Zion Church

Most of us aren’t good at waiting. But before Jesus sent his disciples out, he told them to stay put until they’d received what the Father had promised. Kayla opens our new series, The Spirit and Mission, in Acts 1:4–8 and Luke 24. She looks at why Jesus wouldn’t let the disciples go until they’d been filled, and what the parable of the ten bridesmaids tells us about the oil. She also explains the “power” Jesus promised: it isn’t something we work up ourselves. It’s God’s Spirit put on us lik...

Has someone ever said something to you, maybe years ago, that you still carry with you today? In this final message of our Life Together series, Kayla Duckett brings two messages together into one. Encouragement is more than a compliment. It means saying what's true about God out loud to someone, right when they need it most. And the way we look after each other is how the world sees what Jesus is like. Drawing from Hebrews 10, Jonathan strengthening David in 1 Samuel 23, and Jesus' prayer fo...

Have you ever felt there's more God has for you, but something is holding you back? In this message from our Life Together series, elder Phil Brown shows us that wherever we are in our faith journey, God has a fresh call for each of us. When we worship, when we're honest about where we're at, and when we let Him deal with what's in the way, we can answer like Isaiah did: "Here I am, send me." Drawing from Isaiah's vision in Isaiah 6 and the rise and fall of King Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26, Phi...

Real hospitality isn't about having a perfect home — it's about having an open heart. In this message from our Life Together series, Brendan Vink shares three challenges for practicing biblical hospitality: share what you have, keep your circle open, and invite someone in. Drawing from Abraham's welcome of three strangers in Genesis 18 and the generosity of the early church in Acts 4, Brendan reminds us that community isn't about being tidy or having it all together — it's about making room f...

When It Goes Wrong — Phil Brown unpacks the difference between harmony and unity, showing that a church can look "in harmony" while avoiding the real work of unity. Drawing on Jesus' teaching in Matthew 18, he walks through how to handle conflict and offence well: going to the person early and humbly, involving witnesses only if needed, and only escalating as a last resort. SERIES Episode One: Better Together - https://youtu.be/GLSl_9T7F8k Episode Two: One Body, Many Parts - https://youtu.be/...

This Father's Day, guest speaker Tim Brown honours the earthly fathers and father figures who lead, protect, and guide us; then turns to Psalm 103 to unpack the character of our perfect Heavenly Father: tender, compassionate, and full of grace and mercy toward His children despite our weakness and brokenness. Tim traces that love through Romans 5 and Ephesians 5, challenging us to imitate the Father by dying to self and living a life of love. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://zionpeopl...

In this message, Josh Duckett explores one of Jesus' most challenging commands: forgiveness. Through Matthew 18's parable of the unforgiving servant, the story of Joseph, and personal testimony, we're reminded that we forgive because we have already been forgiven far more than we could ever repay. Discover what biblical forgiveness really looks like: not excusing wrongdoing, forgetting the past, or ignoring healthy boundaries, but choosing to release the debt, trust God with justice, a...

What does it look like to truly bear with one another in love? In this message, Rochelle Lamborn unpacks Colossians 3:12-14, exploring how our identity as God's chosen and loved people shapes the way we treat others. Rather than striving to earn God's love, we learn to live from it, clothing ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Discover how God's transforming work in us enables us to love others as Christ has loved us and become a powerful witness to the wo...

In this message, Joseph Vink explores the transformative nature of God's love and what it means for Christian community. Drawing from 1 John 4, he highlights how God's love is radically different from the world's understanding of love. God's love meets us in our brokenness, offers grace where judgment is deserved, and calls us to extend that same love to others. FURTHER READING Holiness Here: Searching for God in the Ordinary Events of Everyday Life - ISBN: 1641587458 - Karen Stiller Bo...

What does it mean to be part of God's family? In this message, Arthur explores the biblical picture of the church as the Household of God. Through Ephesians 2, we discover that God's family is multi-generational, intergenerational, and a place where we learn, grow, and become more like our Heavenly Father. As members of God's household, we are called to love, honour, support, and encourage one another while carrying the hope of Christ into the world. Most importantly, we are reminded th...

