theadvocate.tv AUGUST 2019

IN CONVERSATION Carey Baptist’s youth pastors Author Michelle Mitchell writes how the share how they’ve led their youth ministry into a ‘give up’ strategy can boost thankfulness in new season. PAGE 12 >> our homes. PAGE 13 >>

4 Affordable housing Church leads new housing project for homeless >>

5 Sponsorship Sunday Make a difference through child sponsorship >> Photo: Perth Chin Baptist Church Chin Christian Council in Australia General Secretary, Rev. Dr Dennis Shu Maung, Perth Chin Baptist Church Senior Pastor, Rev. James Tin Kung, and BCWA Director of Ministries, Pastor Mark Wilson officially open Perth Chin Baptist Church’s new building. 10 Hong Kong protests Christian hymn becomes anthem in protests >> Chin Baptists celebrate

Perth Chin Baptist Church, joined by guests from other Chin churches Chin Christian Council in throughout Australia, celebrated the official opening of their new church Australia General Secretary, building on Sunday 5 May. Rev. Dr Dennis Shu Maung joined James and Baptist Churches Western Australia Director of Perth Chin Baptist Church Senior in Belmont for six months, and The church initially envisaged Ministries, Pastor Mark Wilson Building Pastor, Rev. James Tin Kung said for the last four and a half years the process of acquiring their own to cut the ribbon at the the opening date was special for we have been blessed to be able building to be around ten years – opening service. healthy their congregation because it was to worship at Maida Vale Baptist five years to purchase the land and “From its humble beginning the fifth anniversary of the church Church, prior to moving into the another five years to raise funds in 2014, it has been wonderful to churches. being formed in Perth. new building at Bassendean,” and construct the buildings. see the Perth Chin Baptist Church A church plant from WA James said. However, with the support of flourish in its ministry,” Mark said. Chin Christian Church, Perth James described the issues Baptist Churches Western Australia “To have its own place to Chin Baptist Church was formed they faced as a new church and Cross Cultural and Indigenous call home is a blessing from BAPTIST CHURCHES in 2014 with 148 members, wanting to host weekly events for Ministries Pastor, Victor Owuor, the Lord.” WESTERN AUSTRALIA including children. their congregation. They had to they were able to find a suitable James shared that the Church members originate hire other churches’ buildings, so building in Bassendean. congregation wanted to be from the Hakha region, near the they were limited to using them on With funds raised from church known as good members of north-eastern border of Myanmar, arranged days and found that this members, a loan through Baptist their community and he prayed primarily settling in Australia as was limiting their ability to grow. Financial Services and permission that they would be a useful and refugees to escape persecution “We were very enthusiastic to convert the building’s use to meaningful instrument for God’s from the Myanmar Army. to purchase our own building, worship granted from the Town Kingdom and His people. “In the beginning we so we could hold social as well as of Bassendean, the purchase was worshipped at Airport City Church religious functions,” he said. finalised in September 2017. Author – Matthew Chapman 2 my view

AUGUST 2019

On crank calls …

Every job has its occupational hazards. I’m sure that those of you who are the Jehovah’s Witnesses come doctors will tell me that at dinner parties people are desperate to chat to you knocking? If not, don’t throw the about odd-looking lumps or troublesome piles, while the mechanics among first stone … But every now and then you my readers are equally frustrated by those bothered by their car’s dodgy get it wrong. Like today … it had all ignition system and look to them for a free and painless solution. the marks of the classic crank call. The person had called three times If, like me, you head a venerated over the last 20 centuries have My despair deepens with the (I had genuinely been out), and theological seminary, you are never spotted what they are reply, “Well, I just told them your now was the fourth. There was fair game for queries about every now proclaiming, it is probably 2:30 appointment was cancelled, no valid excuse to avoid the call. conceivable heresy hatched because it isn’t there. so they phoned at a perfect time.” So, I took it. And I was blessed. during 2,000 years of church This is a long way of saying “Could you tell them the fire The person wanted to share a God history. Actually, the person that when my PA announces, “I alarm has just gone off and we experience with me. I am so glad Dr Brian Harris making the query is often keen have [obscure name] on the line. have to evacuate the building?” I they did. You can’t put God in a Dr Brian Harris is the to birth a new heresy of their They are keen to chat to you about ask. An awkward silence follows. box. Sometimes He speaks when Principal of Vose Seminary own, and usually wants my Revelation 14:3-5 (or Ezekiel 17:1-4 “Oh alright, put them through,” I you least expect it. and Pastor at Large for the support for their misguided or whatever),” my heart does not hear myself say. Carey Group. enterprise. It can take a fair leap with joy. I usually ask, “You Lest you judge me too harshly amount of diplomacy to say that have told them I’m unavailable, for my poor attitude, do you if millions of readers of the Bible haven’t you?” go rushing to the door when

Walking with a limp

Recently I have been reflecting on how we respond as leaders and as believers or emotionally, but choosing to to the really tough things life throws at us. I’m talking about loss, grief, sickness keep going anyway because this – the big, life-defining things that have the potential to make or break us. life is bigger than me. God cannot turn our weakness into His strength The past seven or so years of also taught me valuable lessons the things that are necessary if we never let Him use our my life have been marked by as a leader and a follower of for my body and for my soul to weakness, and it’s in those significant bouts of sickness, Jesus. They have taught me how recover. I’ve learnt to treasure times – those walking with a taking me out for weeks at a time to delegate, how to let go of the those times. I’ve also learnt that limp times – that God has done and preventing me from being unimportant things and how to there are times when you have His most powerful ministry involved in all that I have wanted lean on the amazing team I have to keep leading through the through me. to. I should say that I am not very at church for support. The most pain. It’s not only necessary, good at missing out – I want to be important lesson I’ve learnt, but important – for you and Jessica Magowan where the action is! however, is knowing when to those you lead and do life with. Jessica Magowan is the Those years have broken push through the pain, and Why? Because in our weakness, Associate Pastor at Inglewood me at times. I haven’t always when to stop and rest. That was He is strong. I call those times Community Church. responded in God-honouring a long, slow lesson to learn, as ‘walking with a limp’. I’m ways, and I certainly haven’t my husband will attest to! walking, I keep going, but it’s been a good patient on several I’ve learnt that when it’s with a limp. It’s being aware that occasions. But those years have time to rest, to do it well – to do I’m hurting, whether physically

No more religion, more love in action

As we all know, there are a myriad of different denominations in our Christian not able to show this compassion religion. We are aware that some denominations emphasise slight doctrinal of the Father in the Parable differences, but often they simply offer different types of praise and styles of of the Prodigal Son, I am not demonstrating God’s love – which worship – depending on the preferences of Christians. can be tough at times! However, I also need to We all know that it is crucial that do not care about religion or From my experience, they are realise, God’s forgiveness must we are to be of ‘one mind’ on the denominationalism. more interested in the Father’s be God-like – like that of the essentials of our faith, but beyond What they do care about is actions, where it says in Luke 15:20, Father. God’s love is always that, there are a great deal of issues acceptance of all people – no “… his father saw him and was far greater than my creed or that we have freedom on what we matter how different we are. filled with compassion for him; lecturing – which is always to hold ‘close to our heart’. They are not so much interested he ran to his son, threw his arms be doused with mercy, grace, In my time of lecturing in our creeds as much as we around him and kissed him.” The compassion and pastoral care. Peter Christofides Introduction of Theology to are – no matter how important word used there for compassion So despite my denominational Peter Christofides is the students at The University of we believe these creeds to be. is ‘splagchnizomai’ which means persuasion, it’s all about my Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Notre Dame, I have found that They are more interested in ‘to be moved as to one’s bowels’. At relationship with Christ. As Coolbellup Campus Pastor. most students (about 500 doing seeing those of us who claim the time, the bowels were thought the lyrics of a song read, “Your this unit each semester) do not to be Christians and lovers of to be the place of love, sympathy, sovereign hand will be my guide.” know the difference between the Lord Jesus Christ, to be kindness and mercy. God’s hand will be my guide in a ‘religion’ and a ‘Christian demonstrating the love of God I have learnt that no matter my actions of demonstrating denomination’. I have found and the compassion of Jesus to how passionate I am about my His compassion to those I meet. that most students actually all we come into contact with. belief in my Lord Jesus, if I am What a comforting challenge! news 3

AUGUST 2019 Hearing the Indigenous voice

A recent meeting between Baptist Churches Western Australia (BCWA) and Indigenous pastors and elders has strengthened unity within Baptist churches.

