Franklin Baptist Church

Hamish examines challenging biblical passages often used to limit women in church leadership, exploring them in their historical and theological context. This message calls the church to look carefully at Scripture, follow the example of Jesus, and affirm the full participation of women in ministry, leadership, and the life of the church.

Greg Blok reflects on God’s call to mission through the story of Mary’s faithful “yes” and his own experiences in cross-cultural ministry. This message reminds us that following Jesus involves transformation, surrender, and participation in God’s work, wherever He calls us to serve.

Drawing on the story of Zacchaeus, Carol explores how hospitality creates opportunities for transformation. This message encourages us to welcome others into our lives, serve with love, and create spaces where people can encounter Jesus, whether in our homes, workplaces, schools, or communities.

Reflecting on 1 Peter 2, Hamish Baxter explores what it means to be “living stones” continually shaped around Jesus, the Cornerstone. This message challenges us to remain responsive to Christ, grow together as His church, and make room for others to discover the life and hope found in Him.

Hamish Baxter begins Mark’s Gospel by exploring John the Baptist’s call to repentance and Jesus’ arrival as the long-awaited Messiah. This message invites us to turn from self-rule, embrace God’s kingdom, and respond to Jesus’ call to follow Him as the One who brings us back into relationship with God.

Zane Brown reflects on Jesus’ invitation to His first disciples: “Come, follow me.” This message encourages us to rediscover the adventure of following Christ, trusting His leading, and stepping beyond our fears and distractions as we participate in God’s work in the world.

Exploring Mark 2 and 3, Hamish Baxter contrasts religious rule-keeping with the transforming call of Jesus. Through stories of healing, mercy, and radical inclusion, this message challenges us to let Jesus reshape our assumptions and asks the deeply personal question: Will I follow Him wherever He leads?

Hamish Baxter reflects on the Emmaus Road story and the theme of joy in the aftermath of Easter. This message reminds us that even in seasons of confusion, grief, or “Easter Saturday,” Jesus is present with us—and that true joy is often closer than we realise, found in His presence.

Hamish Baxter explores the call to love God and love others through practical acts of service. Drawing from Acts 2, this message invites us to live out our faith in everyday moments—responding to need, showing compassion, and becoming people whose lives visibly reflect the love of Jesus.

Chris Chamberlain shares a powerful message on justice as a core expression of God’s heart. From personal story to global perspective, this sermon calls us to notice injustice, respond with compassion, and live as people who reflect God’s kingdom—bringing hope, restoration, and practical change in the world.

This message explores the global mission of the Church and the invitation to join God’s work of justice and renewal. Reflecting on the Acts 2 movement, we are encouraged to participate in God’s mission—responding to real needs and embracing our role in a worldwide movement of faith and action.

Zane Brown unpacks the biblical theme of kingship, revealing Jesus as the true and perfect King. Tracing God’s sovereignty from creation to Christ, this message invites us to surrender fully to His rule—living as people shaped by His kingdom, reflecting His character, and trusting His authority in every area of life.

Hamish Baxter concludes the Acts 2 series by exploring how we connect other people’s stories with God’s story. This message challenges us to move beyond simply sharing our faith, and instead recognise how God is already at work—inviting others to encounter Jesus in deeper, more personal ways.

Hamish explores the Great Commission and the power of God’s Word as His “love letter” to the world. This message challenges us to make the gospel accessible to all people—living it out, sharing it relationally, and helping others encounter Jesus in ways that are real, clear, and transformative.

Reflecting on Palm Sunday and Peter’s denial, Tim Palmer explores the highs and lows of faith and the grace of Jesus that remains unchanged. This message invites honest reflection as we prepare our hearts for Easter and respond afresh to Christ’s invitation.

In this Easter message, Hamish Baxter invites us to rediscover Christian hope—not as wishful thinking, but as a person. Grounded in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, this sermon speaks to those navigating uncertainty and reminds us that Christ holds us, even in the hardest seasons.

As storms rage around us, this service reflects on how all creation praises God and how we are called to trust Him in every season. Through Scripture, reflection, and communion, we’re invited to listen for God’s voice and live faithfully, even amid uncertainty.

Our youth share stories from Easter Camp—moments of worship, courage, prayer, and encountering God. This celebration highlights how God is moving among young people and invites our whole church to rejoice, give thanks, and continue praying for the seeds planted over Easter.

As we look toward the year 2033, Elijah Brown challenges the global Church to rediscover the power of the Acts 2 community. This message calls us to prayer, mission, generosity, and witness—believing that what God did then, He can do again today.

