Riverlife Messages

Ever had a mountaintop moment with God only to find yourself back in the valley a week later? Yeah, us too.

In this message, Pastor Sam gets real about the challenge of carrying what God does in our intentional seasons into everyday life. Starting with a simple exercise (grab your phone, you'll want to write this one down), we explore how the crowd's dramatic shift from praise to condemnation in just five days mirrors our own spiritual ups and downs.

The desert mothers and fathers understood something crucial: intentionality with God can't just be a...

In this engaging family-friendly message, we discover that humility means choosing to honour others above ourselves—a countercultural idea in a world that tells us to look out for number one. Through interactive moments (including a brilliant dolphin-training illustration!), we learn that God's correction isn't punishment—it's loving guidance that shapes us to become more like Jesus.

The message introduces us to Moses the Strong, a desert father from Ethiopia who transformed from a frightening thief into a humble servant after encountering Christ. His story reminds us that God's correction, received with humility, changes our lives from the...

Ever feel like you're constantly trying to prove yourself? This message is a breath of fresh air. We dive into what true humility actually looks like: not grovelling or self-deprecation, but having a realistic view of ourselves through God's eyes.

The message traces an incredible journey through the Apostle Paul's transformation from a self-assured persecutor to someone who called himself "the foremost of sinners." We see how his growing humility didn't diminish his impact, it amplified it.

At the heart of it all is Jesus, who "though he was in the form of God, did...

Pastor Sam takes us on a journey through what it really means to live wisely in God's kingdom, using the remarkable example of Patrick of Ireland: a bloke who was kidnapped at 16, enslaved for six years, escaped to freedom, and then felt God calling him back to the very place of his captivity to share the gospel. Talk about a call that doesn't make sense on paper!

The message unpacks Jesus's teaching about building your house on the rock versus the sand, but goes deeper: exploring how true wisdom isn't just following a set of rules, but...

We're in the fifth Sunday of Lent, and things are getting real. This message tackles one of the most challenging questions Pontius Pilate ever asked Jesus: "What is truth?" In a world of deep fakes, biased news, and endless uncertainty, how do we find wisdom that actually works?

Drawing from Scripture, we discover there are two types of wisdom on offer - the demonic wisdom of the world (James doesn't mince words, does he?) and the life-giving wisdom that comes from knowing God. The difference? One leads to sandcastles that wash away, the other builds a foundation...

Starting with a relatable story about moving house and attempting minimalist living (spoiler: Facebook Marketplace is a real temptation!), this message dives into the account of the rich young ruler and Jesus' challenging words about wealth and discipleship.

Drawing from the Sermon on the Mount, the message unpacks how Jesus isn't just concerned about our bank accounts, He's after whatever has become our "second master." Whether it's money, relationships, reputation, or the need for control, these things don't just clutter our homes; they clutter our souls and create noise that makes it hard to hear God's voice.<...

Drawing inspiration from the ancient practice of Lent and the wisdom of desert dwellers like Syncletica of Alexandria, this message challenges us to examine what our hearts truly cling to. From Easter chocolate temptations to the constant ping of our phones, we're invited to consider how easily we swap eternal treasures for things that ultimately leave us empty.

Through passages in Matthew and Mark, we discover that Jesus isn't asking us to hate nice things—he's asking us to love him more. The message unpacks the difference between storing up earthly possessions and investing in what truly ma...

Alex kicks things off with a cheeky poll about introverts and extroverts (and those fence-sitting ambiverts who apparently made it onto his "list of things I don't like"). But beneath the banter lies a serious question: have we turned rest and solitude into something reactive rather than proactive?

Drawing from the Desert Fathers, particularly Anthony the Great, who spent 20 years living alone in an abandoned Roman fort, the message explores how biblical solitude isn't about running away from busyness. It's about intentionally creating space where God can strip away our dependencies on the world and reveal what...

Let's be honest, silence can feel a bit awkward, especially when we're the first generation to have the entire world in our pockets via our phones. We recognise the challenge of finding solitude in an age of constant distraction, weak connections, and endless group chats (yes, even the family WhatsApp group!).

Drawing from Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness and Elijah's encounter with God's gentle whisper, Ian unpacks how silence and solitude aren't about escaping the world, they're about being reformed by God so we can re-enter the world on His mission. He shares the beautiful truth that...

Pastor Sam shares honestly about the challenge of staying focused in a world full of distractions. Drawing from Matthew 4 and the example of St. Anthony, one of the Desert Fathers, this message unpacks what it looks like to create "wilderness moments" in our daily lives: those intentional spaces where we can seek God without distraction.

But here's the thing: when we step into the wilderness and God's light starts shining, it also highlights the dark corners we'd rather ignore. The good news? This journey isn't about shame or guilt. It starts and ends with the Father's voice...

