Center Church Dubai

The gospel ought to be a Christian’s greatest privilege and priority, as evidenced by the life of Paul. He humbled himself to the point of forfeiting his fundamental Christian freedom for the sake of the gospel. His life evidenced that nothing was more important than preaching the gospel and he laboured solely for the reward that God would bestow upon him when he finishes his race. This week Govind Ramachandran preaches ‘Freedom Forfeited for The Gospel’ from 1 Corinthians 9 as we understand what truly motivated Paul to consider preaching the gospel as the most noble task, worthy of every sacrifice.

This week we dwell on the rest of chapter 7 from 1 Corinthians to understand the richness of God’s grace as He calls each of us from our unique life situations to live for his glory. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Preparing for the Wedding’ from 1 Corinthians 7:8-40 as we journey alongside one another like a bride on her mission, compelled by the redeeming love of our groom, Jesus.

As we resume our journey through 1 Corinthians, we dwell on chapter 7 over the next two weeks to understand God’s original design for marriage and also look at our calling in specific life situations. 

While our journeys may be unique, our hope is that God is preparing us for ‘The Wedding’ that he has planned for us. 

Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Preparing for the Wedding’ from 1 Corinthians 7:1-7.

This Easter Sunday, as we remember what it means for us that He is alive, Alex Isac preaches “I Am the Resurrection and the Life” from John ⁠11:17⁠-27, pointing us to Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who has conquered the grave, giving us hope in the midst of grief and loss.

The Bible frequently speaks of "the one who conquers" or "overcomes" or "wins the victory." But what does this phrase mean? And can it be misused? How do we know if this is us? 

Today, Eric Zeller preaches 'Victory in Jesus’fromRevelation 21:5-8 to help us answer these questions and to see from this text how we can have true victory in Jesus, forever.

As we journey here on this earth, in a culture that is licentious, do moral boundaries increasingly feel restrictive? So then, how does a Christian remain pure and joyful when surrounded by these sensual pleasures? This week as we look at how Paul encourages those who struggle with sexual immorality from 1 Corinthians ⁠6:12⁠-20, as Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches 'The Limitless Boundaries of Grace'.

As we continue seeking his face through the letter to the Corinthians, Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches 'Pursuing Holiness in Love' from 1 Corinthians 5:1-8, where we look at Paul’s response to the Corinthian church’s ignorance of a case of ongoing sexual immorality, and understand that church-discipline is part of God’s design for His church to remain faithful and loving.

We live in a time where the lines between right and wrong are increasingly becoming blurred. Similar to the Corinthian church, we may also resort to settling our disputes and grievances by applying worldly principles instead of relying on God's word. Alex Isac preaches ‘A Greater Law, A Higher Call’ from 1 Corinthians 6:1-11, as we reflect on and willingly choose to obey God’s call to suffer even at the cost of forsaking our rights.

The journey of a believer from the old self to the new self is the divine work of God through His very word. Govind Ramachandran preaches on ‘The Cross-over’ from Ephesians ⁠4:17⁠-24, as we understand how this journey starts with a change in man's mind, from being futile in his old self to being righteous and holy for a God - in the new person He has transformed us to be.

During his earthly ministry, Jesus Christ was asked the question about inheriting eternal life on multiple occasions. His answer did more than baffle the questioners; it helped them and us today to understand our deepest need and his grand provision. Pastor Jose Philip preaches ‘Inheriting Eternal Life’ from Luke ⁠10:25⁠-28 as we meditate on this truth that ought to shape our daily living.

This week Ribu Kurien preaches on 'The Kingdom of God & the Church' from 1 Corinthians 4:8-21, about how the people of God are called not just to talk about Christian living but to live holy lives by the power that God gives the people of His Kingdom.

Most of us are affected by others' perception of us. How then can a diverse gathering of sinners walk in unity? Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘The Great Verdict’ from 1 Corinthians 4:1-7, as we strive to understand how gospel-shaped relationships can enable the body to function faithfully.

As we continue to learn from the apostle Paul’s encouragement to the church at Corinth, seeking the profound riches found in the gospel. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches on ‘Church- God’s Glorious Blueprint’ from 1 Corinthians ⁠3:10⁠-21, as we marvel at what it means to be God’s dwelling place.

