Ian has been part of the Christ College faculty since 1995. Now, he is the Principal of Christ College and lecturer in New Testament and Greek Exegesis. Prior to this, Ian was the minister of Griffith Presbyterian Church and then served as a missionary with Australian Presbyterian World Mission in Vanuatu. He is married to Jenni, they have four adult children and love being grandparents to their four grandchildren.
Important Contacts
First Aid
Jasmine Lai: 0423 135 352
Benita Ng: 0414 745 941
Event Co-ordinators
Jackie Xiang: 0423 370 682
Crystal Pan: 0433 808 839
Clean Up Duties Schedule
After Saturday Dinner – Terrence’s CG
After Sunday Breakfast – Joe’s CG
After Sunday Lunch – Dan Chu’s CG
Talk 1
Covenant God
Genesis 15
Covenant
Noah – Genesis 6:18 But I will establish my covenant with you …
Eden – Genesis 3:15 I will put hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head and you will strike his heel.
Abram – Genesis 12:1-3 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonours you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Abram’s doubt – Genesis 15
Covenant Sign (Circumcision) – Genesis 17:11
Passover
Temple – 2 Samuel 7
New Covenant – Jeremiah 31:31-14
God’s Spirit – Ezekiel 37
Talk 2
Covenant Community
Acts 2:1-8, 36-47
Jeremiah 31:31 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah”
Ezekiel 37 valley of dry bones
What do we mean by “new” when we talk about the new Covenant?
Ezekiel 36:26-27
And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.
2. What difference does the new covenant make?
Pentecost
Acts 2:4, 8-11 tongues
Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching
Acts 2:42 to the breaking of bread.
Acts 2:39 This promise is to you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.
Gentiles
Children
Baptism
The Lord’s Day
Priesthood
Sacrifice
The People of God
Q&A with Ian Smith
You can submit your questions anytime during the event by heading to the Slido below. You’ll have a chance for your question to be answered during Sunday’s Q&A session with Ian Smith.
Thank you for joining us in gathered worship today! At Covenant, we believe that true hope, joy, meaning, and redemption is found in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we hope that you will be moved towards greater love for Jesus and one another as we pause to praise, pray, and ponder under God’s Word.
The emphasis throughout our Sunday service is that worship is all about God. We gather to worship Him. Our gathered worship is that it is foundationally and fundamentally about God. In our service, we will: worship our Heavenly Father for his miraculous deeds, bear witness to Jesus Christ the Son and the hope he brings through his death and resurrection, be moved to engage with the mission of God through the power of the Holy Spirit as we wait for the return of Christ. All of these activities of worshipping, witnessing, and waiting will be shaped and formed by God’s divine revelation as it is given to us in Holy Scripture.
Our understanding of Scripture, God’s divine action, and theology will shape the flow of our service. Therefore, our worship service is “liturgical” and what you hold before you is our weekly liturgical document. Originating from Greek, this word means, “work of the people”. This means our service is both corporate and communal in nature. We are not individual consumers of a product, but join others in community to participate together in engaging with God. At different points in the service, there will be opportunities to join the liturgy, and we encourage you to enthusiastically participate in these corporate moments of response.
We hope your time with us serves to encourage and fill you with hope and joy.
Call to Worship
Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.
Revelation 15:3-4
Songs of Invitation
Confession of Sin
Gracious God, you take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, you desire that none should perish, you long that all should turn from their evil ways and live.
Have mercy upon us and forgive the sins of all who turn to you this day, forsaking the way of pride and bowing humbly before the cross of Christ, in whose name we pray,
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Regular giving to support our ministry as a gospel partner can be made by direct deposit into our account.
Account Name: Covenant Presbyterian Church
BSB: 032 060
Account: 663 486
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 12
Q: Who is the Redeemer?
A: The only Redeemer is the Lord Jesus Christ.
Community News
Covenant Big Day In 2025 is next week!
BDI is happening next week! Be sure to arrive on time on Saturday 25 October 4pmto kick off the conference. Haven’t registered but still keen to go? Speak with Warren or Kiu Fei and we will do our best to sort you out.
