Community Part 2

Hi Church,

This week I gave my Part 2 of what Community looks like at Grace Church. Community is the third pillar that upholds our vision.  And this week I added two more points to the three from last week. 

So this week’s message emphasises that our community is called to be missional, not insular. The Table is more than a destination—it is a launching point, where diverse believers gather, pray, worship, and listen to the Holy Spirit together (Acts 13:1–3). Leadership and direction come through communal discernment, mutual accountability, and shared responsibility, rather than through a single voice. The Antioch church model inspires us to value diversity and unity, celebrating heavenly culture above all (Acts 13; John 17:20–23).

As Jesus commands in Matthew 28:18–19, we are sent to make disciples of all nations, and empowered by the Spirit to be witnesses everywhere (Acts 1:8). The Table—our community—must be a place of healing, transformation, and release, sending us to invite others. Through the parable of the banquet (Luke 14:15–23), we are reminded to extend invitations widely, knowing God desires a full house. Everyone is welcome, as transformation begins at the Table, not perfection.

Ultimately, we look forward to the eternal Table—the wedding feast of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7–9; 21:26–27). Accepting Christ’s invitation ensures our place at this banquet. Will you join us and invite others to be seated at God’s Table?

Love and Blessings

Ps Greg and Amanda. 

Community

Hi Church,

A week seems to turn around very quickly at Grace Church. It starts on Tuesday with the staff gathered, talking, reviewing, praying, planning for the weekends that are coming. Then we begin to implement, make calls, write material, gather necessary resources, interact with other churches and community needs, more praying, more preparing, pastoral caring in house for those in need, mid-week life groups, connecting with those individuals who need encouragement, then before we know it, the large group meetings are happening! World Changes Youth with 40 plus teens going bananas in the Shed, Children gathered for Kingdom Kids, World Changes Youth Sunday, Main Congregation worship and then Preaching, and Prayer ministry and then gathered for Ministry training and discussion with Worship Team after. Then we take a breath and its back into it again.

This is a glimpse of one of our normal weeks at Grace. It’s exciting, it’s rewarding, it’s necessary, and sometimes exhausting and we are always praying that its fruitful for His glory. That’s what it looks like from the staff leadership team as we are helping to create the structure for a dynamic community. We are preparing each week for people to sit at tables where they can taste and see that the Lord is good!

My message last Sunday was the first three points about the truth of community as a value at Grace Church. This Idea of Community is built around the imagery or metaphor of being seated at a table. Not just any table but the “table of the Lord”, where the wine of His presence and the meal/meat of Discipleship are served. Here is a summary of my message:

At the heart of our vision for Community is the understanding that the Table is sacred. When we gather, we are not simply being social; we are participating together in something holy. Scripture reminds us that in sharing the bread and the cup, we are united as one body in Christ, and our allegiance is being formed by what — and who — we partake in (1 Corinthians 10:16–21; 1 Corinthians 11:27–29). The Table calls us to examine our hearts, pursue unity, and honour one another as members of Christ’s body.

The Table also forms the people. Community is not about sameness but oneness — a shared passion for Jesus shaped by love (John 17:20–23). Like living stones, we are being intentionally placed together by God, built into a spiritual house where His presence dwells and is being passionately pursued (1 Peter 2:5; Acts 2:1; Acts 4:24).

Finally, the Table is where transformation sticks. Presence awakens us and discipleship shapes us, but it is shared life — praying, eating, learning, and walking together — that is what forms lasting character (Acts 2:42–47). Transformation does not happen in isolation; it takes root over time as we commit to one another in community.

Points 4 and 5 will complete the message this coming Sunday. But what we have here provokes us to consider why do we gather? Are we here to consume or are we here to contribute to the meal? Do we consider the gathering as something common or something Holy? Are we prepared to just sit near someone at the table or commit to walking with them through life? 

So lets be participators Church. With you together at the table of the Lord.

Love Ps Greg and Amanda

Discipleship

Hi Church,

Blessings and love to you today. It was such a delight on Sunday to shake hands with most people who attended on the exit to Tea and Coffee time. It reminded me just how important is single person who calls Grace Church home. I see it as a privilege and joy to be your Pastor. Please don’t hesitate to connect with me should you have a simple or special need. If I can help I will.

Another great joy was presenting so many young people to Church for all types of different reasons. First our Youth Missions Outreach team, then Induction into Staff leadership for Josiah Hindley and third, saying thank you for his service but sadly saying goodbye to Benjamin Campion as he heads to Newcastle for his new Job. The Holy Spirit was moving and releasing prophetic words as we laid hands on people.

Robert Harrison delivered a great teaching as he tackled the importance of Discipleship as one of our three pillars that upholds our vision. This is a summary from my notes: -

Discipleship is not a single moment but a daily journey of following Jesus. Salvation is the beginning, yet each day we are invited to walk according to the Spirit and not the flesh (Romans 8:1-5). It is a rhythm of surrender—asking ourselves, who we are following today? and then quietly reflecting before God at day’s end, did I follow you today?