We've all been there—thinking "I really should pray more" or "I'd love to serve somewhere"—but somehow never quite getting around to it. Pastor Jo gets real about the gap between our good intentions and actually doing something about them, and spoiler alert: you're not alone in this struggle!

In this third week of the Vision series, Jo unpacks what it truly means to be part of the church (hint: it's not about the building). Using powerful imagery from Matthew 16 and 1 Corinthians 12, he paints a picture of the church as a body where every single person—yes, e...

Ever noticed how trees just seem to have it sorted? They're not rushing about, yet they're constantly growing, providing shade, and bearing fruit. This message unpacks how God invites us to be like those trees—deeply rooted, firmly established, and fruitful in every season. Diving into Psalm 1's picture of the blessed person who delights in God's Word, this isn't about ticking religious boxes; it's about training our attention and affection on Jesus so we're transformed from the inside out.

The message explores three key areas for the year ahead: spiritual renewal (putting down deep roots through pr...

Ever looked out a plane window and suddenly seen the landscape from a completely different perspective? That's the heart of this message as we launch into a new season as a church. Joe shares how God is inviting us into a time of formation and preparation—not passive waiting, but active readiness for what's coming.

Drawing from Isaiah 40:31, the message unpacks four key movements: waiting on the Lord, being renewed in strength, mounting up with wings like eagles, and running without growing weary. It's about trading our limitations for God's limitless energy, getting His perspective on what He...

Ever felt like the church has a bit of a PR problem? Between 'bus ministry' confessions and decreasing trust in institutions, it's fair to say we're navigating some choppy waters. But here's the thing: God's not surprised by any of this, and He's still calling us to be His witnesses.

This message unpacks what a Christlike witness actually looks like—spoiler alert, it's less about street evangelism with a Bible in hand and more about authentically living out Christ's love in everyday moments. Drawing from 1 Peter 2:9-12 and Romans 12:9-21, we discover that being a "chosen race" an...

Ever tried bargaining at a street market? Most of us are pretty ordinary at it (especially if you're anything like Pastor Petrea in Thailand!). But here's the thing—we often bring that same bargaining mindset into our relationship with God, and it's robbing us of the joy that comes from true surrender.

In this seventh instalment of the Faith Habit series, we explore the habit of Generosity, looking at three ways we live with God: bargaining, obedience, and generosity. The Macedonian church shows us what it looks like to give generously even in severe trials, not because th...

Ever noticed how New Year's resolutions tend to fizzle out by week three of January? (Apparently 80% of them do!) The same can happen with our spiritual disciplines unless they take root deep in our souls. This message dives into why community is one faith habit we simply can't afford to skip.

Drawing from Acts 2:42-47, we discover what holy community looked like for the early church—devoted to teaching, fellowship (koinonia), breaking bread, and prayer. Unlike any footy club or social group, Christian community is bound together by the Holy Spirit, transcending our differences and creating something tr...

We're a church that loves one book—but what are we actually doing with it? In this message, we explore the difference between reading Scripture to know Scripture versus reading it to know Jesus. It's a crucial distinction that changes everything.

The average Aussie watches nearly three hours of telly a day (no judgment—this is a safe space!). But what if we invested even a fraction of that time into the practice that actually nourishes our souls? This isn't about guilt-tripping anyone into a rigid Bible-reading schedule. It's about discovering how Scripture serves as a diving boar...

In this episode of our “Faith Habits” series, Pastor Ian Walton invites us into the often-overlooked discipline of solitude, describing it as “spiritual gym” for apprentices of Jesus. Starting from 1 Timothy and Psalm 46:10, he reminds us that while physical training has value, training in godliness has value for all things, both in this life and the life to come. Solitude, he explains, is not loneliness or escapism, but intentional time to be alone with yourself and with God, creating space for him to work deeply in your heart between Sundays.

Ian contrasts biblical solitude with both isolation and tren...

Fasting is not usually the first faith habit people want to pick up, yet Scripture treats it as a normal rhythm in the life of a disciple. In this message, Pastor Sam Bricknell unpacks the spiritual discipline of fasting and shows how it can become a joyful expression of hunger for God rather than just an uncomfortable religious exercise.

Sam begins with a personal story about training for a 25 km trail race during one of the hardest years of his life. As he pushed through hills, pain and his dislike of running, God used the discipline of...

Prayer is often treated as a last resort, a spiritual panic button, or a way to get what we want. In this message in our Faith Habits series, on Prayer, Pastor Jo helps us see prayer the way Jesus does: as the language of relationship, intimacy, and partnership with God.