Each week, work happens in the background to ensure that everything is ready for the Sunday service. We are looking for additional helpers to assist with the work. If you are interested to help or would like to know more, please contact Chong or Michelle, or use the feedback form.
Operation Christmas Child 2025We would love for you to participate in Operation Christmas Child 2025!
(i) Find a shoebox at home / ask Robyn if you need one.
(ii) Visit the Operation Christmas child website for tips on how to fill the box with fun and safe gifts.
(iii) Make the shipment donation and get a shipping barcode.
(iv) Bring your filled and labelled shoebox to church on or before October 19.
Operation Christmas Child boxes due Give to Robyn @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
November 2
Covenant prayer corner 8.30am @ Christ College
November 2
Covenant Session meeting 2pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
1 Peter 2:11-3:7 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
Hope That Makes Us Fearless
1 Peter 2:11-3:7
Danny Lam
Two Distinct Titles: God’s Elect, Exiles Scattered
The Call to Submit
1 Peter 2:11-3:6
How Wives can be Fearless in Submission
… hope not in the husband but in God
… what submission is not
Husbands and the Call to be Considerate
The Profound Mystery, Marriage in Eternity
Ephesians 5:31-32
To the husbands, ask yourselves
To the wives, ask yourselves
To the Bride of Christ, ask ourselves
Songs in Response
Apostle’s Creed
I believe in God the Father Almighty Creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended to the dead; On the third day he rose from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father; From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit; the holy catholic [universal] Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen
Benediction
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Thank you for joining us in gathered worship today! At Covenant, we believe that true hope, joy, meaning, and redemption is found in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we hope that you will be moved towards greater love for Jesus and one another as we pause to praise, pray, and ponder under God’s Word.
The emphasis throughout our Sunday service is that worship is all about God. We gather to worship Him. Our gathered worship is that it is foundationally and fundamentally about God. In our service, we will: worship our Heavenly Father for his miraculous deeds, bear witness to Jesus Christ the Son and the hope he brings through his death and resurrection, be moved to engage with the mission of God through the power of the Holy Spirit as we wait for the return of Christ. All of these activities of worshipping, witnessing, and waiting will be shaped and formed by God’s divine revelation as it is given to us in Holy Scripture.
Our understanding of Scripture, God’s divine action, and theology will shape the flow of our service. Therefore, our worship service is “liturgical” and what you hold before you is our weekly liturgical document. Originating from Greek, this word means, “work of the people”. This means our service is both corporate and communal in nature. We are not individual consumers of a product, but join others in community to participate together in engaging with God. At different points in the service, there will be opportunities to join the liturgy, and we encourage you to enthusiastically participate in these corporate moments of response.
We hope your time with us serves to encourage and fill you with hope and joy.
Call to Worship
Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.
Revelation 15:3-4
Songs of Invitation
Confession of Sin
God of grace and truth, in Jesus Christ you came among us as light shining in darkness. We confess that we have not welcomed the light, or trusted the good news to be good. We have closed our eyes to glory in our midst, expecting little, and hoping for less. Forgive our doubt, and renew our hope, so that we may receive the fullness of your grace, and live in the truth of Christ the Lord.
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.
Acts 15:11
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Regular giving to support our ministry as a gospel partner can be made by direct deposit into our account.
Account Name: Covenant Presbyterian Church
BSB: 032 060
Account: 663 486
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 19
Q: Is there any way to escape punishment and be brought back into God’s favor?
A: Yes, God reconciles us to himself by a Redeemer.
Community News
Registrations now open for Covenant Big Day In 2025!
BDI is happening on Saturday 25 October 4pm to late and Sunday 26 October 9am to 3pm. Register now by clicking on this link:
Each week, work happens in the background to ensure that everything is ready for the Sunday service. We are looking for additional helpers to assist with the work. If you are interested to help or would like to know more, please contact Chong or Michelle, or use the feedback form.