This journey rests on firm foundations. Repentance is an ongoing turning toward Jesus, who declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Baptism in water is a joyful, outward expression of our decision to follow Him (Matthew 28:19). We are also called to be filled with the Holy Spirit, receiving power to live boldly and faithfully as witnesses (Acts 1:8).

As disciples, we grow by knowing the heart and priorities of Jesus—through Scripture, prayer, and fellowship. God’s Word shapes us and gives life (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Matthew 4:4). True discipleship transforms how we live: becoming doers of the Word, servants of others, and people who reflect Christ through the fruit of the Spirit. Salvation is only the beginning; becoming a true disciple is the lifelong call.

As a follow on for discipleship, we will have special evenings of teaching provided by experienced bible teacher Randolph Kubicek. This will begin on Sunday 1 March and go for 6 Sundays, it will cover, Total Renewal of the Spirit, Soul, and Body as a new creation person in Christ, “that we may have the heart of Jesus to seek and worship the Father in Spirit and Truth.”  If you desire to grow, then don’t miss this exciting teaching series at Grace from 5:00pm for 1 hour.

Let’s Press in to Push out with Faith, Hope and Love to a world that needs it.

Blessings

Ps Greg and Amanda

New series

Hi Church, 

I pray you are thriving as you Press In to the Lord and then Push Out into your world with love, courage and grace. Last weekend all our ministries came back into action for 2026, and it was a great start! Many reported eager participation from midweek Life Groups, World Changers Youth on Friday night with over 45 young people present, to Mens Ministry on Saturday with over 30 men laughing their way through Ps Kerry Medway Funeral bloopers, to Sunday morning World Changers with new leader Ell Harris helping to disciple young teens. Thank you to all the volunteers that make it possible.

Amanda and I were away having a celebration time for Amanda’s birthday in Sydney and helping Chantelle settle into residential college life. Whilst there, we were able to congratulate Lighthouse Church Crows Nest on their 25thAnniversary with Church Planters and dear friends Ps Paul and Monica Zanardo. It was a wonderful time to give thanks for the faithfulness of God. 

Worship and Word on Sunday at Grace brought encounter and encouragement and many were led into a deeper sense of the Lord’s presence and redeeming work in their lives. Thank you to Exec Leader Paul Betenson for sharing Gods truth around the need and desire for the Presence of the Lord. This is the first message in our, “What supports the Vision of Grace Church?” series, of Presence, Discipleship and Community.   Paul reminded us that drawing close to Jesus is essential to hearing his voice as He directs us in our daily walk to bear His image to the world. 

This week another Exec Member and teacher Robert Harrison will be sharing on being a Disciple of Jesus and being intentional in following Him, not just a Christian Culture. We also welcome a new Staff member Josiah Hindley. Josiah has been a volunteer with World Changers for the past two years and is well loved by the Youth. Josiah will replace Benjamin Campion as assistant Youth Leader.  Benjamin will sadly leave us to take on an apprenticeship in Newcastle starting late February.  We thank Benjamin for his many years of faithful and dedicated service from Kingdom Kids leadership to WC and Young Adults. God bless you Ben. 

Make sure this week you register and pay for Family Getaway. Don’t miss this special time to go deeper in relationship with Jesus and with each other. Our Guest speakers have a speciality in pursuing the presence of the Lord and then reaching out significantly to their community and we will learn much from them. If you can’t stay overnight, come for Saturday from 9:00 am and stay till 7:00pm. Day visitors will enjoy two ministry sessions and a meal together with all the campers at 6:00pm. So make sure you stay all day.  Leaving at 7:00pm will see you traveling mostly in daylight and safely back to Port Macquarie. 

This year we need to bolster our events and hospitality teams, and we are looking for new leaders to take on the responsibility of these vital ministries in Grace. If you have an interest in these areas which will be used for evangelism, then please contact Amanda in the office ASAP. 

This year there will be many opportunities to reach out, and I encourage you Church to stay connected and be ready to share the hope that you have freely received from the Lord. 

With You, 

Ps Greg and Amanda

Press in to Push out

Hi Church 

Well its good to be back from holidays and with a strong direction into 2026.  My message on Sunday conveyed the necessity of being a community of transforming Grace that bears the image of Jesus not just to each other but to the world around us. 

This is a brief summary of what I conveyed. 

2026 Press In to Push Out

On Vision Sunday, we are reminded that the future of Grace Church is not built on clever programs or catchy slogans, but on a deeper pursuit of Jesus, year after year, faithful to his calling on us. In 2026, the Lord is inviting us into a clear emphasis—“Press In to Push Out”.

Pressing in is a decision. It’s a refusal to drift, coast, or live on spiritual autopilot. Drawing from Philippians 3, we were challenged to forget what lies behind and to press on toward all that Jesus still has for us. This is not about more activity, but greater intentionality—renewed hunger for God’s presence, obedience in the quiet places, and a willingness to pursue Him with our whole heart.

