Week 5
Your Weekly Round-up Sunday!
Welcome to Week 5 of our Round-up Sunday. This week, we're diving deep into foundational truths that will strengthen your walk with Christ and equip you to live victoriously in today's challenging world. From exploring our spiritual proximity to God, to understanding why the church is fractured into so many denominations, to discovering what it truly means to live in biblical community whilst making disciples—this week's content is designed to challenge, inspire, and transform.
We'll examine how close you are to God right now, exploring the vital roles of prayer and repentance in maintaining intimacy with our Heavenly Father. We'll investigate why Christianity has splintered into thousands of denominations, uncovering the roots of division and God's heart for unity amongst His people. You'll discover why Back to Basics: Christian Living matters in an age of spiritual compromise, and understand the urgent need for godly leaders who will shepherd God's flock according to biblical standards.
This week's teaching blog will focus on Living in Community & Making Disciples, revealing how authentic Christianity cannot be lived in isolation and how every believer is called to participate in the Great Commission. Throughout the week, you'll find daily YouTube content including morning devotionals, thought-provoking reflections, messages from the Outpost, and in-depth teachings—all designed to bring you back to the basics of what it means to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Whether you're struggling with spiritual distance, wrestling with questions about church unity, seeking deeper fellowship, or longing to make a genuine impact for God's kingdom, this week's content will provide biblical answers, practical guidance, and Holy Spirit inspiration. Join us as we strip away the fluff of modern Christianity and return to the solid rock of God's unchanging Word!
Building Your Faith on Biblical Foundations! Discover core Christian principles and deepen your relationship with Christ through biblical teaching and practical application…
How Close Are You to God?
Mind the Gap: Closing the Distance Between You & God…
In our spiritual journey, the most critical measurement isn't physical distance but spiritual proximity. How close are you to God right now? The Bible reveals that maintaining intimacy with our Heavenly Father requires intentional communication and swift repentance when we fall short.
Prayer is not a religious duty but the lifeblood of our connection with God. Paul urges us to "Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17 KJV), calling us to maintain constant communion with our Father. This doesn't mean endless kneeling but rather keeping our hearts perpetually tuned to His presence.
Jesus modelled this perfectly. Despite His demanding ministry, He prioritised time alone with the Father: "And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed" (Mark 1:35 KJV). If Christ needed this communion, how much more do we?
When we neglect prayer and Scripture, spiritual coldness creeps in. We begin making decisions without divine wisdom, drifting from the intimacy we once enjoyed. The psalmist captures this longing beautifully: "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God" (Psalm 42:1 KJV).
Whilst neglect creates distance, sin actively separates us from God. Isaiah warns, "But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you" (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). Sin doesn't merely crack our relationship—it creates a chasm that blocks God's presence and voice.
Sin clouds our spiritual vision, weighs us down with shame, and grieves the Holy Spirit: "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption" (Ephesians 4:30 KJV). Satan delights in this division, knowing that separated Christians become vulnerable to defeat.
The glorious Gospel truth is that separation need not be permanent. God provides restoration through repentance: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9 KJV).
True repentance means turning completely away from sin and back to God. It requires acknowledging wrongdoing, genuine remorse, and decisive change. God eagerly awaits your return, ready to restore full fellowship. "The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit" (Psalm 34:18 KJV).
Address sin immediately. The longer it remains unconfessed, the wider the gap grows and the harder your heart becomes. "But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin" (Hebrews 3:13 KJV).
Remember your identity: you are God's beloved child, "called out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9 KJV). Don't let anything keep you from the intimate relationship He offers. "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you" (James 4:8 KJV).
"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 26/01/26
Back to Basics: Christian Living – A Foundation for Faith!
Rediscovering the Power of Scripture in a Compromised World…
The Heart of the Gospel
Back to Basics: Christian Living is a call to return to the unchanging foundation of God's Word in a world where truth has been compromised and the gospel watered down. This ministry cuts through the noise of modern Christianity to rediscover the power and simplicity of biblical faith. It's about going deeper into Scripture, prayer, and relationship with God—not settling for entertainment-driven services or shallow teaching. Here, you'll find bold, uncompromising content that tackles hard questions, challenges cultural Christianity, and equips you to live out your faith authentically. Whether you're hungry for spiritual depth, tired of superficial sermons, or longing to build your life on the solid rock of Christ, this is your invitation to strip away the fluff and return to what matters most. The world is watching to see if our faith has transforming power—let's show them a Christianity that's real, grounded in truth, and reflects the character of Christ. This isn't about religion or legalism; it's about freedom through knowing and living God's truth, standing firm in conviction, and making an eternal impact for the kingdom…
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 27/01/26
Why So Many Denominations? Understanding the Splintered Church!
Exploring the fractures in Christianity & the biblical call to unity amidst denominational diversity.