Operation Christmas Child 2025
We would love for you to participate in Operation Christmas Child 2025!
(i) Find a shoebox at home / ask Robyn if you need one.
(ii) Visit the Operation Christmas child website for tips on how to fill the box with fun and safe gifts.
(iii) Make the shipment donation and get a shipping barcode.
(iv) Bring your filled and labelled shoebox to church on or before October 19.
Operation Christmas Child boxes due Give to Robyn @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
November 2
Covenant prayer corner 8.30am @ Christ College
November 2
Covenant Session meeting 2pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
Acts 22:30-23:35 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
Truth on Trial
Acts 22:30-23:35
Harry Lam
1. Fighting for the truth invites opposition
2. Fighting for the truth comes with Christ’s support
3. Fighting for the truth is always worth it
Songs in Response
Lord’s Prayer
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and for ever. Amen.
Benediction
Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Thank you for joining us in gathered worship today! At Covenant, we believe that true hope, joy, meaning, and redemption is found in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we hope that you will be moved towards greater love for Jesus and one another as we pause to praise, pray, and ponder under God’s Word.
The emphasis throughout our Sunday service is that worship is all about God. We gather to worship Him. Our gathered worship is that it is foundationally and fundamentally about God. In our service, we will: worship our Heavenly Father for his miraculous deeds, bear witness to Jesus Christ the Son and the hope he brings through his death and resurrection, be moved to engage with the mission of God through the power of the Holy Spirit as we wait for the return of Christ. All of these activities of worshipping, witnessing, and waiting will be shaped and formed by God’s divine revelation as it is given to us in Holy Scripture.
Our understanding of Scripture, God’s divine action, and theology will shape the flow of our service. Therefore, our worship service is “liturgical” and what you hold before you is our weekly liturgical document. Originating from Greek, this word means, “work of the people”. This means our service is both corporate and communal in nature. We are not individual consumers of a product, but join others in community to participate together in engaging with God. At different points in the service, there will be opportunities to join the liturgy, and we encourage you to enthusiastically participate in these corporate moments of response.
We hope your time with us serves to encourage and fill you with hope and joy.
Call to Worship
“Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Romans 11:24-36
Songs of Invitation
Confession of Sin
Almighty God, We confess that we all like sheep have gone astray, we have turned everyone to his own way. We have followed the passions and desires of our own hearts, we have broken you good and just laws, we have left undone those things we ought to have done, and we have done the very things we ought not to have done.
But we plead with you to have mercy upon all who confess their sins, restore those who truly repent, according to your promise declared to us through Jesus. Grant that for Jesus’ sake we may from now on live a godly, righteous and holy life, to the glory of your great name.
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 19
Q: Is there any way to escape punishment and be brought back into God’s favour?
A: Yes, God reconciles us to himself by a Redeemer.
Community News
Registrations now open for Covenant Big Day In 2025!
BDI is happening on Saturday 25 October 4pm to late and Sunday 26 October 9am to 3pm. Register now by clicking on this link:
Sunday school and Extreme teachers/helpers Every parent wants the children and youth of Covenant to come to a saving relationship in Christ and to know God in his word. We need more members of the Covenant family to teach and help at Sunday school and Extreme. Please see Robyn, Gloria, Jayden, Caroline or Dan for more details.
Sunday service administration help
Each week, work happens in the background to ensure that everything is ready for the Sunday service. We are looking for additional helpers to assist with the work. If you are interested to help or would like to know more, please contact Chong or Michelle, or use the feedback form.
Important Dates
October 5
Covenant Prayer Corner 8:30am @ Christ College
October 5
Covenant Session meeting 2pm @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
Daniel 2:17-47 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
Thy Kingdom Come
Daniel 2:17-47
Peter Barnes
Introduction
1. Prophecy is one of the great proofs for the authority of Scripture as the
Word of God. Only the sovereign God could reveal this.
2. We live in times which are discouraging and fearful, and so Christians need to have a rock to stand upon, to be sure of the King and His everlasting kingdom.
1. The Four Kingdoms
The dream concerned a great image (2:31-35). But what does it all
Mean?