As we prepare our hearts for Easter, Sandra Bruin reflects on our identity in Christ through Philippians 2:5–11. Secure in who we are in Jesus, we are invited to release what we cling to or strive for, and step into deeper freedom, humility, and joy in our relationships with one another.

With Easter approaching, Hamish Baxter leads us into the practice of praying together—seeking God’s work in us, in our Easter camps, and in our neighbourhoods. Through Scripture, simple prayer frameworks, and community reflection, this sermon invites us to prepare our hearts and partner with God in what He is doing.

It's the final week in our series ‘Made to worship’. Hamish Baxter reflects on Paul and Silas in Acts 16, showing how worship in suffering becomes a powerful witness to God’s Kingdom. This sermon invites us to live under Jesus’ lordship, trusting God in every circumstance, so that our worship shapes, reveals, and transforms the world around us.

Philip Kelsey explores Ephesians 5:1-20 with a focus on : Grace that strengthens us, living in a story greater than our own. We encourage you to read with us as we go through the book of Ephesians.

Greg shares from Ephesians 6:10-20 with a focus on spiritual warfare.

Tim shares on the first week of Advent, and our topic is “Waiting for God to come in aroha (love)”. In preparation, have a read of some of the prophesies in the Old Testament about the coming of the Messiah, like Isaiah 9:6-7, Micah 5:2, etc.

Carol shares on the second week of Advent, and our focus this week is rangimarie (peace). As we journey towards Bethlehem, we recognise that not every part of the journey is easy. There are many road bumps that might come up but we can find peace in Jesus, our Prince of Peace.

We focus on our 4th theme of advent: Joy. One of the most beautiful ways of expressing our Joy is by singing. This time of year, can be busy and stressful for many people. Together we will invite God’s Joy into our journeys towards Christmas, celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Sandra Bruin reflects on the Christmas story, revealing Jesus as the Light of the World who brings peace, hope, and salvation. This sermon traces God’s rescue plan through Scripture and invites us to receive Christ’s light and carry it into a dark and broken world.

Jane Potter reflects on the ultimate gift—Jesus—and what it means to give and receive from God. Through the Christmas story, this sermon invites us to offer our time, trust, and hearts to Christ, and to rest in the grace, peace, and hope He brings.

Carol Dobbe explores how God is present and at work in every season of life. Drawing from Ecclesiastes and Scripture, this sermon invites us to recognize, celebrate, and respond to God’s activity through change, growth, rest, and renewal, trusting Him as we journey through each season.

Carol Dobbe explores the biblical call to celebrate God in every season of life. From Scripture, festivals, and community moments, this sermon invites us to recognise God’s faithfulness, mark life’s milestones, and celebrate together with sincerity, gratitude, and joy as God’s people.

Philip Kelsey invites us to reflect on the seasons of life and discern God’s leading for the year ahead. This sermon encourages intentional listening, spiritual reflection, and trust in God’s timing as we partner with Him through change, growth, and new beginnings.

Carol Dobbe explores how God walks with us through every season of change. Drawing from Ecclesiastes and personal story, this sermon encourages us to trust God’s constancy, stay rooted in Him, and remain open to growth as we transition faithfully through life’s changing seasons.

Hamish Baxter reflects on moments of change and uncertainty, inviting us to listen for the voice of Jesus and take faithful next steps. Drawing on Scripture and personal story, this sermon encourages trust, courage, and unity as we follow Christ into the unknown together.

Greg Blok explores what it means to live eternal life now, not just in the future. Discover how knowing God transforms everyday life, shapes our choices, and invites us into God’s Kingdom today. A challenging and hope‑filled message on discipleship, purpose, and life with Jesus.

We begin a new series ‘Made for Worship’. We will explore the most common posture of worship in the New Testament through three different stories (Matt 14:29-33, Matt 28:16-17, and John 4:23-24).

Hamish Baxter unpacks how serving others is a vital expression of worship. Drawing from Scripture, this message challenges us to live lives shaped by gratitude, humility, and love. Discover how faithful, everyday service reflects our devotion to God and advances His Kingdom.

Lk 2: 36-38, Rom 12:1-2, Heb 12:28-13:5.

Hamish Baxter reflects on the story of the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet, exploring how true worship flows from deep gratitude. This sermon invites us into intentional, embodied, and costly worship—responding to God’s grace with generosity, humility, and wholehearted devotion in every area of life.

Luke 7:36-50 and Mark 12:41-44.

