Week 4
Your Weekly Round-up Sunday!
Welcome to your Week 4 Round-up Sunday! As we step into this new week, we're excited to bring you a comprehensive collection of biblical teachings, practical insights, and enriching content designed to strengthen your walk with Christ. This week's line-up is packed with powerful messages that will challenge, encourage, and equip you for deeper discipleship.
From Monday through Friday, we'll be exploring essential themes of Christian living—starting with finding your spiritual home, moving through the vital importance of fellowship and community, and culminating in a foundational teaching on becoming and growing as a true disciple of Christ. Each day brings fresh revelation from God's Word, practical application for your daily life, and opportunities to deepen your relationship with the Lord.
Our YouTube channel continues to deliver daily inspiration through Morning devotionals, thought-provoking reflections, and in-depth teachings. Plus, don't miss our Messages from the Outpost on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm—intimate gatherings where we dig deep into Scripture together.
This week, we're also addressing a critical issue facing the modern church: the danger of taking Scripture out of context and the concerning trend of replacing biblical counsel with emotional experiences. These teachings will equip you to discern truth from deception and stand firm on the solid foundation of God's Word.
Whether you're joining us on social media, watching on YouTube, listening to our podcasts, or reading our blog posts, we're committed to helping you get back to basics—building your faith on the unchanging truth of Scripture. Let's dive in together and discover what God has in store for us this week!
Building Your Faith on Biblical Foundations! Discover core Christian principles and deepen your relationship with Christ through biblical teaching and practical application…
When Scripture Becomes a Weapon: The Danger of Verses Out of Context
The Bible warns us to "be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8 KJV). One of Satan's most effective tactics is not to deny Scripture outright, but to twist it—taking verses out of context to promote agendas that contradict God's true message. This form of deception is particularly insidious because it wears the mask of biblical authority whilst leading believers astray.
Satan himself demonstrated this strategy when tempting Jesus in the wilderness. He quoted Psalm 91:11-12, (KJV) saying, "He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone" (Matthew 4:6 KJV). Notice that Satan used Scripture—but he used it deceptively, omitting the crucial context about God's protection for those walking in His ways, not for those testing Him presumptuously. Jesus responded by countering with Scripture in its proper context: "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God" (Matthew 4:7 KJV).
The Apostle Paul warned Timothy of those who would have "a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof" (2 Timothy 3:5 KJV). These individuals appear spiritual, quote Scripture, and use Christian language, yet promote teachings that ultimately undermine biblical truth. Peter also cautioned that "there are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction" (2 Peter 3:16 KJV).
How do we guard against this deception?
First, we must become students of the Word, not merely consumers of isolated verses. Paul instructed Timothy to "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV). This means understanding the historical context, the author's intent, and how each passage fits within the whole counsel of Scripture.
Second, we must test all teaching against the complete witness of Scripture. The Bereans were commended because they "received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11 KJV). Even apostolic teaching was examined against God's Word—how much more should we scrutinise modern interpretations?
Third, we need discernment through the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised that "when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth" (John 16:13 KJV). The Spirit helps us recognise when Scripture is being manipulated to serve human agendas rather than God's purposes.
Common examples of misused verses include those promoting prosperity gospel, antinomianism (grace without obedience), or teachings that minimise sin and holiness. Each takes biblical concepts—God's blessing, His grace, His love—and distorts them by ignoring the broader biblical revelation about discipleship, sanctification, and the cost of following Christ.
The solution is not to fear Scripture being misused, but to immerse ourselves so deeply in God's Word that we can recognise counterfeits. As Jesus declared, "ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32 KJV). When we know Scripture in its fullness, we become resistant to those who would weaponize isolated verses for deceptive purposes…
"Something to think about" is a phrase that indicates there is a topic or idea presented that the reader should consider and contemplate, for further reflection or discussion. Published weekly on a Monday…
Monday 19/01/26
Not All Who Wander Are Lost!