1. The gold head represents the Babylonian empire (vv.36-38). It collapsed in
539 B.C.
2. The silver chest and arms represent the Medo-Persian empire (v.39a).
3. The bronze belly and thighs represent the Greek empire (v.39b).
Alexander the Great died in 323 B.C., and his empire broke into four parts.
4. The legs of iron and clay represent the Roman empire (vv.40-43). It appeared to be very strong but was divided between east and west.
2. The Kingdom of Christ
The fifth kingdom is portrayed as a little stone which would become a great
mountain – Dan. 2:34; Psalm 118:22; Matt.21:42-44; 1 Peter 2:6-8. The fifth
kingdom did come during the time of the Roman empire (see Luke 2:1 for
Caesar Augustus, 31 BC-AD 14); and Luke 3:1 for Tiberius, AD 14-37).
(1) This kingdom is divine (v 45)
The stone was cut out of the mountain without hands. It is no human achievement.
(2) This kingdom is world-wide (v 35)
Note Revelation 7:9-10 and 11:15. In 604 B.C. who could have foreseen it?
(3) This kingdom is everlasting (v 44)
So be it, Lord, Thy throne shall never,
Like earth’s proud empires, pass away,
Thy kingdom stands and grows forever,
Till all Thy creatures own Thy sway. – John Ellerton, 1826-93
(4) This kingdom is certain (v.45).
3. Some New Testament Applications
(a) Christ spoke of His mission in terms of repentance as the kingdom of
heaven is near – Matt.4:17;
(b) Christ’s kingdom is not of this world – John 18:36.
(c) We are not to fear – Luke 12:32.
The kingdom is divine, worldwide, everlasting and certain. This puts
everything into a gospel perspective.
Do you know the King?
Are you a member of the kingdom that the King has won?
Songs in Response
Apostle’s Creed
I believe in God the Father Almighty Creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended to the dead; On the third day he rose from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father; From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit; the holy catholic [universal] Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen
Benediction
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders? You stretched out your right hand; the earth swallowed them. You have led in your steadfast love the people whom you have redeemed; you have guided them by your strength to your holy abode.
Exodus 15:11-13
Songs of Invitation
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 16
Q: What is sin?
A: Sin is rejecting or ignoring God in the world he created, not being or doing what he requires in his law.
Community News
Registrations now open for Covenant Big Day In 2025!
BDI is happening on Saturday 25 October 4pm to late and Sunday 26 October 9am to 3pm. Register now by clicking on this link:
Sunday school and Extreme teachers/helpers Every parent wants the children and youth of Covenant to come to a saving relationship in Christ and to know God in his word. We need more members of the Covenant family to teach and help at Sunday school and Extreme. Please see Robyn, Gloria, Jayden, Caroline or Dan for more details.
Sunday service administration help
Each week, work happens in the background to ensure that everything is ready for the Sunday service. We are looking for additional helpers to assist with the work. If you are interested to help or would like to know more, please contact Chong or Michelle, or use the feedback form.
Zachary Lam’s baptism and lunch
Zachary Lam is getting baptised at today’s Sunday service. Danny and Jess will be opening up their home after the service for lunch. Everyone is warmly invited to the baptism as we formally welcome Zachary into our covenant family, as well as to the lunch afterwards (3 Elliott St, North Strathfield).
Important Dates
September 28
Zachary Lam’s baptism During service @ Christ College
October 5
Covenant Session meeting 2pm @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
Ephesians 2:11-22 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
One, Holy, Catholic Church
Ephesians 2:11-22
Cameron Clausing
Confession of Sin
Almighty God, continue to work in us what is pleasing to you. Grant to us the grace to see our sins as you see them, so to grieve over them: then turn our sin into repentance, and let our repentance lead to forgiveness; and teach us to diligently guard all our actions that we may never willingly transgress your laws or disobey your Word, but make it our life’s work to obey you, the joy of our souls to please you, and the purest of all our desires to live with you in your kingdom of grace and glory.