Beginning with the desire for mentors and trusted voices, we are reminded that there is no one who knows us better than God Himself. From there, we step into Matthew 6 as Jesus dismantles performance‑based prayer and gives us a simple, profound pattern in the Lord’s Pray...

In this first message of the year, Pastor Jo launches a series on “faith habits” by exploring the practice of Sabbath and why it still matters today. Beginning with the experience of New Year busyness and chronic exhaustion, he names the deep longing we all have for moments when “everything is as it should be” and shows how Sabbath is God’s invitation into that kind of rest.

Tracing Sabbath through Scripture, Jo looks at:

This Christmas sermon, Christmas for All: Christmas for Us, invites us to face the reality of our fractured world and our own inner restlessness, using the humorous yet unsettling image of giant summer spiders as a metaphor for the “angry, injured” fears that hide behind the headboard of our souls. From global crises to family tensions and personal struggle, Pastor Jo names the ache for peace that so many of us carry, and our deep sense that we cannot fix it on our own.

From there, the message steps into the Christmas story in Luke 2, where Mary and...

In this Christmas message, “Christmas for All: The People of God,” Pastor Sam Bricknell reflects on how easily the season becomes busy, stressful, and spiritually thin, and how Jesus invites his people into something deeper.

Beginning with a light-hearted confession about his former “Grinch” attitude, Sam shares how personal circumstances and the example of his grandparents have reshaped his view of Christmas. Their open table for those who would otherwise be alone becomes a living picture of what it means to be the family of God, welcoming others into the celebration.

Sam then walks through Luke 2:2...

The message takes us on a journey from the Garden of Eden to the humble manger in Bethlehem, illustrating God's unwavering plan for unity and peace among all people. Amy and Alex delve into the significance of Jesus's birth, not just as a historical event, but as a pivotal moment that continues to impact our lives today. They explore the themes of prophecy, unity, and the unexpected ways God works through history. With references to the Tower of Babel, the call of Abram, and the prophecies of Isaiah, this message is a timely reminder of the true meaning of...

Join us as Pastor Nick Riddel unpacks the rich tapestry of the Christmas narrative, set against the backdrop of a bustling German Christmas and the vibrant streets of Brisbane. Nick reflects on the profound humility and faith of Mary, a young girl from Nazareth, chosen to carry the Messiah. 

Through the lens of Luke 1, we delve into the angel Gabriel's announcement and Mary's courageous response, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord." This message challenges us to consider what we might be willing to lay down to see God's purposes fulfilled in our lives. We are r...

Join us for this message as we dive into the heart of discipleship, exploring what it means to be both a mentor and a mentee in the journey of faith. As we explore this idea, we unpack the biblical model of discipleship through the story of Elijah and Elisha.

In this mesage, Pastor Nate Cutcliffe explores the dynamic duo of Elijah and Elisha, showcasing how their relationship provides a blueprint for discipleship in today's world. Whether you're an Elijah ready to pass on wisdom or an Elisha eager to learn, there's something here for everyone. We also...

In this message, one of our elders, Chris Knott, takes us on a journey from a Sydney café to ancient Philippi, exploring the radical call to humility and servanthood in the Christian life. With a blend of humour and depth, we dive into the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians, discovering how true greatness is found in serving others.

Join us as Chris shares an unexpected encounter in Sydney that sets the stage for a deeper look at the heart of Christian community. Drawing from Philippians 2:1-11, we explore how the early church in Philippi faced challenges o...

In this episode, Pastor Petrea Taylor leads us into the heart of what it means to be a prophetic church. Join us as we explore how prophecy isn't just for the Old Testament prophets but is a vibrant and essential part of modern church life.

Petrea shares her journey of being woken up at 2am to pray for a community she hadn't yet met, illustrating the power of prayer and prophecy in building love and connection. We unpack the idea that prophecy is not about grand declarations but about hearing from God and passing it on to...

In this message, we hear from Director of the Queensland Baptist Movement, Jason Elsmore. Join us as we dive into the heart of Riverlife's journey, celebrating the past and looking forward to a future filled with hope and purpose. Join us as we explore the power of prayer, fasting, and the courage to shine a light on Jesus in an ever-changing world.

Jason begins with a heartfelt tribute to the dedicated team that has supported the church through a season of transition. We then delve into the challenges and opportunities facing the church today, from grappling with...

Join Senior Pastor Jo Leutton with this message as we explore the quirky nature of memory and its connection to living an authentic Christian life. Discover how trusting in God's faithfulness can transform our daily walk and impact future generations.

In this light-hearted yet profound message, we dive into the fascinating world of memory and its role in our spiritual journey. Our host reflects on the amusing quirks of remembering song lyrics and movie quotes, while also grappling with the challenge of recalling names in a growing church community. We explore the idea that our memories are...