BCWA Church and Leaders He preached a sermon Support Pastor, Mike Bullard titled ‘The Three Hearts’ from said it was ‘eye-opening’ to hear Luke 24: 13-32. The service was the experiences of Indigenous filmed by Youth With A Mission, church members and hopes it as they were producing a short will lead to many conversations biography of Keith with the on how Baptist churches can theme of overcoming life crises best recognise Indigenous with God’s help. culture and people. “He identified how our walk “Our hope is to share their with Jesus is sometimes with a perspectives with all the Baptist ‘sad heart’ and a ‘slow of heart’, but churches in Western Australia, can end up being a ‘burning heart’ helping them in their own local to tell others that Jesus is alive,” setting and on the journey of Mike said. reconciliation generally,” Mike said. In July, members of MOZAIC

Mount Zion Aussie Indigenous travelled to Yangebup Baptist Photo: Mike Bullard Church (MOZAIC) have recently Church during the NAIDOC week Members of Bentley Baptist Church and Mount Zion Aussie Indigenous Church came together for a combined continued their tradition of that was themed ‘Voice. Treaty. service recently concluded with a shared lunch. linking in with mainstream Truth. Let’s work together for a Baptist churches. shared future’. The first was a visit to Bentley The service combined both nations for He has come to heal the banner of the cross of If your church would like to Baptist Church during the Indigenous and mainstream the broken-hearted and set the Calvary as we seek to make link in with MOZAIC, Pastor Keith ‘Grounded in Truth: Walk Together elements, with Keith sharing captives free,” Keith said. Jesus our Lord.” Truscott can be contacted on with Courage’ themed National a message called ‘The Special “We may all come from “We look forward to sharing [email protected] Reconciliation Week in May. Tribal Man’. different countries and tribes, again next year, and we are MOZAIC Pastor, Keith Truscott “We all should share Jesus’ but we can work together open to linking up with other Author – Matthew Chapman highlighted the significance of message together to other with courage … with the best congregations in the future,” this time in the church. families, communities, tribes and voice, treaty and truth under he concluded.

More churches sharing services

Baptist Churches Western Australia (BCWA) has seen a rise in the number of churches using its shared services in recent years.

“In 2015, we offered this service accounting system, payroll, to a church who needed some accounts payable/receivable, additional support in this space, reconciliations, reporting and and in the past four years, this compliance services. number has increased to 26 “Our vision is to be ‘an churches throughout Western empowering movement helping Thinking about switching Australia,” BCWA Head of pastors, ministries, churches Finance and Administration, and their communities say yes Greg Holland said. to Jesus’ and our finance team home care providers? Greg explained that with are helping churches to fulfil this increasing compliance and vision, freeing up people to serve We’re here to help you every step of the way. administration requirements for in other ministry areas,” Greg said. If you’re dissatisfied with the care you’re currently receiving, or if you’re moving churches, volunteers looking after this area were often stretched in For more information about location, it’s easy to make the switch to Baptistcare. their skills and the time required BCWA’s Shared Services, phone to meet their obligations. Doug Patching on 08 6313 6300. • No entry or exit fees and affordable hourly rates. Now, one-fifth of Baptist • We support you to maintain your spiritual wellbeing at home through churches are part of BCWA’s Author – Matthew Chapman our Chaplaincy and pastoral care services. shared services using the Xero • You’ll also get a dedicated Care Manager to look after your needs. Book your obligation free consultation in the comfort of your own home with a Baptistcare home care expert today. Perth Metro – South West – Great Southern – Wheatbelt

1300 660 640

Photo: Matthew Chapman baptistcare.com.au BCWA’s finance team’s commitment to serving local Baptist churches has increased to 26 churches using their accounting services. 4 news

AUGUST 2019 Church leads affordable housing

A Baptist church in Western Australia is inviting investment in a significant housing project adjacent to its High Wycombe worship facility.

Maida Vale Baptist Church is due the whole complex can be used to start building six units and is to achieve a Christian mission,” planning to make contact with he said. people who want to take part in “If that support isn’t its vision. forthcoming, we can fall back On the eve of Homelessness onto running the project as a Week (4 to 10 August), Maida Vale basic real estate exercise, but Baptist Church Senior Pastor why would we do that if we can Rob Douglas explained that use this amazing resource to nearly 10,000 people experience serve Jesus?” homelessness in Western “The church bought the Australia. property many years ago and “Most of us wonder how it’s a privilege to be able to build we can address this problem, on the vision and generosity of but the church has seen the those who have gone before us, potential of playing a small part in by providing housing that will serving our community through support people into the future.” affordable housing,” Rob said. Providing housing is not This year’s theme for unfamiliar to Maida Vale Baptist

Homelessness Week in WA is Church. For over 20 years, its Photo: Srdjan Randjelovic/Shutterstock.com Home, Safe Home. service arm, Maida Vale Baptist Maida Vale Baptist Church is looking to help address homelessness in its community through Project Safe Haven. “It’s appropriate that Project Community Services (MVBCS), Safe Haven is the name we’ve has been operating ten villas in given to our project.” a boutique over 55s retirement Planning for the project village. The village is managed commenced more than four years on behalf of MVBCS by Village ago, and considerable work has Solutions Australia. been undertaken in obtaining Homelessness has been formal approvals. described as one of the most For a number of years, an potent examples of disadvantage old cottage next to the church in the community, and one of the was used to provide housing for most important markers of social people who are in need, including exclusion. a retired missionary couple and A range of different situations a family from Papua New Guinea can lead people to finding who were studying in Perth. themselves in unstable home With the cottage approaching situations, including domestic the end of its useful life, the violence, substance abuse and church investigated how it could unemployment. make better use of the site and If you would like to find out decided to proceed with building more about this project that is six units. showing the love of Jesus to Rob explained that financing some of the most vulnerable the project would require members of our community, investment both in building please contact Maida Vale Baptist the units and in the ongoing Church on 08 9454 4626 or provision of affordable housing. [email protected] “Our vision is that Christians would invest in the project so that

Forming the next generation in Geraldton

With a heart for youth and young adults, Geraldton “They’ve now been granted a Baptist Church has launched a new year-long Permanent Residency Visa and internship program. will join us in October.” The internship includes one day of training, one day of Young people with a pioneering “We’re looking forward to ministry placement, and part- spirit are invited to come, learn FORM starting in February 2020, time work in the local community. to be authentic followers of with young people aged 18 to 35, “We will assist them to live in Jesus and impact the coastal city from across WA and the world,” a tight prayerful community that through an intensive internship Ben said. encourages and supports one called FORM. Geraldton Baptist another to be radical followers of Newlyweds Ben and Grace Church Pastor, Craig Palmer Jesus,” Ben said. Rollett from the UK are coming to said that as a church they lead the training program. had been going deeper in For more information, visit The young couple were part learning about discipleship www.geraldtonbaptist.org.au of a church in Sheffield that over the last four years. invested heavily in building a “The Rolletts’ skills and Author – Craig and

Photo: Janelle Palmer disciple-making culture over passion were a natural fit to help Janelle Palmer Ben and Grace Rollett are moving from the UK to lead FORM internships the last 20 years, including foster emerging leaders of the and impact young adults. FORM internships. next generation,” Craig said. news 5

AUGUST 2019 Be Love Sponsorship Sunday

This year’s Be Love Sponsorship Sunday will be on 11 August, an annual event that celebrates the impact Australians have made on children across the world.