Discovering where God wants you to worship isn't wandering, it's following His lead…
Finding Your Spiritual Home
In a world where many believers find themselves moving from church to church, it's time to reconsider what we call "church hopping." This teaching explores the biblical foundation for seeking a spiritual home where sound doctrine, authentic fellowship, and genuine worship flourish. Drawing from Scripture, we discover that the early church was built on the apostles' doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers—essential elements that should characterise any true gathering of believers. The Bible actually commands us to exercise discernment, to test the spirits, and to examine teaching against God's Word, just as the Bereans did. When we search for a congregation that upholds biblical truth and practises authentic Christianity, we're not wandering aimlessly—we're following the Holy Spirit's guidance to find where we can both contribute to the body of Christ and receive spiritual nourishment. Whilst we must guard against consumer Christianity and ensure our motives remain pure, the sincere search for a church where God's presence is honoured and His Word faithfully preached is both biblically sound and spiritually healthy. Through prayer and dependence on God's wisdom, He will direct us to the right spiritual home where we can say with joy, "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord."
Messages from the Outpost: Join us at our home church (186, Greenacres, Wetheral, Carlisle CA4 8LU, UK) every Tuesday & Thursday at 7:30 pm.
Tuesday 20/01/26
Church in the Home!
Rediscovering the power of authentic fellowship in the intimate spaces of our homes…
Building Deeper Relationships in the Body of Christ
In a world that often emphasises individual achievement and self-sufficiency, the call to authentic Christian community stands as a radical counter-cultural message. This teaching explores the biblical foundation for "church in the home," revealing how the early believers lived out their faith not merely through formal gatherings but through intimate, life-sharing fellowship from house to house. Drawing from Scripture, we discover that God never intended us to walk the Christian journey alone—we are designed as interconnected members of one body, each needing the others for encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth. Through opening our homes and hearts to fellow believers, we create sacred spaces where burdens are shared, vulnerabilities are welcomed, and genuine love is demonstrated. This kind of authentic connection does more than strengthen individual believers; it serves as a powerful witness to the watching world, validating the Gospel message through the unity and love displayed amongst Christ's followers. Whether you're seeking to deepen your own faith journey or longing to experience the richness of true Christian community, this teaching offers both biblical insight and practical guidance for cultivating meaningful relationships within the body of Christ…
"Write this down" is a phrase used to draw attention to essential information that needs to be recorded or remembered. Published weekly on a Wednesday…
Wednesday 21/01/26
Fellowship!
Walking together in the light, knit together in love—because fellowship isn't optional, it's essential…
Walking Together in the Light
Fellowship is at the heart of the Christian life, yet it's often misunderstood in our modern world. This isn't just about attending church or socialising—it's about experiencing genuine spiritual communion with God and with fellow believers. Rooted in the Greek word koinonia, biblical fellowship begins with our relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ and naturally flows into how we relate to one another as members of His body. The early Church provides a powerful example, as believers devoted themselves to teaching, prayer, breaking bread, and sharing life together in remarkable unity. Through fellowship, we receive encouragement when we're weary, accountability when we're tempted to stray, and unity that testifies to the world of Christ's transforming power. Yet pride, unforgiveness, busyness, and division can all hinder this vital aspect of our faith. That's why we must be intentional—prioritising gatherings, practising hospitality, being vulnerable with one another, serving side by side, and faithfully praying for our brothers and sisters. Fellowship isn't optional; it's essential for our spiritual health and growth. When we walk together in the light, knit together in love, we experience the fullness of joy that Christ promised and become the unified body He prayed we would be…
Messages from the Outpost: Join us at our home church (186, Greenacres, Wetheral, Carlisle CA4 8LU, UK) every Tuesday & Thursday at 7:30 pm.
Thursday 22/01/26
You Need the Church & the Church Needs You!
Discover your divine purpose within the body of Christ & strengthen the church through your unique spiritual gifts…
Finding Your Place in the Body
The Christian life was never meant to be lived alone. God has designed the church as a living, breathing body where every believer plays an indispensable role through their unique spiritual gifts. Just as the human body needs every part to function properly, the church needs you to step into your calling and use the gifts God has given you. But this relationship works both ways—whilst the church needs your contribution, you equally need the church for spiritual growth, biblical teaching, loving accountability, and encouragement in your walk with Christ. When you try to follow Jesus in isolation, you miss out on the divine design for Christian community and the church loses the vital contribution only you can make. This isn't about religious obligation; it's about discovering your God-given purpose within the body of Christ and experiencing the joy of being exactly where God wants you. Your gift matters, your presence matters, and your faithful service builds up the entire body towards maturity in Christ. The question isn't whether you need the church or the church needs you—it's whether you're ready to embrace this beautiful interdependence and step into the role God has prepared specifically for you…
Back to Basics is a weekly Christian living teaching blog that focuses on teaching the principles of Christian living from a fundamental perspective. Published weekly on a Friday…
Friday 23/01/2
Back to Basics: Christian Living: Becoming & Growing as a Disciple of Christ!