Karen Warner shares the story of the feeding of the 5000, reminding us that Jesus can do amazing things with what little we offer. A message of hope, faith, and trusting God to use our gifts for His purpose in our church and community.

Sandra Bruin explores prayer and fasting, emphasizing deep communion with God and practical ways to connect through spiritual disciplines. Discover how intentional prayer and fasting can restore relationships, guide decisions, and deepen your faith journey.

Penny Day unpacks Galatians 6, teaching how the seeds we sow—spiritually and relationally—shape our lives and community. Learn five practical ways to live out your faith, restore others gently, and persevere in doing good.

Carol Dobbe begins a series in Ephesians, celebrating God’s grace and our place in His family. Discover how you are chosen, redeemed, and empowered by the Spirit, and invited to live for the praise of God’s glory.

Philip Kelsey reflects on Ephesians 2, exploring the gift of grace and God’s workmanship in our lives. Experience the freedom and purpose found in Christ, and be encouraged to live fully alive, rooted in God’s love and plans.

Reti Ah Voa shares a powerful message of restoration from Joel and Isaiah. Learn how God restores what’s been lost, brings healing, and gives a double portion of blessing. Our restoration is for a purpose—to help restore others to Christ.

Zane Brown challenges us to embrace generosity and community, reflecting on biblical principles of giving and inheritance. Discover how repentance, heart motives, and communal living shape a life of cheerful generosity and spiritual abundance.

Josh Temu explores how God’s grace transforms our minds, conscience, and will, drawing from Ephesians 4:17–32. Discover how grace renews our thinking, shapes our actions, and empowers us to love, forgive, and live out God’s will. A practical and inspiring message on living a life changed by grace.

In this special Thanksgiving and Prayer service, our church family gathered to reflect on all that God had done over the past year. We celebrated fun times, Alpha courses, baptisms, missions, and answered prayers—giving thanks for God’s faithfulness and provision. As we looked back on Psalm 145 and shared stories of gratitude, we lifted our prayers in thanksgiving to our mighty God. Together, we remembered that “the Lord is good, and His love endures forever.

In this week’s Renew Together series, we hear the inspiring story of Thomas and Patricia as they share how they embraced God’s call to serve in Tanzania. Drawing from Acts 19 and 20, they reflect on Paul’s example of living among the people he was called to reach—serving with humility, enduring trials, and proclaiming the message of Jesus. Through personal stories of faith, sacrifice, and community, Thomas and Patricia remind us that mission isn’t just about going overseas—it’s about being present, building relationships, and sharing life wherever God places us. Be encouraged to live out your call with faithfulness and courage!

What does it really mean to live like Jesus? In Philippians 2:5–8, Paul calls us to adopt the mindset of Christ—a life marked by humility, sacrifice, and radical obedience. In this message, Grant Harris from Windsor Park Baptist challenges us to move beyond belief into action, to live counterculturally in a world obsessed with self-promotion. Discover how following Jesus means emptying ourselves, serving others, and shining like stars in our communities. The question is: what might God be asking of you today?

In the final week of our Renew Together series, Marian shares her story of stepping into the places God called her—and how those steps brought unexpected blessings. Drawing from Acts 26–28 and Paul’s journey through trials, prison, and shipwreck, we’re reminded that God’s call often leads us beyond our comfort zones, but never beyond His presence. Discover how obedience, perseverance, and trust open doors for God to work in ways we could never imagine. Be inspired to take your next step into the places God is calling you!

What does it mean to live at peace with everyone? In this message, Rachel unpacks Romans 12:18 and reminds us that peace is more than the absence of conflict—it’s an active pursuit of reconciliation, justice, and unity. Through biblical examples like Barnabas and Paul, and honest reflections on our own habits and history, we’re challenged to become people who embody the peace of Christ in our homes, communities, and relationships. Discover how choosing peace can change lives—and even history.

What does it mean to hear God’s voice and share it with others? In this message, Kingsley Morris from Westgate Baptist unpacks the biblical gift of prophecy and its purpose—to strengthen, comfort, and encourage the church. Drawing from Scripture and real-life stories, Kingsley challenges us to guard our hearts, tune in to God’s voice, and step out in faith to bless others. Discover how prophetic ministry flows from a heart aligned with God and why it’s a vital gift for today’s church.

In this week’s Live It Out series, we focus on the power of encouragement—encouragement in mission, in service, and in everyday life. Drawing from Hebrews 10:24–25, Rachel reminds us that we are called to stir one another toward love and good deeds, to meet together, and to build each other up. Through real-life stories and practical steps, discover how your words and actions can inspire hope, strengthen faith, and bring joy to those around you. Let’s live out our faith by being encouragers in a world that desperately needs it!