In preparation for this event, “Here was a little boy who Baptist World Aid’s obviously loves his brother greatly, Communication Specialist, who was unable to protect him the Samara Linehan travelled to way he wished to because their Uganda where she met a little family had no money to use for boy named Johnson*, a treating his medical condition.” sponsored child with an But that was before the family incredible story to tell. joined a Baptist World Aid child “Johnson is 14 years old and he sponsorship project. lives with his mum, two brothers, “Through the project, my sister and grandma,” Samara said. brother was identified among “Because there is little work the children with disabilities,” in their immediate region, Johnson said. Johnson’s father is forced to work “We were able to receive a goat, away from home.” which reproduced, and we sold For Johnson, poverty has one of them so we could treat my meant that he and his family have brother – I was so happy.” always struggled to meet their Johnson’s mother also joined basic needs in life. a project savings group, where she “Life was difficult because was able to take small loans and I did not have anything to eat,” receive valuable training on how Johnson said. to farm and run a small business. “When there is no food, I have This helps her to pay Johnson’s no energy. When I don’t have school fees. school fees, I try to go to school Now Johnson can attend even though they send me away.” school without being sent home, This was not the only weight while his brother is receiving the

on the young boy’s shoulders. treatment he needs. With more Photo: Agnes Burrell “My brother suffers from food to eat, Johnson has the Johnson and his family are one of many whose lives have been impacted through child sponsorship. epilepsy,” he explained. energy to study and to pursue his “I knew there was nothing to dream of becoming a teacher. thank them for the part that they If you would like to do the * Name changed for child use for treating him and I knew “I was honoured to make played in it.” same for others like Johnson protection reasons. that he would die.” contact with Johnson’s Australian “But really, this is the this Be Love Sponsorship “Hearing Johnson recall his child sponsors when I arrived incredible effect of child Sunday, visit baptistworldaid. constant worry for his brother home,” Samara said. sponsorship – not just happy org.au/sponsorship so candidly moved me deeply,” “I was able to share this children, but stronger families and Samara reflected. incredible story with them and flourishing communities.”

Perth hosts Asia Pacific Scholarship opens doors Baptist Federation meetings Five Aboriginal university students Baptist Churches its relationship with Transform have recently had their Western Australia Aid International. dreams of graduation hosted the leadership of “In the last two decades, the region has been impacted boosted by the 2019 the Asia Pacific Baptist by natural disasters, causing Minnie Bairstow Federation (APBF) for substantial loss of life and Aboriginal Scholarship. a taskforce meeting in subsequent impact on the Perth in June. welfare of survivors,” Mark said. “As the overarching body The scholarship was established representing Baptists in through a bequest by Minnie The Federation represents the region, our hope is that Bairstow to assist Aboriginal Baptists from over 33,000 by developing a stronger tertiary students facing the

churches, 59 conventions and relationship with Transform often challenging cost of Photo: Sally Phu 21 countries with over five Aid International, we will be housing. Administered under Accommodation scholarship recipients with BCWA Director of million members across the better placed to help when aid is the umbrella of Baptist Churches Ministries, Mark Wilson (third from left) and Minnie Bairstow Trust Asia-Pacific region. required in the region.” Western Australia, the recently Chairman, Andrew Johnson (far right). APBF Regional Vice Alongside developing restructured scholarship offers President and Baptist Churches the relationship, the APBF up to $10,000 per year towards enabling courses across four The five were selected from Western Australia Director of is developing its future accommodation costs for the Perth universities. an exceptional field. Ministries, Pastor Mark Wilson plans to develop leadership duration of the student’s course. The scholarship not only offers “The standard was spoke of the honour of hosting in the region. The 2019 recipients are financial relief but also affirms the impressive and we were the meeting in Perth. “Through empowering Koori Ngemba woman Jaye Lee decision to take on the challenges stunned by the number of This was the first time the leaders in Baptist churches, Snowden, Thalanyji woman of tertiary study. applicants, particularly for a APBF leadership had met in our prayers are that we can see Taylah Thompson-Patfield, “Everything is falling into new scholarship,” Minnie Perth, with two days dedicated to transformed communities in the Arrernte man Corey Dalton, place for me,” Jaye said at a Bairstow Trust Chairman discussing the region’s strategic region,” Mark shared. Warramunga man Aaron gathering for the scholarship Andrew Johnson said. direction , including holistic Sutton and Koori Nyungar man recipients in early July. “The need for this kind of transformational development Author – Matthew Chapman Tyler Kelly. They are enrolled “I feel like I have found my support is clearly huge.” along with the enhancement of in psychology, criminology, niche and I know I can make a medicine and Aboriginal difference for our people.” Author – Katrina Drayton 6 news

AUGUST 2019 Age is no barrier to friendships

Friendships established by eight 17 year old Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys have made a big difference in the lives of Busselton’s most senior residents.

The group was in the South West for a leadership camp run by the Clontarf Foundation, and spent the day at Baptistcare William Carey Court Residential Care undertaking voluntary maintenance work and playing bingo, chatting and sharing afternoon tea with some of the elderly residents. Though the age difference might seem to be an impediment to conversation flow and connection, the opposite was true with both generations being entertained and enthralled with each other’s stories and energy. Clontarf Foundation Regional

Manager - WA Southern, Michael Baptistcare Photo: Lay said the visit gave the boys Rhys Thomas, Talvin Stubbs and Luke Gouma work together to refurbish a wooden bench at Baptistcare William Carey Court, Busselton. the opportunity to relate to an older generation on a social level. “Some of the boys said the enjoyed the visit. She was time spent at Baptistcare William impressed with the boys’ care Carey Court was the best part towards the seniors taking part in of their three day camp,” the activities. International gathering of Michael said. “Some of our residents “Coming from a culture that don’t have family nearby respects elders, the boys were and thoroughly enjoyed the Messy Church in awe listening to tales from opportunity to talk one on one the past.” with the boys,” Ros said. Research shows that when “It was wonderful to see A growing number of generations come together the smiles that the young ones churches in Western everyone can benefit with clear bought to the faces of Australia have become and positive outcomes for all. our residents.” Seniors have a lifetime of “They also gave our much- a part of a worldwide knowledge to share and the loved timber benches in the movement that is interaction between generations outdoor area a new lease of changing the face of can help young people develop life which will be a permanent the church. respect and empathy for the reminder of their very special visit.” older generation. Baptistcare William Carey For more information, visit Messy Church has been Court Lifestyle Coordinator, Ros baptistcare.com.au described as the most successful McDonald said it was rewarding fresh expression of church in to see how much the residents Author – Alice Hennessy recent years. Messy Church Regional Coordinators for Western Australia, Rob and Robyn Douglas, attended the Messy Church International Conference in May this year, along with 220 people from around the world.

“Messy Church started in the Photo: Rob Douglas UK in 2004, but now there are Messy Church International Conference took place just north of London nearly 4,000 congregations in in the UK this year. 20 countries around the world. The most exciting thing is that it has crossed over denominational Rob explained that Maida Vale Baptist Church barriers,” Rob said. the conference provided is hosting a Messy Muster on “We now have 18 Messy opportunities for delegates to 21 and 22 September to bring Churches in Western Australia discover new ideas, to network together local congregations and representing Baptist, Churches with other groups, and to worship provide information for churches of Christ, Uniting, Anglican, and pray together. wanting to start Messy Church. Salvation Army, and Full Gospel.” “It was great to see the way Rob, Senior Pastor at Maida in which Messy Church has For more information, Vale Baptist Church, said Messy been a boost to many churches search Messy Muster at Church had grown as a second that were struggling to survive, www.eventbrite.com.au congregation at Maida Vale and and the significant growth that was now one of the church’s has occurred in countries like most effective outreach and Germany, the Netherlands, and discipleship activities. Sweden,” Rob said. news 7

AUGUST 2019 500,000 join Alpha Australia

Alpha Australia recently invitation to gather around a table announced that in community,” Melinda explained. 500,000 Australians Alpha Australia reported that 1,260 churches from almost every have explored faith in denomination hosted Alpha Jesus through Alpha sessions in 2018. The number of since it was established churches running two or more twenty years ago. Alpha courses per year have also increased, indicating that many are doubling their reach with An estimated 24 million people those enquiring of Jesus. have attended Alpha globally, “The first thing I noticed was and despite reports of the decline that they were very welcoming of Christianity in Australia over and very loving,” Phill, a recent decades, Alpha has seen recent Alpha participant in the reverse, with over 350,000 Queensland, shared. people in attendance over a 20 “I liked the topics; they opened year period up to 2013. Shortly my mind up – I remember after this point, a ten year goal to thinking, wow, this is probably the reach one million people was cast. best thing I’ve ever done.” “Thirteen million “My world was collapsing Australians identify as Christian around me. I had lived relying on in the most recent census, but my own strength. Now I can lean many don’t know what that on Jesus.” is,” Alpha National Director, Phill is representative of the Melinda Dwight said. 150,000 who have attended an “Together we can engage Alpha in the last five years –

our communities in a faith- bringing the total to 500,000. Photo: Alpha stretching goal.” Alpha founder Nicky Gumbel Record numbers have joined Alpha in Australia. “Whatever people’s also celebrated the Australian background or language, milestone. wherever they work, live or study, “Alpha Australia, what a story! we can gather to eat and explore Five hundred thousand people faith in Jesus Christ.” have now done Alpha in Australia While Alpha has significantly thanks to God and the Holy Spirit Inspiring healthier updated its resources in recent who’s behind this,” Nicky said. years with a new Alpha Film Series “There is something and Alpha Youth Series, its model extraordinary happening relations in leadership remains unchanged. It is an in Australia which you’re all interactive series held over eight making possible.” to 11 weeks where participants are “As you keep going, you will invited to share a meal, watch a never know, this side of heaven, video and openly ask questions the impact that you are having.” that the video topic raises. “We love Australia, we love “Alpha is an opportunity for what you’re doing and we are so a spiritual conversation; a place excited hearing all the stories of where you can laugh together, lives being changed!” eat together, ask anything and explore life’s questions – it’s an Author – Alice Staines

briefs

Baptisms “We will miss Anina’s On 26 May, Looty Cook, contribution, but I am also very Shaun Robson and Ashton Vost confident she will continue were baptised at Mount Pleasant with the same passion and