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
All are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:24
Lord’s Supper
Songs in Response
Lord’s Prayer
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and for ever. Amen.
Benediction
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Thank you for joining us in gathered worship today! At Covenant, we believe that true hope, joy, meaning, and redemption is found in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we hope that you will be moved towards greater love for Jesus and one another as we pause to praise, pray, and ponder under God’s Word.
The emphasis throughout our Sunday service is that worship is all about God. We gather to worship Him. Our gathered worship is that it is foundationally and fundamentally about God. In our service, we will: worship our Heavenly Father for his miraculous deeds, bear witness to Jesus Christ the Son and the hope he brings through his death and resurrection, be moved to engage with the mission of God through the power of the Holy Spirit as we wait for the return of Christ. All of these activities of worshipping, witnessing, and waiting will be shaped and formed by God’s divine revelation as it is given to us in Holy Scripture.
Our understanding of Scripture, God’s divine action, and theology will shape the flow of our service. Therefore, our worship service is “liturgical” and what you hold before you is our weekly liturgical document. Originating from Greek, this word means, “work of the people”. This means our service is both corporate and communal in nature. We are not individual consumers of a product, but join others in community to participate together in engaging with God. At different points in the service, there will be opportunities to join the liturgy, and we encourage you to enthusiastically participate in these corporate moments of response.
We hope your time with us serves to encourage and fill you with hope and joy.
Call to Worship
Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.
Psalm 40:5
Songs of Invitation
Confession of Sin
Lord, you are a God who is ready to forgive and of infinite kindness, remove from us all needless and destructive anger. Grant to us a meek, gentle, humble and peaceable spirit that, mindful of our own weakness, we may with greater patience bear with the weaknesses of other; and thinking of ourselves with sober judgement, we may not be provoked when others think poorly of us.
So may we be Christlike in character: patient towards all; easily won over to forgive the wrongs of others; not keeping a record of wrongs, or holding the sins of others against them; that you Lord God may so be gracious toward us.
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.
Ephesians 2:4-5
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 18
Q: Will God allow our disobedience and idolatry to go unpunished?
A: No, God is righteously angry with our sins and will punish them both in this life, and in the life to come.
Community News
Registrations now open for Covenant Big Day In 2025! BDI is happening on Saturday 25 October 4pm to late and Sunday 26 October 9am to 3pm. Register now by clicking on this link: https://www.covenantchurch.com.au/bdi25-rego/
Sunday school and Extreme teachers/helpers Every parent wants the children and youth of Covenant to come to a saving relationship in Christ and to know God in his word. We need more members of the Covenant family to teach and help at Sunday school and Extreme. Please see Robyn, Gloria, Jayden, Caroline or Dan for more details.
Sunday service administration help Each week, work happens in the background to ensure that everything is ready for the Sunday service. We are looking for additional helpers to assist with the work. If you are interested to help or would like to know more, please contact Chong or Michelle, or use the feedback form.
Zachary Lam’s baptism and lunch Zachary Lam will be getting baptised next Sunday, 28 September during the Sunday service. Danny and Jess will be opening up their home after the service for lunch. Everyone is warmly invited to the baptism as we formally welcome Zachary into our covenant family, as well as to the lunch afterwards. More details to come.
Important Dates
September 28
Zachary Lam’s baptism During service @ Christ College
October 5
Covenant Session meeting 2pm @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
Isaiah 1:1-20 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
Judgement and Hope
Isaiah 1:1-20
Dan Shih
God’s frustration
God’s disgust
God’s tenderness
Songs in Response
Apostle’s Creed
I believe in God the Father Almighty Creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended to the dead; On the third day he rose from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father; From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit; the holy catholic [universal] Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen
Benediction
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Thank you for joining us in gathered worship today! At Covenant, we believe that true hope, joy, meaning, and redemption is found in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we hope that you will be moved towards greater love for Jesus and one another as we pause to praise, pray, and ponder under God’s Word.