What does it mean to truly accept one another? In this message, Zane Brown explores Romans 15 and the life of the apostle Paul to show how the gospel calls us to embrace our differences while standing united in Christ. Acceptance is more than tolerance—it’s about welcoming, loving, and living in harmony as the body of Christ. Discover practical ways to live this out: pleasing others for their good, enduring together, being full of goodness, and keeping our eyes on the eternal hope we share. Let’s learn how acceptance strengthens our witness and prepares us for the mission God has given us.

Forgiveness isn’t easy—but it’s essential. In this message, Rachel Roche reminds us that forgiveness is not an option; it’s a choice and a way of life. Drawing from Colossians 3, we explore what it means to forgive as the Lord forgave us, loosening the knots of resentment and bitterness so we can live in freedom and love. As we share communion together, we don’t just remember forgiveness—we receive it. Discover how God’s grace empowers us to forgive and be forgiven, even when it feels impossible.

Our Renew Together takes a slightly different turn this week with Dale Campbell coming to share with us on the theme of 'A Renewal of Oneness'.

Discover the power of words in shaping community and faith. Rachel Roche shares how kind, encouraging speech fosters unity and reflects Christ’s love. Learn how to renounce criticism and embrace harmony in your church and relationships.

Tim Palmer explores the beauty of Pentecost and the call to surrender self-sufficiency. Discover how prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit transforms lives and empowers mission. A message of hope, identity, and divine guidance for every believer.

Zane Brown tackles the challenge of conflict in relationships and church life. Learn biblical principles for healthy communication, resolution, and unity. A practical and heartfelt message on loving others and walking together in grace and truth.

Rachel Roche invites us into a season of renewal and fresh starts. Through Scripture and story, she encourages us to leave behind old habits and embrace God’s transformative work. A message of hope, unity, and spiritual growth.

Explore the heart of mutual submission with Rachel Roche. Learn how humility, honor, and listening shape Christlike leadership and mission. A powerful call to walk together in love, discernment, and reverence for God’s work among us.

Carol Dobbe shares a personal and inspiring message on hearing and responding to God’s call. Through stories, Scripture, and reflection, discover how faith, courage, and obedience lead us into God’s purpose—locally and globally.

What does it mean to follow Jesus when it feels a little crazy? From unexpected journeys to radical obedience, Rachel reflects on the strange, beautiful path of faith—drawing lessons from Joseph, the disciples, and her own story. Tune in for encouragement, laughter, and a challenge to embrace the unexpected with Jesus.

Philip Kelsey speaks on A Labour of Love - No Pain, No Gain.
We all need God’s guidance and transformative power in our lives, and in our Churches, especially in times of pain and struggles. We will reflect on the ways that God has been working on and through us. Have a read of Psalm 19 and John 2:13-22 in preparation.

God has been soooooo good to us and our FBC family. This week we will focus on God’s continual love and support despite our sin, brokenness, complaining, and lack of faith. In all things we need to give thanks. We’ll reflect on the times that God has ‘levelled’ us after we’ve gone our own way. Pre-reading Psalm 107.

Philip shares on "An Unexpected Treasure". We will focus on God’s love for us, and the inner beauty and treasure of each person. We will be challenged and we will be encouraged as we continue our restoration to and through Christ. Pre-reading Gen 1:27, Eph chapter 2 and 4.

Jesus is our ultimate role model, guide, and master. This Sunday we will focus on the importance of mentoring and spiritual guidance. Take a read of these scriptures in preparation: Psalms 119:9-16, Deuteronomy 6, Hebrews 8.

Taste and see that the Lord is good. Psalm 34:8
The young people are giving feedback on Sunday about their experiences at eCamp and Easter Camp. Come and get a taste of what the Jesus has done in our young people's lives.

Sandra shares on Discerning the Voice of God.

Through Christ we can find freedom. Murray Cottle, a Baptist Church Consultant, shares about “Helping to Keep My Church Healthy”.

This week we will see through the eyes and experiences of the mission team, who spent the last two weeks working alongside Kevin and Gillian in Cambodia, that restoration is needed everywhere.

Restoration is needed everywhere - Mission in Thailand with Greg and Rosie Blok (FBC members and missionaries in Thailand).