Baptist Church’s Coolbellup dedication in her call to serve Photo: Global Leadership Network Australia Campus. churches and others as she Nancy Beach encouraged leaders to develop healthier male-female relationships within the church at a recent moves into a new season.” seminar in Perth. Baptist Financial Services staff Kununurra serves change local community In partnership with Global Leadership Network Australia, Perth recently hosted Anina Findling has concluded Members of Kununurra former Willow Creek Pastor, Nancy Beach and her Leading Well seminar. as the National Networking Baptist Church served their Manager with Baptist Financial local community parkrun Services (BFS), having served on Saturday 11 May, as the To develop healthier male-female Nancy, author of Gifted to not only in Australia but also at a with them since May 2013. runners celebrated their 50th relationships, Nancy issued the Lead: The Art of Leading as a global level. Baptist Churches Western parkrun. At the conclusion of challenge to leaders attending Woman in the Church, was on “People were engaged and Australia Director of Ministries, the five-kilometre timed run, the seminar: “Are you taking Willow Creek’s staff under Bill knew that this conversation Mark Wilson commented, participants were treated to a intentional steps to be an advocate Hybels and was one of numerous needed to be had,” Karen said. “Anina has demonstrated bacon and egg roll served by for emerging women leaders like women who revealed the extent “It was done with respect, amazing passion and members of the church. Phoebe in the book of Romans?” of his abuse. knowing that we need to move commitment to the purpose “We are thankful to God for “Men, I don’t know if you Global Leadership Network forward with these issues in of BFS, in supporting and this opportunity to serve the realise the power that you hold Australia Board Member, Karen the church.” resourcing churches and other community,” Kununurra Baptist to choose to call out leadership Wilson said that the seminars’ Christian ministries, as well Church Pastor David Wager said. in women or not. In many ways, greatest benefit was that men and Author – Matthew Chapman as engaging strategically with your hand is on the door; you can women came together to have a clients and stakeholders.” open it or not,” she said. timely and crucial conversation, 8 feature

AUGUST 2019

I still remember the day. A woman had moved into the town where I was pastoring, and on arriving at the church, announced that she was trying to build a new life for herself. She and her husband had separated after 30 years of marriage. He was now living with a much younger woman, and she doubted he would ever return to her – though she would be happy if she was wrong. She wasn’t. For better, but not worse: Marriage and Divorce in the 21st Century

After 18 months of agonising and all represents an enormous amount of fault that was found. For example, a event. Burning meals or deciding attempts at reconciliation failing, she pain, especially when you factor in that wife who burnt her husband’s meal someone else is more attractive cuts filed for divorce. On the day her case approximately half of the marriages could constitute as finding something no ice with Jesus. But adultery, He was to be heard in court, she asked if involve dependent children. unpleasing. This made divorce a lot concedes, breaks troth in the most I and another person from the church What guidance do we find from the easier, the husband (and yes, there was destructive way. It is a betrayal at the would go with her for moral support. We Bible on this topic? a strong male bias at the time) still had deepest level. agreed. We waited for four hours before Malachi 2:16 sets the stage: “‘I hate to provide some justification for the People routinely misunderstand the her case was called. She went to the dock divorce,’ says the Lord God of Israel.” divorce. Reasons like burnt meals and an passage and start to try and put Jesus and her lawyer stood to present her case. God doesn’t say: “I hate people who are untidy home sufficed. in a box. So it’s only adultery … nothing The divorce was uncontested, he said. divorced.” He says: “I hate divorce.” The school of Akiba was even more else ever. And there have been instances The husband accepted the terms of the The logical question is, “Why?” The permissive. A wife might be unpleasing where women have felt obligated to stay divorce and a maintenance agreement answer is not hard to find. I hate divorce to her husband because he had found in their marriages because although had been reached. The relevant papers because it falls so far short of what I want someone he considered fairer or more their husbands have battered them were before the magistrate. for people. I hate it because of the pain it attractive than her. The petition for physically and emotionally and have The magistrate glanced at them and causes. I hate it because of what it does to divorce did not have to be linked to created a psychological state in the asked her if she wanted the divorce. In a families. I hate it because it undermines anything she had done. She might be home that is very damaging to their soft voice, she said ‘yes’. the concept of covenant, which is at the unpleasing simply because he wanted children, they have never slept with “Divorce granted. Maintenance as per heart of my commitment to the world. someone else. anyone else. Some people have said… terms of agreement,” the magistrate said. But despite all the hate of divorce, the Essentially the Pharisees were but there is no adultery, so divorce is not “Next case please.” Bible philosophically accepts that divorce saying to Jesus: “So who is right, an option. It took less than one minute. will take place, with Jesus citing the Shammai, Hillel or Akiba?” Whoever They miss the point of the passage. I looked at her. I’ve never seen famous exception clause of adultery as He chose, He was going to offend a fair Jesus is saying that the goal of marriage anyone look so shattered. Her life had being a possible justification for it. section of the listeners. is marriage. You can’t take a Rabbi fallen apart. The court was disinterested Jesus refuses to plunge straight into Akibah approach – find a more attractive in her story; there were many cases to Jesus and the exception clause the answer, but rather reminds them of woman and divorce your wife. But He get through. Divorce granted … Next case We need to consider Jesus’ attitude to the sacred nature of marriage. Ultimately does acknowledge that under extreme please. In one devastating minute, the divorce. His teaching in Matthew 19:3-12 it is God who brings people together, circumstances, there may be sufficient dreams of 30 years crumbled in a heap. is enormously important. therefore, “Whom God has joined justification for divorce. Even as He Divorce – perhaps the saddest song The context is that some Pharisees together, let man not separate”. stresses the need for the focus to be in all the world. “After all,” she said, “If he came and asked Jesus if divorce was The implication is clear. Jesus is on marriage and not divorce, Jesus, had died, I could have kept pretending legal for any and every reason – a loaded saying: You are wanting to talk about knowing all too well the unacceptable that he still loved me. This is a death question. Deuteronomy 24:1-4 was divorce. I want to start with marriage. conditions under which some live, without any consolation.” probably in mind, where Moses makes The goal of marriage is that two become points to acceptable, though sad, What are we to make of divorce? From provision for divorce, stating that a man one. They aren’t two separate people grounds for divorce. a pastoral perspective, it presents huge may divorce his wife if she has become anymore. The goal of marriage is The right way to interpret Jesus’ challenges and invites the church to displeasing to him because he finds marriage, not divorce. answer is to see it as setting the bar. explore what it means to truly be family to something indecent in her. This is where we must begin. Too Akibah and Hillel set it far too low. If you one another. Predictably, people started to often our starting point is: Under what are going to get divorced it needs to be For many readers, divorce is not a ask: “What does finding something circumstances can we justify divorce? for something really serious. It would topic for study – it is a life story. And truth displeasing or indecent mean?” In Jesus’ But the right question is: How can we have to be adultery … or more. And yes, to tell, it is a life story experienced by far day, there were three schools of thought help create conditions that will make it if your marriage places you or your too many people. My own parents were modelled on three of the most prominent possible for this marriage to survive? children in physical danger, that counts. divorced, so I am very conscious that life Jewish rabbis. That’s the thing to strive for. But don’t view this as a box-ticking does not always go to plan. The school of Shammai taught that it For all that, Jesus is not naive. He exercise – ‘yes, I think my situation is According to Australian statistics, meant divorce could only be in the event doesn’t refuse to recognise divorce. He bad enough’, or ‘pity, but not yet bad roughly one in three Australian marriages of adultery. partially aligns himself with a Jewish enough.’ Go back to the heart of what end in divorce. Though Australia does The school of Hillel was more school of thought; given the three Jesus is saying. The goal of marriage is not feature in the top ten countries permissive. Finding something choices, He selects Rabbi Shammai as marriage, not divorce. And the goal of for divorce, a rate of one in three still unpleasing could refer to some trivial right. Divorce can only be for an extreme marriage is to effectively become one. feature 9