Carnality plagues many churches today, where the focus moves away from Christ and becomes about the self. Paul draws the church’s attention to the ugly reality of the strife and division carnality causes in the hearts of the people. This week Govind Ramachandran preaches ‘Carnality, The Last Enemy Standing’ from 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 looking to the message of the cross as the only cure.

Alex Isac preaches 'Forming the Christian Mind' from 1 Corinthians 2:6-16 as we consider two contrasting kinds of wisdom; the natural wisdom of the world and the hidden wisdom of God, which he imparts only to those who have the Spirit.

Like many contemporary churches today, the church at Corinth continued in their worldly ways despite having heard the gospel. Paul however reminds them not only of the message of the cross but also encourages them through his life that models that of a crucified messenger. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Carrying the Message and the Cross’ from 1 Cor 2:1-5 as we consider what faithful proclamation must look like.

Ever been part of a celebration where you haven’t understood the invitation, don’t know the reason or even the person who’s inviting you? Well, it’s that time of the year, when an event that is the least understood stirs up a festive mood across the world. Pastor Isaac preaches on ‘An Invitation to the Greatest Celebration’, as we look at an event that results in both personal and universal celebration!

Govind Ramachandran preaches 'Christ, God’s Wisdom Personified!” from 1 Corinthians ⁠1:26⁠-31 as we consider God’s wisdom, antithetical to the world, which He reveals to the weak and foolish who are called by Him, to know Him and make Him known.

The church at Corinth was divided because of their sinful outlook which was shaped by human wisdom. This week we look at how the message of the Cross is God’s wisdom for His church to press on as a faithful minority in a world that ridicules the gospel. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Looking To The Cross at Crossroads’ from 1 Cor ⁠1:10⁠-25 as we look at the one truth that will guide us in our journey as a church through many obstacles.

This week we begin a new series as we seek to study Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth. The church had drifted as they let worldly thoughts prevail over biblical teaching, resulting in a prideful, divided church that was plagued with many sins. As Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Gospel Hope for the Church’ from 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, let us walk together through God’s Word that encourages and warns the church at Corinth that bears a strong resemblance to the church today.

Pastor Jose Philip preaches ’He Still Touches Lives’ from L Luke ⁠8:40⁠-56 as we look into how being found at Jesus’ feet is still how the world will find the hope and help it desperately needs.

Govind Ramachandran preaches 'God, Our Dwelling Place' on Psalm 90, and consider our frailty as Moses, the man of God, lays bare the heart of man and his absolute hopelessness without Christ, who is our strength and our hope.

This week as Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches 'Grace to Overcome Spiritual Decay' from Hebrews ⁠5:10⁠-6:9, as we consider God's stern warning to those who are complacent towards His Word, but His Grace that enables us spiritual maturity unto salvation.

Our guest speaker Pastor Binu Abraham preaches ‘You Can’t Have it Both Ways’ from Genesis 21:8-21 as we consider the stories of Isaac and Ishmael, and remind ourselves of the truth that God needs no help in fulfilling the covenant promises that He has made to His people. We will either trust in Him to be our Savior or we will live trying to be our own savior. - we can’t have it both ways.

Pastor Isaac preaches on 'Our All Satisfying and Sanctifying Treasure from Matthew 6:1-21, as we ponder upon whose praise we seek in our lives and what the true motive is behind our good deeds.

Alex Isac preaches ‘Shepherd of My Soul’ on Psalm 23, as we reflect on and rest our weary souls in the assurance that the care of the Good Shepherd is sufficient for us to live with confidence and security in this troubled world.

For this week and the next, as a church, we will be meditating on two Psalms. Ribu Samuel Kurien preaches 'Blessedness in God's Forgiveness' from Psalm 32 as we look at how it is possible for all people to receive and enjoy the forgiveness that God graciously gives us through Christ Jesus.

As we conclude our short series titled ‘Saved and Shaped by the Gospel’ Alex Isac preaches ‘Christ, Our Role Model’ from Philippians 2:1-11. We consider how we can trust and imitate Jesus’ obedience to the Father, so that our life and doctrine are held together by the ‘upside-down’ effect of the gospel.

As we continue our short series titled ‘Saved and Shaped by the Gospel’, focusing on the ‘inside-out’ aspect of the Gospel’s impact on us. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches 'Overcoming Religious Righteousness' from Matthew 5:13-20, as we tackle the problem of righteousness, navigating through whether our hearts are shaped by a righteousness stemming from religiosity or one that’s modeled by the gospel.