But pressing in is never meant to end with us. As we draw closer to Jesus, His heart for people inevitably pulls us outward toward them. Jesus was always moved by compassion, and the pattern of the Kingdom remains the same today: called to Him, filled with His power, and sent out. Freely we have received, and freely we are called to give.

In 2026, pushing out will look like conversations, invitations, prayer, and courage. It will look like stepping into our community with faith, believing that as we pray for the labourers to harvest souls, we will also be the answer to that prayer. As we press in together and push out together we will create a momentum that will turn into a movement, and God will move through Grace Church in ways that are deeper and wider than ever before. Do you accept the challenge?

I’m excited for this year church as we Push Out. I’m excited for the lives that will be changed for eternity. We are having a family getaway retreat to Press in to God and with each other and then we are pushing Out. We are sending youth to the Philippines to reach teenagers there. I’m going to Nepal with Ross Nancarrow to train Pastors of Church planting there. We are having a Men’s Outreach BBQ night with 1988 Gold medallist Olympian, Duncan Armstrong. We are running ALPHA in term 2 that will explain the truth of Christianity to those seeking. We are going to find ways to join the community and share light into darkness.

Church, let’s not wait for something to happen, let’s make it happen, time is short and today is the day of salvation. 

With you in the journey Church. 

Ps Greg and Amanda 

Summer Reset 2026

Hi Church, 

I pray you have been well rested from the holiday season. Well, here we are in another year and 2026 is well and truly upon us.  I am excited for all that God has been doing and what he wants to do though us into the coming year. 

During our Summer reset series, we were challenged each week to consider 4 different approaches to beginning the year well.  

Restart. Presented By Me

Restart the race marked out for us, free ourselves of sins entanglements and get ready to run to take hold all the God has for us. This came with an encouragement to forget the past mistakes, because a repented heart means none are disqualified from restarting.  

Refill. Presented by Kerry Medway

We need to have an alcoholic type of thirst for the Holy Spirit and seek him daily for our fill of His Holy Spirit. We all need to come to the living water and drink deeply daily in His presence.

Renew. Presented by Randolph Kubicek

Renew our mind from the ways of the world and retrain ourselves in an alignment of belief, confession and action. The key to this was explained as extended and practiced hours in Gods word. Reading, Speaking, Praying God’s word. 

Repair. Presented by Suzie Wood

God has called each one of us but life has a way of distracting and discouraging us so we need to repair the vision God has given for our life. To do that we Recognise what needs to be fixed and resolute to fix it with repentance. This will mean obedience to His word. Stepping out in faith with a prophetic act and Embrace God so that his life abides in us and flows through us. Suzie calls this her ROPE method. 

A Big thank you to all who presented over the Month of January it was inspiring. Also, a big thank you to those who were able to turn up early and supply Coffee and treats for the early fellowship starts at Grace. I pray everyone enjoyed the short format and extra time to gather and connect. 

Going forward, we will return to our normal start time and finish time for February but feel free to come early with your own coffee and sit on the park benches and enjoy a breakfast catchup with friends before the service. 

There are many good things to get connected to over the coming weeks such as, Men’s breakfast 7th Feb, various Life groups, Women’s groups, Youth and Kingdom Kids, and don’t forget Family Getaway with registrations to be done by 15th of February. So let's get ready to be participants into a dynamic and fruitful year ahead. 

The way all this will hold together is through the power of Prayer. We intend to keep pursuing God in prayer every Tuesday, Monthly in the Prayer advance and other initiatives as presented. So keep praying Church. 

Looking forward to all that God has for us in 2026. 

Love Ps Greg and Amanda.

Jesus the Light of the World

Hi Church,

We have arrived at the end of 2025 in the time of celebration but also grief as we remember all those who lost their life due to terrorism just over a week ago. Whilst this is tragic in every way, we must not let evil have the final say. Our celebration of Jesus incarnation into this dark world with His glorious light is a necessity so that we are reminded that without Him we have very little to celebrate.

My preaching on Sunday took up the theme of Light and Darkness and how Jesus is light personified breaking into sins and deaths dark hold over the world. Light and dark were the themes spoken about at the Bondi beach memorial for the victims of the shooting. It was a very moving time as each person’s name was read out and their primary legacy was used as an example of light for everyone to follow. May we remember them.

However, it is likely after some time that many will forget as life has a way of moving us rapidly away from significant moments. Who then will be our light to follow? Well, it’s here that we must come back to the Messiah, Emmanuel, God with us. His every word and deed lit a path for us to follow and emulate. His written word is a lamp unto our feet. His Spirit lives in each one of us lighting up a path for us to walk with confidence. But we must see it and choose daily to walk in it not just know about it.

This Christmas why not light some candles in your home to remind you of those that were taken by evil and remember them, remember their light. Also light a candle to remind you of the light Jesus brings you and how he has transformed you out of darkness into his beautiful, magnificent kingdom of light for all eternity. Then light a candle to remind you that you carry His light into this dark world.

From my family to yours we pray that you enjoy a wonderful Christmas season and a Joyful New Year.