AUGUST 2019

For better, but not worse: Marriage and Divorce in the 21st Century

What does it mean to embrace the What to do when it really is over less because your marriage failed. Look goal of marriage as living as one? But what if it really is over? to God’s future with hope. Like any other goal, it means we have to work at it. Step 1: Ask, “Have I done all I can to reach Step 7: Own what was good in the past. Let me put it differently. If you want the goal of being one?” Don’t let the ultimate failure of your to be a great athlete, you have to set goals marriage rob you of the joy gained from for yourself. There would be fitness goals. Step 2: If it really is over, ask, “How can happier times in the past. Those happier There would never be ‘unfitness’ goals. If I end this in a way that honours Jesus moments were real, so embrace them your approach to getting into the national and preserves the wellbeing of us all?” with gratitude. team was: “I wonder how slow and Part of the ‘all’ is often children. When overweight I can be and still be selected resentment is high, it is common for one Step 8: Keep trusting God. for the team? I wonder how often I can partner to explode about the other to their be responsible for the other team scoring children. When you hear yourself about Being a friend and still keep my place?” Do you think to say, “Your father always …” or “Your We live in a fallen world. God hates you’d make the side? mother is …” it is time to shut your mouth. divorce, but He recognises it. Under Jesus is saying: Keep the goal in sharp certain circumstances it is the right focus. Never ask: ‘How can I get out?’ but Step 3: Recognise you will be vulnerable. decision. God is fully aware that many rather, ‘What steps can I take to make sure Make as few major decisions as possible divorced people never made the decision I stay in?’ and don’t rush into another relationship. to get divorced – it was a decision This has practical implications. As you imposed on them, or one reached with look at your marriage or that of another, Step 4: Set standards for yourself. When the greatest reluctance. And God always you might say: “Brian, we’re beyond the hurt, we often let ourselves go. No matter wants to work for good in our lives. bar set even by Rabbi Shammai. So that how painful, embrace the future. Groom To cooperate with God means to means it is over.” yourself well. Keep the house tidy. Get fit. help those who are in pain or trapped in Jesus would say: “Not necessarily. Part of setting standards is not to allow bitterness. Whatever people are going The goal of marriage is marriage. There yourself to become lax sexually. Make a through, remember to be a friend. God is has been a terrible block and something firm decision to set a high standard. the one who judges all hearts. Don’t try and ruining your relationship … but start take on God’s role. Show the love of Christ there. Can you change anything so that Step 5: Learn the lessons from this to all who need it. Tomorrow it might well you slip back beneath the bar … so you phase. Even if 99.9 percent of the blame be you, or me. We all always need the stop worrying about the bar and simply for the breakdown was your partner’s, grace, forgiveness and love of God. want to stay married?” Often the way what have you learnt and what will you God bless you – whatever your forward is to work really hard on what has do differently? Claim Romans 8:28, challenges might be. gone wrong. not as trite escapism but as a profound In ethics, we draw not only from the promise. Good can come even from Author – Dr Brian Harris Scriptures but also from the wisdom pain. In what way can this experience and traditions of the past. The compilers make you a stronger, kinder, more Dr Brian Harris is the Principal of of the traditional wedding vows got it Christlike person? Vose Seminary and Pastor at Large for right when they asked us to pledge ‘for the Carey Group. better or for worse’. They never assumed Step 6: Acknowledge your regrets. that it would always be for better, but Regret is inevitable, but don’t let regret To read the full blog post from advocated sticking at it as a means for dominate your life. Regret is the lot of Brian Harris, visit brianharrisauthor. overcoming difficulties. those who can only look to the past. com/for-better- but-not-worse-marriage- It leads to bitterness and in the end and-divorce-in-the-21st-century/ becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you don’t let go of the past you will never be able to embrace the new. Christians are people who know that the best is yet to be. God doesn’t love you 10 world news

AUGUST 2019 Protestors sing ‘hallelujah’

The hymn Sing proposed changes that would Hallelujah to the Lord expand the case-by-case has become an unofficial extradition arrangement to mainland China. anthem to extradition The Bureau also proposed bill demonstrations in removing the Hong Kong Hong Kong, which have Legislative Council’s role in rallied up to two million reviewing these individual executive requests which is protesters. “a crucial layer of governmental and public oversight,” Human “Christians started turning up at Rights Watch stated in a protests to sing Sing Hallelujah media release. to the Lord in case there was Since the proposed changes violence when police wanted were announced, city residents to disperse protesters … Once have protested the changes with they started singing, everyone rally numbers initially starting in became calm,” 28 year old their hundreds, before peaking Christian activist Freeman on 16 June with an estimated two Leung described in an interview million in attendance. with the ABC’s Bill Birtles. In recent years, the Chinese “It’s a very simple hymn, Communist Party has suppressed everyone can sing it,” Hong Kong non-government approved Federation of Catholic Students churches, causing additional fear Chairperson, Edwin Chow said in for Hong Kong Christians. an interview with the ABC. “Some Christians, including Edwin shared that some non- me, are afraid that if the Christians had been singing extradition bill is passed, it ‘hallelujah’ alongside believers could affect freedom of religion

to receive additional protection in Hong Kong and freedom of Photo: Pxhere from the police, as religious religious activities,” political An estimated two million people in Hong Kong came together to protest proposed extradition laws on 16 June. gatherings cannot be considered activist and devout Christian an illegal assembly. Joshua Wong said. The demonstrations are The protestors have focused against a proposed extradition much of their complaints on law that would allow requests Hong Kong’s top leader, Chief from authorities for suspects Executive of Hong Kong, Carrie School partnership to accused of criminal activities to Lam – a devout Catholic. be extradited to mainland China. On 15 June, Mrs Lam Under current legislation, apologised for her handling of support mission work the Hong Kong Government can the bill, announcing a pause in its only extradite people to countries passage through legislation. She it has a standing extradition promised to listen better to the Global Interaction agreement with. “different views of society”. and Christian Schools However, in February, the Australia have formed Hong Kong Security Bureau Author – Matthew Chapman a new partnership with an aim to foster collaboration between Baptist World Alliance local schools and Emeritus passes away at 80 global mission. The agreement was signed in May this year. Rev. Dr Denton Lotz, of the second half of the 20th General Secretary century,” BWA General Secretary, Emeritus of the Baptist Rev. Dr Elijah Brown said. Global Interaction Western “His profound leadership Australia State Director, Dan World Alliance (BWA) touched countless lives around McGrechan is excited about the and faithful servant the world as he championed possibilities going forward. of the Lord, died at his evangelism, religious freedom, “This opens the door to share home in Forestdale, and the ministry of the global our knowledge and resources to Baptist family.” further the mission God has given Massachusetts, USA, at His friendships included each of us, locally and globally,” Photo: Cam Beeck the age of 80 on 23 April. globally-recognised faith Dan said. Teachers now have the opportunity to serve cross-cultural workers leaders like Rev. Billy Graham, The partnership will see Global in Mozambique. In nearly two decades of service as well as leaders of state Interaction provide schools with as General Secretary (1988 to such as former United States training in cultural intelligence 2007), Rev. Lotz served alongside President Jimmy Carter. and strategic mission, while with husband Ben and their Yawo people. There are so many five BWA presidents and 71 vice- Upon his retirement from connecting school communities three children. ministry opportunities in front of presidents, as well as numerous the BWA in 2007, Graham with God’s work overseas. “Having a teacher would enable us at the moment”, Bek said. commission chairs and staff wrote, “Your strong leadership A key opportunity from this me to spend more time learning “With kids’ education, members. He led preparations for and personal faith has been an partnership is the sending of the language so that I can have we are limited in how many four Baptist World Congresses inspiration and blessing to me.” teachers overseas to assist with more meaningful conversations opportunities we can take.” with a cumulative attendance of The Baptist World Alliance teaching the children of cross- with the locals,” she said. “Teaching support would 42,000 people from more than called upon all Baptists to cultural workers. This provides Bek Falconer and husband enable us to say ‘yes’ to more 100 countries. He oversaw 20 remember and honour his a rich professional development Scott, also living in Mozambique, invitations.” General Council meetings as well legacy and to pray for his family. experience for teachers and are raising five children while Teachers interested in serving as 16 Annual Gatherings. makes a real difference to families trying to embrace as many families overseas, or having Global “Denton Lotz was one of the Author – Matthew Chapman living overseas. ministry opportunities as they can. Interaction involved in their most significant Baptist leaders Samantha Good lives among “God is doing something school, can contact Dan at the Yawo people in Mozambique really significant among the [email protected]. world news 11

AUGUST 2019 Gettys revive singing in church

Nashville-based musicians Keith and Kristyn Getty, perhaps best known for the worship song In Christ Alone, are reigniting a passion for singing in the families of the church through their Sing! initiative and arena tour.