In this message, Nigel Irwin explores what it means to be part of the Body of Christ through 1 Corinthians 12. Discover three powerful truths about God's design for His Church: You Belong, You Have a Purpose, and We Need One Another. Whether you feel unseen, unsure of your gifting, or disconnected from community, this message will encourage you to embrace your God-given purpose, discover your place in His family, and step confidently into the role He has prepared for you. Together, we reveal ...

In this message, Kayla explores God's design for community and why following Jesus was never meant to be a solo journey. From the Garden of Eden to the early church in Acts, we discover that we were created in the image of a relational God and called into a shared life with others. SERIES Episode One: Better Together - https://youtu.be/GLSl_9T7F8k Episode Two: One Body, Many Parts - https://youtu.be/bEj-Ilqd6XA Episode Three: The Household of God - https://youtu.be/pJjqwMY6YgM Episode F...

In this message, Kayla explores the deeper meaning behind Matariki through a biblical lens, unpacking how this season calls us to remember, give thanks, and look forward with hope. Rather than ignoring culture or embracing it uncritically, we’re invited to discern it through Scripture; learning what to receive, what to refine, and what to leave behind. From Psalms to Genesis to the New Testament, we’re reminded that the stars were never meant to be the source; they are signposts pointing to t...

In this powerful conclusion to The Upside Down Kingdom series, Josh Duckett explores the life-changing invitation into “the secret place”; a quiet, consistent space of connection with God that renews our strength from the inside out. Many of us know what it feels like to be running on empty; busy, serving, doing all the right things, yet still spiritually drained. This message reminds us that true strength doesn’t come from doing more for God, but from being with Him. If you’ve be...

In this powerful message, Kayla Duckett unpacks the final Beatitude in Matthew 5, challenging us to rethink what it truly means to be “blessed” when facing persecution. In a world where discomfort is often mistaken for suffering, this message calls us back to a biblical understanding of persecution - one marked by faithfulness to Jesus, even when it costs us. Through Scripture, real-life stories, and a global perspective, we are reminded that while persecution is real and costly for many beli...

In this message, Joseph unpacks a powerful moment in Mark 11 where Jesus curses the fig tree and clears the temple, revealing a deeper message about fruitfulness, authenticity, and God’s heart for His people. Through vivid context and insight, we’re challenged to reflect on what God truly intended for His house: a place of prayer, openness, and transformation for all people, not something exclusive or obstructive. This message calls us to examine our own lives as “living temples,” ensuring we...

In this powerful message, Nigel unpacks Jesus’ words from Matthew 5:14–16, reminding us that we are not called to try to be the light - we already are the light through Him. Exploring the three key themes - the reality of darkness, the rising of God’s glory, and the ripple effect of a life aligned with Him - we’re invited to stop striving and start positioning ourselves in God’s presence. As we turn toward His light, our lives begin to reflect His love, truth, and power to the world around us...

In this message, Josh Duckett unpacks Jesus’ words from Matthew 5:13 and explores what it truly means to be the salt of the earth. Salt isn’t meant to draw attention to itself, it’s meant to make people thirsty. Through Scripture, stories, and practical examples, we’re reminded that as followers of Jesus we are called to bring flavour, value, and healing into every space we step into. This message challenges us to examine how we show up in our workplaces, relationships, and communities,...

In this message, Rochelle Lamborn continues The Upside Down Kingdom series, exploring three powerful Beatitudes from Matthew 5: mercy, purity of heart, and peacemaking. Through the parables of the Good Samaritan and the Unforgiving Debtor, we’re reminded that Kingdom people reflect God’s character in their relationships. This message challenges us to move beyond appearances and effort, and instead allow Jesus to transform us from the inside out. Mercy that costs us, purity that flows from kno...

