Tag: god

A World Without Violence – The Hope of God’s Kingdom

~ Rhi

We live in a world where violence is never far from the headlines. International conflicts continue to bring suffering to millions, with communities destroyed and families torn apart by war. Closer to home, organised crime and acts of violence leave many people feeling unsafe. Even in popular culture, violence is often presented as entertainment, with combat sports and aggressive forms of competition attracting growing audiences.

The Bible presents a clear explanation for why the world is in this condition. From its earliest pages, human violence is shown to be something that God doesn’t ignore or accept. Speaking of the world before the Flood, the Bible says “The earth was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence” – Genesis 6:11

Violence had become so widespread that God brought judgement upon that generation, preserving only Noah and his family. The problem was not simply that people were imperfect, but that their actions had created a society characterised by cruelty and harm.

The Bible also tells us that God Himself hates violence: “The LORD tests the righteous, but the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates” (Psalm 11:5). Violence is the very opposite of His character. God’s purpose for the earth is not conflict and suffering, but peace, justice and righteousness.

This is the hope at the heart of the gospel: the coming Kingdom of God on earth. A world where “nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore” (Isaiah 2:4). A kingdom where the causes of suffering will be removed, where people will live in harmony, and where righteousness will fill the earth.

God’s promise is not an escape from the earth, but the restoration of it. The message of the Bible is that peace is coming – through the righteous reign of Jesus Christ as King over the whole world.

Does Everything Change?

~ Rhi

Everything we see around us changes and decays, including ourselves. We see change in all things: from nature and seasons to homes, transport, technology, fashion, government, even modern thinking. It’s interesting to think about the seasons in this regard. Even though they change throughout the year, they always still happen. God’s Word, the Bible, tells us that the seasons won’t fail to keep coming. Genesis chapter 8 verse 22 says, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.”

We are used to seeing change in everything. Even within most churches changes are made to religious doctrine, often under pressure from societal norms. But is this right? Does God or His message change? We should look to the only reliable source we have for an answer – God’s word. In Malachi chapter 3 verse 6 we read these words: “For I am the Lord, I do not change.” In Revelation ch 22 v 18-19 we are told not to add to, or take away from, God’s Word.

Since God does not change over time we can be sure that He will keep all his future promises just as He has fulfilled all past promises.

And God has promised that there is a better time to come, when this world in which we live will be transformed into a perfect world with no more suffering, sin, or even death.

Christadelphians have been meeting together in Gorseinon at 110 Pontardulais Road for 100 years! We’ve had a couple of different buildings on our site and many different faces throughout the years, but neither our hope nor belief has changed. If you are interested in hearing more we’d be very happy to hear from you, and meet you.

Coming soon! Put the dates in your diary for our upcoming Centenary celebrations: Saturday 18th July & Sunday 26th July, God willing

Community has always been a central part of our culture

~ Rhi

In the “Life in the UK” test that immigrants have to pass to become a British citizen, there is a whole section devoted to “Your Role in the Community.” It emphasises the importance of introducing yourself to new neighbours as a key way of integrating into British society. The guidance also encourages new citizens to take an active interest in local life, explaining that strong communities are built on social interactions and connections.

Here in Wales, people have always gathered in shared social spaces. Pubs and churches have long served as natural meeting places. Whether we come together to celebrate, catch up with old friends, or simply to spend time with loved ones, these settings offer us a sense of fellowship. They remind us that communities thrive when people make time to meet face to face and share quality time together.

Fellowship is also a central theme in the Bible. Before the establishment of official buildings, the early disciples met together in each other’s homes to encourage one another in faith. These gatherings were not only about teaching, but also sharing aspects of daily life, enjoying meals together and building friendships. Through open conversation and hospitality, the early believers built strong, caring communities that welcomed others, and spread God’s message through personal relationships as well as preaching to the masses.

At the Gorseinon Christadelphian Hall, we aim to continue that same spirit of community. We are a diverse group of believers of all generations and nationalities: families, couples, singles, OAPs, doctors, housewives, council workers and university students. Despite our differences, we all share the same faith and the same moral values.

Whether you attend a religious service regularly or have not been to one for many years, you will always find a warm welcome at our hall. We invite anyone in the local community to visit us – to learn about God, share a meal, join us in praise, or just find out more – and experience the value of belonging to a truly supportive and friendly community.

Who decides your morals?

~ Rhi

People often argue that everyone should decide for themselves what is right and wrong. History suggests this doesn’t work. When societies define morality without reference to God, standards quickly collapse. The Book of Judges describes this situation with the repeated comment that “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6; 21:25). The result was not freedom, but moral confusion, political disorder, and widespread corruption.

The problem is that humans don’t agree on morals and often get things wrong.

Parents, teachers, leaders, governments and media, all have limits because they are shaped by flawed people. The Bible explains this plainly: everyone falls short. Following the crowd or copying respected figures can never provide a reliable moral compass.

Because human judgment is unreliable, the Bible points to a moral standard outside ourselves. It teaches that God’s character is perfect and unchanging, and that He has revealed what is right and wrong through His Word and through Jesus Christ.

Jesus is unique because He lived a completely sinless life and showed what God’s standards look like in practice. His teaching makes it clear that truth and boundaries are not restrictive, but protective. Just as rules promote safety, God’s commands are meant to help life flourish.

Many today claim there is no absolute truth, but that claim contradicts itself. The Bible teaches that real freedom comes from knowing the truth and living by it. Trusting God and following Jesus – doing what is right – brings stability, purpose, and hope, rather than being pushed around by every new idea.

He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)

January blues?

~ Rhi

You’re not alone! It’s a feeling shared by many at this time of the year. Short, cold, dark days, overspending and broken resolutions can all contribute and lead to feelings of low energy, sadness, and a lack of motivation, especially as we return to normal routines. Recognizing these feelings as a normal response to seasonal changes and practicing a bit of self-compassion can help manage this period; most of us will notice an improvement by Feb/Mar as daylight hours gradually increase.

But what else can we do to help us through this difficult time? We can turn to God for help through prayer and reading his word the Bible. Why not try looking up some of these verses to help you through.

Dealing with winter – try Genesis 8:22:

“While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.”

It gives us confidence that God is in control, that after Winter, Spring will follow, and then Summer, and so on.

Dealing with stress and anxiety – try 1 Peter 5:7:

“…casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”

Isaiah 41:10:

“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

These verses encourage us to give our worries to God in prayer and He will help us.

If you would like some help to lift your mood and look into God’s word more fully, why not visit our YouTube channel or come along in person and join us for a Bible study and discussion.