In this message, Pastor Aimee Cowan dives into the heart of Christian community and explores how love, inspired by Christ, can transform our lives and those around us. Join us as we unpack the beauty and challenges of living in unity, embracing our unique gifts, and loving others into wholeness.

Grab a cuppa and settle in as we chat about the joys and quirks of being part of a Christian community. The message highlights how technology, while meant to connect us, often leaves us feeling isolated. But fear not! We’re reminded that God’s design for us i...

In this message, we dive into the heart of what it means to be part of a vibrant church community. Join us as we explore how each of us is uniquely gifted to contribute to the body of Christ, and why unity doesn't mean uniformity.

Ever wondered what your role is in the grand tapestry of the church? Senior Pastor Jo Leutton unpacks Ephesians 4:1-16, revealing how God equips us all differently to build up His church. With a touch of humour and a lot of heart, we discuss the importance of humility, trust, and the joy...

In this message, we dive into the concept of church as family, exploring how our spiritual DNA connects us in ways that transcend our earthly lineage. Join us as we unpack the Apostle Paul's prayer for the Ephesians, revealing how God's love and purpose bind us together as one big, diverse family.

Senior Pastor Jo Leutton shares a reflection on what it means to belong to God's family. We explore Ephesians 3, where Paul prays for the church to be strengthened, to comprehend the vastness of Christ's love, and to be filled with the fullness of God. Whether...

In this message, Alex Walker takes us on a journey through the pitfalls of entitlement and convenience, and how they can sneakily edge us away from true lordship under Christ. With a dash of humour and a love for Coca-Cola, Alex challenges us to rethink our daily choices and align them with God's will.

Join us as Alex shares his love for Coca-Cola and convenience store deals, using them as a springboard to discuss the deeper issues of entitlement and convenience in our spiritual lives. Drawing from the story of the Danites in Judges 18, Alex highlights how...

In this message, Ps Sam Bricknell dives into the profound significance of Jesus' death and resurrection, exploring how these pivotal events form the bedrock of Christian faith. Join us as we unravel the intricate connections between ancient traditions and the ultimate sacrifice that changed everything.

As our church embarks on a new season with Pastor Jo at the helm, we reflect on the timeless truths that anchor us. The message takes us on a journey from Genesis to Leviticus, highlighting the sacrificial system and its fulfilment in Christ. We explore the Day of Atonement, where the sins...

In this message, Ps Nick Riddel explores the quest for meaning beyond the everyday grind and how faith can fill the void that wealth and fame cannot. Join us as we delve into the story of four friends who went above and beyond—literally—to bring their paralysed mate to Jesus, breaking through barriers both physical and social.

The message begins by echoing Jim Carrey's sentiment that riches and fame aren't the ultimate answers. We then dive into the Gospel of Mark, where four determined friends defy the odds and a packed house to get their paralysed frie...

In this message, Pastor Graham explores the intriguing concept that "followship eats leadership for breakfast," diving into the power of unity within the church community. With a nod to Father's Day, he reflects on the role of fathers and leaders in creating environments where others can thrive.

Graham takes us on a journey through Psalm 133, where we uncover the beauty and power of unity among God's people. He shares insights from his experience with the transition advisory team, highlighting the importance of discernment and agreement in church leadership. We also delve into the significance of creating space...

In this message, Alex Walker takes us on a journey through the themes of entitlement and convenience, challenging us to reclaim the lordship of Christ in our lives. With a dash of humour and a can of Coke in hand, he explores how our modern-day "guilty pleasures" can sometimes edge Christ off the throne of our hearts.

Alex draws parallels between the ancient Israelites' struggles and our own, using the story of the Danites from Judges 18 to illustrate how entitlement and convenience can lead us astray. He reminds us that while the world encourages us to chase...

In this message, Pastor Sam dives into the heart of what it means to be a blessing to others, inspired by the timeless call from Genesis 12. Join us as we explore how our relationship with God propels us to be a beacon of love and action in our communities.

We kick off with inspiring testimonies from Grace and Noah, who share their experiences of inviting friends to youth and engaging with university students through the Red Frogs ministry. Their stories highlight the transformative power of simply saying "yes" to God's call. Sam then takes us on a...

In this message, Pastor Aimee dives into the heart of community and the divine call to plant ourselves where we are, even if it feels like exile. Join us as we explore how being rooted in our local surroundings can lead to flourishing lives and thriving communities.

Ever felt like you’re living in Babylon when you’d rather be in Brisbane? This message takes you on a journey of discovering the beauty and purpose in being planted right where you are. Aimee shares personal stories of longing for home and the surprising blessings that come from embr...