What does it look like to live with the power of the Holy Spirit in everyday life? In this Pentecost message, Phil Brown explores the upside‑down kingdom of God through the story of Jesus healing the leper in Luke 5 - a moment where compassion overrides fear, and love crosses social boundaries. “Touching the Untouchable” challenges us to consider who the “untouchables” are in our world today, and how, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can love, serve, and minister without being overco...

What are you really hungry for? In this message from our Upside Down Kingdom series, Kayla explores Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:6—“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” This message unpacks the deep restlessness we all feel, the ways we try to fill it with things that don’t satisfy, and the invitation Jesus offers to experience true fulfillment now. SERIES THE UPSIDE DOWN KINGDOM Episode One: The Way Of Repentance: https://youtu.be/mn1Rbi2WrfI ...

In this message from our Upside Down Kingdom series, Brendan Vink explores Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:5: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Meekness is often misunderstood as weakness, but Jesus shows us that it is actually strength under control. This message will encourage you to slow down, release the need to win every battle, and allow God to grow your character as you live out faith in everyday moments. SERIES THE UPSIDE DOWN KINGDOM Episode One: The Way Of Repenta...

In Week 3 of our Upside Down Kingdom series, Kayla Duckett unpacks one of Jesus’ most confronting Beatitudes: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” This message explores grief in all its forms—personal loss, shame‑wrapped grief, sorrow over sin, and lament for a broken world—and why none of it disqualifies us from God’s presence. Through Scripture, lived experience, and reflections from C.S. Lewis, this message reminds us that grief is not a faith failure but a sign of lo...

What does it truly mean to be poor in spirit? In this message from Matthew 5:1–3, Josh Duckett opens the Beatitudes by exploring humility, dependence on God, and the upside‑down nature of God’s kingdom. Discover how poverty of spirit is not self‑hatred, but honest humility — the doorway to a Spirit‑filled life and the place where kingdom living begins. This message invites us to lay down self‑sufficiency, embrace repentance, and step into a deeper relationship with the Father. SERIES THE UP...

In this message, Kayla Duckett launches our new series The Upside Down Kingdom, exploring how Jesus introduces a kingdom that turns the values of the world on their head. Through Matthew 4 and the teachings of Jesus, we’re invited to rethink what power, success, strength, and victory really look like in God’s kingdom. This message unpacks repentance not as shame or condemnation, but as a gracious invitation to change our minds, realign our lives, and live as citizens of a kingdom that is alre...

On Easter Sunday, Josh Duckett explores what it means to follow Jesus through imitation, not just information. Drawing from Paul’s call to “imitate me as I imitate Christ,” this message reminds us that resurrection life is meant to be lived out and seen through ordinary people who put Jesus first. Easter isn’t just a celebration that Jesus is alive — it’s the beginning of a movement where faith spreads from life to life. As we grow in relationship with Jesus, our lives begin to reflect His lo...

In this special Easter Sunday message Kayla Duckett shares how Jesus takes our place through his work on the cross, with a focus on Galatians 3:13. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://zionpeople.nz Facebook: https://facebook.com/zionpeople.nz Instagram: https://instagram.com/zionpeople.nz Newsletter: https://zionpeople.nz/email-newsletter/ YouTube: https://zionmedia.nz ZION MEDIA Welcome to Zion Media, the home of ZION at home. As a church we believe that we can gather a...

In this message, Phil Brown explores the meaning of biblical love—agape—and shows that love is not merely a feeling, but a sacrificial action that reflects Jesus to the world. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow Me: https://youtu.be/2vyn6FlEPfE Episode Three: With Him: https://youtu.be/VNXrcEI5_8w Episode Four: Fully Trained: https://youtu.be/ghKeJ_xK-Qo Part Two: THE INNER LIFE Episode One: Rhythms of Grace: https://youtu...

In this message, Rochelle Lamborn explores what it means to live as people who are sent, not scattered. Drawing from John 20:21, we are reminded that Jesus sends us into our everyday lives with intention and purpose — as missionaries to our homes, workplaces, and communities. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow Me: https://youtu.be/2vyn6FlEPfE Episode Three: With Him: https://youtu.be/VNXrcEI5_8w Episode Four: Fully Trained:...

