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Crowd Church Talks
Series: Origin | What does the Bible say about? | Mark’s Gospel | Alpha Course Online
![When Everything Looks Good But God Says No (Genesis Part 5)](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/61716838c7c31979706b85e0/1737469393791-WVS9RH3W7VBQMP21TUJA/Crowd+Video+Cover.jpg)
When Everything Looks Good But God Says No (Genesis Part 5)
Ever felt torn between what looks good and what God says is good? This week, Jenny Mariner tackled one of the most challenging aspects of faith - those moments when God says no to something that seems perfectly right. Through a fresh look at Genesis, Jenny explored how our culture's "follow your desires" narrative contrasts with God's invitation to deeper trust. From chocolate cake cravings to life-changing decisions, she revealed how God isn't restricting our joy but inviting us into something better. The following discussion got refreshingly real about relationships, power, and what it means to trust God when everything in us wants to say yes.
![Philippians #5 - Service & Sacrifice](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/61716838c7c31979706b85e0/1731251226026-M8FAKSZ3DYKEWN8HQSLF/Crowd+Video+Cover.png)
Philippians #5 - Service & Sacrifice
Today is Remembrance Sunday. Andy Kettle explores themes of service and sacrifice through the lens of biblical figures Timothy and Epaphroditus, drawing parallels with the selflessness of soldiers commemorated on this day. Andy shares the inspiring story of Woodbine Willie, a chaplain known for his compassion during World War I.
![Christianity And The Pursuit Of Happiness: Stephen's Reality Check](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/61716838c7c31979706b85e0/1685978757522-HBO42NLF6DUHB8RPM8OJ/Copy+of+CROWD+Thumbnail.jpg)
Christianity And The Pursuit Of Happiness: Stephen's Reality Check
We carry on our study of the Book of Acts. Today we are looking at Acts 7:51-60, see what we can learn from the story of Stephen, who ends up being martyred for his faith and how that ties in with popular quotes stating that God doesn't just want to give you Jesus but an abundant life too.
Somehow, Stephen found supreme joy in having Jesus, despite facing death. So has Christianity in the West been watered down? Is faith just about personal prosperity and comfort, or rather as a commitment that may involve sacrifice and even persecution?
What about the contemporary interpretation of self-love, has it been distorted to prioritise individual comfort and personal gain rather than denying oneself to follow Christ? Brace yourself for a reality check that is as challenging as it is enlightening.