In June this year, the Gettys launched a global arena tour which kicked off in their hometown of Belfast, Northern Ireland. The first arena event featured performances from Keith and Kristyn, including a 1,000-voice choir and band. Ten thousand people listened to a fusion of

Celtic, bluegrass, Americana, Photo: Gareth Russell modern and classical music, as Keith and Kristyn Getty at the launch of their global arena tour in Belfast, Northern Ireland on 15 June. well as a sermon from bestselling author John Piper. “A congregation that gains transforms individuals and a greater understanding of why families, and strengthens and they sing won’t dread a worship encourages congregational service, with arms crossed and singing across our churches.” Rising star prays to God shoulders slumped, but see With a vision to “remind singing as an opportunity to church members why the church proclaim the gospel together should sing, when the church Fifteen year old rising “We don’t really pray about When asked about this at the in obedience to God,” their should sing, and how the church tennis star, Cori Gauff, victory … just that me and my post-match press conference, she website stated. should sing,” Sing! has seen who beat Venus Williams opponent stay safe.” shared: “I was just thanking God The tour will include 30 thousands of conference visitors Gauff, who goes by her for this opportunity.” arena events across the USA and since its launch and has even 6-4 6-4 at Wimbledon, nickname ‘Coco’, broke into selected European countries over been famously recognised by the said she approaches tears after defeating five-time Author – Ramona Humphreys the next three years, including Queen. every match with an Wimbledon winner Venus Nashville, Tennessee where the In 2017, Keith was made an attitude of prayer. Williams and then appeared to say initiative was launched in 2017 Officer of the Most Excellent a prayer. with their first Sing! conference Order of the British Empire and book. (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for The youngest ever player at “The Sing! initiative began as his contribution to “music and Wimbledon told reporters at a a celebration of 500 years since modern hymn writing,” marking post-match press conference that Martin Luther brought the church the first time the award had been she prays before every match and back to congregational singing,” given to an individual involved thanks God for the opportunities Keith said. in the world of contemporary He provides. “We share his passion that church music. “Before every match since theology should be sung, and I was eight, my Dad and I so through this arena tour we Author – Ramona Humphreys say a prayer together,” the want to celebrate how worship American said.

Our vision at Riverton Bappst Community Church is to be a biblical, Spirit-led, evangelissc, caring community of all ages and many cultures.

We are seeking an outstanding candidate to lead our Outreach Ministry, especially among new, bilingual Australians. Competency in Mandarin or Cantonese in addiion to English will be well regarded, though not essennal.

Detailed informaaon about the role and how to apply is available on our website at www.rivo.org.au/employment

If you believe you meet the seleccon criteria, and if you share our vision and can lead a

team to strategically achieve it, we’d love to hear from you. Photo: Creativecommons.org Cori Gauff at the 2019 Roland-Garros Tournament qualifying rounds. 12 in conversation

AUGUST 2019 A new season of youth ministry

In mid-2018, Carey Baptist Church under the leadership of Senior Pastor Peter Scott and the youth team, Pastors Nick Harris and Ben O’Reilly, shifted the focus of their youth ministry at their Harrisdale campus.

As one of the largest hybrid Baptist can you share what changes church and school ministries you put in place to see greater in the state, the Carey group of Kingdom growth? ministries encompasses two We spent a long time praying church and school locations, over the ministry, asking God along with an early learning what He wanted to do with it, centre and café. This variety of and seeking His direction for the ministries enables the church to future. Over about eight months, minister to a wide community, but after many prayer meetings does this always mean that lives and conversations with our are changed for Christ? Vanessa Senior Pastor and our youth Klomp from The Advocate caught leadership team, we captured a up with Nick and Ben to discuss new vision for what our youth the changes that have taken place. ministry might look like. The biggest fundamental change Ben and Nick, from an outsiders’ was to move our focus from an perspective last year, many evangelism-based ministry to one would describe the youth grounded in making and growing ministry at Carey as being large disciples of Jesus. We always and successful. How would you had a discipleship pathway, but a have described it? shift for us was when as a whole Absolutely it was! After starting church, we sensed God leading us as a youth ministry in our school to focus on discipleship. So in this

over a decade ago, over time it new environment, with far less Photo: Melanie McNeil-Windle became a ministry attracting up leadership resources than we had Ben O’Reilly is one of the youth pastors at Carey Baptist Church. to 150 young people from our local in the past, our evangelistic drive community every Friday night. would have hindered our ability The ministry was attractional by to engage in a deeper discipleship reshaping what we were doing and building God’s Kingdom. being received well, what needs nature. We were speaking the process. We wanted to be in step to match God’s leading over our Change can be embraced or to change? Not the message, but gospel message into so many with what our wider church was church as a whole. They saw an feared, but part of the process the method of communicating young people’s lives and seeing stepping into. So by relaunching opportunity to get back to what is having an open imagination it. As youth leaders we are always a huge impact from that, with our youth ministry we would be they felt called to do – connect for what could potentially be. We considering that people hear and many youth coming to know able to align it with what God is relationally with young people, are learning to ask the question, experience things through the Jesus, young people stepping up currently doing across all of Carey. speak God’s truth into their lives, ‘what is God doing in this next lens of their current situation and as youth leaders, and seeing God’s We have placed an intentional and help nurture their faith. season?’ more often. And we want environment. In order for us to Kingdom being built. focus on creating a space for to connect with that. What makes better help them grow closer to youth to discover and embrace How are things going now? change hard is when we don’t Jesus, we need to be aware of the With a successful youth ministry, their own Christian faith in a Things are great! Our look at where people or society is classic teaching mantra – start not why would you see the need for fun and nurturing environment youth are enjoying the new at and how they will receive the where you want the youth to be, change? through community and ministry and leaders are really message we are sharing. If the but start with where the youth are We had many years of discipleship. Our new model sees connecting with our youth. message is true, but the way we at and teach them from there. positive growth and fruit from us based in small groups while Parents are more engaged in are communicating it is no longer our youth ministry. However also doing big group activities. what we are doing now than in the last few years, while we ever before. We are able to saw the same gospel message How were these changes spend more time building the going out, we weren’t seeing received by your community? mentoring relationship and as much impact from it, nor In the broader community unpacking faith with young To find your local as many people saying ‘yes’ to outside of Carey, we found people. We feel like we are Jesus. The reasons for this were affirmation for what we had positioned for something Baptist church visit twofold. Our youth demographic run in the past, and a sense of greater than what we have had changed and their loss that what we ran on Friday experienced in the past, with baptistwa.asn.au responsiveness to our style of nights would no longer be the our current generation of youth ministry was different. Alongside same. From within our church having such huge potential to this, seasons were changing community there was an initial grow and change the world in our youth leadership team. sense of, ‘why would you close themselves for Jesus. A generation of our young a large and successful youth adults, many of whom were ministry?’ Yet as we walked the In Ecclesiastes 3, the writer talks youth leaders, started moving church through our journey and about there being seasons. Do to different cities, states and they saw this wasn’t the end of you think that the church in countries for university, work our youth ministry, but rather a general is good at identifying or ministry opportunities, or changing of seasons, our changes the seasons of ministry, allowing they were part of our church were well received. As we moved one thing to come to an end, plant. They saw their time in closer to the relaunch date, we while birthing something new? youth ministry was coming to began to engage parents in ways It would be hard for us to an end. This meant we had far we had never done before. We comment on the broader church, less leaders, yet our ministry were able to bring them into the but for us in our own context we remained the same size and we relaunch process and they were found through this process that were unable to meet the needs excited for the new shape of the it can be hard to let things go, such a ministry demanded. We youth ministry. Our youth leaders especially when they have been were no longer able to be kicking were excited for this new chapter successful for so long. But we the Kingdom goals, building too. The team was reinvigorated, discovered that when we open meaningful relationships with as the shift to be more discipleship ourselves up to the possibilities youth, and impacting lives like focused was something that of what God is laying before us, we once did. resonated well with them. They the road ahead is full of so much Having made these observations, saw this not as a closure but rather potential for growing disciples growth 13