This week Joseph Vink teaches us that true freedom comes from surrendering the false self and centering life on God, not ourselves. Using Job 38 and Galatians 2:20, he shows that the world does not revolve around our understanding—real identity is found in Christ living through us. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow Me: https://youtu.be/2vyn6FlEPfE Episode Three: With Him: https://youtu.be/VNXrcEI5_8w Episode Four: Fully Tr...

In this message, Practices that Shape Us, Kayla Duckett unpacks the power of spiritual formation and the daily habits that shape who we become. We often assume that hearing God’s Word is enough — but Scripture calls us to practice our faith, not just listen to it. Kayla reminds us that transformation isn’t about willpower or inspiration; it’s about the small, consistent rhythms that form Christlikeness in us. Through spiritual practices like prayer, Scripture, confession, silence, communion, ...

Josh Duckett shares a powerful message on the four expressions of God’s grace—Saving, Sanctifying, Sustaining, and Serving Grace. Through Scripture, the example of Desmond Doss, and insights from Oswald Chambers, we’re reminded that Christ is our source, our strength, and the one who shapes our inner life. His grace saves us, grows us, sustains us, and empowers us to serve with humility. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow ...

This week Brendan Vink unpacks Luke 6:40, reminding us that every disciple is a learner. Someone being shaped, trained, and formed to look more like Jesus. Training takes repetition, obedience, discipline, and choosing who we allow to teach us. When we model our lives on Jesus, we grow, and we help others become like Him too. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow Me: https://youtu.be/2vyn6FlEPfE Episode Three: With Him: https...

What does it mean to truly be with Jesus? In this message, Phil Brown unpacks the call of Jesus in Mark 3:13–15 — a call not first to ministry, but to presence. Before we can serve, lead, or pour out, Jesus invites us to simply be with Him. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow Me: https://youtu.be/2vyn6FlEPfE Episode Three: With Him: https://youtu.be/VNXrcEI5_8w Episode Four: Fully Trained: https://youtu.be/ghKeJ_xK-Qo Part...

Kayla Duckett unpacks Jesus’ invitation to “Follow Me” from Mark 1:16–20. Our journey with Jesus begins with curiosity, but it leads us to trust Him, lay down our “nets,” and re‑centre our lives around Him. Before Jesus sends us, He forms us—shaping who we become as we walk closely with Him. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow Me: https://youtu.be/2vyn6FlEPfE Episode Three: With Him: https://youtu.be/VNXrcEI5_8w Episode Four...

Josh Duckett shares how Jesus’ invitation to “Come and see” begins our journey of faith. From John 1:25–39 and John 4:29, we’re reminded that relationship with Jesus grows as we spend time with Him, and that our transformed lives naturally draw others to Christ. SERIES Part One: APPRENTICED Episode One: Come and See: https://youtu.be/lIXOnwkw_dA Episode Two: Follow Me: https://youtu.be/2vyn6FlEPfE Episode Three: With Him: https://youtu.be/VNXrcEI5_8w Episode Four: Fully Trained: https://youtu...

In this powerful message, Josh Duckett reminds us that true victory is found in Christ. Drawing from Ephesians 6, Josh unpacks the importance of putting on the full armour of God and standing firm against spiritual battles. He shares personal stories of overcoming trials and encourages us to prepare daily through prayer and scripture, so we can live as a united church ready to impact our community. Victory isn’t about striving—it’s about trusting in the One who has already overcome the world....

This message looks at Zechariah 3 and Colossians 3:12–17, showing that when God calls us into a new role, He also clothes us for it. Just as Joshua needed new garments for his purpose, we too must choose daily to “put on” what reflects Christ. Sin burns and consumes, but the richness of Christ leads us to overflow with love, live as true ambassadors, and present a gospel worth listening to. We are sent (Matthew 28:19), but the question remains: are we wearing the right gear? Let’s live lives...

