Rev. Craig Lynn preaches 2 Samuel 9 at evening worship on Sunday 11th May 2025 in First Ards.

In this account from 2 Samuel 9, we see King David reach out in kindness to a forgotten, broken man named Mephibosheth. It’s a picture of grace: covenantal, undeserved and deeply personal. David’s mercy mirrors the greater mercy of God, who seeks out sinners, not for what they offer, but for the sake of His Son. Just as Mephibosheth is lifted from Lo-Debar and seated at the king’s table “like one of the king’s sons,” so too are we, through Christ, welcomed into the household of God. The kindness of God is still seeking, still welcoming and still transforming lives today.

Ricky Ferguson (ruling elder in Ballyhenry Presbyterian Church in the presbytery of North Belfast and Ireland Team Leader for Wycliffe Bible Translators) preaches Isaiah 55 and shares about the work and witness of Wycliffe, one of our mission partners, at morning worship on Sunday 11th May 2025 in First Ards.

What happens when people hear the Word of God in their own language? Lives are changed. Hearts are opened. Nations are reached. In this message, we reflect on Isaiah 55:10–11 and hear powerful stories from the work of Bible translation with Wycliffe, including how one word in one language unlocked the gospel in a whole new way. God’s Word doesn’t return empty. It accomplishes His purpose. And as we partner together, through giving, praying and going, we can be part of that great purpose: that everyone might hear the voice of Jesus in a language they understand.

Rev. Craig Lynn preaches Luke 5:1-11 at morning worship on Sunday 4th May 2025 in First Ards.

Peter thought he knew what he was doing, until Jesus stepped into his boat. This isn’t just a story about fish. It’s about a call that confronts, convicts and transforms. Jesus interrupts Peter’s ordinary day with a command that makes no sense, “let down the nets” and Peter obeys. The result? A miraculous catch, but more than that, a man undone by holiness. Peter falls at Jesus’ knees, not in pride but repentance. And Jesus lifts him. “Don’t be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” It’s a call not to part-time religion but full-time surrender. Peter leaves everything. Will you?