Transforming Lives Through Biblical Truth—One Step at a Time…
Living as Disciples in Today's World
This teaching explores the essence of Christian discipleship, examining both what it means to be a true disciple of Christ and how believers grow in spiritual maturity. At its foundation, discipleship is marked by love—a deliberate choice to serve and sacrifice for others as Christ did, which becomes the visible testimony of genuine faith. This love naturally flows into obedience, where keeping Christ's commandments becomes the overflow of a transformed heart rather than mere duty. True disciples bear lasting fruit through abiding in Christ, producing both personal character transformation and kingdom impact that leads others to the Saviour. The cost of discipleship requires daily self-denial, taking up our cross by choosing Christ over selfish ambitions and embracing whatever suffering comes from following Him. Rather than seeking worldly greatness, disciples are called to humble service, measuring spiritual maturity by how well they serve others. Growth begins with renewing the mind through Scripture, allowing God's Word to reshape thinking and guide decisions. Believers must actively put off old patterns of sin whilst deliberately cultivating their new identity in Christ through intentional spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, and meditation. Walking in the Spirit's power rather than human strength enables believers to overcome temptation and produce spiritual fruit. Ultimately, discipleship is both a calling and a lifelong journey that transforms believers into the likeness of Christ, fulfilling their purpose to bring glory to God and point others to the Saviour who transforms lives…
YouTube: Engaging Content Line-up on 'Back to Basics: Christian Living' YouTube Channel. Published weekly from Monday to Friday...
This Week: 19 - 23 January 2026
Welcome to this week's exciting line-up on our "Back to Basics: Christian Living" YouTube channel! We've carefully curated content designed to strengthen your faith, provide daily spiritual nourishment, and accompany you on your walk with Christ. From devotional moments to in-depth teachings, we're committed to bringing you resources that both inspire and equip…
Here's what you can look forward to this week:
Morning!
Welcome to "Morning" inspires you to walk in the Spirit and remember that faith comes from believing. Join us in making each day an opportunity to live for Him and fulfil His purpose. We look forward to seeing you each morning. God bless...
Something to Think About?
Our "Something to Think About" playlist offers brief, thought-provoking reflections on Christian living. Each video presents meaningful topics designed for contemplation and spiritual growth, encouraging viewers to examine their faith more deeply. Whether you're seeking inspiration or wrestling with questions, these concise messages provide valuable insights to carry with you throughout your day and spark meaningful discussions with fellow believers….
Shorts: messages from the Outpost!
Discover the truth of God's Word. We're addressing the erosion of Biblical teachings in today's world and inviting everyone to join us on this journey. Our mission is to uphold the true teachings of Jesus, challenging misleading interpretations, and promoting accountability…
Write this Down…
Our Write This Down playlist features essential Christian teachings and biblical insights you'll want to remember. Each video highlights key principles for your faith journey that are worth noting down for future reference and spiritual growth….
Back to Basics: Christian Living
…Laying the foundation for a Christian life…
Back to Basics: Christian Living guides viewers through core principles of faith. Each video explores essential topics like prayer, scripture and community, offering practical advice and spiritual insights. Whether you're new to faith or deepening your understanding, this series provides key teachings for a life rooted in Christian values…
Our YouTube content features these playlist series:
Back to Basics: Christian living Q&A - A question-and-answer format addressing viewers' faith-related inquiries.
Let's Read the Word Together! - A series dedicated to Scripture study and its practical application to daily life.
What's on my Heart: Unfiltered Faith! - A playlist featuring brief spiritual insights where I share God's wisdom on specific topics with practical applications for your Christian Walk.
Archive Collections: Under the Tree! - Building a solid foundation for a Christian life -Reflecting Christ, Overcoming Challenges, and Standing Strong in Faith offering insightful discussions on several topics related to Christian living & spiritual growth.
Subscribe to our channel and tune in to strengthen your faith today! Perfect for listening whilst commuting, relaxing or seeking daily inspiration...
Note: Remember, these schedules are subject to change, but we're committed to bringing you content that enriches your spiritual journey….
Back to Basics: for KIDS! - Content specifically designed for children and families - Animated short-form content coming soon!
Blazing Apostles & Saturday Conversations Podcasts…
Ignite Your Faith: Explore Our Podcasts
Watch on YouTube to connect visually with our teachings. Whether you're new to faith or well-established, these podcasts offer practical biblical applications to deepen your spiritual life.