Love Ps Greg and Amanda

Carols in the Carpark

HI Church,

I have a lot of mixed feelings today writing this e-news. A lot can happen in 36 hours.

I went into the weekend receiving some wonderful news of My Son Caleb announcing his engagement to his long-time girlfriend, Julia. Anyone who has met them will know what a wonderful loving and godly couple they are. I received that news, just after one of my longest friends announced his daughter getting engaged, joy was overflowing. Love was truly in the air in the first half of the weekend.

Then Our wonderful Grace Church Team of volunteers pulled off a magnificent car park Carols event, which was of the highest quality, visually and audibly, with generous food supply and cool drinks and barista coffee and the best donuts I have ever tasted. (Thank you, Wes). Thank you to all who worked so hard to make it happen.

Then travelling home after we packed up, we were shocked to hear the news of the most heinous crime committed. Two gunmen, a father and son, slaughtering 16 everyday ordinary Australians having a lovely time on Bondi Beach and it appears its racially and religiously motivated, as most of the victims have Jewish heritage. This is outrageous that hatred born in another country is brought into our suburbs as an attempt to rip apart the tolerant and easy going and normally safe fabric of our society.

On one hand I want to celebrate love and on the other I grieve the loss of so many innocent lives and I want to be angry at those who seek to destroy us.

For us Christians, Christmas is a time to announce the good news that a saviour was born for all men. The Jewish Australians were celebrating Hanukkah, ä festival of light, where a candle is lit everyday over an eight-day period. It’s a reminder of the second rededication of the Second temple in Jerusalem, after it was desecrated by Syrian/Greek invaders in approx. 165 BC. It’s a time for Jewish families to gather, celebrate resilience and bring light into the darkness. Sounds like something worth celebrating.

If there was ever a race upon the earth that needed resilience its the Jews, with so many against them. So what should we do? We need to not become haters like that murderous father and son. Rather we need to be light bearers and Goodnews sharers. And remain celebraters of Love rather than hate. We need to take every opportunity to do good to all, and to love our enemies and demonstrate the more excellent way of love.

It would appear that the hero of the day, who was also shot, was a man of Muslim background preventing further Jewish bloodshed. Not all people of the same faith are the same. All people of all backgrounds will feel the betrayal of the few against the many today.

So lets pray for our State, Our Country, for our leaders, for God’s grace and mercy to permeate into every level of authority and society so that His love and His peace which passes all understanding, will rule and reign. Let’s pray for love to have victory over hate. Let’s pray for our Australians of Jewish faith and heritage, that they will be protected and feel the love and acceptance of their nation, rather than the hate of those who seek to tear us all apart. Pray there will not be retribution from others against Muslims because they dress different or stand out in the crowd.

At the end of the day Jesus is the answer for our world’s troubles, pray all will turn to Him.

The Peace of the Lord be with you all.

Ps Greg and Amanda.

Removing Resistance

Hi Grace family,

We are into the Christmas season now and days are filled with organising and planning and making ready for all the festivities ahead. Somehow amid this we need to be aware of the people around us so as to not just walk on by, drive on by, or look on by, without connecting intentionally to the people that matter in our lives and the ones that God brings into our lives.

Its also very easy at this time to start saying no! Don’t bother me, I don’t want to be involved in anything else. But be careful as to not block God’s plan and purpose. I posed a challenge to everyone in my message on Sunday.  What plan is poised on your permission and what is required to remove your resistance?

The Scriptures show many examples of simple faith and trust in God regardless of the cost and regardless of the likely opposition. The best example of this is Mary the mother of Jesus, who when faced with a lot of unknows but a big promise and a big request, her default position was, “Let it be according to your word.”  Or in other words YES count me in.  I’m willing.

Such surrender without resistance brought the saviour of the world into existence. What could your simple Yes to the plan and purpose of God do for the people in your world. Maybe a box of mangoes given to a cranky neighbour just may mellow their heart to the gospel. Maybe a prayer meeting started in your workplace could change the whole culture and save your job and others.

Let’s be ready to act and let our Yes be a loud Yes! Just like Mary.

I’m excited for this weekend coming Carols in the Carpark 2025. A simple family time in our grounds to celebrate the birth of Jesus and reach out to our local community.  Invite a friend, bring your camp chair and mozzie repellent. Park in Coles car park to leave spaces on site. And  please pray and please help as able.

Now thinking about the end of the year. The very last Sunday 2025, the 28th of December,  this is Thanksgiving Sunday. This is when you as a church speak up about the goodness of God and testify how he has impacted your life or your family during 2025. So have a short testimony ready and together we will finish 2025 with great gratitude.

See you there!

Christmas blessings love from Pastor Greg and Amanda.

The Prophecy before the Silence

Hi Church Family,

We have just recently returned from a visit to our son, Peter and his precious family in Townsville, QLD. Our 13-month-old granddaughter Esther has grown up from when we last held her and clearly, she is not a baby anymore. As we journey together in our faith, it’s clear that true growth in God goes far beyond simply growing older or turning up on Sundays. Maturity in Christ is a conscious step – it’s about taking responsibility for our lives, wholeheartedly submitting ourselves to Jesus, and developing a real hunger for His word and for time spent in prayer. When we do this, the Holy Spirit can guide and transform us from the inside out, shaping us to be more like Jesus.