The emphasis throughout our Sunday service is that worship is all about God. We gather to worship Him. Our gathered worship is that it is foundationally and fundamentally about God. In our service, we will: worship our Heavenly Father for his miraculous deeds, bear witness to Jesus Christ the Son and the hope he brings through his death and resurrection, be moved to engage with the mission of God through the power of the Holy Spirit as we wait for the return of Christ. All of these activities of worshipping, witnessing, and waiting will be shaped and formed by God’s divine revelation as it is given to us in Holy Scripture.
Our understanding of Scripture, God’s divine action, and theology will shape the flow of our service. Therefore, our worship service is “liturgical” and what you hold before you is our weekly liturgical document. Originating from Greek, this word means, “work of the people”. This means our service is both corporate and communal in nature. We are not individual consumers of a product, but join others in community to participate together in engaging with God. At different points in the service, there will be opportunities to join the liturgy, and we encourage you to enthusiastically participate in these corporate moments of response.
We hope your time with us serves to encourage and fill you with hope and joy.
Call to Worship
No one is like you, LORD; you are great, and your name is mighty in power. Who should not fear you, King of the nations? This is your due. Among all the wise leaders of the nations and in all their kingdoms, there is no one like you.
Jeremiah 10:6-7
Songs of Invitation
Confession of Sin
O Gracious God Please forgive us, we pray. Remove the sins that distance us from you and from those we love and care about. Remove our selfishness, our pride, our envy, and our greed. Remove from us our thoughtless acts and words that hurt one another. Remove from us the tendency to hurt others out of revenge and anger. Forgive us please. Create in us a clean heart, O Lord. And renew in us a right spirit.
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:17-18
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 17
Q: What is idolatry?
A: Idolatry is trusting in created things rather than the Creator.
Community News
Covenant Preliminary Vision and Values now available
Session is pleased to release a document setting out the preliminary vision and values that we have been working on for the last two months. Thank you for your patience and prayers. To access the document, click the link below:
Block out your calendars for the following: Saturday 25 October 4pm to late; Sunday 26 October 8am to 3pm. Planning for our Big Day In is underway!
Sunday school and Extreme teachers/helpers Every parent wants the children and youth of Covenant to come to a saving relationship in Christ and to know God in his word. We need more members of the Covenant family to teach and help at Sunday school and Extreme. Please see Robyn, Gloria, Jayden, Caroline or Dan for more details.
Zachary Lam’s baptism and lunch
Zachary Lam will be getting baptised on Sunday, 28 September during the Sunday service. Danny and Jess will be opening up their home after the service for lunch. Everyone is warmly invited to the baptism as we formally welcome Zachary into our covenant family, as well as to the lunch afterwards. More details to come.
Important Dates
September 14
Vision and Values Q&A After service @ Christ College
September 19
Praise & Prayer evening 7:30pm @ La Lune Market, North Strathfield
September 28
Zachary Lam’s baptism During service @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
1 Peter 2 NIV
1 Peter 5:10-11 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
Steadfastness, a Virtue
1 Peter 2, 5:10-11
Warren Chan
Boat with ballast
Steadfastness and BAU
Gospel Truths
Holy purpose
Prestigious status
Delight of God
Applications
Crave
Cultivate
Songs in Response
Lord’s Prayer
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and for ever. Amen.
Benediction
The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Thank you for joining us in gathered worship today! At Covenant, we believe that true hope, joy, meaning, and redemption is found in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we hope that you will be moved towards greater love for Jesus and one another as we pause to praise, pray, and ponder under God’s Word.
The emphasis throughout our Sunday service is that worship is all about God. We gather to worship Him. Our gathered worship is that it is foundationally and fundamentally about God. In our service, we will: worship our Heavenly Father for his miraculous deeds, bear witness to Jesus Christ the Son and the hope he brings through his death and resurrection, be moved to engage with the mission of God through the power of the Holy Spirit as we wait for the return of Christ. All of these activities of worshipping, witnessing, and waiting will be shaped and formed by God’s divine revelation as it is given to us in Holy Scripture.