Discover our podcasts "Blazing Apostles" and "Saturday Conversations" with hosts Dave and Elaine. Through engaging discussions, stories and practical teachings, we explore foundational Christian principles that refresh your faith.
Back to Basics: Christian living - Unscripted!
Whether you're a long-time believer or just starting your spiritual journey, our podcast will inspire and challenge you to live a life that truly reflects your Christian values. Discover practical ways to apply biblical truths in your daily life and gain a renewed sense of purpose and connection with your faith...
Subscribe to our channel and tune in to strengthen your faith today! Perfect for listening whilst commuting, relaxing or seeking daily inspiration...
Note: Remember, these schedules are subject to change, but we're committed to bringing you content that enriches your spiritual journey….
NEWS! Updates and announcements about Back to Basics: Christian living, including content changes, newsletters, website updates, and valuable information for our audience…
What Would You Tell Your Past Self?
We're a couple of weeks into the new year, and as the initial excitement settles, I want to invite you to pause for a moment of reflection.
If you could sit down with the version of yourself from one year ago, January 2025, what wisdom would you share? What truths has the Lord revealed to you through this past year?
Think about the unexpected blessings God brought your way. The trials that refined your faith rather than diminished it. The moments when you discovered that His grace truly is sufficient, that His strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV).
The truth is, we are being transformed day by day. As Paul writes, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). This transformation is the work of the Holy Spirit in us.
If I could speak to my January 2025 self, I would say this:
"Trust the Lord's timing more than your own understanding. Walk in obedience even when the path isn't clear. Remember that God is working all things together for good, even when you can't see it yet."
I know many of you reading this are faithful believers who understand that spiritual growth often comes through perseverance and testing of our faith (James 1:2-4 KJV).
I'd love to hear from you: What counsel would you give your past self, knowing what God has taught you this year? Your testimony might be exactly what a brother or sister in Christ needs to hear today.
May God bless you richly as we walk together in this new year…
Back to Basics: Christian Living - Your Faith Journey. We're excited to share insights and practical guidance to help strengthen your faith journey in 2025…
When Songs Replace Scripture: A Call Back to Biblical Foundation
There's a concerning trend emerging in modern church culture that deserves our careful examination. Increasingly, when believers face difficulties or seek spiritual guidance, they're being directed to songs rather than Scripture. Whilst worship music holds value in the life of the church, we must ask ourselves: when did melodies replace the eternal Word of God as our primary source of truth and counsel?
The Apostle Paul provided clear instruction about the supremacy of Scripture: "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works" (2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV). Notice that Paul doesn't mention songs or emotional experiences as the foundation for equipping believers—he points exclusively to Scripture.
This isn't to diminish the biblical role of music in worship. The Psalms themselves are songs, and Paul encourages believers to speak "to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:19 KJV). However, there's a crucial difference between using Scripture-based songs to reinforce biblical truth and replacing scriptural counsel with mere musical sentimentality.
When someone struggles with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or spiritual doubt, they need the solid foundation of God's Word. Jesus Himself, when tempted in the wilderness, didn't respond with a song—He responded with Scripture: "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4 KJV). This establishes a clear precedent: the Word of God is our weapon against spiritual battles.
The writer of Hebrews reminds us that "the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12 KJV). Songs, no matter how beautifully crafted or emotionally stirring, cannot accomplish what Scripture accomplishes in the human heart.
Furthermore, Scripture provides objective truth that doesn't change with cultural trends or personal feelings. "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever" (Isaiah 40:8 KJV). Songs, however, reflect contemporary theological understanding—or misunderstanding—and can inadvertently promote doctrinal error wrapped in appealing melodies.
This doesn't mean we abandon worship music. Rather, it means we return to the biblical order: Scripture first, always. When counselling fellow believers, we must ask ourselves whether we're offering them the solid food of God's Word or the spiritual equivalent of sweets—pleasant but lacking nutritional value.
The challenge for today's church is clear: will we be people of the Book, or people of feelings and experiences? Will we point struggling believers to the unchanging truth of Scripture, or to the ever-changing landscape of contemporary Christian music? Our answer to these questions will determine whether we're building on rock or sand (Matthew 7:24-27 KJV).
Let us return to basics, grounding our faith, our counsel, and our lives firmly in the Word of God…
With Christ's love,
Dave & Elaine