Ps Debbie-Ann last Sunday shared from Malachi 4, reminding us how Israel, despite God’s mercy in bringing them home after exile, fell back into their old immature ways. They neglected true worship, mistreated the vulnerable, and lost sight of God’s standards. The Lord warned them – and warns us – that there’s a day coming, “the Day of the Lord”, when all will be brought to account. It’s a sobering truth: there will be a final reckoning, and our choices will matter.

Spiritual immaturity often whispers, “There’s loads of time, I’ll get serious later.” But maturity says, “I’ll live rightly today. I’ll align my life with Jesus now, and I’ll help others to do the same.” It starts at home – dads turning their hearts towards their children, demonstrating truth to them, and children looking up to their parents, realising that to know God they need to listen to wisdom. Together generationally, we grow as a community, seeking God’s ways and sharing His love.

We experienced something truly special at our final More evening service. As we worshipped and welcomed the Holy Spirit, the sense of God’s presence was so powerful that, for the last ten minutes, we were left in awe – still and silent, feeling the Lord’s closeness. Our prayer, as we step into a new year, is “More, Lord!” May the revival fires continue to burn bright amongst us.

This coming weekend, we’re looking forward to a fantastic celebration, honouring everyone who has served Grace Church so faithfully throughout 2025. Our dinner promises to be a joyful and uplifting event, as we celebrate the hundreds of hours people have poured into our ministries. If you haven’t had a chance to RSVP yet, please do – we would love to see you there!

We carry you all in our prayers and in our hearts. Let’s keep seeking God together and showing His glory in all that we do.

With love,

Ps Greg and Amanda

To listen to the sermon again, click here.

The Firm Foundation

Dear Grace Church,

How good was the gathering on Sunday!?! So.Good. Because God is good.

“Read your Bible pray every day. Pray every day. Pray every day. Read your Bible. Pray every day and you’ll grow grow grow.

Don’t read your Bible and forget to pray. Forget to pray. Forget to pray. Don’t read your Bible and forget to pray and you’ll shrink, shrink, shrink.”

That’s right - Godly wisdom with squats - feel the burn. Challenge accepted!

It’s great to see the multigenerational body of Christ proclaiming Jesus and celebrating life together.

• The interview - fun questions, great answers. The reward of serving in Kingdom Kids. Thanks Tilly, Annette, and Dicky.

• The competition - cool kids vs adults (Did Leroy & Jenny mention an engineering background?). Foundations matter as you build your life. If you want your spiritual house to stand: make sure your foundation is Jesus.

Bree Brown shared a powerful message on foundations and faith and her lived experience of standing firm in faith: walking with Jesus through devastation. Church, be encouraged that God is faithful (Psalm 36:5), our foundation is secure (Isaiah 28:16) and it is our generation’s turn to build with Jesus our Chief Cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20).

Thank you Neve and our youth worship team for leading and seeding new songs in God’s Presence: encouraging us to everyday faith and lives with Jesus at the core.

Thank you Keith and everyone who served on barbecue. Thank you to the barista and hospitality teams, our service hosts, and every heart who saw a need across the day and reached out to fill it. Thank you for your love and faithfulness.

Abba God bless your living Word and Holy Spirit to us and use our lives as lights in this the world in the everyday.

Sunday at 9:30AM we look forward to completing our study of Malachi. Read ahead and see what Holy Spirit highlights for you. Then at 5:00PM you are welcomed in God’s Presence as we worship at More. See you there.

Love & Grace,

Debbie-Ann

The Four Elephants

Dear Grace Church Family,

How blessed are we to be fed by the word of God week after week!

Sunday’s message - Malachi 3 - was filled with God-words to live by. Thank you Paul Betenson. God is clearly tending His vineyard: lifting up, pruning, guiding, providing water and specific nutrients. I speak good ground over every heart that calls Grace Church home. It’s up to each of us to intentionally order our lives according to God’s word. It’s up to God to give the increase.

Jesus said “My house will be called a house of prayer.” If we want God to live among us (and we do) let’s be enthralled by the precious, holy, God conversation that is prayer.

Pray. Pray for the spread of the gospel, for the sick, the oppressed, the grieving, for the lost, for your family, for the city, for the nation, for the nations.

Sunday the 16th is our Family Service! These services are always full of joy and laughter: a great opportunity to see generations of God’s children worshiping together.

Pastors Greg & Amanda are away visiting their grandchild and family. Lots of hugs and photos coming their way I’m sure.

God bless you this week in your work and schools, your life groups, prayer groups, and community groups. In all your activities know that Holy Spirit is at work in you and through you: reaching out to restore the broken.

God bless you abundantly, amazingly, always.