As we continue our series ‘Saved and Shaped by the Gospel'focusing on the forward-back aspect of the Gospel’s impact on us. Ribu Samuel Kurien preaches ‘Christians, Keep Awake!’ from 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, as we look at how Christians are called to live today in light of the hope we have in the imminent return of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ.

As we continue in our short sermon series titled ‘Saved and Shaped by the Gospel’, Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches 'The Riches of God’s Redeeming Grace' from Romans 3:21⁠-26 as we look at how sinners who deserve to be condemned are justified and declared righteous by a holy God.

We begin a short sermon series titled ‘Saved and Shaped by the Gospel’ based on the true meaning of being 'gospel-centered' as we see all of life through the lens of the good news of Jesus.

Govind Ramachandran preaches 'The Desperately Sinful State of Man' from Romans 3:9-12, as we consider how it is only through Christ that sinful hearts which in itself does not seek to understand God, can we be considered righteous and accepted by a Holy God.

As we conclude our 7-part series titled 'From God, To You', Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches on , as we will look at Love that Redeems the Lukewarm from Revelation ⁠3:14⁠-22 how an appetite to blend worldliness with religion is detestable to the Lord. Yet, he draws us to an irresistible fellowship by revealing the richness of his grace that meets our true needs.

As we continue our 7-part series ‘From God, To You’ on Revelation 2-3: Govind Ramachandran preaches ‘The Utterly Faithful Church’ from Revelation 3:7-13, encouraging us to pursue the prize of knowing the lavish love of Christ, as the Philadelphian church did through their faithfulness, utmost obedience and devotion to Him.

As we continue our 7-part series from Revelations 2-3 titled‘From God, To You’,Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches‘True Worth of The Church’ from Revelation 3:1-6, where our Lord exhorts the church of Sardis and His people today to repent from their desire to achieve a reputation for themselves and receive an identity that God gives them.

As we continue our journey through Revelation 2-3 in a 7-part series titled 'From God, To You’. Govind Ramachandran preaches 'Intolerant to the World and Resolute in Christ!’ from Revelation ⁠2:18⁠-29, as we consider Jesus’ message to the church in Thyatira, and also to us today, of keeping false teaching away from the church and turning away from sin even under the worldly pretense of love, tolerance and unity.

As we continue our journey through Revelation 2-3 in a 7-part series titled 'From God, To You’, we visit the church in Pergamum who were commended for their faith despite the pervading worship of Satan around them. Yet, there were some who were enticed by sin who Jesus calls to repent and remain steadfast to his name. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches, ‘Conquerors in a Compromised Culture’ from Revelation ⁠2:12⁠-17, to pursue whole hearted devotion to Christ.

As we continue on our journey through a 7-part series titled 'From God, To You', we study Jesus’ revelation to the church at Smyrna, where our omniscient Lord models the blessings of a suffering church, and commends her for her zeal and single-minded devotion to the Lord. Govind Ramachandran preaches 'A Church Shaped by Suffering' from Revelation 2:8-11. Let us pray that as a church, we are able to learn and apply all that the Lord reveals to us.

This summer, Center Church begins a 7-part series on the revelation of Jesus Christ given by God to encourage churches that were struggling with various sins from Revelation 2-3. We study these letters from Jesus through our series titled 'From God, To You' which have much relevance to our journey as a church. Pastor Isaac Thomas reminds us of our Lord’s command to 'Return To The Love You Had At First' as we look at the letter to the church at Ephesus this week, from Revelation 2:1-7.

Many in Jesus’ day lived under a false assurance of salvation, one that is prevalent among Christians even now. However, Jesus’ description of the kingdom and the way to enter it, is in stark contrast to this popular belief. What then is the kingdom of God actually like and what characterizes its true citizens?
Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Strive to Enter’ from Luke 13:18-30, encouraging us to make sure our calling and election.

Originally aired on Sept 18, 2022

As we witness the numerous atrocities and natural disasters that regularly make headlines, it’s easy to wonder whether they are God’s judgment upon this fallen and sinful world! What hope then do we as Christians have in such a world, and what are we to infer from such incidents?
Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ’True Repentance’ from Luke 13:1-9, as we reflect on God's sternness and his kindness.