Our understanding of Scripture, God’s divine action, and theology will shape the flow of our service. Therefore, our worship service is “liturgical” and what you hold before you is our weekly liturgical document. Originating from Greek, this word means, “work of the people”. This means our service is both corporate and communal in nature. We are not individual consumers of a product, but join others in community to participate together in engaging with God. At different points in the service, there will be opportunities to join the liturgy, and we encourage you to enthusiastically participate in these corporate moments of response.
We hope your time with us serves to encourage and fill you with hope and joy.
Call to Worship
Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you.
Isaiah 12:6
Songs of Invitation
Confession of Sin
God of mercy, we confess that we sinned against your majesty in thought, word, and deed, by the things we have done, and by the things we have left undone. We have not loved you with heart, soul, mind, and strength, and we have not loved our neighbour as ourselves. We are truly sorry and humbly repent.
For the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, have mercy on us. Forgive us, renew us, and lead us, so that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your holy name,
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 17
Q: What is idolatry?
A: Idolatry is trusting in created things rather than the Creator.
Community News
Covenant Preliminary Vision and Values now available
Session is pleased to release a document setting out the preliminary vision and values that we have been working on for the last two months. Thank you for your patience and prayers. To access the document, click the link below:
Block out your calendars for the following: Saturday 25 October 4pm to late; Sunday 26 October 8am to 3pm. Planning for our Big Day In is underway!
Sunday school and Extreme teachers/helpers Every parent wants the children and youth of Covenant to come to a saving relationship in Christ and to know God in his word. We need more members of the Covenant family to teach and help at Sunday school and Extreme. Please see Robyn, Gloria, Jayden, Caroline or Dan for more details.
Zachary Lam’s baptism and lunch
Zachary Lam will be getting baptised on Sunday, 28 September during the Sunday service. Danny and Jess will be opening up their home after the service for lunch. Everyone is warmly invited to the baptism as we formally welcome Zachary into our covenant family, as well as to the lunch afterwards. More details to come.
Important Dates
September 7
Covenant prayer corner 8.30am @ Christ College
September 14
Vision and Values Q&A After service @ Christ College
September 19
Praise & Prayer evening 7:30pm @ La Lune Market, North Strathfield
September 28
Zachary Lam’s baptism During service @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
Ezra 6:19-22 NIV
Revelation 7:9-11 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
Celebration
Ezra 6:19-22; Revelation 7:9-11
Mike Yoon
Songs in Response
Apostle’s Creed
I believe in God the Father Almighty Creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended to the dead; On the third day he rose from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father; From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit; the holy catholic [universal] Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen
Benediction
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Thank you for joining us in gathered worship today! At Covenant, we believe that true hope, joy, meaning, and redemption is found in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we hope that you will be moved towards greater love for Jesus and one another as we pause to praise, pray, and ponder under God’s Word.
The emphasis throughout our Sunday service is that worship is all about God. We gather to worship Him. Our gathered worship is that it is foundationally and fundamentally about God. In our service, we will: worship our Heavenly Father for his miraculous deeds, bear witness to Jesus Christ the Son and the hope he brings through his death and resurrection, be moved to engage with the mission of God through the power of the Holy Spirit as we wait for the return of Christ. All of these activities of worshipping, witnessing, and waiting will be shaped and formed by God’s divine revelation as it is given to us in Holy Scripture.
Our understanding of Scripture, God’s divine action, and theology will shape the flow of our service. Therefore, our worship service is “liturgical” and what you hold before you is our weekly liturgical document. Originating from Greek, this word means, “work of the people”. This means our service is both corporate and communal in nature. We are not individual consumers of a product, but join others in community to participate together in engaging with God. At different points in the service, there will be opportunities to join the liturgy, and we encourage you to enthusiastically participate in these corporate moments of response.
We hope your time with us serves to encourage and fill you with hope and joy.
Call to Worship
“Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Romans 11:34-36
Songs of Invitation
Confession of Sin
Lord God, we humbly plead with you to forgive us of our many sins and failures.