AUGUST 2019 One day at a time

“Then he said to the expected to grow and learn to do Paul shares his struggles in crowd, ‘If any of you things for themselves until they Romans 7:15-25, his big problem wants to be my follower, too, have to deny themselves and is, ‘I’. In Romans 6:6 Paul shows care for their children. us the solution: the death of who you must give up your People don’t always like Jesus we were before Christ. When own way, take up your and when you have Jesus written we pick up our cross, we are cross daily, and follow all over your life, they won’t putting to death our old selves so me.’” [Luke 9:23, NLT] always like you. Mark 10:28-30 that we may live in Christ – you promises that sacrifices for God can’t have the caterpillar and the will be met with an abundance butterfly at the same time. Jesus said we should live day but also, persecutions. Balancing God wants us to live in by day. He didn’t just die so we those two is a never-ending victory, above our unresolved would do religious things on a exercise. Consider when Joseph’s circumstances. The Christian Sunday. He died to give us new father made him the many- life is not pain-free but it can be life. Every day. coloured coat. Joseph wore it but joyful. Our old self dies a little To deny ourselves means we it brought persecution from his each day [1 Corinthians 15:31], we give up things for Christ. It’s also brothers. He considered pleasing see the purpose of the process accepting persecution for having his father more important than [2 Corinthians 4:10-11] which Jesus in our lives. It’s a shock pleasing his brothers. is more of Jesus manifested when we face opposition to our Following Jesus will cost in us. Our ego does not enjoy stand for Him, but He warned us you something; you cannot decreasing but when we make the this was part of following Him. follow Him without self-denial. decision to accept this, Jesus sets The glory of any life is not The thing that we struggle us free [Galatians 2:20]. the accomplishments but the to ‘deny’ is different for each sacrifice. Jesus’ life is defined person. God doesn’t just call us Author – Phil Pringle by the sacrifice He made on the to give up the things that are cross. He calls us to do the same bad for us but also, things that Phil Pringle is the Founder and every day. This ‘cross’ doesn’t just benefit us. Our circumstances Leader of C3 Church Global, an ‘fall’ on us. We have to actually are no indication of what we are international movement of over pick it up. This is a path to growth. struggling with because rich or 500 churches, and the Senior Babies begin life depending poor, we all struggle with our Minister of C3 Church in Sydney.

on their parents, but they are human condition. Photo: Min C Chiu/Shutterstock

A strategy to boost thankfulness

It’s not difficult to notice when authentic gratitude is lacking in our homes. I have come to recognise that an indulgent life doesn’t make kids happy. The ‘give up’ strategy is a quick gratitude booster that any family can use when gratitude is lacking. It requires us to take something away from our children’s lives, until their appreciation for it increases again.

Familiarity blindsides many of iPhone and a case, but they decide us, and sometimes imagining to take it out of the case and it something is gone is enough to Familiarity accidently gets smashed on the make you appreciate it. I know ground, the subtraction strategy someone who imagines every blindsides might help. Going without a day that their loved ones die so many of us, phone for a while may encourage he doesn’t take them for granted. them to take care of it next time. I’m not sure if I would want to and sometimes The same may apply if they keep visualise my husband and kids losing something you paid for. dying each day, but every now and imagining Don’t jump in and financially bail then it pays to stop and take stock something is them out, as that approach won’t of what life would feel like if they teach gratitude. were gone. gone is enough This is a powerful truth The ‘give up’ strategy reminds which will help guide your daily me of the way I used to rotate my to make you parenting – our children will children’s toys when they were appreciate it. eventually lose what they aren’t little. It was especially helpful after grateful for. Christmas when their toy box was so full they couldn’t find anything. For more information, visit I had about three groups of toys www.michellemitchell.org which I would swap regularly. I am going to take that away.” Two would stay in the cupboard, In fact, research says that is not Author – Michelle Mitchell packed away, until the novelty a bad idea. We can temporarily had worn off the ones they were give up something and then Michelle Mitchell is the author currently playing with. Each time reintroduce it at a later date. If of several books, including

I brought a different set of toys our children were to spend a few Everyday Resilience: Helping Photo: National Day of Thanks down from the cupboard, it felt weeks a year living with someone kids handle friendship drama, like Christmas. I always found else, or in a Third World country, academic pressure and the Michelle Mitchell reflects when they had too many toys, it would undoubtedly boost their self-doubt of growing up. She on a strategy she uses to they lost interest in all of them. We appreciation for what they do have is also a speaker, educator and increase thankfulness. make it hard for our children to be at home. an ambassador for Australia’s grateful by giving them too much. The perfect time to use this National Day of Thanks. We might try and use the strategy is when our children ‘give up’ strategy with our kids don’t take care of their belongings. by saying, “If you aren’t thankful, For example, if your child has an 14 arts

AUGUST 2019 dc Talk tours again

After almost two decades of being in hiatus, Christian hip-hop and rock group dc Talk has announced they will be reuniting for a US tour, starting in 2020.

Although they have performed just returned from their Jesus together since 2000, this will Freak Cruise – an ocean cruise be their first official tour since tour between Florida and the Supernatural Experience The Bahamas. Tour in 1999. The band will The cruise included be joined by acts including performances from dc Talk, the Newsboys and Christian TobyMac, Newsboys and KMAX. comedian, John Crist. In an interview last year, In an interview with Kevin shared his thoughts on a Minneapolis radio station, dc Talk reunion. 98.5 KTIS, dc Talk member “It’s trying to align all those Michael Tait was asked about the different careers and families future of dc Talk. and people who are taken care of through these independent musicians – putting all that together and coming up with something we all can do is the ... this will be puzzle,” he said. “Beyond that, I know all of us their first are super excited to do more.” official tour Michael, Toby and Kevin formed the group at Liberty since the University in Lynchburg, Virginia

in the late 1980s. They released Photo: David Dobson Photo Supernatural five albums between 1989 and dc Talk is a Christian rap and rock group that rose to fame in the 1990s. Experience 1998, winning four GRAMMY Awards and sixteen Gospel Music Tour in 1999. Association Dove Awards. Each member has since gone on to take part in other musical projects as solo acts or as part Remix reaches new heights of other bands, and have played “I’ve got news for you ... Next together on multiple occasions. year dc Talk will be doing a land The group is notable for having cruise,” Michael said. an uncompromising Christian “We just finished the dc Talk message in their music, with cruise yesterday … but next year, an intention to create a musical dc Talk will be doing a land cruise.” experience that anyone can “We’ll be doing tour dates immerse themselves in, and a goal in the States … in ’20, ’21, and “to encourage listeners to question probably ’22.” themselves and to seek out truth.” “It’s official – yes,” Michael confirmed. Author – John Igglesden Michael, along with fellow dc Talk members Kevin Max and Toby McKeehan (TobyMac), have

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Distribution: Sally Phu Tel: (08) 6313 6300 Photo: for KING & COUNTRY Editorial deadline: 5th of each month Fax: (08) 9470 1713 for KING & COUNTRY’s song God Only Knows has attracted millions of listeners online.

