosting-sunday-worship-part-6-testimonies-malcolm-cox/ God bless, MalcolmMalcolm Cox

Show Notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/quiet-time-coaching-episode-535-you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-series-part-1-malcolm-cox/Malcolm Cox

Show Notes Here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/teaching-tip-378-hosting-sunday-worship-part-5-announcements-and-updates-malcolm-cox/Malcolm Cox

Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/a-new-challenge-part-4-the-community-bonding-challenge/Malcolm Cox

Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/quiet-time-coaching-episode-534-overwhelmed-and-inspired-by-community-prayer-requests-malcolm-cox/Malcolm Cox

It is a tremendous privilege to lead a congregation in prayer. 20, 50, 200 people are listening to you intercede with God on their behalf. Who is worthy of such a responsibility? Certainly not me, and probably not you. However, leading others in prayer is a worthy activity. How do we do this in a way that honours God, and edifies the congregation? …

Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/quiet-time-coaching-episode-533-learning-to-practice-his-presence-a-new-creation-part-24-malcolm-cox/Malcolm Cox

Do you feel welcomed by being told off? How about by someone confessing their sins? I have seen both done by people doing what is sometimes called "the welcome". On neither occasion did I feel welcomed. In my opinion this is the part of our Sunday services which is least well understood in terms of its purpose. Let's put that right in this episode.…

Show notes can be found here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/quiet-time-coaching-episode-532-learning-the-death-of-jesus-a-new-creation-part-23-malcolm-cox/Malcolm Cox

The world tells us we are worthless unless we measure up to body type, income level, educational achievement, etc. What is our antidote to that? Show notes here: https://www.malcolmcox.org/you-are-a-wonder-psalm-139-malcolm-cox-11-aug-2024/ Send questions and comments here ➡️ malcolm@malcolmcox.org Watch This Next: (Insert a link to a video you wan…