Blot them out. Wash away each guilty stain in the blood of Jesus who died for our forgiveness. Remove our sins from us as far as the east is from the west.
And having forgiven us, change us, sanctify us through and through, remove our desire to sin, take from us that spirit of rebellion which is our great weakness, and replace it with a spirit of glad and willing surrender to all your perfect will. In Jesus’ name
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:1-2
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 16
Q: What is sin?
A: Sin is rejecting or ignoring God in the world he created, not being or doing what he requires in his law.
Community News
Covenant Preliminary Vision and Values now available
Session is pleased to release a document setting out the preliminary vision and values that we have been working on for the last two months. Thank you for your patience and prayers. To access the document, click the link below:
Block out your calendars for the following: Saturday 25 October 4pm to late; Sunday 26 October 8am to 3pm. Planning for our Big Day In is underway!
Sunday school and Extreme teachers/helpers Every parent wants the children and youth of Covenant to come to a saving relationship in Christ and to know God in his word. We need more members of the Covenant family to teach and help at Sunday school and Extreme. Please see Robyn, Gloria, Jayden, Caroline or Dan for more details.
Covenant Session summary reports Covenant Session summary reports are available for meetings up to 27 July 2025. Please use this link to access: https://covenantchurch.com.au/aka/sessionsummary
Important Dates
August 31
Mission Talk with Kevin Murray After service @ Christ College
September 7
Covenant prayer corner 8.30am @ Christ College
September 14
Vision and Values Q&A After service @ Christ College
September 19
Praise & Prayer evening Evening (TBD) @ La Lune Market, North Strathfield
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
Acts 2:1-14 NIV
Zechariah 8:1-3 & 20-23 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
God’s Guaranteed Harvest
Acts 2:1-14
Kevin Murray
1. What was God doing at the Pentecost? vv 1-4
2. Why did God assemble this crowd? vv 5-14
3. Will all of God’s purposes be achieved?
Songs in Response
Lord’s Prayer
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
Benediction
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.
Revelation 15:3-4
Songs of Invitation
Congregational Prayer
Offering
Weekly Catechism
New City Catechism for Kids – Question 16
Q: What is sin?
A: Sin is rejecting or ignoring God in the world he created, not being or doing what he requires in his law.
Community News
Covenant Preliminary Vision and Values now available
Session is pleased to release a document setting out the preliminary vision and values that we have been working on for the last two months. Thank you for your patience and prayers. To access the document, click the link below:
Block out your calendars for the following: Saturday 25 October 4pm to late; Sunday 26 October 8am to 3pm. Planning for our Big Day In is underway!
Sunday school and Extreme teachers/helpers Every parent wants the children and youth of Covenant to come to a saving relationship in Christ and to know God in his word. We need more members of the Covenant family to teach and help at Sunday school and Extreme. Please see Robyn, Gloria, Jayden, Caroline or Dan for more details.
Mission Talk with Kevin Murray After service @ Christ College
September 28
Vision and Values Q&A After service @ Christ College
October 25
Big Day In (Day 1) 4pm @ Christ College
October 26
Big Day In (Day 2) 8am to 3pm @ Christ College
Bible Reading
Ephesians 2:11-22 NIV
All: Thanks be to God.
Sermon Outline
One, Holy Church
Ephesians 2:11-22
Cameron Clausing
Confession of Sin
Holy Lord, we have sinned without number, and have been guilty of pride and unbelief, of failure to find your mind in your word, of neglect to seek you in our daily lives. Our transgressions and sins present us with a list of accusations.
But we bless you that they will not stand against me, for all have been laid on Christ. Go on to subdue our corruptions, and grant us grace to live above them. Let not the passions of the flesh nor the lusts of the mind bring our spirit into subjection, but do rule over us in liberty and power.
All: Amen!
Word of Assurance
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
Lord’s Supper
Songs in Response
Apostle’s Creed
I believe in God the Father Almighty Creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended to the dead; On the third day he rose from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father; From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit; the holy catholic [universal] Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen
Benediction
Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith— to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.
