Seminar from the BCUK National Conference 2026
Identity: Conversations Exploring Our Union with Christ
What’s wrong with people pleasing? In the Bible we read “each of us should please our neighbours” (Romans 15:2), “look to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4) and “try to please everyone in every way” (1 Corinthians 10:33). So how do we square this with Scripture’s call “not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts” (1 Thessalonians 2:4)? This seminar considers our need to please the people around us, how this connects to our worship of God, and how, in Christ, we can serve others freely and joyfully.
What’s wrong with people pleasing? In the Bible we read “each of us should please our neighbours” (Romans 15:2), “look to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4) and “try to please everyone in every way” (1 Corinthians 10:33). So how do we square this with Scripture’s call “not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts” (1 Thessalonians 2:4)? This seminar considers our need to please the people around us, how this connects to our worship of God, and how, in Christ, we can serve others freely and joyfully.
Nicola Eggertsen is the Training and Resources Officer with BCUK. She completed the BCUK Certificate Programme in 2018 and is now a tutor and grader. Nicola runs a “Soul Care” practice and is studying for certification with the Association of Biblical Counselors. She is a Lay Pastoral Assistant at her church and involved in ministry alongside her husband (who is the vicar).