PUBLISHERS GENERAL DISCLAIMER All the articles, comments, advice and other material contained in this publication are by Rapper and music would be amazing to do a remix, “I think we all constantly way of general comment or advice only and are not intended, nor do they purport to be the correct advice on any particular matter of subject referred to. No reader or any other person producer Timbaland we went back to him and they need the reminder that there’s who obtains this publication should act on the basis of any matter, comment or advice were like ‘Man, we love this song a God who knows and loves contained in this publication without first considering and if necessary taking appropriate recently entered the professional advice upon the applicability of any matter, advice or comment herein to their and we want to be a part of that!’,” us … There’s so much love and own particular circumstances. Accordingly, no responsibility is accepted or taken by the realm of Christian bandmembers Joel and Luke meaning in the lyrics, and I’m authors, editors or publishers of this publication for any loss or damage suffered by any party acting in reliance on any matter, comment or advice contained herein. music to remix for Smallbone said in an interview honoured that I get to be a part with RELEVANT magazine. of it,” Sydney said. The Advocate is published on behalf of Baptist Churches Western Australia KING & COUNTRY’s by imageseven. Tel: (08) 6500 7777 Email: [email protected] song God Only Knows. God Only Knows won Song of the Year at the Author – Gilbert Siahaan K-LOVE Fan Awards this year, The band explained that they had and millions have listened to been working with Timbaland on it across digital platforms. the remix for some time. The remix also featured “When God Only Knows was the vocals of Echosmith singer

imageseven bcw J4405 really going and we knew that it Sydney Sierota. intermission 15

AUGUST 2019 dc Talk tours again A minute read with ... Rambling Towards Jerusalem: Leon Wynne Journeys of a Fremantle Boy Noongar Elder Peter Elliott Perth Baptist Church “I have become convinced that history is under no obligation to be palatable.” As I Briefly share your faith journey. read this sentence, conveniently placed in I grew up heavily influenced by my the foreword of Peter Elliott’s latest book, Mum, Dad and Sunday School from a Rambling Towards Jerusalem: Journeys of young age, particularly Mum as she a Fremantle Boy, I had my own revelation, had a love for the Lord from a young stepping into a journey I hardly expected age herself. to experience. From a young age there was always a fearful respect of the Lord, and From Bangkok to Baghdad to Bergen to

when I was in Year 6 I was baptised Photo: Matthew Chapman Bognor Regis to Binghamton, the author on a mission farm. At the age of treks, climbs, cycles, flies, swims and sails. thirteen, I drifted away and did my own thing. I’m grateful that the Lord kept me This book scales global expanses in myriad miraculously safe quite a few times. dimensions, over four incredible years. At the age of 26, I was living in Albany. I was burnt out from overworking myself on the shearing gangs and found myself drinking myself silly each For a mentor to seminarians, Elliott shows that God permits a past! It takes guts to publish weekend and my language had turned foul. I started looking at myself and a book like this one. Yet, it is one that the church desperately needs in a new day. This searching myself as to why. is no ordinary book. The author tells it like it is – how it was! His writing style also does I attended a service with my Mum and family. It was there that my brother, his not disappoint. There is candour of creative response, literary genius, vocabulary to wife and sister and I gave our hearts to the Lord. That night was the first time I enthral, and humour that ‘tastes’ good. It feels good on all levels. As you read it, you have a had a good night’s sleep since I was a teenager. conversation going on within yourself, and that in itself is tantalising, freeing yet risky.

You’re a Noongar Elder. What does it mean to you to be an Elder? Elliott provides a book here that straddles the realities of avoidance and commitment. People look at me as an Elder, but most respect me because I’m a Christian. Today, the author is a scholar and church historian. In this work, you see those origins. They knew my past before I was saved. They saw the change in my life. What is also resplendent for the reader is the search beacon burning brightly within the My parents and grandparents taught me to work to be respectful, to look younger Elliott, seeking truth regarding his Mormon roots. The quest for the searcher’s after myself, my dress manner – the whole lot. My guideposts were my parents, knowledge was bestowed to him. Integrous discoveries gave his soul permission to grandfathers, grandmothers, aunties and uncles. I learnt a lot from my whole discard that faith construct, to family; they were my elders and teachers. I saw how they lived, and I learnt to go beyond it to Jesus Himself. follow from their example. But it was the Lord who changed my life. Today I do a lot of guest speaking with youth, sharing my life journey with Peter Elliott’s book is a sojourn them. I talk about growing up on reserves, living in tents and huts with no power, full of detail, interesting by any and I always confess my Christian beliefs. comparison, crammed with When people are looking for someone as an elder, they are looking for shards of wisdom for fellow someone who has earned that respect. Someone who can show the way. wayfarers. For me, without Aboriginal people learn a lot by watching. spoiling the journey for you, two moments are key. They both What are your hopes for Indigenous people in Australia? involve the word commitment. That they take their place as strong Christians and leaders in the wider community. That all people, not only Indigenous people, have good people Through a genuine pilgrimage, around them, teaching and leading them by their example, and that the church Elliott is brought to a revelation would be a more welcoming place. There are some lonely people out there. on page 329: “It dawned on me that not all commitments What role does the church have to play with Indigenous people? were to be shunned or feared; I’ve sat in churches and been ignored. I would encourage churches to consider commitment was not always their welcome of all people, of all races. We don’t want to be treated differently a loss to be avoided; from any other people. Everyone wants to feel genuinely welcomed, to feel a part occasionally it was of the church, to share meals and life together. a wise investment to be pursued.” The second moment I will leave for you to discover: spiritual clarity at the Garden Tomb.

ho as th ist sinnr If you want a ‘prodigal comes in th il home’ book and you aren’t afraid of adventure, I think this book is for you. Moses, he broke all Book reviewed by Steve Wickham. 10 Commandments at once Steve Wickham is a school chaplain, counsellor, pastor and author of Meditations on Proverbs and co-author of Shining Gift of God: A Memoir on the Life of Nathanael Marcus. letters to the editor send us your letters

The Advocate welcomes your letters to the editor on topics of concern to you and the community. Send your letters of no more than 100 words to [email protected] by the 10th of each month. 16 sport

AUGUST 2019 South Coast excel in gymnastics

Thirty female students competitors from across 14 from South Coast Baptist different schools competing in College’s Gymnastics five divisions of the woman’s artistic gymnastics competition. Academy competed in The Interschool Carnival is the 2019 Gymnastics WA hosted by Gymnastics Western Interschool Carnival at Australia under the guidance the Western Australia of accredited specialist coaches to provide a safe environment. State Gymnastics Centre Activities are especially designed on Friday 28 June. to give students the opportunity to engage in a wide range of “After a long day of top effort, muscle and bone strengthening cheering, fun and team spirit, our activities, while maintaining a College Gymnastics Academy high level of fun for the students. took home many personal bests Gymnastics is one of five and team awards,” South Coast specialty programs run by Baptist College Gymnastics South Coast Baptist College that Coach, Melissa Ellis said. students have access to, with both In the primary school boys and girls from the primary competition, the College teams and secondary school aged gained two first and second place groups participating in the sport. positions, along with a third place “As part of their physical position, while the secondary education at the College, students school gained first place in from Years 1 to 6 participate in Division 2. the Gymnastics Sports Specialty The College was also the Program and for those who overall winner of the West show a talent in the sport, they Australian True Spirit Award are invited to apply to join the for 2019, with the award gymnastics squad with training acknowledging team and staff both before and after school,” conduct across the competition. Melissa shared. “Our College mission “During our gymnastics statement, Rigorous Minds – sessions, we work on developing Compassionate Hearts, means fine and gross motor skills as we are very much about shaping well as participating in strength content and character as we and conditioning exercises, and normalise striving for excellence developing our program to each in life at school and beyond,” gymnast’s skill level.” Melissa said. “These values are Author – Matthew Chapman nurtured though our training programs and appeared evident in the way the athletes conducted themselves as

well as supported each other Photo: Matthew Chapman throughout the competition.” The South Coast Baptist College Gymnastics Academy Division 3 teams and their coaches were all smiles The girls joined 189 after being awarded first and second place at the 2019 Gymnastics WA Interschool Carnival.

NFL star baptised in the Jordan

Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson recently visited Israel and shared the powerful moment he was baptised in the Jordan River with over 1.1 million Instagram followers.

“Went to Jesus’ hometown. Watson was one of several Got baptised in the Jordan leaders and celebrities that were River. Went tubing in the Sea of brought to Israel by America’s Galilee. Took a trip through Mary Voices in Israel. Magdalene’s hometown. Saw the America’s Voices in Israel first church in Capernaum. Life- organises missions to Israel for changing experiences – major prominent headline-makers, blessings!” Watson wrote in an including athletes, leading Instagram post. journalists, prime-time media “I am truly in awe of and Hollywood stars, as well as this wonderful land and the religious and political leaders wonderful people who live here,” in the Latino and African- he said. American communities. “This is a part of the world which gets a lot of attention Author – Matthew Chapman internationally, and this is a chance for me to look beyond the headlines and learn more

about the history and culture of Allison/Wikimedia Keith Photo: this land.” Texans star quarterback, Deshaun Watson (centre) was excited to be baptised in Israel on 24 June.