Ps Debbie-Ann Bax

Honour in marriage

Hi Church,

How does God encourage us to honour Him by honouring our marriage? Let’s look at what Malachi 2:13-16 has to say. We’re called to cherish the partner we married in our younger days. Take time to remember why you chose your spouse and let those memories rekindle your love for each other now, even as you grow older together.

Your spouse isn’t meant to be someone you control or dominate, but rather your companion—someone who walks beside you, helps you, and advises you, just like the Holy Spirit does for us. Marriage is a sacred covenant that we enter into with our words, our bodies, and even our very lives. The two become one, joined together in a bond that’s more than just a contract; it’s a promise that God honours and blesses when we keep it.

We’re also called to build godly families together. Children are a blessing from God, and He wants us to raise them in ways that honour Him. But to do that well, we need to look after our own hearts and spirits. The strongest marriages are those where both husband and wife put Jesus first, drawing on His love rather than trying to rely solely on their own strength—which can falter. That’s why it’s so important to guard your heart from anything that might come between you and your spouse.

This subject is far too big to fully cover in just one Sunday morning. I hope today’s message encourages you to dig deeper on your own. I know there are many in the church who have experienced divorce, sometimes for very serious reasons like adultery or domestic violence. This isn’t about judgement or condemnation—it’s about learning how to get it right from the start, so we don’t end up in places we never intended to be.

The good news is that God’s grace is more than enough to help heal broken marriages, to strengthen good ones, and to prepare those who aren’t yet married to enter into it wisely. God delights in marriages that bring Him honour, so let the Holy Spirit guide and embolden you to see things through. And if you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

We’re journeying together as a church. Know that we’re with you.

With love,

Ps Greg and Amanda

I have loved you

Hi Church,

How do we respond when someone says "I have loved you"? It’s a big statement. What we discovered into our launch of the book of Malachi is that it all depends on who is making the statement. If it be a stranger, then we would probably say prove it. If it is our mother or father, we would probably say “I know”. If it’s our spouse we may say with a cheeky smile, “what do you want”? But what if God says it? Are we convinced enough of His love to love Him rightly in return?

The nation of Israel was asked that question by God through the prophet Malachi and He didn’t wait for an answer, rather He gave them the answer. And His answer they didn’t like. Because He said you have shown me dishonour, disrespect and you have profaned My Name, meaning you have disregarded My Name as if it’s nothing, just like you have trampled it into the ground. Wow that’s not good. I mean if anyone we loved dearly like a friend or a parent said that to us, I’m sure we would be deeply upset and want to know how we could change that, fix that or renew the relationship. That’s called humbling ourselves and repenting. But that’s not what Israel was quick to do.

So, what about us? When God the Father says "I have loved you" and shows you the cross are we satisfied with the answer or do we require more. More feelings, more peace, more community, more prosperity, more, more of anything else. Is what He has done through the cross enough for us to surrender all and bow the knee low towards Him and say “I give you my all”. Sadly, we have been conditioned by a society who is always asking for more. Rather than being content in the Spirit to declare "Jesus you are more than enough for me". I pray in age of discontent that we would find our Shalom, our peace, in Him and then worship Him whole heartedly. We can only do this because He chose to love us long before we chose to love Him.

Thank you to everyone who participated in our ministries at Grace Church Port Macquarie over the weekend. The Lord was moving mightily upon the hearts of His people. Let’s continue to make Him our greatest desire.

With love

Ps Greg and Amanda

We Honour God When

What a great week it has been in the life of Grace Church.

It started on the Monday the 13th and each night till Wednesday, we gathered at 5:00pm till 6:00pm and we prayed and we fasted. Sensitising ourselves to the Holy Spirit we then came together and cried out to God for revival, for healing, for deliverance, for salvation.  It truly stirred us to believe God for an outpouring of His Holy Spirit. Thank you for the 30 or so people who turned up each night your input and commitment to prayer makes a massive difference.

I would also like to thank Graeme Kightley for his great commitment to the Samaritans Purse Christmas Box outreach. Over 145 boxes were sent out with funds matching, this is a record for Grace Church. I’m so blown away by the generosity of our church and also a big thank you to Judith Tetley and the Craft ladies who supplied numerous items to fill boxes. 

ON Sunday just gone we had the privilege of having special guest speaker Ps Chad Mansbridge. Chad brought a great word which is speaking into our theme of How-to Honour God with our whole heart.  Chad took on the first 6 chapters of Ezra and what a great job he did.  I was blown away by the Historical context he placed Ezra and Malachi in. His 5 points of how we honour God are so good and I encourage anyone who missed them to listen to the message with a pen and write them down. I will be continuing the Malachi study this Sunday and going along the similar theme. There is so much good truth to challenge us and I pray we will respond. Because for a revival to come there first must be a confession and repentance of where we have missed the mark in worshipping God and make those corrections.

After Chad finished it was such a joy to pray over Chad and his wife Jaye as they were stepping out to plant a new church in Coffs Harbour.  If you know someone who needs a place to fellowship in Coffs then watch out for the socials for the start up name, place and time.

