Under Pressure

In this talk, Jermaine continues our series "not from round here" in the book of 1 Peter.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com.

this week, Kristin continues our series "not from round here" in the book of 1 Peter.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com

How do we respond to injustice without allowing it to change who we are? In this talk, David explores 1 Peter 2, where Peter reflects on how Jesus responded to suffering, refusing to retaliate and entrusting himself to the one who judges justly.We look at the difference between enduring injustice and accepting it, and how following Jesus means standing up for what is right without allowing anger, fear, or hatred to shape us. In a world that can so easily divide us, we consider what it means to keep choosing love, challenge injustice, and stand alongside those who are overlooked.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com

What if Christianity is more than something we believe — what if it’s a life we’re invited to receive? In this talk, Matt explores Luke 13:18–21, where Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed growing into a tree and yeast working its way through dough.We look at how God's kingdom brings new life and transformation, often in ways that are quiet and gradual rather than dramatic. And we consider what it means to move beyond a faith that is simply a matter of words, allowing Jesus' love and power to take root in us, free us, and change us from the inside out.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com

What if your place in the community matters more than you realise? In this talk, we explore 1 Peter 2 and Peter's image of the church as a house built from living stones, each one unique and precious to God.We look at why belonging isn't something we have to earn, how our individual gifts and differences strengthen a community, and why the church needs all of us to build something that helps others find a place too.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com

What are the things that stop us from standing tall? In this talk, we explore Luke 13 and the story of a woman who has spent 18 years bent over, until Jesus notices her and sets her free.We look at the ways shame, judgment, and exclusion can diminish people, and how we can follow Jesus’ example by helping others find their voice, rediscover their dignity, and become who they were created to be.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com

What does it mean to live a holy life today? In this talk, we explore 1 Peter 1:13–2:3 and Peter’s call to a community learning what it means to be set apart, shaped by grace, and deeply transformed by God's love.We look at what it means to align our minds, desires, and actions with God’s character, not through pressure or perfectionism, but out of a personal response to the life and sacrifice of Jesus. And ultimately, to discover that holiness isn't about isolation or strict rules, but about living with sincere love, holy reverence, and a deep craving for God's word.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com.

What does prayer look like in the real stuff of everyday life? In this video, Owen, Alison, and Abiy share three short reflections on Luke 11:1–13 as part of our series Nobody Walks This Slowly by Accident.Looking at Jesus' teaching on prayer, they explore what it means to pray through hard times, tackle our doubts around unanswered prayer, and lean into the character of a loving God. And ultimately, to discover that no matter where we find ourselves, we are invited to bring our whole lives to a Father who hears us and cares for us.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com

What are you holding onto in life? In this talk, we explore 1 Peter 1:1–12 and Peter's message to people who are scattered, struggling, and unsure of where they belong.We look at the things we often rely on for security, and what it means to find a hope that isn't dependent on our circumstances — a hope that remains when life is painful, uncertain, or out of our control. And ultimately, to discover that even when we feel like we're barely holding on, God is holding onto us.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com.

What does it mean to follow when you don't know what it will ask of you? In this talk, Arabella explores Luke 9:51–62, where Jesus sets out towards Jerusalem knowing the suffering that awaits him, while those around him are challenged to decide whether they are ready to follow.We look at the fears, questions and commitments that can make us hesitate, and what it means to trust Jesus enough to take the next step — even when we don't fully understand what following him will involve.For more about St Mary's London, visit stmaryslondon.com.