Today we will focus on the often long term nature of restoration projects and the importance of having a project plan. We will reflect on, and recognise, God’s faithfulness in our lives, especially during tough or confusing times, and how this impacts our ongoing faith journey.

Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Mark 9:2-9

We look at "Which part do you play - finding your fit." with Sandra.

We each have a part to play in God's plan. This Sunday we continue to discover where is our fit. As we do this, we are guided by our church values and our faith in a God who calls us to "act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly." Micah 6:8. While seeking God for our part to play in His plan take a look at this list of places where you could serve.

The past two weeks we have explored that we each have a part to play in God's plan. This week we shift focus and prepare for our new series. Come along for The Great Restoration Project - the Prequel. It all starts with hope in the gospel.

The Great Restoration Project starts today. Over the last ten years there has been an explosion of television shows and series focussed on building and furniture restoration. Shows like The Repair Shop, Fixer Upper, The Block, Flip or Flop all focus on restoring the old and bringing life to the discarded. Join us as we journey towards Easter and learn about the greatest restoration project of all time. We will focus on God’s plan for humankind – a plan for restoration, a plan for new life, a plan that was both unexpected and brilliant.

We look at "Slow Beginnings" with Sandra.

This week we look at "Dark Beginnings". Often we have negative thoughts towards the dark, but let's reframe that!! Have a read of Luke 10:38-42 and Jeremiah 17:7-8 as we prepare our hearts for what God has in store!!

In our second week of ADVENT... PEACE,
Sandra Bruin shares how we can find peace in the midst of the storms we often find ourselves in.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

In our third week of ADVENT... LOVE,
Carol shares about the unconditional love of God that will never run out.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a)

In our fourth week of ADVENT... JOY NOW AND FOREVER.

God is faithful and loving not only in the past, but also in the present and the future. Rachel leads us in reflecting on Mary’s story as she is humbled and filled with joy when she finds out that she will give birth to the Son of the Most High whose Kingdom will never end. The reading is from Luke 1:39-55.
“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant." (Luke 1: 47-48)

Penny shares on Isaiah 9: 2-7, It's Gotta Be Love Love Love.

It is our first week of ADVENT... HOPE!
Zane shares the second part of his story of restoration in his life. He will look into as we grow in our restored life, we find hope in moving forward.

Zane shares with us on the story of restoration in his life. He invites us into the space of what God is doing in our own restored life.

"Journeying together in justice, mercy, and humility." Josh, Carol and Rachel share their insights and reflections with us from the Baptist National Hui.

Rachel focuses on the scripture Jeremiah 17:5-8 Journeying in Faith: Trusting God Along the Way.
This is what the Lord says:

“Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes. They will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives.

7 “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (NIV)

The sermon topic for this week's service is "The Transformative Journey: Becoming Who God Created Us to Be." Romans 12:3-8
This week we continue our journey through Romans and will focus on being honest with ourselves about what we are good at and what we are not.

The sermon topic for this week is "It’s about the Journey: my story, your story, our story." Rachel Roche will continue with us on our journey through Romans 12:1-2.

So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. Romans 12:1-2 (The Message)

The sermon topic for this all-in service is "A Life That Is Good". Carol Dobbe will be drawing our attention to Romans 12:1-2, focusing in on our need to be facing God in order to hear what He is saying to us.

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 (NIV)

Join us as Rachel takes us on a journey of who we are as FBC.

Philip Kelsey will start us off on this new series this Sunday, looking at the pursuit of the Father for the followers of Jesus. How do we respond? How do we connect?

Jane Potter is bringing the message this week, looking at the Holiness of the Father. How do we revere God in our everyday lives? How do we keep His Holiness in front of us?

Sandra Bruin is bringing the message this week, looking at the The Kingdom and the will of God. What does the Bible, more specifically Jesus, teach us about the Kingdom of heaven?

Zane Brown is bringing the message this week, looking at how God's provision in times of need but also in our every day needs.

Ian Moorhouse is bringing the message this week, looking at, not only asking God for forgiveness but also asking Him to search our hearts for any unforgiveness in our lives.

Psalm 100 will be our launch pad for our praise and thanksgiving to God for everything He is and everything He blesses us with.

This Sunday we conclude the series on The Lord's Prayer. Penny Day will bring a sermon on the last portion about temptation, freedom and deliverance.

Join us for an inspiring message from Reti on the meaning of gifts, both as presents and as God-given talents. Drawing from James 1:17, we explore how every good and perfect gift comes from God, who gives generously and unchangingly. Learn how to embrace these blessings and live a life of gratitude.