Believing for great days ahead.

Ps Greg and Amanda

Matters of the Heart

Hi Church, 

Here we are, and we have entered the final quarter of the year. How did that happen? The Mazda TV Advert that says Zoom Zoom is the best description for the way time passes us by.  That’s why it has been so important of late to slow up a bit and consider what is going on in our hearts.  Have we been guarding our heart, and have we been examining our heart, and who has captured our heart? 

Jodie Lindfield shared a great message on Sunday that continued with “Matters of our Heart”. She particularly looked at two main scriptures, the first Luke 4:18 where Jesus described His mission as setting at liberty those who are oppressed. Then she linked it with a practical demonstration that Jesus gave in the parable of the Prodigal son in Luke 15:11-19. 

Here Jodie demonstrated that the prodigal built up many strongholds in his heart and thus received many heart wounds, because he chose to believe lies and give in to the temptations of the Devil. 

The question is what overcomes these wounds? Well, in short, it’s the Love of God. In Hebrew God’s love is an action love that is full of compassion, kindness and is connected to His covenant promise to be with us.  We see this on display through the story of the Prodigal son. The Father doesn’t wait until the son is clean and washed up and contrite before accepting him. He runs to the son before he gets home and then showers gifts on him that speak of His great Love and full restoration into family. He gives him a Ring, a Robe, and Sandals. 

Each one of the gifts have significant meaning. In brief, the Robe restores to the heart full relationship, dignity and purity. The Ring restores authority, identity and acceptance, and heals rejection. The Sandals speak of freedom and empowerment, and family provision and purpose. Each of us carries heart wounds that need the healing of the Father. So come home to the cross, lay your wounds down and let The Father bring His healing love to your heart, His ring, His robe and sandals. 

This week we start a new series about setting our house in order. You can prepare by reading the book of Malachi in the Old Testament. As we go deeper into our surrender before the Lord let our love and voice of praise get louder for Him.

Thank you for your generosity, Church. 

In His Love.  

Ps Greg and Amanda 

Guard your heart

Hi Church,

Port Macquarie turned on a beautiful long weekend for the weather, and many took the opportunity for a getaway. But those who were with us were greatly encouraged by the worship and the word and the food. It’s always good to have a snag sandwich at the end of Church. Thank you to all those prepped and made it possible.

A key moment in the service was the testimony time. Wonderful news was shared about relationships between father and son restored, salvation coming to a denying brother, and revelation removing grief and worry about previous negative church teaching. Testimony is so powerful because it prophecies what Jesus can do in us, because of what He did in others. So thank you Lord, I receive those testimonies for my life and my relationships.

The teaching centred around guard your heart, it’s worth it! Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all diligence,  For out of it spring the issues of life.”

From this passage we discover that wisdom flows from father to sons from grace not laws. As David was restored in his heart, he was able to share that wisdom with Solomon who in turn taught his sons. This tells us that our hearts are so important to God. For out of our heart flows everything. So heavenly Father is encouraging us to make sure we know what’s flowing in so that the outflow will be honouring to Him and others. Jesus also speaks into this out of Matt 6:45, “ A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart and evil out of the evil stored up in his heart.”

The way we make sure we are guarding well is to be vigilant just like a shepherd, just like a guard in a prison, or just like a watchman on a wall during a war, we have to be constantly aware. What is going on with my heart? Am I believing lies? Do I know where the enemy is attacking me or lies in wait? Am I believing and living according to God’s way not my way?

To help us to return our wayward heart to Jesus our example of repentance and restoration is King David. Psalm 51 gives us a beautiful example of what it means to ask forgiveness and turn from all sin and be washed as white as snow. I encourage you all to read it this week and let your heart be renewed by the Holy Spirit.

So this coming week we will continue this theme, and I encourage you to prepare your heart before coming to congregation time so that you have something to give rather than hoping to receive.  I’m excited for the future Church. God is moving and we are catching the wind of His Spirit.

Hey, don’t forget prayer and fasting starts next Monday night, 5 till 6 at Grace so let’s get ready to seek the Lord with all our heart.

Love you all

Ps Greg and Amanda

Love and Marriage

Hi Church,

Well love is in the air and that is the season of Spring. I have celebrated two weddings in as many weeks and I conducted one of those over the weekend.  So not only do weddings happen but weddings are remembered. Many wedding anniversaries are celebrated during September. Amanda and I celebrated 31 Years on the 17th. And Jess and Paul are celebrating 10 years. And I spoke to someone just recently who ticked over 60 years. So what makes a good marriage?

On Saturday I spoke to the bridal congregation about Love as we see in 1 Cor 13. There are some 18 instructions as to what Love is in that chapter. And what we come to know is that Love is not a theory, love is not a clever marketing campaign, that is “Love is Love”, but Love is a verb. Love is an action, love is something that is demonstrated rather than pronounced. Yes we all long to hear the words I love you, but it means very little unless its backed up with clear action from the one who gives it, to the one who receives it.  