The Path Forward: Practical Steps Towards Unity
The Christian church stands divided into thousands of denominations, each claiming correct interpretation of Scripture—yet this fragmentation contradicts God's clear design for unity. Scripture reveals one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, yet what seekers encounter is confusion, competition, and condemnation amongst believers. Jesus prayed specifically for unity so the world would believe, but our divisions push people away from the very truth they're searching for. This splintering didn't happen overnight—it grew from false teaching, personal ambition, and especially human pride, as leaders refused to submit humbly to one another, preferring to establish their own interpretations as supreme. Whilst we must stand firm on core doctrines like Christ, salvation by grace, and Scripture's authority, many denominations exist over secondary matters that should never have divided the body. When unbelievers observe Christians arguing and forming separate camps, they understandably question whether any of it is real, sometimes concluding there is no truth to know. The solution requires returning to Scripture alone as our authority, humbling ourselves to admit when we're wrong, and focusing on Christ rather than denominational distinctives. The problem isn't God or His Word—it's our failure to submit fully to both. The true body of Christ exists across all denominational lines, including everyone who genuinely trusts in Jesus for salvation. Though we fail to achieve unity through human effort, Scripture promises Christ will ultimately present His church unified, glorious, holy, and without blemish. Until that day, we must endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, pointing people to Christ rather than to our camps, recognising that our Saviour prayed for the very unity we so desperately need to pursue…
"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 28/01/26
Standing Firm in Truth! Why Back to Basics: Christian Living Matters!
Equipping believers to live faithfully in an age of compromise…
A Call to Stand Firm in Truth
In an age of spiritual compromise and declining biblical literacy, Back to Basics: Christian living exists to call believers back to the foundational truths of God's Word. This ministry challenges the modern church to examine whether it reflects New Testament patterns or has drifted into entertainment and motivational speaking devoid of biblical substance. We equip believers to move beyond passive Sunday Christianity into daily obedience, where their entire manner of life reflects the transforming power of the gospel. By exposing false doctrines like prosperity theology and lawless grace whilst gently pointing people back to Scripture, we help Christians recognise counterfeits and build their lives upon the solid rock of God's truth. Through daily blogs and YouTube content, we address the reality of spiritual warfare, encourage the biblical exercise of spiritual gifts, and emphasise that true discipleship requires not just hearing but doing the Word—obedience, sacrifice, and daily surrender to Christ's lordship. Our mission is simple yet vital: to teach, challenge, encourage, and equip believers to stand firm and live victoriously in Christ…
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 29/01/26
The Church needs Leaders Now!
Equipping God's church with faithful shepherds for every generation…
The Urgent Call for Leadership
The church of Jesus Christ urgently needs godly leaders who will shepherd God's people according to biblical standards in this age of spiritual compromise and doctrinal confusion. From the Old Testament patriarchs to the New Testament apostles, God has consistently called and appointed leaders to guide His people, and establishing such leadership in every church is not optional but essential. Scripture provides clear qualifications for church leaders that emphasise character above charisma, requiring blameless conduct, faithful family life, self-control, and teaching ability rather than worldly success or popularity. These leaders bear weighty responsibilities to feed the flock with sound doctrine, protect believers from false teaching, proclaim God's Word without compromise, and maintain a foundation of prayer in all their activities. True biblical leadership is fundamentally about servant-hearted service and sacrifice rather than authority and power, following Christ's example of washing His disciples' feet and becoming the servant of all. Leaders must possess courage to stand for biblical truth even when unpopular, confront sin when uncomfortable, and refuse to compromise Scripture to accommodate cultural trends or appease critics. Current leaders have a responsibility to mentor and develop the next generation through intentional training and discipleship, ensuring godly leadership continues across generations. With this privilege comes sobering accountability, as leaders will give account to Christ for how they shepherded His flock and handled His truth. The church needs not self-serving politicians or charismatic entertainers, but faithful shepherds who will love God's people, proclaim His Word, and lead by godly example with humility, courage, and unwavering devotion to Christ and His church…
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 30/01/26
Back to Basics: Christian Living: Living in Community & Making Disciples
Living together, growing together, reaching the world together…
The Church Together: Fellowship & Disciple-Making
In this teaching on living in Christian community and making disciples, we explore the profound biblical truth that authentic Christianity cannot be lived in isolation. From the earliest days of the church, believers have been called to devoted fellowship, breaking bread together, and bearing one another's burdens as they follow Christ. This is not merely a suggestion but a divine design for spiritual growth and vitality.
We examine how Christian community functions as the essential context for discipleship, where accountability sharpens us like iron sharpening iron, where spiritual gifts are exercised for mutual edification, and where conflicts are resolved through biblical principles that prioritise restoration over division. The Apostle Paul's instruction to bear one another's burdens reveals the practical, sacrificial nature of Christian love that should characterise every disciple community.