In this message, Kayla shares how Christmas reminds us that even in a season full of brightness, many still feel darkness. From John 1 and John 8:12, we see that Jesus is not just a guide but the Light itself—the source of life, meaning, and hope. Jesus stepped into our darkness, took on our humanity, and shows that darkness never has the final word. Following Him means we don’t walk alone, and we’re invited to carry His light into the world. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://zionpeople.nz &nb...

God has a plan and a promise for each of us—but how do we align our lives to walk in His purpose? In this message, Phil Brown explores the importance of surrendering our hearts to Jesus Christ, positioning ourselves where God wants us, and trusting His timing. Through key scriptures like Jeremiah 29:11, 2 Chronicles 7:14, and Matthew 6:33, we learn that blessings flow when we follow His lead, not our own way. Discover how to stay in step with God’s plans and recognise when it’s time to move f...

In this message, we explore what it truly means to belong in the body of Christ. You are not an accident, not a spare part, and not optional. God has placed you exactly where He wants you, values the parts that seem overlooked, and calls us to move as one family—hurting together, healing together, and celebrating together. Discover how 1 Corinthians 12 reminds us that every part matters, every gift counts, and every person is essential to God’s design for His church. CONNECT WITH US We...

In this powerful message, Josh Duckett explores Jeremiah 32. He reminds us that God equips us for His purpose, the prophets of the Bible each had a unique message pointing to Jesus, and that we should radically realign our purposes with God's purposes. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://zionpeople.nz Facebook: https://facebook.com/zionpeople.nz Instagram: https://instagram.com/zionpeople.nz Newsletter: https://zionpeople.nz/email-newsletter/ YouTube: https://zionmedia.nz ZION MEDIA Welcome to ...

What do you believe about yourself—and is it true? In this powerful message, Kayla Duckett reminds us that we often live out what we believe about ourselves, whether it's true or not. Drawing from the story of Punchinello and the Wemmicks, she challenges us to stop letting the "stars and dots" of others define us. Instead, we are called to live in the truth that we are created in the image of God—on purpose, with purpose. Kayla unpacks the biblical foundation of our identity, exploring script...

In this powerful message, Kayla Duckett explores the deep connection between wonder, curiosity, and discipleship. Drawing from Luke 5 and other key passages, encouraging us to ask: What amazement do we carry toward the Father right now? CONNECT WITH US Website: https://zionpeople.nz Facebook: https://facebook.com/zionpeople.nz Instagram: https://instagram.com/zionpeople.nz Newsletter: https://zionpeople.nz/email-newsletter/ YouTube: https://zionmedia.nz ZION MEDIA Welcome t...

Josh Duckett shares this week's message. In a world that is lost and broken, we need Jesus more than ever. Today is the day to drop the lukewarm nonsense and align our views with scripture. John 14:6 reminds us that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. The Holy Spirit gives us peace and a sound mind, and we need to listen to His promptings, especially as the global church grows. Let's make sure we are right with Christ and that He is our God. CONNECT WITH US Websit...

This heartfelt message explores the nature of God as our ultimate Father—one who listens, responds, and delights in our voice. Brendan Vink shares personal reflections on fatherhood, identity, and the comfort found in God's presence. Drawing from Philippians 4:6 and Romans 8, we’re reminded that we are adopted sons and daughters, invited to present our requests to God who responds with love and power. God has chosen us deliberately and purposefully, and He desires that we grow to reflect the ...

This week Josh and Kayla Duckett share their journey of faith, emphasizing the importance of true worship, the dangers of idolatry, and the peace, freedom, identity, and purpose that come from a life centered on God, highlighting Romans 12:2. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://zionpeople.nz Facebook: https://facebook.com/zionpeople.nz Instagram: https://instagram.com/zionpeople.nz Newsletter: https://zionpeople.nz/email-newsletter/ YouTube: https://zionmedia.nz ZION MEDIA Welcome to Zion Media,...