So Love is Patient, Love is Kind, Love is not selfish, love is not boastful, love serves, love forgives, love supports and love cares. Love is generous and Love always hopes and love never gives up. These are just some of the actions that speaks love. The to top it off Jesus makes an even stronger definition of what love is. He says in John 15:13 No Greater Love than this, that a man lay down his life for His friend. O that just takes love to a whole nother level.

I don’t know if I have ever loved like that, definitely not physically, but in attitude……..mm I think I have a way to go. Yet that is the way, the most excellent way, that God requires Husbands to love their wives and all followers of Jesus to do likewise to those around them.   John 15:12 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

This love is so sacrificial and self less. How can it be done? Only through the empowering of Gods grace in us, His presence, in us.

So how is your love life?  Ps Kerry challenged us with these thoughts again on Sunday morning with his message titled “Seek intimacy with God” .  He led us through the Book of Song of Songs encouraging us to see it as a passionate example of love between man and woman and also between Jesus and His Bride the Church.

During this spring season can I encourage you all church to heat up the passion of love between Husband and Wife. Don’t take it for granted, don’t just say empty words or say no words, back it up with action that speaks true love. And turn up the passion on your love for Jesus. Meet with Him regularly, spend generous amounts of time with Him, sing your praise and speak your thanks, and tell someone about Him. As Jesus said in Rev 2:4, return to your first love. Return to Him.

God bless you Church lets keep pressing in and going deeper in love for Jesus.

Ps Greg and Amanda.

Commissioned by Jesus

Dearest Family,

God is truly amazing. His Presence was so evident on Sunday morning during the worship led by Jane & Neve, in Jess’s Holy Spirit filled service leading, in you the congregation’s faith-filled prayers and praise. Thank you Jess, Sloan, Paul, Suzie, and Angela for releasing the right words at the right time. Thank you church for bringing your hunger. “God is awesome in His sanctuary.” (Psalm 68:35)

On Sunday we looked at being commissioned by and with Jesus. 

Excerpt from Sunday’s message:

“You are the light of the world. You are the salt of the earth. You are evidence that Jesus is alive and Jesus wants his evidence to shine. Every. Single. One. Of. Us… filled with the Holy Spirit, trusting in God. Abandoning everything else. Let it go. Let it go. Let it go. Abandoning everything else except His will, His way, His word, His cause, for His glory, in humility, with love with our arms wide open.”

We need to know God, know His vision for this commission, know the scriptures, and hear what the Spirit is saying so we can declare on earth in time with what God is declaring in heaven and see His power move through earth’s circumstances. 

Finally we were encouraged to make every effort to do our part so we will be productive on mission:

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:5-8 NIV)

Bless you, 

Debbie-Ann

HI Church, Greg here. A big thank you to all who ministered over the weekend. It allowed Amanda and I to attend the wedding of Sam Zanardo in Melbourne, the Son of our dear Friends Ps Paul and Monica Zanardo, who are much loved by this house. It was a very Jesus glorifying time with His presence evident to all.  

So with Weddings in mind please be in prayer for Neve and Aaron this weekend as they enter into their covenant of love with each other. Pray for peace and sunshine, pray for Jesus presence to be felt and His blessing to be known by all and that His favour would rest on Neve and Aaron.

Lets continue to be known as a House of Prayer, Praise and Love.  

God Bless

Ps Greg and Amanda

Mark Chapter 16

HI Church,

O I love it when the body of Christ comes together and there is an anointing on what we do because of corporate belief. This is where the worship and word and prophetic flow interchangeable and powerful. Last Sunday was one of those days. I pray we have more of them. I pray we all come hungry every week to seek God’s face and worship Him passionately.

My Message on Sunday from Mark 16 was about Embracing the Power and Purpose of True Belief.

My three main points were Belief Provokes, Belief Proclaims, Belief is Proven. The following is s summary of that message.

As followers of Christ, our faith is not meant to be a collection of abstract statements or passive agreements. Instead, it is a dynamic and living reality, demonstrated by the transformative power of God at work in and through our lives each and every day.

The heart of faith is more than words—it is seen in changed lives and the natural occurrence of supernatural power. This, as believers, should be part of our daily experience; it is the “bread and butter” of a vibrant Christian walk. If we are not seeing this, we may be missing out on the fullness of what God intends for us and believing less than His promises.

Drawing from Mark 16, we see that belief is never passive. In the Gospel, belief is an active journey that challenges and changes us. It provokes and confronts our doubts and wrong thinking, urges us to proclaim the truth with conviction, and is proven by the evidence of signs and wonders. Mark’s message is a call to respond—not just by admiring Jesus from a distance, but by believing in Him as the risen Lord and living out that belief boldly in every aspect of our lives.

Let us, therefore, embrace a faith that does not merely reside in our heads, but one that overflows into action, power, and proclamation. May we allow God to work through us so that our lives become testimonies of His love and power. Do you believe it? Then let us say “Amen” in word and deed, and pursue a faith that is alive, active, and world-changing.

Let do it Church.

With you to be changed to be like Him.

Ps Greg and Amanda