But our calling extends beyond fellowship amongst ourselves. The Great Commission charges every disciple—not just church leaders—with the responsibility to make disciples of all nations. This means sharing the Gospel with boldness and grace, mentoring new believers, and investing in faithful individuals who will teach others also. Thus, a beautiful cycle emerges: we are discipled in community whilst simultaneously making disciples who expand that community, creating generations of faithful followers who observe all that Christ commanded.
This teaching challenges us to return to these basic yet transformative truths: that we need one another, that we are called to actively participate in each other's spiritual journeys, and that every disciple has a role in advancing God's kingdom. When we embrace both community and commission, we experience Christianity as it was always meant to be—a dynamic, life-transforming movement that changes individuals, families, churches, and ultimately nations for the glory of God…
YouTube: Engaging Content Line-up on 'Back to Basics: Christian Living' YouTube Channel. Published weekly from Monday to Friday...
This Week: 26 - 30 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: Awakening Faith!
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….
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…
🎉 Exciting News: YouTube Channel Revamp!
We're thrilled to announce a major revamp of our YouTube channel homepage, designed to create a more engaging and interactive experience for our viewers! This transformation reflects our commitment to building a vibrant community where everyone can grow in their faith together.
What's Changing?
Channel Trailer: We've created a welcoming channel trailer specifically for new visitors who haven't subscribed yet. This short video introduces our mission, gives a preview of our content, and invites viewers to join our community. It's the perfect first impression that explains what Back to Basics: Christian Living is all about and why subscribing will benefit their faith journey.
Enhanced Channel Layout: We've redesigned our channel's front page to make it easier for you to find the content that matters most to you. Our playlists are now prominently featured, allowing quick access to your favourite series whether that's Back to Basics: Christian Living, Something to Think About, or our popular podcasts.
Featured Content Sections: Our homepage now highlights current sermon series, trending videos, and timely messages, ensuring you never miss important teachings that speak to what's happening in your spiritual journey right now.
Why This Matters
Our YouTube channel is more than just a collection of videos—it's a digital gathering place for believers seeking to deepen their faith. This revamp creates space for genuine interaction, allowing us to learn from one another and grow together in Christ.
We believe that faith flourishes in community, and these changes will help foster connections between viewers whilst making biblical teaching more accessible and engaging for everyone.
Join the Conversation!
Visit our revamped YouTube channel today and explore the new features. Subscribe if you haven't already, turn on notifications, and most importantly—engage with us! Comment on videos, participate in community posts, and share how God is working in your life.
We're excited about this new chapter and look forward to building a stronger, more interactive community with you. Together, we'll continue laying the foundation for authentic Christian living, one video at a time.
Subscribe now and be part of the conversation:
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 the Foundations Are Shaken
Building Unshakable Faith in Times of Crisis…
In times of crisis, whether personal or universal, it is not uncommon for individuals to feel their foundations shaking. This can be especially true for those of us who hold our Christian faith as the bedrock of our lives. The Bible provides a poignant metaphor for such times in Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders, found in Matthew 7:24-27 [KJV].
Jesus says in Matthew 7:24-27 [KJV]: "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."
In this parable, Jesus contrasts two builders: one wise and one foolish. The wise builder constructs his house on a solid rock foundation, whilst the foolish builder constructs his house on shifting sand. When storms come, the house on the rock stands firm, but the house on the sand collapses.
When we experience life's "storms"—whether they be personal challenges, health issues, financial struggles, or global crises like pandemics or natural disasters—our faith can feel as though it is being tested. Has your foundation of Christian faith been shaken? This question is not merely rhetorical; it invites deep introspection and an examination of our spiritual lives.
Jesus' parable teaches us that the key to a sturdy spiritual foundation is not just hearing His words but putting them into practice. James 1:22 [KJV] echoes this sentiment: "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
To build our lives on the rock of Jesus' teachings, we must integrate His words into our daily actions and decisions. This means loving our neighbours, showing compassion, seeking justice, and maintaining a prayerful relationship with God. It also means trusting in God's providence, even when circumstances seem dire.
Several scriptures can offer comfort and guidance when our faith feels tested. Psalm 46:1-2 [KJV] reminds us: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea."
Similarly, Isaiah 40:31 [KJV] assures us: "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
In times of turmoil, it is natural to feel as though the very ground beneath us is shaking. Yet, it is in these moments that we are called to reaffirm our faith and trust in God's unchanging nature. By building our lives on the teachings of Jesus and leaning on the promises of scripture, we can withstand life's storms and emerge with our faith intact.
So, when you feel your foundations shaking, remember the wise builder and anchor yourself in the solid rock of God's word. In doing so, you will find the strength to stand firm, no matter what challenges come your way…
With Christ's love,
Dave & Elaine