In the closing verses of Luke 12, Jesus the Prince of Peace, ironically proclaims that his coming will cause division. What does this mean for his listeners? And for us who have heard and responded to the gospel, what areas of our lives need to be set right in light of all we’ve heard?
Allan Abraham preaches ’Understanding Jesus’ Warnings’ from Luke 12:49-59, as we heed Jesus’ call to realign our lives, conscious of the times we live in.

As those whose hearts treasure the true riches of the Kingdom, we ought to live in eager anticipation of our King’s return. How can we press on with an assurance to hear our Master say ‘good and faithful one’?

Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Awaiting a Good and Faithful God’ from Luke ⁠12:35⁠-48 to see how people that are compelled by the gospel, look forward to the Lord’s return because of who He is and what He has done.

The fear of giving God full control of our resources can leave us battling with anxiety, which can easily cloud our thinking and hinder us from joyfully trusting and obeying God. Aware of this, Jesus exhorts his disciples to not fear the unknown but to find rest and realize our eternal worth in a God who knows us and cares for us. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Living Free of Anxiety’ from Luke 12:22-34, to remind us of God’s deep concern for his little flock who are riddled with the worries of life.

For many the pursuit of a secure future, through the accumulation of wealth dictates many of life’s choices and decisions, leading to a lack of contentment and rest. Although we find abundant warnings in God’s word regarding the deceitful power of money, the pursuit of wealth still remains man’s primary purpose in life! How can we know if this is true in our lives too? Ribu Samuel preaches ‘Being Rich Towards God’ from Luke 12:13-21, reminding us that our lives are not made secure by an abundance of possessions but by being rich toward God.

Hypocrisy is a relatable sin for us as those trying constantly to adapt to different settings. Could this stem from the fear of being judged or rejected by men, when we stand by our convictions? Jesus offers a word of encouragement for his disciples and us, on how our attitudes must be shaped by the Gospel. Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Gospel Boldness’, from Luke 12:1-12, as we together review our fears in light of the assurance and reward we have in Christ.

We know what it means to live life in the fast lane, as we constantly succumb to the need to multi-task whether at school, home, work, or even in ministry. How then should a Christian and a Christ-centered church preserve kingdom priorities in these demanding times, where even our serving often leaves us feeling weary and lacking joy? Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Only One Thing is Needed’ from Luke 10:38-42, reminding us of the critical principle from which stems all joyful serving in the kingdom.

It’s the holiday season! A time of getting away from the routines of work & study, and a much anticipated time of rest & renewal. However, for many of us ‘getting away from it all’ unintentionally ends up becoming a break from our spiritual disciplines too! Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘Living as the Redeemed’ from Luke 17:20-37, to review how our routines and pursuits are redeemed in life’s greater journey toward the coming kingdom of God.

As the crowds witnessed yet another man being freed from demon possession, their responses varied according to their understanding. The Bible reminds us that we are in the midst of an invisible war. What is our response to such realities today? Alex Isac preaches 'The Battle of the Kingdoms’ from Luke 11:14-28, to show us how God's kingdom has been established and how we must live as members of this kingdom.

After Jesus taught his disciples how to pray, he went on to teach them about the importance of not giving up on prayers. Jesus reminds them and us that the one who listens is our father in heaven who delights in answering his children’s prayers. Allan Abraham preaches on ‘Persevering in Prayer’ from Luke 11:5-13, to understand what it means to press on in prayer.

The one thing every Christian knows to do is to pray. However, each person’s form, style and reasons to pray differ. This often stems from what we have been taught or what was passed down to us traditionally. But, what does Jesus teach us about prayer?

Ribu Kurien preaches ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ from Luke 11:1-4, for a deeper & clearer understanding on how God wants us to pray.

Following Jesus is the most joyful aspect for one who trusts and believes in Jesus. Yet, many of us fail to experience the joy in doing so, especially when we face difficult circumstances or when things do not go according to our plans. This happens when we have not truly understood what it means to follow Jesus. Ribu Kurien preaches ‘Following Jesus’ from Luke 9.57-62, to see what it really means to follow Jesus and how we can joyfully respond to the loving call to follow Him.

What changed between Luke 9 & 10? What seems to have finally started to fall in place in their hearts, regarding the power of faith? And, what critical truth is Jesus pointing us to, in this week’s passage? Pastor Isaac Thomas preaches ‘True Joy of a Disciple’ from Luke 10-17-22. As we reflect on the blessed truth that ‘fills’ Jesus with joy, may we too like Jesus joyfully exalt the Father.